Exodus
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (31 May, 1990)
list price: $17.98
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Editorial Review

In 1999 Exodus was rightfully voted by Time Magazine the most important album of the 20th century. This is the visionary Bob Marley's masterpiece, a concept album that distills the myriad experiences of both our daily lives and collective unconsciousness into 46 minutes of aural perfection.

The CD release of Exodus has been flawlessly remastered from the original recordings and showcases what is probably the Wailers' tightest recorded performance. The initial notes of the album's opening track, "Natural Mystic," fade up from a deep silence, giving the listener the impression that the music generates from within a continuum of the past, present, and future. The first half of Exodus bears witness to Marley's shift in focus away from the mundane problems of Babylon existence and toward a greater understanding of vital universal truths. The second half features songs like "Jamming" and "Waiting in Vain," which take a gently wistful look at the more interpersonal aspect of human relations. --Rebecca Levine ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Exodus Rocks
Exodus is Bob's greatest album. It was after this point where he became the Legend that we know him to be. It was almost unfair for Bob to start off with Natural Mystic on the album; the song is almost too good. The first few almost silent chords are the first indication of what await us. What I like about the album the most is the different mix of beats and rhythms. They range from the smooth easy listening of Turn Your Lights Down Low to the hard one drop roots rhythm of Exodus. Exodus really introduced Bob Marley and the Wailers to the world because it had messages that people from all parts of the earth could relate to. It was post 1977 that the Wailers embarked on their legendary world tours in 1978, 1979, and 1980. They went to places as far Tokyo, New Zealand, and filledstadiums with 100,000 people in Milan, Italy and Berlin, Germany. The album set new standards for reggae by being one of the first reggae albums to become more mainstream and less focused on the trials and tribulations awaiting the Rastaman In Babylon. My favorite song on this album is...too hard a choice.

Bob Marleys true masterpiece
Really this album is definitive Bob Marley.Legend has assumed the mantle of being Bob's best album, yet it does not include " Roots,Rock,Reggae " which remains his only US top ten hit (No6).So-called connoiseurs fail to realise that " Buffalo Soldier" was a hit posthumously for Bob, buthe didn't think it was good enough to put on a album when he was alive.Exodus turned Bob into a superstar although the US did not catch on till the release of Legend.Exodus contains everything, militancy, prophecy,romanticism,righteous education and more." Catch a Fire " is classic reggae, Exodus is classic Bob.

The album that nearly didn't happen
What motivated Bob Marley to write some of his best lyrics, with strong spiritual content, messages of biblical condemnation for the wicked and biting criticism of the system and it's defenders? A complete album, some of his best work ever, and in contrast to earlier albums where there were always a few redone songs from his ska and rocksteady days, Exodus was mostly all new songs. Here you have an excellent mix - strong roots reggae rhythms on 'Natural Mystic' a Rasta grounation chant 'Heathen', a lighter dance tune 'Jammin', melodies such as 'One Love' and 'Three Little Birds' and two tracks that show Bob could have sung R&B, soul, love songs namely 'Waiting in Vain' and 'Turn your lights down low'. The title track was unique. Never before had there been a reggae song sounding like it, (funky world beat) nor had a reggae song ever been so long - over 7 minutes, most were short, to the point 3-4 minute jobs. The album built on what had been achieved with the previous album - penetration of the US market, but significantly here 'Exodus' was the first Wailer tune to get extensive airplay on African-American radio. What was the creative force behind all of this? We know that ganja and scripture reading was the fuel for some of Bob's words of wisdom but this album (specifically the first 4 tracks) were forged in direct response to one specific incident that happened to him in late 1976.

Bob, Rita and the bands manager were at Bob's yard two nights before the 'Smile Jamaica' concert scheduled for December 5. The concert, featuring the Wailers, was to be held at the National Heroes Park in Kingston. It was conceived by Bob himself as a means of getting peoples minds off politics, which was the all consuming force in the Island at that time, with a general election coming up on December 16. Gunmen burst into the Marley house firing shots, all three were hit, Bob's manager five times, a shot grazed Bob's chest and hit his arm and Rita had one graze her skull. Who did it and for what reason was never known as the gunmen were not identified nor caught. Politics was suspected. Although the Wailers were not supporters of party politics they could hardly be called apolitical as their criticisms of the system, inequality, injustices and oppression had always been central to their message. It's just that it was the strongest in the previous album. If that is what it was all about, rather than be subdued, Bob was stirred up and 'Exodus' was his creative response fueled by righteous rastafari anger. Bob himself says so in a line from 'Jammin' - 'No bullet can stop us now'. All in all an album of excellent musical expression. ... Read more

Asin: B000001FY5
Subjects:  1. Caribbean    2. Leader    3. Political Reggae    4. Pop    5. Reggae    6. Rocksteady    7. Roots Reggae    8. Ska   

Graceland
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (22 April, 1997)
list price: $18.98
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Editorial Review

The melding of South African styles and Simon's trademark sensibility made for one of the most intriguing albums--not to mention commercial hits--of the '80s. At once lively, thoughtful, gorgeous, and tough, Graceland acknowledges splits both in South Africa's social fabric and in Simon's personal life (the title track is a clear descendant of the earlier "Hearts and Bones," a song about the singer-songwriter's brief marriage to Carrie Fisher). Humor is hardly absent from the mix, though; witness the addled "I Know What I Know" and the fable-like "You Can Call Me Al." --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Features

• Enhanced

Reviews (149)

always refreshing
Maybe its just nostalgia or something because my dad used to play this a lot when I was growing up (my bros and I were fascinated by the clear cassette tape), but this album is still refreshing and good even though I'm young enough that I can't remember I time I'd not heard this album.
I hope this album finds plenty of fans among my generation as well.

If you buy only one 'Paul Simon' Album.......
Paul Simon has been at the forefront of music, for as long as most of us can remember.with a career dating back as far as the 1950's, and having already established himself with the seminal work, as the 'Simon & Garfunkel' duo.It wouldn't have been unreasonable to think that his solo work, would have paled in comparsion.Yet after a steady stream of steadily more accomplished solo albums, it wasn't until this his 9th studio album (Released in 1986), that he hit his creative peak, with his "Graceland" album.An album that so beautifully (and some would argue 'Seamless'), fuses: Singer/Songwriter, Worldbeat, Contemporary Pop/Rock, African hymnal songs, and presented in such a largely accessible way, that it became one of the first 'World' music (or certainly 'World influenced albums), that was a huge hit in the west.

It's not hard to see why this album was so easily accepted by the western music buying public.With an elite cast of musicians that would eclipse most festivals, these were either musicians that were already huge on the musical circuit, or due to become big after having a hand in this recording...so people such as:Linda Ronstadt (Vocals), Ladysmith Black Mambazo (Vocals), Youssou N'Dour (Percussion), Los Lobos' - Cesar Rosas (Vocals, Guitar), all contributed to the construction of this album, and their performances are beautifully captured (especially Ladysmith Black Mambazo, backing vocals, on some tracks) and remains a remarkably powerful album.Possibly because the album covers so many bases.(Possibly in an effort to appeal to as wide an audience as possible).And so it proved to be as eclectic a record as Paul Simon ever recorded.So you have the sublime Adult-orientated rock ("The Boy in the Bubble"), Poetic, articulate singer/songwriter tracks, for those seeking something a little more substantial ("Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes").The glorious and irresistible catchy pop, of the hit single ("You Can Call Me Al"), torch-bearing hymnal African harmonies, ushering in broadly accessible world music ("Homeless").

What is hugely impressive here, is the fact that each track is truly deserving of inclusion on this marvellous release, nothing on this album feels like it was included to fill out the album, and it's shift through various moods of being Exuberant, Poignant, Reflective, organic, and spiritual & Consistent remain unquestionably impressive.In fact it was such a perfectly realised album, that when taken as an album whole, it all comes together to combine into making this one of the greatest albums released in the 80's.For those that aren't huge fans of Paul Simon, but do appreciate his work, I (very) strongly urge you to pick this album up even if you only have a passing interest in his music.This album not only helped open up the floodgates to Western ears appreciating (accepting??) World Music, but also remains his creative high point (both musically & Artistically)....you'll be surprised at just how well this album, has stood the test of time, with it still sounding as vital as it did back then (obviously, not as political important, as this was released around the Apartheid days), but few could argue it's cross cultural musical experiments, and become the album for which other culturally fused music was judged against.

This is the greatest album of all time
There is nothing else to say; Graceland is not only Paul Simon's greatest cd, but I believe is the # 1 greatest album of all time. I think it should be before Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart's Club Band and Pet Sounds. Graceland is absolutely amazing, with the integration of African rhythms, and Paul Simon's amazing songwriting- I only wish he would go back to Africa to make some more songs ... Read more

Asin: B000002NBY
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. Rock    5. Singer/Songwriter    6. Soft Rock    7. United States of America    8. Worldbeat   

20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of Toots & The Maytals
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 August, 2001)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $11.98
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Reviews (5)

Good CD, good price!
In case you don't already know it, Toots and the Maytals are one of the best bands in the world. Their concerts are spiritual experiences and much of their recorded output is some of the most soulful and listenable music you'll ever hear. If you're new to Toot's music, this CD is a good place to begin. It has most of the essential Toot's songs (greatest hits). If you are a hardcore fan like me, it leaves you wanting a little more. I feel this disc would be nearly perfect if "Dreams To Remember" was left off and "Never You Change" and "True Love Is Hard To Find" were included. Aside from the early classics, the producers of this disc had the good taste to include "Freedom Train" from the "Toots In Memphis" album. Toot's version of this tune is so powerful and well-recorded. I definitely recommend this CD to anyone who enjoys cookin' soulful music.

Fun Album
Before I bought this album, I hardly knew anything about reggae music. I heard the song "Funky Kingston" performed on Saturday Night Live with Toots (and the Maytals), Roots, and Boots(as in Bootsy Collins). I wanted to know more about these guys, Toots and the Maytals.

When I popped this disc in my player, I immediately knew it was different from anything in my collection. I typically listen to artists like U2, R.E.M., and Coldplay. But this album is so funky, so lively, and so much fun. My favorites are the first two tracks, the aforementioned "Funky Kingston" and the reggae cover of John Denver, "Take Me Home, Country Roads." Get this album and open yourself up to another world of music.

Reggae got soul, got so much soul!
so...your lookin for something to pop into your stereo and dance to..definetly put it in this! this cd is one of my favorite Toots and the Maytals. seeing them live in Philadelphia was the best show i have ever been to! best of TATM definetly has that funky beat to get your feet movin! starts off with Funky Kingston, one of my favs, and keeps on goin through 54-46 Was My Number and finally ending with another personal favorite, Freedom Train. through this cd, you will hear my absolute 2 favorite Toots and the Maytals songs, Pressure Drop and Reggae Got Soul. truly amazing. now click "add to shopping cart" already if you want to get your groove on! ... Read more

Asin: B00005N8Z6
Sales Rank: 12593
Subjects:  1. Jamaica    2. Pop    3. Reggae    4. Rocksteady    5. Ska   

Dark Side of the Moon
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $13.49
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Editorial Review

Dark Side of the Moon, originally released in 1973, is one of those albums that is discovered anew by each generation of rock listeners. This complex, often psychedelic music works very well because Pink Floyd doesn't rush anything; the songs are mainly slow to mid-tempo, with attention paid throughout to musical texture and mood. The sound effects on songs like "On the Run," "Time" and especially "Money" (with sampled sounds of clinking coins and cash registers turned into rhythmic accompaniment) are impressive, especially when we remember that 1973 was before the advent of digital recording techniques. This is probably Pink Floyd's best-known work, and it's an excellent place to start if you're new to the band. --Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (1094)

Innovative, creative, and just amazing
Dark Side of the Moon is certainly not Pink Floyd's best album, yet every album is fabulous; I prefer Meddle, Piper At the Gates of Dawn, and Saucerful of Secrets over DSOTM.Still, I had to write a review to dispell some of the lower ratings this album has recieved.

First off, none of the four members did any drugs outside of alcohol and cigarettes.Syd Barrett was the only illicit drug addict in the band, and they dumped him years before this album was recorded.Also, it really shouldn't matter.Piper At the Gates of Dawn, as well as Barrett's solo work, is fabulous stuff.

Second, every song on this album is great.It is a concept album, as most of the Floyd albums are.Actually, Pink Floyd essentially created the concept album, with artists such as The Who and David Bowie following suit.The music and lyrics are true genius, the performance clean and emotional, and the timing impeccable.

Lastly, the experimentation with electronically produced sounds and music on this album is not only magnificent, but helped pave the way for electronic music of all types, from disco to funk to house to breakbeats etc etc.

Pink Floyd were innovators that are merely misunderstood by many.Any true music lover will at least recognize the contributions made by this band and their influence on countless bands and producers today.

Well, someone really has to say it...
Pink Floyd, in my opinion, is a great band. However, I must say that I despise listening to them more than maybe once a month on the radio. I honestly find their music to be EXTREMELY BORING if you try to listen to more than one song in a sitting. I mean, Don't get me wrong, they're GREAT musicians and I respect them a lot, but I just find myself being bored beyond belief whenever I try to listen to them. This album, which is said to be the best album ever recorded by some, I find terribly boring. I tried to listen to it the other day and ended up getting SO bored that I turned it off. Also, I am a VERY big prog fan. I do not see this band as being Prog in any way whatsoever. I mean, yeah, they're good and unique musicians, but I don't think they're prog in any way whatsoever. I mean, it's great music, and they're a great band, but you have to really like it, or else you'll get bored with it.

30 years later still a classic
the dark side of the music is plain and simple words the greatest album ever.music does not get any better.this brilliant album contains classics like time,money and us and them which have aged well with time.very very highly recommended. ... Read more

Asin: B000002U82
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Battle of Los Angeles
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (02 November, 1999)
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Editorial Review

Having successfully fused music and politics from their start, inspiring both moshing and young minds in the process, Rage Against the Machine emerges in peak form with merely their third album in seven years. Guitarist Tom Morello is one of the most distinctive and innovative players of his era, and his foil, vocalist/lyricist Zack De La Rocha, is as unrelenting and inspiring as ever on The Battle of Los Angeles. Rage, whose past antics include performing naked with duct tape over their mouths to protest censorship, released Battle on Election Day, but the politics of the group can be separated from the sounds. Indeed, the 45 minutes of mayhem heard here can be enjoyed solely as rousing aggro hip-hop rock. There's more variety found on Battle than on its predecessors, however. "Sleep Now in the Fire" is one of their most straight-ahead rock tunes. The trippy guitar on "Calm Like a Bomb" is out there even for the adventurous Morello. And "Born a Broken Man" serves up lovely musical interludes. Overall, the more finely honed Rage heard on Battle may not inspire a generation of young revolutionaries, but they still stir up more mutinous spirit than the rest of the current rock pack. --Katherine Turman ... Read more

Reviews (586)

Not their best work, but still worth it
"The Battle of Los Angeles" was the last album that RATM made with original songs. Although it's not as strong as "Evil Empire" and the unforgetable debut (self-titled) way back from 1992, it's still got that catchy groove, aggressive bite, and angry poetry from Zack's notebook. Not the best album to start on if you're looking into getting to know Rage (start with Evil Empire), but once you get what they're all about, you'll find yourself getting this one soon.

Possibly the last real epic rock album
Rage Against the Machine had a hell of a career, if a bit too brief.Their debut was brilliant, but I find Battle of LA to be the band's most distinct and impressive work.Nearly every song on this album is memorable and stands out in its own way, and the songs have a larger-than-life quality and sense of authority that most heavy music lacks today.

The sounds and dynamics of 'Battle' are crunchy and in-your-face, and give the album that epic feel.Even with the shorter tracks, the band never slacks off; the sounds on this album are creative and original and never fail to entertain.RATM was always a band with a political message, but they knew how to have fun with it and make it entertaining and energetic.Born of a Broken man, my favorite song on the album and one of my personal all-time favorite songs in general, is especially heavy and driving, not to mention atmospheric and beautiful.

Fans of metal love to bash RATM mainly because of Tom Morello and his refusal to sound like every other guitarist out there.To you people: get lost (to put it lightly).A virtuoso guitarist is not one who shreds the fastest, he is one who knows his own music well and creates a dynamic sound that makes the songs work.For example, Dave Mustaine is one of my favorite guitarists out there, and he's fast and very technical, but he still could not replicate Morello's sound, riffs, or solos.Only Morello can.

As for the people bashing RATM for their political stance: politics and music go hand-in-hand.Always have, always will.And I'm sure Morello has more of a right to talk politics than most politicians do.

Overall Battle of Los Angeles is nothing short a masterpiece.As the title says, I consider this to be one of the last true epics of rock.And for the rock/metal elitists who whine about this not being "real rock" or "real metal" for its rap and techno influences, think again.This is creative metal set to groove and rhythm, and it rules.

their most darkly powerful release
I think that this is RATM's strongest effort based on their message.it is not quite as funky or mindbending as their previous two cd's, but the message they are trying to bring across is extremely clear and poignant.this one is extremely dark, and zach d has a more focused perspective in his lyrics, instead of just the same old ranting from Evil Empire.they have really branched out their artistry on this one, and if their career hadn't been cut short, this proves that they would have continued to inspire and amaze.Many fans only like the first two cd's, and refuse to acknowledge the importance of this one or Renegades.Battle of LA is a little more rough around the edges and experimental then the first two, but songs like "Calm Like a Bomb" and "New Millenium Homes" show that Rage still had the power.

This was my introduction to the group, and I was blown away by the intensity of the music.I have never heard another group that was so focused on social and political issues, and it had never before occured to me that you could do that in music.This cd has stood up to years of repeat listening, and is definitely deserving of a place in your collection if you like Rage.You shouldn't worry about getting it if you are a new fan; in my view the band hasn't released a single mediocre cd.But most people recommend beginning with the self titled cd of theirs, and I am going to recommend getting that one before you get this.On all accounts don't overlook this cd. ... Read more

Asin: B00002MZ2C
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Electric Ladyland
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (22 April, 1997)
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Editorial Review

Bursting with ideas and energy, Jimi Hendrix's second album release of 1968 (following Axis: Bold as Love) was a double-LP set that showcased virtually everything the guitar genius had to offer: blistering blues ("Voodoo Chile"), galaxy-patrolling space jams ("1983... A Merman I Should Turn to Be"), psychedelic soul ("Crosstown Traffic"), and skyscraping rock ("Voodoo Child (Slight Return)"). In the midst of all this was even a hit song--Hendrix's remarkable reading of Bob Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower," featuring a series of baton-passing guitar solos, all distinct and brilliant. Seemingly diffuse when first released; in hindsight, kaleidoscopically eclectic. --Billy Altman ... Read more

Reviews (199)

This is the masterpiece of masterpieces
Hendrix had few (if any) equals.This was his third official album, and it is quite simply one of the greatest works of art of the last 40 years.If you have little exposure to Hendrix and want to start with material that will dazzle you, move you, thrill you, etc. this is the place to start.

The most noteworthy tracks are in my opinion - Voodoo Chile, Rainy Day Dream Away, 1983 (A merman I should turn to be), Moon turn the tides ...gently gently away, All Along the Watchtower, Burning of the Midnight Lamp, Voodoo Child (slight return), and the title cut Electric Ladyland.

There was a period in my life (1991) where I basically listened to nothing but this album for about 6 months.I still go back to it often and experience the same sense of awe that I had when I first heard it.Despite the fact that I can anticipate every subtlety, I still gape at the beauty every time.May it be so for you as well...Jimi we miss you.

Highly Recommended Hendrix!
"Electric Ladyland", the last Jimi Hendrix Experience album, is usually regarded as the trio's definite masterpiece; and the record do contain some of the greatest and most influental music to come out of the late 1960's. I can't help feeling that Hendrix'use of harmony vocals must have influenced artists like T.Rex, David Bowie and Mott the Hoople. Hendrix' guitar-playing is innovative, and at the same time catchy and melodic. There are many highlights on the album; the best known track on the album is probably their terrific cover of Bob Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower" - the ultimate version of that song, which also made it to the top 20 singles-charts. Songs like "Burning of the Midnight Lamp" and "Voodoo Chile" were also single-hits. The intro of "Burning of the Midnight Lamp" is simply great.

Released in 1968 as a double album, the record contains some tracks with extensive playing time. Some of these may appear somewhat too long-drawn-out.

For me the long version of "Voodoo Chile" and "1983" are examples of this.

On the original vinyl version I never really got into "Side C"; so here on the CD version it's nice to be able to hear the tracks in new playing orders. I can recommend to trythe shuffle/random feature. This made recognize the qualities of the more experimental tracks like "Rainy Day" and "1983".

Conclusion: This album is highly recommended for anyone interested in the history of rock music.
 
 

Flawed but great anyway: Hendrix's "Sgt. Pepper"
Much of this album was made on (the then-new technology) 8 track, 12 track and even 16 track machines for the first time..giving Jimi the space to do more with his artistic vision. He's able to layer phased echo effects over the music, overdub replacements for Noel Redding's bass parts when he didn't think they had enough fire, and make mini-"choirs" of his own vocals. It's the first time he acts as his own producer and it becomes at once an advantage (he'll keep going until he gets the sound he wants) and a liability (artists seldom have the discipline to realize when a "jam" runs too long..resulting in the 15 minute "Voodoo Chile". The song should ALWAYS come first, rather than "look at what I can do!" guitar pyrotechnics, economy is always better...put only the parts there that NEED to be there.)

This also was a double album and, as with most of them, there's plenty of filler material. Coming as it did in the wake of the Beatles "Sgt. Pepper", it's easy to view this as Hendrix's artistic reaction to that landmark album.

HIGHLIGHTS:
Kazoo and guitar propel the classic "Crosstown Traffic", a fluid funky bass riff keeps "Gypsy Eyes" on track, the "guitar as harpsichord" tone Hendrix gets on "Burning of the Midnight Lamp" makes it seem like something that slipped through a hole in time. "House Burning Down" is either Jimi's generic reaction to riots..or perhaps inspired by the ones that happened in Newark, NJ in July of 1967. ("Well someone stepped from the crowd/He was 19 miles high/He shouts 'We're tired and disgusted, so we paint red through the sky'/I say 'The truth is straight ahead, so don't burn yourself! Instead, try to learn instead of burn'")"All Along the Watchtower" is absolutely amazing and clearly one of the best rock songs ever performed. It travels from strength to strength culminating in the ecstasy of its bridge at 2:00 that incorporates doubletracking, wah-wah effects, panning, and finally some propulsive rhythm work to take it back to the verse. It's not difficult to see why Dylan began to model his own song on Hendrix's version in live performances after this rendition was unleashed upon the world. The shorter "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)" distills its mythos into just over 5 minutes and is all the stronger for it.

LOWS:
"Voodoo Chile" continues on long past the point at which it's still interesting. While the seagull and boat bell effects of "1983..(A Merman I Should Turn to Be)" are startling, Hendrix seems bent on making this track merely to show how many effects he can create and use within the track and it sinks it. The repetitive echoed and slowing down vocal is cool once, but after about 5 usages it loses something.

BOTTOM LINE:
There's too many weak spots for me to consider this "5 star" material ["Are you Experienced?" gets that nod...clearly a better collection of songs..] but it's nonetheless a high water mark in rock music and as such should be owned by anyone with an interest in rock music and certainly any Hendrix fan. To get more out of the album, I'd suggest you read a companion book from John Perry along with it (ASIN 0826415717) to get a better gauge of where Jimi's head was at while this was being recorded. I will gripe a bit about noise on the CD..there's a TON of hiss on opener "....And the Gods made love" (probably from the extensive overdubbing that was done) but it's not as noticeable on most other tracks. ... Read more

Asin: B000002P5U
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

The Chronic
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (22 May, 2001)
list price: $17.98 -- our price: $13.99
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Editorial Review

1989's Straight Outta Compton, by Dre's previous outfit N.W.A., may have shined the public spotlight on the genre, but The Chronic legitimized it. That is not to say that Snoop Doggy Dogg (The Chronic marks his debut) and Dre's raps are for everyone; the subject matter is the sex, drugs, violence, and politics of South Central Los Angeles, and the phrasing is explicit, to say the least. But The Chronic's real genius is the music. By breeding hip-hop, jazz (studio instrumentation includes saxophones and flutes), funk, and soul (sampled artists include Parliament, Donny Hathaway, and Isaac Hayes), Dre creates downright intoxicating grooves. If you can't feel The Chronic pulsating through your veins, maybe your heart's not pumping. --Bill Crandall ... Read more

Features

• Enhanced
• Explicit Lyrics
• Original recording remastered

Reviews (131)

Best Album Eva Made
Dr.dres 1st album is crazzyy nothin can beat this album practiclly every song on here is hott nuff said

Review:

The Chronic - N/A
F*** Wit Dre Day - 10/10
Let Me Ride - 10/10
The Day The N****z Took Over - 10/10
Nuthin But A G Thang - 10/10
Deeez Nuuts - 10/10
Lil Ghetto Boy - 8/10
A N**** Witta Gun - 9/10
Rat Tat Tat Tat - 10/10
The $20 Sack Pyramid - N/A
Lyrical Gangabng - 10/10
High Powered - N/A
The Doctors Office - N/A
Stranded In Death Row - 9/10
The Roach - 9/10
B****es Aint S*** - 10/10

Best Rap Album
I'm from the east coast but I think this album is one of the top 3 albums of all time.Wit Dre Day is a classic dis record and Ain't Nuthin But A G Thang will have you rocking in your car all day.This is album is the definition of a perfect album.Wit Dre doing all the beats.Having all of Death Row rhymin on here.And Interludes that make you laugh this album is the complete package.You cant say that you're a hip hop fan without this album.If you don't have this album you're a wannabe hip hopper.

A Must
We don't realize that the events that happen in the present are history.

This album is classic, historical and one of the greatest hip hop/ rap albums ever. This was in the early 90s when if you really think about it, rap was still new. It was in its prime. We had Dr. Dre and Snoop running the industry. This is when west coast music was felt all over the U.S.

This was before all that so-called "east-west coast beef". This is another historical hip hop album. This album laid the ground work. Classic album. Must have for collectors. ... Read more

Asin: B00005AQEQ
Subjects:  1. G-Funk    2. Gangsta Rap    3. Jazz    4. Pop    5. Rap    6. Rap & Hip-Hop    7. United States of America    8. West Coast Rap   

The Will to Live
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (17 June, 1997)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $10.99
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Editorial Review

At 28 years intense, Harper released his third album, a mixture of R&B, deep blues, folk-rock, even topical singer-songwriter work (the deliberate, bluesy "Homeless Child"). Harper's voice and style marry the funk-blues of Taj Mahal and the eccentric, electric Dylan. Those weaned on his more commercially successful peers Hootie and the Blowfish and the Wallflowers will find that Harper is a revelation. At its best, The Will to Live is an eclectic and imaginative statement. --Roy Kasten ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Marvelous
Execellent album. Ben Harper incorporates many different styles of music and does it well. Overall the album is fairly spiritual in content without being over the top.I cant tell you how much I love this album. In the top 20 of albums from the Nineties.

one of the best rock albums of the 90s
First question. Why is it that whenever someone mentions Ben Harper the next person's name that comes up is Lenny Kravitz? Their music is not that similar. Obviously the similarity between them is that they are the most popular African American rock musicians of the 90s. I hate this because it suggests a sense of racism by immediately pinning them against each other and making comparisons. They are two entirely different musicians, though both great in their own right. They are not the first African American rockers, for rock was invented by Chuck Berry and mastered by Jimi Hendrix. Not only that but there were other influencial and revolutionary African American rockers since then, for example, Bad Brains, Fishbone, etc.

Anyway, "The Will to Live" is an excellent album. Popular hard rock is not the forte here, nor is funked out rock. What Harper does is incorporate many genres into his mix, including blues, roots reggae, rock, folk, and grunge. The excellent strings, such as in "Roses from my Friends", suggest classical influences as well. This album pays no regard to boundaries and does it well throughout the album. All in all a work of art.

soulful & moving
An album which expresses Harper's traditional genuflection to spirituality and concern for the less-than-fortunate.With "Homeless Child" and "Widow of a Living Man" (one of my favorite songs by him), Harper exhibits once again his uncanny ability of peering into the world of the downtrodden and revealing its anguish w/grace.While perhaps his most melancholy release, it's beautifully orchestrated, and like the majority of his work, it's an album that, thematically, speaks to those who are ahead of the status quo. ... Read more

Asin: B000000WE3
Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Jam Bands    3. Pop    4. Rock    5. Singer/Songwriter   

American Beauty [Bonus Tracks]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 February, 2003)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $10.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (33)

Garcia-Hunter's moment
"American Beauty" is a testament to what the Grateful Dead were capable of if they put their minds to making great music.

The Garcia-Hunter songwriting team hits its stride with this album.Over about a three-year period from 1969-72, those two fellows wrote all the songs on this album, "Workingman's Dead" (which includes "Uncle John's Band," "Casey Jones," and "Cumberland Blues") the non-covers on the live "Grateful Dead" (i.e. "Bertha," "Wharf Rat") and "Europe '72 (i.e. "He's Gone," "Tennessee Jed," "Ramble On Rose," "Brown-eyed Woman."), and "Wake of the Flood" ("Here Comes Sunshine," "Mississippi Half Step Toodle-ooo"). That's quite an output!After that, they slowed down considerably, and the band made itself a lengthy career performing sets all over the world for 20 more years, sets that largely consisted of songs from this period.

This album is the best of them all, because the Dead put their heart into making this recording.It is a close, intimate record, with only one real rock song, lots of acoustic guitar, Garcia's magnificent pedal steel, and David Grisman mandolin, and harmony singing that is fully the equal of CSNY, the Band or Simon & Garfunkel on songs like "Attics of My Life" and "Brokedown Palace."Phil Lesh is brilliant on this album; he is the glue that gives this album its subtle swing and sonic thickness.

We can't ask our favorite artists to always be peaking.Not every album can be "Pet Sounds" or "Sticky Fingers," not even if their creators are geniuses.So it goes--the Dead never equalled "American Beauty," and it's hard to understand why not. But at least we have this, and it's a musical miracle that will always sound fresh.

good god am i glad he's dead
now only if all of this band's fans could follow his example. this band is, without a doubt, one of the most worthless bands in the history of rock n roll. the fact that people compare and associate them with bob dylan is disgusting. dylan stood for something, these guys stood for nothing, other than having an ice cream named after your horrible lead singer. robert crumb once said "people thought i was part of the grateful dead crowd, but i hate that music."

there's a reason that man's a genius.

Grateful Dead Rule!
The Dead have many amazing CDs and songs and this CD completely masters the essence of "Deadness."From Box of Rain to Truckin' every tune on this CD completely rocks my socks!Buy it now! ... Read more

Asin: B00007LTIL
Sales Rank: 915
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Country-Rock    3. Folk-Rock    4. Jam Bands    5. Pop    6. Rock    7. United States of America   

What's Going On
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $9.98
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Editorial Review

Sly & The Family Stone might have psychedelicized soul music, but Marvin Gaye personalized it. Although the powers-that-were Motown didn't even want to release the record, the unexpected success of What's Going On, issued in 1971, inspired Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, and just about every other black artist on the planet to take greater responsibility for their music and its meaning. Gaye co-wrote the songs and produced the album, flavoring it with layer upon layer of his own multi-tracked vocals, oceans of hand percussion, strings, flutes, and jazzy horn solos. Spacey and loose as a spliff-fueled Sunday afternoon jam in the park, the nine songs all played like a hit single. The title track--inspired by his brother's return from the Vietnam War--and the obvious social commentary of "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)" and "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)" actually were hit singles. Two other tracks ("Wholly Holy" and "Save the Children") would inspire hit covers by Aretha Franklin and Diana Ross, respectively. Nevertheless, What's Going On sounds as fresh today as it did the week that it came out. Recommended reading: Divided Soul: The Life of Marvin Gaye by David Ritz (McGraw-Hill, 1985). --Don Waller ... Read more

Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (133)

Marvin "the prophet"
"What's Going On" is revealing in it's nature, very haunting and true...with this masterpiece Marvin did something that was never before done in the history of pop music culture; following in the footsteps of one of his idols Ray Charles, he mixed his musical roots and sang a sermon that to this day is fresh and powerful.Marvin is the greatest.

Gaye's finest. A REAL soul classic
The reviewer who thinks that the Lighthouse Family (of whom the lead singer marked Gaye as an influnce)is better than this doesn't know what he's talking about.He should stick to his Shakin Stevens and other rubbish like that.Back to this which has been a favorite of mine since 1987 and to say that they don't make music like this anymore is becoming an understatment.This is solid gold soul music worth anything than the likes of 50 Cent.I won't go to detail of this as the other 5 star reviews have done so.Except to say that many of the tracks have been covered by many artists over the years.It's one of the last great Motown recordings to come out of Detriot through their golden years (1963-1971).It's a still an all time classic 34 years on that brings out the best of Gaye,the Funk Brothers and especially one of the worlds greatest bass players, the late great James Jamerson.

An All-Time Classic
Any barebones Marvin Gaye collection should include a good compilation of his 60's hits as well as Let's Get It On and this one.What's Going On found Gaye breaking free from the Motown hit-making apparatus to produce an artistic statement that has since become a cornerstone of R&B and one of the all time great records.It's instructive that only an artist of Gaye's stature was allowed to get away with something like this at the time on Motown.

The title track is one of his greatest and has rightfully become an R&B standard.Gaye's gritty, streetwise lyrics set the tone for what's to come."What's Happening Brother" concerns a dazed and confused returning Vietnam War vet while "Flyin' High (In The Friendly Sky)" is about the dangers of drugs.Considering his own habit and circumstances of his sad demise, it's eerie to hear him sing lines like "I go crazy when I can't get it...the pain, oh the pain."

"Mercy Mercy Me" is another of Gaye's best songs and for me is the high point of the album as Gaye welds a classic and hypnotic beat to ecology-minded lyrics.Another classic hit, "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)" closes out the set.Despite it's fair share of hits, this record was sequenced so that each song flows into each other, with a singular purpose of music and lyrics that makes it best heard from beginning to end in one sitting.

What's Going On not only pushed the boundries wide open on R&B subject matter, but experimented musically as well.Starting with background "party" sounds and adding bongos, congas and other percussion, full horn and string sections and lush backing vocals make this an almost symphonic form of R&B.

A truly remarkable recording, and quite possibly the best R&B album ever.A must for any comprehensive collection. ... Read more

Asin: B000001AGK
Subjects:  1. R&B