Editorial Review

Let's see...a rap artist is hyped insufferably, his music is leaked incessantly, his album is delayed indefinitely, the hype grows, rinse, repeat. Welcome to the world of pop music in 2006, when "unauthorized" Internet seepage can somehow manage to simultaneously make and break an aspiring young performer. Lupe Fiasco's unfinished debut CD was slathered all over the Web for months, like some sort of Lonelygirl15, before finally seeing the legitimate light of day. That said, the Chicago-bred rapper, who rose to prominence thanks to his "Touch the Sky" collab with Kanye West, is hardly a slouch. His skittering, low-key rapping style is truly distinctive, and his lyrics are mostly thoughtful and creative without being heavy-handed. Despite frequent comparisons to "thinking man's rappers" from Tribe and De La Soul to Nas, the most apt comparison might be to Kanye West himself: Like West, Fiasco rises above the trappings of the street without sounding condescending or out of touch, and his sound has the same "timeless" quality--partly old-school, partly of the moment. Yet somehow, Read more

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Reviews (57)

A REALLY REALLY!!! good album
I'd first heard of Lupe Fiasco on a track off of Kanye West's album "Late Registration" called "Touch The Sky" i said to myself man this guys good. As 2006 rolls around I kept hearing his first single "Kick,Push" on the radio I knew I had to get this cd when it came out. When I opened it and first played it in my truck OH MAN it was like opening your first present on christmas day. I couldn't stop playing it from "Real" to "The Emporer's Soundtrack" and the track that makes you think of the special girl in your life "Daydreamin" featuring Jill Scott, this is album you should DEFIANTLY add to your collection.

Might be the best album of the '06!
I picked up this album just 2 try something different 4 a change. There hasn't been 2 much good rap/hip-hop lately, but I spoke 2 soon because this album is definitely a classic. Name a rap/hip-hop album u can play from beginning 2 end, there aren't many. This dude is on some other s***, I really was surprised how great this album was. Anytime Jay-Z is backin' u, it is some magic there and Lupe Fiasco opened another door for people who listen 2 rap/hip-hop and others who don't. If u can't feel this joint, something is seriously wrong with u. The only album that may top this is Jay-Z's new joint and Luda's joint wasn't 2 bad either.

the return of "happy rap" for the kids, but with dark undertones
As interesting and clever as Lupe Fiasco is, I have to say, don't believe the hype.What we have here is the return of "happy rap," similar to the Fresh Prince, early De La Soul, and the other middle class rappers that basically influenced Kanye West (who put on this kid).As evidenced by the other posted reviews, Lupe shows that "happy rap" is effective in crossing over and appealing to white kids (and kiddies) and even rock fans. Many of his songs, with their pop rock structures, even sound like rock, especially "Instrumental."Lupe actually sounds a lot like The Future Sound (not of London), a two man crew from New York who had an album back in 1992 called "The Whole Shabang, Vol. 1" which included a lot of clevel jazz and rock samples and also had psychedelic sounds and raps just like this CD.That said, I have to say that the main difference between Lupe and his predecessors is that he does have a bleak side as well as a happy one, and ironically, this is where the young brother shows promise.Some may look upon his stuff as "dork rap" given his square kid flow, schoolboy glasses, and skateboarder personality.But on songs like "He Say She Say," "American Terrorist," and "Kick Push II" (which sounds so much like an old school De La track it borders on plagiarism) he shows an edge that balances out the dorkiness.Maybe the problem lies with his flow itself.At times his raps sound affected like he's trying to say too much in his cadences.Listen to how many times he inhales while he's trying to rhyme fast.Maybe he should stop using so many silly methaphors and similies and just use direct language to make his point (and that doesn't mean he needs to cuss either).In any case, if this kid would just work on his flow some more, develop a little more of an edge, and not come off so much like "I'm Kanye's dorky little brother" than he would be worth the hype. Until then, peep Kenn Starr or Skyzoo for the real kids who are coming up with the hypeness.
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Subjects:  1. Alternative Rap    2. Hip-Hop    3. Midwest Rap    4. Pop    5. Rap    6. Rap & Hip-Hop   

Reviews (6)

Wonderful
I rushed out to buy this album on it's release date and I was not disappointed in the purchase.Every song is beautiful and their voices blend so well.This is an excellent album and anyone who loves Christmas music will LOVE this CD.Everything from the song selection, the arrangements, and the voices is perfection.Hauntingly beautiful.

Let it Snow!!!!
O Come All Ye Faithful Celtic Woman fans to a Christmas Celebration!What a wonderful collection of songs for the holiday season.The girls have out done themselves in Angelic voices and perfect harmony to bring together all that will send your memories into overdrive.Who doesn't remember a warm fireplace and the smell of spiced apples or cookies being whipped up on a cold winter day?All these memories will come up to the surface with festive tunes of Christmas as Carol of the Bells or Ding Dong Merrily on High.Nothing can compare to Meav singing Silent Night or Lisa Kelly's The Christmas Song. The beautiful vocal arrangement of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas will simply warm your soul.Of course, the girls have to show you that they can sing any style song with the swing arrangement of Let It Snow! David Downes' masterful arranging and Celtic Woman's beautiful voices combine to give something for everyone on this Yule tide CD whether your tastes are traditional Irish, festive, religious, or swing! Buy it now and start your season right.Buy the deluxe edition and get an ornament from Celtic Woman to hang on your tree!

Better than your wildest dreams
If you are into Celtic Woman and enjoyed their album, this is for you.
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Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop    3. Xmas Vocal   

Editorial Review

The Beatles' last days as a band were as productive as any major pop phenomenon that was about to split. After recording the ragged-but-right Read more

Reviews (988)

pass me the pipe bro
this is genuine drug addix muzak, come together is sexist theme, the sun king is slang for heroin, you only give me your funny paper is a hint at LSD use, so this spells out a terrible disgusting and bad influence on your clean mind. I have also always hated the cover and now I see why.
It doesn't get any better than this..
The Beatles last album just happens to be their best. Only the Beatles could get together one last time, dispite all the personal acrimony and substance abuse, and deliver the ultimate timeless swan song.
plus one more star if you please.
All I can tell you is that this is the way a swansong SHOULD sound.Even though they had major issues amongst each other at this time,they along with producer George Martin put out one hell of an album.This time around George Harrison came up with two of his best in "Something" and (my favorite song on the album) "Here Comes The Sun".Although John's heart wasn't truly in it,he still contributed "Come Together" and "She's So Heavy".Both songs are John Lennon classics .Paul's major additives were the infamous second side/second half medley,and a McCartney classic in "You Never Give Me Your Money" and it's reprise during the medley.It's mind boggling how a group can evolve from "I Want To Hold Your Hand" to "Here Comes The Sun" in six years.
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Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. British Psychedelia    3. England    4. Hard Rock    5. Pop    6. Pop/Rock    7. Popular Music    8. Prog-Rock/Art Rock    9. Psychedelic    10. Rock    11. Rock & Roll    12. Rock/Pop    13. Sunshine Pop   

Reviews (11)

Another anointed worship experience
The more I listen to this album, the more I enjoy the worship experience of it.My husband was not at all familiar with contemporary Christian music when he met me, but he is now listening to this album nonstop whenever he drives the car that currently houses it.Listening to these songs is a great way to start and end any commute and helps to put us in the right heart- and mindset on our way to church, too!
10 STARS - this is what Worship was created to be
OK - instead of just saying this is great - i will tell you in detail why Chris Tomlin is potentially the best worship leader and collaborator of our time...
Amazing!
Chris Tomlin has once again produced a remarkable new worship CD. If you like any of his music, you are sure to like See the Morning. His songs are fresh and amazing contemporary Christian soon to be hits. Check it out! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. CCM    2. Christian    3. Pop    4. Religious / Contemp. Christian   

Editorial Review

The success of his debut, Read more

Reviews (64)

Nice album from a very nice guy
This review contains nothing new from what you have already read from the other customers who have heard, and own this particular album. This is straight up country music album, as what a country album should be. I bought this album mainly because I was blown away by the song "Your Man". Although the songs here are strong, besides that smash hit "Your Man", highlights of this record are: Lord Have Mercy on a Country Boy, Way Down South, and Gravity. Why I didn't give this album a full 5 star is there are some songs that I didn't particularly enjoy: "No Rush" is a drag, too slow for my liking therefore I think it's entitled appropriately and "White Noise" is an okay song, I just never was a fan of Jon Anderson. Overall, Josh's second release is worth the listen. Enjoy!

blown away
At work, I only needed the traffic report before hitting the hiway, and found it on some country station. I normally do not listen to country, being a classical music lover. Whilst listening, this singer came on with the 'your man' song, and I found myself amazed at this voice. Days to follow I looked forward to the traffic report, and to hopefully hear this voice again. They played another song 'will you go with me' by this singer, and his name was mentioned after, and so in knowing his name, I found his albums on amazon. Well now I can say I definately am a country fan, and am ordering his music. Am very impressed and happy for finding thisopen door into a beautiful sector of music that I haven't explored before.
Not a perfect album, but good
From the first time I heard "Would you go with me" I loved that song. (The video is good, too.) The banjo and mandolin combine so beautifully that the tune sticks in your head and heart.I am not a big country fan to begin with, but Turner's voice was so good I figured I'd buy the album.
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Subjects:  1. Americana    2. Contemporary Country    3. Country    4. Neo-Traditionalist Country    5. Pop   

Editorial Review

Unlike Russell Watson, to whom he is being compared (along with Andrea Bocelli), Vittorio Grigolo is a real opera singer. He sang as a boy treble with Pavarotti many years ago and has sung in Read more

Reviews (15)

A very pleasing voice, but...
I was very impressed by Mr. Grigolo's singing. I think he has an amazing voice and a very successful future ahead of him. However, I hope that his choice of songs improves. I did like Tu Sei, it was my favorite on the album. The singing was pure and the music accompaniment was very good. I also liked You Are My Miracle (duet w/Nicole Scherzinger). I was pleasantly surprised by Nicole's singing. I think they made a great collaboration on this song.
AWESOME!
This is an amazing CD. Mr. Grigolo has a marvelous voice. Cannot wait to see him in concert. BRAVISSIMO!!!

WOWWe have a new addition to the Tenors
I also saw Vittorio on PBS and just loved the music and this man's singing ability.I bought 6 cd's to give to all my friends for Christmas.When they arrived I had to listen to all the selections to make sure I had made a good purchase.Whew, Vittorio Grigolo is really fantastic and I know my friends will agree when they get their CD's. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 20th/21st Century Music for Voice and Keyboard    2. Classical Crossover    3. Miscellaneous    4. Miscellaneous Music    5. Music Theater    6. Musical Theater    7. Pop    8. Pop Vocals    9. Vocal    10. Vocal Music   

Editorial Review

Rank 'em how you like, Read more

Reviews (569)

a killjoy CD
This rubbish is trually an killjoy CD, what with no hi-pitched girls voices and sexy rhythms??? you call that music?? you must be mad for starters and crazy on top of that. One good song : Think for yourself, but don't care much for the performances at all.
Rock + Folk + Beatles = GREAT!
Although I don't own this album, my dad does and I listen to it all the time. Songs like "I'm Looking Through You", "Drive My Car", "Wait", and "The Word" rock! Other soft songs like "In My Life", "Nowhere Man", "Norwegian Wood", and "Michelle" are good to. So if you don't already have it, go out and get it!

RUBBER SOUL IS AS REAL AS IT GETS
I purchased this album in 1966 and was blown away, but first had to readjust from the Fab's earlier works and learn to appreciate how different Rubber Soul was from Help, yet still analogous. I mean, we all knew it was the Beatles when I've Just Seen A Face (American release) leaped into our ears upon our first listen, but they had transcended their classic sound a year earlier, surpassing anything they or anyone else had come close to perfecting prior to Rubber Soul. I'm still marveled by these lads, who were in their early 20's during the time Rubber Soul was composed and recorded, and their incredible sophistication for only being barely out of their teens. It's always been difficult for me to listen to anything new without comparing it to their standards. I guess that's not a grumble. I was so lucky to be elevated to this level of music appreciation at such an early age that it has forever changed my manner of thinking. This is one heck of a classy album and my fave forever! It just keeps getting better with every listen. If I may borrow John's line - "In my life...I love them more!" ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bass    2. British Invasion    3. England    4. Folk-Rock    5. Pop    6. Pop/Rock    7. Popular Music    8. Rock    9. Rock & Roll    10. Rock/Pop    11. Singer/Songwriter   

Editorial Review

This may be his first album in over a decade, but veteran Detroit rock icon Bob Seger shows he's lost none of his signature songwriting chops, sense of blue collar yearning or distinctive vocal prowess during his record biz sabbatical. Rather than reinvent himself for a turbulent marketplace that's regressed from alt.rock to teeny-pop in his absence, Seger stays largely true to his roots here. The album's Nashville recording locale and Seger's winning duet with Patti Loveless on "The Answer's in the Question" reaffirm how much the lines between roots rock and contemporary country have blurred while he was on the sidelines, a notion that's underscored on Seger's raucous turn with fellow Motor City native Kid Rock on their cover of Vince Gill's "Real Mean Bottle." Yet forceful ballads like "Wait For Me" and "Won't Stop" show there's still gold to be mined in the vein of the singer's epochal '70s work, while "Wreck This Heart" rocks admirably and the melancholy closer "The Long Goodbye" showcases Seger as accomplished one man band. All in all a compelling musical argument for the notion that Read more

Reviews (11)

Simply the Best
I don't have much to add.If you love Seger, get this CD.LOVE IT!

LAME vintage concert footage
What a joke, yes yes, I know this is a CD mostly, and the DVD is then added, but here is why I flunk the whole thing.
What Is Bob Singing about now??
I'm still trying to understand what he means behind the song roll me away and Miami..Phhhhhhhh.Remember Uncle Joe.... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Detroit Rock    2. Heartland Rock    3. Pop    4. Rock    5. Rock/Pop    6. United States of America   

Reviews (8)

A fantastic, eclectic Holiday album....
I really am enjoying this album.There is a great variety of tunes here, from traditional to contemporary and even some rare gems.My favorite, as with most people, is the holiday version of "From A Distance."It's enchanting.The duet with Johnny Mathis on "Winter Wonderland/Let It Snow!Let It Snow!Let It Snow!" is also amazing.In "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" I was originally a bit disappointed when she used the peppier "Hang a shining star upon the highest bow," instead of using the original, sadder, "Until then we'll have to muddle through somehow".However, for the second time around at the end of the song she used the original and darker lyrics.What a way to settle the debate!
A GREAT new Christmas album!
What a treat this album is!Great tunes!Well produced!Bette's in wonderful voice!Some of the highlights are "Mele Kalikimaka" (a rare, fun song and classic Bette), "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" and a great duet with Johnny Mathis.The new Christmas version of "From a Distance" is wonderful; surprisingly arranged and actually quite moving.I just love this album and plan on giving it to several people this Christmas!Thank you, Bette!

A True Holiday Classic!
After nearly 40 years in show business recording 20 albums with 23 chart topping hits, Bette Midler has finally recorded a long overdue holiday album and she doesn't disappoint.
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Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop    3. Xmas Vocal   

Editorial Review

Despite their signing to Def Jam, on Read more

Features

• Explicit Lyrics

Reviews (47)

THE ROOTS CREW
Yo the roots come sick wit it again! The title track ranks among thier best ever. The first 5 songs are all fya. Questlove, though the human beat machine breaks off some crisp beats. He alternates between electric and traditional sets. There is nothing as jazzy as "one shine", "what they do", or "break you off". Progessive hip hop/rock comes alive on title track (my fav). "Here I come" is another dope track. The keyboard guitar and bass breath 2gether on this album. This is truly one of the few hip-hop concept albums. G.T. is bold, thick, daring, melodic yet heavy. Though it ain't classic The Roots lived up to the wait of this album. I wish they got mo props and pub. They deserve it. They signed to Def Jam and went more underground. F^CK JAY-Z!!!!!!!!!!!!! IT DONT FEEL RIGHT SUPPORT THE ROOTS One.

CD Review: The Roots - Game Theory
I don't know what took me so long to review this CD, but here it is.
Game Theory
All, I have to say is wow.Who would have thought The Roots would have grown into mighty musicians.They are a movement and if you are just catching on, then you need to go spend the $200 on released material, white labels, mixtapes, concert tapes and DVDs.The Roots have always delivered the right music for the right moment.Somehow, they have never been able to escape the realm of the backpackers.After signing with Def Jam under the Jay dynasty, I was hoping Def Jam's massive marketing machine would send them skyrocketing into mainstream music success.
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Subjects:  1. Alternative Rap    2. Hardcore Rap    3. Hip-Hop    4. Jazz-Rap    5. Pop    6. Rap    7. Rap & Hip-Hop   

Editorial Review

On his third disc, the one-man musical marvel known as Five for Fighting proves yet again that all that's standing between him and peace of mind--not the fleeting kind, but full-on, to-the-bone, heart-and soul-cleansing peace of mind--is a song. Read more

Reviews (28)

Trilogy
Completes the trilogy of America Town and The Battle for Everything.If you liked the other albums, this one is more "musical" with stronger arrangements.Favorite songs include "World," "Freedom," and "California Justice."

Something I really listen to
This to me is what good music is I think this is a CD that should be required listening in life it's truly listenable and likeable it's not offensive or distracting is music you can listen over and over again and i have this is one of the best pieces of music this year if not this decade.

Two Lights- 5 Stars
I just purchased this CD and I have fallen in love with it. John Ondrasik is one of the best out there. I highly recommend you to get this CD. It's one that I will always enjoy. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Alternative Pop/Rock    3. Pop    4. Rock    5. Rock/Pop    6. Singer/Songwriter   

Editorial Review

Sounding like the confident, ambitious superstars they already are in their native UK, Muse follows up their breakthrough Read more

Reviews (107)

Heavenly Muse-ic
This is my first true exposure to The Muse and I have to say I am just blown away by their sound.I just love the vocals and the way that the cd just naturally flows from one song the other.If you are a fan of British alternative music then I would highly recommend this cd.

they're losing it!
...and it makes me so sad.i'm a huge fan of "showbiz" and was even more blown away by "origin of symmetry."but they started to push it with "absolution," and after this one, i'm afraid they're finished.i'm getting very tired of the uninspired and repetitive piano arpeggios, and while the guitars are decent and high energy, they ultimately lack the creativity and distinction that muse achieved in the previous albums.the lyrics are trite, and the vocals are more whiney than ever.it's just a very dull, unimportant album.
Supermassive!
Muse brings the pomp on their fourth CD, and let it be known that they are ready to fill every arena with the bombast. This is meant in the most complimentary of ways. From the opening crescendos of "Take A Bow" to the prog-space epic "Knights Of Cydonia," this is the best rock record since Queen and Yes hung up their fog machines.
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Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Neo-Prog    3. Pop    4. Rock    5. Rock/Pop   

Reviews (12)

Ha! Mine's longer since I was patient!
We had to run a bunch of family errands on Saturday with Springsteen's Seeger Sessions in the car. The kids loved it. I guess I've raised them right as they recognized most of the songs. There are no bad versions of Erie Canal to the ears of my back seat.
Seeger? Not Really........
I'm a bit at odds with this work because these are not songs written by Pete Seeger. Does it not seem just a tad suspicious that Springsteen deliberately did not use a single song that was actually written by Seeger? Instead using songs "made popular by" Seeger to avoid paying royalty fees while freely using songs in the public domain waste bin of lapsed copyrighted material. Then, after using these lapsed songs, he went out and ascertained his own copyright for the arrangements. Therefore, if other artists would like to do these songs, they now have to pay Bruce a royalty fee! You know, for a socialist he's one heck of a capitalist by commandeering these songs for free to maximize his profits. Isn't this at odds with his own well crafted champion of the underdog image? This American Land edition is aptly titled because even though Bruce despises the American capitalist economic system of free markets, he plays it like a fiddle for his own accumulation of wealth.

Seeger Sessions Revised & Revisted
We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions is the first album Bruce Springsteen has released where he did not write a single song. The album consists of songs sung by the legendary folk artist Pete Seeger. The album differs from Mr. Springsteen's other forays into folk music as it is not an acoustic affair. Backed by a seventeen piece band, the album has a rollicking, spirit raising, old time vibe. Mr. Springsteen seems invigorated by working with a new band and he really lets loose. Vocally, he hasn't sounded this energetic on an album since Born In The USA. One would think that by covering songs by Mr. Seeger, that this would be an overtly political record. While there are political overtones that explore war, poverty & strife, the music is so joyous and uplifting that the heavy subjects don't bog the feeling down. "Oh, Mary, Don't You Weep" is straight out of New Orleans with a dixeland sound. "Pay Me My Money Down" is a shuffling old sea shanty. "Old Dan Tucker" is a roaring folk rocker. "Jesse James" is an outlaw ballad that rolls along while "Froggie' Went a Courtin'" is a six string slappin' rave up. "Mrs. McGrath" is most political of the songs about a mother whose son loses his legs in a war. Mr. Springsteen updates the lyrics to reflect current times, but the message is powerful either way. We Shall Overcome is a perfect blend of what Mr. Springsteen does best and harkens back to his glory days. It mixes up poignant lyrics and tales of the working man with an uplifting spirit and a wall of sound production.The new American Land edition adds five songs.Two, "Buffalo Gals" and "How Can I Keep From Singing" were included on the DVD side of the original release.The three new songs are all first rate and add a more overt political bent to the album."Bring 'Em Home" rings true about the Iraq war, "American Land" sounds like something that could have been on Nebraska and "How Can A Poor Man Stand Such Times And Live" is a tremendous song.
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Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock    3. Rock/Pop    4. United States of America   

Editorial Review

You'll forget all the Tiny Tim, Don Ho, and Hawaiian-music jokes about the ukulele when you hear Read more

Reviews (3)

Ukulele Virtuoso
OK, there are 2 words I never, ever though I would use together. Virtuoso and ukulele.That is, until I heard "Gently Weeps".This disc is simply amazing.I heard Scott Simon on NPR's Weekend Edition talking to Jake, and what I heard intrigued me enough to gamble and spend the $$ for this disc.I figured, what I heard was good, and if the uke was a good enough instrument for George Harrison then it was going to be OK.Man, was I surprised at what was coming through my speakers.This man is one of the most incredible musicians I have ever heard.The songs he covers, especially his versions of "While my Guitar Gently Weeps","Misty", "Spain" and "Ave Maria" are some of the best versions anywhere anytime.Half of the disc is original compositions, which are absolutely beautiful.Of special interest are the bonus songs, here Jake plays with other musicians and is able to concentrate on creating fluid lead lines instead of creating both rhythm and lead as he does when he plays solo ukulele.
His Royal Highness
One word: wow.
Thanks, Jake
Jake Shimabukuro has done it again.A good, solid collection of tunes which show his talents well.I am especially happy to have the Star Spangled Banner with this album.
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Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock    3. Rock/Pop   

Features

• Live

Reviews (10)

Y UN DIA VOLVIERON
Para todos los fans de DPM, estos 2 DVDs y un CD son simplemente extraordinarios.
hold the camera still
cinematography is crap..too many cheap effects...jump cuts, makes for a rough viewing especially compared to devotional or one night in paris..also the sound is flat...does not seem to be very inspired...

The best DM live dvd by far
This is by far the most enjoyable dvd by DM. Yes i am sure that Devotional DVD and Exciter DVD were great but in terms of denstiy and powerful, it seems that this dvd is better, Anton is great for making music video but i don't think he is good for live performance as the camera angels in Devotional DVD and Exciter DVD looked plain and focus too much on the screens and stage (which he designed).Yes, i agreed with other reviewers that there're a bit too much of effect on this
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Subjects:  1. Alternative Dance    2. Alternative Pop/Rock    3. England    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock    6. Rock    7. Rock/Pop    8. Synth Pop   

Editorial Review

You might think it's easy for a songwriter with a high degree of prowess and a distinctive guitar sound to make an all-instrumental CD. But on Read more

Reviews (18)

Mesmerizing!
Peter Frampton is better than ever. This album is mesmerizing especially "Float" - a must have album. If you don't have it yet, get it.

An Important Artistic Work For Frampton
Have listened to Peter Frampton's new instrumental album "Fingerprints" a few times now, and wanted to post a review.It's really good, but it's really different from his prior albums too.Being an instrumental album and having read the pre-release press I was expecting that, but was still surprised at the wide range of musical styles covered here.On first listen I wasn't sure it sounded like Frampton at all, on 2nd listen it sounded much more familiar, and by the third listen I could hear Frampton all over it.His fluid guitar leads & sound are unmistakable, but it's the shifting song styles he plays them over that make the album so diverse.This sounds like the kind of music he's probably always played when he was practicing, playing for his own pleasure, warming up during a soundcheck, or jamming on in the studio between takes for more "regular" sounding songs during previous album sessions.This is an important album for Frampton, and I think it establishes clearly just how accomplished a guitarist & musician he is.Most fans know this already, but this album shows just how much command over the guitar he really has, and how comfortably he can branch out into all sorts of playing styles to make the instrument do whatever he wants.More of a guitarist who also sings, rather than a singer who also plays guitar.Not all rock musicians could record such a diverse album as this.Each song demonstrates a completely different aspect of his playing ability, and puts him in the ranks of other jazz/rock/fusion instrumentalists.Another nice touch is that none of the songs play on for longer than they need to.On an instrumental album it would be easy to just play on forever, but all 14 songs here have very tight themes and arrangements, and keep the album moving.A few notes on the songs:
His best - again
When I wrote a review for Frampton's last disc, Now, I said it was the best thing he's ever done and that he belongs in the pantheon of great guitarists.With Fingerprints he picks up right where he left off, sans lyrics.In an interview I saw he said that this is the record he's always wanted to make ("I've been living a lie for the last 40 years") and that comes through in his playing; you can hear how much he enjoys his work.In the end Fingerprints drives home the point I made in reviewing Now; Frampton is one of the best guitarists rock has ever produced. I won't go so far as to say he's the absolute best, but I will say there is none better.Fingerprints is a portrait how a guitar can sound in the hands of a gifted virtuoso. If you are interested in hearing another great guitarist then after you put Fingerprints in your shopping cart check out Koala Motel by Anne McCue. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Arena Rock    3. England    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock    6. Rock    7. Rock/Pop   

Features

• Soundtrack

Reviews (5)

" LEt'S EaT CaKE"
I can not wait to see this film. Looking at the trailers I was more than curious why songs from New Order and The Cure are being used to promotea period piece. It sparked my interest since the images and the music seem to work so well in a 30 second preview on the small screen.My question has been answered, it happens that, that is the score for the film. The soundtrack is great for a rainy day or even a sunny day outside it evokes all kinds of emotion. I was plesantly surprised and understand why this music was incorporated in the film. Marie Antoniette was a teenage queen, rebellious and high spirited torn between love and monarch and in no way different than a regular teenage girl today. The music in this soundtrack can so well have been her music of that day like her story as real today ,making it enjoyable for todays eyes and ears. Note the second disc includes a dash of the classical, just sit back kick off your shoes drink some wine and snuggle.

A Bit "Gloomy Gus" for My Taste
The trailer's use of New Order and Gang of Four inspired me to check out the soundtrack.I'm looking forward to seeing the movie, and hope/expect that the images will add fun and color to these dark-leaning songs. I have a lot of the disc one songs already: Bow Wow Wow and New Order always get me moving (although "Ceremony" is one of NO's gloomiest),Gang of Four always gets me doing the herky-jerky (interesting to see how their song fits into the movie -- GOF is strongly anti-consumption), and The Strokes do lush scruffy privilege well.On the whole, the soundtrack seems too heavy... a rich texture, but not UPbeat enough for my taste.The concept, however, is inspiring!And I prefer to light a candle rather than curse the darkness.So here's the songs I just burned to my "Marie II" cd, to play along with the Marie dvd when it comes out.(Feel free to do so yourself!):
what a great soundtrack!
sofia coppola has put together an amazing soundtrack for her new movie.i saw the movie in the netherlands this past summer and it is one of my all time favorites!the soundtrack creates a youthful, haunting combination of 80s hits and classical/atmospheric pieces.i created a mix from the two double discs that i could play at parties, leaving out some of the slower songs...but thats not to say these songs arent wonderful.some of them are just those ones that pull at your heart, especially after seeing the movie, because most of the songs are so well placed in it.who would of thought that Hong Kong Garden by Siouxsie and the Banshees would fit in so well at an 18th century aristocrats ball?i guess sophia coppola.see the movie, buy the album...they are both an absolute wonder to the senses. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Soundtrack    3. Soundtracks & Film Scores   

Editorial Review

Some writers and fans have taken to calling this album Read more

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Reviews (163)

Subtly, strangely catchy..brave new world robotic pop..
From the beginning of the title song on Thom Yorke's new solo album, with the grainy piano sample and all, I was prepared to not like this album. This album is predominantly electronic, and I really like electronic music (Warp, Aphex, Global Goon, Boards, Plaid). I even liked Radiohead's last few albums more than anyone I know, most of my friends despise them. But I was hoping Yorke would do something on this "side project" more like old Radiohead, honestly. Right, expectations dashed, and once I got over that, I could appreciate this album for what it is.
Brilliant. You just have to give it time.
I was immensely dissapointed with this album the first time I heard it. But I kept listening and one day it just clicked. First it was Harrowdown Hill...possibly the best song of the year in my opinion, then "And it rained all night" then slowly every song on this album became a masterpiece, there is a certain gradiousity in this albums simplicity. Seriously, If you like Kid A, Amnesiac, or Hail to the Theif...you will come around on this. One of the top 5 albums I've heard this year.

Thom Yorke: no talent big-mouth with nothing to say
Funny how black kids outta Harlem and Watts know the score when it comes to capitalism (it works if you let it) despite having never benefited from it, yet rich white kids view it with nothing short of contempt and disdain, as if "work" were another dirty four-letter word.
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Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Experimental Rock    3. Indie Electronic    4. Pop    5. Rock    6. Rock/Pop   

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Reviews (9)

massive, awesome!Los Lobos return to peak form
Record of the year!Los Lobos have emerged from a long period of coasting, their great musical triumphs seemingly behind them (HOW WILL THE WOLF SURVIVE? and KIKO, their two greatest records, from 1984 and 1992), with a record the equal of those masterpieces.
Exquisito Cancion Ciclo!!
Whenever you start talking about music inspired by Los Angeles you'll inevitably provoke the same fauning drivel about the usual suspects. "MORRISON HOTEL" they'll say. Yawn, I'm not 16 anymore. "HOTEL CALIFORNIA" someone will yell, & then start with the gawd-awful qoutes..."they just can't kill the beast!" Can I get ya another COORS LIGHT my sorry little friend? Raymond Chandler & James M. Cain played better "MUSIC" than that on a typewriter, & don't even talk to me about Jackson Browne. If X-Los Angeles ain't on that list, I don't want to hear it. A case could be made for Hole's-Celebrity Skin & Ry Cooder's-Chavez Ravine but with the new LOS LOBOS album "The Town & The City" you can send the jury home. Case Closed! This is the most hauntingly exquisite musical document about the city of fallen angels ever. Cesar Rosas voice is chilling on "If You Were Only Here Tonight". Something happens in the song somewhere between 3-4am. We're not sure what transpired but it was bad and the gentle sorrow in his lament suggests it happens here all the time. A few songs later the incomparable David Hidalgo turns a whiter shade of pale recognizing the "LITTLE THINGS" we take for granted. "No Puedo Mas" shakes & rattles like a neighbour having much more fun. You're either dancing or pounding on the wall. This entire song cycle is a tour that starts in "The Valley", drives through "The City" ends in "The Town" of East L.A. It's dark & it's sad. It's strong & it's hopeful. Needless to say these are peerless musicians. Visionaries who consistently seek out new sonic landscapes. This is a masterwork!

Victims of their own talent
If this album had been issued by a band whose name consisted of a number and a noun; and whose members were all in their twenties, decked out in skinny glasses, black leather, little beards, and kinky hair, and whose album art consisted of the band members staring glumly into the eye of a camera,this CD would be HUGE.
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Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock    3. Rock/Pop    4. Roots Rock    5. Tex-Mex   

Editorial Review

John Mayer's big-label debut was a multiplatinum breakthrough success whose sensual anthem "Your Body Is a Wonderland" scored him an unlikely Grammy for Best Pop Vocal. That out-of-the-box succes--and more than a few critics grousing that Mayer's muse was cloned from Dave Matthews--primed him for the typical sophomore slump. Instead, Mayer delivers an album whose tone and title suggests a gentle, tongue-in-cheek rebuke to his naysayers. Propelled by the subtle ambitions of an expanded pop-jazz framework (largely courtesy of Sheryl Crow/No Doubt/Jellyfish producer Jack Joseph Puig), Mayer's breathy vocal tack now suggests a detached, conflicted, and significantly less precious incarnation of Michael Franks. But, the way he weds fluid pop hooks to lyrical concerns whose self-obsessions are undercut by telling dollops of self-deprecation from the my-spirit's-too-big/smart-for-my-body laments of "Clarity," the upbeat single "Bigger Than My Body," and the bluesy plea "Come Back to Bed" to the cautionary, melodically-rich "Daughters" and even the antimaterialist agitprop of "Something's Missing should clearly draw in listeners." Read more

Reviews (616)

He Ain't Heavy...
Up until getting Continuum and listening to it twenty times, Heavier Things remained in my head as my all time favorite JM CD.Everyone loves Room for Squares and we all got introduced to John through that one, and everyone loved it immediately.But the first time I listened to Heavier Things, I thought, "not quite as good as Squares."The second time I listened to it, I thought, "hey this is pretty damn good."Then I started listening to it out on my daily walks, and the more I listened to it, the more I thought it was amazing.I liked John after Squares, but it was listening to Heavier Things over and over that really made me fall madly in love with him.Made me want to see him in concert, and again... Made me buy Try! and Any Given Thursday (DVD and CD, both great), and Continuum, and devour them and play them at home, in the car, etc. etc.I hope that John will keep putting out new stuff for a long, long time.I can't can't can't get enough of his music.He ain't bad to look at either!

Holds up to Squares....
John Mayer is a true musician in a time of mindless pop & annoying celebrity singer wannabees. I had to listen to Heavier Things a couple times before I appreciated the more subtle and mature tone. That may be the reason why some were disappointed. It lacks the "hooks" and some of the "wit" of Squares but has an abundance of true musicianship, emotion and maturity. For me the big hits of Room for Squares (No Such Thing & Your Body is a Wonderland) have worn a bit thin over time. There are no such tracks on Heavier. I've listened countless times & none have gotten old for me. Heavier is a beginning to end listen. No tracks need be skipped.
John Mayer: New to me.
Though John Mayer is new to me, I have always liked the 'soft rock' genre. I got drawn in by the easy rock guitar selections, (especially 'Clarity') and listening to the lyrics came later.
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Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Alternative Country-Rock    3. Alternative Pop/Rock    4. Pop    5. Rock    6. Rock/Pop    7. Singer/Songwriter