Sunflower/Surf's Up
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Audio CD (18 July, 2000)
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Editorial Review

After an acrimonious split with their original record label at the end of the 1960s, the Beach Boys moved over to Warner Bros., ostensibly to capitalize on their phenomenal early successes. But the move also coincided with band founder/creative genius Brian Wilson's burgeoning health problems and subsequent artistic abdication. That the boys were able to come up with what remain two of their more interesting albums is an enduring testament to the band's willpower. Sunflower, originally released in 1970, was a drastically revamped version of an unreleased album called Landlocked, and has an upbeat consistency that both built on the band's vocal strengths and somehow overcame schmaltzy pop and even the embarrassing, halting espanole of "At My Window." Perhaps the album's greatest revelation is the brief flowering of Dennis Wilson as a writing and singing talent, especially on the lovely "Forever." With Dennis largely succumbing to older brother Brian's demons, '71's Surf's Up is marred by cloddish efforts at agit-prop hipsterism (Mike Love's "Student Demonstration Time") and a nascent environmentalism that ranges from the naïve ("Don't Go Near the Water") to the bizarre ("A Day in the Life of a Tree"). Carl Wilson rescues the collection somewhat with "Long Promised Road" and "Feel Flows," but the album's twin jewels are both salvaged Brian Wilson efforts--the title track was one of the centerpieces of the unreleased Smile (cowritten by lyricist Van Dyke Parks and here given that album's "Child Is Father to the Man" as a glorious coda), while "Til I Die" hails from the scrapped Landlocked and remains one of Brian's most hauntingly introspective works. Both albums have been remastered on a single disc and include new liner notes by Wilson biographer Timothy White. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (81)

The great forgotten Beach Boys album plus "Surf's Up"
In England, the Beach Boys continued to be well-received post "Pet Sounds". Here in the U.S. they were dead commercially. The album reached #151 in their homeland, with its most "successful" song commercially, "Add Some Music to Your Day" peaking at #67, well out of the pop charts. It's too bad because it's the band's most successful album artistically in terms of working as a unit.

The followup, "Surf's Up", was the band's attempt to regain their credibility with the FM rock radio crowd and while not as good an album overall as "Sunflower", it contains arguably the single finest Beach Boys effort ever.

HIGHLIGHTS:
Brian's "This Whole World" is absolutely breathtaking in its innocence with great group vocals, particularly at the "Oom bop dit-dit" coda. "Add Some Music to your Day" may be the best tribute to the life quality enhancing value of music ever written. Rocker "It's about Time" blends some screachin' lead guitar and driving drums with an out-of-left field bridge that mark this as one of Dennis' best compositions. The most notable emergence on the album, though, is that of Bruce Johnston's. His melancholy "Tears in the Morning" uses interesting arrangement touches (accordion and Spanish tinged guitar and a reverb drenched piano coda) alongside a great lyric, Dennis' "Forever" has made its way into Beach Boy lovers weddings with good reason...it's one of his best ballads and a nice vocal performance.

"Surf's Up" shows Carl emerging with the gritty optimism of "Long Promised Road" (co-written with then manager Jack Rieley). The song ALMOST cause me to forgive Rieley for his faux pas later (See "LOWS"). The track really kicks in from the instrumental bridge where the trombonish sound (it's probably a Moog synth) duels with the guitar. "Take Good Care of Your Feet" is good silly fun that hides a rather avant garde production (phased vocals, heavily echoed cowbells, etc.) "Disney Girls (1957)" is Bruce's finest piece of writing ever. It's a perfect evocation of the innocence of the 50s...particularly the "Hi Rick and Dave" section. "Til I Die" is wonderfully melancholy. "Surf's Up", a Brian and Van Dyke Parks penned "SMiLe" leftover with some re-recording, is far and away the best track here: completely pictorial music and surreal lyrics. No "columnated ruins" here...just sheer majesty.

LOWS:
Dennis' "Got to Know the Woman" is a weak lyric coupled with a somewhat painful performance. As much as I like him, this one brings down the album. At the risk of being branded heretical, I'll say that "Cool, Cool Water", a cobbled together "SMiLe" outtake sounds wildly out of place on "Sunflower" and probably takes away from it. It's an astounding vocal performance but the jarring transitions don't fit in with the self-assured melodicism of the rest of the album.

"Surf's Up" could define "uneven" and contains what I consider the band's biggest "rut" ever: "A Day in the Life of a Tree". The lyric is actually good but the 'vocal' from Jack Rieley induces first laughter, then retching. Ugh. "Student Demonstration Time" is every bit as bad as other reviewers say. And more. Consider this couplet as Mike Love attempts to speak eloquently about Kent State's riots ("They said the students scared the Guard, though the troops were battle dressed, Four martyrs earned the new degree: the Bachelor of Bullets").

BOTTOM LINE:
"Sunflower" is flat out great. While not as good as "Pet Sounds", it stands alongside their great 60s albums like "Today!", "Summer Days (and Summer Nights)" or "Friends". "Surf's Up" is more uneven but if you skip the two worst tracks, it's a fine effort as well.

One of the great albums paired with an uneven effort
The material on the two albums is among the best recordings by the Beach Boys-- "Sunflower" is the great overlooked Beach Boys record and "Surf's Up" contains two of Brian Wilson's most powerful compositions, perhaps even the greatest music he has ever written.

"Sunflower" is the unique during this period in that Brian's contributions are heavily felt-- no less than seven of the nine tracks bear his name as composer, while one of them is simply awful ("At My Window", cowritten by Al, with bizarre voiceover and goofy lyrics) and a couple of them are lacking in performance ("Our Sweet Love", cowritten by Carl and Al) or lyrics ("Dierdre", cowritten by Bruce), the remainder of the material is brilliant-- "This Whole World" is a brief r&b-influenced piece with great dry harmonies and a killer lead by Carl, "Add Some Music To Your Day" and "Cool, Cool Water" (the latter being a recycled Smile song) have purely brilliant vocal arrangements, and "All I Wanna Do" is another of those "lost" great works-- incredible vocal delivery by Mike, cascading chorus harmonies, and a really sweet lyric.

The remainder of the album has one Bruce Johnston piece ("Tears in the Morning") and four Dennis Wilson compositions, including the great opening rocker "Slip On Through" and perhaps the best of Dennis' several brilliant love songs, "Forever".He also contributes two fairly straightahead rockers, the lusty "Got to Know the Woman" and another great Carl Wilson lead vocal on "It's About Time".

"Surf's Up" is a weaker album, but closes on a stunning note, two of Brian's great compositions, the absolutely unbelieveable "'Til I Die", quite possibly the best lyric of any Beach Boys song and an incredible vocal delivery to match, and the incomparable "Surf's Up", leftover from Smile."Surf's Up" is just outstanding, the galloping piano rhythms, soaring lead vocal from Carl, and circular vocals over brilliant left hand piano on the "Child is the Father of Man" tag are just breathtaking.

The rest of the album doesn't quite live up to the ending-- Jack Rieley's influence in lyrics is felt, but much of the political/environmental/health consciousness lyrics on this record (Al and Mike's "Don't Go Near the Water", Mike's rewrite of "Riot in Cell Block #9" titled "Student Demonstration Time", Al's "Take a Load Off Your Feet" and "Lookin' at Tomorrow" and Brian's "A Day in the Life of a Tree") feel inauthentic."A Day in the Life of a Tree" is actually quite a nice song, with a really magic tag, but suffers from a really weak lead vocal by Jack Rieley, and "Take a Load Off Your Feet" may well be, in my assessment the worst Beach Boys song of the late '60s/early '70s.There's a strong, although overly sacchrine Bruce contribution ("Disney Girls") and two strong Carl pieces (the great rocker "Long Promised Road" and mid tempo oddity "Feel Flows"), but noticably missing are contributions from Dennis, who pulled his songs after a disagreement.Still, a ten track album with five strong pieces and several decent or interesting ones isn't bad at all.

"Surf's Up"'s unevenness is really made up for by the power of the great songs on there, and "Sunflower" is essential.After Pet Sounds, this is the next Beach Boys stuff to get.

A mind-blowing two-fer on one CD
I would easily pay $30 each for these albums individually on CD.Thanks to the Beach Boys "two-fer" series (one of the great ideas in record label history), you can get them both on one CD for half that price.

It was on 1969's "20/20" that the other Beach Boys began to step out of Brian Wilson's huge shadow.But "Sunflower" and "Surf's Up" showed just how much talent really was present in the greatest musical act of all time.On "Sunflower," Dennis Wilson contributes the breathtaking "Slip on Through" and the heartbreaking "Forever," as well as two lesser, but still enjoyable tracks, "Got to Know the Woman" and "It's About Time."On "Surf's Up," Carl Wilson comes up with his first true solo compositions, and they're both classics of early 70s rock -- "Long Promised Road" and "Feel Flows."Bruce Johnston chips in two perfect pop confections, "Deirdre" and "Disney Girls 1957."Even Al Jardine gets in the act with the generally overlooked gems "At My Window," "Don't Go Near the Water," "Take a Load off Your Feet," and "Looking at Tomorrow."

Brian Wilson is the looming presence over these brilliant albums.It is generally believed he was uninvolved with the production of "Surf's Up" -- except for his own two contributions, "A Day in the Life of a Tree" and "'Til I Die.""'Til I Die" is heartrending, stunning -- an extroardinary, autobiographical song."Tree," to my ear (not all agree), is almost equally brilliant (though I would rather Brian had sung the lead himself instead of giving it to the band's then-manager Jack Rieley, who was not a real singer).Reportedly, the closing track, "Surf's Up," was completed by the Beach Boys from Brian's unfinished SMiLE tapes, but somehow it works, and to my way of thinking this version of the song is one of the ten greatest cuts ever recorded by anyone.

Brian appears to have been more involved in "Sunflower."The album has his stamp as a sort of "executive producer" (though some would dispute that).He contributed several incredible tracks, particularly "This Whole World" (the a capella ending is breathtaking) and "Cool Cool Water," which is unlike any other song I've ever heard, and marvelous in every way.Brian also chipped in the lovely, atmospheric "All I Wanna Do," the tender "Our Sweet Love," and the anthemic "Add Some Music to Your Day."

These are two five-star albums that show a side to the Beach Boys most casual fans would never even dream of.I cannot explain why they were not popular in their own time (at least in the US; they did better overseas).Shockingly, "Sunflower" only spent four weeks on the US album chart; its commercial failure was reportedly a devastating emotional blow to Brian in particular.Now, however, with hindsight, these albums are recognized (at least by those who know them) as among the very best the 1970s produced. ... Read more

Asin: B00004TJXS
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Pop/Rock    3. Rock    4. Rock & Roll    5. Sunshine Pop   

The Beatles (The White Album)
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $34.98 -- our price: $27.99
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Editorial Review

Better known as the "White Album," this was meant to be the record that brought them back to earth after three years of studio experimentation. Instead, it took them all over the place, continuing to burst the envelope of pop music. Lennon and McCartney were still at the height of their powers, with Lennon in particular growing into one of rock's towering figures. But even McCartney could still rock, and the amazement on "Helter Skelter" was that he had vocal cords at the end. From Beach Boys knock-offs to reggae and to the unknown ("Revolution #9"), this has it all. Some records have legend written all over them; this is one. --Chris Nickson ... Read more

Reviews (867)

Extremely over rated
They really really really were losing there craft by the time they came out with this self-indulgent excuse for a album.




This should have been a single album rather then a double album, Want a good Beatles album. Pick up Rubber Soul or Magical Mystery Tour.I think the Digimon movie soundtrack is better. Becuse digimon is cool

Another Beatles Classic
"The White Album" is one of the best Beatles albums, it was actually released without a name but called "White Album" by most, it's a double with loads of the most fantastic songs and some quite forgettable aswell, but still it would be hard to not give it 5 stars looking at the great songs it did deliver.

This album pretty much got it all for everyone. "Back In the USSR" with the boys singing in russian and joking with the Beach Boys, the humorous "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da", "Continuing Story of Bungalow Bill" that is unique and Harrison's psychedelic masterpiece "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" where Eric Clapton plays the guitar. "Martha My Dear" and "Blackbird" are both decent Paul songs here. Lennon's psychedelic protest "Happiness Is a Warm Gun" got some good lines and riffs for sure. The ballad "Julia" is very nice as a closer of album 1.

Disc 2 got the blues inspired Lennon song "Yer Blues", odd but good. Harrison's midtempo ballas "Long Long Long" and rocker "Savoy Shuffle", "Everybody's Got Something To Hide Except Me And My Monkey", despite it's odd title it's one of the best song of this album, it's both catchy and cool. Midtempo Lennon song "Sexy Sadie" and Paul's rocker "Helter Skelter" is a classic ofcourse and probably among the tougher songs he ever wrote. "Revolution1" was a great hit and is another midtempo Lennon protest song. Ringo sings "Goodnight" as the closer, and it is indeed a beautiful ending of a great album.

Overall. Great album, got some odd songs here and there but the hits talks for themselves. A bit too long perhaps, but I'm glad it was all released at once. Should have.

"White" is right
I was never a fan of Beatles. I grew up (like the rest of) being aurally assualted by them during every television docu-drama, in every elevator, amidst every familiy road trip. By the time I formed my own musical opinions, I was utterly turned off to anything Beatles so I'll be the first to admit that this cultural inundation prevented me from listening to their music with anything close to a fresh ear. For reasons I cant explain, I re-examined them toward the end of High School. I listened to all the records I was familiar with, namely everything before the White Album and I was impressed. They came up with one adorable melody after another, and paired them with simple lyrical conciets that scanned almost perfectly. None of the music gave me any visceral feeling of musical fulfillment but I must say that there were moments during Sgt. Pepper and Magical Mystery Tour that came damn close.

A couple months later, I heard the White Album during (gee-wiz) a road trip. I recognized some songs (Ob-la-di, USSR, Blackbird) but most of it was entirely new to me. By the fifth track I began to get that feeling. What I found in the White Album was an intesity and vibrance that was missing from every other Beatles CD (Abbey Road has since become my second favorite). The thing that amazed me most was how or why Lennon and McCartney waited this long to start singing their songs with some fricken balls. There are pre-White Album moments mostly on Lennon tracks like "I am the Walrus," or "A Day in the Life" but thats just what they are, moments. The first disc starts off kind of lukewarm but picks up almost immediately with "Dear Prudence" and doesn't really begin to let up until near the end. To be sure, there are plently of weak spots: "Ob-la-di," "Dont Pass me by," "Birthday," "I Will," "Long Long Long," "Revolution #9," "Good Night" which is why most people are quick to critisize this opus since most Beatles albums dont have "weak spots." Then again, most Beatles albums dont even come close to the White Albums high points of which there are plenty. Harrisons compositions are generally weaker but succeed (for the most part) on sheer ingenuity. Ringo's song is a good effort but pretty disposable. But even McCartney who provides most of the albums cheese, pulls "Helter Skelter" out of his hat which is quite possibly the greatest Beatles recording I've ever heard. Each song on the album displays an interesting musical idea and is worth listening to but in the end, the album belongs to Lennon. Every one of his tracks (with the exception of his lengthy Cagian exercise) hits the mark. He succeeds on song after song at being personal, witty, and utterly euphonious all at the same time and he seems to do it more effortlessly than any other Beatle. Thats not to say he didn't struggle with his compositions. Songwriting is hard work even for a musical genius. Lennons specific genius is his ability to compose songs which SEEM effortless and natural as opposed to McCartney's more contrived approach. Nowhere is this temperamental difference more apparent than on the White Album which is one explaination for why its completely schizo.

This lack of coherence provides most of the fuel for White Album detractors who just cant seem to accept the arguement that the very absence of a unifying concept is, in itself, a concept. This was an experimental album in more ways than one in that it SEEMS to force the listener into a song by song experience SEEMINGLY providing a stark contrast to Abbey Road which is nothing if nota cohesive whole. I believe The White Album can be experienced the same way, though. That is, in fact, why we call it the White Album. Or more accurately, that is why the Beatles didn't give it a real name and made the cover white. You sit back and listen to an array of songs (colors) which are very different (blue, yellow, green, red) when experienced seperately but can also be experienced together as well (white-assuming these colors are light based) thus bringing the listener into a trance-like meditative state--and the Indian influence thus rears its ugly head. In this way, all the supposed filler and mediocre songs serve a purpose. Epstiens death and the ensuing lack of leadership is not the unfortunate cause of the White Album as many people are wont to claim. The Beatles were perfectly capable of not making silly crap like "Wild Honey Pie," "Piggies," or "Martha my Dear." They where perfectly capable of opting for a single disc full of grandiose themes and top 40 hits. Instead they chose to make one of the greatest CDs of all time ... Read more

Asin: B000002UAX
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Baroque Pop    3. British Psychedelia    4. Folk-Rock    5. Hard Rock    6. Pop    7. Pop/Rock    8. Psychedelic    9. Rock    10. Rock & Roll    11. Singer/Songwriter   

Platinum Collection
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 November, 1994)
list price: $26.98
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Editorial Review

Although birthed in New York City's CBGB punk scene, Blondie from the beginning knew how to make up in finesse whatever they lacked in power. This extensive two-CD collection includes all the band's essential work--from their early affection for 1960s girl groups ("In the Flesh"), and new wave pop-rock ("Hanging on the Telephone"), to the later turn to discofied rhythms ("Heart of Glass," "Call Me"), reggae ("The Tide is High") and even rap music ("Rapture"). That Blondie could churn out incredibly catchy radio-ready hits that defined the late-70s and early 80s without sacrificing their artistic credibility is a true testament to their blazing talent. Their rhythm section is incredibly tight, their mix of keyboards and guitar is always just right. Several remixes and an unreleased cut are added as bonuses. But the real treat is just having all these great tracks backed up next to one another.--Rob O'Connor ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Good Collection- 4.5 Stars
I really love this collection.The songs are tight and the insturmentation rocked as well.I recommend it to anybody who loves 80's music and new wave/punk.It makes a great listen whenever you are out or with your friends.

The Half-Way Platinum Collection
I purchased this for my Blondie collection a few days ago and wasn't completly satisfied.The booklet is interesting to read and the band members talk about each song (every band member except Debbie Harry and Chris Stein).And there are some misspelled words and words with letters accidentally added on to them.Disk 1 includes many hits from "X Offender to "Heart of Glass".Disk 2 includes hits from "Atomic" to "War Child" and "Island Of Lost Souls".The problem is the hit songs are shortened AGAIN!!!"Heart Of Glass" has been put to 4:10 sec when I would rather be listening to the 5:50 sec version.I don't know why they put "Sound-A-Sleep" on here instead of "Victor"."Atomic has been put to 3:50 sec along with "The Tide Is High" and "Rapture which is 4:59 sec!!!Even "For Your Eyes Only", "English Boys", and "Angel On The Balcony" aren't featured here!!!And Most Of All We get two CRAPPY remixes of "Atomic and "Rapture".
In Conclusion this is a decent entry to any Blondie fanatic's collection it has a good booklet with pictures, but I wish someone would re-issue this with the complete songs.

". . . a total portrait, with no omission . . ."
. . . And unfortunately, that's not quite what you get here. Although there is a lot of good stuff.

So let's go through that first. This - unlike either of the one-disk "best-ofs" - goes through the Blondie repertopire in chronological order, so we see their beginnings as part of the CBGB's crowd, but with a '60 flair (BLONDIE - "X-Offender," "Rip Her to Shreds," "Kung Fu Girls," "In the Flesh"; PLASTIC LETTERS - "Contact in Red Square," "I'm on E") evolve into more pop-ish leanings (also PLASTIC LETTERS - "Denis," "[I'm always touched by your] Presence, Dear") then into full-on new wave/power pop chart-toppers (all the songs here from PARALLEL LINES, EAT TO THE BEAT), and into stylistic expansions and more success (AUTOAMERICAN - "The Tide is High," "Rapture") before their decline in 1982 (although three of the four songs from THE HUNTER are okay, just one listen to "Little Caesar" tells you this). The b-side only "Poets Problem" (great) and "Suzy and Jeffrey" (surreal, but funny - a very Shangri-la-esque tale of two doomed engaged lovers, complete with car-crash sound effects!) are also here in their context. The accompanying booklet is terrific, with a single/album discography, many pictures - including album and U.S./British/overseas single covers - and very insightful song commentary from all the band members, except Chris Stein and Debbie Harry (alas).

What's bad? Well, for one thing, several of the songs are shortened (originals on left, PLATINUM on right):

*"Rapture" 5:36 -> 4:57 (no third sung verse, much shorter guitar solo)
*"The Tide is High" c. 4:50 -> 4:20
*"Island of Lost Souls" c. 4:10 -> 3:50
*"Atomic" 4:40 -> 3:50 (no bass solo - which is mentioned in the song commentary!)
*"Heart of Glass" 5:50 -> 4:10 (of course, the one here _was_ the album version in the U.S. 'till the 2001 rerelease, or if you had the 1978 LP [or BLONDE AND BEYOND]; the version on THE BEST OF BLONDIE [now BLONDIE: GREATEST HITS] is 4:33. Although, the PLATINUM version isn't as short as the version I usually hear on the radio, which can't go past 3:40.)

Chrysalis did a similar thing to a double CD Pat Benatar collection also released in 1994. Also, we don't have the "franglais" version of "Sunday Girl" (damn). For another thing, the 1975 demos (which are good, especially [IMHO] "Out in the Streets," "Platinum Blonde," and "Once I Had A Love" - and they're demos, so don't expect that much of them in terms of glossy production - although the first 3 sound much better than they do on the BLONDIE 2001 version; you also can't get "Puerto Rico" anywhere else, even if it should have been on BLONDIE 2001) could havebeen put first, as they go before BLONDIE. (This is important when it comes to "Once I Had a Love"'s morph into "Heart of Glass.")

However, if your favorites aren't here, blame the people who decided what went on what single in the first place - for instance, almost all of PARALLEL LINES is here (11 out of 12), and the one left off is "Pretty Baby," (damn!) which could have been the b-side to the UK "Heart of Glass" 7" instead of "Rifle Range" (from BLONDIE!!!!), and "Little Caesar" and "Dragonfly" from THE HUNTER could have been dropped for "English Boys" and "Danceway," "Victor" or "Shayla" or "Eat to the Beat" for "Sound-A-Sleep," . . . etc. (More from PLASTIC LETTERS - like "Fan Mail," "Love at the Pier," "Bermuda Triangle Blues" - could have been included instead of the two lousy remixes.)
The only missing song that really should be here is "In the Sun," one of the best from BLONDIE and the b-side of the very first single Blondie cut, with Private Stock in May 1976. Conveniently, that single isn't on the discography (which starts with a UK release of "In the Flesh" in March 1977).

Of course, if you've never really "gotten into" Blondie, but want to, this isn't a bad place to start. (Hey, it worked for me!) ... Read more

Asin: B000003JCY
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Civ
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 August, 1995)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $11.98
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Features

• Import

Reviews (7)

Classicaly influenced NYHC
great CD. lots of one word gang vocals and break downs. theres a songwritten by luke of warzone, too. When they were together they wereafiliated with H20 as well as the rest of the NY hardcore scene. the otheralbum is less hardcore, and more commercial sounding, this is the one toget.

set your goals
this is one of my favorite cd's ever!all you complainers out their...civ is not gorilla buiscut, deal with it.set your goals is an upbeat insparational plesure to listen and dance to.i never get sick of it, ican have it in the cd player for weeks because every song has a differentstyle.it instantlly makes me feel good when i listen to it.

ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS SELL OUT jeff from NY
Civ is great music from the old days with gorila biscouts but they sold out with there new 13 day getaway cd. It sucks its sounds like 3rd eye blind stuff. Its not hardcore at all it stupiod dont get me wrong but setyour goals is a great cd dont buy 13dat getaway. civ sold out but there oldstuff is good ... Read more

Asin: B000002JUV
Sales Rank: 111017
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock    3. Rock/Pop   

Recollections: The Best of Judy Collins
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (30 June, 1992)
list price: $9.98 -- our price: $9.98
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Reviews (3)

Judy, You've Been On My Mind!
I own practicallly everything Judy Collins ever recorded, either on LP, tape or CD. I recently had a hankering to hear her beautiful pure voice singing these early songs released over 30 years ago on the first album I ever bought of hers and purchased this CD. It was more beautiful than I remember. Here her haunting voice soars above the simple guitar accompaniment in songs simple and beautiful. Lots of good early Dylan songs here. She was better then, but then we all were but maybe wiser as well as older now.

No one I can think of sings Dylan's "Mr.Tambourine Man" with the beauty and pathos Ms. Collins renders. It's the best Dylan song she has ever sung.

So much about this CD to love and so much to love about the singer. I think many of us measure out our lives in Judy Collins songs. We could do a lot worse.

A Wonderful Trip Through Pure Folk Music WIth Judy Collins!
I remember seeing Judy in concert in the quite informal setting of Avaloch, a wonderful sylvan natural amphitheater that all the folk stars from Collins to Joan Baez to Kris Kristoferson to Tom Rush to James Taylor performed at in Lenox Massachusetts in the summers of 1970. Sadly, it is now the site of a ritzy set of summer condominiums for the New York summertime Berkshires crowd. Yet I can still recall hearing Judy with that magical soaring voice of hers warming up on stage with "Amazing Grace" as we filed onto the grass, and the song so echoed and reverberated over the warm humid airwaves that the older folks at Tanglewood, some six or seven miles way, complained about the noisome interruption. It became an inside joke that Collins, Baez and others would playfully aggravate when performing for the very mellow crowd of counterculture fans. I recall a certain sweet aroma wafting through the air, too, and it wasn't the smell of cotton candy.

Of course, it probably goes without saying that I love most of the songs on this reprise of her favorite folk songs that weren't necessarily hits, yet were songs she often included when touring. From her terrific covers of Bob Dylan's "Pack Up Your Sorrows" and "Tomorrow's Is A Long Time" to a wonderful interpretation of Gordon Lightfoot's classic "In The Early Morning Rain", Judy showcases her amazing folk voice and acoustic guitar skills to advantage here. I also really love both her version of Pete Seeger's "Turn! Turn! Turn!" as well as her superb treatment of Dylan's "Mr. Tambourine Man", her magical voice gliding along the verses of the song in its unique way. I love her amazing vocal work in two of the final songs on the CD, "Last Thing On My Mind", and "Farewell', and one can feel the rush of heart-felt emotion in the songs as she advances through them. This is an early retrospective look at a number of traditional folk songs sung by one of the titans of modern American folk music, taken just as she reached the peak of her awesome vocal and collaborative talents. It is one sure to please the most discriminating of well-trained folk ears, and one I am sure you will come to treasure as much as I do. Enjoy.

a wonderful collection
This album goes back to my youth.I was living in Alaska at the time and this was one of the few tapes in the cabin.This album includes some very fresh interpretations of folk standards.A great treat. ... Read more

Asin: B000002HB9
Sales Rank: 21977
Subjects:  1. Folk & Traditional    2. Folk-Rock    3. Pop    4. Singer/Songwriter   

Donovan's Greatest Hits
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (30 March, 1999)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $10.99
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Editorial Review

Greatest Hits is the budget option for those who've concluded that two discs of Donovan is a disc too many and zero is one too few. Troubadour, Sony's 1992 Donovan box set, boasts nearly three times the tracks this 15-song single-disc retrospective offers, but Greatest Hits delivers what it promises: "Colours" and "Catch the Wind" from his folkie phase and "Mellow Yellow," "Sunshine Superman," and "Wear Your Love Like Heaven" from the lad's best-pal-a-flower-ever-had period. Also included are plenty more catchy folk-rock hits cut between 1964 and 1970 as well as four bonus tracks, including the delightfully earnest "Atlantis" and "Barabajagal," with the celebrated first-edition Jeff Beck Group providing backing. Donovan's blissed-out liner notes ("Whatever you think this song is about, it probably is") round out the package quite quaintly. --Steven Stolder ... Read more

Features

• Extra tracks
• Original recording remastered

Reviews (52)

Deception on some tracks NOT THE SAME TRACKS!
I have a 30 year old cassette tape of this greatest hits album and realized how wonderful it would be to now buy it in CD. Amazon review promissed original recording, merely remastered. At least two of the tracks on the original recording are especially moving and beautiful, with a slow, hypnotic rhythm that defies description - Colours, and Catch the Wind - beautiful tunes that defined an era of the 60's. NEITHER IS THE SAME ON THIS DISC - both are re-done, solo singing by Donovan on a bad day and a terrible disappointment - these are probably THE two tracks I wanted to hear and preserve in identical sound to the original sound from the original album. When Amazon promisses a CD is the same as another, only "re-mastered", they OUGHT TO DISCLOSE MORE HONESTLY if some tracks literally are re-recordings (even if by the same artist) so that the tracks ARE NOT THE SAME AS THE ORIGINAL ALBUM. If you are a purest old enough to remember the ORIGINAL sound of these tracks, DO NOT BUY THIS DISC - instead look for a recording that is not "re-mastered" - get the original sound you remember. I'm going to go buy that now and get what I should have gotten had Amazon been candid and I've learned a lesson - I hope you learn it too.

Just one cautionary note
The album itself is an excellent compendium of Donovan's major works in the 60's.

HOWEVER: this is NOT remastered!I just got mine today and I searched the entire unit for ANY mention of a remaster (which was one reason why I wanted it).I already had the 'regular' CD from the 80's.I'd hoped for better sound.Oh well.

I'll keep this, as I love it enough to have 2 cd's and a vinyl lp of it.But again, there is no remastering on this.

"Sunshine came softly thru my window today..."
I prefer the second, smoother versions of "Colours" and "Catch The Wind" over these folkie originals(done in the day when Donovan was seen as a Bob Dylan wanna-be), but you can't go wrong with Donovan when you're into a groovy mode. "Jennifer Juniper" is the musical equivalent of a lazy summer day, a field covered in daisies; "Sunshine Superman" is tangled web, forceful and poetic; "Mellow Yellow", with its old-fashioned pomp, is like a wonderful "Yellow Submarine" outtake. Of the bonus tracks, "To Susan on The West Coast Waiting" is the most intriguing. Best hidden gem: "Lalena", with its beautifully sad, ironic prose. An amazing body of work. ... Read more

Asin: B00000ICNY
Subjects:  1. British Folk    2. British Invasion    3. British Psychedelia    4. Folk-Rock    5. Pop    6. Pop/Rock    7. Psychedelic    8. Psychedelic Pop    9. Rock    10. Singer/Songwriter   

Entertainment Weekly: The Greatest Hits 1976
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 March, 2000)
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Reviews (4)

The bicentennial was not a good year for American music
Does a certain television commercial have you humming "Rubberband Man"?If so, picking up "Entertainment Weekly: The Greatest Hits 1976" can help easy your troubled mind by adding the Spinners' catchy hit to your music library.However, be forewarned that after that the pickings get rather slim with the other 11 tracks on this CD.I know I was busy going to college in 1976, but I swear I have no musical memory of "More, More, More," "You are the Woman," and "Sara Smile."More importantly, I was not missing anything.

The only danger is that the late 1970s is a time when there were a lot of songs that I never wanted to hear again.If Matt Damon is not making fun of "Afternoon Delight," I can live without it, and I know people who feel the same way about "You're Still the One.""Boogie Fever" and "You Sexy Thing" are okay, but if Gabe Kaplan and John Travolta do not show up right after John Sebastian finishes singing "Welcome Back," what is the point?The strongest track on the collection is probably Gary Wright's "Dream Weaver," but people who like that one tend to already have it.Overall this is the weakest of the "EW" albums from this decade.Maybe everybody was busy with the bicentennial that year.

Don't Bother
This collection is pretty weak even by the considerably less than lofty standards of the mid 70's.Hall and Oates' blue eyed soul hit "Sara Smile" is the only flat out gem here on a collection heavily weighed down by no less than five utterly embarrassing clunkers including the cringe inducing "Afternoon Delight" and Eric Carmen's "All By Myself" which still ranks as quite possibly the whiniest song in recorded history.

1976 was a very good year
If you like music from the seventies, you'll love this toe-tapping, finger-snapping, afro-combing, sing-in-the-car-real-loud CD. ... Read more

Asin: B00004R86U
Sales Rank: 143956
Subjects:  1. Disco    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. Rock    5. Soft Rock    6. V/a Compilations   

Fleetwood Mac Live
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $24.98 -- our price: $22.99
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Editorial Review

This 1980, 2 CD live set captures Fleetwood Mac at the height of its platinum popularity, performing such durable faves as "Don't Stop," "Dreams," "Say You Love Me," "Rhiannon," "Go Your Own Way," "Over My Head," "Monday Morning," and "Sara." The band's energetic performances put a fresh spin on the familiar material. Elsewhere, the band throws some ace curveballs with left-field oddities like Lindsey Buckingham's gritty blues workout on the early (Peter Green era) Mac tune "Oh Well" and a lilting, harmony-laden reading of The Beach Boys' "Farmer's Daughter." --Scott Schinder ... Read more

Features

• Live

Reviews (29)

One of the best live albums out there!
I admit I'm a fan of The Mac.I also admit that, like another who has written a review here, 'Tusk' is my favourite Mac album.And I love live albums.So this was a real treat for me.It's simply a fantastic mesh of the first three Mac albums made with the great Buckingham/Nicks, with a gritty workout on Peter Green's 'Oh Well' thrown in for good measure.
Lindsey Buckingham reveals himself in the course of this album to be a truly absurdly talented guy.In particular his rendition of 'Never Going Back' is just beautiful.He more than holds his own in 'Oh Well' and delivers a blistering 'I'm So Afraid' to boot.Though some have expressed irritation for it, the version of 'Not That Funny' is intriguing - he sounds as if he's performing some sort of rock n roll exorcism to the manic accompaniment of Mick.The screams and yelps are great fun.
Stevie also sounds fantastic, especially on Landslide (emotionally charged) and Rhiannon, in which she summons up the Welsh witch and sends chills down the spine.'Fireflies' is an undiscovered gem of a tune, which should have been on an album somewhere.The version of 'Sara' is the longer one which was trimmed for the Tusk album, but did appear on the green Greatest Hits album which came out in the early 90s.It's equally wicked.Nicks floats through the song like a dream.
Christine McVie is the anchor of it all...she's just great.The (then)new song 'Over & Over' twinkles in with keyboard and swooping vocals.'Say You Love Me' provides a rousing intro (along with a fantastic 'Monday Morning') to the album.
As for the Amazing Rhythm Section...they are solid, subtle, and cool as ice, and on 'Oh Well' they dig into their blues roots like men possessed.
All in all...this album has not been off my record player for a long time.There is a song for every mood, and The Mac successfully plumb emotional depths rarely seen in today's music.
Buy it!It's great!Truly one of their finest times captured (lucky for us) on an album.

Vintage live music from the classic Mac line-up !
This live album from 1980 is a rare insight on the band's marathon-tour in support of the "Tusk" album. Not only does it allow the casual listener to discover hidden gems like "Don't Let Me Down Again", "One More Night" "Fireflies" or "Over & Over", it also enables the true Mac fans to capture a milestone in the band's history.

The recording is impressive; songs like "Landslide" or "Never going back again" feature such intimate readings, that you can even wonder if they were truly recorded live - that is, until a deluge of applause happens as the songs conclude. Other songs like "I'm so afraid" or "Not that funny" are a testimony to the mad genius displayed by Lindsey Buckingham on stage. Christine McVie is as good as always, with flawless performances of "Over my head" and "Say you love me". And Stevie Nicks delivers an achingly beautiful version of "Sara", less polished but more emotional than on the album version, where her voice is both sensitive and soaring. The band no longer performs "Sara" in their concerts, based on Stevie's wish, and judging from this version, one can only wonder why. This is the only official live version of "Sara" ever released, which is reason enough to purchase the album.

There are plenty of high points on this album, such as "Rhiannon" (less subdued and more rocking than the version later found on "The Dance"), "Don't Stop", "Dreams", "Oh Well" and the ethereal cover of Brian Wilson's "The Farmer's Daughter". There isn't a weak moment on this album; and although it would have been nice to have songs like "Gold Dust Woman", "You Make Loving Fun" and "Songbird", it's still one of the finest live albums ever recorded.

Listen to "I'm So Afraid"
I can't say that I've ever listened to this album, really, or even a whole side of it, so take the 5-star rating with a grain of salt, but I've listened to "I'm So Afraid" about a thousand times, mostly late at night, alone in my room with the lights out. It's not just the vocals, which are amazing, but also the guitar.This is what a live performance is supposed to be, a well-rehearsed, talented band finding their groove and channeling inspiration down from that place where music resides.I admit I was 18 years when I did it--but 20 years later the memory has never left me.

It's pretty rare that a live version of a song surpasses the studio version in all ways, but this is it.After you've listetened to the live version for the tenth time in a row, look for the studio version and play that, just for a giggle. ... Read more

Asin: B000002KLZ
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. Rock    5. Soft Rock   

NSP2342
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 September, 1995)
list price: $13.98
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Reviews (1)

spooky cool
I bought this album because I liked the cover. I'd never heard of the band. It's raw and eerie. I got hooked on it after a few listens. I wouldn't recommend playing it for breakfast every day, but it's great for vacuuming, because you have to turn it up really loud and then it just kind of blends into everything and you can feel it. Hazy & crazy. ... Read more

Asin: B000005AH4
Sales Rank: 148488
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Pop    3. Rock   

To Bring You My Love
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (28 February, 1995)
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Editorial Review

After fumbling around with producer-from-hell Steve Albini on Rid of Me (1993) and signing with U2 manager Paul McGuinness, Polly Jean Harvey is ready to live up to her lethal early promise at last. With its growling bass tones, "Meet Ze Monsta" sets the stage early on as Harvey explores her feminine psyche with an intensity and raw power unheard since Patti Smith's heyday. Unlike the terminally inconsistent Smith, however, Harvey plots a brilliant course through slippery laments ("Working for the Man"), corrosive testifying ("Long Snake Moan"), and fuzz-toned menace ("Down by the Water"). Skeptics who think Harvey can't outgrow her art-punk base are advised to cue up the flamenco-inflected, string-caressed "Send His Love to Me."--Jeff Bateman ... Read more

Reviews (89)

Sounds Like water
As if i have nothing else to review....but this is cool. Thelazy strumming guitar, the voice. It makes u feel exactly as the cover suggest:drifting.

I respect any women who writes and sings
PJ Harvey is one of my fav. women singers. I respect women who write their own music and play it. Shes one of them along with many other ones. She has a amazing voice and lyrics.

The best album of the '90s
While the world hopped on the bandwagon and sang the prasies of alt-rock bands of the '90s, P.J. Harvey delivered the most compelling album of the decade.Though her contemporaries sold more and received more press, critics and fans labeled her the supreme rock star.Her poetry, her songwriting, and that infectious voice...her music is theatre.

This album represents several musical generes...each busting with flare and drama.Ms. Harvey rocks with "Long Snake Moan", eases down to guitar based "C'mon Billy".The highlight here is the techo-laced "Down By The Water" which, in my humble opinion, is one of the greatest poetic statements to have emerged in the past 25 years.

This is the album to own.In fact, if the world came to it, it should be the only album you own... ... Read more

Asin: B000001E7T
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Dog & Butterfly
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
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Reviews (20)

Heart's forgotten 1978 masterpiece
Dog And Butterfly (1978.) Heart's fourth album.

Heart had already begun to prove themselves to the musical world in the late eighties. Hard to believe, a band that went nearly a decade with zero popularity had almost instantaneously started climbing the charts. In just a few short years, Heart had gone from an indie label to a major one, and had become one of America's most beloved rock and roll bands of the day. To the time, Heart had released three albums - 1976's Dreamboat Annie, 1977's Little Queen, and 1978's Magazine. Later in 1978, the group recorded and released their fourth album, Dog And Butterfly. How does this release measure up? Read on for my review.

On this album, Heart takes on a more gritty, down-to-earth hard blues rock sound. The latter songs on the band's previous albun, Magazine, hinted at the band's blues rock roots, and here they give us almost an entire album's worth of tunes that fall into that category. The band's attempt at this style is excellent. One interesting thing the band did to start off the album was to use a live track. Cook With Fire, the first song on the album, was recorded live in Memphis, and it makes for white the attention getter. It's gritty bluesy rock the way it was meant to be heard. High Time, the next track on the album, is another rocker, but it's got a slightly poppy sound to it. It's not unlike Kick It Out from their Little Queen album. Hijinx is one of the most bluesy songs on the album (it's more of a blues song than a rock song), and it's one of my favorites. Straight On was the big hit from the album, and no track really depicts this era of the band better than this song does. It's only natural this masterpiece became such a hit. Nancy's guitar in this song, particuarly in the chorus, really must be heard to be appreciated. Next up we have the title track. This is an acoustic, slow-paced ballad. Prior to their Heart days, Ann and Nancy Wilson played in a folk-oriented rock band, and this is a song that excellently depicts that side of the band. Lighter Touch is one of the more interesting songs featured on the album - it's the happy medium between a rocker from Heart and seventies singer-songwriter pop. Another track you've gotta hear to appreciate. Nada One is another acoustic track, which is pretty similar to the title track. Of course, being similar to the title track, in this case, is a GOOD thing - people tend to overlook the band's acoustic work. Closing out the album is Mistral Wind. Many rock styles are fused on this track, making it a rather interesting closer. The first two minutes or so are acoustic and folksy, but after that it becomes a straight-up rocker. Nancy even serves up some riffs that sound like they'd be more at home in an eighties heavy metal composition! The hard rock continues through the rest of the track, until it shifts back to acoustics for one minute. This track closes the album out excellently. In the end, this is a great album - one of my favorites from the band.

Three of Heart's classic Portrait albums - Little Queen, Dog And Butterfly, and Bebe Le Strange, all got remastering treatment. The remasters even feature track-by-track commentary, expanded liner notes, and of course, bonus tracks. For bonus tracks you get demos, unreleased studio outtakes, live versions, and all sorts of other cool songs. Record companies take note - THIS is how you do remasters! It's just a shame the band's other albums aren't likely to get the same treatment.

Dog And Butterfly is a masterpiece of rock and roll. Heart's last release of the seventies has truly stood the test of time. Although this isn't an album I'd recommend to a new fan of the band (start with Dreamboat Annie), it's still a masterpiece (although you'll appreciate it more if you hear Dreamboat Annie and Little Queen first.) If you're a fan of Heart, do not hesitate to add this album to your collection - it's a worthwhile masterpiece.

Heart: Dog & Butterfly (1978)
Heart was on a roll, getting everywhere with their success. Their fourth album, DOG & BUTTERFLY, was released in November of 1978, just eight months after the release of MAGAZINE. This album is a four-star album, because it is not quite as good as Heart's first two albums, but I still enjoy hearing this album in every way. It went on to show how Ann's voice became even more powerful. It went on to show that both Ann and Nancy were becoming even sexier than they were when they released DREAMBOAT ANNIE.

COOK WITH FIRE (Live performance)
Heart sounds great when performing live, especially on this song.

HIGH TIME (Live performance)
Not bad.

HIJINX
Okay.

STRAIGHT ON
The first single from the album. One of HEART's best songs.

DOG & BUTTERFLY
The second single from the album, and the album's title track. I can't help, but play this relentlessly because of its mellow and subtle sound.

LIGHTER TOUGH
Not bad.

NADA ONE
Not bad.

MISTRAL WIND
The third & final single from the album. Great Song.

This album was Heart's last album of the 70s. It was Heart's last album under the direction of Portrait Records. It was Heart's last album with Roger Fisher. By the time this album was released, Roger Fisher and Nancy Wilson had long since ended their affair. But Roger went on with harrassing Nancy, leading the band to fire Roger Fisher in 1979. This album is just about worth the money. So if you want to buy it, then buy it.

After they fired Roger Fisher, Heart carried on as a quintet with the remaining line-up:

Ann Wilson (Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals)
Nancy Wilson (Acoustic, Electric, & Lead Guitars, Vocals, Backing Vocals)
Howard Leese (Keyboards, Electric & Lead Guitars, Backing Vocals)
Steve Fossen (Bass Guitars)
Michael Deroiser (Drums)

Flawless
Indeed, the best of the original Heart.The album shows excellent songwriting and musicianship.It was a work on which all band members at the time, seem to finally reach a group apex.I highly suggest you get this album, if no other Heart album.A must have for any collection. ... Read more

Asin: B0000025E4
Sales Rank: 60138
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Hollies - Hollies Greatest Hits
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (26 March, 2002)
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Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (8)

Another great 60s and 70s group
The Hollies' song "Bus Stop" was the first song I knew by them. I heard it when I was riding in the car with my mom and at the conclusion I heard the DJ say it was the Hollies. That song, "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" and "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" are the best songs on here. The CD booklet tells history of the group and this CD is a must for any fan of the 60s and 70s.

hollies greatest hits
this cd is great for all those sad song lovers sad songs say so much he aint heavy and the air that i breath brings it all back the good old days when we were young and care free the cd makes you smile and warms your heart

Perfect Pop for Pure Hearted People
Yes, this collection could be more complete, but it stands well on its own.One of the tests (if not the test) of a perfect pop song are the time tests.First Time Test: "Does it end when it should-neither too quickly, or dragging on?"--"Carrie-Anne" passes the first time test perfectly.Second Time Test:Does hearing the cd make you smile or cringe "I liked THAT?"If it makes you smile, a winner.This is a winner of a CD for the general 60's Britpop listener.Specialist listeners, go elsewhere. ... Read more

Asin: B000063CNC
Sales Rank: 3306
Subjects:  1. British Invasion    2. England    3. Merseybeat    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock    6. Rock    7. Soft Rock   

Magnolia: Music from the Motion Picture
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 December, 1999)
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Editorial Review

The much anticipated follow-up to Paul Thomas Anderson's Boogie Nights, Magnolia features a specially orchestrated soundtrack, largely written and performed by Aimee Mann ('Til Tuesday member and sadly overlooked solo artist). Mann's voice has always been a suitable vehicle for conveying emotional turmoil and indelible sadness, and several tracks here ("Build That Wall," "You Do," "Driving Sideways") do so with the rich melodicism that informs her best work. Producer Jon Brion's sprightly horn arrangements for "Momentum" are an unexpected (though not completely unwelcome) splash of cold water. Only Mann's cover of the Harry Nilsson-penned Three Dog Night hit "One" backfires, as it simply doesn't deliver the same effective climax as the original. The two Supertramp tracks from their Breakfast in America LP tacked on at album's end are incongruous (though they cut down the degrees of separation between them and Mann to an incredible one!). However, for anyone with an interest in Mann's melodic songwriting, there are eight worthy originals waiting for you. --Rob O'Connor ... Read more

Features

• Soundtrack

Reviews (194)

Aimee Mann's breakthrough.
This soundtrack is largely Aimee Mann material-- "Magnolia" writer/director P.T. Anderson claims Mann's music (in particular "Deathly") was the inspiration for the album, and having heard several Mann demos, he hijacked a bunch of them for his movie (several tracks also ended up on "Bachelor No. 2").The material finds Mann in the process of a change-- while "Whatever" was a jangly pop album and "I'm With Stupid" was firmly lodged in Boston alt-rock, this one is something altogether different, folky, jazzy-- really pulling together a number of elements.The material's success is somewhat mixed because of its nature.

Where Mann excels best is where she always does, with that sort of melancholy feel, regardless of style-- from the agile arrangement of Harry Nilsson's "One" (with fantastic vocals) to the brilliantly bitter and effectively plodding "Deathly" and "Save Me" to the overbearing strings and delicate beauty of "Wise Up", Mann really excels at capturing the sort of pains and fears about love.

Admittedly, there are a couple misfires-- "Momentum"'s ecstatic horn arrangements are infectious and catchy, but the song is weak, "Build That Wall" is a bit overarranged, and some of the material ("Driving Sideways", "You Do") is decent enough, but doesn't really grab you.

The remainder of the CD is filled out with a pair of Supertramp songs, who are really not up my vein, a thoroughly obnoxious song called "Dreams" by someone named Gabrielle, and Jon Brion's lovely title theme.

This soundtrack is of limited value, truthfully, given that much of the material is available on "Bachelor No. 2", but it was an introduction to Mann's music for many, and the songs here that aren't available elsewhere are often worth having.

A Fine Work by Aimee Mann
On the Magnolia soundtrack, Aimee Mann has penned tuneful, languid, accessible songs about relationships and human connection.The production by Jon Brion is stellar: alternately subdued (as on "You Do") and prominent (as on "Momentum" in particular) but always reflective of a variety of influences: carnival music, honky-tonk, and The Beatles.Simply put, Mann's songs are examples of excellent craftsmanship: in melodicism, lyrics, and production.From the heart-wrenching piano ballad "Wise Up" to "Deathly"- the song whose phrase ("Now that I've met you/Would you object to never seeing each other again?") spawned the film itself, the Magnolia soundtrack is a worthwhile album full of intelligent and mournful songs.

Awesome Soundtrack - Horrible Movie
Awesome Soundtrack - Horrible Movie
Magnolia is the only movie I have ever seen in the theater which gave me the urge to walk out in the middle.The only reason I did not was because I went with friends and I did not drive.
This soundtrack is wonderful - and only becasue Aimee Mann sings 9 out of 13 songs. I remember her mesmerizing voice when I first heard it about 20 years ago when she was the majority of Til Tuesday. She still moves me. I hope she never retires. ... Read more

Asin: B00003A9NN
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Soundtracks & Film Scores   

More of the Monkees
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (15 November, 1994)
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Features

• Original recording remastered

Reviews (36)

You may like this too
I am a huge fan of Michael Nesmith's solo music and his music with The Monkees. If you enjoy The Monkees then I strongly recommend that you check out the following:
1) Teenage Symphonies To God by The Velvet Crush
2) Papa Nez: A Loose Salute To The Work Of Michael Nesmith by Various Artists
3) Home by Josh Rouse
4) Summer Teeth by Wilco

great album
I just want to make one point known...

THE BEATLES were great musicians in their own right....but where would they have been without George Martin????Probably starving somewhere in Liverpool, London or Hamburg....it was Martin who had the studio prowess to polish their sound and help improve their musicianship...look at the results.....for all you doubting Thomases...refer to the DECCA TAPES and HAMBURG albums....of course, this was pre-Ringo.....but it still showed what a raw and unpolished band they were prior to Martins appearance and contributions.He was in fact....the real 5th Beatle.(THIS IS NOT A BEATLES REVIEW)

The point I was making is.....Don Kirchener was the George Martin to THE MONKEES....the difference being.....THE BEATLES played all their instruments on their first 2 albums.....they still did covers of about 35% of their material.leftovers from the early days.

I was a Monkees fan when they came out....and for a long time after the 3rd album....I grew to dislike them....as they were dubbed THE PREFAB 4...I had grown to appreciate more talented and creative musicians/bands....the cool thing to do....but after relistening to the albums and comparing the differences along the way....I really believe they had some real talent there...Now I am back....I have the first 5 albums on CD now...and am enjoying them again.....giving them a fresh listen.

This was my favourite album...so it's the one I chose to write a review for...I always thought the cover was very cool...(and I hate the colour green)

yeah that's right 5 STARS!
I think this needs a bit of a reality check here. First of all The Monkees were a corporate adventure. A bunch of kids who didn't know each other before answering auditions for a television series so who cares that they didn't even know this album had been cut?! Exactly how much creative control does the puppet in a puppet show have...? These guys didn't write most (if any) of the music or even play their instruments (at least in the beginning). So this was a greedy Don Kirshner money grab eh... exactly why do you think A&M, RCA, Polydor or any other recording corporation does the greasy and sleazy things it does...DUH!?

This is a pretty good bit of teenage pop fluff which is exactly what The Monkees were despite any moronic claims to the contrary. Davy Jones and Micky Dolenz were pretty good singers and they were all cute so the teenage girls would like them and teenage guys like anything the girls like so they can get what they REALLY like. Sound complicated... it's not! This was good time music that kids in three different generations have all enjoyed when these songs were played on stage in the sixties, the eighties and still now in the generation of thrash and Snoop Dog. They still like Louie Louie too even if some won't admit it but they're probably the same ones who go home, lock the door and put on The Day We Fall In Love crying tiny sick tears on crusty sheets... eeeeewwwww!!! ... Read more

Asin: B0000033DX
Sales Rank: 12435
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Motown Milestones: Motown Meets the Beatles
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (08 August, 1995)
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Editorial Review

You'd think with the stable of great tunesmiths Motown employedin the '60s that there would be no need to go outside the family forsongs. There was no denying the might of the Beatles catalog,however. So it makes sense that Berry Gordy, a man who wanted his brandof black music to be suitable for everyone, would marry his all-starroster to the music of Lennon and McCartney. Greatsongs, great singers--what could go wrong? Well, sometimes plenty.Listen to the Supremes gamelytackling "A Hard Day's Night," their harmonies trapped in a leadenarrangement that can't switch gears from Liverpool to Detroit. Orcringe as Diana Rossmassacres Lennon's solo anthem "Imagine." Sometimes the singersoverpower the material, as when therough-and-ready Four Tops turn theunderstated "Eleanor Rigby" into a stomp. But sometimes it's sublime,as when Marvin Gayeenvisions "Yesterday" as a hushed hymn, or Stevie Wonderrevitalizes the already feisty "We Can Work It Out" by giving the tunea soul-drenched swagger. As an artifact of pop culture, this collectionis fascinating. As a musical statement? Well, utilize your CDprogrammer. --Amy Linden ... Read more

Features

• Import

Reviews (6)

Motown Returns A Favour
Cunningly recycling a batch of album tracks by some of Motown's most prominent artists, recorded over a period of dozen years, the compilers have come up with another winner with this clutch of Beatles songs, which plays through with surprising cohesiveness. The Beatles loved Motown, and here they return the favour.
Stevie Wonder's We Can Work It Out is probably the stand-out listen, with an exuberance that made it a natural choice for a single in 1971, and one can also detect his influence in then-partner Syreeta's definitive cover version of the usually over-treacled She's Leaving Home. The Temptations' Hey Jude, from Puzzle People, comes with a suitably distinctive Norman Whitfield production, and Marvin Gaye's Yesterday is also a highlight. The Four Tops are called upon to deliver cabaret versions of three Paul McCartney ballads. Though none have the classic hallmark Levi Stubbs touch, Eleanor Rigby comes closest.
Both the original Supremes tracks come from a 1964 curio entitled A Little Bit Of Liverpool and ought to be great. They have lots of gusto and fire, and are great fun, but the sound is muddy and the production sounds hurried, leaving a sense of what might have been with a little more trouble and care. Diana Ross appears again on Let It Be's The Long And Winding Road. Come Together comes from the 1970 incarnation of the Supremes led by Jean Terrell and is an excellent Frank Wilson production.
George Harrison's Something is well handled by Martha Reeves and the Vandellas (from Natural Resources) and Gladys Knight and the Pips' version of Let It Be is another stand-out, equaling Aretha's version of Paul McCartney's tribute to his mother Mary. Smokey Robinson and the Miracles' And I Love Her is rescued from the rather overlooked album What Love Has Joined Together. It sounds just how you imagine.
The final three tracks are from the post-Beatle period. Diana Ross does a syrupy version of John Lennon's Imagine; Jr Walker blows a fine horn on Wings' My Love from 1976; and Edwin Starr gets gospelly on the rousing George Harrison classic My Sweet Lord, ending the album on an uplifting note

Great compilation of Beatles covers
In the sixties and early seventies, it was common practice to include plenty of cover versions on albums, and Motown were no exception. Seventeen of the best Beatles covers by Motown acts (including three songs from after the break-up) were brought together in this fascinating collection.

Nearly all the songs are classics. You can't do that, from one of the Beatles early album, is by far the least well known. Some of the songs are more true to the originals than other, but among the more distinctive are Eleanor Rigby, sung with real feeling by the Four Tops, and Yesterday, which Marvin Gaye was obviously determined to make his version different from the hundreds of others, and succeeded brilliantly.

While many of these tracks are available elsewhere, it is great to have them all together. If you enjoy either Beatles tribute albums or sixties Motown, you will enjoy this too. If, like me, you enjoy both, this is essential.

A Must Have
The other reviews here almost do this collection justice--however no one has mentioned the piece de resistance: Syreeta's "She's Leaving Home".It is fabulous, with Stevie Wonder's genius (and back-up singing, I believe) all over it.It is a pre-cursor to those mid-'90's hip-hop tracks with synth-voice harmonies; way ahead of its time.In addition, Marvin Gaye's "Yesterday" is heartbreaking and gorgeous; Jr. Walker's "My Love" (ok, it's a Wings song, but why quibble?) is makeout music heaven; and the Supremes are actually not bad on "You Can't Do That" (their "Hard Days Night" is rather painful, but it's the first track and you get over it quickly!)
Highly recommended. ... Read more

Asin: B000001A7Q
Subjects:  1. 60's    2. Funk    3. Motown    4. Pop    5. Pop-Soul    6. Psychedelic Soul    7. Quiet Storm    8. R&B    9. Smooth Soul    10. Soul    11. Soul/R & B Collections    12. Urban   

Nipper's Greatest Hits: The 70's
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $9.98
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Reviews (4)

Come on, Nipper, dig deeper to find us some more bones!
After picking up both volumes of Nipper's Greatest Hits for the 60's, this 70's collection is a little disappointing.The key question for any good music anthology is that it adds about a half-dozen songs to your collection that you cannot pick up anywhere else, mainly because the original albums are long gone.But this has as many songs you can get lots of places, such as the Guess Who's "American Woman" and "Burning Love" by Elvis Presley, as there are ones I simply do not remember ever hearing during that decade, like "Cherchez La Femme" by Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band and the Tymes' "You Little Trustmaker."When the best songs you are adding to your collection are "It's Impossible" by Perry Como and "Troglodyte (Cave Man)" by the Jimmy Castor Bunch you know this is not the best of all possible worlds.Continuing to count off on my fingers I can add Reunion's "Life Is A Rock (But The Radio Rolled Me)," even though I have the Tracy Ullman cover, and Styx's "Lady," but that is only four and although I am tempted to add Jerry Reed's "Amos Moses," I do have to maintain some standards.But this was just my own personal test and with your own tastes and music collection you might be able to make it to the second hand.If you can, then bring this Nipper home.

Under Nipper's Doghouse Roof, A Varied Series of 70s Hits
Major label artist collections are among the most fun because they present many different styles under an era's umbrella. This is particularly true of RCA Records in the 1970s. For the first time in the modern era, RCA had todo with little from its most reliable hitmakers (Como, Presley, etc.) Theyrelied instead on younger stars like John Denver and David Bowie, plus ahost of one-hit wonders.

Sadly, neither Bowie nor Denver made the cuthere but several of the label's finest and quirkiest hits did. You getrefined Philly soul/disco (Tymes, Hall & Oates' #1, Vicki Sue Robinson,Evelyn King's 1978 disco anthem "Shame") beside country/rock(B.W. Stevenson, Dolly Parton's 1977 breakthrough, Jerry Reed's Cajunrave-up "Amos Moses"). Two lounge-lizard standards("Feelings" and 1970's "It's Impossible" )rub upagainst two of the era's goofiest novelty songs (Jimmy Castor's churning"Troglodyte" and Reunion's 1974 bubblegum rap "Life Is ARock.") The power ballad debuts with Styx's "Lady" andJefferson Starship's 1975 "Miracles" (fully heard here, asopposed to its abbreviated version on "Gold.") And of course,Elvis exits with his final Top 10, 1972's #2 "Burning Love."

"Nipper's Greatest Hits: The 70s" is as quirky, intriguing andoutright odd as the decade. Like Rhino's subsequent "Have A NiceDay" collections, the songs leave you humming, reminiscing, andwondering how half these songs became hits to start with.

Lots of music for the money!
All hits are original. Very important to the serious oldies listener. Only a couple of "hits" were not really chart toppers, but still well worth the price! ... Read more

Asin: B000002WD7
Sales Rank: 151685
Subjects:  1. 70's    2. AM Pop    3. Album Rock    4. Country-Pop    5. Disco    6. Hard Rock    7. Pop    8. Pop/Rock    9. Quiet Storm    10. Soft Rock    11. Soul    12. Sunshine Pop    13. V/a Compilations   

The Hits/The B-Sides
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 September, 1993)
list price: $39.98 -- our price: $35.99
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Editorial Review

Assignment: To write 100 words on 56 songs by the greatest artist the '80s produced. Even with single edits substituting for full-length versions in a handful of cases, The Hits/The B-Sides is a mighty testament to the man we once called Prince. (For that matter, we still do.) In addition to most of his singles, from "I Wanna Be Your Lover" to "Thieves in the Temple," from "When Doves Cry" to "7," this triple-CD set throws in some worthwhile new music and a full disc of the fantastic flips that made buying 7- and 12-inches a must even when you already owned the A-side. "You can be the side effect," he mutters herein. "I'd rather be the dope." Witness some of the funkiest pharmaceuticals around. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Features

• Explicit Lyrics

Reviews (55)

Wonderful Overview of a Wonderful Career
In retrospect, the release of this compilation signalled the end of an era for Prince which led into a decade of mostly eccentric music that despite some highlights, was generally quite poor until the release of "Musicology" last year.

"Hits/B Sides" avoids some of the pitfalls of other "best of" collections. Firstly, it's thankfully not arranged in chronological order. Disc one opens with "When Doves Cry (5/5)" and "Pop Life (4/5)" before going all the way back to Prince's very first single "Soft And Wet (4/5)". "When You Were Mine (3.5/5)" is the first of 4 cuts from the album "Dirty Mind".

Some of Prince's more thought provoking music comes towards the end of Disc 1 (including the wondeful "Sign 'O' The Times (4/5), which is a good set up for the sleazier disc two. It opens aptly with "Controversy (4/5)". "Head (4.5/5)", "Sexy MF (5/5)" and "Cream (4/5)" are among the controversial joints. The middle section of Disc 2 is enormously impressive. "Raspberry Beret (5/5)", "If I Was Your Girlfriend (4/5)" and "Kiss (4.5/5) come back to back.

There are a handful of new songs. "Nothing Compares 2 U (4/5)" and "Pink Cashmere (4/5)" are highlights. Less impressive is "Pope (3/5)", which is an average New Jack Swing tune that could have easily slid onto "The Symbol Album".

The B Sides contain many treasures that many would never of heard of before. "Scarlet Pussy (3.5/5)" is a sleazy slice of Prince's darker side, while in contrast "I Love U In Me (4/5)" is a slower, sexier song. "How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore (4/5)" is so good Alicia Keys covered it. There are plenty of great songs on The B-Sides disc ("Hello", "Irrisistable Bitch", "Shockadelic") but everything is overshadowed by "Erotic City (5/5)". One of Prince's most enduring songs, and one of the greatest floor fillers ever!

There is always arguments when "Best of" CD's are released as to what songs should have been included. Personally i think "Darling Nikki" and "Sometimes it Snows in April" should be on any Prince compilation, but as this is a "Hits" collection only singles are eligible. Still, i would have found room for "Batdance", "Paisley Park" and "I Wish U Heaven" (all of which were singles).

But these are minor grumbles. This is still a collection that shows Prince at the height at his powers. A must have.

Scarlet Artist
It's been widely circulated the eccentric ways of Prince Rogers Nelson. It's a shame that the brotha hasn't gotten the overexposure from his music in recent times as his rumors have. At 26 I will always (unless otherwise shown) believe Prince is one of the most consistent Entertainers of all time. I've yet to see the brotha live but growing up I always felt right there with his music. I mean Adore, Let's go Crazy, When Doves cry shoot all those alone are enough to give a look at the album but he has more such as diamonds and pearls, 1999 etc. A tremendous and artistic brotha who deserves to be examined by the people in the younger generation who want to know what true artistry is and how to draw from it. Give this album a listen and I'm sure that if you don't fully agree you'll be hard pressed to argue it's not worth buying. Hey 3 cds are incentive enough. I have given it 4 stars because of the B sides but hey creativity is......what it is. One luv to all true music fans I believe you'll enjoy this one!

EROTICCITTTAYYY!!!!
All U needknow about this cd is that it has Erotic City on it.U cant get this song NEwhere and it is the best song ever. also all the big hits, its a great cd set ... Read more

Asin: B000002MNF
Subjects:  1. Club/Dance    2. Dance-Pop    3. Funk    4. Neo-Psychedelia    5. Pop    6. Pop/Rock    7. R&B    8. Soul    9. Urban   

Come Upstairs
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (1980)
list price: $9.98 -- our price: $9.98
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Reviews (14)

Carly Simon -- ready for the 1980s
1980 saw several changes for Carly Simon:a new record label (Warner Brothers), a new producer (Mike Mainieri), and a new album called 'Come Upstairs' with a very different sound than her previous works.Even the cover featured photos by photographer Mick Rock, who photographed several pop icons including David Bowie and Debbie Harry.

It was with this album that Carly embraced New Wave, which gave her voice and songs even more of a modern edge."Take Me As I Am," "Stardust," "Them," and the title track are pure early 80s music, addictive and danceable.

"In Pain" is a harrowing epic filled with rage, and no one could but Carly could sing this song in quite way she does.One is reminded of John Lennon's (primal scream) 'Plastic Ono Band' album from ten years before.

"The Desert" and "The Three of us in the Dark," are both haunting and moody, while "Jesse" is pure Top 40 material.

And of course, the standout track is the quiet and poignant "James," which is one of the most beautiful songs she's ever penned.It's a hidden gem, and one that deserves to be included on a retrospective collection.

Highly recommended for Carly Simon fans who might have missed it the first time around.

Depressing and energetic
"Come Upstairs" reeks of the divorce-induced depression that Carly seemed to experience during and after her split from James Taylor. This is one of my favourites though, in that it's memorable and interesting melodically.
The most memorable song on this album was the Top 20 hit "Jesse", reminiscent of 60's pop/rock. It's sensitive and tailor-made for radio airplay and stands the test of time. Its b-side, "Stardust", seems like a weird commentary on the ups and downs of stardom, the weird key changes seeming to suggest delusion with fame. It's one of my favourites, even though the music borders on arrogant rock. "Come Upstairs", "Them", and "Take Me As I Am" are all fast-paced numbers. The title track suggests a semi-sleazy one night stand, "Them" is a creative, slightly robotic, edgy feminist anthem, and "Take Me As I Am" is a song with an edge but without sounding harsh or mean. "In Pain" screams and whimpers for over 6 minutes and is extremely effective in its lyrical content. It says what many pained people are thinking but without sounding innappropriately poetic or unreal. "The Three Of Us In The Dark", actually more about thinking about someone else while being with a lover than about a threesome, is another dark song with a memorable and pleasing harmony in the chorus. "The Desert" is eerie and humbling lyrically, but with a sort of pretentious melody.
At only 9 songs, this album is a little short in duration, but still works cohesively in the end. However, I would only recommend this for people wanting to get to know Carly Simon beyond her biggest hit songs.

Come Upstairs
Well when I first played this record I just knew "Take Me As I Am" was going to be a huge hit and of course it never got played. For reasons I don't understand they chose Jesse. I can't give this album 5 stars because even though I liked it there are some definite problems. For one "Them" is really an embarassing track. This continues a trend she began with Boys In the Trees. She makes one extremely strange pick for a tune on each album after.
Boys In the Trees - Da Bat Fly in Me Face

Spy - Memorial Day
Come Upstairs - Them
Spoiled Girl - My New Boyfriend
I like a couple of these tunes but they are like putting a clowns nose on a pretty girl. Its sort of cute but I like her real nose without the rubber ball.\
I had all her albums when this was released. I think the album was a ballsy all out effort but this is Carly's first attempt to remake herself into something other than a balladeer. "Take me" is one of her best and In Pain she really lets her voice break. But I can only recommend this album to Carly fans who want to hear her do anything. I am that sort of person but I don't think this album stands the test of time as well as "No Secrets", "Another Passenger" and "Boys '". She does have one of the best voices in the industry, but for what its worth, dance music doesn't fit her like a glove. She spends the next three albums trying on different sounds till she comes back to something not far off from where she started before finding a broad audience again. An interesting diversion for Carly enthusiasts. ... Read more

Asin: B000002KLF
Sales Rank: 70592
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. Rock    5. Singer/Songwriter    6. Soft Rock