Form & Function

Form & Function

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Like the best drum & bass musicians, Photek explores the nuances of the rhythms that most jungle musicians, blinded by dance-floor strobe lights, take for granted. His rarefied electronic tracks rarely overlap more than a handful of discrete sonic elements. On "The Water Margin," for example, cetacean burbles bounce amid an extended percussion solo and a lone, vaporous, synthetic woodwind. And that's it. The composerly sense of musical development Photek brings to these skeletal constructions has lent his earliest recordings a reputation as the blueprint of avant-garde drum & bass. Four of those early recordings, "The Water Margin" among them, are collected on Form & Function, which also includes six appropriately uncluttered remixes (by J Majik, Doc Scott, Peshay, and others) and two brand new tracks, one spooky, one funky. --Marc Weidenbaum

Spin
The thing about Photek's production style, though, is that it often blinds you with science instead of catapulting you into orbit. Only "Water Margin" bristles with real excitement; the rest settle for merely impressing you with craftmanship.

Form & Function

Tracks:

Prde from Suite No. 1 in G Major for Cello, BWV 1007
II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
Jesus, bleibet meine Freude (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring), BWV 147
Schafe kn sicher weiden (Sheep May Safely Graze), BWV 208
Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (Sleepers Awake), BWV 645
The Swan from Carnival of the Animals (Chamber Version)
Havanaise, Op. 83
Mtation from Tha
Liebesfreud Instrumental
Allegro ben ritmato e deciso from Three Preludes
Vocalise Vocal
IV. Allegro from Sonata in D minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 40
Andante Cantabile for Cello Solo and String Orchestra, Op. posth.
IV. Rondo alla Zingarese. Presto from Quartet No. 1 in G minor for Piano and Strings, Op. 25
III. Finale. Allegro moderato from Concerto in B minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 104

Tracks:

Cristal
A lenda do caboclo
Chega de Saudade Live
Wapango Live
Libertango
Appalachia Waltz Solo Cello Version
Butterfly's Day Out
1B
Pickin' from Three Pieces for Solo Cello
Simple Gifts
The Mission
Gabriel's Oboe
The Falls Album Version
The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
The Cellist of Sarajevo - A Lament in Rondo Form for Solo 'Cello, Op. 12
Chi passa per'sta strada
Mido Mountain (Chinese Traditional)
Mohini (Enchantment)
Baroque in Rhythm from Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio
Anything Goes Instrumental
I Could Have Danced All Night Extended version

Amazon.com

Here are three dozen pieces of music, all played by Yo-Yo Ma, culled from his extensive discography. Aside from the technical mastery and beautiful tone that are absolutes in all of his playing, one is dazzled by his curiosity and ability to adapt to so many forms and types of music. His Bach and Vivaldi are pellucid and played with non-sentimental crispness, his tango music gritty and rhythmically pungent, his jazz seemingly spontaneous, the "Meditation" from Thais simply ravishing, "Anything Goes" a romp, and the Appalachian music performed with both respect and a great twang, while the traditional Chinese music is fascinating. It's really a matter of how much Ma loves whatever he plays here, how entirely he becomes involved in it, and what a fine partner he invariably is to other musicians. This collection is a doozy--it is truly "essential." --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

pure genius.......2007-05-21

No instrument asks more from the soul of an artist as the cello does.
Yo Yo Ma shows to be master of the instrument and his interpretations en technique are pure genius. Everyone should have this album in his (or hers of course) basic classical collection

Another great Yo-Yo Disc.......2007-05-15

The set-up with the classical pieces on the first disc and the other on the second is excellent.

first disc great- second a flop.......2007-04-12

the first disc is awesome. the second disc is weird and boring.

Encore.......2007-03-31

Incredible. My young cellist (son) loves it. Beautiful music. The album is well organized and each song transitions nicely.

The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma.......2007-03-29

I've found this collection to be extremely delightful! It gives you a sense of the versatility of Yo-Yo Ma like no other, with one disc being dedicated more to his classical side, while the other explores jazz and world music venues. Not your typical "greatest hits" collection.

Average customer rating:

Picasso in sound
Great but NOT complete
There's only one.
Don't forget Satie was an Anti-Romantic
"Electric Spirit of Eric Satie" fans this is the one !

Satie: Piano Works

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Debussy: Piano Works
The Best of Erik Satie
After the Rain...The Soft Sounds of Erik Satie
Satie: Gymnopédies No1-3; Gnossiennes No1-6
The Magic of Satie

ASIN: B000002SBP
Release Date: 1992-01-23

Tracks:

Oeuvres Pour Piano: Gymnopedie I
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Gymnopedie II
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Gymnopedie III
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Les Trois Valses distingu du preux dI: Sa taille
Oeuvres Pour Piano: II: Son binocle
Oeuvres Pour Piano: III: Ses jambes
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Trois Gnossiennes: I Lent
Oeuvres Pour Piano: II Avec nnement
Oeuvres Pour Piano: III Lent
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Trois Gnossiennes: IV Lent
Oeuvres Pour Piano: V Mod
Oeuvres Pour Piano: VI Avec conviction et avec une tristesse rigoureuse
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Trois Mouvements en forme de poire, uatre mains: Mani de commencement
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Prolongation du m
Oeuvres Pour Piano: I
Oeuvres Pour Piano: II
Oeuvres Pour Piano: III
Oeuvres Pour Piano: En plus
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Redite
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Croquis et agaceries d'un gros bonhomme en bois: I Tyrolienne turque
Oeuvres Pour Piano: II Danse maigre (a mani de ces messieurs)
Oeuvres Pour Piano: III Espa (Sorte de valse)
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Sonatine bureaucratique
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Trois Nocturnes: I Doux et calme
Oeuvres Pour Piano: II Simplement
Oeuvres Pour Piano: III Un peu mouvement
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Premi penset sonneries de la Rose Croix: Air de ldre
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Air du Grand Maitre
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Air du Grand Prieur
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Le Fils des oiles: Prde du 1er acte: la Vocation
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Prde du IIe acte: l'Initiation
Oeuvres Pour Piano: Prde du IIIe acte: l'Incantation

Tracks:

Jack In The Box: Prelude
Jack In The Box: Entracte
Jack In The Box: Final
Sports et Divertissements: Choral inappetissant
Sports et Divertissements: La Balanre
Sports et Divertissements: La Chasse
Sports et Divertissements: La Come italienne
Sports et Divertissements: Le Ril de la Mari
Sports et Divertissements: Colin-Maillard
Sports et Divertissements: La Pe
Sports et Divertissements: Le Yachting
Sports et Divertissements: Le Bain de mer
Sports et Divertissements: Le Carnaval
Sports et Divertissements: Le Golf
Sports et Divertissements: La Pieuvre
Sports et Divertissements: Les Courses
Sports et Divertissements: Les Quatre-Coins
Sports et Divertissements: Le pique-nique
Sports et Divertissements: Le Water-chute
Sports et Divertissements: Le Tango
Sports et Divertissements: Le Traau
Sports et Divertissements: Le Flirt
Sports et Divertissements: Le Feu d'artifice
Sports et Divertissements: Le Tennis
Oeuvres Pour Piano: I D'Holothurie
Embryons desseches: II D'Edriophtalma
Embryons desseches: III De Podophtalma
Preludes flasques (pour un chien): I Voix d'interieur
Preludes flasques (pour un chien): II. Idylle cynique
Preludes flasques (pour un chien): III. Chanson canine
Preludes flasques (pour un chien): IV. Avec camaraderie
En habit de cheval (a 4 mains): I Choral
En habit de cheval (a 4 mains): II Fugue litanique
En habit de cheval (a 4 mains): III Autre chose
En habit de cheval (a 4 mains): IV Fugue de papier
Apercus desagreables: I Pastorale
Apercus desagreables: II Choral
Apercus desagreables: III Fugue
Descriptions automatiques: I Sur un vaisseau
Descriptions automatiques: II Sur une lanterne
Descriptions automatiques: III Sur un casque
3 Petites pieces montees (a 4 mains): De l'enfance de Pantagruel (Reverie)
3 Petites pieces montees (a 4 mains): Marche de Cocagne (Demarche)
3 Petites pieces montees (a 4 mains): Jeux de Gargantua (Coin de Polka)
Peccadilles importunes: Etre jaloux de son camarade qui a une grosse tete
Peccadilles importunes: Lui manger sa tartine
Peccadilles importunes: Profiter de ce qu'il a des cors aux pieds pour lui voler son cerceau
Pieces froides - No. 1 Airs a faire fuir: I D'une maniere particuliere
Pieces froides - No. 1 Airs a faire fuir: II Modestement
Pieces froides - No. 1 Airs a faire fuir: III S'inviter
Pieces froides - No. 2 Danses de travers: I En y regardant par deux fois
Pieces froides - No. 2 Danses de travers: II Passer
Pieces froides - No. 2 Danses de travers: III Encore
La Belle Excentrique: I Grande ritournelle
La Belle Excentrique: II Marche franco-lunaire
La Belle Excentrique: III Valse du 'Mysterieux baiser dans l'oeil'
La Belle Excentrique: IV Can-can grand-mondain
3 Sarabandes: No. 1
3 Sarabandes: No. 2
3 Sarabandes: No. 3

Amazon.com

It's simple: in his various realizations of the piano music of Erik Satie, Aldo Ciccolini set a standard that has yet to be bettered. This compilation, drawn from recordings made between 1966 and 1971, is consequently the best of the best. Ciccolini always played Satie's music as though it had been written by Claude Debussy, not by some cheap charlatan or uneducated primitive (which, to an extent that is still debatable, Satie was). The result is that these seemingly simple piano pieces acquire a tonal allure that is as surprising as it is undeniable. They possess an understated sophistication that points directly toward Ravel and Poulenc, at the same time providing an opening to the minimalist aesthetic of the later 20th century. Ciccolini's playing is pliant and graceful, and under his fingers the music seems to breathe and come alive. What more could a composer or a listener want? --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Picasso in sound.......2006-02-19

Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau and Eric Satie were drinking buddies; it shouldn't be surprising that their work, though in different media, should bear striking similarities. This CD set replaces a very badly abused vinyl recording from the 1960s. No one plays Satie like Aldo Ciccolini. I do wish the Parade had been included, Satie wrote the music, Cocteau the libretto and Picasso did the sets and costumes-Satie's only ballet. Of course, the circa 1910 audience walked out. It's the story of an out-of-work ballet company that goes out onto the streets of Paris to try to get customers to come inside. The customers are stereotypes like the American in a cowboy outfit who adds the sound of this six gun to the music and the secretary who types through the encounter. The back wall of the theater was covered with Picasso designed neon signs flashing in bright colors throughout the performance. Across the front of the stage he'd strung acetate on which were playing street scenes of Paris from three cameras-red, blue and green. The men were way, way ahead of their times.

Great but NOT complete.......2004-12-23

Please note that this collection does NOT contain Erik Satie's complete works for piano. The collection makes no such claim, but at 5 CDs, some may assume it to be complete and none of the other reviews to date mention this. I am too lazy to do the research to come up with a complete list, but offhand I know that these songs are missing - "Je Te Veux", "Fantaisie-Valse" and "Valse-Ballet". These 3 are among my favorite Satie pieces, so yes, I think the collection is diminished somewhat by their absence.

Aldo Ciccolini always has been the greatest interpreter of Satie's work for piano. Ciccolini has a feel for Satie that no one else does, although I have to admit that I prefer a faster tempo to "Poudre D'Or" than the slower, introspective tempo Ciccolini always uses, but that's only a small matter of personal preference. These recordings were originally made in 1967 and 1971 and the sound quality is excellent. At the dawn of the CD era at various sessions from 1983-1986, Ciccolini recorded Satie's complete works for piano on EMI on 5 CDs. They are currently out of print in America, with the exception of one compilation CD (also available at Amazon at the time of writing) with Gabriel Tacchino playing the 2nd piano on the pieces for 2 pianos. Ciccolini was overdubbed playing the 2nd piano on the original recordings in this review. I have a slight preference for the later recordings, but many seem to prefer these originals. You can't go wrong with these, just understand that they are not complete and the missing songs are among Satie's best.

There's only one........2004-06-26

If you're reading this, you've already heard Satie's music, so I needn't to go into that. I do want to say that this is the only recording of Satie that is worth hearing. Ciccolini is the only foot that will fit the Satie glass slipper. Don't waste your money on the ugly step-sisters.

Don't forget Satie was an Anti-Romantic.......2002-02-25

No one could deny that setting every disperse music in a unique album is a remarkable job. But I didn't like much the approach of Ciccolini, which I knew around 1975 while getting borrowed the vinyl LPs in the Embassy of France in Buenos Aires. Now I'd like to explain to whom it may concern why do I feel that way.
Satie was an anti-romantic composer, at the point of creating the "furniture-music" (musique d'ameublement) which refuses that music could be so expressive as romantics wanted. Other ones clasifies him as a "Surrealist" composer (anti-romantic movement too), but there are no signs of dreams of unconsciousness through his work. Since that point of view you could play Satie's music anyway but expressively. Satie wasn't Debussy, besides the fact that they knew personally and admire each other. Could you play Debussy in a plain style without damage?. I don't think so, because Satie was farther of expressive tradition than Debussy: we can say that Debussy is a spirit of the XIX Century while Satie is a precursor of the XXth. Remember his own words: "I came to the world too young in a time too old".
The best performance I heard of the piano work of our composer was in charge of Jacques Fevrier on the excelent album called "Monsieur Erik Satie", with such a "sideman" as another member of the group of six as Georges Auric for the 4 hands pieces.
I wave goodbye with a great embrace to all Satie's fans.

"Electric Spirit of Eric Satie" fans this is the one !.......2001-08-17

Fans of "The Electronic Spirit of Eric Satie" will immediately recognize Aldo Ciccolini as one of the few musicians in touch with the true "Satie" style. The selections correspond to "Electric Spirit" ; except, performed as a good piano solo. The piano recording is done so well it's better than most orchestral versions. It sounds very much like "Electric Spirit" without orchestration nor electronic "boops" and "beeps"-- just a good piano. It's really just as funny and powerful; and here it has a class act. This performance is a rare find !

Satie: Gymnopédies No1-3; Gnossiennes No1-6

Average customer rating:

Great Performance, disappointing listening experience
Great Performance, not so great quality recording
Splendid Introduction to Satie's Piano Music

Satie: Gymnopédies No1-3; Gnossiennes No1-6

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Satie: Piano Works
After the Rain...The Soft Sounds of Erik Satie
The Best of Erik Satie
The Magic of Satie
Satie: Orchestral Works

ASIN: B00004R95Q
Release Date: 2000-03-14

Tracks:

Trois Gymnopedies: I. Lent Et Douloureux
Trois Gymnopedies: II. Lent Et Triste
Trois Gymnopedies: II. Lent Et Grave
I. Lent
Six Gnossiennes: II. Avec Etonnement
Six Gnossiennes: III. Lent
Six Gnossiennes: IV. Lent
Six Gnossiennes: V. Modere
Six Gnossiennes: VI. Avec Conviction Et Avec Une Tristesse Rigoureuse
Croquis Et Agaceries D'un Gros Bonhomme En Bois: I. Tyrolienne Turque (Avec Precaution Et Lent)
Croquis Et Agaceries D'un Gros Bonhomme En Bois: II. Danse Maigre (A La Maniere De Ces Messieurs) (Assez Lent Si Vous Le Voulez Bien)
Croquis Et Agaceries D'un Gros Bonhomme En Bois: III. Espanana (Sorte De Valse)
Embryons Desseches: I. - D'Holothurie (Allez Un Peu)
Embryons Desseches: II. - D'Edriophtalma (Sonore)
Embryons Desseches: III. - De Podophtalma (Un Peu Vif)
Sonatine Bureaucratique: Allegro - Andante - Vivace
Avant-dernieres Pensees: I. Idylle, (A Debussy) (Modere, Je Vous Prie)
Avant-dernieres Pensees: II. Aubade (A Paul Dukas) (Pa Vite)
Avant-dernieres Pensees: III. Meditations (A Albert Roussel) (Un Peu Vif)
Veritables Preludes Flasques (Pour Un Chien): I. Severe Reprimande (Vif [Sans Trop])
Veritables Preludes Flasques (Pour Un Chien): II. Seul A La Maison (Pas Vite)
Veritables Preludes Flasques (Pour Un Chien): III. On Joue (Aller)
Cinq Nocturnes: I. Doux Et Calme
Cinq Nocturnes: II. Simplement
Cinq Nocturnes: III. Un Peu Mouvemente
Cinq Nocturnes: IV. Mysterieux et tendre
Cinq Nocturnes: V.
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: I. Maniere De Commencement (Allez Moderement) - Gabriel Tacchino
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: II. Prolongation Du Meme (Au Pas) - Gabriel Tacchino
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: 1. Lentement - Gabriel Tacchino
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: 2. Enleve - Gabriel Tacchino
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: 3. Brutal - Gabriel Tacchino
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: III. En Plus (Calme) - Gabriel Tacchino
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: IV. Redite (Dans Le Lent) - Gabriel Tacchino
La Belle Excentrique: I. Grand Ritournelle - Gabriel Tacchino
La Belle Excentrique: II. Marche 'Franco-Lunaire' - Gabriel Tacchino
La Belle Excentrique: III. Valse Du 'Mysterieux Baiser Dans L'oeil' (Mouvement De Valse) - Gabriel Tacchino
La Belle Excentrique: IV. Cancan Grand-Mondain (Galop) - Gabriel Tacchino

Amazon.com

Aldo Ciccolini's late-1960s survey devoted to Erik Satie's piano music helped spawn new interest in the idiosyncratic French composer. The pianist rerecorded the cycle digitally, and it is from these remakes that the present reissue stems. While the performances are refreshingly pert, stylish, and perceptive, the rather glassy, treble-heavy engineering can't hold a candle to EMI's warmer analog sound for the earlier recordings. Be that as it may, this disc covers a spectrum of Satie's creative moods (to say nothing of his bizarre titles), from the pensive Gymnopédies, Gnossiennes, and Nocturnes to the upbeat irony inherent in the character pieces. Gabriel Tacchino joins Ciccolini for a balletic romp through La belle excentrique. Happily, this duo will have none of the fussy rubato with which a handful of world-class pianists distort Trois Morceaux en forme de poire. If warm, rounded piano sound is not an issue, then this disc will do just fine as your basic Satie starter kit. --Jed Distler

Customer Reviews:

Great Performance, disappointing listening experience.......2007-05-06

The performance of all of the pieces on this disk are exceptional, and the recording of the piano itself is well done. Unfortunately, both are almost irreparably marred by a loud recording hiss throughout the performances. The fact that this hiss fades to zero between sets only serves to highlight the hiss and make it distracting again. I am stunned that this disk advertises itself as a DDD recording, the engineers and producers should be ashamed. If you know how to process hiss out of a recording, go for it. Otherwise, be warned, you may be disappointed.

Great Performance, not so great quality recording.......2006-01-19

I think that the interpretation of Satie's work here is really good, but my complain is that the recording has a lot of noise in it, is not just the noise of a life performance (which I don't mind), but there is a clear white noise in the background that spoils the overall effect. Still, as I said the interpretation is just great, but the noise issue forces me to give a 3 start rating.

Splendid Introduction to Satie's Piano Music.......2004-05-29

I must confess my ignorance with respect to Satie and his music, so this fine CD was a revelation. Satie clearly falls in the same group of "Impressionist" composers such as Debussy, but still remains an enigmatic figure, in part because of the satirical content of his music, as well as his personality. In Aldo Ciccolini, Satie had one of his foremost champions. This CD is replete with graceful, lyrical playing of Satie's works. I am truly surprised that Satie was neglected until the 1960's, when Ciccolini began championing his music. The sound quality isn't nearly as warm as earlier EMI analogue recordings, but this isn't a major disappointment in what is otherwise a splendid introduction to Satie's music.

Average customer rating:

Excellent
This is not industrial.
VNV Nation's weakest album
Matter + Form
Great CD

Matter + Form
VNV Nation
Manufacturer: Metropolis Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Praise the Fallen
Dark Angel
Gelb
Honour 2003
Subkutan

ASIN: B0007X9TTI
Release Date: 2005-04-12

Tracks:

Intro
Chrome
Arena
Colours Of Rain
Strata
Interceptor
Entropy
Endless Skies
Homeward
Lightwave
Perpetual

Album Description

Shaking off the conventions and cliches of the EBM and futurepop genres, VNV Nation have crafted a work of art. From haunting, quiet beauty to introspective depths, to dance floor anthems, "Matter + Form" is an album crafted to move not only bodies on the dance floor, but hearts as well. VNV Nation is the new face of electronic music.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent.......2007-05-30

This VNV Nation album is awesome, but all of their albums are awesome too. The music and the lyrics are great in Form + Matter and I highly recommend it.

This is not industrial........2007-05-28

This is a synthpop music. If you're looking for the hard-edged sound in Praise the Fallen, or Empires, try Front Line Assembly or Infected Mushroom. This album (much like Futureperfect) is mostly pop music. It is an entirely different style for VNV Nation, but it's one of the best damn synthpop albums I've heard. I really like all the song, except for one: Entropy. Even the lyrics, which VNV usually excells with, are bland in this song. Listen to the samples first, and if it's the kind of thing you're into, get it. Don't give it bad credit because it's not as dark or industrial as their earlier works.

VNV Nation's weakest album.......2007-05-14

Much as I love VNV Nation's other albums, this one just flopped. Although Chrome was fantastic, and Arena and Perpetual were good, the rest of the album sounds like the soundtrack to a coma/seisure depending on the track. It pales in comparison to the brilliance of Judgement or Empires.

Matter + Form.......2007-02-19

This album is a lot more musical than their previous ones. The music is smooth, instead of the grating electronic beats found on the earliest albums. Harris relies more on his voice then in several past albums, such as Empires and Praise the Fallen. This is probably most evident in Chrome, which was also released as a single. There are also a few instrumental songs, including Colours of Rain, Strata, Interceptor, and Lightwave. The last three have some pretty decent techno beats.

I liked all of the songs except for Colours of Rain and Endless Skies. They were too slow for my tastes, but it's very possible that many people will like these songs.

It's hard to compare this album to earlier ones, since the style changes (which isn't necessarily a bad thing). But I do think the new style caters better to generic techno lovers. That said, VNV Nation is electronica, and there's a significant difference between it and your basic techno/dance music.

I give product 4 stars. It's not the best techno music ever (kind of dull compared to some groups, definitely not the "dance" genre), but it's a pretty solid album. If you like VNV Nation mainly because of their earlier sound, this album may not suit you. But in general, all techno lovers should find this to be a pretty decent CD.

Great CD.......2007-01-10

Every song on this CD is great. I originally purchased it just because I liked a couple of songs, but quickly realized the entire CD was full of great music.

Average customer rating:

Baby caught us flirtiing....
Good if you're in the mood...
Brilliant
His future looks bright, but the present can be dull.

The Return to Form Black Magick Party
Pop Levi
Manufacturer: Counter Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Sound of Silver
The Good, the Bad & the Queen
We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank
Blue Honey
Myth Takes

ASIN: B000MM0L2I
Release Date: 2007-02-20

Tracks:

Sugar Assault Me Now
Blue Honey
(A Style Called) Crying Chic
Pick-Me-Up Uppercut
Skip Ghetto
Dollar Bill Rock
Flirting
Mournin' Light
See My Lord
Hades' Lady
From The Day That You Were Born

Album Description

Pop Levi completely explodes the already-tired consensus of rock music, with equal parts psychedelia and glam, as he carries you on a wave of jagged guitar riffs, rumbling drums, fuzzed up bass and his unique vocals. Call it astral projection if you like, but Pop Levi is going to be a star.

Customer Reviews:

Baby caught us flirtiing...........2007-06-14

Pop Levi is an amazing artist and absolutely incredible live. If you listen to nothing else, do yourself a favor and listen to the songs 'Flirting' and 'Sugar Assault Me'. Then after you are properly infatuated, by the cd.

Good if you're in the mood..........2007-05-22

Pop Levi has me betwixt and between. Some days I love this album. On others, I can't stand it.

This is at times almost bubblegum pop, done very well. There are elements of T-Rex, but also hints of techno. The tracks vary widely in sound and feel, and there does seem to be plenty of evidence to suggest Pop Levi is very inventive. From experience, this is a good party record. If you're in the mood for melody, harmony and meaningful lyrics though, go elsewhere.

Brilliant.......2007-03-14

Amidst so much tired and rehashed "music" filling current CD shelves, it's refreshing to hear something different. Not only that -- you'll get something different out of this album every time you listen to it.

Unlike the "spotlight" reviewer, I appreciate the variety and suprises. The cohesive factor throughout is coolness.

His future looks bright, but the present can be dull........2007-02-28

There's always one that you just don't understand. An album that receives near-unanimous praise, but you can't really understand where it's all coming from. Pop Levi has been around for a while, making brief appearances with several other artists, the most notable of which is probably Ladytron. "The Return to Form Black Magick Party," however, is the artist's first solo album and first opportunity to gain fans of his own. He tries, but oftentimes the album feels more like he's trying too hard to impress. Sometimes it works, sometimes it's just utterly confusing. One thing's for sure, in the 40 plus minutes of Pop Levi's debut there's probably something for everyone, just not enough of it.

The album actually starts off on a high note with the driving distortion and piercing vocals of "Sugar Assault Me Now." Despite a few deliberately missed notes, the song is energetic, fun, and admittedly pretty catchy. Here, as he does throughout the album, Levi stacks layers upon layers of vocals and guitars to make the songs sound fuller and more complete. It works quite well. This great song is followed by the album's first single and arguably strongest song, "Blue Honey." The song is plagued by a repetitive bass line, but is saved by the artist's vocal performance in the chorus ("It's the way you squeeze me, baby"). It sounds like the better moments of classic rock, often stepping into Led Zepplin territory, without fully sounding like a rip-off.

"(A Style Called) Cryin' Chic" has a steady groove to it, but not much else to offer. The lyrics here are repetitive to the point of being annoying. Essentially, Levi takes one line, repeats it four times, and then does the same thing with about a dozen other lines. The actual 2-bar guitar riff doesn't ever change throughout the song, which just adds to the repetitiveness of it. "Pick Me Up Uppercut" is probably my favorite song on the album, despite it being the most obnoxious song since Aqua's "Barbie Girl." It has a very unique appeal to it, and sounds like a mix between glam rock and The Go-Gos.

The album goes off the deep-end from here, never really recapturing the energy or appeal that it began with. "Dollar Bill Rock" is a futile attempt at classic rock n roll, though one could definitely assume that it would be a better song live than it is here. "Flirting" lends the help of a xylophone to give it a more friendly feel, but like so many other songs on the album, it suffers from being incredibly repetitive. To be honest, "From the Day That You Were Born" is the album's only real notable track throughout it's second half. Levi plays acoustic guitar and sings, but not much else is happening. On an album that is full of layers and layers of vocals, guitars, and other noise, the song serves as a peaceful and welcomed break. It ends the album on a positive note, which is always appreciated.

If "The Return to Form Black Magick Party" is the best that Pop Levi has to offer, his career will either be short-lived or elongated on a wave of hype. Fortunately for the artist, however, the album seems to really be the tip of the iceberg for Levi. Though it's really hit or miss, it's high points are good enough to get even the most skeptical listener excited for what this artist has yet to do. That's enough of a reason to give it a listen in my book. Pop Levi is a name you might want to remember, even if this album isn't your thing.

Recommended for fans of classic rock and anyone who wants to hear what the future of indie rock could very well sound like.

Key Tracks:
1. "Sugar Assault Me Now"
2. "Blue Honey"
3. "Pick Me Up Uppercut"
4. "From the Day That You Were Born"

5 out of 10 Stars

Average customer rating:

cool...
Not good.
Their early stuff. Not that good.
awesome
???????????????????????????????????????????

Buddha
blink-182
Manufacturer: Kung Fu Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Punk Revival | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Punk-Pop | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Post Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music

Rock | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music

General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Cheshire Cat
Dude Ranch
Take off Your Pants and Jacket
Enema Of The State
Blink 182

ASIN: B000005BOC
Release Date: 1998-10-27

Tracks:

Carousel
T.V.
Strings
Fentoozler
Time
Romeo & Rebecca
21 Days
Sometimes
Point Of View
My Pet Sally
Reebok Commercial
Toast & Bananas
The Girl Next Door
Don't

Album Description

Digitally remixed & remastered reissue of their 1993 debut, previously only available on cassette. Some of these tracks were re-recorded for their albums 'Cheshire Cat' & 'Dude Ranch', and some have never been released at all, including a cover of Screeching Weasel's 'The Girl Next Door'. 14 tracks on this 1998 Kung Fu Records release.

Customer Reviews:

cool..........2007-03-05

this cd really makes me think that we are lucky that we have the instroments we have now.cuze on this cd you can tell the difference.i love blink-182 new and old!if you like blink-182 then i recomend angels & airwaves and plusfourtyfour.best of luck to them.blink-182...R.I.P. :(

Not good........2007-03-04

The swear words aren't the bad part. Its the music and especially the vocals. Blink 182 was a new punk band though. They just had no experience. Well, look at 'em now! Awesome! Why did they have to break up? I reccommend any Green Day, Weezer, BoDeans, and any other blink except maybe ":cheshire cat" and "Flyswatter"

Their early stuff. Not that good........2006-12-29

Blink 182 is by all means a great band, but their early work such as Buddha, isn't that great. It seems more like random themed songs without any passion than the hard rocking tunes they have made in albums like Enema of the State.

awesome.......2006-12-18

Before I get into the review, I've got something to say. To the second guy below me: This was made before cheshire cat and after flyswatter. Flyswatter and Buddha are two completely different things. Flyswatter had 8 songs, and was recorded on a tape deck. Then there were other demos and promos made between the two that not too many people can explain.

Now, to the review:

Is it the sex pistols? no. ramones? no. dead kennedys? no. But is it punk: Yes. Ever heard of the descendents? They rocked, and were possibly one of the most influential punk bands ever. If I had to compare this album to someone, it would be the descendents. While this album may, at some points, seem to venture into pop-punk, it's some of the best pop-punk yet.

Sure, the recording quality sucks, but that just adds to the awesome feel of this album. The band occassionaly messes up vocally and instrumentally, which makes the album feel very natural. Plus, blink had their own identity at this point, so they weren't exactly like every punk band out there. The songs move along at an awesome pace, with very little space between each track.

However, the album could have been a bit more agressive. It seemed like their singing was kinda held back at some points. Some songs could've gone faster, too. But, all in all, it's a good punk album.

???????????????????????????????????????????.......2006-06-24

This is HORRIBLE!!!
all their doing is talking and yelling to horrible music. I can't beleive my son likes this!Plus it curses!!!
How did I know it cursed? They should tell us these things!!!
Just like "Dookie" By Green Day!!!!!

Average customer rating:

Different, but not disappointing. The band matures AND rocks
Some serious rockin music
KEY!
almost as good as suicide (suicide not being very good)
UNDERRATED

Risen
O.A.R.
Manufacturer: Everfine
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Jangle Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Stories of a Stranger
In Between Now and Then
In Between Now & Then (CD & DVD)
Bang Bang
Silent Steeples

ASIN: B0000589T0
Release Date: 2001-02-06

Tracks:

Hey Girl
Delicate Few
Hold On True
If Only She Knew
Untitled
She Gone (Only In Dreams)
King Of The Thing
Night Shift
About Mr. Brown
Someone In The Road
Here's To You

Customer Reviews:

Different, but not disappointing. The band matures AND rocks.......2004-02-13

Of A Revolution developed a big cult following on college campuses with their awesome first two CDs, The Wanderer and Souls Aflame. Risen contains some songs updated songs from those albums, but it can also stand on its own as a great bunch of music. The band really grows up here on this CD with much more diverse, melodic songs. Marc in particular takes his songwriting and singing up to another level, but nooone is carried by the others. Delicate Few, If Only She Knew, the new version of Hey Girl, She Gone are all incredible, and the disc is incredibly consistent in this age of singles/filler albums. Forget the DMB comparisons, Risen proves once and for all that Of A Revolution can stand on their own as a great band. Their albums are incredible and their live shows are comparable to anyone's, so get this album today to join in on the fun!

Some serious rockin music.......2004-01-22

This cd is totally awesome........the music is upbeat and catchy. I saw them live a couple of months ago and now i'm totally hooked. I love this cd and from what I've heard their live cd is totally awesome too.

KEY!.......2003-12-01

Shh-Hoops the middle man...After listening to this CD, I completely melted into a mentally unbalanced pool of sweet feelings and rare emotions. The music created an inner sense never before experienced. The psynchopated rhythms published a luscious emission of unique flavor and vibrant sound. As I touch the collection of good vibrations, I can't help but feel absolute contentment. O.A.R. provides a liberality and a benevolence that you can't find in today's deranged music. As I sleep at night I feel an incredible anxiety to awake the next morning and joyfully depress the play button on my prosperous compact disc player. The combination of tone and rhythm is absolutely EPIC. I instantaneously recommend this beautiful euphony to any person living within or outside of a municipality. The minstrelsy is absolutely saucaceous and it is incredibly KEY to the unlocking of freedom. KEY KEY KEY!!!

almost as good as suicide (suicide not being very good).......2003-09-23

Look, regardless of the negative sterotypes they may undergo, I like the so-called 'jam bands'. I love the Dead, and if you don't you're a fool. I'm a fan of String Cheese, Panic, and to a lesser extent Phish. They are all wonderful and they always surpass what is expected from them.

Now, there are alot of people out there who like to flatter themselves.

Idiots in a dorm who find out it's 'trendy' to start these kinds of bands respectively do so.

Enter OAR.
OAR is a terrible band. Very trite lyrics and though I can't say they are untalented, it isn't really true talent if all you do is rip off other artist. Basically this is what happens when people who never experimented with the right drugs try to start bands. OAR jams about as well as Phil Lesh with a broken wrist and is about as original as an Elvis impersonater.

I can imagine walking up to these guys and talking about how I love listening to BOB. To which they would reply , "Dude! BOB Marley rules!" To which I would replay, "You idiot, I was talking about Bob Dylan." Take a note you trust-fund hippies!!!

UNDERRATED.......2003-08-17

I first heard of OAR from my cousin. OAR is one of the most underrated bands. Their music is already better than most of the music we hear on the radio today, and these guys are just getting started. I suggest that u buy this cd and their older ones. OAR is going to be the next Dave Matthews Band one day, and i will guarantee that. Marc's lyrics are so pure and positive, and listening to this band puts you in such a good, positive mood. Support OAR and buy this cd. Its their best yet and you wont regret it.

Average customer rating:

Stories Of Schumann And Grieg

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Story Of Chopin In Words And Music
The Story Of Brahms
The Story of Schubert
Mendelssohn In Words And Music
The Story of Tchaikovsky

ASIN: B000001KCV
Release Date: 1995-04-16

Tracks:

Symphony No. 3 In E-flat Major, Op. 97: 'Rhenish' - Lebhaft
Andante And Variations In B-Flat Major
Symphonic Etudes, Op. 13
Toccata In C Major, Op. 7
Kreisleriana, Op. 16
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 54: Allegro Vivace
Carnaval, Op. 9
'Dedication', Op. 25/1
Symphony No. 4 in D Minor, Op. 120: Introduction - Vivace
Papilons, Op. 2
Op. 25-3: 'The Nut Tree'
Symphony No. 3 In E-flat Major, Op. 97: 'Rhenish' - Lebhaft-Schneller
Piano Quintet In E-flat Major, Op. 44: Allegro ma non troppo
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 54: Allegro affettuoso
Carnaval, Op. 9: Waltz
Album For The Young, Op. 68: The Merry Farmer
Scenes From Childhood, Op. 15: Dreams
Cello Concerto In A Minor, Op. 129: Nicht au schnell
Symphony No. 3 In E-flat Major, Op. 97: 'Rhenish' - Feierlich
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46, No 1
Lyric Suite, Op. 54-2: Norwegian Rustic Dance
Op. 12 No. 4: Elf Dance
Op. 35, No. 1: Norwegian Dances
Elegiac Melodies
Op. 64, No. 4: Symphonic Dances
Op. 35, No. 2: Norwegian Dances
Op. 5-3: 'I Love Thee'
Op. 43, No. 1: Butterfly
Op. 65, No. 6: Wedding Day At Troldhaugen
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46, No. 3: Anitra's Dance
Peer Gynt Suite No. 2, Op. 55, No. 4: Solveig's Song
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46, No. 4: In The Hall Of The Mountain King
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 16: Allegro moderato; Allegro marcato
Holberg Suite, Op. 40: Prelude: Allegro vivace
Lyric Suite, Op. 54, No. 3: Dance Of The Dwarfs
Homage To Chopin
Sigurd Jorsalfar Suite, Op. 56, No. 3: Homage March
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46: Morning Mood
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46: The Death Of Aase
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46: Anitra's Dance
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46: In The Hall Of The Mountain King
Peer Gynt Suite No. 2, Op. 55: III The Return Of Peer Gynt
Peer Gynt Suite No. 2, Op. 55: IV Solveig's Song

Average customer rating:

Grieg: Complete Solo Piano Music

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Improvisation | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Brahms: Complete Piano Music
Ravel: Complete Works for Solo Piano
Fauré: Piano Music complete [Box Set]
Tchaikovsky: Complete Solo Piano Music, Vol. 1
Rachmaninov: His Complete Recordings

ASIN: B0001M4DK0
Release Date: 2004-11-09

Ambient Egypt, Sounds from Ancient Sources

Average customer rating:

Soothing Sounds
Ancient music for a modern audience
Bringing to life Ancient Egyptian music
Unbelievable tranquility
He loved it!

Ambient Egypt, Sounds from Ancient Sources
Douglas Irvine
Manufacturer: William Sound
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | International | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Ancient Egypt
Meditation Music of Ancient Egypt
Immortal Egypt
Ankh: The Sound of Ancient Egypt
Pharaoh: Sound of Mystery

ASIN: B000059MZK
Release Date: 1998-10-28

Tracks:

Nenchefka's Orchestra
Road to Wadi el Hol
Ambient Winds
Procession at Thebes
The Banquet
Lotus on the Nile
Bes
Sunboat Drifting

Album Description

Inspired by the ancient Egyptian musical world, Ambient Egypt explores the rich, timeworn sounds of surviving and reconstructed musical instruments. Over 70 minutes of music weave traditional and contemporary elements, evoking the sense of mystery that surrounds ancient Egyptian civilization.

This 2005 re-release features all original 1998 compositions remastered plus the bonus track to an Irvine's up-comming CD.

Total running time: 72.02

Customer Reviews:

Soothing Sounds.......2007-01-10

Purchased this CD to help my 6th grader with an Ancient Egypt social studies presentation. She played this CD in the background and it played well. Good for background music, soothing and melodic.

Ancient music for a modern audience.......2006-02-28

I second all the rave reviews featured above. However, I should add for the record: this CD is sometimes labelled (as mine is) as "IMMORTAL SOUNDS: A Musical Journey Through Ancient Egypt", published through Antenna Audio, Inc., CA. I found the recording at the New Orleans Museum of Art when a large travelling exhibit of Egypitan art and artifacts was on display. The music served as the background for the audio guide (under narration by Jeremy Irons) and was sold in the gift shop with the tour's other goods. I was trying to find info on the CD, and when I couldn't find it under that name, I got redirected to this entry. I thought I'd just clarify! :o)

But yes, indeed - beautiful, serene, and indeed ethereal music!

Bringing to life Ancient Egyptian music.......2003-02-13

Hello,

Ambient Egypt brings ancient Egyptian music to life.
I would rate this CD as highly as these other ancient Egyptian music reconstructions, Michael Atherton`s Ankh and Ali Jihad Racy`s Ancient Egypt. In my opinion the strengths of this CD are the use of authentic reconstructed instruments which have as Irvine states: "the potential to create new music".

Unbelievable tranquility.......2002-12-09

A masterpiece in instrumental music replicated from Ancient Eqypt.

He loved it!.......2002-08-12

I bought this as a gift for my partner who is big into "ancient Egypt" and the like -- far more as a layperson than as a scholar. He said the music was very relaxing and inspiring for his artistic endeavors though it also helped him get to sleep when he was already tired. The idea to try and recreate the music based on surviving instruments is a great one and avoids some of the serious errors of early archaeologists and scholars who attempted to use the actual instruments. I can't say that it is "accurate" in terms of representing a historical reality, but is a fair job of making music that can help a modern person relate to ancient Egypt. I'd probably use it as a intro to a basic history class on this period.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review