The Division Bell
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Audio CD (05 April, 1994)
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Editorial Review

As Roger Waters's solo career set into a sunset of suspiciously self-serving Wall revivals and compelling if modest-selling solo efforts, his former band became one of the few outfits in the soft live market of the 1990s to burnish its stadium-filling appeal. But their recorded output wasn't quite so rosy. As all post-Dark Side of the Moon albums must have a Big Important Theme, The Division Bell is vaguely about levels of separation (did you say, duh!?), with more than one not-so-opaque lyrical jab at the estranged Waters. But there's a sense that the band may have put more thought into its trademark audio gimmickry (well represented here by the actual sound of the earth's crust cracking--you don't get that on Rage Against the Machine albums!--and a "spoken" intro by Dr. Stephen Hawking, or rather his voice synthesizer) than it did into its songs this time around. The opening "Cluster One" has a hypnotic minimalist lure that dissolves all too quickly into the bluesy waffle of "What Do You Want From Me," while Floyd Mach III leader Dave Gilmour's usually lyrical guitar work is uninspired throughout, a definite Floydian slip. Still, the band maddeningly manages a few moments of the old grandeur here and there. The Division Bell is not a great Pink Floyd album, but an all-too-fallible simulation. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (349)

Another Classic Pink Floyd
So it doesn't have Roger Waters. So what?! I respect him, but he's not the only reason for a good PF album. He was left alone to do "The Final Cut" and the end result was one of the weaker PF releases. That's not the case with "TDB". This is surely one of the best albums to come out of PF, with or without Waters. No doubt, one of the best five Pink Floyd albums.

"The Division Bell" welcomes back the full - time return of Richard Wright (he was mostly left out on "A Momentary Lapse Of Reason"). "TDB" Is much better than "AMLOR", because it's more intimate and the old magic between the Gilmour, Mason and Wright is back again and they sound better than ever. Gilmour's guitar creates dreamy landscapes, perfect for relaxing after a hard day. Or it's a perfect listen for an early dawn, when the sun is about to rise. Wright finds his old touch again and creates beautiful layered melodies with his keyboards, and Mason is right here to give this album a hard beat.

Gilmour's lyrics are much better this time, due to the help by his wife. They're more personal and heart - worming. "Marooned" features some of Gilmour's best guitar work, "Poles Apart" is an out of this world song, "Take It Back" sounds a lot like U2. "Wearing The Inside Out" welcomes back sax - player Dick Parry, last heard on "Wish You Were Here", 19 years ago. This song proves that Wright can still sing, because this is his first lead vocal since "Time". "Keep Talking" is a spaced - out track, featuring the vocals from Stephen Hawking, and "High Hopes" ends the album (a sad one, melancholic sounding) with a ray of hope.

Bad songs? - Not in here. From the earth noises on "Cluster One" all the way to the final bells fading out on "High Hopes" this is a non - stop enjoyment that will truly amaze you. An album that should appeal to more than Pink Floyd fans.

Dear Roger, Wish You Were Here... (2.5 STARS)
I know; stone me. I'm not a true fan because I don't find all of Pink Floyd's albums flawless, but I have good reason. And though comparison to past conceptual masterpieces is inevitable, I draw my opinion from a much simpler deck. The album as a whole is unappealing to me. The progressive weirdness of the sound is vanished leaving a grey, damp lump of half-hearted tunes. David Gilmoure, one of the 70's most prolific lick-writers and soloists plays the riffs with his fingers instead of his soul. And "The Division Bell" seems-- just as "Momentary" seemed-- to be release just to have material be out.

Not everything on the album is bad, of course. It's still Floyd, even if it's a very diluted version. Some very good back-and-forth keyboard guitar soloing on the instrumentals "Cluster One" and "Marooned," being the main interest-keeper for me. "Take it Back" is a very good song, sounding the same way that "Learning to Fly" sounded in 1987, though both singles had limited staying power. "Lost For Words" is another decent tune, though Wish You Were Here ressurection attempts are obvious. "High Hopes" is probably the second brightest single song spot on "Division Bell" after the aforementioned "Take it Back." Waters is missed-- aside from the band's lack of songwriting proficiency-- in the lyric department; "What do you want from Me," "Wearing the Inside Out," and "Keep Talking" showcase very poor poetics and an even weaker self-confidence, resulting in a forced, awkward product. But, I can honestly say that I'm happy that they released anything. It's been 8 years since "Bells'" extrication and I'm crossing my fingers for a farewell that leaves less of a bad after-taste. Overall: 5 of 10.

a masterpiece
pogo needs an ass beating.dont you think so?????.just check out his foolish reviews and you will see that while he has given great albums like wish you were here by the great pink floyd one stars,he has on the other hand given crappy albums by talentless overrated filth like britney spears and madonna five stars.i would advise you to ignore this joker's(pogo) stupid recommendations and buy this classic immortal album which has stood as a classic three decades after it was recorded.five stars. ... Read more

Asin: B000002A3T

A Night at the Opera [Hollywood]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (03 September, 1991)
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Editorial Review

Nothing succeeds like excess--at least that's the case with Queen's breakthrough classic, A Night at the Opera. On one level, the title is a reference to the band's operatic pretensions, best in evidence here on the classic "Bohemian Rhapsody," which was championed by headbangers a generation before being revived by the Wayne's World set. Of course, A Night at the Opera was also the title of a Marx Brothers movie, and the reference isn't lost on Queen, who seldom scaled the heights of pomprock without a knowing wink. The album is remembered for its meticulously produced bombast, but the truth is that there's a wide variety of material here, from the gorgeous piano-based "You're My Best Friend" and the McCartneyesque "39" to the music-hall-style "Lazing on a Sunday Afternoon" and the pedal-to-the-metal rockers "Death on Two Legs" and "I'm in Love with My Car." A Night at the Opera is viewed by most as the quintessential Queen album, and justifiably so. --Daniel Durchholz ... Read more

Reviews (124)

Defining Why Queen Matters
Queen's greatest album should be the guide to how to be a rock band. Like the Beatles, Bowie, and in some ways, like Led Zeppelin, Queen pushed their skills and style. Bob Dylan did it too. I wish today's bands had the guts to avoid the rut of writing for a demographic, and wrote such variety and quality.

As you click through the samples, you'll remember a lot of the songs from the days when FM radio played real music and not just the short pop songs.

The rock is solid, but they crank through more than a few power chords. The melodies behind "Love of My Life" and "I'm in Love with My Car" are delicately woven, yet don't lose the fact that they are rock tunes.

"The Prophet's Song" is an incredible multi-layered song competing with "Bohemian Rapsody" for articulating intense images amid a storyline.

And "Bohemian Rapsody"... simply one of the greatest songs ever.

I fully recommend "A Night at the Opera" by Queen.

Anthony Trendl

Sheer brilliance
A tongue-in-cheek eclectic masterpiece which kicks off with the gloriously take-this-and-shove-it-where-the-sun-doesn't-shine 'tribute' to their ex-manager, "Death On Two Legs". After that we have the wonderfully bouncy "Lazing On A Sunday Afternoon" - sixty-seven seconds of pure fun. Roger Taylor takes over lead vocals for his ode to automobiles, "I'm In Love With My Car". Moving along, "You're My Best Friend" is a fabulous piano-driven, upbeat piece written by John Deacon. "'39" is one of my favourites from the album ('favourite being relative, of course) with Brian May discussing "the land that our grandchildren knew" as he strums on his guitar. And if someone would care to explain that one to me, please do, because it makes less sense than "Bohemian Rhapsody". ;) "Sweet Lady" is a fairly typical rock ballad, not much else to say about it. "Seaside Rendezvous" is another one of those wonderfully fun songs. Be prepared for urges to jump up and tap-dance while beaming brightly to hit you as you listen to it. "The Prophet's Song" is arguably the best song here, an epic eight-minute tale of the end of the world. (But of course!) "Love Of My Life", in its original, pre-anthemic form, with gorgeous instrumental backing, is stunning. "Good Company" features Brian on vocals again - and the ukelele. As for "Bohemian Rhapsody" - well, what can I say that hasn't already been said? Six minutes of ballad/opera/rock with completely absurd lyrics. Hopefully 'Mama, just killed a man...' was a metaphor for something... 'I see a little silhouetto of a man...' The CD ends with "God Save The Queen" (instrumental) unless you count the unneccessary remixes that have been tacked on to the end of this edition, but I'd prefer not to. Superb work - recorded in '74, still amazing today.

Fantastic!
A lot of people are familiar with this one due to "Bohemian Rhapsody", but that's not the only good track to be found here! Just about every song on this album is very good, and the different songwriting styles of the band members are represented here. Queen is an "album band", not a "single band" -- each song is very different than the next, but they all have something to offer. Great album. ... Read more

Asin: B000000OAN

Post
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (13 June, 1995)
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Editorial Review

This Icelandic marvel is such an original that, even after four Sugarcubes albums and a brilliant solo Debut, she remains an acquired taste. "Army of Me" is a turbulent, darkling tune that's almost conventional next to the gloriously eclectic material that follows. Working with Tricky, Soul II Soul/U2 producer Nellee Hooper, and string arranger/one-hit wonder Deodato, Björk looses her helium-fueled voice and surreal wordplay on Gershwinesque pop (the adorable "It's Oh So Quiet"), ambient dub ("Possibly Maybe") and all kinds of fresh dance/pop hybrids ("Enjoy," "Hyper-Ballad," "I Miss You"). Too raw and adventurous for mass success, perhaps, but a more unique, engaging, oddly accessible artist just doesn't exist.--Jeff Bateman ... Read more

Reviews (178)

First Class Post And A Total Masterpiece
In 1993 Bjork released her debut album "Debut" and simultaneously created one of the most unique and original albums for years. The critics adored it and she was hard-pressed to deliver the goods on its follow-up. She more than delivered in 1995 with the masterpiece "Post." A darker and more mature album than its predecessor, Post is a wonderfully epic album that revived the music scene from a deadly overdose of dance garbage and manufactured pop. It couldn't have come along at a better time.

Not many artists wind up producing a second album that far surpasses their debut, but Bjork - once again - is clearly the key objection to this rule. With harder beats, more creative production and a wider perspective on the world, Bjork created a masterpiece that still sounds as fresh today as it did back in 1995. One can only imagine what was going through her mind as she recorded this album. Bjork not only changed the music scene in the 1990's with this classic album, she changed my own perceptions on music.

"Army Of Me" opens the album in grand style. This is a really good opener for an album, very loud, very brash and hectic. It starts off like an electronic crash, before sliding straight into a thumping bass and percussion. It's an extremely industrial song with mechanical styles and powerful vocals from Bjork. "Hyper-Ballad" is the first masterpiece of the album, and works superbly when juxtaposed next to the song it follows on from. Strings and electronic pulses sweep this song along and Bjork's lyrics about throwing things off cliffs are extremely visual and commanding. "The Modern Things" begins with computer-synthesized beats before exploding into a whirling concoction of chaotic layering of programmed beats. Not the best song on the album, but still a good one.

By far the most famous song from this album comes next, "It's Oh So Quiet." This still remains Bjork's only UK Top 5 song to date, and spent 15 weeks on the chart from November 1995. This song is a technicolor romp through musicals with soft and quiet verses which make way for outrageous musical bursts. Bjork's diverse voice on this song still amazes me to this very day and her complete disregard for anything commercial and stereotypical made this one of the most well-known songs of all time across Europe. "Enjoy" is up next and without a doubt my favourite song on the entire album. This song is more reminiscent of the first track from this album, yet it's heavier and more hectic with more industrial beats. A thumping, pulsating beat just assaults your ears as you listen to it. Bjork's voice is dark and almost scary. Not a song to listen to in the dark! Someone once described this song as like having your head stuck in a cement-mixer. What a superb analogy! The song gradually draws to a close after a loud and sharp horn on the 24th second of the third minute. It's just incredibly powerful, hardcore and atmospheric! Enjoy, indeed!

"You've Been Flirting Again" is a short interlude which makes way for the proceeding song. It's soft and quiet, very tranquil in stark contrast with the song before it. "Isobel" is another album highlight. This is, by all accounts, a masterpiece in music. Strings gently open the song before a tribal drum beat just appears out of no where, as if from the Brazilian rainforest as techno wizardry takes over and a deep bass infects the song. The strings before each chorus are incredibly epic and just open up the song. "Possibly Maybe" is a strange song that starts off like a telephone ringing. It's a sad song about a former relationship and the minimalistic nature of the song captures this. The chorus is strangely catchy as more layers are added.

"I Miss You" is a dramatic return to the dancefloor. It's an outrageous song with many musical influences such as a trumpet and crazy samba beats towards the end. Bjork's vocals are just free and carnal. A true highlight of the album, if not her career. "Cover Me" contrasts the hectic power of the last track in a song in which Bjork states, "I'm going to prove the impossible really exists!" And prove she does with a haunting and tropical beat. It's hot, muggy and sticky like in the dead of night of a rainforest. The emphasis and enthusiasm showcased in her voice is just downright inspirational. It's a short song which leads us into the next song wonderfully. "Headphones" is a brilliant song, if a little over drawn. At almost six minutes it's to be expected but the little electronic impulses that dart around the song totally make it an enjoyable listening experience. The crackling in the background and Bjork's vocals of "Oh, oh, oh, oh, ah, ah" in any arrangement just scars itself onto your brain.

OVERALL GRADE: 10/10

Bjork is a new discovery for me. I've known her as a star for far too long, and avoided her music because it didn't conform to society's standards and expectations. How wrong I was. Bjork Gudmundsdottir is truly a remarkable woman. She's a total genius and I'm not lying when I praise her as one of the greatest female artists of all time! There is such a wide range of music on offer on Post, yet Bjork manages to hold it all together with ease. This is one of the best albums that money can buy and one of the very few you can listen to over and over without getting bored of. Buy it now and discover just what all the fuss was about.

Amazing
One day, I just kind of thought to myself, "You know, self, I've seen a lot of Björk on TV, I wonder what her music's like?" So I asked a friend of mine who likes her what album I should buy. Without hesitating she said the first album she'd reccomend would be this one, Post. So, I bought it not sure what to expect, but I was blown away!

Björk's originality is something so...rare! There are original artists, then there's Björk. Her music is a breed of sound I've never heard before, it makes me feel ways I never did! I love the range of styles there is even on this CD alone! The album begins with a powerful techno-rockish type song, "Army of Me," its beat is so consuming! Then before you know it you feel like you're listening to a musical with "It's Oh So Quiet"! I love the way she sings a big band type song, but adds her twist to it.

There's not song on this CD I don't like, and like my friend did for me, I'll reccomend it to you!

This is Bjork Ladies and Gentleman : Review 2: Post
Bjork is back with a new sound as always and making it sound even better than Debut did. Unlike Debut, which one a dance slash jazz album, Post is very techno and industrial.

1. Army of Me : A very strong opening and like Human Behaviour, gives no indication of the roller coaster ride that you are in store for. 9/10

2. Hyper-Ballad : When I first heard the first 20 seconds I absolutely hated it. But when I let my Bjork CD-R run through I wondered what the song was (considering the word Hyper-Ballad never comes up). I love it to death. 10/10

3. The Modern Things : This song is very very fun. I think it is going back the Debut album in parts (lyrics) but it loks better on Post and completes in story. 9/10

4. It's Oh So Quiet : It sort of scared me because when you ever see Bjork on VH1 they always show her screaming at the end and then her dancing around in Big Time Sensuality which just is not fair. **It's fun to choreograph to** 10/10

5. Enjoy : The first Bjork true masterpiece on Post in my opinion. She carries herself off so classy and fun that this song is always a surprise. Enjoy!!!!!! 20/10

6. You've Been Flirting Again : The intermission. I love this song because it sounds so soft and you can just imagine yourself on a mountain or in a garden. 10/10

7. Isobel : The sequel to Human Behaviour from Debut. This time the character (Isobel) tortures citizens of a city when she discovers the pebbles of her forest where actually tiny skysracpers. 10/10

8. Possibly Maybe : The equivilent to Enjoy in my opinon. 20/10

9. I Miss You : The last good track on the entire album. It is fun and very showtune. Put it this way....she actually makes the accordion sound cool Good use of music invention Bjork. 10/10

10. Cover Me : boring..2/10

11. My Headphones : i'm dead...0/10 ... Read more

Asin: B000002HH2

Close to the Edge
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (16 August, 1994)
list price: $11.98
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Editorial Review

What's it all about? "A seasoned witch could call you from the depths of your disgrace / And rearrange your liver to the solid mental grace." Actually, it really doesn't matter. Later they would fragment and lose focus, but here is Yes functioning for once in the band's tortuous career as an organic unit, and individual elements--such as Jon Anderson's trippy lyrics--are less important than the whole. Even Rick Wakeman's Rachmaninoff-for-Hammond-organ excesses work in context, compensated for by Steve Howe's amazingly fluid guitar (equal parts Charlie Christian and Chet Atkins), in turn counterbalanced by Chris Squire's behemoth Rickenbacker bass and Bill Bruford's jazzy drumming. This is rock music informed by the improvisational spirit of jazz and allied with the grandiosity of the classics. Love it or hate it, Close to the Edge is the definitive prog album. --Mark Walker ... Read more

Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (173)

The stunning peak of Yes' 30 year career
This is a classic album. A classic. A classic of it's and every other genre. It's all to easy to sneer at progressive rock but not quite so to sneer at the superlative playing exhibited throughout this fine disc. 'Close To The Edge' features the classic Yes line-up of Jon Anderson, Bill Bruford, Steve Howe, Chris Squire and Rick Wakeman - a line-up that was soon to fall apart as first Bruford left to join Robert Fripp's King Crimson and then Rick Wakeman de-camped after the release of their next LP 'Tales From Topographic Oceans'. Things would never quite be the same for Yes after 'Close To The Edge' but who on earth could follow such a record? From the jungle noises at the opening of the title track which give way to a claustrophic and utterly chaotic piece of Steve Howe acid guitar brilliance; through the elvish combination of majesty and subtle folk touches that is 'And You And I'; to the closer 'Siberian Khatru' which provides us with one of Steve Howe's greatest riffs - this is an amazing piece of music from start to finish. Jon Anderson's lyrics are as obtuse as ever but they never mar the playing of a virtuosic group, riding the peak of a wave of creative genius, playing with breathtaking musical exuberance.

Another Prog Classic For YES
On the roadway of all things 'prog', one stop along the journey is most certainly this album. Close To the Edge was the third in a series of absolute classic albums by the venerable British art rockers YES, and proved to be a defining moment in their career. While the popularity of the hit Roundabout made Fragile huge with mainstream rock, its this album that serious fans point to as the best example of classic YES.
The band, known for its revolving door line-up, retains the same five-piece unit that created Fragile and the result is not as ego driven or fragmented. They manage to blend the increasingly bizarre 'sound painting' lyrics of vocalist Jon Anderson with the complex musicianship of the rest of the band: guitarist Steve Howe, whose playing is an unmistakably unique blend of country, blues and classical styles, and who also provides some inspired pedal steel; bassist Chris Squire's fat and funky Rickenbacker; drummer Bill Bruford's jazzy rhythms; and classically trained and inspired keyboardist Rick Wakeman. All of these diverse influences work together to create music that sounds as if it were a modern day orchestra playing a symphonic suite rather than a rock band.
YES had been conditioning their fans to lengthier pieces since The Yes Album came out the year before, and here they take their listeners on an even longer journey than ever before with the 18 minute title track. It starts off with the sounds of nature, only to be abruptly interrupted by a cacophony of angry, demented sounding playing by the band. The chaos almost becomes unlistenable until the band bring it all into focus, and kick into a great composition. The middle section features some nice keyboard work from Wakeman.
Siberian Khatru is a decent track, but it was never my favorite YES tune. It is about as close to straight rock as the band get on this album.
Then we come to a beautiful masterpiece, And You and I. This track is worth the price of the album alone. The melodies are great, and the arrangements fluid.
So if you are looking for a place to start with YES, this is good, although patience is required for these tracks -- they are long, which is why there are only 3 on the whole disc. If you are not sure, Fragile, the album the preceeded this one, is a good place to start as well. And if you are simply a fan of music that is more challenging and interesting than Top 40 ear candy, this disc won't steer you wrong.

Worthy of serious musical study
Close to the Edge is the apotheosis of progressive rock, and the culmination of Yes' considerable talent as a band. Following The Yes Album and Fragile, two minor masterpieces in their own right -- Close to the Edge comes out of nowhere. It is stunningly cohesive and internally consistent over the entire disc, while melding disparate sonic approaches. Most importantly: It rocks. It is a visual sound -- almost a traipse through nature with its dangers and beauty.

This music may be a musician's album. It is almost too good -- and yet it is accessible to almost anyone because, remember, it also rocks. ... Read more

Asin: B000002J1E

Stationary Traveller
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 May, 1989)
list price: $18.99 -- our price: $18.99
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Features

• Import

Reviews (14)

ONE OF A KIND
I love progressive rock, Camel is one of my favorites groups, I bought pressure points, rain dances and the single factor before stationary traveller and i get a great a surprise, this album is the resume of good works and it has a lot of nostalgia in their songs, "long goodbyes" is a masterpiece... Camel just great¡¡¡

prog and new wave...a perfect match!
While the preceding Camel album, "A Single Factor", was a blatant attempt to produce a hit single, Stationary Traveller attempted to squeeze out that last battle cry for progressive rock while embracing the trends of 1984, and was a miraculous artistic success. The loose concept is held together about as tightly as conceivable, every song or instrumental leading brilliantly into the next, all at least good, and the sum far exceeding the parts. It is here that guitarist Latimer assumes the mantle of leadership unchallenged, thanks to keening guitar solos that seem to awe in their own stark beauty. Judicious use of Alan Parsons' alumnus Chris Rainbow adds to the accessibility of the recording. From start to finish, this is a masterpiece. If possible, seek out the live video "Pressure Points" which features strong renditions of every song on this CD along with prior Camel classics.

The Camel isn't lost in the desert
Don't expect another "Lady fantasy" song on this album as it is something else more like Alan Parson's style. Prog purists won't like it, but I am sinner, so I enjoy every minutes on this album.

There is only one song that I find very average on this album and it is "Cloak and dagger man".

Camel should always end up their shows with song "Long goodbyes" as it is a great exit song: <> ... Read more

Asin: B000005S0D
Sales Rank: 33644

El Silencio
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 July, 1992)
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Reviews (15)

Caifanes, El Silencio
A mi parecer, el mejor disco de Caifanes. Es un gran clásico del rock en español.

En él se encuentran canciones como "Nubes", "Hasta morir" o "No dejes que...", que se han convertido en grandes clásicos.

En este disco aparecen como Caifanes: Saúl Hernández, Diego Herrera, Sabo Romo, Alfonso André y Alejandro Marcovich. Una excelente alineación que jamás se repetiría.

El disco representa la punta de su carrera musical, que aunque no alcanzó la fama e impulso que alcanzaría el disco posterior, fue el mejor recibido por el público conocedor.

No es necesario resaltar la buena calidad musical de éste, ya que hemos dicho que es el mejor disco de esta excelente banda. Es algo muy obvio.

Te lo recomiendo mucho, no debe faltar en tu colección.

Caifanes, El Silencio
El tercer disco de la mejor banda del rock en español en la historia. Éste reafirmó el éxito conseguido por los dos anteriores y consolida a Caifanes como la mejor banda del país y de esta parte del mundo, aunque todavía no le da la fama e impulso que después conseguiría con el siguiente álbum.

Con canciones clásicas como "Nubes", "No dejes que..." o "Hasta morir" este álbum, al parecer, es mi preferido de esta banda.

Es, considero, la punta de su carrera. En este disco participaron Saúl Hernández (voz), Alfonso André (batería), Diego Herrera (teclados), Sabo Romo (bajo) y Alejandro Marcovich (guitarra). Como puedes ver es una de las mejores y más completas alineaciones de Caifanes, nunca más volverían a estar estos músicos en un estudio de grabación para producir una más de sus genialidades.

Este disco es totalmente recomendable para todo tipo de público, si te consideras admirador de la música debe estar en tu colección.

Caifanes' Best
Excellent CD. The super group, Caifanes, reached a zenith with this album. Undoubtedly the very best they produced. It is like a greatest hits CD. The lineup of Saul, Sabo, Diego, Alfonso, and Marcovich is great. ... Read more

Asin: B000005LHR
Sales Rank: 89554

Images & Words
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 July, 1992)
list price: $17.98 -- our price: $13.99
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Editorial Review

Proof positive that one can be a virtuoso musician and also have heart, Dream Theater are in impressive form on this album, arguably their best. They do it by never allowing technical flash to overwhelm their songs; there's substance under the style, in the form of ear-catching riffs and aggressive rhythms. The opening "Pull Me Under" is, quite simply, a great song, from its sparse introduction to its heavy-duty main riff to its memorable lyrics. Dream Theater, as its name implies, is an introspective band, exploring the complexities of the human heart and bringing them to life with songs like "Learning to Live," "Take the Time," and "Wait for Sleep". Unlike many metal bands, they favor an optimistic outlook, as with "Another Day" and "Surrounded," and even the dazzlingly complex "Metropolis, Pt. 1" is an entertaining listen. -- Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (223)

The Perfect Balance Between Art and Rock
This is my second favorite Dream Theater album after When Dream and Day Unite, their debut release.

On this release -- Images and Words -- the melodies are flawless, the music is uplifting, the musicianship is unbelievable and the vocals (supplied by new vocalist James LaBrie) are soaring but not irritating as they are on subsequent releases. (He tends to overuse a melodramatic breathy-ness, but at least he's hitting the notes he's reaching for on this album!)

I'm not surprised this album catapulted DT into the stratosphere. Every song is brilliant. The guitar tracks are more out front than on their debut (but not so far out front that they've become bone-crushing and lacking in melody) and the production is superb. The balance is perfect between heavy and delicate, dark and light. Kevin Moore's keyboard work is nothing short of amazing. Check out the gentle intro to "Wait For Sleep."

"Pull Me Under," the opening track, was a big hit at the time of the album's release (1992). But, for me, the stand-out tracks are "Another Day," "Take the Time" and "Metropolis - Part I."

I've been on a Dream Theater binge lately (spurred by the release of their new triple-CD Live Scenes From New York, as well as listening to DT drummer Mike Portnoy's side project TransAtlantic). I've been listening to their entire catalog in order of release. Images and Words, a CD I haven't heard in years, is playing at the moment...and I'm realizing anew just how incredible it is.

Images and Words is brimming over with energy and stellar performances from all five members of the band. What a powerful album.

If you're fan of progressive rock -- or what's become known as "progressive metal" -- you need to have a copy of Images and Words. It's the perfect balance between art and rock.

Incredible
This CD is one of the most fulfilling collections of songs ever. The musicianship on this album is just astounding. John Petrucci is one of the best guitarists I've heard since Steve Vai, and being a guitarist myself, I am that much more in awe of his skill and technique, and his ability to play so beautifully. Mike Portnoy is far and away one of the most amazing drummers I have heard as well. Overall, this CD is one of the best. This CD alone (I also have Awake) is really making me make a transition from listening solely to thrash metal to Dream Theater's intricate progressive style.

With all the talentless pop music out there right now, it is nice to know that there are still bands like Dream Theater out there who are masters of their respective instruments.

Best songs on 'Images' are Pull Me Under, Take the Time and Metropolis Pt.1. All songs are unique and excellent in their own ways. A beautiful piece of work, but an incredibly talented band. It was a pleasure to listen to for the first time, and continues to get better with each listening.

What hasn't been said yet?
Everyone already took the words and reviews from my mouth so I might as well just give it my 5 stars and just say

I have successfully converted people to becoming Dream Theater fans with this CD. Its an excellent cd to begin people with. ... Read more

Asin: B000002JPA

Senderos de Traicion
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (28 October, 1993)
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Features

• Import

Reviews (18)

The Crowning Glory of Rock en Espanhol
"Senderos de Traición"(Paths of Treason)by the fantastic Heroes del Silencio is a great rock album anywhere in the world.

They here provide a killer combo of all their best qualities:Enrique Bunbury's spellbinding voice is at its best and dovetails neatly with Juan Valdivia's slightly celtic influenced guitar playing creating an unquestionably original sound.

The opener"Entre dos Tierras"is possibly the best track in here with its epic scope and compelling chorus but the record doesn't flag throughout,with the high points coming one after the other.
"Maldito Duende"is a dark ballad ,unsurpassable in its appeal.
"Malas Intenciones"is where Bunbury really shines and his pronunciation of"Más de un segundo en ti"in the track's coda wins the song by itself.
"Senda"is another great track and as powerful as they ever got.
"Oración"brings back their surfacing emotions and send them to a new high.

All in all superb and possibly the best set of songs ever delivered by one of the top bands the movement of spanish sung rock has yet produced.

La Misma Senda En La Que Yo Camino
Senderos de Traicion is one of the last albums that I've bought from Heroes. I like all of their music and albums very much, I listen to them 24-7, specially at night when all the world is asleep exept for me and the silence that overcomes my dark and cold room. But this album has to be one of my favorites because almost all of their songs are based on a true story, which is mine. Because behind all of their music, lyrics, and mastery of poetry, their is an involvment with darkness, loneliness, fear, love, and most of all drug addiction which takes you far away to a lost destiny, (Heroe De Leyenda, Hechiso, La Carta, and all the rest. "Heroes Del Silencio is the best spanish rock band ever worldwide". Y Para Siempre.

Un duende te invita a sonar... invites you to dream
Probably my best rock album of all times!

I wouldn't say, like the other reviewers, that it's just the best in Spanish or Mediterranean rock, I would say it stands up there among the best at world level.

Now, I understand the success and position of 'the greats', such as Iron Maiden, Skid Row (well some of), Wasp, Texas, D.A.D and Vixen, and I really like them a lot too. But I can't see why just because Heroes sing in (beautiful) spanish, they don't seem to me to be getting quite all the recognition they should and are hard to find in most shops, at least in Europe.
(All the lyrics are included in the insert, so - if that's the problem - go ahead : get yourself a translation somewhere, and don't let the words stop you from getting some of the best rock music and most magnicient vocals around!).

Even so, in the 90's they were regularly broadcasting their beautiful clips (do try and find "Maldito Duende" 's!) on MTV's Headbangers' Ball (don't know about nowadays, as I don't have MTV anymore).

By the way, there's nothing latin about either their music or the band, as one reviewer's title implied - they're from Spain, Europe.

The category is Hard Rock / Metal, and subcategory is melodic hard rock. Sometimes explosive, always powerful, full of punch, it is also always highly melodic and harmonious, never discordant or unbalanced, nor like " a weight on your nerves".
I have to repeat that the vocals are incredible, almost unmatched for richness and modulations combined with power. The instrumentation does them justice. What a bunch of well matching talented artists. ... Read more

Asin: B0000070VZ
Sales Rank: 43439

Secret Samadhi
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (18 February, 1997)
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Reviews (109)

Very Underrated - But Nonetheless A Brilliant CD
Most people who reviewed this album and gave it three or four stars mentioned that this cd was good, but not as good as the other two (or three depending on when it was written) cds. In all honesty, you can't even begin to compare them. Although "Turn my Head" has the same sort of ballade-style that many of the tracks off "Throwing Copper" the album on the whole is in a whole different genre. The lyrics are hard to understand (who knows what Lakini's Juice is about ;) ) but that let down is quickly set off by the quality of the music. It's not the melodies of the songs on this track that are amazing, but the guitar parts and harmonies are better than any I've heard recently. I personally think that "The Distance to Here" was not as good as "Secret Samadhi" because it wasn't as memorable. They tried to create what they had in "Throwing Copper". It wasn't revolutionary, and although "When Dolphins Cry" was a great single, the other tracks all sounded the same. "Secret Samadhi" is a trip to the darker side of live, and a true Live fan should have this cd. "Lakini's Juice" and "Turn My Head" both a great enough in and of themselves to give this cd 5 stars, and once you hear the rest of the tracks you'll fall in love.

Devoted Live Fan
If you are a true Live fan, then you would know how beautiful and energizing this album is. Every Live album has its own mood. Mental Jewelry has its emotion and feelings flowing out with the energetic music, Throwing Copper has its energetic beats and soul-pouring lyrics, and Distance To Here has its mesmerizing love songs. Secret Samadhi is my favorite album by Live because the songs truly mean something when you listen to them. Lakini's Juice, Ghost, and Freaks are my favorite songs on the album. Ghost is melodic and emotional and is a song you can really feel. Lakini's juice is somewhat slow, but then it energizes you with the "let me ride!.." chorus. Freaks, is a song that is really just asking: what type of a person are you? I love every song that Live has to offer, and I hope they will offer more soon! I definitely recommend this album to anyone who is a Live fan, because every album just gets better and better with every deep and heart felt word.

Church rhymes with lurch, genius!
What Secret Samadhi proves for Live is that, yes, they can construct a good melody, Ed Kowalczyk can infue his vocals with passion, but it's difficult to care with writing this trivial and altogether bad. Really bad. The opening track, "Rattlesnake," has a good chorus to grasp onto, but the versus seem thrown together on the car ride over to the studio. It makes the whole record seem rather sheisty, and unwisely self-important (the pretentiously titled "Insomnia and the Hole in the Universe" has a line in the chorus that goes "angel don't you have some bagels in my oven"). ... Read more

Asin: B000003BRW
Sales Rank: 12405

...And Justice For All
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
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Editorial Review

This record has so much good material that it's a shame the production is so shoddy. Songwise, this is probably Metallica's most sophisticated album, exploring the theme of justice and perversions thereof with a vengeance. "One" is one of their best songs ever, building from a slow, edgy beginning into effortless overdrive. The title track is excellent and never boring, despite clocking in at more than nine minutes. It's the epic of the album, but all of the songs are long, displaying impressive chops and songwriting. Metallica took a commercial turn after ...And Justice for All, and it's interesting to speculate on what would have happened to their music had they continued in the direction suggested by this album. --Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (601)

bad production stops this masterpiece cold
This album tried to take 1986's Master of Puppets one step further by looking at our corrupt justice system and other typical Heavy Metal topics: Insanity, rebellion...etc. And Metallica, considered by many (not me) to be the best band ever, comes out swinging. "Blackened" in Battery revisited, with scorching guitars and classic Metallica arrangment. However, once you get past the speed at which this album starts out, you notice one thing (well, at least I did) There's no bass. I pumped the bass up to the max on my stereo and still I couldn't hear anything, save for the occasional weak bass trying to work its way into the riffs every once in awhile. The result is that a lot of the songs, though well arranged, come off sounding thin and watery, without the punch that good bass brings to a song. I honestly don't know if Jason Newsted even showed up to the recordings. The production is crap, and it's a shame becuase it ruined whatever hopes this album had to be "best ever" status. Still, "Justice" does boast songs like "One" and "Dyer's Eve", great Metallica and a great effort. Buy this album, and just pretend there is some bass :)

Metallica's most elaborate, experimental, & angry work.
Despite the poor production on And Justice for All, this stands out as Metallica's most complex album, and my personal favorite from the band. Most of the songs on And Justice for All are extremely long, but thats certainly not a bad thing when when you're dealing with Metallica. All the songs go through elaborate stages, changing up the tempo & mood constantly. It's very impressive just to sit back & listen to. Whether they're playing speed-metal, pounding you with some slow steady riffs, throwing in some acoustic parts, or going off on a classic, thrashy guitar solo, its all done very well on And Justice for All. This album has an epic vibe to it, and it has two of the best songs ever written by the band. There's "One" or course, widely considered to be the bands best song, and then there's "To Live is to Die", an emotional instrumental tribute to Cliff Burton. That song is simply breathtaking. The rest of the album is outstanding as well. James's lyrics on this album are the most meaningful he's ever written, shouting out against various injustices concerning the government. This is also the band's most passionate & angry album as well, as they vent from pain & sorrow of losing their close friend & bass player Cliff Burton. While Master of Puppets overall may be considered Metallica's best album, personally I like And Justice for All more because of its raw & angry sound. Its much less polished than Master of Puppets & plus its has "One" & "To Live is to Die" which are my two favorite Metallica songs. So you can complain about the poor production & nearly inaudible bass on And Justice for All, but Metallica fans cannot deny that the actual music on the album is among the band's most experimental, progressive, & best work.

4.5 *
1. Blackened 5/5
2. ...And Justice for All 6/5
3. Eye of the Beholder 4/5
4. One 100/5
5. Shortest Straw 3/5
6. Harvester of Sorrow 3/5
7. Frayed Ends of Sanity 4/5
8. To Live Is to Die 4.9/5 too long
9. Dyers Eve 4/5

almost every song starts off the same way, but other than that, a very good album.

if you want to download this cd...go to winMX.com ... Read more

Asin: B000002H6C

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 (323)

Tremendous, epic rock album.
For me, The Joshua Tree is the best album of the 1980's. It had a notably long recording process, and saw the group travel to the Heartland of America for inspiration and for the memorable B&W cover art. The inspiration they found was in the direction of spirited, uplifting and sometimes heartbreaking sentiments delivered with fervour. Every song on the 11-track album is memorable. I'll start with my all-time favourite U2 song: Where The Streets Have No Name. I love this song dearly - it is about casting off one's shackles to find a true freedom of the spirit. I believe this theme is extended to the second single I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For, which is about the search for spiritual meaning and an affirmation of faith despite a questioning soul. Songwriting does not get any better than these two tunes. With Or Without You is a brooding song that starts slowly , then winds into a majestic chorus before fading to a wonderful instrumental coda. Again, it evokes a strong passion clearly stated with no filters. U2 never made music this direct again, spinning off into irony and camp during their glittery 1990's Lemon sojourn, but these 3 all-time classics will never be forgotten. One Tree Hill is a passionate song for a NZ friend of the band's who was lost in an auto accident. Running To Stand Still is sort of exploring similar territory to 1984's Bad , but has a different feel, while the bleak Exit is an undiluted cry from someone at the end of a very dark tunnel of despair. The gentle refrain of Mothers Of The Disappeared is also about the painful emotions of the bereaved, but offers solace in the face of tyranny. In God's Country is a more straightforward tune that may have referred to the USA itself, where many patriots believe themselves divinely blessed. And why not?!!! U2 found the wellsprings of the rock and soul traditions in God's Country on their 1987 concert tour, and their American experiences are documented of course in the Rattle And Hum movie . This title comes from the incendiary track Bullet The Blue Sky, which is about the fear of the military and economic might of the USA in certain Central American regions. This became a dramatic concert favourite thereafter. Red Hill Mining Town is another track with a memorable, soaring vocal performance by Bono. The lightest touch on the album is in the tune Trip Through Your Wires. All in all, a richly emotional album with great music and inspiring lyrics. I have seen it written that the sound quality isn't the best. Not being an audiophile, I wouldn't know, but I really don't believe that matters much. All that matters is the music and the message. This is a 5-star masterpiece. Highly Recommended!

One for a desert island!
Being a U2 fan for many years, I thought the best U2 album was 'Achtung Baby' and didn't think any album by them could come close to it.

Well that all changed last week when I finally got around to buying 'Joshua Tree'. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it wasn't just an album to parade U2's probably three most famous songs. Talking of these three famous songs, if someone can name me an album which has a better trio of opening tracks than 'Where the Streets..', 'Still Haven't Found..' and 'With or Without You', I will truely be amazed. But as I was saying. This album isn't just about those three true great musical anthems. The first other song on the album that really struck me was 'Running to Stand Still'. A beautiful ballad about a heroin addict, it sees Bono at his song writing best. And then there is the truely amazing and unique 'Exit' - a real musical journey, building you to a musical frenzy and back again.

Other highlights of the album include the classic-rock styled 'Bullet the Blue Sky' and the ode to America 'In God's Country'. Most other classic albums have at least one 'album filler' track, but not with 'Joshua Tree'.

To conclude, all I can say is, do you think your music collection is complete? Well its certainly not complete without 'Joshua Tree' and if you don't own this album you are depriving yourself of a truely timeless epic album.

I certainly 'found what what I was looking for'...

A Timeless Classic
"The Joshua Tree was the album U2 HAD to make, the only one they COULD make"

Those are the words of Eamon Dunphy, author of "Unforgettable Fire - The Definitive Biography of U2", on U2's process of making a new record in 1986 and early 1987. That might sound like an over-dramatization for a rock record, but once you've heard the record, that thought goes out the window. This record, U2's exploration of America, is one of the quintessential rock records ever recorded. It is, varying with opinion, U2's masterpiece of masterpieces. Since this album was recorded back when it was still 'ok' to talk about records in the context of 'sides', I will say that every song on the first 'side' of this record is a classic. 'Where The Streets Have No Name' with an intro that ranks with the best of all time, 'I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For' with a theme of longing that anyone can relate to, 'With Or Without You'(my favorite U2 track), one of the most popular breakup songs ever, 'Bullet The Blue Sky' with its hypnotic talk/chant at the end at Edge's furious and passionate solos, and 'Running To Stand Still' with its atmosphere of deep pain being held in. The second 'side' was comprised of lesser-known but no less mesmerizing songs: 'Red Hill Mining Town', 'In God's Country', 'Trip Through Your Wires', 'One Tree Hill', which was written for roadie Greg Carroll, who died in a motercycle wreck running an errand for U2, the dark and moody 'Exit', and the mournful and haunting ballad closer, 'Mothers Of The Disappeared'.

This record catapaulted U2 in a realm of superstardom seldom seen by any band. They were not expecting it and they were taken by surprise a bit. I own this record on vinyl, cassette, and CD, and I even have the 'Classic Albums' DVD for it. This album has that quality about it, that sets it apart from from all other albums that don't pocess it. What quality is that? This was the first U2 record I ever heard, and I remember listening to it for the first time at age 13, and thinking to myself, before the album was even half over, 'hey, whoa, this band is one of the best ever'. That's the quality. Just like when you listen to 'Revolver' or 'Abbey Road' or any record of that quality, before it is even finished, you know the band is one of the best ever. I was completely blown away. It is a draining experience, one that will leave you exhausted when the album reaches its conclusion.

Spiritually, emotionally, lyrically, musically, commercially, U2 reached their peak with this record, and it was a peak they would remain on for a while to come, starting with the "Joshua Tree Tour", their biggest tour to date at the time. And not only did U2 reach their peak, but it is also important to note that on this record, Bono reached his peak as a singer. For U2's whole career up to this point, he had progressively improved as a singer with each outing. On this record he made the leap from being a very good rock singer to being one of the great rock singers of all time. I submit he is still the best, most emotional, most evocative rock singer of his time.

And though that tour would eventually lead to U2 being sick and tired of their current form, and to the brink of a breakdown, that was still a good two and a half years away. At this point U2 were excited to be as popular and relevant as they would ever be, which, incidentally gave them the leverage to pull stunts like the now legendary liquor-shop-roof-quasi-show during which the 'Where The Streets Have No Name' video was shot. U2 had arrived. ... Read more

Asin: B000001FS3

Ten
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (27 August, 1991)
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Editorial Review

Part of the '90s Seattle grunge triumvirate completed by Nirvana and Soundgarden, Pearl Jam debuted with Ten, their most accessible, least self-conscious album. Over time, PJ's rep as a politically correct band just a little too above it all to prostitute its music on MTV has nearly superseded the music. But before that, they were a simply an in-your-face, in-your-head, loud, melodic rock band. And lead singer Eddie Vedder was known for his possessed stage presence and a primal growl that sounded like it required three vocal chords. The personal, narrative singles "Alive," "Jeremy," and "Even Flow" catapulted the reluctant band into the 10-million-plus-sales division. Subsequent albums are more intricate, subtle, thematically complex, and, in many ways, better than Ten. But the band may never repeat the stampede caused by this debut. --Beth Bessmer ... Read more

Reviews (538)

The Beginning Of A Dynasty
Okay everyone knows how Pearl Jam came to be, the members of Pearl Jam rooted in the seattle bands Green River, and Mother Love Bone, its lead singer (Eddie Vedder) who was with the seattle supergroup, Temple of the Dog. Ten was their debut release following the heels of the groundbreaking "Nevermind" by Nirvana. Everyone also knows it would be Ten that would launch Pearl Jam in the same orbit as Nirvana. but lets break down what Ten is, although it is Pearl Jam's most commercially sucessful album to date (due to the following albums absence of music videos, which i fully support), the sum is greater than its parts. Aside from Evenflow and Jeremy, we have the sonic rocker Deep which i find is sort of Eddie Vedders road map to stardom. The deep perplexic Garden, The gorgeous ballad Oceans, To the most underrated track in the Pearl Jam catalog, the moving Release. Which sometimes makes me still cry after all these years. Some say this is the album for all new Pearl Jam listners to get, I say get it because its the foundation. Even if your looking for something listen to or a group to get into, pick this one up and discover the dynasty's foundation.

Emotional Release, Not Pent Up Anger
Admittedly I don't take to Pearl Jam the way many of their more hardcore fans do. I understand that PJ represents a complete change in the music scene, but as far as the "these guys changed my life" sentiments, I'll have to pass.

What PJ and their debut album Ten are at heart is good rock. PJ are a throwback to the 60s when rock was supposed to send a message to the listener. Personally I've always found those types of recordings a bit preachy. But PJ does it in such a way that it's more of a release than a burden to listen to.

Ten deals more with emotional letting go and dealing with things than in the actual rage that you bottle up because of these awful things. In this respect they are the exact opposite of Nirvana. It is the release of this rage and the catharsis that it brings on that makes Ten an emotionally charged album.

Ten is easily PJ's most rock oriented album. There's little experimentation here. The songs are basic and they rock. Ten is not my personal PJ favorite, but it's a very close second to Vs.

Fantastic music, great debut album
Not so often, have I seen and heard so much good music on one record. I got the album two years after it was released and it was like an explosion, literally, at least for me. I was a little bit sceptical at the beginning, especially not liking Nirvana, but so surprised after hearing it. It was nothing like anything I heard before. The music is absolutely absorbing, breathtaking and soulful at the same time, great guitar playing, good rock with still enough rhythm to be listened to by the crowd. Not to talk about Eddie Vedder's voice and his way of singing. The first time I heard Alive I couldn't believe anybody can have a voice like that and can sing a great and said story like Jeremy or deeply personal lyrics like Alive or Black so well. Truly amazing. I would recommend this album to absolutely everybody who appreciates good music, good lyrics, and great voice. Probaly the best voice.... ... Read more

Asin: B0000027RL

Galore
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (28 October, 1997)
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Editorial Review

Standing on a Beach, the first singles compilation from Britain's premiere love cats, was the capper on a period of startling, evolving growth for Robert Smith & Co. This rather less interesting 18-song companion piece documents a peak commercial run that ended abruptly with last year's Wild Mood Swings disc. The one new studio track here, "Wrong Number," is a buzzing, synth-suffused delight that hooks deep after three spins. It's the cherry on a cake built from latter-day gems like "Lovesong," "Just Like Heaven," and "Friday I'm in Love." --Jeff Bateman ... Read more

Reviews (47)

Another great record from England's finest!
I purchased this album a few weeks ago for a project on my favourite song ever. At first I was confused; then I cleared my head and thought of the song "Just Like Heaven". Of course, that song is infectously beautiful as are the other AMAZING songs featured here like "Why Can't I Be You?", "Friday I'm In Love", "A Letter To Elise", "Lullaby", "Lovesong", "Catch", as well as the magnificent single "Wrong Number" which was newly released on this record. There are so many great songs on this disc, and it is sure to please anyone and everyone's tastes. If you are a first-time Cure listener, I recommend that Galore start you off so that you can ease yourself into the pure genius of how everything Robert and the boys play comes together.

Galore--the Singles won't disappoint you!

Practically Perfect in Every Way!
Let's start with the fact that with well over an hour of excellent music - 18 trax - this cd is a great value. This is a collection of some of the Cure's greatest songs - although their early stuff is obviously not included, this later music is richer, and has more complex arrangements that show off the poetic lyrics and Robert's sweet & crazy voice. If you only know their radio hits (Just Like Heaven, Friday I'm in Love, etc), then this cd will pull you deeper into the strange and beautiful world of the Cure. If you like the song Crash by Dave Matthews Band, then the sex-drenched lyrics of Mint Car are sure to please. The love songs are perfect - passionate but not too sweet, full of poetry & unexpected turns of phrase. Of course the famous gloom is also represented - Lullaby gives me the shivers every time I hear it. The music in general is deeply layered & psychedelic, lending itself to intense headphone listening. I also like to play this real loud & dance around the house with my husband and my cats. The only thing missing, which would have made this cd absolutely perfect, is Halo (the song we played at my wedding) which can be found on the b-side of the cd single Friday I'm in Love. To sum it up, this is a collection of well-crafted pop songs for the romantic, intelligent, deep thinker; especially good for someone just getting into the Cure.

Jonesing for "Pictures Of You"
Thanks to the recent TV commercial for HP Digital cameras, I found myself really wanting to have some Cure in my life again and went looking for "Pictures Of You." Yes, at one time I had almost all the Cure CD's in my collection, but time and economics had weeded them away. And "Disintegration" was never really my fave Cure album. But "Galore" offered me an opportunity to get the single song I wanted plus a batch of others I remembered with fondness.

As dark and morose as The Cure's image had always been, their records after "Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me" frequently found them making dazzlingly brilliant singles. That's where "Galore" picks up, with the singles "Why Can't I Be You" to the absurdist "Mint Car" from "Wild Mood Swings." There's even a pretty good new track with "Wrong Number." Hard to believe it, but Robert Smith was just as pop song smart as any New Romantic period hit maker, and in songs like "Lullaby," he showed the kind of playfulness ("the spiderman is having you for dinner tonight") that many of his fans didn't always "get." He never had any probelm with playing against preconceived notions of what a Cure song should be; I doubt a rapping Robert ("Hot Hot Hot") was in any goth fan's must hear list.

I also found it ironic that "Standing On The Beach" image of an old man was mirrored by the baby with the ice cream on "Galore." If you wanted to read more into it, you'd almost suspect Robert Smith was gently trying to remind listeners that he didn't mind playing to his more childlike nature when making music. While there has yet to be a comprehensive single disc collection of the Cure's best, a purchase of "Galore" and "Standing" will at least put all the singles at your fingertips. ... Read more

Asin: B000002HR2

The Best Of James
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (30 June, 1998)
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Editorial Review

Talk about your oblique strategies. With a stealth that would make the most cunning panther proud, in its serpentine career the English collective James has accumulated one of the most impressive song catalogs around. It hardly matters that few of these singles have been stateside hits. James's specialty is the chapel-chiming alterna- track, borne on majestic guitar hooks and the breathy, breathtaking vocals of sensitive-guy frontman Tim Booth. Thus, this gorgeous anthology may come as a shock to Yanks familiar with the group only via its quasi-novelty number "Laid," or maybe the whooping "Born of Frustration." Material-wise, the old ("Sit Down") shimmers as brightly as the new ("Tomorrow," "She's a Star"). Booth is such a likable, commanding presence, and his combo such an exhilarating, optimistic force, that you only want to hear more from James once this album ends. Hit the repeat button or explore their catalog--it's your call. --Tom Lanham ... Read more

Reviews (43)

This is their Destiny Calling!
How is it possible that a band as majestically brilliant as James are not superstars? To be sure, their habit of disappearing for years between albums can't help, but just listen to 'Sit Down', 'Waltzing Along', 'She's A Star', 'Tomorrow', Runaground' - heck, ALL of them. its like hearing classic hits from an alternate universe - how can these songs have existed for 2, 5, even 9 years without becoming standards? The great undiscovered secret of pop music.

We live in a world where Mariah Carey and Ricky Nelson are world famous, and James aren't. No wonder the suicide rates are soaring.

The best "hits" package in Britpop history, bar none.
James are the most earnest survivors of the early '90's Madchester scene. Often considered second-rate to such long-gone Manc contemporaries as the Stone Roses and Happy Mondays, the band has in fact produced some of the most affecting and brilliantly written Britpop songs of the decade. This "Best Of" package shows James in their brightest pop mode, culling the best tracks, predominently from their three strongest albums "Seven", "Laid", and "Whiplash," as well as two new songs. Impeccable production, tight melodies, and superb musicianship are the band's hallmark. And singer Tim Booth undoubtedly posseses the greatest voice in the history of rock music, second to none. Although James has never had a hit in the U.S., such memorable U.K. hits as "Sit Down," She's a Star," and "Hymn From a Village" create a coherent and enjoyable package. James is the only hitmaking English band of this decade who can yet create such an array of hits. I highly recommend this album to fans of R.E.M., Blur, and XTC.

A Wonderful and elegant best of package.
James was one of the great unsung bands of the great Britpop era of the 90's. Overshadowed by The Stone Roses, Suede and such others, James churned out great chimey sounding pop. Since some of their albums were of scattershot quality and the band produced brilliant singles, a best of CD of this band makes sense. Its a great package, beautifully put together and a must have for any fan of British rock or great rock in general. Highly recommended! ... Read more

Asin: B000007Q8H

Pulse
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (10 October, 1995)
list price: $31.98 -- our price: $28.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Live

Reviews (143)

PART II, HALF PRICE ?
Do not expect to be too enthusiastic about the innovative aspect of the music. If you did not like "the division bell" your only argument for buying Pulse is the full live version of dark side of the moon. To my opinion is just worth buying the album on these grounds (5-stars). The first part, however, seems to replicate "delicate sound of thunder". The exceptions being "astronomy domine" and "hey you", although you are going to miss Syd Barret and Roger Water's singing in either of them. There is no doubt that musically speaking the sound is astounding and Gilmour's guitar evolving but one would hope for something more original. If they ever release a new live album, do not be surprise of hearing the same old songs and of trying to compare them with previous live versions. Pulse would have certainly gained a lot by introducing tracks like echoes or animals, which are master pieces that never got to see the light in front of an audience after Roger left. Pulse is a weak attempt to revive symphonic rock, lacks of imagination and relies excessively on the previous live album, filling you with the impression of déjà-vu as if they were retreating old ground.

Amazing!
if you have one live pink floyd album, make this be it! sure, the dark side of the moon on the second disc sounds like the original, with a few added bonuses. but that is only a third of the set. the rest is one of the most amazing musical experiences one will receive. with a solid crazy daimond opener, this disc gets somewhere from the start, a dramatic keep talking follows after a few tracks, but this disc's heart is the amazing and jaw dropping sorrow and another brick in the wall pt. 2, with high hopes filling the gap. with the entire band filling out the space with solid jam halfway through sorrow, and the back-up vocals of claudia fontaine and her crew screaming out in tune with the beat and gilmour's cosmic guitar as he pulls out high pitch notes going up, up, up with every beat, but as he comes down a step of the highest one, then down another is were your the pulse of the music grabs a hold of your brian and yanks it right out of your head, as it mellows down with the serene ringing of the division bell and wright's keyboards with high hopes it only is giving you time to recuperate before you're hit again with another musical explosion of another brick in the wall pt. 2, though not one of the best songs in their repertoire, this version blows the competition out of the water, starting of slowly with the sound samples and a subtle rythm guitar into the gospel like vocals which pump up the music to a new hight before crashing into the opening "we dont need no education.." and building to the best delivered line of "leave your kids alone!" with gilmour end on a high pitched note wich gives me shivers every time. after the kids have their turn with the vocals, gilmour shouts out with his guitar, pulling some amazing riffs with one of the best live jams i have ever heard. in truth, i bought the whole 30 dollar cd for this track, before hearing the rest. as the pattern goes from higher notes and back down to the lower ones, then building back up, to glass breaking pitches with such ease and great flow, an abslolutely amazing experience with or without a certain "aide". disc two features dsotm in it's entirety, though most of it sounds much like the studio, though a little better. the gains of this version include the claudia fontaine's vocals, though great on studio, they are delivered with much more power and feeling live, giving me goosebumps everytime i hear it, plus a great jam in money as again, fontaine improvises and jumps around the room with her voice, as delicate as a butterfly, though capable of being as powerful as a finger of god. though the real treats on this cd are the encores, with the classic and beautifully played, wish you were hear wich makes you press the repeat button. a stratospheric comfortably numb follows, as with the first disc with sorrow and brick pt. 2, this track starts out normal but by the end you are a changed being, as if you were shot through a wormhole and ended up in a parallel universe. a hard pumping run closes the disc and wraps up the most amazing live floyd released. as simple as that

the greatest live album ever
please dont pay any attention to the one star reviews on this page for this great live album featuring live concert footage of the dark side of the moon cd plus their other big hits.very highly recommended. ... Read more

Asin: B000002B35
Sales Rank: 5340