Supernatural
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (15 June, 1999)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $13.28
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Editorial Review

The Arista debut of Carlos Santana and band gives fans of the soulful guitar vet two albums in one, but it's a decidedly good-news, bad-news proposition. First, there's a fine collection of late-'90s-model Santana--tastefully tooled songs driven by Latin jazz and Afro-Cuban rhythms ("[Da Le] Taleo," "Africa Bamba," "Migra," "Primavera," and the emotionally charged instrumental "El Farol") that allow Carlos plenty of elbowroom for his passionate soloing. Then there's the collection of tracks featuring a lineup of de rigueur alternative and hip-hop stars, including Dave Matthews, Everlast, Rob Thomas, Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Eagle Eye Cherry. To their credit, Matthews ("Love of My Life") and Eagle Eye Cherry ("Wishing It Was") muster enough chemistry to make the fusion work. But the rest of the collaborations feel like an unnecessary stretch to reach out to a younger demographic that El Jefe has little trouble attracting on his own terms. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (1059)

deserves its lauded success
there are a lot of great songs and collaborations on here, most notably with Dave Matthews, Rob Thomas, and Eric Clapton, who are people I have heard before and enjoyed.Many collaborations are with "artists" who I hate or have no respect for (such as the pathetic rappers; rap is extremely overrated), which weakens the album overall in my book.But there are great tunes, Carlos plays some great guitar, and it is a very celebratory fiesta album for modern times.The sharp arrangements and production make this the much loved album that it is.

Many people see fit to compare it to his older stuff, but i really see no comparison.THis is a completely different thing, very unrelated to songs like "black magic woman" and the like.This is a very accessible album; I recommend it in addition to any of his older stuff when Santana was a band, not just him.I also recommend you check out Shaman, which is just as polished (if maybe a little weaker) than this cd.

lame songs and it's grammy time
Santana motivated me to start playing guitar over 10 years ago when I saw him in concert. I bought handfulls of his releases around that time. He deserved his first grammys back in the 'black magic woman' days, but I doubt back then such music by a non-anglo would be allowed to champion the awards scene. I figure that's the only way you can explain it. How else do you explain how 'smooth' was such a hot hit? I cringed every time I came across that stupid song in my day to day life. Lots of canned music on this release and will not buy anymore Santana that are collaberations.

I'll cut Santana slack if this is a case of needing to pay the bills, but other than that, Carlos, please leave the cheesy pop music for the Britanys, Matchboxes, and Backstreets of the world.

Carlos, you are far better than that and don't need these people. Get back to Milagro, Dancing in the Flesh of Spirits, and Blues for ElSalvador. PLEASE!!

Carlos, what happened?
This is sad.Santana used to have a SOUND and PASSION.Now poor Carlos sounds like he's a gueston other peoples' albums.
The current formula seems to be, get whoever is flavor of the month ("hot") and get the whole bunch on a salable but forgettable and artistically bankrupt "product".
Of course a year or two down the line the truth is evident (Matchbox 20 anyone?).
Ditto for Shaman.
The truth is that after Michelle Branch has finally pudged out and dissapeared along with all the other pop tinsel and fluff Santana insists on "collaborating" with Carlos will still be around.Carlos, YOU are the future.PLease move on.
... Read more

Asin: B00000J7J4
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Blues-Rock    3. Hard Rock    4. Latin Rock    5. Pop    6. Pop/Rock    7. Rock    8. Rock/Pop   

Bob Seger - Greatest Hits
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1994)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $8.99
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Editorial Review

Bob Seger has racked up a lot of worthy tracks over the years, but it took until 1994 for a greatest hits package to appear. Voilà. The bad news: We're missing an awful lot of songs here. Night Moves is Seger's crit-pick album, and a great place to start if you don't have any Seger at all. Next in the rankings is Stranger in Town. Otherwise, his highs are pretty scattered, which would make any best-of package a worthy investment. But if you want to get comprehensive, "Rock & Roll Never Forgets," "Fire Down Below," "Horizontal Bop," "Her Strut," "Betty Lou's Getting Out Tonight," and "Katmandu" aren't on this CD--and you'll have to go to the original albums to secure them. --Gavin McNett ... Read more

Reviews (107)

Where is Seger's "Rocker" compilation?
I'm not an expert in Bob Seger, but it seems that for every great rockin' Seger tune, there's a (IMHO) schmaltzly tune!
Elvis has a "Rocker" compilation, why not Seger?
There should be a compilation for fans like me!
I'm sure there's a lot of fans who like Bob Seger, but when it comes to laying down cash, they don't want to pay for Mainstreet or Still the Same!
I can't recommend this album because of the "schmaltz" factor, although it contains a few good tunes.

Definite "Rocker" INCLUSIONS:
Sunspot Baby
Old Time Rock & Roll
Her Strut
Katmandu
Ramblin' Gamblin' Man
Rock And Roll Never Forgets
etc.
(there's probably a lot of great tunes that I don't know about, post your list!)

Definite "Rocker" OMISSIONS:
(Sorry Segerfanatics, but I truly dislike these songs!)
Still The Same (This annoying number is burned into my brain.)
Mainstreet
Night Moves
Beautiful Loser
Hollywood Nights
Against The Wind (although the "Wish I didn't know now..." line is good)
etc.

P.S.
Even if we disagree which songs are Seger's best, I think we can agree he is talented.

Old-Time Rock-N-Roll at its Best
This fine collection of songs by Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet band provide a retrospective look at the band during the height of their success in the late '70s and early '80s.From such classic ballads as "We've Got Tonight" and "You'll Accomp'ny Me" to such rock and roll standards as "Hollywood Nights" and "Against the Wind", the listener is taken on a rock and roll journey of a legendary band.

Each song on this fine disc is very good, but there are two in particular that stand out and make the disc that much better; "Mainstreet" and "The Fire Inside"."Mainstreet" contains some of the best lead guitar playing that I've ever heard, and its jazz and blues insturmentals make it stand out from the other songs.Conversely, "The Fire Inside" spotlights Bob Seger's talent at writing lyrics.The story contained in this song is very vivid, and the insturmentals, especially the piano, shine through.

I highly recommend this fine compilation of songs.The listener is treated to a wide variety of musical selections on one disc, and each is unique in its own right.Listen and hear an anthology of a terrific band.

Seger is awesome!
Bob Seger - Greatest Hits is purely awesome!

Seger is one of rocks greatest assets!
... Read more

Asin: B000002TSS
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Californication
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (08 June, 1999)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $14.99
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Editorial Review

Reunited with producer Rick Rubin and guitarist John Frusciante (both of whom were on board for the 1991's breakthrough Blood Sugar Sex Magik), the Chili Peppers waste no time in burying their last effort, the so-so One Hot Minute. Californication's kickoff cut, "Around the World," swaggers around the room, reacquainting itself with old fans and welcoming new ones. Fuzzy Hendrix vibes and popcorn bass lines still rule the roost, along with a heaping helping of disco magic and some unexpected twists. Ten years ago, Anthony Kiedis and company wouldn't have been comfortable doing revamped new wave ("Parallel Universe") or unpretentious ballads (the acoustic "Road Trippin'"), but such material fits Californication's extra-wide canvas. Except for a few meandering numbers that could have been excised, the Red Hot Chili Peppers succeed and regain their footing on the mountain of adrenalized funk. --Jason Josephes ... Read more

Features

• Explicit Lyrics

Reviews (803)

Best Band
I love the chili peppers because they are just the best you cant explain.(...)

there is so much to get out of this cd
probably the songs on here are the most beautiful songs they ever made.touching, arranged perfectly, with elements of funk and soul only RHCP could have crafted.This album was my introduction to the band, and I recommend it wholeheartedly for new fans.There is no way in the world that you cannot enjoy all the tracks here, they are just put together so well.This album made them really popular with teens today, more than any other album of theirs.just get it, its absolutely wonderful music.

An amazing album from an amazing band

When i went to see The Red Hot Chili Peppers in london last summer their set consisted mostly of californication tracks,which was great because i have always thought of californication as a really summery jump about album partly due to its number of upbeat songs (and hot front cover!).The track that stands out for me from this album will always be californication but there are some real other quality songs and each one goes in a different direction.There are quieter tunes such as this velvet glove and porcelain and faster paced tracks such as right on time and paralell universe.Alot of the tunes are quite experimental for the chili peppers as soem are quite unlike the bands previous material.The album has a good balance of fire fuelled tracks and moving mellow ones.
Californication is a must because the chili peppers,such talented and experienced musicians who are really at one with what they do,make its catchy guitar riffs and feel good beats cant help but work their way into your head!Defnitly my faviroute and i hope it becomes your too!
... Read more

Asin: B00000J7JO
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Funk Metal    3. Pop    4. Rap-Rock    5. Rock   

By the Way
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (09 July, 2002)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $14.99
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Editorial Review

When the Red Hot Chili Peppers first appeared smeared in neon body paint with socks dangling precariously from their wieners, even the most faithful funk-metal convert couldn't have conceived they would be around some 20 years later, carrying on in much the same fashion. Despite a long history of tragedies and personnel upheavals, the California quartet's eighth album is mostly business as usual--and business, as usual, is quite good. The title track, "By the Way," is a powerful, bruised piece of slap-bass and intermediary white-boy rapping. "Universally Speaking" pays sweaty, soulful tribute to singer Anthony Kiedis's hometown of Detroit. And "Lemon Trees on Mercury" sounds eerily like it could have been lifted from 1984's Freaky Styley. The band's reliable eclectic side, meanwhile, surfaces on the Latin-flavored "Cabron" and moody "Venice Queen." But the biggest surprise is "Tear," a masterful homage to the Beach Boys that suggests the Chili Peppers' perpetual state of arrested development may someday lift.--Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Reviews (651)

Awesome
This is a follow-up to the excellent Californication.Another great album, By the Way is the ideal rock summer release.With a sunny California vibe mixed with sad undertones, it taps into both a rock attitude and a summer desire to relax and have fun.

Though fans of early RHCP may not like the fact that it lays off the funk and rap of the 90's, the song quality of this record makes it their best.Each song is catchy enough to inspire multiple listens, and many are sure to become RHCP staples.

Breathtaking
By the Way soars as one of my favourite albums. RHCP manages to pull off yet another unique cd, balanced with the upbeat and funky ''This is the place'' and ''Throw away your television'', and the slower ''Venice Queen'', ''Dosed'' and ''I could die for you'' that add that melancolic, yet beautifull ring to the album. No need to say Flea's bass riffs are purely excellent, as he stands one of the best bassist of his generation. The guitar's harmonics and catchy rythms are great, though it's not the leading instrument, its takes you away with breathtaking solos. The instruments mix perfectly with Kiedis' melodic vocals, that support the strong lyrics. One of the best tracks on the album, Minor Thing, kicks off with a solid intro and almost rap-sung lyrics. Beautifull. The 16-track album is a masterpiece, a must-have in your RHCP collection.

Personal favourite: Can't Stop

Am I the only one...
After reading the reviews of this album (finally, of course years after its release) I feel like another opinion must be heard.

I have been a die hard peppers fan since the early 90's.Yes i missed some of the late 80's (i was too young) but once i was hooked i was hooked. I have collected every album this band released and nearly every single.I could not get enough of this band.

Like most other pepper fans I can see the struggle that existed while creating One Hot Minute.Then to have Californication come out was strange at first but then a breath of fresh air for this band.So with my hopes up I waited for this album to be released...I hate to say this but I was disappointed.

By the Way missed the mark for me as a peppers fan and for many other peppers fans i know.In other reviews it is said this album attracted a new crowd while keeping the old fans.Well I haven't heard any old fan who think this was a great album especially not the bands best.I mean as an old fan one album won't make me stop liking the band, so of course none of the old fans were lost.

In another review someone mentioned this album will eventually become a classic like a REM or U2 album.What? I listen to the peppers cause those bands just could never do it for me.And again I can not name a single person who loved the peppers and wanted them to sound like U2.They were a breed of their own and their energy/creativity is what seperated them from those entirely way too main stream groups.

I just want to give some perspective on this album.It is a good album for this band and maybe great compared to most the awful music being released these days (U2's Vertigo, my number one example) but not the best for the peppers.The songs are catchy and are well written.I just think the entire album is missing that old peppers spark.Its kind of bland at times.I know the band is changing musically and i completely respect that, so that is not the problem for me either.But many reviewers feel "radio play" seems to be a factor.

On another topic, I feel the musician who really shines on this album is John.But if you really want to hear some great music by him please check out his solo realeases.They may not be "pop" but they are great pieces.Also don't think i am a John junky who only likes him.Flea was the reason i started liking this band and is the main reason I still love this band.

So wrapping up i just want to tell you that i am still a huge peppers fan (and always will be) but this album just isnt their best.I am writing this in response to the other reviews here on amazon so not everyone who reads the reviews believes this album to be the best peppers you can buy for your money.If you are interested in this band first buy Blood Sugar Sex Majik, then you will know what this band is about.Plus, now that the band is back in the studio who knows what the future will bring. ... Read more

Asin: B000067CPX
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Funk    3. Pop    4. Rock   

Blue [Clean]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (23 November, 1999)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $10.99
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Editorial Review

Third Eye Blind's second album will go a long way in helping the San Francisco-based band to shed their corporate-rock label. Less grandiose and obvious than their 1997 debut, the elegantly flawed Blue crackles with energy and dark humor, but doesn't wade in the same pools of gloom and despair as its self-titled predecessor. Frontman Stephan Jenkins has exchanged his intricate stream-of-consciousness musings for more streamlined soulful wordplay. The assertive, inventive guitars recall such big bruisers of yesteryear as Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin, but without the heavy-handedness. "Never Let You Go," the album's standout, is as catchy as Rick Springfield's "Jesse's Girl," but with a raw edge and a snarling Jaggeresque rap by Jenkins. Smart, poppy, and ironic, Blue more than solidifies Third Eye Blind's standing as a band on the rise. --Jaan Uhelszki ... Read more

Reviews (439)

Not bad, but not as good as the first CD
About half of this CD is worth the money. It's generally a good CD, but some of the tunes are somewhat unremarkable compared to the debut album.......which is the CD that drew us to the band in the first place.

The most upsetting thing with this and other modern discs is the copyright protection. In order to make a compilation CD of the two discs I have of them I had to record the six songs I like on this CD using line in. This made it a pain in the neck.

I paid for this CD, shouldn't I have the right to break it down in to a compilation using the software and equipment I also paid for?

This kind of stuff only drives people to the pirating sites where it's easier to compilate the stuff you want. Copyright protection doesn't deter those who would profit from pirating because they can overcome the protection or simply record a copy using line-in then fast burn all the copies they want after that.

Copyright protection only hurts the music enthusiast like me, who don't mind paying for the music but feel I have the right to make a backup copy, a copy for my 200 disc changer and excerpt only the songs I like to another disc.

For this reason, I'm upset that I ever bought this CD.


Support independent artists who believe the consumer has rights too. The entertainment industry is one of few that don't offer satisfaction guarantees.......even Wal-Mart will let you return a lamp, even if you don't like the way it lighted a room after a week.

Rant over

sick CD
I don't understand how some people can give this 3 stars or less. Every damn song (exception of Darwin and Slow motion... which are okay songs) are good. One person was criticizing The Red Summer Sun and the screaming part in that song... saying that he was posing Steven Tyler. There is no way Stephan Jenkins would pose anyone, he's his own voice... and that is the best part in that song. Other people were saying that they're "trying too hard and not focusing on the lyrics"... that's b.s. Listen to the lyrics of The Darkness or 1000 Julys... lets see you write songs like those and make a sick melody to them. This CD is right up there with Self Titled... and owns Out Of The Vein.

Best 3eb album to date
This one is my favorite Third Eye Blind album of all three.The songs were well written, varied, and had clever and interesting lyrics.
I recommend anyone to get this album, along with the other two Third eye Blind albums.Can't wait to hear some new material from them! :) ... Read more

Asin: B00002Z88G
Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Pop    3. Post-Grunge    4. Rock   

King of the Hill (Television Series)
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (02 November, 1999)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $11.98
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Editorial Review

Fox Television's animated comedy King of the Hill is yet another perfect mix of high wit and low humor. The soundtrack moves all over the map as well, with an interesting set of covers and a decidedly country flavor. Hank Hill himself delivers the spoken-word gem "Teddy Bear," a tune by Red Sovine that Hill calls "one of the greatest songs ever written." Travis Tritt teams up with George Thorogood for a solid rendition and reprisal of George's hit, the Hank Williams-penned "Move It on Over." The Mavericks add an extra dimension of festivity to Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Down on the Corner." Brooks & Dunn deliver Bob Seger's "Against the Wind" as the country song it always seemed to be. Faith Hill, however, can't quite erase Janis Joplin's imprint on "Piece of My Heart." Deana Carter traces Tom Petty's "Free Fallin'" and manages to find a previously untapped solemnity. For goofy pop, Barenaked Ladies deliver the ebullient "Get in Line." --Rob O'Connor ... Read more

Features

• Soundtrack

Reviews (6)

Great CD!!!
I bought this because I love King of the Hill and now this has become of favorite family CD!Our 4-year-old requests it all the time.

It is a great compilation - I am very pleased!I don't own cd's by any of these artists (besides Willie Nelson) and now I've got to check them all out.Barenaked Ladies, Travis Tritt, Old 97's, Tonic, Faith Hill...all are fabulous!The Mow Against the Grain song is great for a laugh!Enjoy!

Another Hit from the King of the Hill Crew!
First the show, then the book "The Boy Ain't Right," now this album.Those guys keep putting out one great product after another.What could be next, a great CD-ROM game?I can only hope.

Anyway, theBarenaked Ladies Song is great, Hank Hill singing Red Sovine's "TeddyBear" is an instant classic, Sheryl Crow has another hit, "MowAgainst the Grain" made me laugh and Willie Nelson made me cry.Thisalbum has everything for everyone and I loved it.If you're a fan of theshow or if you just like great music, GET THIS ALBUM!

King o' da Hill!
Ok.Texas is cool, but King of the Hill is cooler.The only reason I listened to this here CD is the fact that my Ladies are on it."Get In Line" is a kickin song.I dig it, baby.The rest of the album isgreat, too.I'm just partial to my BNL. :)Keep it up, Hank. ... Read more

Asin: B000021XSI
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Soundtracks & Film Scores   

Joe Cocker's Greatest Hits
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $11.98
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Reviews (3)

Missing something
While this is a decent CD some essentials are missing.She came in through the bathroom window, Joe's first hit is not included.This collection was also released prior to the release of Up where we belong and When the night comes.

Joe Cocker screaming out his hits in the Seventies
"Joe Cocker's Greatest Hits" covers the singers works in the Seventies, starting with the memorable organ and guitar work by Tommy Eyre and Jimmy Page on the classic beginning of "With a Little Help From My Friends."One thing about Joe, he surrounds himself with some very talented friends, whether we are talking Leon Russell on piano with The Grease Band or Rita Coolidge singing in the choir.Basically this collection gives you the songs that made Cocker a star in his first decade, "Cry Me A River," "Delta Lady," "The Letter," and "You Are So Beautiful."True the man had his low moments, being lampooned by John Belushi on the same stage on SNL, but not since Janis Joplin has there been a rock and roller who could scream with such soul.

It's so great this album just a waste here!
Forget this greatest hits CD collection it's not the best just get Joe Cocker's anthology you'll thank me when you do! ... Read more

Asin: B000002GC9
Sales Rank: 90440
Subjects:  1. Blues-Rock    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. Rock   

Amplified
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (08 August, 2000)
list price: $21.98
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Reviews (5)

Classic Rock At Its BEST!!
I have collected a great number of CD's and vinyl's over the years and I have to say I have a very eclectic collection.But (...here's the "but"..) AMPLIFIED is the best investment I have ever made to add to my collection of classic rock.It just doesn't get any better than the original recordings of the Kinks, Spencer Davis Group, Jefferson Airplane with the fabulous Grace Slick!! "Love Hurts" by Nazereth and Joe Walsh's "Rocky Mountain Way" brought back soooooo many memories. Cat Stephens "Peace Train" always makes me shed a tear of joy. "American Woman" just rocks!!! Lenny Kravitz did a good job re-recording it, but no one will ever touch the original "Guess Who" recording.If these are the songs you love and wouldn't mind hearing them over and over and over (you could do much worse..), then you must by this 2 CD set.It truly represents some of the very best of classic rock. It's timeless. You won't regret it!

UTV Turns Up 24 Rock Classics On "Amplified"
While not exactly "the definitive double CD of classic rock" advertised on its cover, UTV Records' "Amplified" is near-perfect background for the next baby boomer barbecue or road trip. Clearly remastered by Suha Gur (who worked on UTV's more focused, superior "Classic Years" Motown set) this CD unpretentiously gets to the riff-heavy rock dominating pop culture for most of 20 years.

Sequencing is haphazard; the Kinks-into-Who-into-Spencer Davis Group opening captures a taste of British Invasion before stumbling embarassingly into Rare Earth's lame "Get Ready." Disc One ends on too mellow a note with the Cat Stevens, Elton John and Don McLean tracks. (Elton could well have been represented with the more rocking "Saturday Night's All Right For Fighting.")

Similarly, two rousing anthems from Steppenwolf and Thin Lizzy start Disc Two,followed quickly followed by a southern rock suite including genre classics "Ramblin' Man" and "Free Bird." But Styx's "Too Much Time On My Hands," released in 1981, is lighter, faster and wittier than the set's other ponderous anthems, and thus is a poor set closer.

Some songs seem stale, hard if sweet donuts out of their original albums' context. Boston's gentle, jangly fadeinon "More Than A Feeling" was and remains electrifying on their debut CD,but seems all too familiar as Track 11 on Disc 2. Yes' "Roundabout," unusual in compilations, still thrills but fits better as one piece in 1972's prog-rock classic "Fragile." This also explains why the Who's "Can't Explain" won over "My Generation," and why Eric Clapton, arguably classic rock's central solo figure, is represented only by the Cream track and not Derek & The Dominoes' "Layla."

But for once the lack of liner notes on "Amplified" is a positive. We needn't hear one more interpretation of "American Pie" or rehash of the Guess Who's "American Woman." The music speaks its outdated but reassuring language for itself.Despite obvious omissions (Atlantic's 4CD classic rock set is still available and fills many gaps), "Amplified" draws well from parent Universal's deep rock (Polygram/MCA) catalogue and peppers it with enough outside tracks for a satisfying, nostalgic and affordable rock sampler. Recommended for those too young or stoned to enjoy the music the first time, with essential tracks found on the artists' original sets.

this cd rocks
I usually wouldn't recommend a compilation cd, or even a greatest hit cd, and if you're a classic rock fan you probably have these songs already.If OTOH you're not that big of a classic rock fan and don't want to spend lotsa money on dozens of cd's or listen to crappy mp3 quality (even @ 320 kbps it doesn't sound quite the same)this cd is for you.All of these songs are great.Definitely worth the money ... Read more

Asin: B00004WF5C
Sales Rank: 138690
Subjects:  1. AM Pop    2. Album Rock    3. Alternative Pop/Rock    4. Arena Rock    5. Blues-Rock    6. Boogie Rock    7. British Invasion    8. Folk-Rock    9. Hard Rock    10. Pop    11. Pop/Rock    12. Rock    13. Rock & Roll    14. Singer/Songwriter    15. Soft Rock    16. Southern Rock   

The Best Blues Album in the World Ever
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (29 February, 2000)
list price: $22.98 -- our price: $22.98
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Reviews (4)

Not the best ever...but still darn good
Although the title is totally hyperbole, this is an excellent collection of blues tunes of various eras and styles.

I am a relative newcomer to the blues, so a compilation like this is right up my alley.It lets me get a taste of different aspects of the blues, and to discover artists that I would not have otherwise been exposed to.

Represented here are some of the early delta bluesmen (Lightnin' Hopkins "Abilene", mislabeled as "Shotgun Blues"), the early electric blues (Muddy Waters' "Mannish Boy"), the '60's revival (B. B. King's "3 O'Clock Blues"), the great female blues singers (Koko Taylor's smokin' "Wang Dang Doodle"), the British blues bands (John Mayall's "Spinning Coin"), contemporary American blues rock (Johnny Winter's "Illustrated Man"), and lesser known contemporary artists (Colin James' infectious cover of "No More Doggin'").

Throw in selections by Albert Collins, Elmore James, Howlin' Wolf, Chuck Berry, John Lee Hooker, Albert King, Freddie King, Buddy Guy, J. J. Cale, and others, and you have a blues compilation CD that may not be "The Greatest in the World", but one that both novices and long time blues fans can enjoy.Highly recommended to anybody with ann interest in the blues.

Classic In Every Way! You will FEEL the Blues!
Calling your album the "best ever" takes balls, but this CD stands the test. From classics like Muddy Waters' 'Mannish Boy' or Little Walter's 'My Babe' to hot female singers like Etta James and the dynamic Koko Taylor to oldies radio station's staples like 'Reeling and Rockin'' by Chuck Berry and classic rock blues like Gary Moore's 'Still Got The Blues', this CD covers a lot of ground.

If you want an introduction to the blues and can only buy one CD, this should be it! If you already love the blues, you'll love hearing these songs again and remember them like your first kiss. Either way, this CD will put sadness in your heart or heat in your loins, sometimes in the same song!

The best ever?
Not even close to the best ever.The actual title should read: "The Best Blues Album For Which We Were Able To Get Rights To The Songs Quickly" or something like that.The fact is this double disc set is just a grab bag of songs with absolutely no thought put into it whatsoever.With a few exceptions, disc one is practically a throw away.Larry McCray, Kinsey Report, Gary Moore, and Terry Evans et. al. are all ok modern blues artists but hardly deserve to be on a blues album titled "The Best Ever" -especially one limited to only two discs.

This is a Virgin release, so poor understanding of the genre is to be expected.However, to boldly exclaim that this is the best ever compilation is a rather ostentatious position -even for the Virgin people.The best ever blues compilation would certainly be a difficult undertaking.However, this set completly ignores the likes of giants like Big Maceo, Tommy Johnson, Sonny Boy Williamson I & II, Robert Johnson, Tampa Red, Lowell Fulson, Big Bill Broonzy, Lonnie Johnson, Roosevelt Sykes, Robert Nighthawk, Jimmy Witherspoon, Floyd Dixon, and so many many more important and entertaining historical blues artists.The most shocking eversight is the absence of T-Bone Walker!

Really, I think this is a waste of your money.Even on its own level the flow is odd especially on disc one.Disc two has a better grouping and flow of great blues artists and songs, but still not worth the price.There has yet to be a true "best of" compilation to be released, so for now I suggest you may want to explore the best attempt to date. It is a four disc box set released on MCA in 1996 called "Mean Old World." ... Read more

Asin: B00004LMKJ
Sales Rank: 13136
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Blues-Rock    3. Chicago Blues    4. Contemporary Blues    5. Delta Blues    6. Electric Blues    7. Electric Chicago Blues    8. Electric Texas Blues    9. Jump Blues    10. Modern Electric Blues    11. Pop    12. R&B    13. Slide Guitar Blues    14. Soul    15. Soul-Blues   

Something Like Human
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (19 September, 2000)
list price: $13.98
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Editorial Review

In Something Like Human, the moody and brutally emotional rock band Fuel has a solid follow-up to their platinum Sunburn disc from 1998. Produced by Ben Grosse (Filter, Vertical Horizon) and coproduced by Fuel guitarist-songwriter Carl Bell, Something Like Human picks up where Sunburn left off, both musically and emotionally. From Brett Scallions's heart-wrenching vocal performance on the CD's first single, "Hemorrhage (in My Hands)," with its mournful reflections to the "Shimmer"-like "Slow," the bleak, dark temperament that characterized Sunburn is continued. Even seemingly upbeat moments are buried deep in paranoia ("Knives") or leave a bitter taste ("Solace"). Not as dirge-heavy as Alice in Chains (though "Down" sounds like that band) or as commercially viable as Creed, Fuel nonetheless have the strong songs and melodies to make their doleful musical visions eminently memorable and quietly cool. --Katherine Turman ... Read more

Features

• Enhanced

Reviews (160)

A nice introduction to Fuel
Having on a whim brought this CD at my local music store as a side thought to see how this band was, I was surprised and pleasantly surprised by the unique and sublime way this band went about with their style of music. They have won me over as a fan and have ordered from Amazon their other album releases.

Fuel is a band that orginates from alternative rock. Rock beats with their own stylish rythmns. Fuel is like tasting the sweetest watermelon on a red hot day. Songs like Last Time, In My Hands, Bad Day, Innocent and Slow bring out the best that this band has to offer. The CD was enjoyable to listen to and I have listened to it countless times since buying the CD.

Fuel is a band that'll be around for a long time to come. Watch out for the lyrics in Empty Spaces - they're super.

All the finer things . . .
*IMPORTANT*:: This is a long, tedious, and infinitely awesome review.If you are worthless, skip it.

The Incredible and Awe-Inspiring Legacy of the FUEL of Life, Vol. 2:"Something Like Human".

When it comes to these albums by FUEL, I feel a useless, but strong desire to explain my feelings about each and every track, especially because the songs on this particular album are all very important to me... though it would be next to impossible for me to explain why.Here are my wonderful and totally relevant thoughts on SLH:

1 - `Last Time' - A faint whiff of feedback is revealed before FUEL blasts off on a simplistic but powerful intro, which drops off quickly into Brett Scallion's angry first verse.It's as you listen to this point of the song that you begin to realize how much more mature the band sounds musically compared to "Sunburn".The lyrics don't rely on any rhyming scheme, they just flow together perfectly to fit the song's format.The chorus yells "this is the last time, this is the last time I'll bleed for you!" as the guitars boom along magnificently.The solo's wailing guitars are excellent and lay the foundation for FUEL's sound on this album, resulting in one of the most riveting tracks of FUEL's career.5/5

2 - `Hemorrhage (in my hands)' - HEMORRHAGE RULES.Strong opening chords start off the song, and are followed closely by fast finger-picking from Carl Bell on the guitar, and some agonizingly beautiful singing of Brett.The lyrics are wonderfully thoughtful and emotional, especially during the second verse: "She cries, her life is like / some movie black and white / dead actors faking lines / over and over and over again she cries..."You can frikin FEEL the desperation writhing within the gorgeous melody, magnifying the beauty of this song and lifting it to an incredible emotional height.It's this track, more than any other, that signifies FUEL's maturation and growth musically and artistically. Forever my favorite FUEL song, and an emotional masterpiece.6/5

3 - `Empty Spaces' - This is one of the louder and more rhythmic songs on the album.The fast and throttling main riff, like `Jesus or a Gun', makes you feel like you're moving at a million miles an hour... until you make it to the verses, where it chuggs quickly along to make way for the track's raw and steady vocals, deftly capturing the song's brilliant mood.There's more whining guitars on this one, and the short ten-second guitar solo fits perfectly in this song and provides great support for the track's sound.Kevin Miller's drums are also a noteworthy contribution to this song, as well as Jeff`s bass-work.A very strong track.4.5/5

4 - `Scar' - A slowly brewing song that I find to be the most fun on the album.It's loud and churning, with a chunky riff that slides along with lovely devotion and impeccable musicality.Some have related this song's sound with that of ALICE IN CHAINS, and I agree, especially with Brett's vocals at the chorus: "fall in, fall out / break free, break down".The vocal melody is ridiculously brilliant and the music on the bridge, though simplistic, is AWESOME.This is just a fun track that reminds me of the kind of thing you'd hear off "Sunburn".5/5

5 - `Bad Day' - The poppiest song on "SLH" and is strongly in the vein of the previous album's `Shimmer'; but this song is slower and is sung with a bit more emotion.I think the lyrics are great and give the song a realistic and easily relatable message.Very melodic and pretty, and the softly attractive solo help to make this song the gem that it is.This song, as well as the album closer, are the most ballad-like tracks on the entire record, and I've never ever met a FUEL ballad that I didn't LOVE.5/5

6 - `Prove' - FETCH YES.This song ROCKS.A big, FAT, meaty riff crunches out from the dust, so loud, so heavy... wailing guitars fly in as a riff counterpart, and then comes Brett's haunting vocals with a massively haunting melody that goes beyond anything FUEL had previously done(similar to the mood of `Mary Pretends' from "Sunburn" and `Quarter' from "Natural Selection").The album's namesake comes from the last line of the chorus:"... and prove to me...you're SOMETHING LIKE HUMAN!!!"Awesome, awesome song, one of the best rockin' tracks of FUEL's career.5/5

7 - `Easy' - A slow, almost surreally menacing song that boils with intensity all the way through.Very rhythmic percussion on this song, and the ridiculously intricate bassline from Jeff Abercrombie brings such a constant, unreal vibe to the song's sound that I just find incredible.The song's structure reminds me vaguely of `Hideaway' from the last album, and while the vocals are very subdued and quite, they again contribute to the foreboding tone.Quiet, desperate, strange guitar effects fill the last 30 sec. or so of the song, leading into the next track's setting and mood perfectly.4.5/5

8 - `Down' - The bizarrely spooky effects quickly melt into a driving bass, with wildly erratic drums and a chaotic guitar solo rising solidly from beneath . . . an then BOOM!A huge metal riff explodes from the darkness and is simply, irresistibly AWESOME.The overall mood feels and sounds like a ALICE IN CHAINS track, the main difference being in the vocals.This is probably as close to actually screaming in a song as Brett Scallions has ever gotten, but even then the song remains musically intelligent.Those who have only heard the poppie singles from FUEL would never in a million years imagine the band capable of something like this.It's the heaviest, loudest, angriest piece in the band's three-album history, and is EXTREMELY well done.5/5

9 - `Solace' - This song, while not incredible, remains just a little underrated.Musically, it's like a watered-down version of `Mary Pretends'(I keep referring to that song) --or is at least reminiscent of the music to that track.Not an amazing vocal melody, but they ARE strongly delivered and interesting.The lyrics are very introspective: "and all the finer things they laid upon my table...[I] smiled as their hooks were slowly sinking in".Again, while it's not altogether strict perfection, I've still fallen in love with it.Like every other FUEL song.4/5

10 - `Knives' - Probably the worst song on the album, and yet it still gets 4 stars.Why, you ask?Well, as can be ascertained by this review, FUEL is very consistent at writing very good vocal melodies and great musical themes.This song is no different.Not as inspiring as the rest of the album, but vocally strong and musically active are the elements that work in all FUEL's songs.A fun song that, again, reminds me of those old "Sunburn" days!LOVE to sing along!4/5

11 - `Innocent' - Earlier in the review, I made a statement about `Hemorrhage' being the major point of maturation and growth for FUEL.Forgive me; that honor belongs to this song.The lyrics, bar none, are the greatest that Carl Bell has ever written: "Angels, lend me your might... forfeit all my lives to get just one right..."The quiet riff FEELS sooo blatantly mournful; the whole song BLEEDS with emotion.The vocals are PERFECT, the music's PERFECT, everything is just PERFECT.If not for `Hemorrhage', this would be the greatest song of FUEL's career.Period.6/5

12 - `Slow' - Interesting computer-drumming intro to this near-acoustic song.The lyrics make me think about plant-life: "everything I fought to grow is withered, hanging on that vine", but they're gorgeous nonetheless.Brett sounds so honest in this lovely, lovely singing melody and the gentle solo on the bridge is so simple and pretty.Kevin Miller's drumming is impeccably brilliant, and I love the vibe that Jeff gives off from his bass throughout the song.The slowest, softest song on the album, it reminds me a teency-weency bit of the title track off "Sunburn".And for those who don't know, that's a very, very good thing.5/5

The first time I heard this album, I would NEVER have given it five stars.Never.But time changed my tune, and I now admit that my absolute favorite album.And though time my not fully convince everybody, just know that it's an album that you simply cannot be without.Or, an album that you SHOULDN'T be without.Either way, just get it and live a full, happy life in nirvanian bliss till the end of thine days.(Check out "Sunburn" and "Natural Selection" as well.Great, great albums.)

One of the best albums ever made!
This is easily one of the best albums of all time! (yes it is that good) That is really saying something considering that I own over 400 cds. I feel that this album is better than Natural Selection (a great work, especially "These Things") and a little bit better than Sunburn (be sure to get that album next if you like SLH).Songs like "Prove", "Down", "Empty Spaces", "Last Time", "Scar" and "Easy" are some of the best I've ever heard.After several listens, you begin to realize just how complexly perfect every song is. Fuel plays great pure rock music with multiple awesome riffs placed perfectly together.Masterful guitar solos also fill the album (a rarity these days).Also, Bret Scallions sings with the same raw emotion as some the all time greats. (Chris Cornell, Layne Staley)This album is probably much harder than you might expect because unfortunately the radio only seems to play their mid-tempo ballads.Don't get me wrong though, "Hemorrhage", "Innocent" and "Bad Day" are great songs that complement the album very well but I like the other songs even better.Fuel seems to get unjustly compared with bands like Matchbox 20 (who I don't like much at all) when they sound more like Stone Temple Pilots, Oleander, or a more up beat Alice In Chains.Anyway, I have really enjoyed this album, listening to it straight through many more times than I can count. My only complaint is that I wish the guitar solos and songs in general were longer.The stuff on the radio isn't even their best, get this CD if you want to seriously rock out! ... Read more

Asin: B00004YC03
Subjects:  1. Alternative Metal    2. Alternative Pop/Rock    3. Hard Rock    4. Pop    5. Post-Grunge    6. Rock   

Atomic
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (16 October, 2001)
list price: $13.98
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Reviews (71)

Two Stars for Two Good Songs
There are only two good songs on this album: Something to Someone and Everything's Cool.After hearing My Own Worst Enemy on the radio dozens of times I decided to give the band a try.The store I went to didn't have the CD with that song on it, but this one was only $5.88 so I bought it.What a dissapointment.You can tell the band didn't even put much effort into this album because there isn't even a booklet to go with it, there's just a paper with the tracklisting on it.I will admit that all the songs are catchy but they're also entirely shallow and generic.This CD was a big dissapointment.

what happened?
this cd is a major letdown especially in contrast to their excellent album, a place in the sun. the songs on atomic are boring and redundant and simply do not display the talent that they showed on their previous effort. it may grow on me will more listening, but i dont foresee that. its a good thing i only paid $5.88 for it!

Generic pop-rock, but catchy as all hell
Looking around at all these 5 star reviews leads me to believe that alotta people out there don't understand the rating system. 5 star reviews are reserved for albums that are flawless, albums that have tons of replay value, and albums that surpass anything else even similar in it's genre. Lit's "atomic" has none of those things, but that doesn't mean its bad either. If your a die hard pop-punk/pop-rock fan, then by all means give this one a shot. However, if you're just getting into pop-punk, try blink 182, Sr-71, American Hi-fi or Mest first. "atomic" may be catchy, but thats about it.

Standout Tracks Include: Everything to everyone, Lipstick and bruises, Everything's cool and The Last Time Again.

Album Flaws: None really, because except for the fact that every track is generic, "atomic" is pretty solid. ... Read more

Asin: B00005Q3AA
Sales Rank: 84776
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Pop    3. Post-Grunge    4. Rock   

Echoes: The Best of Pink Floyd
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (06 November, 2001)
list price: $29.98 -- our price: $26.99
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Editorial Review

Echoes is a double-CD collection of some of Pink Floyd's bestsongs. It's also a fascinating document of the band's history. They began lifeas Syd Barrett'sphantasmagoric plaything before clasping the wings of Icarus and ascendingtoward the sun on an epic space-rock odyssey, eventually turning left once theyreached the dark side of the moon and burning up on reentry, crash-landing onevery earthlings' home hi-fi. And it's all here--30 years of the Floyd's awesomeback catalog trimmed down to two handsome CDs. It's worth remembering that,despite a fondness for pyrotechnics, Pink Floyd were never a prog-rock band.Sure, some of their songs are a bit long, and they never released singles (atleast not for 11 years), but the same could be said for Led Zeppelin. Clinicallydevoid of the faux-classical overtures and vainglorious musicianship of thatera, Pink Floyd were a pole apart; Meddle's epic maritime tone poem"Echoes" remains the Floyd's apogee. But here, on this collection, "thealbatross" which "hangs motionless upon the air" has had its wings clipped--seven full minutes are missing, but you'd never be able to tell. The sonarbleeps, the screeching seagulls, the howling winds are all retained, and whoeverwielded the editorial axe, Eugene, did so carefully.

Interestingly, the album's nonchronological track listing works--thesummery, childhood enchantment of "See Emily Play" is right next to the schooldiscipline of "Happiest Days of Our Lives"--and at least this way no one willswitch off when material from A Momentary Lapse of Reason comes around.Despite the curious omission of "Atom Heart Mother," this really is the verybest of the Floyd--from the throbbing "One of These Days" to the pop operatic"Great Gig in the Sky" to the genius silvery fluidity of Dave Gilmour's guitarwork. This is timeless, as many members of Sigur Rós, Radiohead, and the Beta Band will attest. --Kevin Maidment ... Read more

Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (368)

pink floyd
This echoes, double cd is worth the money, but if you already own almost all pink floyd CD's then don't bother with this.


The only down fall with this is that there's 2 good songs they didn't put on either of those CD's which is DOGS OF WAR and ONE SLIP. But other than that I have nothing to complain bout it.

A Great Anthology for a Band That Can't Be Anthologized
"Echoes" is a 2-CD Pink Floyd set that leans heavily on their mid 1970s glory period. Most of the Pink Floyd songs still heard in classic rock rotation can be found here, and this set is a good choice for newer fans who want to learn a little more about the band. This is *not* the Compleat Pink Floyd, nor does it claim to be. It's simply a collection of some of their best known tracks, just as "Remasters" was a collection of some of Led Zeppelin's best material. Instead, we are treated to some of Floyd's moodiest pieces, along with some of Dave Gilmour's unforgetable solos. At their best, Pink Floyd excelled at melding British songwriting craft to both heavy psychedelic rock and mellower blues/jazz.

Some of the longer songs on "Echoes" are re-edited, which will annoy some purists and delight collectors who simply must have all the alternative mixes. Special care was taken in sequencing the songs on the CDs; songs from different albums appear right after one another, giving the songs a novelty and freshness they haven't had for a while. The sequencing also disguises the fact that early Floyd was recorded on primitive 4-track, late Floyd was recorded on multi-track, and mid-period Floyd was recorded by Alan Parsons on 16-track equipment.

You won't find obscure material from Floyd's late 1960s soundtracks, or several late 1960s songs such as "Saucerful of Secrets" or "Careful with that Axe Eugene". Also missing are some 1980s hits like "On the Turning Away" and "One Slip." Oddly enough, the very well-known "Breathe" and "Brain Damage/Eclipse" from the "Dark Side of the Moon" album are missing.

If you're looking for a Floyd Anthology, this is really your only choice. Diehard Floydians will want to pass this one over in favor of buying the entire Floyd catalogue, but more casual fans might only want this and perhaps one or two of Floyd's 1970s albums. The choice is yours, as all of Floyd's key albums are still in print and readily available.

a great compilation from a superb band
echoes is a fantastic compilation from this legendary rock band.it contains all their big hits like another brick in the wall,comfortably numb,time,money and more.an absolute must in every rock fans collection.get this along with forty licks from the rolling stones .but please avoid the compilation from the awful teen pop boy band the backstreet boys ... Read more

Asin: B00005QDW5
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. British Psychedelia    3. Hard Rock    4. Pop    5. Prog-Rock/Art Rock    6. Psychedelic    7. Rock   

Heartbreaker
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (05 September, 2000)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $13.99
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Editorial Review

Heartbreaker opens with an argument about a Morrissey song before the band kicks into the sloppy and rollicking "To Be Young (Is to Be Sad, Is to Be High)," and certainly the gloomster's self-referential sadness hangs over Ryan Adams's songs. But Adams, the notoriously raucous frontman for the defunct Whiskeytown, is a country boy at heart if not in attitude, so there is a lingering pastoral beauty that imbues the album with a happy sweetness as well. That, along with Ryan's expressive, gravelly voice (equal parts Paul Westerberg and Merle Haggard), gives Heartbreaker enduring power. --Tod Nelson ... Read more

Reviews (115)

Doesn't get much better
Heartbreaker is one of those albums, no matter what music you like, no matter if you think anything that has the word "country" in the genre must be junk (it's alt-country, whatever that means), you will find yourself unable to turn off.
This is the album to listen to when happy or sad, heartbroken or in love.It's a cautionary tale wrapped in pure beauty.
Ryan Adams has never written a song greater than "Come Pick Me Up":biting anger sung through defeated words with the accompanionment of the haunting harmonica.Beautiful.
This is the album to own if you've been interested in Adams or the genre but not certain.This will make you a believer.
In my opinion, this album comes 2nd only to Radiohead's OK Computer (what both albums have in common is flawless songwriting).

too many reviews!
i traded in my copy of _gold_ for a used copy of this, and never has a music fan acted more justly. this record's collection of spare, emotional, clever songs is ryan adam's greatest accomplishment so far in his career, and may well continue to be throughout the rest of it.

It's amazing he USED to sound like this.
This album, along with Pneumonia, are Ryan Adams' two best accomplishments.Heartbreaker is one of the reasons alternative country is so popular today.The album does run a little long, and his best work is on the first half of the album.However, this barely takes away from its quality.My favorite songs on the album (if you're interested) are "Winding Wheel" and "Come Pick Me Up."

It's unfortunate that Ryan Adams' new albums are such rubbish.I guess some artists who "have it" can just "lose it." ... Read more

Asin: B00004XSKU
Subjects:  1. Alternative Country-Rock    2. Alternative Pop/Rock    3. American Trad Rock    4. Americana    5. Country-Rock    6. Pop    7. Rock   

Gold
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 September, 2001)
list price: $13.98 -- our price: $9.99
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Editorial Review

Torrential creativity has fast-forwarded the artistic evolution of former Whiskeytown frontman Ryan Adams from country-rock boy wonder (see Faithless Street) to despondent troubadour with a 1960s fixation (his solo debut Heartbreaker), but it may also explain why listeners often need to wade through some pedestrian material just to find a few pearls of poetic excellence. Gold is no exception to that trend, a sometimes engaging middle-of-the-road roots-pop album that's both overlong (70 minutes) and at times overindulgent. There are high spots--such as the bouncy, breezy opener "New York, New York" and the plaintive ballad "When the Stars Go Blue" (which features a vocal turn reminiscent of Morrissey)--but much of the disc gets lost in forests of indistinct guitars and plodding percussion that never nudges Adams into actually rocking. Gold is the work of a notoriously prolific songwriter who hasn't yet learned to play to his strengths, one whose execution doesn't yet match his vision. --Anders Smith Lindall ... Read more

Reviews (131)

Amazing
I want to go on and on about this album and about Ryan Adams himself but I think I'm going to keep it simple and just say that this album is absolutely incredible.It's one of the best albums I own and, being a music fanatic, that's saying something.

yet another letdown.
Generally speaking I like Ryan's voice.When he tries to put some grease on it he reminds me a bit of Steve Earle and that's a good thing.When he stops worrying about overcomplicating his songs and not worrying so much about things(like on "Demolition") he's just dandy, but when he tries too hard he ends up stinking up the joint like only Adam Duritz from the Counting Crows can.

Anders Smith Lindall is quite right when he says that "Adams hasn't yet learned to play to his strengths and that his execution doesn't yet match his vision".For him to overcome this the formula should be "Less Duritz, more Dylan" but that's not what's happening on Gold.Most of the music here is as carefully contrived as Ryan's new $100 haircut. It takes money, time and a special kind of talent to make something look like it ain't, but I know plastic when I see it.The music on this is nowhere near as smart and honest as Will Oldham's "Bonnie Prince Billy Sings Greatest Palace Music" or Bruce Springsteen's "Nebraska" and that's what's keeping this from being filed in the "good" category.

Adams holds some promise.Some of his previous work is charming and good enough to make you want to believe in him but right now his ever growing popularity is enjoying an inversely proportional relationship with the quality of his work.I hope he finds his way the next time around.

Behind Enemy Lines?
It is not unlikely that a person who purchases this album does so because apparently it is no longer available the soundtrack of the movie "Behind Enemy Lines" starring Gene Hackman, a movie that has a terrific soundtrack.
On newsgroups can be learned that one of those songs, the one at the end of the movie, would have been Ryan Adam's "The Rescue Blues".

Be careful: if you arrived to this cd with that intention in mind and that Rock in mind, the track in this album titled "the Rescue Blue" might not be what you assumed or hoped for. If you have in mind that terrific music at the end of the movie, and if onnewsgroups you are being told it is this one, well, simply: that movie song you are thinking of is not the one listed here as "the Rescue Blues". Simply.

Aside from that as long as you like Ryan Adams, the cd can be good, but if (I said if) you want to buy this cd hoping to find that song from that movie soundtrack, you'd waste (not too much though) money, that is. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QY5Y
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Demolition
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (24 September, 2002)
list price: $13.98 -- our price: $13.98
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Editorial Review

Former Whiskeytown frontman Ryan Adams claims to have written and recorded enough songs over the past several years to fill a four-CD collection--and that's in addition to his acclaimed 2001 breakthrough Gold. Wisely, Adams decided to skip the box set--hey, he's only 27--and issue a sort of "best of" compilation comprising 13 unreleased demos. Recorded at four different studio sessions in Nashville, Los Angeles, and Stockholm, with a cast of musicians that includes his road band the Pinkhearts, Gillian Welch, David Rawlings, Ethan Johns, Chris Stills, Bucky Baxter, and Greg Leisz, Demolition proves that Adams is still a work in progress: brilliant one moment, sloppy the next. When he's good, he's very good: the rousing country-rocker "Hallelujah," the brooding acoustic ballads "Dear Chicago" and "Tomorrow," and the jangly power-pop number "Gimme a Sign" are as fine as anything on Gold. But Adams sometimes lapses into mimicry, as he does on "Nuclear" and "Starting to Hurt," both of which could be outtakes from a U2 album. "Tennessee Sucks," a chronicle of a boredom-filled summer day in Nashville, sounds half-baked, while the closing track, "Jesus (Don't Touch My Baby)," which finds Adams (on synthesizer, guitars, bass, and drum machine) droning on like Leonard Cohen, falls in the "failed experiment" category. Despite its bright spots, Demolition ultimately comes off as a mixed bag. --David Hill ... Read more

Reviews (63)

Demolition & Construction
Ryan Adams `Demolition'


`Demolition' is Ryan's collection of demo's "left over" from the various recording sessions in Nashville, Los Angeles and Stockholm circa `Gold'. Indeed, this album seems to be the flipside of his second album proper and is best described as `a bit of a mixed bag, but mostly good'. On the record he works with backing band the Pinkhearts, Gillian Welch, `Heartbreaker' collaborator David Rawlings, `Heartbreaker' and `Gold' producer Ethan Johns, Carrie Hamilton Chris Stills, Bucky Baxter and Greg Leisz.

Tracks include the pleasant country tracks, but mildly disappointing, `Desire' and `Hallelujah', which is nothing more than a second rate `Firecracker' from `Gold'. In contrast, acoustic ditties such as the Nick Drake-like `You Will Always Be The Same' and the brilliant and emotive `Cry On Demand' rank among Adams' best work. The albums highlight is `Tomorrow', and the fact that it was co-written with Carrie Hamilton, a friend of Ryan's who appears on the sleeve of `Gold' who later died from cancer, makes the song seem even more touching. It is a beautiful solo acoustic track with excellent duel vocals from Ryan and Gillian Welch. Elsewhere, `Jesus (Don't Touch My Baby)', although one of the weaker tracks on the album, is another emotional song about when the author first found out about Carrie Hamilton's cancer.

Other highlights include lead single `Nuclear' is an excellent opener which ranks with Ryan's best songs, and `Starting To Hurt' is a bass-line lead rocker about a woman jumping from the top of a building, which is another touching moment once you know the story behind the song. However, for every good track, there is one which disappoints. `Gimme A Sign' is pedestrian and easily forgotten, and `Tennessee Sucks' is quite nice but again not very memorable. However, considering that this is a collection of "unfinished demo's" (which is hard to believe when you listen to this record) then these are only minor flaws, as `She Wants To Plays Hearts', `Dear Chicago' and `Chin Up, Cheer Up' are all welcome on the record.

Therefore, not as complete as his previous two "proper" studio albums but at only 13 tracks it makes it a bit easier to listen to than the 16 tracks of `Gold'. As far as albums go, this isn't bad at all, but as far as demo collections go, this is excellent. Another essential Ryan Adams record.

Fans Only
In 2001, Adams released Gold, a great alt-country record that balanced those two usually paradoxical genres of music and conjured beautiful images of being young and heartbreakingly in love. This year it feels like he's lost a little energy.
Although tracks like (Track 2) and "Cry on Demand" are great songs, most of the rest of the album seems to be lacking some of the spunk that made Gold sound and feel so wide open and fun. Most of the tracks here suffer from too much mope. Take (Track 7) for instance which sounds like a horrible country B-side from Pablo Honey. Don't even get me started on (Track 13), five minutes of needless guitar dissonance and incoherent mumbling.
The album is entitled Demolition, meaning that songs are meant to be taken as demos. I'm not sure what they would have sounded like "finished", but chances are that it would have been more enjoyable. For fans only.

Not that good
Bottom line is this is an album that should not have been released to the public yet. The recordings are also very bare which would be okay if this was "Let it Be: Naked" but it's not even close.So the songs which are already bad, suffer from simplistic intstrumentation.There isn't one song on here that's gonna grab you and hit you in the chest and make you say, "I'm so glad I got this CD". Look I love Ryan Adams and I'm a song-writer/singer myself and I think he's one of the best song-writers ever, but these songs are so forgettable. There is nothing to remember about it. So instead of this get Rock n Roll (if you like upbeat rock), Gold (if you like a mix of everything), or Heartbreaker (if you wanna feel what being sad is like through music and lyrics.) ... Read more

Asin: B00006IRHZ
Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Alternative Country-Rock    3. Pop    4. Rock    5. Singer/Songwriter   

Pneumonia
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (22 May, 2001)
list price: $13.98 -- our price: $13.98
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Editorial Review

In their brief, volatile tenure as a working band--which spawned just two proper albums, Faithless Street (1995) and Strangers Almanac (1997)--Whiskeytown never quite fulfilled their considerable promise. But prior to their ultimate split, the band made a record that was buried for nearly three years by industry snafus. Pneumonia was well worth the wait. The band's final lineup (singer and songwriter Ryan Adams, violinist Caitlin Cary, and guitarist Mike Daly) is augmented by special guests such as Tommy Stinson of theReplacements and James Iha of Smashing Pumpkins. Sure, Adams doesn't quite grasp what he's reaching for on the Latin-tinged "Paper Moon," and "Sit & Listen to the Rain" is about as exciting as its title suggests. But "Jacksonville Skyline," a hometown ode that's sweetly nostalgic but hardly naive, easily ranks among Adams's best ballads. And don't bother trying to elude the hooks of the bouncy kiss-off "Don't Wanna Know Why" or the polished piano pop of "Mirror, Mirror." While it's unfortunate that the reliably unreliable Whiskeytown didn't live to see the release of their most consistent disc, Pneumonia is a harbinger of still better things to come from both Adams and Cary. --Anders Smith-Lindall ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Several hits, a few misses...
I gave this album 2 years to sink in with me and I can't say it's as good as FAITHLESS STREET, but it is still an excellent album.My favorite tracks are "Jacksonville Skyline," "What the Devil Wanted," and "Reason To Lie."I think slapping the alt/country label on this one would be a bit unfair.There is a wide variety of music on this cd because Ryan Adams is a great songwriter.

Swan Song
By the time PNEUMONIA had been recorded, Whiskeytown had been through a number of changes. The band started to break up while touring for their STRANGERS ALMANAC album. The only members who were from the original group that appear on this disc were lead vocalist Ryan Adams and Caitlin Cary. Other members on this disc included Mike Daly, Ethan Johns, with James Iha and Tommy Stinson appearing on a few tracks.

The album is very different from the bands first two. There's no real loud rockers, or the country twang of certain songs you'd find on their first two albums. Instead this sounds more like a Ryan Adams solo album in some ways. Still, this is their most ambitious effort.

There's some great pop moments like "Mirror Mirror", and "Dno't Be Sad". "What The Devil Wanted" is a haunting song, and "Crazy About You" is a low key ballad. The album proved that Ryan Adams had matured in his songwriting, and overall music. Other highlights include "Reasons To Lie", "Don't Wanna Know Why", "Sit And Listen To The Rain", "My Hometown", and many others.

This album was recorded in 1999, but not released until 2001 because the Outpost label folded. Nevertheless, it's a fine piece of music, and one of their best. It's a fine swan song for the band, it makes one wonder if it had been originally released in 1999 what would have happened to the band, or if they would have even still been together.

beautiful pop
This album will put a smile on your face. You feel like kicking back on your front porch,sipping julep, and waving to the neighbors with gun racks on their trucks. All the tracks on here are gorgeously crafted pieces of alt-country pop. There is none of the hard punk influence that would inform some of Ryan's later stuff, just melodic and delightful. Possibly the best whiskeytown has to offer, and some of the best pop that you will never hear on the radio. ... Read more

Asin: B00005B8GT
Subjects:  1. Alternative Country-Rock    2. Alternative Pop/Rock    3. Americana    4. Pop    5. Rock   

Satellite Rides
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (20 March, 2001)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $14.99
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Editorial Review

As with Fight Songs, the 1999 predecessor to Satellite Rides, the Old 97's are ringing a poppy bell. The cover art has a retro 1960s vibe, and the chiming guitars echo that sentiment. Is it 1960s Britpop? A tad, but singer Rhett Miller has a vocal palette that runs from 1980s new wave-leaning alternative to a more scouring, acidic country yowl. He uses his range well. The twang here is more subtle than in the past, cloaked in big rave-up melodies (like the fine single "King of All the World") and heart-on-the-sleeve emotions (as on "Question"). Some of the latter are great, particularly the poppy "Do you wanna mess around" refrain in "Buick City Complex." Miller runs down a seriously twangin' gem on "Am I Too Late," and bassist Murry Hammond does the same on his brooding "Up the Devil's Pay," which ranks as one of the CD's highest marks. What the Old 97's have done with this session is push themselves further away from their original alt-country heartbeat--much the way Jeff Tweedy did after Uncle Tupelo once he had Wilco as his platform. --Andrew Bartlett ... Read more

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Reviews (57)

Reminds me of Wilco's poppier moments
This is my first contact with the Old 97's so I can't compare to other releases which I gather leaned harder to the alt-country sound than this one. The frequently chiming guitars and singalong choruses on many of the songs here make me think of it as more "power pop" than alt-country, though there's enough twang still in evidence to see their roots. "Designs on you" is about a 50/50 synthesis of twang and pop.

HIGHLIGHTS:
"Rollerskate Skinny" lodges its hook in your brain within a few plays. "Question" is little more than Rhett Miller's voice and a guitar and as such it's perfect to capture that moment when you ask someone to share their life with you ("Someday somebody's gonna ask you/A question that you should say yes to/Once in your life/Maybe tonight I've got a question for you"). "Am I Too Late?" appears to be a throwback to the old alt-country song, an uptempo stomper celebrating Rhett's late grandmother. "Can't Get a Line" is the 97's at their most Beatlesque.

LOWS:
Despite the beautiful "ghostly" vocals on the intro and scattered throughout, in the end "Up the Devil's Pay" doesn't have enough lyrical oomph to stick with you. "What I Wouldn't Do" is a pretty good pop song but it feels half-baked. Where are the harmonies on the hook? What should have been Beatlesque just ends up ho-hum.

BOTTOM LINE:
In power pop, you live and die by the choruses. In the end, the number of "can't help but sing along" songs doesn't place this among the upper echelon of power pop, but there's enough to recommend it for power pop fiends. Those who aren't as genre minded will probably find this album to be good but not great.

Whiny...
This album can't hold a candle to thier earlier releases WRECK YOUR LIFE, TOO FAR TO CARE, or HITCHHIKE TO RHOME!This is alt/country/pop.Or poop as I like to call it.Sold the album on ebay!What happened to the real stuff fellas??

This CD proves to Rock fans that they can like Country also
Rock-a-billy/blue grass twang rock with an alt pop sensibility.

If you have a rock fan who thinks they could never like country music, this is the disc to prove them wrong. Great songs from the 1st cut to the last.

Sure, hard core Old 97s fans think this is too commercial -- but if it turns you on to their great music (Too Far to Care, Wreck Your Life, Hitchhike To Rhome) then who cares?   

Old 97s vocalist Rhett Miller's also released a solo effort (The Instigator); The single --Come Around -- was on an episode of Scrubs. ... Read more

Asin: B000059ZHP
Subjects:  1. Alternative Country-Rock    2. Americana    3. Pop    4. Pop Underground    5. Power Pop    6. Rock   

Orange County
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (18 December, 2001)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $11.98
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Editorial Review

The nouveau Orange County, California, punk legacy kick-starts the soundtrack to Jake Kasdan's updated teen-hell comedy. The Offspring's newly recorded "Defy You" energetically explores their roots, and Social Distortion offer a live version of their trademark "Story of My Life." But that OC focus quickly gives way to a broad, buoyant collection of punk and hip-hop-inflected pop that includes a Green Day-ish new track by Foo Fighters ("The One") and equally hooky cuts by Cake, Lit, Bad Ronald, Quarashi, and Crazy Town. The album's emotional and musical shadings come courtesy of Pete Yorn's subdued "Lose You," the acoustic "Under the Tracks" by Creeper Lagoon, and Phantom Planet's anthemic "California," as well as a welcome pair of tracks ("Lay Down Burden," "Love and Mercy") by original SoCal Sound legend Brian Wilson. First pressings of the album also include a four-track bonus disc with songs by Zebrahead (the appropriate "O.C. Life"), Ill Kidd, the Ataris, and Riddlin' Kids. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

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• Soundtrack

Reviews (29)

Amazing Soundtrack
When I saw the movie Orange County, it immediately became one of my favorite movies. I decided to get this soundtrack, mainly because I enjoyed the songs from the movie. I got everything I expected, and more. There is not a bad song on here, and the music on this ranges from rap to pop to punk. This is like the perfect mixtape. This CD is definitely worth the money, considering I bought this more than a year ago and am still listening to it. The standout tracks include Shadow Stabbing, Love and Mercy, Everything's Cool, Lose You, and my personal favorite, Glad That It's Over.

music person
I thought this was an awsome cd. I my self grew up in orange county, and thought the movie was hilarious, and the sound track was even better. one of my favorite songs was 12 rods "glad that its over", depicting much of my teen age years. there are many other wonderful songs on the sound track as well, such as california by Phantom Planet(also one of my favorites. there were even tracks i did not like, but were tolerable because it was such a great sound track. I highly recommend it to anyone who will listen.

Sugarbomb Track
That Sugarbomb song "Hello" is excellent, and as an added bonus it is used in the same exact situation in "National Lampoon's Van Wilder."Both movies fade to the credits with this song.

Up there with the song at the end of Hackers for better fade out songs. ... Read more

Asin: B00005U2LI
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. Rap-Rock    5. Soundtracks    6. Soundtracks & Film Scores   

Will the Circle Be Unbroken, Vol. 3
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 October, 2002)
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Editorial Review

In the early '70s, the original Circle teamed the Dirt Band, a group of longhaired young country-rockers, with several country and bluegrass legends. In an era of polarization between young and old, it introduced countless baby boomers to that music, paving the way for the recent triumph of the O Brother, Where Art Thou soundtrack. This time, the Dirt Band reunites with Jimmy Martin, Earl Scruggs, and Doc Watson, veterans of the first Circle, and adds a host of other country, folk, and bluegrass greats. Despite several stellar performances, among them Del McCoury's bracing "Take Me in Your Lifeboat" and Martin's snappy re-creation of his 1950s favorite "Save It, Save It," most of what's here is merely pleasant. Attempts to replicate the feel of the original, complete with copious between-take studio chitchat and an acoustic guitar coda by Randy Scruggs, come off a bit self-conscious and forced. The original Circle remains a landmark, but in a time when cameo appearances and cross-generation collaborations are so common--Nashville calls them Vocal Events--what was once a unique concept often seems anticlimactic and mundane. --Rich Kienzle ... Read more

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Reviews (28)

great music if you can tolerate the religious songs
Some excellent pickin' and a wide variety of styles make this a record that people who don't normally like that twangy, twangy country sound will find quite rocking. Unfortunately there is a lot of religious content which some might find objectionable-should there be a warning label on the cover? I find that if you just think they are saying "cheeses" every time someone says jesus it is much less objectionable.

Stands Tall Alongside the Original
My life-long love affair with rock 'n' roll began in 1964 when I was eleven and bought MEET THE BEATLES.My love affair with bluegrss music, however, was nurtured by the 1972 release of the classic WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN.Three decades later, the awe and excitement is still there for volume three.

With the idea of putting together an album filled with guest star artists is no longer unique, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (with banjo wizard John McEuen back in tow) do a stellar job of bringing together a multi-generational array of talent. Earl Scruggs, Jimmy Martin and Doc Watson are on hand from the original project.In addition, June Carter Cash provides lead vocals and autoharp on the "Mother" Maybelle Carter classic "Diamonds in the Rough."

Of the artists new to the WTCBU project, Del McCoury and his sons Robbie and Ronnie and Alison Krauss are the only real bluegrass artists.The others are primarily country artists, like Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakam and Vince Gill. Consequently, some of the songs (like the Willie Nelson/Tom Petty duet on the Leadbelly standard "Goodnight Irene" and Taj Mahal's "Fishin' Blues") can't really be considered bluegrass.It appears that for this third volume, the NGDB took a cue from the O Brother Where Art Thou? soundtrack and instead of confining song selection exclusively tobluegrass, they chose songs that might better be described as Americana.

While volume three may not have matched the impossibly high standards set by the original volume, it isn't far behind.Every song is pure joy, and I hope there are a couple more volumes in the series yet to come.HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

My Favorite, So Far
I've read several negative reviews of this album, which make no sense to me at all.I bought this one first, then Vol I (everybody's favorite, it seems).After getting used to this album, Vol I seems pretty cornball in comparison.The production on this album is so much richer.I do miss Mother Mabelle Carter, but some of the additions on this one more than make up for her absence.Most notably, Alison Krauss, Taj Mahal, Iris Dement, Jaime Hanna and Jonathan McEuen bring to this disc a far much more contemporary and less "twangy" feel than traditional bluegrass.I could've done without the Willie Nelson/Tom Petty duet (pretty awful) and the trite Vince Gill song "All Prayed Up".Otherwise, this sets a standard for other contemporary bluegrass makers to emulate. ...