Leave This Town (Deluxe Edition with Bonus DVD) Review

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(More customer reviews)As much as I like "No Surprise", the sizzling, energetic first single off Daughtry's Leave This Town (the follow-up to their multi-platinum self-titled debut), I'm even more impressed with the quality of the rest of the songs. Creative and original (especially considering this is mainstream pop/rock), this collection eliminates much of the 'cookie-cutter' nature that I felt many of those songs had while retaining hook-laden melodies that made it so successful commercially.
Dubbed by Chris as "a very big rock album", this sophomore effort starts that way with "You Don't Belong", a heavy rocker filled with '80's-inspired guitar riffs and power chords. Rather than using studio musicians as the debut did, Chris' bandmates recorded the musical tracks, and that's one of this album's major highlights and improvements. The almost not-stop touring allowed the band to develop chemistry, and the resulting cohesiveness shows through on the recording, giving this album a more loose, 'live' feel.
"Every Time You Turn Around" keeps the rock edge going...the band members were given latitude to "throw things in on the fly"...an extra solo line here, an extra cymbal crash there, and this song is a good example of that. "Life After You" finally slows things down a bit, but that's not a bad thing on this record. The string of mid-tempo or slower songs that dominate the rest of the album are not contrived or 'manufactured'-sounding...in fact, Chris' weathered voice bleeds passion and sincerity combined with his relatable relationship-themed lyrics. The production allows 'holes' to open up for the vocal(s) to be heard clearly.
Chris (collaborating with some of his rock 'buddies' and producers, including Nickelback's Chad Kroeger on two songs) seems to have honed his songwriting skills further...his almost innate ability to craft melodies and write lyrics from the heart continues to grab you and reel you in, without 'recycling' too much from the first record. Two songs in particular stand out for me... "September", a heartfelt ballad about growing up in the summertime in his small, North Carolina hometown but having to leave things behind to move forward, and "Tennessee Line", a country-flavored tune (fiddles and all) featuring country legend Vince Gill on background vocals. Unique and captivating, these gems are refreshing to hear while staying within the confines of the basic formula for Daughtry's success.
While returning producer Howard Benson throws in a few extra production tricks here and there, he manages to keep the sound fairly natural and the enhancements aren't too overdone.
The bottom line: Great songs, solid performance, and an overall stronger rock attitude. I'm not sure if the changes would be enough to win over those who didn't like Daughtry before, but if you did enjoy Daughtry Part 1, the sequel isn't likely to disappoint.

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Daughtry achieved global success with its self-titled debut, the biggest selling artist release of the past two years.The band's Grammy-nominated, quadruple-platinum debut garnered multiple American Music Awards, World Music Awards, and Billboard Music Awards.Daughtry spent most of the last two years on the road, performing to sold-out arenas, but is now back with the follow-up to the its massive debut. Leave This Town will be available on July 14, 2009, and was produced by Howard Benson.--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.

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Standing on the Edge Review

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(More customer reviews)This is an album that needs to be taken into context, with respect to the state of the band in 1985, the state of the music industry in 1985, and the common expectations of a Cheap Trick fan in 2005 raised on the early Budokan and "Surrender" type work, or for that matter any person today.
Twenty years ago Cheap Trick were in the midst of a nearly-crushing commecial slump that had been haunting them for five years, during which bassist Tom Petersson had left the band and had been replaced by Jon Brant. It was difficult to compete with the fast paced changes in popular music culture, especially when they were beginning to be seen (unfortunately and incorrectly) as a band of the past. Because of this, Standing On The Edge slipped through the cracks, allowing some really fine moments to go almost completely unnoticed, with the better known (and outstanding) track "Tonight It's You" as the only real exception.
Several songs come to mind, such as the bluesy and dancable "How About You," a tight song of perfect length, clocking in at just under three minutes. Although some criticize the use of synthesizers in this album, the synthesizers enhance rather than impede this track. There is also "This Time Around," a fresh and uplifting song which contains some of Rick Nielsen's most gorgeous guitar work. "Cover Girl" is also attractive as a fast-paced song with nice vocals by Robin Zander.
The fact that "Love Comes" never became widely known is a real tragedy. The 30 second sample on this page does not do it justice - it is one of the most inspired and outstandingly sincere songs ever written by the band (and for those who have heard the hired songwriter rumor, that person [M. Radice] is not a credited participator on this track as he is on the others). It is hard for me to deny while listening to it that it possibly could have made the top 10 if it had been promoted more as a single.
A few of the tracks are likely to come accross as flawed on the first listen (the reason I give a 4 instead of 5) - mainly the synthesizers in "This Time Around" and the title track, and the gratuitous effects (vocal and other) in "She's Got Motion," "Little Sister," "Rock All Night," and "Wild Wild Women" employed (often inappropriately) to reinforce the strong sexual themes of these songs (which may be a turn-off for some).
Despite these details, ALL of the tracks have great moments, and they all can be enjoyed, and very much so. The thing to keep in mind is that this is not an album that can be appreciated easily for most people the first time listening to it. One must hear it several times over a long period to let it ripen. Some of the songs (less so the ones mentioned in the fifth paragraph) have a very comforting kind of style and feel, a kind of peace and calm that is even reflected in the attractive cover art, but to enjoy all the tracks an unusual approach is needed based on the unusual circumstances that make this album exactly what it is.

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CD reissue of this 1985 album from the hard rockin' Power Pop quartet featuring one bonus track: the single version of 'Tonight It's You'. Wounded Bird. 2010.--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)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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COLLECTOR'S SPECIAL "Limited Edition Package" X "PLUS" Officially licensed Double Sided 2002 X Concert Tour T-Shirt Review

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(More customer reviews)Man, X is just not getting the respect it deserves. You would think from some of the reviews on this site that this album is nothing short of terrible and that it deviates so fundamentally from Lep's style that it is not even them. While I do agree that X has a lighter sound than their other blockbusters (Pyro, Hysteria, and absolutely Euphoria), to call this album terrible or even average is a joke and an injustice to Lep.
First of all, I have no idea why so many reviews of X refer to this album as a comeback album (and therefore a disappointment somehow). Where have ya'll been? Euphoria was their comeback album, not X. Euphoria, which was another Mutt Lange collaboration, returned to the sound of Pyromania and Hysteria and is easily their best album since Hysteria. So, stop calling X a comeback album, because it aint.
Next, why do so many people feel the need to corner bands into a particular sound and style? Last I checked, musicians were free people who can experiment with their craft anyway they like. For people to expect Lep to just continue producing the same ole sound album after album is ridiculous. True fans of any band will always be open-minded and try to appreciate why the band is creating the sound they are creating. Seems there are more wanna-be Lep fans out there than real ones.
The new style is precisely why X is such a great album in its own right. It demonstrates that the boys can still create great music without Lange's involvement and it also demonstrates that they can expand their style without compromising their globally unique sound (any one of these tunes, even void of Elliot's voice, is identifiable as Lep almost instantly). Those people who state that this CD is mush and has no intensity to it (or that it does not ROCK) are either crazy or on something. Even the ballads have rich, intricate rock guitar work going on and there are at least a handful of songs on the CD that are as rockin' as anything they've turned out since Pyromania. One must only open their ears and mind to the difference in style and the quality of the songs begin to take hold quickly.
All of the songs on the album are good -- there is not one of them that I don't like. Standouts are Unbelievable, So Beautiful (awesome), Four Letter Word (sounds like a mix of Armaggedon It and Photograph), Love Don't Lie, Gravity, Cry, Girl Like You, and Scar.
In conclusion, if you are a REAL Def Leppard fan (and not some fair-weather fan who corners them into a certain sound and blasts them if they don't produce what you want), you MUST get this CD and give it a fair number of listens (10 or so) before you walk away in errant disgust as so many here have apparently done. This is definitely a cornerstone to your DL collection and I personally can't wait to see what they produce in the future. The boys are BACK IN YOUR FACE.

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There Is A Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is A Heaven Lets Keep It A Secret. (Limited Deluxe Edition Box Set with T-Shirt) Review

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(More customer reviews)This album once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. I've seen them live and also listened to their previous albums. Before this album I felt there was something missing, it seemed to be just yelling into the microphone and it took me awhile to like it, it seemed almost like an aquired sound. This album I feel their sound has matured and they have balanced between harmonies and screaming. They also stepped it up in certain songs, adding women vocals for a softer tone and a clashing sound. I feel that this is their best album to date and would also encourage you to go see them live because they put on a great show.

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Bring Me The Horizon became a worldwide phenomenon thanks to their success on MySpace and heavy touring that recently included stealing Warped Tour 2010 with their frenzied main stage performance. The UK based band take the unique sound from their last album Suicide Season and push it further in every single way imaginable.
This special edition box set includes the new CD and a high-quality band t-shirt with an exclusive design only available with this package (size: slim-fit medium).
Track listing:
1. Crucify Me
2. Anthem
3. It Never Ends
4. Fuck
5. Don't Go
6. Home Sweet Hole
7. Alligator Blood
8. Visions
9. Blacklist
10. Memorial
11. Blessed With a Curse
12. Fox and the Wolf

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Pearl Harbour 79 (Mlps) Review

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(More customer reviews)This Japanese mini-lp replica version of Clash's best album is simply a work of art! Very beautifully designed with all the lyrics included and with a sound quality remastered to perfection.
This is by far the best version of this album that is out there; great sound quality, great packaging, great songs! A must have in any CD collector's library.


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Digitally remastered reissue of their Japanese original artwork edition originally released in 1979. Contains the album 'The Clash'(original UK track listing) and a bonus CD single containing 'Gates of the West' and 'Groovy Times' which was included as a bonus 7-inch on the original Japanese LP pressing!Comes housed in a cardbaord sleeve. CBS. 2004.

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Live/ The Deluxe Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)With his "Live At Sunrise" cd out of print, rock legend Dave Mason's latest release "Live At XM Satellite Radio", is more than an adequate replacement. His guitar playing and singing have never been better, and his band is well rehearsed playing a flawless set of classic rock tunes, that proves to be captivating. There is no filler at this show, as every single song rocks the house with vintage Dave Mason early seventies rock n roll. You don't want to miss "Only You Know And I Know". "We Just Disagree", "Look At You, Look At Me", "Dear MR Fantasy", "All Along The Watch Tower", and of course the song that has withstood the test of time like no other "Feeling Alright", which features a blistering guitar duel between Dave and band member John Sambataro. Also included, are some nice bonus tracks of Dave singing the Eagles "Take It To The Limit"[which first appeared live on his 1976 LP ""Certified Live". A duet with the late Jim Capaldi "40,000 Headmen", and a brand new studio track "Deaf Dumb and Blind". Rumor has it that Dave will be releasing a new studio cd in the near future titled "Alone Together Again". If this release is any indication, it proves that Dave Mason is still a talented singer and guitarist who is as good as any of the other so called classic rock guitar legends. After hearing this release, I certainly am looking forward to hearing his long anticipated new studio release in the future.

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As co-founder of the legendary rock band Traffic, Dave Masonhas always been a powerful force in popular music. His tenure as theirguitarist, vocalist & songwriter, along with his friends Stevie Winwood,Jim Capaldi and Chris Wood, netted the quartet several hit singles andalbums including his signature tune Feelin' Alright and internationalsmashes like Hole In My Shoe.While collaborating with his friends like Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones,Eric Clapton, Delaney and Bonnie and George Harrison, Dave Mason continuedto develop his trademark sound, while igniting a solo career that took offwith his first platinum plus debut album Alone Together from 1970.Over the next three decades, Dave Mason continued his legendary status as astaple radio artist, riding the top rung of the many music charts withtunes like We Just Disagree, Let It Flow, All Along the Watchtower, Show MeSome Affection, and Something from the Heart.A few years ago, Dave Mason and his wonderful band entered into the stateof the art XM studios in Washington D.C., and recorded this new album Liveat XM Satellite Radio. This unique session was performed organically infront of an intimate gathering of friends and fans. From start to finish,it is a solid 100% classic Dave Mason concert.Things start off with a nod to his Alone Together album with the prog-rockclassic World In Changes and his Delaney and Bonnie hit Only You Know and IKnow. Mason's vocals and guitar styling are second to none as the crowdroars in approval.We Just Disagree was Dave's most successful venture at Top 40 radio back inthe late seventies. This emotional live reading brings back the memories ofthis era and skillfully shows the interplay between Mason and his goodfriend guitarist John Sambataro (Firefall, McGuinn Clark & Hillman). Thistrack is indeed a defining moment of the show.No Dave Mason concert is complete without the classics All Along TheWatchtower, Traffic's Dear Mr. Fantasy and the surprise groover Feelin'Alright. His fans and new converts will agree, this new live offering willsatisfy the classic rocker in all of us.In addition to this pivotal live recording, Dave has gone into the vaultsand found a very rare live interpretation of the Eagles classic Take It ToThe Limit. Recorded several years ago in the Orange County, Californialocale, this tune takes on a whole new feeling with the Dave Mason magic.As a further gift to his fans, Dave has also included two new studio tracksthat will truly enhance your listening experience. First, there is the veryrare Dave Mason/Jim Capaldi duet of the classic 40,000 Headmen. Recordedshortly before his untimely death, Jim Capaldi truly sings his soul out onthis revisit to the Traffic era. Dave shares on the vocal chores, as wellas an incredible guitar workout throughout.The intriguing closer, Deaf, Dumb And Blind, is one of those tunes that hisfans have been clamoring years for. Dave's vocals are the ticket here, theamazing music he creates is still intact after four decades of recording,and like a fine wine, his career just gets better all the time. This tunewill surely become one of his future classics.

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The All-American Rejects: Live from Oklahoma - The Too Bad for Hell DVD Review

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(More customer reviews)My daughter got this DVD for a Christmas present and it has been heavily played by every member of our family since. If you even remotely like the Rejects you are going to want to check out the DVD.
It has songs from their first CD. Nothing from the CD Move Along will be on this DVD. There are videos on it, there is concert footage, and there is footage of the guys hanging around their hometown of Stillwater, OK.
It is a DVD I let my 8 year old watch so, for the most part, it is an all ages DVD. Minor use of swear words.


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LIVE FROM OKLAHOMA - TOO BAD FOR HELL - DVD Movie

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Black & Blue Review

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(More customer reviews)This often overlooked album in the Stones' oeuvre shines with good to great songs and contains some brilliant reggae. It kicks off with the funky Hot Stuff, followed by the passionate Hand Of Fate which is vintage Stones. Cherry O Baby is a lovely slice of reggae with intriguing organ lines and brilliant vocalizing, while the road epic Memory Motel is a moving story song. Hey Negrita is a wailing bluesy number and Melody soulfully ambles along with lovely guitar, sax, piano and Mick's falsetto voice. Fool To Cry starts as a gentle ballad but gets pretty raucous eventually, while Crazy Mama is the Stones at their rocking best, a powerful conclusion to this great album. It may not be amongst the Rolling Stones' top ten albums, but Black And Blue contains some strong songs with great melodies and playing throughout and no dud tracks. Rediscovering it was a great pleasure.

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Waiting for the Sun Review

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(More customer reviews)The Doors were--and are--one of rock's greatest bands, with a unique sound all of their own. Flamboyant frontman Jim Morrison may have been the face & image of the group, but these guys always worked together like a classy four-headed machine to produce some of rock's greatest music. Picking a favorite Doors album is hard---even the criticized "Soft Parade" album has got some terrific Doors gems on it. But 1968's "Waiting For The Sun" is my personal favorite from The Doors. It's a great Doors classic that sees the band masterfully walking the tightrope between the hard rockers and the softer ballads. For their third album, singer Morrison, keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger & drummer John Densmore decided to go for an earthier, softer sound on some of the tracks, which lends this Doors album an extra kind of beauty. Even Jim Morrison himself sounds more down-to-earth on this album, as his vocals on the first two Doors albums were very echoey, making him sound like he was a disembodied spirit, or recording his vocals inside a cave. Not that there's anything wrong with that---I love "The Doors" & "Strange Days"--- but Jim sounded on those first two albums like he was always floating in the clouds above his three musical co-horts. But on "Waiting For The Sun," Jim's voice is warmer, not so echoey, and on definite equal footing in the mix with his bandmates, which is a plus.Great Doors songs are everywhere on "Waiting For The Sun"---the huge hit "Hello I Love You," the beautiful "Love Street," the bizarre "Not To Touch The Earth" (an extract from an even longer Doors composition, "The Return Of The Lizard King," found on the live "In Concert" CD), the haunting "My Wild Love," and other Doors classics like "The Unknown Soldier," "Spanish Caravan," and the terrific rocker, "Five To One." Say what you want about Jim Morrison's strange lyrics & poetry, but give the man some credit---this guy definitely had a way with words, AND he had a monster voice & presence to match. He was the quintessential rock singer, and he is greatly missed. Ray Manzarek can stroke the keyboards like no one else on Earth (and NO ONE plays the organ as brilliantly as he does). Robby Krieger is a mean guitarist, serving up some incredibly memorable licks, and John Densmore is one of rock's finest drummers, whether slamming his drumkit like a man posessed, or just kicking back with a steady beat. I suppose "Waiting For The Sun" is also my favorite Doors album because it captures the band right smack in the middle of their lifespan, with two albums behind them and three more to go, and with so much life left in them as a great musical force. They rocked all the way to the end, in fact, right up until Morrison took his leave of planet Earth. But "Waiting For The Sun" is, I think, the band's masterpiece. It's an amazing Doors album filled with variety, feeling, and tremendous power. Pick it up! :-)

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Digitally remastered pressing of The Doors third album from 1968, a mellower affair than their previous albums but certainly just as melodic and exciting. The Doors' mixture of Rock, Blues and Jazz combined with vocalist Jim Morrison's poetic lyrics and powerful vocals created a musical Molotov cocktail that could make your senses explode...in a good way! 10 tracks including 'Hello I Love You', 'Spanish Caravan' and 'The Unknown Soldier'. Warner.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Smile Review

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(More customer reviews)This album completely surprised me. I'd heard plenty of good things about L'Arc, and I'd liked the theme they did for the Final Fantasy movie, but I was never in any hurry to learn more about them-- I've been burned too many times by "promising" Korean and Japanese groups that turn out to be more of the same.

But after seeing L'Arc in their first U.S. concert at Otakon in Baltimore, MD, I'm a complete fan. Their concert rocked-- and their album rocks even harder. Hyde, the singer, is equally good live and recorded, and his range (and control thereof) is astounding. "Smile" is absolutely brimming with energy and lyrical beauty (even if you have to go hunt down translations).

The U.S. release of "Smile" has two more tracks than the Japanese version: the FF movie theme "Spirit Dreams Inside" (good move, as that's how most U.S. listeners know them), and a "Hyde-less" (karaoke) version of "Ready, Steady, GO!" (the opening theme to the soon-to-be released in the U.S. anime "Full Metal Alchemist").

Beautiful vocals, energetic melodies, and a complete joy to listen to-- whether you're from the East or Western hemisphere.

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Japanese edition of the first album from L'Arc-en-Ciel in more than three years, features ten tracks including, 'Spirit Dreams Inside', 'Ready Steady Go', & 'Hitomi No Junin'. Copy Controlled. Ki/oon Records. 2004.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Dirty Work Review

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(More customer reviews)Dirty Work was originally released March 25, 1986, it was the first studio album in *17 years* that did not go to #1 in either the UK or the US. This one broke an unparalleled string of 10 #1 albums in a row, dating from the release of Let It Bleed in 1969. Dirty Work only made it to #3 in the UK and #4 in the US, making it the lowest charting for a studio album since the US release of The Rolling Stones, Now! only went to #5 in 1965.
The album includes the single hits Harlem Shuffle and One Hit (To The Body). Most people know the music, so in my reviews I try to give you data on the sessions and interesting facts connected with the songs and the album. Here we go:
Interesting notes include:
.....the working title for the album was 19 Stitches
.....the final cut (Sleep Tonight) is followed by a boogie-woogie piano fadeout memorial to Ian Steward, the real 6th Rolling Stone, who died Dec 12, 1985, just before the album was released and dedicated to him
.....Mick brought essentially nothing to the sessions because he had used all his latest ideas for his first solo album She's The Boss (Keith had threatened to "slit his......throat" if he toured with another band), so Keith took over the sessions and ran the band when Mick left to promote his album. When Mick returned, he used a different studio and worked at times when he would not be in the building with Keith.....If you watch the videos for One Hit and Fight you can actually see the (real) anger between them....they made up when the Stones played a memorial gig for Ian Steward Feb 28, 1986 at the 100 Club in Oxford St, London....They were billed as Rocket 86....(If you don't know rock history, that's the 1st rock and roll record, Ike Turner's Rocket 88, minus Brian and Ian).
.....things were so bad with the band that when a reporter asked Charlie what he thought of the album he said he didn't know it was out and asked if it was any good
The Dirty Work sessions occurred in early 1985 in Paris. Final mixing was done in New York at RPM Studios (Jul 16 - Aug 17 & Sep 10 - Oct 15, 1985) and at Right Track Studios (Nov 15 - Dec 5, 1985).
Jan 23 - Mar 2, 1985 at Pathe Marconi/EMI Studios in Paris
.....One Hit (To The Body)
.....Fight
.....Harlem Shuffle
.....Hold Back
.....Too Rude
.....Winning Ugly
.....Back To Zero
.....Dirty Work
.....Had It With You
.....Sleep Tonight
The Paris Dirty Work sessions produced a number of unreleased tracks, including What Am I Supposed To Do, Baby You're Too Much, Deep Love, Sending Out An Invitation, Some Of Us Are On Our Knees, For Your Precious Love, Strictly Memphis, What Are You Goin' To Do With My Love.
This information comes from "It's Only Rock And Roll: The Ultimate Guide To The Rolling Stones" by Karnbach and Bernson and from my own collection, with some of the notes from Davis' "Old Gods Almost Dead." Both books are available from amazon.com.

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Digitally remastered reissue of the veteran British Rock band's 1986 album.--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.

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Hanson - Tulsa, Tokyo & the Middle of Nowhere (1998) Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a really good, movie/ documentary. It shows concerts, and what they do on their spare time. The are serious and wacky. They go to places like L.A., NY, Australia, Jakarta, France and many more!

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25th Box Set Review

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(More customer reviews)This collection of four CDs originally released on April 20, 1993, is unusual and likely a valuable addition to a Tull fan's collection. Casual fans will likely find this collection to be unnecessary. The four CDs include re-recorded tracks as well as live tracks and a collection of roughly the first decade and a half of Tull.
The first CD is titled "Remixed Classic Songs." The CD covers the era from 1968's "This Was" to 1982's "The Broadsword and the Beast." The songs covered in this CD document much of Jethro Tull's commercial success as well as those songs that many consider to be classic Tull. These songs have been collected elsewhere in their original versions more than once, and thus this CD would only be for someone wanting to collect everything Tull.
The second CD is titled "Carnegie Hall, N.Y Recorded Live New York City 1970." I realize there is no period after the "N.Y," but that is the way my cover appears. It is possible that the lack of a period was corrected on some versions. This CD is what it says, Tull at Carnegie Hall. The music from this CD was collected during a November concert in 1970. Only one song from this CD overlaps the first CD, "Song for Jeffrey." Of course, live versions from Tull are generally different from studio versions, and the single song overlap means that this CD provides different scope from the first CD. Obviously the music on this CD is very early Tull, covering the short period of their existence from their first album release in 1968 to 1970.
The third CD contains re-recordings of a variety of music, principally at Beacon's Bottom in November, 1992, but also music recorded at three other locations in December, 1992. The locations listed are "Ian's," "Woodworms Recording Studio," and "Presshouse Studio." There is much more overlap of the music on this CD with the music from the earlier two CDs. However, the style of the songs from the earlier studio releases is frequently different. I consider this CD the gem of this collection as the general style of the music is closer to rock, and often harder rock, than the original recordings. I believe this one CD is the must have CD for fans of Tull, with the exception of casual fans. The one interesting thing is that this CD remains heavily weighted to their early (pre-1982) music.
The fourth CD is live recordings from 1969 to 1992, at various locations around the world. As with the other CDs, the variations on this CD are valuable to a hardcore Tull fan, particularly as the variations in some cases are very good. As an example, the "Passion Play Extract" from a 1975 Paris concert is a bit different from the studio version, and contains a slightly harder edge to it than the studio recording. Another excellent track is a medley, "Wind-Up/Locomotive Breath/Land of Hope and Glory." While this CD does include some repeats of songs that are included on other CDs in this collection, there are a number of lesser-known works that are well done and enjoyable. One such work is the nearly 11 minute long song "Budapest," which is somewhat devoid of catchy hooks, and yet is interesting to hear and analyze; music for people who like it as an art.
If you have an extensive collection of Tull music, then this four disc, fifty-six track, collection is optional. If you consider yourself a big fan and you have to have their best works, then there is enough difference in this collection to make it valuable. If you are looking for an overview of Tull up to 1992, this collection is excellent. If you are a casual fan, well, you are probably not reading this review if you are a casual fan.


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Lil Band O Gold Review

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(More customer reviews)Looking for the rock in swamp rock? Be prepared to look hard here. Lil' Band O' Gold, billing itself as a Swamp Rock supergroup, turns out to be slightly off base in this release. The CD is heavy with ballads and laments, with sad songs of lost love and mournful dirges taking up slightly more than half the songlist. If swamp blues are what you're looking for though, you'll be satisfied, especially with the wonderful vocal work, both lead and backup, of "First You Cry". C.C. Adcock (who co-produced this recording) provides his usual gritty guitar sound; the mournful pedal-steel work is that of Richard Comeaux. Of the 'up' tunes on this effort, "Shirley" was a surprise, with the innocent lyrics and raw sound of early 60's pop. A Cajun dance-hall standard written by the late, great Dewey Balfa, "Parlez Nous a Boire" ('let us talk of drinking, and not of marriage') gets a kicked-up treatment here, with driving bass line, hard-edged vocals and an intriguing sax opener. "7 Nights 2 Rock", a familiar rockabilly number, beckons you to the dance floor, but could have used another rockin' number as its follow-up, not the undistinguished 'slow dance' of "Dreamgirl". The swamp rock highlights here? "Allons Rock N Roll" and "Cajun Twist" -- both benefit from Steve Riley vocal and accordion work, and great backing by the St. Martin Horns (Dickie Landry, David Greeley, and Pat Breaux). If you're not up and dancing to the "Cajun Twist" cher, your feet must not work.

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Broadway the Hard Way Review

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(More customer reviews)Overall, a great recording from a fantastic FZ band, clearly the most direct and biting of all of the 80s activist Zappa recordings. No one is spared with conservatives, Republicans, evangelists, Michael Jackson, former Surgeon General Koop, Ronald Reagan (and his entire administration), and Jesse Jackson all becoming targets.
With five horns in support, all of them Mothers veterans, all of the songs are great. That big, fat sound really comes through on the jazz standard "Stolen Moments" and its excellent Walt Fowler trumpet solo. This track segues to a guest appearance by Sting, who takes a direct shot at Jimmy Swaggart, and then performs "Murder By Numbers" with the band providing a smooth jazz backing.
Other great tracks are "Any Kind of Pain," with a fantastic FZ solo; "Elvis Has Just Left the Building" for its great lyrics; "The Untouchables" theme for the anti-Reagan administration rant; "Outside Now" for the extended FZ solo, and; the delightful throwback to the "Fillmore East: June 1971" album with "What Kind of Girl?"
Overall, this is a wonderfully representative live Zappa CD. It captures most of the feel, and definitely the wit and anger of Frank's mid-80s interactions with and responses to his sanctimonious detractors. A must for your Zappa collection, and a great addition to any music lover's collection.

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No Description Available.Genre: Popular MusicMedia Format: Compact DiskRating: Release Date: 2-MAY-1995

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