title: Nothing is stronger than Sade!!

text:
There’s nothing like getting a double-dose of Sade, two CDs of magic, songs plucked from her six studio releases so far (three from “Diamond Life”, four from “Promise”, three from “Stronger Than Pride”, six from  “Lovers Deluxe” – nearly the whole album, which only had nine songs anyway – four from “Lovers Rock”, and three from her latest, “Soldier Of Love), which it follows along in chronological order, along with a three new tunes - the standout among these, or course, is “Still In Love With You”, the Thin Lizzy masterpiece – and two remixes, one with a completely unnecessary Jay-Z rap, and another one remixed by the Neptunes.

It’s a smooth flow of jazzy soul from “Your Love Is King” to “Smooth Operator” to “Hang On To Your Love” to “The Sweetest Taboo”, to the bluesy darkness, sweet horns, and stirring piano of “Is It A Crime”, and the good feelings and deep thrum of “Never As Good As The First Time”. “Jezebel” is smoky and cool, but it lightens up with “Love Is Stronger Than Pride”, the airy opener to the Stronger Than Pride release (my first of Sade’s, incidentally). “Paradise” funks the air up a bit, and “Nothing Can Come Between Us” adds a male voice into the mix. Next up is Sade’s real masterpiece, “No Ordinary Love”, a song so awesome that the Deftones covered it. That bass line is hot… and so is everything else about this song!! “Kiss Of Life” and “Feel No Pain” are more chilled out and breeze along, while “Bullet Proof Soul” rounds out the first disc with more silky, somber moods and lots of sax!

“Cherish The Day”, opening disc two, is moody and sweet, while “Pearls” is a gloomy tune about a woman in Somalia living a hard life – voice, keyboard, violin. Sweet. “By Your Side” is somber and poppy. “Immigrant” hums and thrums with some programmed beat and that gorgeous voice, simple, with cool bass thrums. “Flow” is a little thing with a programmed beat, also very somber, mildly clubby but also kind of forgettable. “King Of Sorrow” has some nice guitar sounds, also very sad-sounding. But Sade’s howling voice is in top form here – wow! “The Sweetest Gift” is a very short song, you hardly notice it because it’s so mellow, and then it’s over, a guitar companion to “King Of Sorrow”, just voice and guitar. Wow! “Soldier Of Love” is the title track of Sade’s latest album, and it’s pretty nutty – by Sade standards, with a large pulsing beat, and near-talking throughout. Over-production? Sorta. But it’s still a cool, moody song. “The Moon And The Sky” is a spooky song on a repeating riff, with some odd electronics. “Babyfather” is a pretty conventional Sade song, and could easily have appeared on an earlier album, with its cheerful chorus and good mood. “Still In Love With You” is a great version of the Thin Lizzy song, and only the second cover that Sade has ever done (after Timmy Thomas’ “Why Can’t We Live Together”). A bit of electronic beat is kind of icky, but the guitar is great, and the production builds up. Sade’s voice is fantastic here! “Love Is Found” is full of quivering strings, then building up to a dramatic, metallic climax a la “Soldier Of Love”, but quite a bit more successful, I’d say. Weird hip hop elements and sharp guitars at play here. Wow!! “I Would Never Have Guessed” is much simpler fare, a beautiful (and short) piano ballad, full of wonderful breathing and sighs… wow… this is Sade!! “The Moon And The Sky [Remix]” does not build on the original, just makes it noisier and fairly obnoxious (not normally a word used to describe Sade’s music, surely, but there’s always room for something new…). The unnecessary rap bit by that guy is also quite awful! “By Your Side [Neptunes Remix]” is sweet and pretty and nice… and only a wee bit obnoxious. Not sure what the Neptunes add, although I'm sure they’re nice guys…

The third disc is a collection of Sade videos, lasting one hour and ten minutes. “Hang On To Your Love” is set in a casino with silly dancers, the band plays fake instruments, there are frozen gamblers, ballet dancing with baby, Sade is gorgeous; ”The Sweetest Taboo” has Sade jamming with her band in a loft while it rains outside, mixed with pictures of her Spanish husband of the time, cute hats on the boys, spaghetti western setting, Sade sashays stiffly around the hall, “Temor”; “Is It A Crime” seemingly continues where “the Sweetest Taboo” left off, the band jams around a bit, adds London street scenes,  there’s a regretful man and a lovers spat; “Never As Good As The First Time” has Sade riding horses on the beach, black and white images, toreador kids, cowboys; “Love Is Stronger Than Pride” shows our lady wandering the beach in a red dress, swelling and pulsating waves in the near distance – a trick of focus, dress over one shoulder, wandering with band, rolling in the sand, freckly and lithe; “Paradise” has Sade in a straw hat grooving with kids at a small carnival, mingling with boxers and Latin dancers, spaghetti western stuff; “Turn My Back On You” is experimental, with Las Vegas Strip lights a la James Bond, the band as Rat Packers, goofing around; “Nothing Can Come Between Us” is a live stage video thing, with Sade looking great in a white lace dress, sporting a big crucifix necklace, the band looking cool in their black suits; “No  Ordinary Love” is cool with Sade as a mermaid, flirting with a drowning man, necking underwater – OUCH!! Then as a bride showing off her belly, in a redneck bar, throwing rice (or salt?) in the streets, Hellraiser III in the theatres, scum everywhere…, great harbor scenes; “Feel No Pain” is full of more great sepia shots of dry earth, naked Sade and gauze, hands, desert platforms, topless bare back beauty, clouds, landscapes desert, water splashing dusty heads, gorgeous; “Kiss Of Life” is city modern, images, neon, lush apartments, naked statues, abstract images, rainy windows, lava lamps; “Cherish The Day” has a scantily-clad Sade playing a Gibson Les Paul on the beach, and on the top of a New York skyscraper with the World Trade Center in the background, grooving ‘till nightfall; “By Your Side” has a fun Garden of Eden setting, with the Tree of Life, sunset colors, and a gorgeous Sade – the band hasn’t shown up for quite a while at this point – and glowing lights, jewels, fireflies, moss, swamp,  winter dancing, the band finally reappears in the trees, in the orchard, fake city, yellow brick road, LA street corner and back to reality; “King Of Sorrow” with Sade as a single mother, goofy family life, chores, stress, buses, markets, and the night club band; “Soldier Of Love” big bright bombastic, nutty dancing,, horses and abstract images, lightning, deserts,  wonderwoman lassoing; “Babyfather” has Sade as a silky homemaker dancing over a sink of dishes, running a Jell-o van, sakura dancing – yay!

I’d argue that Sade probably doesn’t have any bad songs, so a “greatest hits” collection is only a poor replacement for listening to all of her albums back-to-back in a single long afternoon, preferable with many drinks (wine? No… gin and tonic!). As such, many great songs were overlooked, but the one I really miss is “Why Can’t We Live Together”, the Timmy Thomas song that was the only cover on her first album (and one of the few she’s ever done - after “Still In Love With You”, of course). But if you are someone who doesn't want to track town all those earlier albums, and who wants it all wrapped up with the videos, this is a rich starter kit for you!!


title: Awesome two-in-one!! Both the CD and the DVD are excellent!!

text:
This CD/DVD package to celebrate a documentary of The White Stripes' tour of every province and territory in Canada (amazing idea - this band latches onto something quirky and then sees it through, very classy!!) comes with a booklet that contains a nice essay by Jim Jarmusch, mostly hyping the film we are about to watch by describing scenes from it and explaining the emotions he gets from certain scenes (Jack and Meg's wordless love as they acknowledge the tenth anniversary of their first show, etc), much as I will be doing in this review right here, ha ha ha. Comments on consistency and spontaneity, style, and the strange beatnik humor that they have. "[Jack] becomes pure BOY to Meg's archetypal GIRL."

There's a CD and a DVD in this set, what to review first? Okay, let's do this alphabetically:

the CD - The set starts off with the sound of bagpipes, then kicking into the huge blast of noise that is "Let's Shake Hands". Bursting! (Sadly, there's no listing of where these songs were recorded, other than that they were selected from the 2007 tour of Canada - "A shows" and "B shows" are listed in the booklet). "Little Ghost" is a great little folk strummer on speed. "Blue Orchid blasts us apart with its raw power, and "The Union Forever" is pure MC5 drama and storytelling. "Ball And Biscuit" has Led Zeppelin-y crowd interaction scenes that are pretty cool. "I'm Slowly Turning Into You" is some damn cool grooviness, with its weird keyboard nuttiness going on and on as Jack freaks out on his whacked-out voice, babbling away and away and away. Wow! The collection contains the band's stunning rendition of "Jolene", after which Jack says "My name is Jack White and this is my big sister Meg White on the drums." Sister... yeah right!!! "We Are Going To Be Friends" is a nice little mellow song, chugging along at Jack's typical amped-up pace. "I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself" is good fun, and the crowd sings along nicely. "Prickly Thorn, But Sweetly Worn" is a jangly mandolin track that also sounds a bit Zeppelin-esque, but has a cool singalong chorus that the crowd obliges Jack on ("that's our cousin on the bagpipes"... our cousin?!?!?!). "Fell In Love With A Girl" is good, bluesy rockin' fun, as is a very long "Seven Nation Army", which has a increasing crowd singalong on the riff.

the DVD - I'd become more interested in Jack White after seeing him in Let's Get Loud and observing amazed how he outclassed both The Edge (not hard to do) and Jimmy Page (Jimmy Page, man!!!). I was happy then to watch this personal documentary of the band playing both big venues as well as surprise venues (bowling alleys, a boat in Charlottetown, a flour mill in London, pool halls, etc), and even going so far as to announce a one-note show where they rolled in, blast one single chord, and left (to encore calls for "one more note" - Canadians may be boring, but they are known for their sense of humour).

This is probably the world's first black and white AND red film, making it very Emily Strange throughout. For the footage done in the north, it is still daylight at 11:15 PM. Jack agonises over the criticism of the band's image-consciousness, noting how Spin wrote "The White Stripes are simultaneously the most fake band in the world and the most real band in the world. Everything about the White Stripes is a lie." (Jack should probably be reassured that Jim Jarmusch finds them the real deal at least). When they are in Yellowknife the mayer picks them up from the airport and drives them in to town! Interesting to know that Meg and Jack bowl all over the world, and that Meg never talks and hardly sings. Meg does lead vocals on one song. Another song is synchronized with a 1930s film. They go to Iqaluit in Nanavut territory, many things are red and white, mud town, Rita guitar. They sing songs for the Inuit council, which Jarmusch notes is when they seem at their happiest and most engaged. Jack uses guitars that don't stay in tune, no set list, keyboard far away, these components force them to create. Plays in a kilt at one point.

There's a touching scene of Meg weeping as Jack plays a guitar at the end. Very nice video.


title: Spitz can't be beat

text: Spitz's 13th album only has a few standout tracks and many of them sound like clones of previously releases songs, but it's very pleasant nonetheless. Opening track "Beginner" is regular lumbering rock `n' roll, while "Tankentai" is a bit jauntier, with groovy background vocals. "Shirokuma" (Polar bear) is a cute little number with near-perfect melodies in the verses and chorus, and flawless production, as must be expected from a tight, disciplined band that's never sounded sloppy. "Koisuru Bonjin" hops and bops and has a nice rocky edge, while "Tsugumi" is a fun mid-paced rocker. "Shingetsu" is probably one of the best songs on the album, it is slow-ish and is dominated by a big catchy piano and semi-drone guitar riff that would make you think of Coldplay - except that Spitz is nowhere near as boring as Coldplay. The verses are wan and spooky, haunting and icy, but with great feeling, and they swell up to that catchy riff. "Hana no Shashin" is some good old country pop with a beautiful melody and chorus and good, drivin' rhythm. "Maboroshi no Doragon" is a somewhat cheezy rocker, but it's nice enough. Much MUCH better is "TRABANT", a superb rocker that is right up there with the best that Spitz has ever done. This song will put you in a trance of joy with its obvious best-song-ever-written driving beat that out-punks punk. I love this song. By the way, for those who don't know what a "trabant" is, this is East Germany's two-cylinder answer to the Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes and Porsche. "Kikasete yo" is a pretty acoustic song that is utterly dominated by the awe-inspiring smokiness of the lead singer's voice. Find me a prettier song that is sung as well as this one that soars into such a gorgeous chorus! "Enishi" is a bit louder than the rest of the songs on the album, but it's still just another happy, lite Spitz rocker. "Wakaba" is a sort of frisky rocker that is rather nice, it is a beautiful slow song with a thrilling melody that somehow picks up a big drum beat (I think it would have sounded nicer as a simple song) but is really very very fun and gorgeous. The sleeper hit of the album. "Dondodon" is a bit of a rocker with distorted vocals, but it is ultimately pretty conventionals. "Kimi ha taiyou" is a very nice rock `n' roll number.


title: Choppy

text:
This was recorded live at Koenji 20000V on August 31, 1997, the band jamming with the master (he does a fair bit of this - around the same time Haino Keiji also did a recording with Coa, and he has worked on album projects with KK Null, Merzbow, and many others). Haino's concerts tend to go on for hours and  hours, and this CD only contains 72 minutes of excerpts from a much longer whole (that, I suppose, must exist somewhere in its complete form... and with better sound quality, I'd expect). All of the titles are very long. First track "A Rise, A Moment Before Something Unexpected Is On The Verge Of Starting" has a long drone, with meditative moaning interspersed with the occasional spurt of insane bellowing. Drums come in, the droning swells, as does the insane bellowing. The song ambles along, eventually petering out with a bit of drum. At over 15 minutes before it fades out (all songs either fade out or are cut of abruptly), it is the longest song on the release. "Not Knowing If It Will Be Agony Or Comfort For Us" starts off with cool drum blasts, wicked shouting, and a real Boris jam. "Wonder What Colour Would Be Suitable For The Dwelling" is mainly about caterwauling and tooth gnashing, although there's also a fair bit of manic drum madness and guitar squeal with wild bass zooms. "The Decision Of A Dream Which Will Never Be Completely Red" slows things down a bit, while keeping the insanity fresh, and "It Should Be Watched, Not To Fail To Notice These Flashes Of An Accusation From Inside" indulges in wild, wild drums and screams. and strange long wild musical meanderings. The song is chopped quite suddently. "Offer It All Up, Our Madness That Will Be Crushed On This Land That Has Come To Be Called Chaos Unzipped" starts up with amplifier buzz, then goes into some sort of plaintive camel bellow/whale song that is probably created by a guitar. Or maybe it's a snake charmer's pungi. "From The Distance, With Their Own Gentle Eyes Always Fixed On Us, They Are Affectionately Gazing At The Black_Implication Flooding" is somewhat musical, in a dissonant way, and the song hoots and hollers, growing slowly into a great, clattering crescendo of noise power! "Don't Be Cheated By The Oozing Silt From Both Of The Accuser And The Accused Which Is Always There, Saying `Something Has To Be Done'" is all about smashing drums, the slow buildup of guitar, and then a big rock bash-in. "The Person Who, What Is S/He Like, The One Who Has Been Determined And Prepared" is probably the best fun on the release, starting with weird Godzilla sounds, the song starts off in a scary, echoing industrial world, with wombat attacks erupting constantly, roiling and rolling, a tiger worm struggling to blast itself away from its existence. But nothing ever really happens after that.

Unfortunately, the release would have been better if the mix weren't quite so awful - the recording sounds like crap.


title: Boris live with Merzbow (again)

text: This is Merzbow playing Boris album tracks live with Merzbow, similar in concept to Rock Dream but in this case they only do songs from one album (Heavy Rocks [2002]) instead of from seven albums (with an unreleased song on that one too, "Evil Stack") as they would later do on Rock Dream. The first song they do is also the first song on Heavy Rocks, called "Heavy Friends", but we first wade through four minutes of Merz-noise and crackling guitar before we get to it. The album was recorded live and the drums don't sound too great, but it's good fun nonetheless. The noise is highly integrated with the band's music, and squeals away through a lengthened intro before the band starts singing... nearly eight minutes into the song (it starts about four minutes in with the original)! Yee ha!!! Next song up is "WaReRuRide", the song that Merzbow collaborates with Boris on the album. Lots of loud Merznoise nearly drowning out the band here. Wow, though... wow!! The last two songs on the album are "Death Valley" and "Dyna-Soar", and they are way longer than their album versions. "Death Valley" has a very long intro, but so much of it is guitar that you'd think that they could call it a new Boris song. It is in some ways very similar to "Encounter With The Inside Of The Wave Motion Of Great Waterfuzz", the second of three songs on Megatone. The song as we know it from Heavy Rocks (2002) begins just over three minutes into the jam, but is quickly drowned out in Merz-noise. In fact, so is most of "Koei." But by the end, things die out. They always do...


title: Sweet, pretty music

text:
The title is ironic - neither song on this split is heavy, just as neither song has anything to do with the Beatles song "I Want You (She's So Heavy)". The first song is by Ai Aso, she does a cover of the title track of King Crimson's 1971 release "Islands". It has dreamy vocals, a bit of drumming, and spare guitar. It is much shorter than the original, and it also adds drum to a song that was originally drumless (but hopped up on trumpet and mellotron). Actually, I am not sure who Ai Aso is, but it seems that she co-wrote "My Neighbour Satan" with Boris for Smile, so she must be a friend of the band, a talented musician, or both.

Wata sings "Angel", a song by Kitamura Masashi (''''), an old school indie guy who had been in YBO2 (i.e. Japan's version of Killing Joke) and performed with countless indie legends. I can't find the original anywhere to compare it, but Wata's cover is even sparer than Ai Aso's, with light guitar, some tambourine and simple vocals (where Ai Aso's vocals sounded dreamy and produced). However, it does finally get "heavy" with a squalling Les Paul solo.


title: Cool cover, great music

text: This split single has two really great songs. It starts off with Boris' "Luna" (a song that's also available on an Adult Swim compilation, by the way), that opens with quiet guitar, then big fat chords, and finally a heavy drum spaz-out that takes the rest of the song into high BPMs. It rolls along, with lots of sweet background vocals and heavy drums, but not too much guitar noise throughout. The final few minutes are slowdown, chillout mood as the song becomes Floyd-y... and then bursts up in a big, evil, grooning slobberfest. Torche's "King Beef" is a drum-heavy industrial metal assault, with yelling and buzzsaw guitars (it bears some resemblance to Ministry's "Thieves"). Groove-y. And also very groovy.


title: Boris doing something it's never done before - J-Pop!

text:
Boris has released four discs this year: they put out Klatter (February 23rd), New Album (March 16th), and on May 24th they put out both Heavy Rocks (2011) and Attention Please. I guess they are making up for a relatively quiet three years - since the Smile madness of 2008, they've mainly only released and co-released singles, as well as an EP with Ian Ashbury of the Cult. But if you take away all of the covers on these four albums (one) and re-recordings of older songs (four), or the doubling of songs across two releases (seven songs appear twice across three of these discs), it's more like 23 songs instead of the 35 that are listed on these four releases. Yes, very confusing. But that's Boris.

While "Klatter" may be the most consistent and predictable of the four albums that Boris has released this year, "New Album" is in many ways the most interesting and the most fun. First of all, it's stuff that they've definitely never done before - it's J-Pop and shoegaze! You don't want to believe it's Boris, and then you want to be thoroughly disgusted, and finally you want to say... hey, this is good fun, I think I like it! Some of the songs are to be heard on the Wata-sung "Attention Please" ("Party Boy", "Hope", "Les Paul Custom `86' and "Jackson Head"), but with Takeshi doing some vocals.
Opening song "Flare" is very standard J-Pop, with all of the frantic singing (by Takeshi), drum grooning and weird scratchy guitar somewhere in the mix. Boris Is Super Pop Freak-Show! But somehow I like the song very much, including the wonked out mini-solo. Crunchy Boris elements enter at the end of this funky wonk-out. Groovy. "Hope" starts off electronically, then gets into some serious shoegaze, sung by Wata. The song is very of-an-era. "Party Boy" has bloops and bleeps and harp and beats, then some zooming big muff fuzzes. It's a great song (the version on Attention Please is much more stripped down, less fuzzed out and fewer beats - boring). "Black Original" is big, ugly keyboard noise, the biggest and loudest Boris has ever played on keyboards and a drum machine instead of bass, guitar and drums. Talk about experimental!! The version that appeared on Japanese Heavy Rock Hits Volume 2 in 2009 sounded pretty plain as it didn't have this album's plentiful electronic embellishments. "Pardon?" is a breath-y crooner by Takeshi that snakes along at a snail's pace. The solo is like something Pink Floyd might have had on Meddle, it's awesome!! "Spoon" is a very shoe-gazey song that just zooms and zooms into My Bloody Valentine territory (the production of "Spoon" on "Attention Please" is a bit more sparse, much less exciting). Beautiful. "Jackson Head" is a thick, head-on techno freakout from Primal Scream's best moments, with lots of weird ghost noises on top of it, it just goes on and on and on, also in wavering weird vocals (the "Heavy Rocks" version boogs out with lots of extra special effects, but it's a very similar version). "Les Paul Custom `86' starts off with drums and guitar groans, Takeshi's moaning vocals, then it becomes Wata's song, full of drum drone and electronic sounds, coughing and other irritating noises, and some sort of "Sweet Dreams Are Made of This" symphonic notes. It ends on the words "Echo... echo... echo... echo... echo..." (the "Attention Please" version of "Les Pal Custom `86 is half as long and starts off with the song proper that Wata sings, but adds cool bass barre chords that just ring and ring. Great! A bit of interplay and coughing and strange noise, but it is a real song). "Tu, La La" is a J-Pop song like the opener "Flare", but it has at least a few big crunches of guitar before all of the atmospheric vocals and strings come in (there's also a version of it on Heavy Rocks that is 10 seconds longer - it sounds very similar, but doesn't have strings). "Looprider" has frantic drums, guitars and strings, not to mention vocals, and it just goes on and on, ending with the same sounds that start off the album. Nice song. I wonder if they'll play it live.

Normally, this music might seem innocuous, but because it's Boris doing it... it's cool... it's ironic... it's baffling... it's a clear and obvious artistic choice (i.e. no studio monsters forced them to make the music sound this way).

Beware - according to their site, Boris is gearing up to launch "New Album" print boxer shorts!


title: Best box set ever

text:
Yee-ha, my box set finally came on May 30th, which I guess was the first day of release. I had it delivered to my office, like I always do (never know if the delivery will arrive at home when nobody's around, then you have to go pick up your packages yourself). This time my plan backfired because I had plans to work from home on the 30th and 31st! No matter, though, June 1st I was in the office early, fetishising over the box, the two LPs, the three CDs, the DVD, the 100 page book full of photos (no essay... thank you!). Oh, yeah, and the replica of Ozzy's cross, inset into red velvet!

For some reason, the set was delivered in a box that says "Bob Dylan Pack Shipper" on it. Weird.

The music:

The CDs, of course, sound great. These were among the first recordings I ever owned (I bought them on cassette tape with birthday money and Christmas money in 1982 and 1983, I think, when I was 13 years old). They come with many extras - the remastered "Blizzard of Ozz" CD contains the poppy "You Looking At Me, Looking At You", the B-side of "Crazy Train", and a "stripped" version of "Goodbye To Romance", the first song that the two wrote together (it is about Ozzy saying goodbye to Black Sabbath, the only band he had ever known up till that point), that is only Ozzy's voice and Randy's guitar. There is also a bit of a Randy Rhoads solo that has not seen the light of day until now called "RR". "Diary of a Madman" doesn't contain any extra songs, but there's a great CD of live music from the "Blizzard of Ozz" tour that contains "I Don't Know", "Crazy Train", "Believer", "Mr Crowley", "Flying High Again", "Revelation (Mother Earth)", "Steal Away (The Night)" with a Tommy Aldridge drum solo, "Suicide Solution" with a short Randy Rhoads solo, and then shortened versions of three Black Sabbath songs - "Iron Man", "Children Of The Grave", and "Paranoid."

The songs all sound great, and I can still sing along with most of them. What probably astounds me the most is the outro part on "Tonight", which just goes on and on for about a minute, Randy Rhoads really just wailing and wailing away. The guitar playing is fantastic, but then again, so is the songwriting, the lyrics, the bass, the drums. It's a whole package. There's not one ounce of filler on either album.

One song that was left off of set was "You Said It All" from the Mr Crowley Live EP. It's a decent song that I remember hearing live on 104 CHUM-FM around the time it was released. No idea why it was left off. Apparently the band recorded it in haste while on the road - it sounds live, but was more probably recorded during a soundcheck with crowd sounds filled in.

The video:

The DVD comes in two parts, a 42-minute documentary that shows recently-shot interviews with people like Ozzy, Bill Ward, Lemmy, Rob Halford, Steve Vai, Sharon Osbourne, and members of Ozzy's current band, like bassist Blasco and drummer Tommy Clufeteos. Zakk Wylde shows up for a bit of interviewing, but there are also several segments where he recreates some of Roads' solos (he must have played them millions of times while touring with Ozzy from 1988 to 2007). Then there's a segment of one hour and 13 minutes that shows a few news reports and interview clippings, as well as parts of three live shows - February 5th 1981 at the Palladium (a fan shot them on 10 old Super 8 film cartridges, capturing parts of 11 songs - there are gaps in the footage where one reel finished and he shoves another one in, he also starts and stops a bit to economise footage, but usually gets most of the songs' first halves); May 8th 1981 on the "After Hours" TV show (four songs and an interview bit); and January 7th 1982 in Albuquerque, New Mexico (concert intro and two songs).

The "Thirty Years After The Blizzard" has elements of the Osbournes, where you see Ozzy in his home, watching these concerts on his sofa, or chilling out at the mixing board with a producer. First, the documentary shows Ozzy talking about meeting Randy, rehearsing the first album in a Welsh country house, and writing songs. Whinges a bit about how bloated recording had become with Black Sabbath, complaining that they had to go all around the world to different recording studios because that was the fashion, finally freezing his balls off in Toronto to record Never Say Die in a studio that the Rolling Stones had used to mix a live album. Selling the album was difficult, but Tony Martell of Jet Records wanteed Ozzy. "Blizzard of Ozz" was released in the UK in September, 1980 and in the US in March 1981. Rob Halford: "Greatest title, just means so much." Lemmy happy that he's on his own now: "Before, it was Tony's band." Lots of the material that they prepared for the DVD didn't make it into the video, but there are outtakes on the web, like this one with bassist for those tours, Rudy Sarzo.

Ozzy never got a good review when he was in Black Sabbath, Sharon explains, but with the new release the press were all on his side. Steve Vai says that Randy did things that no guitarist had ever done. Ozzy sits at board with producer Kevin Churko (who did "Black Rain" and "Scream"), who strips away all of the parts except Randy's, Ozzy discovers something he'd never heard before at the end of one of the songs, that was released as "RR".

Sharon: "The Ozzy/Motorhead tour was probably the dirtiest tour I've ever been on. The atmosphere was fantastic!" One of the first concerts was at the Palladium on February 5th, 1981. Cool clip of Rudy Sarzo's bass in "Crazy Train". Had two albnums in BIllboard charts at the same time. Picture of Ozzy's butt as he's getting his rabies shots. Pic of Ozzy getting arrested at Alamo, and there are quite a few overlaps with the "I Am Ozzy" autobiography. In jail with wife-murderer. Two pics of Ozzy in drag. "Get over it - there's more to it than the dove, the bat and the Alamo." The lifestyle was a bit too much for Randy. Steve Vai, "I've never played with a guitarist who has never at one point said 'this is very Randy Rhoads-ish.' You hear his name among the greatest that there ever were."

The very rough Palladium footage, recorded February 5th 1981 shows "It's Up To You", with a boppin' long-legged Rudy Sarzo, "Crazy Train", "Believer", "Mr Crowley", "Flying High Again", "Revelation (Mother Earth)", "Steal Away The Night", "No Bone Movies", "Suicide Solution", "Iron Man" and "Paranoid". The band all split at the end, but Ozzy is the last to leave the stage - he really loves the audience and doesn't want to go.

"After Hours", recorded on May 8th 1981, the band plays "I Don't Know" and "Suicide Solution", then there's an interview, where Ozzy comes off as a bit pissed off but totally unpretentious - just a regular guy who goes to regular bars, not a guy who hangs out in pretentious rock circles. "If I'm no longer me, then who else can I be?" Picks it up with more footage - "Mr Crowley" and "Crazy Train". This live segment is the best, and you get really clear shots of Randy Rhoads, Ozzy, Rudy and drummer Tony Aldridge. An MTV News clip talks about the "Diary Of A Madman" tour and its $250,000 set, which was 30-foot high, the haunted mansion with the mechanical hand.

FInally, there are two clips from the January 7th 1982 show in Albuquerque that show the concert opening bit - as the band plays the outro music from the song "Diary Of A Madman", we get a spotlight focus on a throne at the top of the steps on the medieval dungeon set. Fireworks go off, and Ozzy appears on the throne wth a big shiny cross, comes down the steps and the throne recedes; Ozzy marches around the stage with the cross, hands cross to stagehand and removes jacket, then Tommy Aldridge hits the drums and the band launches into "Over The Mountain. Ozzy is fat and wearing slippers. Camera is at stage left, so we see plenty of Rudy Sarzo, quite a lot of Ozzy, a bit of Tommy Aldridge, and even less of Randy Rhoads. Last song is "Mr Crowley."

The book: This is one great book! It's the same dimensions as an LP, and it has a big, black cover with the words Ozzy Osbourne on it in white. The book is full of photos, some of them "stressed" to look like they are covered in dried blood or something. There are skull and horn logos all over the place, but more than anything there are pics of Ozzy and Randy hanging out. Randy died when he was only 25, so every shot of him is looking young, handsome and very rock 'n' roll, not to mention dangerously armed with his big ole guitars (he was a little guy, only 170 cm, so they looked bigger on him than they would on, say, Zakk Wylde, who's about 190 cm). Ozzy, six years his senior, is like a big brother - taller, fatter, coarser. The other members of the band pop up too, but almost never. The book is all about Ozzy and Randy, or Ozzy or Randy.

First up in the book is an alternate pose of Ozzy from Blizzard of Ozz album cover sessions, which appears in a distressed version on the box set cover. He's not in a spooky attic, but in a studio, with a big cape, and we see his arm tattoos more. It's a great shot. There's another alternate shot, this time from the attic sessoins, then pics of Ozzy and Randy smiling and happy, an Ozzy Osbourne guitar pick, "Ozzy Rules" and "Ozzy Osbourne pins, great memorabilia. Shots of Ozzy and Randy practicing in the farmhouse in Wales. Randy's ever-present cigarette pack. Ozzy rolling doobies backstage. Great onstage shots, Ozzy with his black shirt and white tassles. Pics with Lemmy, Philthy Animal Taylor of Motorhead and Tony Aldridge - everyone's wearing white shoes or boots! At a festival in front of a sea of thousands of faces. A bare-chested Ozzy still without his dragon and skull tattoos. People raising "Ozzy is God" flags. Five pics of Ozzy biting the head off of a dove. Yes, there are feathers in his mouth, blood on his jeans (and his ugly 1980 blazer), and then Ozzy and Sharon posing while Ozzy has the decapitated dove in his mouth. Promotional "Blizzard of Ozz" material from the time, from the US, the UK and Japan.

Nice pics from the "Diary Of A Madman" cover shoot, where we get to see Ozzy and the kid from the album cover in different poses - and note that the kid is dressed up to look like a younger version of the Madman, tassles and all (you don't see this on the actual album cover, as he's mostly hidden behind a desk). With the onset of Diary Of A Madman tour, we get to see the dungeons and dragons stage gear (Ozzy in chain mail and codpiece and all), and the outlines of the dragon shoulder tattoo. At the end of the book there are song listings, lyrics, credits for all three discs and the bonus DVD. The "final word" of the book is a pic of a 1981-era Ozzy at the urinal, looking over his shoulder at the camera and sticking out his tongue, his pants around his knees and his big white buttt in plain view. Nice touch, madman.

There are three pictures of Ozzy's touring band at the time, which included Randy, Rudy Sarzo and Tommy Aldridge (there's one more hidden in the Diary Of A Madman sleeve). The back of the Blizzard Of Ozz LP shows Bob Daisley and Lee Kerslake, the rhythm section for the first recording.

One complaint - there are no photo credits or descriptions, not even at the end of the book. Neil Young did this in his Archive Volume 1, and it was a good addition.

The LPs:

The LPs look okay, although the  colour on them is a bit blotchy and ill-defined; this will only get worse with age. Was this a cost-saving measure, or an attempt at authenticity? Either way, the LPs don't look so great. They are gatefolds, but inside there's nothing to see except the Ozzy Osbourne Cross/skull/Blizzard of Ozz motif for the first release, and a big old winged demonskull for the second release. They also provide holders for the four discs (two per gatefold), but I think that they could have found another way to display the discs without doing gatefold; even better if they had actually filled it with cool photos. Oh well, that's what the book is for. The back of the Blizzard of Ozz LP shows a semi-bearded Ozzy looking somewhat Bruce Dickenson-ish, with Andy and Lee Kerslake and Bob Daisley. The back of the Diary Of A Madman LP shows Ozzy in the dungeon of the drunken witch, resplendent in his white tassled jumpsuit! The record sleeve shows Ozy, Randy, Rudy and Tommy posed on the steps somewhere. On the back there are the lyrics, as well as some nonsense runic "wizard text." I wonder what it says.

The poster:

The box comes with a cool two-sided poster. I want to put it on the door of my room.

The cross:

It's a gold-coloured cross, fairly heavy. It has the word OZZY emblazoned on it, which may or may not be sacrilegious. It has a lot of scuffs and scratches. If it's an exact replica of Ozzy's cross, I guess it should have scuffs and scratches on it. I wonder how it will age, though, the gold looks like spray paint that could bubble and fleck.


title: Wonderful B-Sides for the most part

text:
Great recordings of really strong songs, generally followed by fantastic B-sides, covers, and other oddities. Unfortuntely, there's also a long list of wonky "Listen With Nicko!" that is a total waste of time - over 100 minutes of babbling!

"Running Free" single - A fantastic release with the awesome "Running Free" song as its lead, but then some other cool bonuses, including the first appearance of Eddie the Head on the single's cover. "Burning Ambition" is a great, energetic song from the pre-Iron Maiden days of Steve Harris. The "Sanctuary" single is also full of great songs, such as the prog-metal A-side. Then there's a fantastic live version of "Drifter" that opens to enthousiastic chants of "Moi-denn", a fantastic recording which here sounds like more of a funky blues stomp than a heavy metal classic. The band also has lots of fun with the sounds by doing a reggae-thing like the Police do in "The Bed's Too Big Without You." That's followed by a wicked version of a Montrose song called "I've Got The Fire," but here it almost sounds as dense as a blazing Husker Du original. Fantastic. But wait - what's "Montrose"?

"Women in Uniform" single - Non-album single that is also a cover of a Skyhooks (who?!?!) song, this one is funky glam metal and Paul DiAnno sounds like he's rapping! "Invasion" is a tight Thin Lizzy-type rocker. "Twilight Zone" is kind of like a Scorpions song from the 1970s, but very good. "Phantom of the Opera" and "Wrathchild" are all live tracks.

"Purgatory/Genghis Khan" single, with "Maiden Japan" live EP - More great Paul DiAnno songs, particularly Purgatory. I somehow don't remember this song well, and Paul makes it sound more punk than metal. Great, great, great. Live they were really tight, especially for that big Japanese crowd.

"Run To The Hills" single - I was never crazy about this song, but it's okay. The b-side "Total Eclipse" is nothing special either. Bruce Dickinson's live version of "Remember Tomorrow" is sung in his fake Paul DiAnno voice, pretty weird. What's weirder still is that apparently it's really the version of the sone that appears on "Maiden Japan" with Bruce's vocals overdubbed, although at the end of the song both of them yell out "thank you," meaning that when they added Bruce's vocal they forgot to remove Paul's. Oops!

"Flight of Icarus" single - I always thought that this was one of their best songs. Comes with a Bruce Dickinson live version of the Montrose song "I've Got The Fire," and a Jethro Tull cover of "Cross-Eyed Mary," neither of which is very good.

"Two Minutes To Midnight" single, "Aces High" single - "Two Minutes To Midnight" is a pretty standard Iron Maiden song, so-so, and "Rainbow's Gold" is a cover from some band called Beckett - monotonal, but fast-paced and pretty good, actually, a keeper. Then there's some junk called "Mission From `Arry," which is a taped conversation of an argumentt between Nicko McBrain and Steve Harris, some useless dispute over a screwup during Nicko's drum solo, recorded by a smirking Bruce Dickinson, quite irritating, really, but sort of a bit of "reality TV" from the olden days. "Aces High" is a fun, punchy album numbre, while "King of Twilight," a cover from a band called Nektar, is not that great.

"Running Free" and "Run To The Hills" singles from live album "Live After Death" - pretty good live albums, very tight versions of "Running Free," "Sanctuary" with a strange vocal trick by Bruce, "Murders In The Rue Morgue," "Run To The Hills," "Phantom Of The Opera" with weird high-low vocals, and the instrumental "Losfer Words." "Scream for me Long Beach!"

"Wasted Years" single - this is probably one of my favourite Iron Maiden songs, I like the "ticklish" guitar sounds, but also just about everything else about it. The rest of the album is not great, but the lead-off song is. "Reach Out" is a side-project song, and has Adrian Smith on vocals (?!?!). "Sheriff of Huddersfield" is a song where the band takes the piss out of their manager Ron Smallwood, starting the song off saying "we're on a mission from Rod." Great lines making fun of his Cockney accent, living in L.A., anything. The "Stranger in a Strange Land" single has a pretty generic A-side, followed by "That Girl," a ballad of sorts that is also one of the "galloping" Iron Maiden songs, not a bad number. "Juanita" is a pretty good rocker.

"Can I Play With Madness" single - From "Seventh Son of the Seventh Son," the first Iron Maiden album I failed to buy, and I didn't buy another until 2007's "A Matter of Life or Death." "Black Bart Blues" is a strange "groupie song" with lots of fooling around, including a string of soundbites of Nicko intro-ing songs. "Massacre" is a cover of a Johnny the Fox-era Thin Lizzy song, and sounds pretty good. This single's B-side is tons better than it's A-side, five stars! "The Evil That Men Do" is another single, a pretty good song indeed. "Prowler 88' is a savage remake of the old Paul DiAnno song, unessential, ditto for "Charlotte the Harlot 88."

"The Clairvoyant" single - Another album track I've never heard before, this one has nice guitar work. A live version of "The Prisoner" is okay, "Heaven Can Wait" is so-so (although the crowd singalong part is cool). For "Infinite Dreams" it's more live songs, this one is not bad either. Then there is a version of "Killers," "Still Life," and then the set is through.


title: GREAT DEBUT FROM TIM!!!!!!!!

text: Tim Maia's debut is one of the coolest Rock, Funk Soul albums ever made!!! Tim shows his brutal talent since the beginning with pearls like AZUL DA COR DO MAR, CORONÉ ANTONIO BENTO, RISOS, JUREMA and PRIMAVERA!!!! Tim is the king of the Brazilian music, check all his stuff!!!!


title: A GREAT ALBUM FROM SKANK!!!

text: VELOCIA is another GREAT album from SKANK....Yes, this REGGAE ROCK band from Belo Horizonte is one of the BEST bands from Brazil....I like most kinds of ROCK, and i  really enjoy REGGAE, so SKANK was always one of my favourite bands since their beginnings in the early 90's....These guys know how to mix Beatles melodies with a REGGAE flavour, and i think VELOCIA is one of their best albums!!!!WELL DONE, SKANK!!!


title: MATANZAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!

text: MATANZA continue their classic formula of COUNTRY CORE with some SLAYER MOTÖRHEAD influences in their 5th studio album....While not my favourite from MATANZA, THUNDER DOPE can please open minded hardcore lovers around the world!!!!!!!


title: WOW!!! TITÃS BEST!!!!!!!!!!!

text: While i really like the classic CABEÇA DINOSSAURO and TUDO AO MESMO TEMPO AGORA, this one is my favorite!!!!! TITÃS really did a great HEAVY METAL PUNK GRUNGE masterpiece on TITANOMAQUIA!!!!!! BY FAR ONE OF THE BEST HEAVY ROCK ALBUMS with PORTUGUESE LYRICS!!!!!!!!!!


title: RATOS RULES!!!!

text: RATOS DE PORÃO is a Punk Metal legend on the underground of Brazil....While SEPULTURA is WAY WAY WAY more recognized than RATOS, i think RATOS is almost on SEP's level....HOMEM INIMIGO DO HOMEM shows a mature band, with more than 20 years touring, creating something between Grindcore, Hardcore and all kinds of Punk Metal.....If you understand the portuguese lyrics, you will enjoy this one!!!!


title: Five Stars

text: All good


title: Five Stars

text: great


title: All Original songs

text: just what I was looking for.


title: Great

text: Really good collection of music from enigma so if you enjoy enigma or are looking for mellow towards ambient style sounds then this is a good choice


title: Get it now before it goes out of print!  Bozzio’s best and most straightforward rock/prog drumming?

text:
Short (mostly unbiased) general review:
This was included in the enormous UK Ultimate Collector’s Edition, which was expensive and went out of print quickly.  I appreciate having this as a standalone release and at a reasonable price.
This Expanded version includes the entire original concert, including the entire Danger Money album, 2/3 of their debut album, and two new/unreleased songs.  The performance is strong and contains some extended jams and solos.
It sounds fresh for a 35+ year old recording, with good separation between instruments.  The details are clear, especially with Bozzio's drumming.  It doesn't sound overdriven/saturated.
I don't have a 5.1 system, so I can't comment on the 5.1 version of the Blu-Ray, but the Stereo version of the Blu-Ray is similar to the sound of the CDs.
My only complaint is the lack of liner notes.  I would appreciate any insight into the show or the band dynamic at the time.  A few new photographs were added, but nothing revelatory.
Regardless, it is refreshing to have the full-tapes released of this show...even if we had to wait 40 years for it.

Additional review (very biased and entirely from a drummer’s perspective):
I became a Terry Bozzio fan in 1987 when I was introduced to this album.  It was a game changer then, and this expanded version is more of the same – jaw dropping.  I was, obviously, 8 years late to this album…I presume it was groundbreaking when it came out.
Bozzio’s playing at this period (post-Zappa and pre-Missing Persons) is FEROCIOUS.  For 1979, he is arguably operating at a different level than his esteemed peers in the rock/prog world – as an artist, he is pushing the envelope on technicality, dynamics and innovation.
It helps that the music has a level of complexity.  The material is full of odd time signatures, and passages changing from quiet and melodic to muscular and bombastic.  Bozzio plays unconventional double bass patterns, blurringly fast tom/snare combination fills, and pounds the daylights out of his drums and then plays delicate ghost-note patterns.  Even the drum sound is unique - a full roto-tom kit.
This album gives us a unique opportunity to compare both of UK’s drummers playing each other’s material on different live releases.  Bill Bruford plays on the 1978 Live in America (Concert Classics Vol. 4) album and he plays three new songs which Bozzio would eventually record for the Danger Money/Night After Night releases.  Bozzio plays several Bruford parts on this album.
Regardless, it is interesting that UK introduced new/unreleased material on both of its tours.

I enjoyed Jobson’s keyboard parts…he has a range of sounds from “classic” 1960s – early 70s (Hammond organ, Minimoog) and almost into 80s (Yamaha CS80 and maybe a Prophet-5).  Would like to see a full list of what gear he had on this tour.

Enjoy.

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title: Delightful bargain

text:
This record contains Mozart's flute quartets K.285 and 298 (the ones with three movements), plus his piano quartet in G minor K.478, played in period style on historical instruments, recorded by the Wiener Akadamie for the Novalis label.

The playing is very good, the period wooden flute not as weak as it can sound in some recordings. In the piano quartet, the keyboard is part of the ensemble rather than dominating it as it often can with modern instruments. Instead of a big bass boom you get an energising buzz. It's not the most moving performance of the G minor work, but it has a lot of charm. I should add that the recording quality is also very good.

Ideally this CD would be one of a pair, the other containing the remaining two flute quartets and piano quartet. Unfortunately as far as I can tell that doesn't exist. This one CD is well worth getting, particularly as it is currently so inexpensive.


title: A HIP Schubert survey

text:
There are a number of complete sets of Schubert's symphonies played with period instruments and techniques, and if pressed I would say that the set conducted by Immerseel is the most consistent overall, but this is not a strong recommendation. No set is ideal, and your best option is to assemble your set from multiple different recordings. With that in mind, I am going to give you my thoughts on what is available. I have heard pretty much all available recordings, but will only reference the major players.

Symphony 1 - The best two are Minkowski and Immerseel, but neither is completely satisfactory. Immerseel rushes the slow intro; Minkowski is a bit too slow in the slow movement. None of the options available give the trio sufficient differentiation from the menuetto, but Minkowski is probably the best in that respect.

Symphony 2 - Immerseel is the best here, and this is probably the best performance in his set.

Symphony 3 - Immerseel is quite good, but Minkowski is better.

Symphony 4 - Here the field widens, as we can include recordings by Norrington and the London Classical Players. Norrington wins with the most consistently engaging performance of this work.

Symphony 5 - This is Bruggen's one entry in this list, with a perfectly lovely performance. Norrington is alright but rushes the slow movement.

Symphony 6 - Norrington is best here, though Immerseel is quite good.

Symphony 8 "Unfinished" - We are used to hearing a distorted version of this symphony, which is traditionally played as a Mahlerian dirge, in defiance of the composer's tempo markings and the nature of his other works. Two conductors make this sound like a work that fits naturally between symphonies 6 and 9 - Norrington and Weil, with a rousing first movement and a flowing slow movement (andante con moto). My only quibble is that, in both performances, the slow movement seems to start off at the same tempo that the first movement ends with. Norrington's performance is more elegant and refined; Weil's has more guts, though this difference may partly be due to recording quality.

Symphony 9 "Great" - Norrington and Weil again, and with the same difference noted above.

After completing my survey, I was surprised at how often Norrington was at the top rank. He does not have the best sound recording (that would be Immerseel), but he is a natural Schubertian. If EMI had let him record the first three symphonies, I think he might have had the best set overall. (Sadly, I think his later Stuttgart recordings are not on the same level.)

There are two other symphonies which have been completed by others. 7 has not been recorded with period instruments and techniques. 10 has two contenders - Bartholomee takes the first two movements at funereal tempos and inserts a third movement which was not part of the original sketches. Mackerras plays with modern instruments and period horns; his first movement drags (though not as much as Bartholomee), and he seems uninspired. So your best option for these two symphonies is still the modern instrument recordings conducted by Marriner, which are only available in his complete set.

This set conducted by Norrington is available at ASIN B014I302QQ and B00008Y178.


title: Outstanding HIP versions of these symphonies

text:
I am not always a fan of Bruggen's conducting. His tempo choices sometimes seem misguided, with slow movements too fast and fast movements too slow, and his expressive devices can seem heavy-handed and self-conscious. This record, however, is great. This was the highlight of his Haydn recordings, and I would call it a compulsory acquisition for any fan of Haydn in "historical" performance. Bruggen has the grandness needed for 104 (this is the most grand of all the historical instrument recordings of this work), and also does the most exciting second movement of 100 that I've heard. Here he takes a broader tempo than most, and encourages from his musicians a sound so characteristic it could be called grotesque - but completely in keeping with the spirit of the work. Essential.

Amazon has entries for this CD at ASIN B000EOEM8S, B00000E4ZX, B01N32LFU7


title: A fine digital set in the Romantic style

text:
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, like many orchestras now, has its own recording label, but unlike most other orchestras the RPO has made repeated attempts at this going back to the 1980s. Their 1990s recordings were released by Tring and are mostly available on various bargain labels now (Handley's recording of the Planets is perhaps the highlight of that era). There was a previous attempt in the 1980s in conjunction with the Japanese label Pony Canyon (not a very Japanese-sounding name!). I'm aware of this because in the mid-90s I picked up recordings of Mahler 4 and 5 conducted by Inoue. Those were fine performances (albeit quite broad in tempo), aided by gorgeous sound, atmospheric and well staged, with a rich bronze tonal coloration.
Here are excellent performances of Mozart's violin concertos, curiously played by the London Philharmonic rather than the Royal Phil. The sound seems as good as that provided to Inoue, though admittedly I have not yet examined them under headphones. Eschenbach leads a tasteful performance in the traditional style, quite "big band" but lifted by Eschenbach's usual light, unemphatic touch. The soloist is the little-known Young-Uck Kim, whose sound is very sweet, again very traditional but without the worst things that word might imply, i.e. heavy vibrato, stentorian address or excessive egoism. Sadly my copy is missing its booklet so I don't know what cadenzas he plays, but they are unapologetically Romantic, convincingly presenting Mozart as seen through the eyes of the late 19th century.
If you have already collected the great Mozart recordings of the mid-20th century, then this set may not rock your world, but these fine digital recordings will certainly please your ear and warm your heart, as all good performances of Mozart should.


title: Best option for early Schubert quartets

text:
Except for the last four, the string quartets of Schubert tend to be overlooked, which is a shame as they are a vital record of his development as a composer, and enjoyable in their own right. Perhaps the issue is that, like the early symphonies, they are essentially Classical pieces, which quality admirers of his last and most Romantic works perceive as a failing.

Although this is fringe repertoire, there are ten recordings of the complete cycle by the following quartets: Verdi, Leipziger, Auryn, Melos, Diogenes and Kodaly are the most widely available. The others are Taneyev, Coull, Vienna String Quartet and the Quatuor Sine Nomine ("quartet without a name"). The Quatuor Sine Nomine have also recorded the great String Quintet, but sadly that is not included in this collection.

The performances here of the late quartets are all excellent. They may not displace your old favourites, but they are played with understanding, affection, exemplary technique, and a distinct personality. I especially like their Rosamunde, which I place with my favourites beside the Italiano's Death & the Maiden, and the Hungarian's EMI recording of the last quartet.

But if you are considering a complete set of the quartets, you probably already have satisfactory versions of the late ones, and are more interested in the earlier items. Overall, the Sine Nomine are the best of all the available options. Their playing has both finesse and energy, and the sound is generally rich and satisfying.

For me, the highlight of this set is quartet 3 (D.36). This is the best performance I've heard, and it elevates the work to the status of masterpiece. One point of interest is that the main theme of each movement seems to subtlely derive from Haydn's 'Emperor' tune. More remarkable is the resemblance of Schubert's opening theme to one that pops up in the 1st mvt of Beethoven's op.135 (at around 1:45). Since Schubert died before Beethoven wrote his work, and Beethoven would not have heard Schubert's juvenilia, this can only be called a spooky coincidence.

In quartets 5 (D.68) and '10' (D.87), the Sine Nomine seem less involved, but fortunately the slack is picked up by the Verdi Quartett. Their set is less polished overall, but they are at the top of their game here. In D.68, they bring out the Beethovenian influence better than anyone. (This quartet references Beethoven several times, and the 2nd mvt specifically references the famous 'scherzoso' andante from 18:4.) The Verdi group would, overall, be my second choice in this repertoire.
You ought to hear the Lindsays' recording of 8 (D.112) - their extraordinary performance of the slow movement (the slowest on record except for the old Italiano recording) shows this "juvenile" work has undeniable kinship with the late works at their most haunted and timeless. The Lindsays have a mixed reputation, but this is one of their more couth performances, and must be the prime recommendation for this work. (Though I am not a fan of their accompanying Rosamunde.)

By comparison with the above recordings, the Leipziger Streichquartett's performances are what I believe the young people would call "weaksauce", mincing a little too much, too slow in the prestos, and lacking the emphasis that would impart a sense of direction to the music. Notably, they include the D.471 trio for strings, including the andante fragment (no-one has yet realised that the andante would make a great intro to the allegro).
The Leipziger recording of the four-movement trio D.581 is only available on a separate disc with the Trout quintet. This worthy divertimento (perhaps to be combined with D.471 as an answer to Mozart's K.563?) is rare on disc; your best option is Ensemble Villa Musica on Naxos.

Unlike the Sine Nomine, both Verdi and Leipziger include the early 'quartettsatz' D.103 (the surviving fragment of a lost quartet) -- BUT they do not use any of the existing completions, so that the movement ends with jarring abruptness (after a trill which seems borrowed from the finale of Beethoven's 59/3), which makes for an unsatisfying listening experience. Strange that they are so over-scrupulous here, but play the inner movements of D.87 in the traditional, and wrong, order. (Publisher Czerny put the scherzo before the adagio, contrary to Schubert's manuscript and usual practice.)
The recording of D.103 by the Melos Quartett is probably your best option for this work, but there are also recordings by Juilliard (not on CD), Kodaly, Vienna String Quartet, Diogenes and Maggini. All play the Orel completion, except Diogenes, who play a completion by Starke, and Maggini, who commissioned the Newbould completion.

Of the other complete sets available, I enjoyed vol.1 of the Coull cycle. They don't have quite the finesse of Sine Nomine, but occasionally find a bit more depth of feeling in the slow movements. It's a shame this set is only available as single discs.
The Melos Quartett suffer from poor sound by comparison with the others, and use rather more vibrato than we are used to today.
The recent Diogenes set on Brilliant may appeal to those who love "historically informed" performances (moreso in their later volumes), but I find their approach a bit heartless, which is fatal in Schubert.

One slight problem with the Sine Nomine set is the sound, specifically the tonal profile. Listening on headphones I find the sound a bit edgy. If you have a multi-band equaliser you can correct for this without too much trouble (the top of the mid-range is too prominent, the bottom of the mid-range is too quiet), but ideally this set should be remastered. As things stand, the unmodified sound is clear, nicely staged, and very listenable on speakers, but I am niggled by the fact that it could be better.

To conclude, this set by the Quatuor Sine Nomine is your best option for Schubert's early string quartets, though you may want to look elsewhere to supplement the miscellaneous fragments and a couple of the quartets.

(Apart from the liner notes of various CD releases, I am also indebted for this review to a series of three articles on the quartets written by Larius J Ussi which appeared in the Chamber Music Journal 2003-4.)


title: Track List

text:
The album The Scroll of Stone tells the story of princess Alma, who is tricked by a demon and has to go on a quest for the scroll of stone to break the demon's power. I liked this album, the lyrics were interesting, and the music and singing were good. No song jumped out at me in particular, but I liked every song.

Track list

1. The Wish 0:54
2. Chipul Din Luna 4:07
3. A Blood Red Dream 4:32
4. The Sun Is Gone 1:05
5. The Sorcerer 4:44
6. Road To The Unknown 4:40
7. Daca 3:57
8. E Magic 3:51
9. The Silent Forest 4:27
10. Mountains Of Ice 5:05
11. The Key 2:33
12. The Scroll Of Stone 4:32
13. Redemption 5:10
14. Daca Acoustic Version 4:09


title: Yes

text: I was familiar with at least four members of this group through various tv shows & movies that I had seen. I didn't realize that they were in a group together too. I've listened to this cd alot since I bought it. The music varies by style & makes you want to hear it over & over again. I'm glad that I bought this album for myself.


title: Yes

text: I'm a huge fan of Kat-Tun. I know some of the guys from various tv shows & movies, but as a group with others I think they are awesome. I'm glad I bought this album pack.


title: Yes

text: I'm a huge fan of Kat-Tun. I know some of the guys from various tv shows & movies, but as a group with others I think they are awesome. I'm glad I bought this cd.


title: Yes

text: JYJ is an incredible group to listen to & they have an awesome sound that just pulls you into the music.


title: Thought I would like it more but maybe later if I listen to it a few more times.

text: I saw these guys on a video and was impressed.  But the songs generally have the same tone or character voice.


title: The start of greatness

text: This is where it all started. This is some of the best Beatles ever. If you are a Beatles Greek like me you need this.


title: REAL BEATLES

text: What is there you can say? Alot!! This is the real deal, all the little comments.


title: Great album

text: The album that made them.


title: He just gets better every year

text: A mature Diamond, in poetry, musical talent, and smooth voice. He just gets better every year.


title: Great second drone

text: I would definitely recommend this drone. Just not for your first one get all your crashes out on a cheaper Dron like the Potensic-D80


title: A Wonder of Voice

text: This is remarkable music done with remarkable performance talent.


title: Excelente

text: Buen material y nitidez al reproducirlo.


title: Gwen is the best!

text: Between her voice and the song lyrics, awesome!


title: some of the CDs have poor quality

text: the case comes with about 5 CD's. about 3 of the CDs have poor quality. it appears to sound like a copy of a original; or it could be the poor recording.


title: Great album

text: This is a great Christian Rock album with some Hard Rock songs. I personally liked all the songs, but "Carry Me" and "After the Fall" stood out to me with great messages. Legend after this album became known as Legend Seven. Now, if you like Stryper, Whitecross, Shout or pretty much Christian Hard Rock then this is a CD you will like.


title: Five Stars

text: I PLAY THIS CD EVERY DAY


title: Good CD to listen

text: Great find for any church that goes on any road trips and need to listen to scripture


title: Another great find for  any Church

text: Here is a CD of Charlton Heston reading from the bible and his voice  is great and where you just want to sit back and turn off cell phones, TV or Radio  and just listen.


title: 50's kid

text: I was a fan of Elvis from the beggining of his career.  I love gospel and no one sings it better thatn Elvis Presley.


title: Lifescapes (Midnight Moods) - A Wonderful Late Night Escape

text:
If you are searching for some sultry instrumental jazz to spark a romantic evening, then I highly recommend this CD by Rob Arthur.  Well worth the money.

Rating: 5/5 stars.


title: Hulk Fiction: Hulk # 441 by Peter David

text:
Hulk Fiction: Hulk # 441 by Peter David

Although the sultry "Pulp Fiction" parody on its cover doesn't actually factor into the storyline, this is a well-written character piece about She-Hulk and Betty Banner dealing with the complications from the disappearance of Bruce Banner, aka the Hulk.  As usual, Peter David delivers excellent dialogue and some terrific moments for both of the female leads.

By itself, Hulk # 441 is a gem worth investing in.

Rating: 5/5 stars for ages 12 and up.


title: Seven Soldiers: Zatanna # 4 by Grant Morrison

text:
This is the conclusion of Zatanna's four part storyline in the massive "Seven Soldiers" mega-story that veteran writer Grant Morrison penned for DC Comics.  In a nutshell, the previous three issues show Zatanna (whose awesome magical powers, at this time, were waning) leaving a super-hero support group to go out on a road trip in search of her late father's missing magical journals.  Also, along for the ride is a mysterious, young girl who evidently has become Zatanna's protégé.

Suffice to say, it is a satisfying wrap-up to Zatanna's quest, in addition to the surprise plot twist involving her new protégé.  Perhaps the best moment is in one of the last scenes featuring a poignant, albeit brief reunion between father and daughter that helps Zatanna realize she has her magical powers for a definite reason.

This issue, as its three preceding issues, are all well worth checking out.

Rating: 5/5 stars for ages 12 and up.


title: Uplifting

text: The music is very edifying. It is most uplifting to sing along and praise the Lord along with the group of singers.


title: Nice Music

text: Sure wish the manufacturer had said who was playing the piano! Whoever it was did a great job. Reminds me of a lounge act.


title: Five Stars

text: Love the music


title: recieved faster than planned!

text: played well topic can be reviewed as needed.


title: if you still hold yourself accountable for your errors Jesus ...

text: if you still hold yourself accountable for your errors Jesus already paid the price-your account reads PAID IN FULL for those who believe. It's really that simple--hard to think so--but true!


title: played well a message not heard before [ by me ...

text: played well  a message not heard before [ by me on tv]-- an audible 'the robot' was neat...truth be told you must be healthy if you plan to aid anyone else journey


title: as advertised

text: as advertised


title: Worth it for the "Let's Go To Bed" remix.

text:
Great for the one song that I have not found anywhere else.
Track listing:
1. Never Enough (Big Mix)
2. Harold and Joe
3.  Let's Go To Bed (Milk Mix)  - Have not found this song on any other release.
4.  Never Enough (single)


title: It features just enough of his great guitar work to showcase his artistry without overwhelming the ...

text: Dylan plays his brand of 50's rock'n'roll complete with a honkin' sax, yet the music sounds fresh and never dated. It features just enough of his great guitar work to showcase his artistry without overwhelming the songs. The CD is a mix of the old rock'n'roll sound, R&B, and Blues, with a bit of rockabilly for a great mix of tunes. He also has Jimmie Vaughn play along on a couple of tracks. I enjoyed the CD very much and it will show up again when I am in the mood  for some good time, toe tapping music.


title: Five Stars

text: Great music performed by a roster of great artists.


title: Put these back in print, Capitol!

text: Why her other CDs are out of print is a crime and a mystery, especially since her passing. This one is a gem, but so are the rest.


title: Wonderful music!

text: Wonderful music!


title: Wonderful music cd

text: Wonderful music cd, I like this The Moody Blues cd


title: A Godsend !!!

text: Wow.  My dad had this record when I was growing up and he played it every Saturday.  We cleaned the house, cooked diner while it was playing in the back ground.  My dad has since died and the record disappeared many years ago.  You wouldn’t believe how happy I was to actually find it.  Plays great on the record player, that, by the way, I purchased just for this record.  Thank you for making my memories live again.


title: Pick this up at a good price.

text: I bought 20 plus years ago and lost it.  Pick this up at a good price.


title: Five Stars

text: Great for my collection of music.


title: Would recommend, classic album...

text: Would recommend, classic album...


title: Excellent Contemplation

text: Excellent Contemplation of songs form the era.  This replaced a lost set of CD's.


title: Just what I wanted

text: Had songs that I couldn't get elsewhere & they're all fine


title: Just as I expected & more

text: This was just what I expected.  I learned alot about this group from the notes in the case.<br />I knew I'd love all these songs - close to 80 mins of music with 31 songs


title: Just what I wanted

text: Good recording of all the songs.  Filled in my collection with alot of his songs I didn't have.


title: Just what I wanted

text: I always enjoy Floyd Cramer & wanted this since it's al country.<br />Can't go wrong...!


title: Why isn't he super famous yet?

text: WOW a must get! All instruments, vocals, and singing done by one very talented artist! You won't believe it's all voice. Get this CD now.


title: Yummy.

text: You don't find many recordings containing both "books" of Cygnus X1, so this is a treat. Was surprised to find it on Amazon since it's technically a bootleg. I take it that it's a soundboard recording, but in this case not all that bad.


title: Nostalgia.

text: Carries the tunes of old country artists about the war.


title: Four Stars

text: very inspirational


title: Five Stars

text: LOVE THESE GUYS. ALWAYS FUNNY.


title: Five Stars

text: HILARIOUS.


title: These are the absolute best of Ricky Nelson

text: Helped to while away the time during a trip through Canada.


title: Great tunes by the original artist.

text: Excellent travel tunes for those long trips.


title: Good

text:
I am wondering if I have the same Orbitrek Platinum as some of the people reviewing,
I have owned an Orbitrek  Platinum over two years now
and it works quite well and it certainly has not fallen apart.
I use it for 30 minutes 4 days per week and have no major problems with it,
granted it is not the quietest machine available,
the noise is not loud enough to disturb someone in another room.


title: disappointed. only two songs on disk

text: disappointed.  only two songs on disk. one song was on twice  case dirty and many scratches  disk dirty and many light scratches  so dirty afraid to put in computer with out a good cleaning  after disk played ok and copied to new disk.  one of songs on disk was one I  really wanted most  disk was relatively inexpensive lesson learned


title: okay

text: It is not too exciting to listen to.


title: Five Stars

text: Fantastic music!


title: Sweet & Peaceful

text: This is a wonderful selection of Christmas songs, done in a very relaxed and peaceful style. It is great during hectic holiday times to sit back for a few minutes and unwind with this music!


title: Great quality.

text: The quality oustanding.


title: Five Stars

text: GREAT CD


title: Five Stars

text: WHAT A GREAT CD SIGNED BY MISS BETTE.  THANKS


title: I wish I could find more

text: I bought this album some time ago as a joke for my son(we're 1/2 Polish) and fell in love with the songs. It's so 80's, it almost sounds familiar except for the language. But if you listen to it enough you'll begin to sing along anyway. This is a pricey copy here at Amazon. I found mine at a local shop for  much less, but of course that was quite a while ago. If you like 80's music you'll enjoy this.


title: Fan 4 Ever!

text: Amazing collection of songs from the master of love songs But my favorite song on this 3 cd set is his rendition of,"She Believes In Me."He sings this song with such passion and emotion you want to embrace the one you love These songs are all brilliant and that's the reason this man is a legend and I'll be a Fan 4 Ever!


title: This is Reba at her best!

text: Is this real? Am I really the first to write a review about this breathtaking cd! Alright,Reba fans wish me the best! Lets start with the first single on cd,"So Good Together,"an awsome song.Yet this cd is very differnt than any other Reba cd,for me its very emotional and shes got some serious ballads on here that will touch your heart! One track,"She wasnt good enough for him,moves me that I feel her pain.And Back Before The War is another powerful track! Great cd! Reba is the best!


title: Untied is the Gordian Knot on this CD.

text: Very Celtic sounding work, with old Irish songs. Another excellent work by Ellen Tepper.


title: The Porter Phantom

text: If you enjoy the Broadway production of the Phantom of the Opera and are familiar with the legendary hits of that work you will find this distinguishing recording of those tunes fashioned to a music box format to be very entertaining. This is one among two productions. Included here are some cuts from Gilbert and Sullivan, but the Phantom music is a standout. Porter has several CDs of merit. Les Miserables was a well done recording and Porter is famous for issuing Christmas Box music from old Victorian Tunes to more modern works.<br />This is recommended and should have you in a mood to search out other productions from Porter Music Box company. Also, you can still get the real thing. They are not antiques but newly produced music boxes using copper plated recordings!


title: Half Good - Half Bad

text: Tracks 1 through 17 are great.  The hit singles as I remember them in the mid-1960's.  Tracks 18 through 28 is garbage, consisting of awful covers of bad songs to begin with, just horrible filler, and B-sides that should never have been recorded.  I have never experienced a CD or record album that was half great and half awful, but this one fits that description.


title: the Motown Years

text: The Spinners have been around like forever, but they had a short period when they recorded for the Motown label and had some decent dance hits.  Afterwards they made it real big.  This CD highlights those Motown years 1963-65 with some great tunes such as "I'll Always Love You" and "That's What Girls are Made For"


title: Wish it was on CD

text: I had this album back in the late 1950's and I really loved it.<br />Then over the years I lost it in all my moving.  I finally found it again with the help of Amazon.com and a private seller. Happy again.  Too bad it is not on CD format, but I can burn it.  The music is really great.  Nothing puts me in a great mood like this one.  If it ever comes out on CD I recommend it highly.


title: What's up with that title?

text: 32 All time hits has 28 tracks!!!  Go figure.  Okay there are a lot better compilations by the Tokens out there.  Don't go near this one.


title: Great sound of the sixties

text: I remember 3 charting hits of Dean and Jean.  I have waited 46 years for this.


title: Rare and hard to find singles

text: Okay!  Finally Dale and Grace on CD.  They had some great hit singles in the mid sixties.  They sounded country, but I would put them in the pop category.  There is some filler in this CD but in order to get all their hits and they charted six of them, I would suggest getting this one.


title: A True Delight!

text: Alizee is one of the better voices that I've heard and I still am looking for more. I look forward to a great collection of her.


title: Man of 1000 complaints

text: As a long time kiss fan and a general Paul Stanley fan it’s really hard to believe all these glowing reviews. All this guy does is complain - it’s his parents fault, it’s his ears fault, it’s the kids fault on the playground it’s his sisters fault it’s his bandmates fault… His whole life revolves around criticizing and demeaning other people.  Really what it boils down to is this is a man pig with four or five years of great rock ‘n’ roll  and a laundry list of complaints a mile long.


title: Very close to being as good as his father (Bobby Vinton)

text: It seems Robert Vinton has his father's talent. This is a great CD and very well done.


title: Neglected but highly satisfying live performance of LA FORZA

text:
This virtually unknown performance of the Verdi warhorse, LA FORZA DEL DESTINO, deserves to be better known and appreciated. It offers one of the few chances for listeners to hear Marcella De Osma who spectacularly sails through the demanding role of Leonora with aplomb. One wonders why she did not--seemingly--have a larger career. Additionally another underappreciated singer, tenor Flaviano Labo is her Don Alvaro; in today's opera world he would be a superstar. Then you have Piero Cappuccilli (Carlo), Fiorenzo Cossotto (Preziosilla), Ivo Vinco (Padre Guardiano) and Guido Mazzini (Melitone).  In other words, there is  not a weak link in the cast.

This is apparently a live performance and is in completely acceptable mono sound. The orchestral forces (directed by Ottavio Ziino) lack the finesse of a La Scala or Rome Opera...more on the rough and ready side. But they do manage to invest this performance with suitable energy, every moment interesting.

True, there are literally dozens of FORZAs out there, and many good or even great ones, with superb vocalists.
But this one should not be ignored...I shall return to it again and again.


title: Superb Furtwangler FIDELIO, live from Vienna, October 12, 1953

text:
This issue of FIDELIO, from the Theater an der Wien, from October 12, 1953, is my favorite of the  four published Beethoven FIDELIOs under the direction of Wilhelm Furtwangler. The cast is almost identical to the commercial EMI recording made over the next four days (October 13-17)--headed by Martha Modl, Wolfgang Windgassen, Gottlob Frick, Otto Edelmann, et al.  But unlike the commercial studio recording, this one includes dialogue (the only dialogue in the EMI is in the Prison Scene). I believe this makes for a fuller and more comprehensible presentation, without the somewhat abrupt hooking together of musical numbers.

Of course, the EMI has the advantage of selecting the best "takes" and avoiding any mishaps that might occur during "live" performances. Yet, in listening to the October 12 live recording, I really don't hear any serious difficulties. Indeed, the singing is possessed of and dominated by a real "frisson" and propulsive energy that, despite the glories of the '53 commercial, make it my first choice.  Sound-wise, the Fonit Cetra is very good, and it appears to have been taken off a good radio broadcast, with the voices and orchestra very clear and delineated, and no audible distortion.

This particular performance showed up a few years back on several other labels: Replica, Priceless, Rodolphe, and, I believe, Archipel. But I think they are all no longer available, except as "used," if you can find them. I have not heard them, so cannot comment on their sound and reproduction qualities.

The Fonit Cetra release includes a full libretto (in German only), adequate cueing points, and notes in both Italian and English.

In addition to this 1953 live performance and the EMI commercial from the same year, there are two published Furtwangler performances from Salzburg, one from 1950 (headed by Kirsten Flagstad) and an incomplete one from 1948.  But of all  these, the live one from October 12 impresses me the most, for the singing, for the sense of occasion, for the intensity and sense of ensemble. And, of course, there is the incomparable direction of Wilhelm Furtwangler and his Vienna forces.


title: Smiley Burnette and the joy of nostalgia

text: This is a fun CD, filled with nostalgia and memories of times gone by: Smiley Burnette appeared  as a sidekick with several Western B-stars, including Charles STarrett (Durango Kid). Here is a selection of his songs, many offered over the air via radio, nicely captured.


title: Previously unreleased recording of Rimsky-Korsakov's masterpiece

text:
Rimsky-Korsakov's masterpiece THE LEGEND OF THE INVISIBLE CITY OF KITEZH is an amazing musical drama. Sometimes called "the Russian PARSIFAL," it combines both the mystical traditions of Russian history, with a religious and nationalist overlay, in a magnificent musical portrait that sweeps all before it.

The Russian Aquarius label has recently been releasing some treasures of Russian opera, and this concert performance (broadcast ?)  of THE LEGEND OF THE INVISIBLE CITY OF KITEZH from 1955 is an excellent example. Although the cast is very similar to the old 1956 Melodiya release under Vassili Nebolsin (which is best heard on Preiser, presently), this issue is conducted by the veteran Russian musical director, Samuel Samosud. Natalia Roshdestvenskaya heads the cast as the Maiden Fevroniya, with Vladimir Ivanovsky her Prince Vsevolod, and, as with the Nebolsin, Dmitri Tarkov assumes the pivotal role of Grishka Kuterma. The performance is excellent, with four or five brief narration insertions (for the benefit of the audience). The big difference is the conducting; here you have the veteran Samosud, whose swagger and onrushing momentum are apparent in such scenes as "the Battle of Kerzhenets." The sound quality is entirely acceptable mono.


title: Unreleased and very fine PIQUE DAME

text:
The Russian label, Aquarius, has recently released a handful of very fine live performances of Russian opera. This previously unreleased PIQUE DAME, dates from the late 1950s, from the Bolshoi, and features some excellent vocalism from Alexei Ivanov and a solid cast, under the direction of Boris Khaikin.  The mono sound is entirely acceptable. Recommended to lovers of Russian opera and the traditions of great singing.

Aquarius has also released a fine PRINCE IGOR from the Bolshoi, the same period, with some of the same singers, under Evgeny Svetlanov, and a EUGENE ONEGIN, from the Maly Theatre, St. Petersburg, with Sergei Lemeshev (but not the one with Belov, which is available already).


title: First CD incarnation of the famous Gencer/Naples performance

text:
This release of a live Naples performance of Giovanni Pacini's rarely performed masterpiece, SAFFO, is on the old Hunt Productions label, and is long out of print. But Hunt was absorbed by Arkadia, and the re-release (or, rather, re-packaging) by Arkadia is identical sonically and in everything except the jewel case design. The performance is incredible, and all the principals--save for the pinched-voiced tenor Tito di Bianco, acquit themselves well, and Leyla Gencer, "the queen of the pirates," is truly magnificent. Her performance here is only topped, just barely, by one of the Caballe live relays from twenty years later (the European Broadcast Union air check can be found through various dealers).

The opera is quite undeservedly neglected today. Old recordings from the turn of the 20th century offer a faint echo (e.g., the great Eugenia Burzio, etc.) of the fame this opera once enjoyed. A commercial issue (from the Wexford Festival), again, is afflicted by a less-than-stellar tenor, but at least presents the work in decent sound. Opera d'Oro has issued the Gencer in its Grand Tier line, but I doubt that it sounds any better than the Hunt/Arkadia (if someone can make a comparison, I'd be interested in the results).

SAFFO's final scene has intrigued grand sopranos over the years; it's a marvelous picture in music.

A full and worthy modern revival of this work is long overdue. In the meantime, don't miss the opportunity to hear this fine opera.


title: Fine production of delightful Tchaikovsky

text: Tchaikovsky's opera OPRICHNIK has had few performances in the West, and not that many in Russia. So this fine Melodiya import fills a gap. There is another fine recording of this work on the Dynamic label which is more widely available. Both are fine presentations. The best solution is to acquire both and listen for yourself. Recommended.


title: Five Stars

text: Loved him since I was 3 years old.  What a collection!


title: LOVE THIS...WORTH THE MONEY!

text: I lost my first one, after owning it for years.  I just reordered it.


title: A good sampler that showcases the company's musical diversity

text:
This collection of tunes was released as a fundraiser for the T.J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia, Cancer, and AIDS Research.  The fact that the album contains chart-toppers from the label's stable of hit makers adds to the release's status.

The album demonstrates that Arista is a company that has a mixed lineup of performers who are representative of different musical genres.

With pop, urban contemporary, country, and rock artists and their hits, this could possibly be considered a forerunner to the popular "Now" compilations, even though "The First 20 years" spans a larger time frame and shows the musical wizardry of Arista founder Clive Davis.


title: Good duet between father and daughter!

text:
While not a "country classic" in the truest sense of the term, "You Know What" is a fun little ditty, released in 1978, by Jerry Reed and his daughter, Seidina.  The two play off well together and the instrumentation is pure country-pop, with a little bit of string work to add some urban sophistication.

B-side "Louisiana Lady" is equally as enjoyable.


title: Wanna build a classical collection for a few bucks?

text:
One of eight albums in the Excelsior label's "Let's Do..." series, this CD showcases twelve classical selections from eleven French composers, featuring performances by some of Europe's premier conductors and orchestras.

An economical buy for the frugal music shopper, here is the track listing, performers, and times:

1. "Fete Polonaise," from the Opera "Le Roi Malgre lui" (Chabrier) - Orchestra of Radio Luxembourg, Pierre Cao, conductor/7:53

2. Menuetto: Allegro giocoso, from "L'Arlesienne Suite No. 2 (Bizet) - London Festival Orchestra, Alfred Scholz, conductor/2:40

3. "Sicilienne" from "Pelleas et Melisande," Op. 80 (Faure) - Orchestra of Radio Luxembourg, Louis de Froment, Conductor/3:44

4. "Adagio Assai" from "Piano Concerto in G Major (Ravel) - Orchestra of Radio of Luxembourg, Abbey Simon, piano and Louis de Froment, Conductor/8:48

5. "Pavane pour une infante defunte" (Ravel) - Ljubljana Symphony Orchestra, Marko Munih, Conductor/6:17

6. "Scaramouhe Suite for 2 Pianos, Op. 165b" (Milhaud) - Walter Klien and Beatriz Klien, Pianists/5:18

7. "Trois pieces breves" (Ibert) - The Dorian Quintet/6:31

8. "Three Gymnopedies" (Satie) - Frank Glazer, Piano/7:46

9. "La plus que lente" (Debussy) - Katerina Zlatnikova, Cimbalom; Orchestra of Radio Luxembourg, Louis de Froment, Conductor/4:30

10. "Impromptu caprice in A-flat Major or Solo Harp" (Pierne) - Catherine Michel, Harp/5:37

11. "Allegro marcato for Mandolin and Guitar Ensemble with Harp" (Besard) - Vienna Mandolin and Guitar Ensemble, Vincent Hladsky, Conductor/4:52

12. "The Swan" from "Carnival of the Animals" (Saint-Saens) - Marylene Doss and Annie Petit, Pianos; Wurttemberg Chamber Orchestra, Heilbronn: Jorg Faerber, Conductor/3:04

13. "Wedding Cake, Caprice valse for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 76" (Saint-Saens) - Gabriel Tacchino, Piano; Orchestra of Radio Luxembourg, Louis de Froment, Conductor/7:00

The album also contains a recipe for poulet a l'ail (chicken with garlic) for the individual that wants to combine some French cuisine with his/her listening experience.


title: A legendary actor shows that he, too, has "the FORCE"

text:
The second installment in the Star Wars prequels sports great computer-generated effects, a stunning John Williams' score, a better use of Samuel L. Jackson and Yoda (voiced again by the Frank Oz), and a satisfying development of Anakin Skywalker (later to become the infamous Darth Vader), played by the young Hayden Christensen. Christensen is a vast improvement over the child actor in the previous film. Natalie Portman's Senator Amidala shows the mettle that she would pass on to her progeny, Luke and Leia.
However, this reviewer must tip his hat to the addition of Hammer film veteran Christopher Lee in the pivotal role of Count Dooku. It is not just coincidental that Lee's frequent co-star, the late Peter Cushing, was featured in a prominent role in the first Star Wars' film. The inclusion of both of these fine performers, as well as the late Sir Alec Guiness, adds a note of class to the movie sagas.
Lee, like Cushing, is being discovered by a new generation of filmgoers with his role in this film as well as his part in the recent "Lord of the Rings: the Fellowship of the Ring." His towering presence and commanding voice are perfect for the part. The well-choreographed fight scene between Dooku, Anaken, Obi-Wan, and a surprisingly amble Yoda are highlights of the film's last thirty minutes.
Forget the "clones." It's the original Lee that makes this one a winner!


title: I love country and I love the Crue but

text: This cd is not as good as I hoped it’ll be. The best track on this cd is the cover of Home Sweet Home.  Not the best rock tribute cd from country artist cds out there


title: Epic Hunter before his storm warning, a must own

text: I knew Hunter would be big when i heard him live singing cajun and playing his accordian at 6 yrs old, now look at how big he's become. Now, i don't own this anymore but i truly believe this epic cd should be re~released through his new label so everyone can hear how he sounded before "Storm Warning".


title: Grea. Collection of paul songs.

text: Grea . Collection of paul songs.


title: 20 Fingers CD

text: Very good price for the cd,it came fast very hard to fine but they had it. Its looked very good for being a old cd.


title: A great album!

text: This album has all may favorites!<br />Rosanna, Precisely and more and great lovely songs that make Kenneth Copeland the great singer he is!


title: Muy buena compra

text: I love it!! Para los que saben de verdadera musica, de verdaderos artistas, esta coleccion cuesta mucho menos de lo que vale


title: Bad scratch on CD

text: Usps's fault, along with my own I bought this CD for my self January 2nd, now it is past the return date and my wife gave it to me for a present February 11th, upon opening the package the CD case was cracked and broken and the CD has a very bad scratch in it and it will not play


title: Five Stars

text: Thank You


title: YES!

text: Can't believe I found this album.  I would have payed nearly anything for it.


title: Three Stars

text: Didn't knew cassettes would be harder to Listen too....


title: Five Stars

text: Loving the music yell great


There is so little information about this album. I didn't even realize I had it and figured it's be fun to listen to. It's folk parody music from the early 60s. A bit off color of course, but pretty darn amusing. If you have thick skin and enjoy an album that could never exist again then it's worth buying.


title: RIP Mr. 3-2. Legend in the game

text: RIP Mr. 3-2. Sorely missed. Who's got a copy of this classic?


title: Great for any Pearl Jam fan

text: I had no issues with the product I received like some people are claiming.  And it’s a must have for die hard fans!


title: Best Hits CD by Tom Petty

text: This CD is absolutely solid.  Lots of great hits, hits you won't find anywhere else on one CD.


title: I liked it.

text: Not for everyone !!


title: Five Stars

text: Received as described.


title: Five Stars

text: aa


title: I love it. DVD and bluray

text: I love flans. If you love them you will love it too.


title: Kids worship songs

text:
Great music from Steve Green for kids to learn Bible verses.
l highly recommend this for any parent bringing up youngsters.
Samuel M


title: Smooth Jazz Volume 2....  extremely rare to find!

text: If you can find this and love smooth jazz...  you had better get it.  Becoming the rarest of the collection...  and a must for all jazz lovers!


title: Five Stars

text: good


title: Five Stars

text: Excellent


title: It is very good, but I am still disappointed

text: I have loved Bobby's music since I was a boy.  Can't complain about what IS here.  However, I remain deeply pained over the one song that ISN'T here.  That is Bobby's excellent single, "For All We Know".  I love that record, and for some reason, it remains m.i.a. on c.d. to this very day.  When will the powers that be hear my plea?!!!!


title: Beautiful voice, few songs in English

text: Dana Winner is a beautiful woman who sings beautifully. There are three CDs in the package.  The third one is recorded in live concerts and contains songs that are in the first two.  It has a few songs in English.  Most are not.  The other songs are probably in Flemish.  They do not appear to be French of German, which I found disappointing.  Enjoy!


title: Five Stars

text: Good product


title: AKB0048!!!

text:
lol Yeah I had to put that has the title. First time I heard of AKB48 was at Animazement (anime con Raleigh North Carolina) when I was at a panel on 80s J-pop and the guy was talking about their predecessors. I forget why I went home and looked up AKB48 and I was like eh. Then I stumbled across AKB0048 anime and feel in love with it so I started searching to find out if the songs were really AKB48 or not. Turns out they were. I got this cd but only three or four songs were from the show and they weren't my fav (that cd is on the way ^_^). My first reaction was meh its okay still love the three or four songs I already knew but cd overall is meh. The more I listen to it the more I loved each song and got addicted to it. The only song I don't really care for is 15 or 16. It just slow and puts me to sleep. Then again I am listening to it at work for energy to get me through my day so that is probably why I keep skipping it. I looks like all but two or three of their singles are on cds (Gingham Check and I forget the other). Still want an AKB0048 soundtrack because the opening on ending doesn't seem to be done by AKB48 but a subgroup.

I have not watched the dvd yet.


title: cycle

text: this music is so soothing, just don't operate heavy machinery<br />while listening to this, buy Takashi's other cds too!  No regrets


title: review

text: loved all the songs on the album in their full version where you can hear it with out the talking from the TV show.


title: Beautifully Cool Song Cycle

text: I really like this album. It is very uniquely worshipful, and musically interesting and excellent enough to work just fine as enjoyable, stimulating music in itself. Michael Gungor is skilled guitarist, and expands that from acoustic solo arrangements to distortion and sustain on the more uptempo full-band tracks. He has jazz training, which here and there contributes subtly to the feel, but this is much more of a fantastic, varied alt-rock album. Michael's wife Lisa sings very beautifully in a couple of places. Many of the songs are sequenced and recorded so that they flow organically into each other, so it makes a great listen as a whole, but it's still easy to listen to them as individually if desired. Great dynamic variation throughout, from, again, sparse acoustic arrangements to full-band energy with lots of drive and sparkly guitars. The lyrics are very "vertical" so to speak, terrific album for spiritually blissing out, thinking about God. There are intimate moments perfect for being all by yourself, and others that are great for driving, singing along, playing with a band or group. But bottom line musically, this is very cool, listenable set of songs. I would recommend it even if you do not generally like "modern worship music", as I feel that this takes the best intentions of that concept and really does them artistic justice.


title: CD is definitely heart felt.

text: Terry sounds just like he did in school.


title: mUSICAL

text: gREAT pLAY


title: ... who loves older music and they think this is perfect.

text: Got this as a gift for someone who loves older music and they think this is perfect.


title: Some of the best rock & roll songs around

text: If you want to get into the old style of rock & roll, then this cd is perfect for you. You get some of the best rock & roll songs. This cd is also great for someone that knows the songs on it, but doesn't wanna pay for separate cds just for a couple songs.


title: The best old fashioned rock & roll songs around.

text: You can't go wrong with a cd that has some of the best rock & roll songs around, like La Bamba and Whole Lotta Lovin.


title: very good

text: great listen


title: very good

text: nice music


title: it's awesome!

text: it's awesome!


title: single

text: i'm so glad that i just can't stop loving you the single with spoken intro came out on cd. awesome!


title: ALL THE COLORS OF THE RAINBOW!

text: This Limited Edition HardCover Deluxe CD release of Lady Gaga's 6th album CHROMATICA is the ideal presentation and makes a perfect collectible gift item for the ideal fan. The liner notes are beautifully laid out and displayed alongside incredible photographs celebrating this latest evolution of a pop icon!


title: Three Stars

text: No Problems


title: Three Stars

text: Good


title: Three Stars

text: OK


title: Four Stars

text: GOOD


title: Listenable but forgettable.

text:
The album is a good listen at least once, but I honestly can't remember a single track that stood out to me.  It was inoffensive, musically pleasing, but nothing memorable. I purchased this because of a track I heard on a canned music system in a store, but it was conspicuously absent from this album.

Later works, the one that does contain the song I mentioned, might be better.


title: Great music but not able to rip

text: Not able to RiP this CD. Not good because new cars don't have CD players.


title: Perfect

text: Perfect


title: Next best thing to being in church

text: This is meant to be used with the Treasury of Daily Prayer, and it is wonderful!  Beautiful, liturgical music that you can easily sing along with for your daily devotions.


title: Five Stars

text: Great music. A must-have.