Good Spirit Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First heard of Xavier only a few months ago when friends bought me a ticket to see him in concert in Brisbane, Australia. What a truly awesome performance, one man making such fine and energetic music. The combination of great beats, the unearthly sound of the Didjeridoo and his brilliant slide guitar work make Xavier, in my opinion, the best artist to have appeared in this the 21st century. His studio albums are great but this one really gives an indication of how much of an accomplished artist this man is. If you haven't seen him live yet, get this CD and if he is ever performing live in your area, do whatever you can to get tickets and see him, you won't be disapointed.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Good Spirit

Xavier Rudd brings you his first live album 'Good Spirit'. The album was recorded from various gigs around Australia - (The Enmore Theatre, Sydney), (The Palais, Melbourne), (Fly by Night, Fremantle). Universal. 2005.

Click here for more information about Good Spirit

Simon & Garfunkel - Old Friends, Live on Stage Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I own this DVD as well as the Concert in the Park DVD; I was also at both concerts -- each had a different feel, and each DVD has a different feel. Several reviewers have compared the two DVDs and, like most of them, I prefer the "Old Friends" DVD, which isn't to say that the Central Park concert is not worth owning.
The sound quality of Old Friends is superior, but that may be a function of the venue as well as of the updated recording technology -- at an outdoor concert, some of the sound is lost to the open air, while at a place like Madison Square Garden the sound is contained by the venue, and thus feels richer.
Though Simon & Garfunkel were backed up by a band in both concerts, the Central Park concert is more folky, with a peaceful outdoor concert feel (which is exactly what it was). The Old Friends concert, on the other hand, often seems to emphasize the rock aspect of "Folk Rock," which is a nice change from the Simon & Garfunkel sound I'm used to hearing. Its venue, better sound quality, and lighting effects, also give it more drama. On a flatscreen TV with excellent sound, the Old Friends concert provides the richer experience. My choice of which to watch, however, depends on my mood: I was at the Central Park concert the day before my first day of highschool, so if I'm feeling nostalgic I'll watch the Park concert; if I want more of an energetic, arena feel, I'll watch Old Friends.
As far as I remember, the only song they did at the Garden that was cut from the DVD was the Everly Brothers' "Let it Be Me." This isn't a big deal for me, though I'm sure some Everly Brothers fans aren't happy.
Other than this, there's little I can add to what's already been said about this DVD.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Simon & Garfunkel - Old Friends, Live on Stage

"Right from the opening montage that juxtaposed scenes from the duo's careers and other world events, the message was clear-Simon & Garfunkel were sharing this show with their generation." (David Wild, Liner Notes) For an entire generation, the concert event of the new millennium was the 2003 Old Friends tour from Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. Their first national concert tour in two decades, performing songs that rank among the most memorable of the '60s, was a sold-out sensation in more ethan 30 cities across the country. Now many of those unforgettable performances are heard on the DVD Old Friends Live On Stage, as well as a 2-CD set and a Deluxe Edition with both the DVD and the CD's. The songs of Simon & Garfunkel have never sounded better.

Click here for more information about Simon & Garfunkel - Old Friends, Live on Stage

Paul Simon - Graceland (The African Concert) (1986) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is one of the most amazing concerts ever! Not only is the music amazing, but the players are royalty. It is a powerful example of the potential music has to speak the truth and move the soul. Somebody complained about the quality of the sound or whatever -- but I don't understand how that can even be an issue you'd want discuss in the review of such a powerful piece of musical history.
This concert is a celebration of freedom, and the music is a celebration of truth. It is a joy to watch, and even if you're not a Paul Simon fan, you probably still won't be able to keep yourself from being moved -- either figuratively or literally: my friend (who's not a big Paul fan) said she couldn't stop dancing. Miriam Makeba -- who had been in exile from her homeland for 27 years because of her political beliefs -- has an inspired presence, as does Hugh Masakela -- also a political exile. Ladysmith Black Mambazo is both a force to be reckoned with and a perfect example of gentle humility. All the "back-up" players are astounding, and Paul is as full of love and humility and sincerity as he could possibly be.
I have watched this concert a dozen times, and look forward to the next dozen. It is a rare gem that I enjoy sharing with the people in my life I love the most.
To sum it up? GET THIS CONCERT.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Paul Simon - Graceland (The African Concert) (1986)

Studio: Wea-des Moines VideoRelease Date: 03/23/1999Run time: 90 minutesRating: Nr

Click here for more information about Paul Simon - Graceland (The African Concert) (1986)

Carnival II: Memoirs of an Immigrant Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Now Lauryn Hill's gone bag-lady bonkers, the Haitian Fugees' boss rifled through his little black book for more laydeez to play with.
Norah Jones, Shakira and Mary J Blige are a few that answered his call.
Wyclef Jean is a rare artistic breed - the more big names he collaborates with, the better he gets.
On this laid-back fifth album he rounds up another impressive cast list, mixing rock, rap, reggae, Bollywood beats, dancehall and even samba.
His latest star-studded collection sees him returning to one of his favourite themes: immigration and identity.
The heroes and heroines of his narratives are illegal immigrants, strippers, deadbeat dads and single mothers - but, with the help of his guests, his portrayals of these outcasts are remarkably sympathetic.
The reggae-lite production is seductively summery (especially on the gorgeous "Slow Down"), if slightly aimless at times; despite the influence of Wyclef's conscience, his eye is too firmly set on a carnival atmosphere to ever sound preachy.
The new single "Sweetest Girl" has "hit" written all over it, a reggae-tinged track with a vocal contribution from Akon, Lil Wayne and Niia that fits in perfectly with Wyclef 's sound.
Paul Simon provides a classic chorus on "Fast Car", a folky warning against youthful foolishness.
Sizzla's slot on "Welcome to the East", "What About the Baby" featuring Mary j Blige and the silky "Any Other Day" with Norah Jones also stand out on this impressive display
Easy on the ears, this album is a shot of summer for the chilled days ahead.
Enjoy.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Carnival II: Memoirs of an Immigrant

Wyclef Jean Carnival II (Memoirs of an Immigrant) Includes the hit Sweetest Girl (Dollar Bill) featuring Akon & Lil Wayne, plus songs with Chamillionaire, Nora Jones, Paul Simon, Serj (of System of A Down), Shakira, TI, & more.

Click here for more information about Carnival II: Memoirs of an Immigrant

White Moth Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)An amazing performer with deep love for the Earth.
His mix of reggae and folk and aborginal music is beautiful
and haunting .
I loved this cd so much I bought the rest of his music.
His vocal qualities remind me of a young Paul Simon.
Would vote him for World President because of his love of Mother Earth!

Click Here to see more reviews about: White Moth

Australia's singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist is poised toconquer the US with this, his third album. Rudd has found a sounding boardfor his ideas, focusing the ecstatic improvisations of his live set intobeautiful narratives of the spiritual journeys we take in our everydaylives. With songwriting and production that now match the adrenalin of hislive performances, and dates this summer with the Dave Matthews Band,Xavier will reach the audience his intensely spiritual music deserves. Bothof his previous releases, "Solace" and "Food In The Belly", have beencertified platinum in Australia, and his 2006 DVD, "Good Spirit" was alsorecently certified gold in Australia.

Click here for more information about White Moth

Rhythm of the Saints Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Paul Simon followed up the classic Graceland, his fusion of African and Western pop music with this stunning album of great songs with a South American and more particularly Brazilian flavour. This reissue includes four previously unreleased tracks.
The Obvious Child is my favorite, a powerful melodic song with great drums and guitars and a wistful, nostalgic feel. Another favorite is The Coast, a story about a family of musicians taking shelter in a church; this song really impresses with its flowing melody, polyrhythmic drum patterns and moving lyrics.
Proof is another charming pop song, particularly noted for its evocative backing vocals and gentle, lilting rhythm whilst Further To Fly and She Moves On are more subdued, melancholy numbers with bubbling and insistent rhythmic patterns.
The mood lifts with the uptempo and buoyant Born At The Right Time, once again a lyrical and musical masterpiece and filled with catchy hooks. The guitar and atmospheric backing voices of Spirit Voices are beyond compare whilst the title track is a meandering piece with innovative instrumental flourishes.
What makes these songs particularly moving is that Simon tells the stories of ordinary people and that his perceptive, poetic lyrics are carried so well on the exotic instrumentation. Of course, the beautiful tunes have a lot to do with that. Rhythm Of The Saints may not be as immediately appealing as Graceland and may not offer quite as many classics, but it remains a major achievement, a brilliant marriage of Brazilian and Western popular musical styles.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Rhythm of the Saints

Paul Simon, The Rhythm of the Saints--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Click here for more information about Rhythm of the Saints

Contra Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)After releasing their debut album, Vampire Weekend seemed to face a dilemma. They could either make another album with more of the same or completely change their sound. Either way, they were bound to receive scorn from critics. But somehow, they managed to evolve while still maintaining their signature sound. Anyway, let's get down to business...
Track by track:
"Horchata" - A great opener that sets the tone for yet another summery, poppy indie release from Vampire Weekend. The use of marimba and kalimba is new yet sounds very fitting. (9/10)
"White Sky" - This song has been played by the band for at least a year before they recorded it. I'm glad to see it was finally recorded. (7/10)
"Holiday" - A straightforward pop song with obvious ska influence. Instantly catchy. (8/10)
"California English" - Interesting use of auto-tune. I never thought someone would use auto-tune in a way that wasn't blatant and annoying. (8/10)
"Taxi Cab" - This is new territory for the band. Ezra sings in a low voice, buried under strings and programmed piano pieces. Very calming track with some of their best lyrics yet. (9/10)
"Run" - Things pick back up with this track which was instantly one of my favorites. The arrangements are very engaging on this one. The choruses are instrumental but quite effective. (9/10)
"Cousins" - When I first heard this song I didn't really care for it because I had only heard it live. Once I heard the recording, I was converted. It seems to capture the spirit of A-Punk but I feel like it lacks a hook. The ending makes up for it though. (8/10)
"Giving Up The Gun" - I was so excited to hear that this song would be on Contra. Ezra's old hip-hop band, L'homme Run, recorded an old version of this song years ago called "Giving Up Da Gun," and I used to listen to it nonstop. Very glad to see that they went back to the well. (10/10)
"Diplomat's Son" - This track is the band's longest song yet and features some vocals done by Rostam during the bridge. I really dig the white-guy-reggae vibe. I found it especially funny when Ezra mentions that he "smoked a joint." (10/10)
"I Think Ur A Contra" - Hands down my favorite song on the album. The band truly ended the album with their masterpiece. Not only are the lyrics in this song their most sincere, but the arrangement they used is among their strongest. The subtle atmosphere paired with their first ever use of acoustic guitar makes the song sound genuinely heartfelt and sets it apart from their repertoire. (10/10)
Overall, I think this album is on par with their debut and I will be spinning it nonstop for months to come.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Contra

Like the first album, Contra was produced by keyboardist Rostam Batmanglij and is the realization of a whole and unique musical vision that sees the band stretching out and adding new textures, instrumentation, and rhythms into their sound.Primarily recorded in New York with a springtime sojourn to Mexico, Contra feels altogether fresh, joyous, and like nothing else but is immediately recognizable as the sound of Vampire Weekend.

Click here for more information about Contra

Simon and Garfunkel - The Concert in Central Park (1982) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I was happy to see Simon and Garfunkel in concert on their recent "Old Friends" tour, and was more than pleased by the performance of two men who, by all rights, should've been retired and not in the best of vocal form. The afterglow of the Philadelphia show led me to acquire this DVD from the 1981 Central Park reunion show. Since most of the songs from the current tour are reflected by the Central Park set list, it was worth it for me.
This DVD is actually better than I originally remember from watching it on TV. Maybe I was just too wrapped up in my new wave years (I was a junior in college at the time the album was released), but both men were in strong form vocally. It also meant that, as a greatest hits sort of show, all the bases are essentially covered. Even the Paul Simon solo material comes across as well matched (in particular, "American Tune" which rings truer in the post 9/11 world as it did back then). The instrumentation is a bit dated, Richard Tee's keyboards especially, but that's more the fault of the times than of performance.
And the performances here are superb. Oddly, the one major musical flub from the disc is "The Late Great Johnny Ace." It was Simon's tribute to John Lennon and is when a fan charges the stage, distracting Simon from the microphone. Art Garfunkel is relegated to only one solo hit here, and naturally it's "A Heart In New York." Just as "counting the cars on the New Jersey Turnpike" gets a huge outburst of applause (it did here in Philly, too), "Heart" brings the crowd to express itself with exuberence.
On the other hand, when Art begins to sing "Bridge Over Troubled Water," it's hard not to notice that he can still sound like the folk singing choirboy of the sixties, and even more so for "The Sound of Silence." Despite all the infighting, back biting and legendary arguments that Simon and Garfunkel have shared over their career, there is no denying that - as a duo - they created magic. After 20 years, I'm glad "The Concert In Central Park" is in my DVD library.
There are a few minuses: A serious lack of extra features. Jamming two songs into one chapter, and not just once but six times. Crappy liner notes/graphics. The fact that you can still sense the personal tension between Art and Paul. (They were supposed to produce an album entitled "Think Too Much" together after the tour, the resulting album was Paul's "Hearts and Bones.")
PS: I eagerly await the inevitable "Old Friends" concert CD and DVD, and would also recommend Paul Simon's "Concert In The Park" from 1991.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Simon and Garfunkel - The Concert in Central Park (1982)

SIMON & GARFUNKEL:CONCERT IN CENTRAL - DVD Movie

Click here for more information about Simon and Garfunkel - The Concert in Central Park (1982)