For the Love of Strange Medicine Review

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(More customer reviews)Steve Perry has been behind the Reissues this past year with the Journey CDs and his solo material. Most included bonus tracks, and For The Love Of Strange Medicine is no different. The CD itself sounds incredible. The static that was in the background mildly on the original 1994 release is gone, and the original tracks have been remixed with today's technology. This remixing gives them an absolutely brilliant sound. There are even a few added parts to a couple numbers that sound great as well. Since this CD has never been previously remastered, it gets a new face lift with this release and shines. It truly is a testament, though, to the perfectionism of Steve Perry. He knows the sound he's looking for and finds the way to get it.
The most obvious thing about this release, though, is the bonus tracks; two of which have never before been released. "If You Need Me (Call Me) and "One More Time" were released with the singles that came out with the original Strange Medicine release, along with several other songs that reappeared with the Greatest Hits release. The first unreleased track is "Can't Stop." It is an interesting track, to say the least, and gives you a look at a side of Perry that hasn't been heard often. It's a bluesy track with some scat from The Voice, and some lyrics that are unusual for Perry in that they don't deal with the ordinary subject matter of his songs. His traditional vocal patterns aren't on this track either, making it even more unique. It's a song you almost have to develop a liking for. The second unreleased track is "Friends of Mine," which any Perry fan will like. It's a fun song that is classic Perry at his best, including the long, soaring high notes and the vocal patterns that made the man famous. This track sounds as if it belongs on this CD, and is one of my personal new favorites. These two songs, as the CD's booklet will tell you, were originally recorded for Perry's yet-to-be-released album "Against the Wall" from a 1988 recording session. The final track is a live recording of "Missing You" from his tour of Strange Medicine that has been floating around on download forums and programs for years. It's a rare glimpse of his last outing as a performer.
Finally, one of the last reasons to get this album, even if you already have it, is the accompanying booklet. Not only does it contain the usual (acknowledgments, song list with musicians and writers) but also many photos, some unreleased, from the photo shoot for the album and the tour. It also contains all the tour dates, where and when they were performed. Lastly, to open up the booklet, a note from Steve Perry himself re-introducing the album to you.
I would highly recommend this album reissue. I know there are many who don't like the reissues of the Journey albums, and that I can understand, but this album has never been re-released and sounds great. The bonus tracks and booklet alone should be enough to get the die-hard fans to buy this, but I would also recommend it to anyone who likes Steve Perry in general, the casual fan, or lovers of great music. This is one singer that has had a spectacular career in music, has been on the top, and is now living the life he has earned. The one thing that puzzles me about this release, though, is the timing. Lately, Perry has been reissuing a lot of things from his past. The Journey Music Video DVD, the Houston Concert Collector's Set, and now the reissuing of his entire recorded catalog. He's also made a couple appearances on other musicians' CDs (Jeff Golub and David Pack). What confuses me is the title question: Is Steve Perry wrapping up his career? Tying up the loose ends and saying good-bye to his fans? Or is he staying behind the scenes, waiting...slowly working his way into the public eye again in preparation for one more outing? Only time will tell. If you are a fan of this man, though, I would recommend picking this one up if you are able to. You won't be disappointed.

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Cradlesong (Deluxe Edition CD/DVD) Review

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(More customer reviews)After reuniting with matchbox twenty for 2007's "Exile on Mainstream," Rob Thomas returns to his solo work with his new offering "cradlesong," and the result is a fresh mix of tunes that blends 80's synth-pop with today's current pop sound. The album plays out as such.
1. Her Diamonds- 8/10
The first single off the album, "Diamonds" is a feel-good midtempo number that builds to a rousing chorus. A great summer song that is sure to continue growing at radio.
2. Gasoline- 10/10
Starts off with a digitized drum beat before breaking into an all out 80's power pop ballad that is brought up nicely to today's modern pop standards. The chorus is very simple, yet extremely catchy.
3. Give Me The Meltdown- 9/10
The jangling guitar riffs during the verses of this song remind me very much so of David Bowie's "Let's Dance." This is an uptempo number with solid backing vocals and an extremely catchy chorus. Once again, the 80's synth-pop influence is present in this one. This is sure to be a favorite at Thomas' live shows.
4. Someday- 9/10
A beautifully arranged song with heartfelt lyrics, "Someday" represents what Rob Thomas does best as an artist. An emotional mid-tempo ballad with a memorable piano riff echoing throughout and a solid sing-a-long portion at the end, this is a sure-fire single.
5. Mockingbird- 10/10
Plain and simple, one of the best uptempo songs Rob Thomas has put out to date. The verses build up amazingly well to an undeniably catchy chorus filled with solid backing vocals and the on-point emotional delivery of Thomas' phrasing. The lyrics in this song are extremely easy to relate to and the 80's synth-pop is once again present throughout.
6. Real World 09'- 7/10
For those like me expecting this to be a new interpretation of the hit Thomas had with matchbox twenty in 1997, you will probably be a bit disappointed to hear that it is not. "Real World 09'" is an uptempo synth-pop song that is pleasant enough, but suffers from having so many catchy songs surrounding it.
7. Fire On The Mountain- 9/10
This song starts off with an almost tribal drumbeat that keeps the pace slow through the verses before building up to a soaring chorus. The guitar riffs during the chorus give this song an almost epic feel to it.
8. Hard On You- 7/10
A pleasant midtempo number that maintains a very relaxing sound throughout.
9. Still Ain't Over You- 8/10
This is a completely new type of sound for Rob Thomas. An uptempo number that builds well to a chorus that is chalk full of searing guitar riffs and emotional phrasing.
10. Natural- 8/10
A haunting midtempo tune that's tone can be best described as raw emotion.
11. Snowblind- 8/10
A beautifully written midtempo song with solid backing vocals.
12. Wonderful- 9/10
This song melds together big band instruments, searing guitar riffs, and well crafted melodies seamlessly. The result is one of the most unique and fresh songs on the album.
13. Cradlesong- 9/10
A song that begins with nothing more than an acoustic guitar, Rob Thomas tugs at the heartstrings with this emotional tearjerker. Throw in some beautiful backing vocals and amazing lyrics and you have a truly exceptional song.
14. Getting Late- 7/10
This slow tempo folksy ballad is a nice reflective tune to end the album with.
BONUS TRACKS
15. Years From Now- 8/10
Another solid midtempo number that Thomas fans will definitely want in their collection.
16. Remembered Well- 8/10
Similar to the big band sound of "Wonderful" but slowed down to an almost 50's style sound, this is another solid midtempo tune.
After the success of 2005's "Something to Be..." you have to give Rob Thomas credit for not sticking to the same formula with "cradlesong." Rob takes a creative leap of faith with his latest release, and the result is a fresh batch of songs that are sure to get tons of airplay over the next couple of years. "cradlesong" serves as another entertaining chapter in the story of one of the best songwriters in the business today.


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Deluxe edition features bonus DVD with interviews, plus a behind-the-scenes look at the album photo shoot and video shoot for "Her Diamonds"! Arguably the most accomplished singer/songwriter of his generation, Rob Thomas is one of modern music's most compelling and commercially successful artists. Between Matchbox Twenty, his solo work, and his various collaborations with iconic artists like Santana and Mick Jagger, his tally now stands at more than 80 million albums sold worldwide. The latest magical collection of Thomas-crafted inspiration is his second solo album, Cradlesong. The new album follows his 2005 multiplatinum solo debut, ...Something To Be, which made history as the first album by a male artist from a rock or pop group to debut at No. 1 on The Billboard 200 since the chart was launched 50 years earlier. The album earned a pair of Grammy nominations and spawned a string of hit singles, including the smash 'Lonely No More' which was #1 in 15 countries. cradlesong, with Matt Serletic again in the producer's chair, was forged in a creatively charged atmosphere. The result is a percussive rock record that pulses with passion and energy and portrays a world he views with boundless optimism.
Track listing:
1. Her Diamonds
2. Gasoline
3. Give Me The Meltdown
4. Someday
5. Mockingbird
6. Real World '09
7. Fire On The Mountain
8. Hard On You
9. Still Ain't Over You
10. Natural
11. Snowblind
12. Wonderful
13. Cradlesong
14. Getting Late

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KOHUEPT (Concert) (Live in Leningrad) Review

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(More customer reviews)This album captures the very essence of Billy Joel's concerts.Has some of his best songs including Allentown,Angry Young Man and A Matter of Trust.He does a great job of performing John Lennon and Paul Mc Cartney's Back in the USSR.

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Rick Springfield: Live in Rockford (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)This Rick Springfield project would have been better off released as
a music CD rather then a film Dvd. I found the performance / stage
presence of Rick and The Band to be exceptional; but, was very
dis-appointed with the way it was captured / edited for dvd release.
I understand that the camera crew / film editers were trying to give the
project an MTV fast paced fever-pitch quality by constantly changing
camera views; but, they just didn't seem to have a sense of timing in
allowing the cameras to linquer on Springfield for longer periods of
time to capture the visual intensity and emotion that he put into each
song. Camera angles kept changing every other minute giving the
performance a very ragged unprofessional look. I kept wondering if
this was the first time this camera crew had ever gotten together....had
ever shot anything before this concert.
To be fair.... by the end of the concert ( the encore) - it seemed that the
camera crew got tired - allowed the cameras to stay focus'd entirely on
Springfield. I was totally mesmerized - caught up in those songs - !
The back stage interviews with Springfield were done well ! Fun to watch .
Brought back a lot of memories about the way the music scene use to be
in the seventies and eighties. It was a back stage pass to hang out with
a very likable man who just happens to also be a pop star Icon.
- would I advice someone to buy this Cd ? sure . absolutely ! -
-soooo many great songs on this dvd-
you take what you can get if you're a devoted Springfield fan !


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Over the past 3 decades, Grammy Award winning artist, RickSpringfield has continually brought his vivacity and charisma to centerstage for millions of fans spanning across the globe.Success has indeednot spoiled him yet as he continues full-throttle balancing his acting andmusic career with the support of 17-top 40 hits and 19 million recordssold.Filmed live as part of the HDNet Concert Series at the CoronadoTheatre in Rockford, Illinois, Rick showcases his talent and everlastingenergy in this special release DVD.With a 17 song set list plus bonusmaterial, this DVD pumps out all the greatest hits as well as new classicsto prove that Rick Springfield has the staying power of a legendary popicon of his time. Track Listing: 1. I'll Make You Happy 2. Will I 3. Affair of the Heart 4. I've Done Everything for You 5. Rock of Life 5. Red House 6. Don't Talk to Strangers 7. I Get Excited 8. Baker Street 9. Broken Wings 10. Beautiful You 11. Living In Oz 12. Love Somebody 13. Jesus Saves 14. Kristina 15. Human Touch 16. Jessie's Girl

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Midnight Love Review

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(More customer reviews)Marvin became our voice, our collective conscience, our speaker for the excitement and pain of relationships. Because despite our failure to find the right woman, despite the hurt of not being the perfect man for the woman of our dreams and despite the anguish of losing out to another suitor, Marvin kept us all grounded in the reality of life and the struggle to try again. That, for me, was the basis of Marvin's appeal on a global level. People couldn't put their finger on it back then (drugs had clouded most peoples' mentalities and they couldn't think straight enough to figure it out). In my old age, I know what Marvin was trying to say. And he was quite eloquent at it.
This CD/album epitomizes the Marvin Gaye experience with women. He could satisfy them sexually, but he could also connect on a spiritual level; he could also relate on an intellectual level. Marvin got over because he knew the heart of a Woman was not to compete with her. Once you compete, you lose automatically. Women don't play those games. So Marvin gave what he had -- himself, totally and honestly, in all his songs . . . especially on this CD. It turned out to be his last, but it was also the one where you can just sit back, put it on and leave it for the rest of the night.
On a very selfish note, I have to highlight my favorite song on the CD. I don't know who the sax player is on "Til Tomorrow", but from a strictly aesthetic perspective, it is perfectly framed for this song. There are no ill-advised notes, there is no lapse in the structure, there are no flaws in the runs and riffs. It is clinically perfect, and in deference to players who specialize in running scales, this song really shows them how you have to blend the formal training with the street knowledge to produce the solo of your dreams. This guy, whoever he is, takes care of business. It is absolutely one of the best sax solos I have ever heard -- on a par with Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum or Najee. I get a chill every time I hear it. It literally sets off the vocal inflections and the poignant lyrics as sung by a very sincere Marvin Gaye to his lady to just stay. What Woman could resist?? Marvin made the men jealous of his power over them. You KNOW the Woman stayed!!! She would have stayed without the sax part!!!!!!!
You can't go wrong with most of Marvin's collection of songs. But this one, you have to get and you have to listen to (NOT JUST PUT ON, BUT LISTEN) to really get the most out of. Pure genius. I can't say enough about it. 20 years after the fact, I still miss his surreal presence. There's no telling what he'd be doing if he were still here. And 20 years after the fact, this CD is still a classic.

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Sting - Inside - The Songs of Sacred Love (Jewel Case) (2003) Review

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(More customer reviews)If you're a Sting fan or just a fan of great music, this DVD is for you. I've seen Sting in concert 3 times. This tops anything I've ever heard. Crystal clear picture and sound, insightful interviews (not too long), and priceless music. This DVD has 17 songs on it. And if I had to pick a favorite, I could not. Although, the rendition of Dead Man's Rope almost made me cry (and I'm a grown man) lol. There are also 3 songs I've never heard on this... That Sinking Feeling, All Would Envy, and Like a Beautiful Smile. All good, but the latter being awesome. This is a no brainer... just buy it. Enjoy!

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STING - INSIDE (JEWEL CASE) - DVD Movie

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Out of Order Review

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(More customer reviews)(My rating system: 1-Bad 2-Average 3-Good 4-Very Good 5-Excellent/Classic)
This album sold like crazy for Roderick! It was deemed a "comeback" at the time, but Rod hadn't gone anywhere, and he hadn't stopped selling records either, so go figure....
Out of Order rocked harder than anything we'd heard from Rod in years, and certainly rocked MUCH harder than anything he's done since. It was a return to Rod the Rocker that many of his longtime fans had longed for. Teamed with Andy Taylor of Duran Duran, you wouldn't have expected this, unless you happened to listen to Andy Taylor's solo work. What Out of Order became was a strong mix of solid rock with Rod's balladeering and storytelling.
"Lost in You" was a lead single that immediately received heavy airplay. A little bit of "the Scot" thrown into a nice 80's rock sound. Second up was "The Wild Horse". An excellent tune, which was a bit of a throwback. A strong guitar, very Faces-like tune from Taylor, played at mid-tempo. Suits Rod's voice perfectly.
You had mega-hits "Forever Young", "Crazy About Her", & "My Heart Can't Tell Me No", all with ultra-cool Rod videos, which got constant airplay on your local video channel.
Lesser known rockers from the album are "Dynamite", which is classic Rod- Fast, partying, drinking, & chicks, all to a driving beat. "Lethal Dose of Love" was a nod to Rod's early 80's work. Sounds as if it could have been written for 1983's Camouflage album. Strong beat, fun lyrics. The cd contains a song not found on the original vinyl, "Almost Illegal" which is another fine rocker in the traditional Rod style.
Of course, it wouldn't be Rod without a not to his soul/Motown loving past, and you have a cover of "Try a Little Tenderness", and the lovely, "When I Was Your Man".
Sadly, Rod has never rocked this way since. His Out of Order tour saw his a man possessed on stage, mixing hits from this platter with his old classics. While I have no qualms about Rod's "softening" since then- we all get older- I hold Out of Order as a jewel in his output from the last 20 years. He showed flashes of it on When We Were The New Boys, released in 1998, but it was short lived.
A very good album any Rod fan should be happy with.

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CD > POPULAR MUSIC > ROCK

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Big Picture Review

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(More customer reviews)As I do with most new CDs I purchase, I placed this one in my car CD player and figured I'd give it 2 or 3 times through. But this collection of songs is different. It was like a book that I could not put down, I just kept listening again and again. I have been an Elton John fan for 25 years and have listened to every album/CD. This ranks right up there with the best. His voice has such a rich quality to it, he just seems to get better with age. Listen to this CD one or two times through, and you'll be hooked.

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Australian Exclusive Tour Edition. Features a Limited Edition Slipcase.

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Mccartney Review

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(More customer reviews)When Paul McCartney released his first solo album and the first true solo studio album by a Beatle in 1970, it was almost universally panned. While it certainly doesn't matchup with any of the Beatles albums, it has aged better than alot of the music of the time. Mr. McCartney recorded the album at his farm and its greatest asset is the simple, down-home feel that permeates it. You can almost picture the newly married and new father just tooling around the house and living the country life and whenever the mood struck him, laying down a new track. He plays all the instruments and other than some backing vocals by Linda, sings all the songs. There are several instrumentals on the album and a couple of songs like "Man We Was Lonely" that are basically just a couple of lines sung over and over, but "Maybe I'm Amazed" is a true gem. The song ranks up there with anything he's done in his solo career and a wouldn't be slighted by songs in the Beatles catalog. Other standout tracks include the sweet "Every Night", "Singalong Junk" & "That Would Be Something".

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John Mellencamp Review

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(More customer reviews)For me, one of the pure joys of being a John Mellancamp fan has been watching this incredible singer/songwriter grow and mature as his career moved inexorably forward.
This album is a fresh start for Mr. Mellancamp. It's his first release on Columbia and is simply titled "John Mellancamp." Ironically, it's one of the finest albums he's ever released.
The key to any artist, I think, is growth. Many fans are content to be mired in the cloying repetition of the popular music world, but the best players change and evolve. Mr. Mellancamp has changed from the petulant pop star who told everyone he "needs a lover that won't drive him crazy" and that love "Hurts So Good" to a more introspective, gentle poet who, on this CD, begs the question, "Will you teach your children to tell the truth?"
The sound on this album maintains the rough folk/rock feel he first uncovered in the late `80s on albums like "Lonesome Jubilee" and "Big Daddy," but also incorporates some of the experimental tacts Mr. Mellancamp began taking on "Mr. Happy Go Lucky." All of it works rather nicely. The songs are catchy, foot-tappable and sing-alongable, yet, at the same time challenge the listener with a homogenous blend of styles, rhythms and themes.
The song "Your Life Is Now," could not have been written when Mr. Mellancamp was in his 20s. Its theme is more altruistic and portrays a man doing some serious soul searching; not poontang searching! Musically, it could have easily appeared on "Lonesome Jubilee" or just about any Mellancamp album since then. Nonetheless, the haunting melody and probing lyrics help send a lump directly to the throat.
"Eden Is Burning" is another highlight. Described by Mr. Mellancamp himself on VH-1's "Storytellers" as a "sequel to `Jack & Diane,' the song is a great rave-up about the loss of innocence.
The calypso/reggae beat of "I'm Not Running Anymore," is a perfect example of some of the new sounds Mr. Mellancamp has been embracing of late. The result is an infectious hip-shaker that also serves as the singer's personal declaration of independence from his inner demons.
The song "Break Me Off Some," much maligned here because of its attempts at fusing hip-hop elements to Mr. Mellancamp's heartland folk rockers, is actually one of the highlights of the album. I loathe rap music simply because I find most of its rhythms to be plodding, derivative and frankly, ripped-off. Not to mention, the lyrics are either a) incomprehensible or b) unrelatable. Here, Mr. Mellancamp tightens the groove and adds so much of his own feel to it that the genre seems more natural in this setting than on an Eminem tune.
Not every song on this album works. "Miss Missy" and "Positively Crazy," are unremarkable. However, "It All Comes True," is one of the most haunting songs that Mr. Mellancamp has ever composed; a warning to the today's youth to make the best of their time.
For me, it's difficult to judge Mr. Mellancamp's work by saying one album is better than another. To me, one couldn't exist without the other. (i.e. There would be no "Lonesome Jubilee" without "Scarecrow;" there would be no "John Mellancamp" without "Mr. Happy Go Lucky" and so on.) My favorite JM record changes each time I put one in the player.
For me, every album he releases just adds more texture and depth to what has already become an incredible body of work.
The "professional" reviewer above said that Mr. Mellancamp has had to live in the shadow of Bruce Springsteen most of his career and that Mr. Mellancamp would never produce his own "Ghost of Tom Joad."
To that I say, "Thank God." With all due respect to the Boss, John would never get that self-indulgent. That hoary cliché of a comparison is unfair to both artists and obtusely inaccurate as well.
"John Mellancamp" has slowly become one of my favorite JM recordings. Every time I put it on, the people in the room stop and smile and begin to weave and bop a bit without realizing their doing it. Now, that's a good record.
Of course, Mr. Mellancamp has a new release, "Cutting Heads," due any day now and it's likely that CD will soon become my favorite John Mellancamp album.
But you won't go wrong if you add this one to your collection as well.

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Special edition of Mellencamp's label debut for Columbia with a two track bonus CD featuring live versions of 'Your Life Is Now' & 'Eden Is Burning'. A combined total of 14 tracks. Double slimline jewel case. 1998 release. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Barry Manilow - First and Farewell Review

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(More customer reviews)Dedication at the beginning of the disc:
"To everyone who's been here forever - thanks for the ride. And to
everyone who just arrived - welcome aboard."
There are basically two groups of people out there reading this review:
those of you who are fans of Barry Manilow and are already convinced
that he is "the showman of our generation" (as first coined by Rolling
Stone), and the rest of you who are either undecided about this guy or
convinced there's nothing to like about him.
Well, first and foremost, this one's for you, no matter which group you
find yourself relating to.
If you already enjoy Barry's music, this 2-disc DVD is one you can't
miss. To have the best of both Barry worlds in the palm of your hand
is priceless. The first disc is the Barry many of us old-time fans
recall with great fondness ... the young, geeky, awkward musician who
really didn't know the first thing about using his body as an
instrument. He wasn't smooth, slick, or handsome ... and he seemed too
terrified to even get up from the piano. Yet somehow his talent
manages to shine through, and you can imagine being in that first
audience and thinking, "Yep - this guy's got the spark. He's going all
the way!" The second disc is Manilow, 30 years later: the slick,
polished professional who dazzles with a show that both touches the
heart one minute and makes you want to jump up dancing out of your seat
the next. You'll watch the first disc and think, "Wow, I really miss
that geeky, innocent guy," but then you watch the second disc and
realize you can't part with him either. One of my favorite parts of
both discs is Barry's intro to each. Talking to the camera he's warm,
chatty and friendly. It's as if he's sitting in your living room and
having a casual conversation with you about who he was in the beginning
and who he is now. It's a candid side to Barry fans seldom get to see.
But for those of you who are lukewarm about Barry and have wondered
what all the fuss is about - and are yet open-minded enough to ask
yourselves, "Did I maybe miss something?", then this is your perfect
introduction to Manilow 101. By comparing and contrasting the Manilow
of yesterday to the Manilow of today, you can get a better idea of why
so many people have responded so positively to his music over the
years. It's the passion. It was there in the beginning and it's still
with him, on stage, every night as he continues to perform today at the
Las Vegas Hilton.
Now, a warning about the first disc - it can be difficult to watch.
You have to remember that this was recorded back when dinosaurs roamed
the earth and video technology wasn't that great. You feel like you
were dropped into a fuzzy, black and white world holding a ticket that
shoves you to the back of the room. It's a low-tech world that makes
you wonder if you're in somebody's garage and whether Barry's putting
on a show with The Little Rascals. If your purpose in watching this
disc is to ooh and aah over Barry's physique, forget it - you'll barely
see his face. He's too far away. But sit through it anyway, because
the music and the banter is priceless.
Some of the disc one highlights:
-- "It's A Miracle" with some alternate lyrics
-- Barry singing "As The Saints Go Marching In" backwards. (Okay, he
doesn't sing the whole thing, but what you hear is pretty hilarious -
but not quite as hilarious as hearing "The Shadow Of Your Smile" being
sung like "Hello Dolly")
-- Barry beautifully belting out a wonderful, little-known album cut
called "Oh My Lady"
-- The first VSM ("very strange medley") of commercial jingles,
including the long version of the ever so infamous Dr. Pepper
commercial (of which I remembered NONE of the words, but it was
entertaining just the same)
-- A really sweet rendition of "Make Our Garden Grow" (from "Candide"),
a song which didn't go over well with the Spanky and Alfalfa crowd, but
would wow audiences some years later when Barry performed it on
national television.
Disc two fast-forwards us to one of the best concerts I'd ever seen.
The "One Night Live/One Last Time" arena tour was bittersweet, true,
because it was billed as Barry's last real tour. I was lucky enough to
attend that show, and the disc really captures the excitement that
Barry generated throughout his entire performance. What a way to go
out!
Highlights include:
-- One of the best versions of "Mandy" (not one of my favorite hits)
you'll ever hear
-- The most kick-ass version of "Brooklyn Blues" (another song that
wasn't one of my favorites) you'll ever hear, featuring a saxaphone
duet with Dave Koz and George Shelby that will blow your jazz-lovin'
mind
-- A rendition of Joni Mitchell's "River" that will send you running
for the kleenex if you're the least bit emotional around the holidays
-- "Dancin'Fool", a tune that makes it VERY hard to sit quietly in your
seat, and
-- A revamped dance version of "Copacabana" that is the best live
version you'll ever see of this song, and one which you can still hear
Barry perform in Vegas. It's always the showstopper of the night!
So, if you have been with Barry forever, then definitely do not miss
this one ... but if you're just coming on board, check this out and see
why Barry Manilow sets the bar for live entertainement in show business
today. You might surprise yourself and find out that yep, you're right
- you've definitely been missing something.

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After 30 years of live performances from Boston to Blenheimand everywhere in between, Barry ManilowÂ-legendary songwriter, producerand entertainerÂ-said goodbye to life on the road at The Pond in Anaheim,California to conclude his Â"One Night Live! One Last Time!Â" FarewellTour. But to truly appreciate the significance of a farewell tour, as Barrypoints out in two personal and reflective interviews on this DVD, one mustfirst understand where it all began. That is why he authorized the releaseof the black-and white videotape recording from his first rehearsal atCarrollÂ’s Studio in New York CityÂ-a reference tape he used to determinewhat songs worked and what songs didnÂ’t before he went out on his veryfirst tour ever. At the end of that performance on a cold New York night, ayoung naive Barry Manilow, having no idea what lay ahead for him, asked hisaudience to Â"wish me luckÂ". And so here is the beginning and the end ofroad shows from 1974 to 2004 that touched the hearts and souls of millionsaround the world. Barry Manilow is the #1 Adult Contemporary Artist of alltime. He has sold 75 million albums, has performed over 3000 concerts, andhas earned 29 platinum records. Barry is a Grammy®, Emmy®, and TonyAward® winner, as well as an Academy Award® nominee.

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Fresh Horses Review

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(More customer reviews)I ordered this CD and it does not have "To Make You Feel My Love' on it.

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One artist...one decade...one hundred million albums sold! Garth Brooks remains the biggest Country artist of all-time.He harnessed the Country and Pop influences of has past and created a new kind of Country that appealed to different generations of fans and crossed over into the Pop market like no other artist before him.Garth Brooks changed the rules based on his talent alone. He became a worldwide superstar while remaining true to his humble roots, which added to his appeal. This is his 1995 album and features 'Cowboys And Angels', 'The Fever' and 'She's Every Woman'. Pearl.--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.

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For the Love of Strange Medicine Review

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(More customer reviews)The 1980's were undoubtedly characterized, in part, by the music of Journey. Rock anthems and power ballads were the mainstay of the band that turned out such memorable hits at "Separate Ways", "Don't Stop Believing", and (my favorite) "Faithfully". At the forefront of Journey's success was the man with the steely voice, Steve Perry. Few voices in music history are as perfectly crafted for the singer's chosen genre than Perry's. He could achieving the soaring range of the anthems, while also incorporating softer, more accomplished, tones into the power ballads. Internal power struggles caused Journey to break up in 1986 and each member went on their separate ways (no pun intended). Steve Perry, who had already achieved solo success with 1983's "Street Talk", took to the studio a few years later to produce his second album, "For the Love of Strange Medicine" (released in 1994).
"...Strange Medicine" has proven to be an absolute goldmine for Journey faithful captivated by Perry's voice. It provides one of those rare occassions where a listener can put the CD in and listen to it from beginning to end and not find a single track they don't like. Tributes to young love, inner strength, long journeys, and forgiveness all permeate this album. "...Strange Medicine" starts off in style with its lone radio release, "You Better Wait", a soaring cautionary anthem to a young girl starting out in life. Perry's magnificent voice, along with some spectacular guitar play, power this song to a level beyond what even Journey produced. "Young Hearts Forever" follows it with another wondrous song encouraging the embrace of young love. It simply must be experienced to understand how good this song is.
While every track is excellent, there is one more truly impressive song on this album. It is the final track, "Anyway". It is a strong, emotional song that essentially serves as Perry's lyrical apology and peace offering to his fellow bandmates for the troubles of a decade earlier. The strength of this ballad is on par with "Faithfully" and "Open Arms" from the Journey days, and is speculated to have played a part in the 1996 reunion of the band.
Sadly, Perry's medical condition due to a climbing injury made that reunion short-lived. The band has moved on with a new Perry sound alike singer and Perry, himself, has continued to do some studio work from time to time (though, no new studio album is on the horizon). Yet, with music like "For the Love of Strange Medicine" still floating around, Journey and Perry fans alike can still plug in and be reminded of the greatness of what once was.

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2006 Japanese Digitally Remastered Limited Edition Reissue of the Album Classic in a Deluxe, Miniaturized LP Sleeve Replica of the Original Vinyl Album Artwork.--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.

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John Mellencamp: Lonesome Jubilee Review

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(More customer reviews)Mellencamp took his romantic fascination with the heartland to the max with "The Lonesome Jubilee". Lyrically, he doesn't really break any new ground here: The album is dominated by social commentary and vivid narritives of the life of the regular American. However, the quality of the songs is remarkable and John brings in a variety of instruments that you rarely hear on a "rock n roll" record. From the opening accordion and dobro guitar riffs of *Paper In Fire*, "Jubilee" is mostly upbeat. Songs like *Down And Out*, *The Real Life*, *Hard Times For An Honest Man* roll along passionatly. Mellencamp brings in a strident working class anthem in *We Are The People* and also a few deep, melancholy stories with *Empty Hands* and *Hotdogs and Hamburgers*. You can almost feel the despair of the characters in the songs when John uses words like "Oh lord, what did I do to deserve these empty hands" or "My daddy's always drunk, my mom's a babysitter, and I don't like the Russians cause I hear they hate me". On the other hand, the carefree *Rooty Toot Toot* breathes a little Mellencampesque comedy into the record. Finally, there's two songs on here that are worth the admission price alone. Listen for the beautifull fiddle work on the nostalgic *Cherry Bomb*. With its catchy accordion hook, building melody, and crafty lyrics, *Check It Out* is probably Mellencamp's finest song! All in all, "The Lonesome Jubilee" is a fantastic recording, where John Mellencamp, Middle American ambassador that he is, is at the top of his game. The eclectic instrumentation, the themes, and the emotions in these songs will blow you away!
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Earthling Review

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(More customer reviews)I am always constantly impressed with how David Bowie easily slips out of one form of music and into another. In a day and age when techo beats are popular but lame, and I spend hours cowering in my room stuck musically in the 70's, this album pops out and suddenly I am back in the 90's again. Bowie flirts heavily with a Trent Reznor-like sound, but with his amazing voice, this experimental album works very well. The best track is "I'm Afraid of Americans." It just starts off and builds to this LOUD chorus. This is a good album to get if you are like me, not really into the 90's sound, but still are able to appreciate genius when you hear it (although I will always love the 70's Bowie glam more).

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Charmed Life Review

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(More customer reviews)"Charmed Life" was recorded during a bad motorcycle accident that Billy had, hence as I recall, the title.
By 1990, Billy Idol had matured into a rock artist and this album is miles away from the youth appeal of "Rebel Yell." It shows the former Gen-X punk wanting to grow his music and it works.
From a kickass version of "The Right Way" and "Prodigal Blues" (the originals) to "LA Woman" to "Endless Sleep" (the covers) - this album is well produced, well-written and will grow on you. There really isn't a bad track on this.
Steve Stevens had left the fold to pursue a solo career at this stage and Mark Younger Smith shows his guitar chops. The change of style is refreshing.
As a songwriter, Billy peaked with this one. I didn't much get into "Heroin" - his next album. This and "Rebel Yell" remain indispensable parts of Billy's collection so get it if you can.

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Reissue of this 1990 album by former Generation X vocalist and bonafide Rock Star!Features the hits 'Cradle Of Love' and 'L.A. Woman'. 11 tracks total. EMI. 2006.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Time Love & Tenderness Review

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(More customer reviews)There are many things I could say about this album, I'll try to do it in the best English I know: I think it demonstrates that commercial music can be also good. The production is very good, everytime you listen to the songs you can hear more and more instruments playing, sometimes it feels like a kind of "modern orchestra" is playing the music (I am sure you'll feel like this when you listen to the title song called "Time,love and tenderness", it's one of Michael's most famous song and one of my favourites. I found influences of rock, pop and gospel in this song, in fact Michael has done a lot of black music and his songs that have gospel choirs are part of his label, and to me the best ones!). BY THE WAY, if you like this album you will love Celine Dion's album called also "Celine Dion", it was released a year after and Walter Afanasieff and Diane Warren also collaborated on it, these great artists have also good collaborators!

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