Casio PZ4000B Blue Portable CD Player with Car Kit and 40-Second Anti-Shock
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $69.99
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Editorial Review

The Casio PZ4000B personal CD player features a 40-second antishock memory, so you can enjoy your favorite CDs during any activity. Bass boost cranks up the low end with just the push of a button, and the 20-track programmable memory lets you customize CD playback to your liking. The player also features repeat play functions (1/all) and a two-digit LCD screen.

A complete car connection kit, lightweight headphones, and an AC adapter are included. It also operates on two AA batteries. Auto power off helps conserve battery life.

Casio provides a 90-day warranty on parts and labor. ... Read more

Features

• Auto power off saves batteries
• Includes headphones and car kit
• 40-second antishock memory
• Bass boost
• 20-track programmable CD memory

Reviews (27)

good player
good player for the money but if u use anti-skip be sure u have alot of batteries

Very disappointed
I bought this CD player for my son for Christmas.He has probably used it 15 times at most and it just stopped working.It was great while it worked but it just didn't work very long.The warranty only lasted 90 days so we're out of luck.

Not The Best
This Cd player is great to listen with. The volume is real loud and it has all the play options you need for great listening. This cd player does skip a lot though. Unless your holding it real still in your hand it skips all over the place. I bought this one because I didn't want to pay 100+dollars for a cd player when all I use it for is the bus on the way to my basketball games. So if you decide to buy it you had better be ready to hold it in your hand the whole time. ... Read more

Asin: B00004TZQV
Subjects:  1. PZ4000BZSR,PZ4000,PZ4000B    2. Portable Compact Disc Player (Personal CD)    3. cd player (cdplayer)   

Brothers and Sisters
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 October, 1997)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $10.99
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Editorial Review

Their first full studio album without guitarist Duane, 1973's Brothers and Sisters doesn't match what came before it but would probably be considered a masterpiece if it came from most other bands. The Allman(s) move away from their rougher blues rock toward a groovier Southern rock, a shift that reflects the increased influence of Dickey Betts and new pianist Chuck Leavell. Betts contributes chestnuts such as "Ramblin' Man," "Southbound," and the classic instrumental "Jessica," plus the acoustic finale "Pony Boy," which showcases his work on Dobro. Gregg's impact is not nearly what it once was, although his "Come and Go Blues" and "Jelly Jelly" hit the mark. Original bassist Berry Oakley passed away during these sessions and is heard on just two cuts. --Marc Greilsamer ... Read more

Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (27)

beginning of the road
for me "ramblin man" was the 1st taste i got of the allman brothers and i've been a fan ever since...i've heard people say that "ramblin" is a tired radio fave and "jessica" is the standout and it is,but when i heard the harmony guitars at the end i was an allman fan for life...

significant brothers
'Brothers and Sisters' is the last significant work by the Allman Brothers Band.Their legacy began with studio albums released in 1969 and 1970, and coupled with their classic Fillmore East recordings, released in 1971, they established themselves as the premier southern blues-rock amalgam.The loss of legendary slide guitar impresario Duane Allman to a motorcycle accident in October of 1972 prompted the band to dedicate their epic 'Eat a Peach' double album to his memory.The band then began a transition to a country-rock tuning under the tutelage of Duanes surrogate, lead guitarist and songwriter Dickie "Lucky" Betts. 'Brothers and Sisters' was visited with tragedy as well when bassist Barry Oakley was killed in another motorcycle accident only thirteen months and three blocks removed from the site of Duane's accident.Oakley's bass can be heard only on the first two cuts from 'Brothers and Sisters', the second consecutive disc to be "dedicated to a brother".

'Brothers and Sisters' shows few signs that the band was in decline, but they would not release another album until 1975, and by then the significance of losing Duane and Barry would be fully realized.In particular the loss of Duane ripped much of the heart and soul from the Brothers, and Betts could only mask the rupture for so long.Despite their tragic demise, 'Eat a Peach' and 'Brothers and Sisters' represent the last of the cream from the Allman Brothers catalog.

'Brothers and Sisters' features the best-selling single ever released by the band, though they were never known for their Top 40 successes.'Ramblin' Man', a number penned and sung by Dickie Betts, reached number two on the national charts in September of 1973.Betts also contributes the final three songs on the disc, the most notable being 'Jessica', which many people regard to be one of the Allman's best songs, and certainly their finest instrumental.Another Betts composition, 'Southbound', is sung by Gregg Allman, and possesses a sound much more in the traditional ABB mode.Betts final number, 'Pony Boy', is the purest country song on the disc, and the most laid-back number offered.

Brother Gregg Allman contributes three songs.The opener, 'Wasted Words' is another Allman classic, with Betts slide guitar sounding errily reminiscent of lost Brother Duane's specialty.I caught the ABB fall tour in support of 'Brothers and Sisters' at Cobo Arena in Detroit in 1973, and they used 'Wasted Words' for their opening number.I remember that Gregg opened the Cobo show playing rhythm guitar on this track before settling down behind his organ for the rest of the evening, and I note that he plays rhythm guitar on this studio version as well.

Gregg's two other compositions are traditional blues numbers.Both 'Come and Go Blues' and 'Jelly Jelly' start out slow and build nicely and evenly in intensity.They aren't the best songs Gregg has ever written or performed, but they're sturdy in their own right and serve to maintain the band's trademark sound from drifing too much towards Nashville.

The liner notes are sparse, offering three listings of the songs but no running times, although the performers are listed for each of the seven tracks.Sadly, the disc doesn't even offer the 'family portrait' photograph offered on the inside of the gatefold in the vinyl version.It's disappointing that the artists and producers don't do more to beef up the offerings on classic rock albums.Is it really that much to offer a couple alternate takes, bonus tracks, lyrics, and some liner notes?It would seem the least they could do for customers who may be purchasing these same songs for the second or third time around.

****1/2 - the last of the Allmans' "classic" albums
Well, unless you count the live "Wipe The Windows, Check The Oil, Dollar Gas" which is pretty great.

"Brothers And Sisters" features tighter songs and a more country-flavoured style than the group's previous albums. It went platinum and topped the charts for several weeks, helped by the hit singles "Ramblin' Man" (a Billboard #2) and "Jessica".

This album was the first to feature the Allman Brothers Band's new lineup: Dickey Betts as the sole guitarist and co-lead vocalist, new bassist Lamarr Williams (on the last five songs), and the great Chuck Leavell on piano.
Opening with the great, tough blues-rocker "Wasted Words", "Brothers And Sisters" presents the seven songs in the order in which they were recorded. Gregg Allman and Dickey Betts split songwriting credits about equally, with Allman's material being the bluesiest and Betts' the most country-esque, and Dickey Betts also takes two lead vocals (the driving "Ramblin' Man" and the lovely slide dobro-showcase "Pony Boy").

Gregg Allman's "Come And Go Blues" is another highlight, as is the classic instrumental "Jessica" and the rollicking "Southbound". And the slow "Jelly Jelly" is not bad either. And, well, that's pretty much the entire album. The only thing you should be aware of is that many of these songs are available in even better renditions on the underrated but very atmospheric 1976 live album "Wipe The Windows"...etc.
So get that one as well, okay? ... Read more

Asin: B000003CMD
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Eat a Peach
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 October, 1997)
list price: $13.98 -- our price: $9.99
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Editorial Review

Having firmly established themselves as "The Grateful Dead of the South" via their enormously successful 1971 Live at the Fillmore East double album, the Allman Brothers had just begun work on a new studio collection when slide guitarist Duane Allman died in a motorcycle accident. Undaunted, the group rallied together and completed Eat a Peach, which, via inclusion of the 34-minute-plus "Mountain Jam," blossomed into a double LP. While keyboardist-singer Gregg Allman shone on tracks like Sonny Boy Williamson's "One Way Out" and his own "Melissa," it was second guitarist Dickey Betts who came out from under the departed Allman's shadow with his lead vocal on "Blue Sky" and his incendiary playing throughout. --Billy Altman ... Read more

Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (68)

simply another brilliant Allman offering
most of the classic songs the Allman's are known for are on here, making this the definitive peak and best studio album.If you like southern inflected jam rock you really need this cd, it is one of the best albums I have heard in a long time.Be sure to get this one and Fillmore East for the definitive Allman collection.guitar hero Duane lives on in the terrific music of these two collections.

Music from heaven
Eat A Peach is the Allman Brothers' fourth album and along with their previous live release At Fillmore East cemented their legend. During the recording of this album, the band was dealt a devastating blow when their founder and guitarist Duane Allman was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident. With heavy hearts, the remaining members completed the album, even writing three more tunes for the release that were among their best work. Therefore, while At Fillmore East showed a phenomenal live band at the height of their powers, Eat A Peach shows this as well as the band's improved songwriting skills on the studio cuts, in effect creating one of the best albums ever released in American music.

The album's opening track "Ain't Wasting Time No More" is a eulogy to their fallen leader. Gregg Allman's lyrics and somber vocals along with Dickey Betts' slide guitar are a fitting tribute to Duane. "Les Brers In A Minor" is one of their best instrumentals right alongside the more acclaimed "In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed" and "Jessica." Gregg Allman's "Melissa" is a great country tune that has become one of the band's most endearing songs. The remaining three studio tracks were cut with Duane Allman and show the band exploring different avenues. "Stand Back", highlighted by Duane's slide guitar, is one of their funkiest tracks. Betts' "Blue Sky" would not only contain his first lead vocal but also provide a prelude to the country-rock that would play a large part on their future albums. "Little Martha" is a tender acoustic ballad with just Duane and Dickey. The live tracks are pure gold. It's rare that a band could take a cover song and perform it so well that they literally make it their own. Amazingly, the band does it here twice with their versions of Elmore James' "One Way Out" and Muddy Waters' "Trouble No More." While both songs stay somewhat true to the original, it's the band's interplay that brings both these tracks to new heights. Then at last there's "Mountain Jam", 33 minutes of musical heaven where the band takes the improvisation of jazz to new heights without ever being overindulgent. The track is similar to watching a classic movie in that you pick up something new everytime you listen to it. This album should be part of every music fan's collection. Highly recommended.

An Allman Brothers Classic!!!
"Eat A Peach" is The Allman Brothers Band's 1972 album that marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new one for the band. Guitarist Duane Allman died in a tragic motorcycle accident during the making of this album so, "Eat A Peach" not only serves as Duane's swan-song but also marks the start of the band carrying on without their legendary co-leader.
The albums opening three tracks are the ABB's first recordings following Duane's death. "Ain't Wastin' Time No More" is a solid Gregg Allman rocker with a light gospel touch to it. "Les Brers in A Minor" is a 9-minute instrumental tour-de-force composed by guitarist Dickey Betts that has a slight Santana and jazz fusion feel to it. Betts does an amazing job tackling the Allman's trademark duo lead guitar style by overdubbing both guitar parts himself. While Duane Allman is ultimately absent on this track, his presence is definitely felt here. "Melissa" is a tender country-tinged Gregg Allman ballad which became one of the ABB's well-known hits. There is some great guitar work by Betts on this track as well.
The next three tracks are leftovers from ABB's excellent "Live At Fillmore East" album and feature the full classic original line-up of the band. "Mountain Jam" originally took up two sides of the album's original double-vinyl and clocks in at an epic 33:38. Here, Duane and Dickey's dual guitars play off each other effortlessly while Gregg displays some flawless Hammond organ solos. While Donavan Leitch's "First There Is A Mountain" is mentioned in the credits as forming the basis for this long piece, there are also references to Jimi Hendrix's "Third Stone From The Sun" heard throughout it as well. Definitely a centerpiece for the entire album. The other live tracks are the blues-based "One Way Out" and "Trouble No More", both of which have since become Allman Brothers classics and fan favorites.
"Eat A Peach's" final three studio tracks are the very last ever recorded with Duane Allman. "Stand Back" is a driving blues piece which once again highlights Gregg's soulful vocals that deliver a sound reminiscent of Ray Charles. "Blue Sky" is another country-rock piece in which Dickey Betts grabs the spotlight as lead vocalist with his emotional singing. The closing piece is a poignant acoustic Duane Allman-penned instrumental entitled "Little Martha" played by Duane and Dickey. This short track serves as a fitting epitaph to Duane's musical legacy and seems appropriate since this was his final album with the band.
Tragedy could not stop the Allman Brothers band as clearly proven with this album. The following year, they would suffer another devistating loss with the death of bassist Berry Oakley (also killed in a motorcycle accident). Even this could not halt the band as they continue to record and perform to this day. "Eat A Peach" not only contains some great music, it also serves as a fitting tribute to Duane Allman and points the Allman Brothers Band to their next musical chapter. The album also serves as a great companion to their "Live At Fillmore East" album as it includes some excellent performances from those classic concerts.
Truly An Allman Brothers Classic!!! ... Read more

Asin: B000003CMC
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Best of Bond...James Bond
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (19 October, 1999)
list price: $17.98
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Editorial Review

James Bond themes tend to be just as memorable as their movie counterparts and, to a certain extent, just as time sensitive. While many fans can remember the Monty Norman Orchestra's steamy Dr. No theme or Shirley Bassey's "Goldfinger," how many of us remember Rita Coolidge's dated "All Time High" from Octopussy or A-Ha's theme from The Living Daylights? Yes, just as we all have our favorite Bonds, we all have our favorite eras of Bond movie music. But surprisingly, whether they're New Wave, soul, or just Euro-pop inspired, most are still worth hearing. There are some real gems on this compilation: On Her Majesty's Secret Service's "We Have All the Time in the World" by Louis Armstrong, the Thunderball theme sung by Tom Jones, and the spunky theme to The Man With the Golden Gun by Lulu. Just overlook those sporadic lean years and you have a pretty stiff soundtrack cocktail here. --Jason Verlinde ... Read more

Features

• Soundtrack

Reviews (57)

An icon of the modern times!
James Bond is still , one of the most representative icons of our post industrial world . He represents an icon , a modern mythical figure .
The soundtracks in the most of those films became fundamentalpart of the irresistible charm of 007 as well for us to admire the supreme Goddess as well as the female audience who found in every generation the ideal type .
This is an admirable compilationwho goes from Goldfinger Shirley Bassey until Tomorrow never dies with the talented singer Sheryl Crow .
The best song in the CD? It depends from you . To me Nobody does it better is the jewel of the crown , but nevertheless From Russia with love is a nostalgic piece , the saddest is We have all the time in the world with the unforgettable Satchmo in one of his last recordings .
You only live twice threw to Nancy Sinatra to the stardom after being recorded Something stupid a song for two voices with her father .
The man with the golden arm with Lulu is an excelent theme . She was the same lovely girl that won with To sir with love . Paul Mac Cartney and the Wings with Live and let die . But there are themes for every special taste , all of them sealed with the unmistakeable rapport and touch of class who James Bond signifies .

This is the best of Bond... James Bond
This disk contains all the Bond themes until Tomorrow Never Dies. The best songs are the latest, but some of the old ones are good too. It's just that the newest songs that are The World Is Not Enough and Die Another Day aren't on this disk.

WHO COULDN'T LOVE THIS CD?????????
Any CD that has Shirley Bassey singing "Goldfinger", Carly Simon singing "Nobody Does it Better", and Tina Turner singing "GoldenEye" is worth listening to.We have all of the great James Bond themes, and every one is perfect in its own way.From "A View to a Kill" to "Live and let Die" to "You only live Twice" to "The Man with the Golden Gun", this CD is nothing but a collection of wonderful Bond hits.

* * * * out of * * * *!!! ... Read more

Asin: B00001YVFB
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Dance-Pop    3. Film Music    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock    6. Soft Rock    7. Soundtracks & Film Scores    8. Spy Music   

The Very Best of Booker T. & the MG's
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (21 June, 1994)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $10.99
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Reviews (12)

If it were only in stereo....
Great music. If all the tunes were in stereo it would be superb.

Minus One Star Because Mrs. Robinson Is Horrible
I had a roommate in college who wanted to use Green Onions as his wedding processional.But years later when he got married he didn't do it.Pity.

Booker T. Jones and fhe Memphis Group--yeah!
The members of this group were all individually talented and well-respected as "side men" in the music industry.There are other charted songs besides "Green Onions" on this CD and if you're old enough to remember that 1962 hit (used in the movie "American Graffiti"), you'll remember them if not their names.Also the non-hits thrown in make for a better-than-average filler than you'd expect.You can really set a mood wih this CD, but the great instrumentals are not all presented well--not the musicians' fault-still, even at "only" four stars, I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Asin: B0000033C3
Sales Rank: 2764
Subjects:  1. Instrumental Rock    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. R&B    5. Rock    6. Soul    7. Southern Soul    8. United States of America   

Suspicious Minds [1999]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (13 April, 1999)
list price: $29.98 -- our price: $26.99
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Editorial Review

Elvis Presley never sounded better than he does on these recordings made in Memphis at Chip Moman's American Sound Studios in January 1969. The artist was still on an incredible high following the success of his legendary NBC-TV "comeback" special, which had aired a little over a month earlier. Eager to record some relevant music after a decade of horrible movie soundtracks, Presley decided to work with Moman's smash-making (122 hits in three years) Memphis house band. Indeed, four charting singles came from these sessions--"Suspicious Minds," "Don't Cry Daddy," "In the Ghetto," and "Kentucky Rain"--as well as two critically acclaimed albums, From Elvis in Memphis and Back in Memphis. This two-disc set includes all the music the King recorded during that stint at Moman's studio, ranging from Neil Diamond, Bobby Darin, and Beatles covers to current and old country hits ("Gentle on My Mind," Johnny Tillotson's "It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin'") to a cover of Chuck Willis's classic "Any Day Now" that tops the R&B original. Of special note is "Long Black Limousine," a song about a huge star returning to her small hometown in a hearse. All the originally released American recordings are available on the From Nashville to Memphis box set. RCA fleshes out this collection with previously unreleased alternate takes (including the in-between studio chatter), as well as the Darin tune ("I'll Be There," a hit for Gerry & the Pacemakers) and a snippet of one previously unheard tune, "Poor Man's Gold." There's been much debate about the mix, but these tracks sounded great on vinyl in the late 1960s, and they'll continue to sound great for years to come, no matter the format. --Bill Holdship ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Classic Tracks, Less Than Classic Remastering
While there's no debating the five-star quality of Elvis' 1969 American Studios recordings, SUSPICIOUS MINDS probably deserves to lose at least half a star for its extreme, and at times quite intrusive, remixing and remastering. Depending on your sound system, you may (as I did) find the King himself remastered right into the background on many tracks, while the instruments come forward with almost surreal (and decidedly post-sixties) clarity. I found that turning off the surround/loudness seemed to help a bit, but there were still more than a few awkward moments. The mix doesn't help things any, as the bass is confined to the left channel for most of the songs and the backing vocals are frequently all but inaudible no matter how one fiddles with the equalizer.
Several prior reviewers have given this set a thumbs-down in favor of 1987's THE MEMPHIS RECORD, which does indeed preserve the feel of the vinyl originals better overall. But with essential tracks like "My Little Friend" and "And the Grass Won't Pay No Mind" missing, TMR is an ultimately unsatisfying package as well. SUSPICIOUS MINDS' great strength is its comprehensiveness, as it offers at least one version of every song Elvis recorded at American Studios a well as numerous outtakes and alternates (many without overdubs) to paint a truly definitive picture of these legendary sessions.
And what songs they are! The justly famed album FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS starts things off, its original running order preserved intact. The King gives some epochal performances here, notably on "Only the Strong Survive," "Any Day Now," the wrenching mini-tragedy "Long Black Limousine," the wistful and wordy "Gentle on My Mind" and of course his trademark hymn of late-sixties social conscience, "In the Ghetto." The hit singles "Suspicious Minds," "Don't Cry Daddy" and "Kentucky Rain" follow close behind, though for some reason only the first of these is properly paired with its B-side ("You'll Think of Me"). Other standouts include "Without Love (There Is Nothing)," wherein Elvis gives a foretaste of the huge vocal presence he'd develop over the next few years; Neil Diamond's dreamy "And the Grass Won't Pay No Mind"; "Inherit the Wind" and an effective spiritual, "Who Am I?"
1969 was, of course, the great turning point for the King. A couple of movies were still left to be made, but in the wake of his comeback TV special and these classic recordings no one could deny that Elvis had indeed returned to point the way forward as he'd always done it best - through his music.

ELVIS THE BEST OF THE BEST
Superb is probably not a strong enough word for this set. There are no weak tracks, and few less than fantastic. It is the King at his most regal best. If you never buy another Elvis CD/set, make certain you buy this one. You won't regret it!!!

This set is just wonderful!!
This 2 CD set,which covers all of Elvis' 1969 Memphis sessions,at American Studios,plus alternate takes,from those sessions,is superb!!The sound is great and those sessions are some of his best work.The alternate takes are very good,too.Elvis doesn't get enough credit as being a blue-eyed soul singer,which he certainly was,in these sessions,among other sessions,he did.He definately had soul and anyone who can't see that,just doesn't know.He was certainly as soulful,as Dusty Springfield,who is another of my favorite artists.This set is a must,for the Elvis fan and even if you aren't an Elvis fan,how could you not like it? ... Read more

Asin: B00000IFT8
Subjects:  1. Country-Pop    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. Progressive Country    5. Rock    6. Rock & Roll    7. Rockabilly    8. Traditional Country   

The Bonnie Raitt Collection
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (28 June, 1990)
list price: $13.98 -- our price: $8.99
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Editorial Review

When Bonnie Raitt collected four Grammies for her 1989 multiplatinum breakthrough Nick of Time, it offered sweet justification for fans that had followed her through years of great recordings but plenty of hard luck in terms of commercial success. The Bonnie Raitt Collection shows why those fans were right all along. From the early blues-mama stylings of "Give It Up or Let Me Go" and "Love Me Like a Man" to the increased pop sophistication she brought to songs like her funky reworking of Del Shannon's "Runaway" and Bryan Adams's straight-ahead rocker "No Way to Treat a Lady," the set offers a worthwhile sampling of the decade and a half she spent recording for the Warner Bros. label. Of special note are a pair of live recordings; a previously unreleased version of "Women Be Wise," featuring one of Raitt's primary mentors, Sippie Wallace; and a duet with John Prine on "Angel from Montgomery" that first appeared on the Grammy-winning Tribute to Steve Goodman. If you only recently discovered Raitt, this collection will help you decide which of her earlier works to sample next. --Daniel Durchholz ... Read more

Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (17)

First Raitt
The problem with "best of" collections is that fans will get into endless squabbles over what SHOULD have been included. Bonnie Raitt fans are no exception apparently. A cursory look at the fan reviews below attests as much. I understand how they feel, but folks, you know it's all good, and you gotta draw the line somewhere. After Raitt's extraordinary late 80s success on Capitol, a Warners retrospective was inevitable.They had lost a good thing in Bonnie and wised up just a little late.But graciously, Bonnie assisted in the selection of the songs and provided commentary.No hard feelings, boys.

A solid, consistent performer who has evolved but never felt compelled to constantly "reinvent" herself, Bonnie Raitt is not an easy artist to sum up, let alone encapsulate in a twenty song retrospective.But a twenty song sampler at least gives the new listener a broad enough overview.Die hard fans will buy it for the "live" versions of staples "Women Be Wise" (sung as a duet with originator Sippie Wallace) and "Angel From Montgomery" (here a duet with composer John Prine).

It's hard to imagine that a newcomer to Bonnie Raitt's oeuvre would want to stop here and not check out the individual releases (all available as of this writing).The earliest records with their rootsy feel have a special charm, as evidenced by the tracks included here: "Finest Lovin' Man" and "Give It Up." But even in those days, Bonnie was demonstrating her flair for contemporary material, as evidenced by her rocking take on Jackson Browne's "Under the Falling Sky."And although the Warners albums also included tracks penned by such staples of the So-Cal rock scene as Joni Mitchell and Stephen Stills, she also had a flair for finding material from less obvious sources.Paul Siebel's "Louise" isn't half bad--in fact, it's darn good.And she captures the essence of Chris Smither's "I Feel the Same" like no one else could (save the songwriter himself).Like her contemporaries, Tracy Nelson and Linda Ronstadt, she was discovering a virtual treasure trove in the works of Eric Kaz.Lots of folks find Bonnie's version of "Love Has No Pride" to be "definitive."I'm learning to throw that word out of my vocabulary, since my tastes can change from day to day.But of all the women--and men--who have assayed that song, Bonnie Raitt was able to bring something unique to it.Hers is a dignified reading, with more than a hint of vulnerability.Nelson's take on it, from the recently re-released eponymous Atlantic album, is also an interesting one, so strong and proud that it virtually belies the song's title.I can't decide which version I prefer, so instead I decided, hey, I don't have to.

Interesting that Bonnie Raitt emerged in '71, a year after Janis Joplin's tragic demise.Like Nelson, Raitt offered an alternate version of the white blues mama.Both brought a little more restraint and discipline to their art.Some found Raitt a little earnest in her politics and in her almost studious approach to the blues.But au contraire, mes amis, Bonnie had class and discipline--and she loved a good liberal cause as much as anyone else--but she was also as sassy and sly as you could want.And she sang like a husky voiced angel from Los Angeles.And played a mean slide guitar to boot.

Who could have asked for more?Eat your hearts out (17 years after the fact), Warners execs!

The early years, 1971 to 1986
While Bonnie's later albums, beginning with the Grammy-winning Nick of time, brought Bonnie greater commercial success, her earlier music should not be ignored. This compilation provides a selection of Bonnie's recordings from those early years.

Bonnie's roots are in the blues but she could also sing rock, pop, folk and country when she chose to. You won't find any country music here - you'll have to buy the Urban Cowboy soundtrack to hear Bonnie sing country - but all the other influences are to be found somewhere in this collection.

The tracks are taken from the albums Bonnie Raitt (Finest lovin' man, Women be wise), Give it up (Give it up or let it go, Under the falling sky, Love me like a man, Love has no pride), Taking my time (I feel the same, Guilty), Streetlights (What is success), Home plate (My first night alone without you, Sugar Mama), Sweet forgiveness (Louise, About to make me leave home, Runaway), The glow (The glow, Going wild for you baby), Green light (Willya wontcha) and Nine lives (No way to treat a lady). Angel from Montgomery, which originally appeared on Streetlights, is here as a duet with John Prine, his vocals having been overdubbed specially for this collection.

It is clear from the above that the compiler particularly likes Bonnie's second album, Give it up, as four of its tracks are included here. It's a great album but I think the inclusion of so many tracks might deter a few people from buying it. I would have dropped one and included a second track from Green light (preferably Baby come back) or -even better - one of the tracks from Urban cowboy - instead. Still, everything here is of a very high quality.

I must make special mention of Runaway, Bonnie's cover of Del Shannon's sixties classic. Which Del recorded it as an up-tempo rock'n'roll song, Bonnie recorded it as a bluesy ballad, making it almost unrecognisable compared to the original. Such dramatic changes to a song don't always work, but this one is pure magic.

The accompanying booklet is particularly noteworthy, containing descriptions of all Bonnie's albums from which tracks are taken, together with comments about the songs selected. Bonnie contributed to the liner notes.

This is an outstanding compilation covering the first half of Bonnie's career. More recently, another compilation (Best of) has been released covering the second half of her career. Furthermore, most of Bonnie's original albums are easy to find. If you end up buying all of Bonnie's albums, you will find that she is a very expensive lady (but well worth the price). In the meantime, this collection provides an ideal introduction to Bonnie's music.

As ever with compilations, it is easy to argue about track selection, but this provides a good overview of the period covered and will hopefully tempt a few people to explore further.

Made Me a Fan for Life!!!!
At the tender age of 18, I stumbled upon a strong, intelligent, passionate yet vulnerable female voice in Amercian music that served as a mentor to me.I was a young motherless woman searching for my identity and when I heard Bonnie sing of heartache, love and respect, I found the woman I wanted to be. Having worn out my first Raitt album, the bestselling, grammy winning , Nick of Time, I went looking for more from this rare talent and found The Collection which became my musical bible for the next five years. Though, I have enjoyed all of Bonnie's later work, it is her earlier work that remains my favorite.From the raw sexuality of "Leave Home" to the heartwrenching despair of "The Glow", The Collection highlights the enormous musical and emotional range of this gifted performer.This album is the perfect introduction to an artist who has become nothing short of a national treasure! And for those fans who feel they need no introduction, let me just say, if you haven't heard early Bonnie, you haven't heard Bonnie! ... Read more

Asin: B000002LLP
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Album Rock    3. Blues-Rock    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock    6. Rock    7. Singer/Songwriter   

Aretha Franklin - 30 Greatest Hits
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Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
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Editorial Review

Aretha Franklin's voice is an instrument of such exquisite expression that it has been matched but a few times in the 20th century. Borrowing from jazz, soul, R&B, rock, pop, and, of course, gospel--and accompanying herself on piano--she created an artistic vision that was wholly realized. Hits includes most of her chart singles from those incomparable Atlantic years, from "Respect" in 1967 well into the '70s, as well as noncharting classics like "Do Right Woman" and "Dr. Feelgood." This is the definitive introduction to Franklin's artistry, but be warned: get this and you're going to want more. --David Cantwell ... Read more

Reviews (34)

Queen of soul
Aretha's best work, showcased here, proves that she has justly earned her title as Queen of soul despite some ups downs in her long career. Aretha took a long time to establish herself but once signed to Atlantic, she found a producer (Jerry Wexler) who was able to make the most of her distinctive talents.

Aretha has had many major hits in America although she has not been particularly successful in the British singles charts. During her time with Atlantic, Aretha had two UK top ten hits (Respect, I say a little prayer) and two other UK top twenty hits (Don't play that song, Spanish Harlem). All those hits are included here, together with many of Aretha's other classic recordings for Atlantic, some of which were minor UK hits but all of which did much better as singles in America. These classics include Think, You make me feel like a natural woman, I never loved a man they way I loved you, Chain of fools, Do right woman do right man, Angel, Since you've been gone and Until you come back to me.

With Aretha's distinctive voice and delivery, her cover versions are always interesting. Surprisingly, Satisfaction (Rolling Stones) is omitted, but Bridge over troubled water (Simon and Garfunkel) and Eleanor Rigby (Beatles) are among those included.

This compilation, limited to Aretha's music for Atlantic (her best years), clearly shows why she is regarded as the Queen of soul.

Queen of Soul did it AGAIN!!!!
All i cans ay is thank you Aretha. Thank You!!

Incredible Overview of Aretha's career
First of all, I've owned 30 Greatest Hits for a long time and always thought it was an incredible collection. But after Amazon put song samples out for practically all of Aretha's material, I realized that practically everything Aretha recorded from '67 to '74 was great, so I picked up all the available cds. After having listened to all her work from the period, I'm even more impressed with 30 Greatest Hits. The compilers have accomplished the seemingly impossible: boiling down a decade of sustained brilliance to two cds. Contrary to what another reviewer writes, the producers of this collection have chosen superior and more representative non-charting material over the safer charting choices, which was incredibly brave and astute of them. Surely this is one of the best compilations in any genre, ever. For casual fans of Aretha, 30 Greatest Hits is all you'll ever need. For diehard fans, get EVERYTHING from '67 to '74. ... Read more

Asin: B000002IJG
Subjects:  1. Deep Soul    2. Memphis Soul    3. Pop    4. R&B    5. Rock    6. Soul    7. Southern Soul    8. United States of America    9. Urban   

If I Should Fall from Grace With God [Germany]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (30 June, 1998)
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After three releases that fused Clash-like punk and Celtic folk, the Pogues stretch their boundaries with If I Should Fall from Grace with God. Produced by Steve Lillywhite (U2, Psychedelic Furs), Grace flirts with jazz, world music and even norteno--the gloriously romp-y "Fiesta" sounds as if whiskey-parched vocalist Shane MacGowan hooked up with East LA's Los Lobos. Nonetheless, this is still the Pogues, meaning that when the day is done, Grace still feels as if it was born out of the bottom of a pint of Guinness. It's gritty, wildly spirited and, in the case of the ballad "Fairytale in New York" (a duet featuring Kirsty MacColl), heartbreakingly beautiful. Another great record by one of the '80's more iconoclastic bands. --Neal Weiss ... Read more

Features

• Import

Reviews (53)

A masterpiece
Though I prefer the American cover, I have to admit the European cover says it all. The Pogues. If I Should Fall from Grace with God. Spelled out in a classic font. Black and red text like a Bible. On the left, we have Spider Stacy with his western string tie, his slicked back gangster hair, and his Generation whistle. These and his direct, Clint Eastwood stare look exactly like his whistle sounds: a reverb drenched keen over Finer's spaghetti western scores. Next to him stands Andrew Ranken, looking like the displaced R&B drummer he is. He doesn't get to showoff until the next album, Peace and Love, but a close listen reveals how much of the band's energy comes from his simple floor tom and snare parts. Bottom left, Daryl Hunt and his hair. Hey, Pogues or not, it was the eighties, and his hair was nothing compared to Cait's. Phillip Chevron. The odd man out even in a group of odd men. One of the two in the band with a genuine lilt, but his with strange Broadway squeal that somehow managed to harmonize with MacGowan when it was needed. And Shane in the middle, holding himself up (we won't speculate why as some are prone to) with a bodhran. It strikes me now, in 2005, how young he looked back then, beardless and broad-eared. This well-read man had a genuine gift early, which is rare for literary talents. To his right, Terry Woods with his first full-length appearance. Founding member of Sweeny's Men, who managed to beat even Fairport into the Celtic folk-rock scene. Guitar abandoned, he grips his cittern as if it and his tux are the only things separating him from these ruffians. On bended knee, Jem "Country" Finer. You can take a boy out of the country, but I doubt anyone would tell you to take the country out of Irish music after Jem made it work. He was no Earl Scruggs, but I get the feeling even Shane learned something about songwriting from this plaid-shirt wearing former computer science teacher. And last but not least, James "Maestro" Fearnley, his beautiful Hohner stretched out. Piano accordion may be a bad choice for Irish melodies, but James had something grander in mind and, by gob, he made it lilt and bounce somehow and lifted the music higher, no matter what Shane says in hindsight.

And then the album itself. Some say it's overproduced, that Lillywhite ruined The Pogues. I don't know what I can say except listen to the first eight notes of "If I Should Fall from Grace with God" and see if you can stop there and not finish the next eight or the whole song or the whole album. I couldn't. That's how I got hooked. This is the first album I heard by The Pogues, and I have only the fondest memories for it. In other words, I'm obviously biased. With little serious competition, I claim this as my favorite album of all time. Having played celtic music for 10 years now myself, I'm still amazed to find I can learn from it in composing, arranging, and engineering to this day. Pure art. A masterpiece.

One of the true classics of the 80s...
The Bosstones, Dropkick Murphys, Black 47, Flogging Molly, and countless other bands since have been influenced by the madness of The Pogues. The lead singer Shane MacGowan's notorious reputation for drinking and drug use and actually making it through a set has overshadowed the musicians, who are as confrontational as any punk rock band. I'd put this up against London Calling and Joshua Tree (U2's producer also worked on this one) easily because it still sounds as fresh as it did over 15 years ago.

The result is classic. It's got a great beat. The title track is a punk meets Celticexplosion. Turkish Song of the Damned gives it a middle-eastern flavor. The "Fairytale of New York" is the most known off of this, with Kirsty MacColl duetting with Shane on one of the greatest Xmas songs ever written. Any song that starts off with "It was Xmas Eve babe, in the drunk tank" HAS to be good. But it's a catchy song that you will have a hard time getting out of your head for weeks. "Metropolis" is an instrumental, and "Fiesta" is an insane punk mariachi celtic clash. Irish coffee with tequila.

The Medley and Worms are the more traditional songs but done Pogues style, and "Broad Majestic Shannon" round this one out.

Not a bad song in the bunch. Not a dull moment, and this one competes with "Rum.."as greats.

Thousands Are Sailing... to the Pogues
Shane McGowan's vocals can be an assault on the unappreciative ear, like they were on my own.But I listened closer, thank the lord.Some may compare them to other Irish/punk outfits, but who might they be?The Pogues are a mainstay, a unique and fresh(even now)Perspective on classic rock,punk, and rooted Irish songwriting.They bridged the gap between my parents' taditional Irish tunes, and my own rock prefernces, and brought a better understanding of both.I used to hate the old Irish songs, now I devour the trad. bands, Lunasa, Altan, and Dervish.I'm drawn in to my own American tastes with better perspective, and my best band, Irish as well, U2 has remained the same, yet widened my appreciation of all music. They will always be the best.

Yet through it all, the Pogues are more like the Ramones than the Chieftans(or is it the other way around?).They are more like the Bothy Band than the Clash(or is that the other way around?)Comparisons are worthless here.There are no other Pogues(although I do recomend Shane McGowan and the Popes CD "The Snake").The tempo is strong and aggressive."Bottle of Smoke" is an insane whirly-gig of a drunken horse bet. "Fairytale of New York" is glorious, and pitiful, a great dancing lament."Medley" will be the most recognised, another Irish music purist called it the "heart" of the record.The heart of the record, for me, is "Thousands Are Sailing."This is an emmigrant's song, really, a thrusting and angry ballad with soul.The Brendan Behan referance is perfect.The Pogues are Irish Music Rebels.

"Essential" Pogues is more rare, but the best introduction and compilation of great Pogues songs.If you can find it, grab it! ... Read more

Asin: B000005S6B
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. British Folk    3. Celtic Rock    4. College Rock    5. Folk-Rock    6. Ireland    7. Irish Folk    8. Pop    9. Punk    10. Rock    11. Rock/Pop   

Buena Vista Social Club
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (16 September, 1997)
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Editorial Review

Ry Cooder's name has helped bring attention to this session, but it's the veteran Cuban son musicians who make this album really special. Reminiscent of Ellington in its scope and sense of hushed romanticism, Buena Vista Social Club is that rare meld of quietude and intensity; while the players sound laid-back, they're putting forth very alive music, a reminder that aging doesn't mean taking to bed. Barbarito Torres's laoud solo on "El Cuarto de Tula" is both more blinding and more tasteful than any guitar showcase on any recent rock album; a quote from "Stormy Weather" and some very distinct parallels to Hawaiian styles remind us of why it's called "world music." --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (295)

A timeless masterpiece
This CD is a true embodiment of what any music should be and feel like to listen to. I used the word feel, because when you listen to this music that is exactly what you are doing. Feeling it. The depth and intimacy of every track on this album is extraordinary, and what makes it even more worthwhile is that every artist on this album is they're playing their music because they love it. Not for monetary gains, or to produce a one hit wonder. This music is clearly in their souls; this music is quite clearly alive! Buy this album, listen to it and find yourself transported to Cuba itself. You can almost feel the heat of the night as you sit on a rickety chair, outside a small bar on a Cuban side street letting this music flow into you.

A truly magical musical experience for all.....

* I Didn't Realize I Even Liked Cuban Music *
I have never listened to Cuban music in my life until 5 yrs ago when I happened upon a PBS special with the Buena Vista Social Club.I am in love.This stuff is fabulous.What treasures these old Cuban singers are.This CD is wonderful ... makes you think you are in a little club in Havana or somewhere on a hot, humid beach in Miami ... the music literally transports you -- most music cannot do that.

I think a few of these treasures have since passed but this music will live on carrying their names on the wind forever.Wonderful music for Cuban or South Florida dreaming.Enjoy!

Its officially a staple for me!
I have had this cd since its release- and I still play it- which is a real surprise to me.Most of our music these days is so disposable- one hit wonders- sixteen bands that sound & look identical-but this cd lives on.It's a beautiful & astonishing cd.I sincerely believe its just one of those things that gets better each time I hear it. ... Read more

Asin: B000005J56
Subjects:  1. Latin    2. Tropical   

Talking Timbuktu
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (29 March, 1994)
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Editorial Review

Talking Timbuktu is a groundbreaking record that vividly illustrates the Africa-Blues connection in real time. Ali Farka Toure, one of Mali's leading singer-guitarists, has a trance-like, bluesy style that, although deeply rooted in Malian tradition, bears astonishing similarity to that of John Lee Hooker or even Canned Heat. It's a mono-chordal vamp, with repetitive song lines cut with shards of blistering solo runs that shimmer like a desert mirage. Toure may be conversant with some blues artists, but it is unlikely that artists like Hooker or Robert Pete Williams ever heard these Malian roots, which makes the connection so uncanny. Ry Cooder, well versed in domestic and world guitar styles, is the perfect counterpoint in these extended songs/jams, his sinewy slide guitar intertwining with his partner's in a super world summit without barriers or borders. --Derek Rath ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Heard "Diaraby " on The World on NPR...
Everytime, they asked the geo quiz I just simply could never concentrate on the question being asked and just simply melt away in the most romantic back ground music. Very nice!!

Simply Sensual
I first heard the track Ai Du while watching the movie Unfaithful. When I heard this song, I immediately went on a wild search looking for this music. It was like my soul yearned to hear it again. Needless to say, this song is my favorite part of the movie. The entire CD has a senusal, raw jazz/blues feel to it. Highly recommended.

Unbelievable "FeelGood" Bluesy Music of Mali - The Best
I have 6 or 7 CDs of music from Mali and find myself listening to this one most often. While I love them all --- the combination of musicians: Ali Farka Toure and Ry Cooder is unbeatable. Track #1 "Bonde" sung in Peul begins with a fantastic guitar introduction by Ali Farka Toure. Each note is drawn out just right to hook the emotions. The congas played by Oumar Toure provides an infectious rhythm. One male voice begins while a chorus responds in rhythmic unity, telling the story of why some women are unsuitable for marriage. Track #2 "Soukara" is sung in the Bambara language ... it has the sound and feeling of music from the Caribbean with a suitable ambient melody. The male vocalist pours his heart out to his lover at night, so say the liner notes. Another favorite track is #5 "Amandral" sung in the Temasheck language. The rhythms and sounds of this desert tribe is familiar. They are unforgetable on the CDs, "Festival in the Desert" and "Radio Tisdas Sessions", both of which are highly recommended. As each guitar note is plucked, the feelings of the listener are hooked. The feelings rise ... ever higher in resonance with the melody and mood expressed on the slide, acoustic and bass guitars, drums, calabash, and congas. Without exaggerating, I feel this CD contains some of the finest guitar playing on the planet. Other favorites are: #6, "Lasidan" (#6) which has a peppy, cheerful and upbeat tempo and #7, "Keito", which has musical elements of India and Pakistan or is it the Meditarranean? Ry Cooder plays the tamboura, Ali Farka Toure plucks and strums the electric guitar. There is a syncopated rhythm played on the congas and calabash. The music of Mali is highly distinct and very appealing. It is the best music from Northern Africa, and to this listener, the best from the whole continent of Africa. Erika Borsos (erikab93) ... Read more

Asin: B00000062H
Subjects:  1. Int'l & World Music    2. Pop   

On How Life Is
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (27 July, 1999)
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Editorial Review

Gray starts from a solid foundation of retro funk and soul and builds on it by adding hip-hop signifiers and modern studio techniques. The result is one of the better debuts of the year, thanks to Gray's blunt proclamations ("I've committed murder... and I don't feel bad about it") and inimitable vocal phrasing. On How Life Is offers the sass of a '20s blueswoman plus the don't-mess-with-me strength of a 21st-century R&B icon-in-the-making. --Keith Moerer ... Read more

Reviews (487)

Fresh and funky
With a voice like Billy Holidays little sister Macy introduces herself with an excellent R&B album that looks back to '70s soul with a funky vengence.About freeking time someone with a distinctive voice that doesn't sound like some cooing 14 year old came on the scene.This album is sexy but perhaps a few too many ballads to warrant a 5, but what the hell, buy it now.

Donald Duck+70s funk=Perfection (alias Macy Gray)
On her debut, Ms. Gray put together her most complete and well-presented mess yet in her career.Gray's over raspy, cartoonish voice sounds more like Donald Duck than anything else, yet she embellishes it with soul and feeling.The strange voice is the icing on Ms. Gray's bizarre cake of a personality.Yet Ms. Gray mixes her unique vocals and personality with familiar riffs and music straight out of 70's soul.On "Why didn't you don't call me" Ms. Gray soulfully groans about a one night stand and on "I try" she puts her own spin on a generic pop rock ballad.The one drawback here is too many mushy ballads where Ms. Gray's vocals lag and her playful persona is missing.The best are the sexual "Caligula" and "Sex-omatic Venus freak" where Ms. Gray giggles and brags about sex like a man.The coy girls of sex and the city, perhaps with the exception of Samantha, could learn a thing or two from Ms.Gray (she sings "I feel like an ex x rated movie star" with childish joy on "Sex-omatic").The best are "I've committed murder" where Ms. Gray sing/raps about murdering her boyfriends boss with infectious playfulness and `Do something" where she strains her voice to plead with herself to escape drugs.On "On how life is", Macy creates a unique, beautiful, funky escapade that proves that with good singing and personality the most unlikely of candidates can become leaders in the world of music.

The Arrival of an Amazing Talent
When I first heard Macy Gray, I thought she had a wonderfully unique voice. I first heard her in the 1997 movie Picture Perfect. "I Try" was playing in the background towards the end, and for some reason the song stood out. Two years later, I heard "Do Something" and thought it was good, but it wasn't until "I Try" became such a big hit that I remembered who she was. I bought the CD and let me tell you, it is a fantastic album. She sounds as if she's been doing this for years, yet it is only her first CD!

1)Why Didn't You Call Me- a good album opener. It's refreshing to hear an R&B album that uses real instruments.
2)Do Something- a really good song. It really does make you think about what you should do with your life.
3)Caligula- the first raunchy song. She sounds as if she enjoys sex, rather than just singing about it to get attention.
4)I Try- it's no surprise this was such a big hit. Most artists can only dream of having a song this good on their first album.

5)Sex-o-matic Venus Freak- this song is really dirty. It should have been a single. It's one of the best songs on the album
6)I Can't Wait to Meetchu- a really terrific song. It's a very spiritual song that will make you feel good even if you're not a very spiritual person.
7)Still- another great song. She really nails this song and the emotion behind it.
8)I've Committed Murder- a very strange song. It tells a story that you don't hear in music everyday. Very unique.
9)A Moment to Myself- another really good song. It talks about being happy with who you are, and who can complain about that?
10)The Letter- a song about suicide. She's able to pull it off because she is so good at singing about taboo subjects. On some level, it sounds like she's leaving behind the days when she wasn't happy and wasn't doing what she loved to do.

This is a very good CD. I highly recommend it for those who like artists that aren't afraid to take chances. It's also one of those albums that deserved to sell millions and ended up doing just that. ... Read more

Asin: B00000JQFG
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. R&B   

The Joshua Tree
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (15 June, 1990)
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Editorial Review

Having nearly exhausted their capacity for pop-song politics on War and The Unforgettable Fire, U2 turned toward themes of personal identity and complex relationships on The Joshua Tree. Not that the group was willing to come down off the barricades entirely: "Mothers of the Disappeared" and "Bullet the Blue Sky" turned a jaundiced eye toward Central America and the United States' role there. But the predominant mood here is one of self-discovery and the hunger for something more on tracks like the pulsating "Where the Streets Have No Name" and the gospel-ish "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For." The album's masterstroke, however, is "With or Without You," a nasty love song dressed up as an ode of devotion and care. It ranks with the Police's "Every Breath You Take" as the most misread smash hit of the '80s. --Daniel Durchholz ... Read more

Reviews (366)

You can't go wrong with this one.
Simply put, this is one of the best rock LP's of all time.It's songs are both brilliant and timeless.Bono hits his peak with lyrics while The Edge really starts to show his diversity.This recording is one of the reasons why U2 is still alive and kicking today.Great works like this only come along once in a while.For even the casual U2 fan this is a no brainer.I like to call this U2's "Revolver".It's where the early U2 sound starts to evolve from the same old thing....and for a real treat check out U2's "Sgt Pepper" "Actung Baby".

U2's second best album!
This is full of sh** and garbage! Why make this kind of bad music? Led Zeppelin is great, this band is just full of sh**! Just like Radiohead!

U2's best work
This band isn't overrated, it isn't boring, and so what if its mainstream. It seemes that having a good rock cd means you have to be extremely alternative or today's standards, have a bunch of screaming wannabe- anarchist. A lot of Rock people don't like this album because like their other albums they sing with meaning, which new music seems to lack.
If you listen to this cd you will know that there are other songs besides the first three tracks (yet the first three are the best). There is Bullet The Blue Sky which is a cool, loud but medium-paced song. It talks about America, but it is kind of hard to tell if they're hazing us, praisin g us, or both. I like the part where Bono starts talking about a guy slapping twenty dollar bills down.
In God's Country is also a very good song.Not as flashy as the first, phenominal tracks, it is worth listening.Also, One Tree Hill is yet another good song. These songs play like poetrybecause Bono's Lyrics writing was at its best here.A reason for U2's success during the 80's was that they were skilled at making such inspirational lyrics.
The Mothers of The Dissapeared is a great ending song with an obvious political message.
[The First Three tracks- Where The Streets Have No Name, I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For, and With or Without You were not mentioned earlier because Iwant people to know there are more songs]WTSHNN is a wonderful opening track with a symphony backing U2 up. The other two songs are love songs (no, notextremely slow acostic guitar songs).
If you have an open-mind buy this cd. If you like punk rock don't bother. If you like Jimi, maybe, U2 used him playing the star spangled banner in Rattle and Hum. He is also another one of my favorite.If you think U2's quality is that of Britney Spears, then that's just weird. ... Read more

Asin: B000001FS3
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Live! Simply the Best
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 July, 1991)
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Features

• Live

Reviews (3)

OUR HOMETOWN GIRL
Irma's rendition of "It's Raining" is worth the price of the entire CD.I've always liked her friendly, smoky voice and the selection of songs is pretty good too, especially the aforementioned "It's Raining" and the too-funny "You Can Have My Husband (But Please Don't Take My Man)."

Huge disappointment.
Lousy sound quality.Irma has strained her voice beyond recognition.Irma should give her voice a rest and recover her famous timbre.Musically Irma is wonderful, but she is going the way of Maria Callas.

Irma Thomas is an underappreciated treasure
If you do not know Irma, then choose this live set to get acquainted. This is one of the best live performances I've ever heard on a recording; she smokes, sparkles and stuns the listener into giving it up and havingagood time. Just listen. Only Aretha and Irma are the real Soul Queens. ... Read more

Asin: B0000002ZC
Sales Rank: 68700
Subjects:  1. New Orleans R&B    2. Pop    3. R&B    4. Soul   

London Calling
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 January, 2000)
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Editorial Review

Bursting at the seams with creative energy, the Clash's stunning 1979 double album more than made up for the artistic and commercial disappointment of its predecessor, 1978's tried-too-hard Give 'Em Enough Rope. With ex-Mott the Hoople producer Guy Stevens harnessing their sound as never before, the band yielded what proved to be the best work of their career. Bouncing from hard rock (the apocalyptic vision of the title track) to rockabilly ("Brand New Cadillac") to reggae ("Rudy Can't Fail") topop (the Top 40 hit "Train in Vain"), the Clash knocked down all musical walls and, in the process, ended the argument over punk's viability in the U.S. --Billy Altman ... Read more

Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (350)

The Only Album That Matters
London Calling is a punk masterpiece, second to none.Effortlessly shifting styles and painting one memorable tale after another, it has a number of influences and style and wit to burn.

The majority of the songs are immediately accessible, although a few, such as "The Right Profile" take a while to grow on you.Each song on the album has its own merits, and they're consistently innovative and enjoyable.They also each have meaning, whether it be to skewer fascism ("Clampdown") or greedy corporate suits ("Koka Kola") or simply to tell stories of assorted gamblers, losers and drug addicts ("Wrong 'Em Boyo", "The Card Cheat", "Hateful").They all have interest, and they all sound great.

The major problem with the album, and indeed with The Clash in general, is still Joe Strummer's pronunciation.He's a rock legend, and as a singer isn't too shabby.But it's very, very difficult to understand more than half of what he's singing at any given time without having printed lyrics handy.

All in all, that's a minor complaint in an album as excellent as this one is.It's sure to satisfy near any music lover, even if they aren't a punk fan.

Amazing album from Strummer and company.
I really love this album. I got into the Clash because a former friend of mine is a Clash fan. Strummer and Jones are amazing, gifted and talented. RIP Joe Strummer. Paul Simonon's Guns of Brixton was stuck in my head for days. I am truly a Clash fan now. I got the album for Christmas and I've been listening to it since. I heard that their other albums weren't as good. Eventually I will get some more Clash albums.

One of the best
The Clash is one of the best punk bands from the older days. ... Read more

Asin: B00004BZ0N
Subjects:  1. Britain    2. British Punk    3. England    4. Hard Rock    5. New Wave    6. Pop    7. Punk    8. Punk/New Wave    9. Rock    10. Rock & Roll