Rocking Music [CD-single] [Import]

Rocking Music [CD-single] [Import]

Track Listings

1. Rocking Music (Original Mix)

2. Rocking Music (Warren Clarke Remix)

3. Rocking Music (Warren Clarke Dub)

4. Rocking Music (Joey Negro Club Edit)

5. Rocking Music (Joey Negro Dub)

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Taken from the 2004 album 'Sur La Terre'. The title track is b/w four non-LP tracks, 'Rocking Music' (Warren Clarke Remix, Warren Clarke Dub, Joey Negro Club Edit, & Joey Negro Dub). 'Rocking Music' is destined to power parties in 2004, with vocal influen

Tracks:

(Just Like) Starting Over
Imagine
Watching The Wheels
Jealous Guy
Instant Karma!
Stand By Me
Working Class Hero
Power To The People
Oh My Love
Oh Yoko
Nobody Loves You When You're Down And Out
Nobody Told Me
Bless You
Come Together (Live)
New York City
I'm Stepping Out
You Are Here
Borrowed Time
Happy Xmas (War Is Over)

Tracks:

Woman
Mind Games
Out Of The Blue
Whatever Gets You Thru The Night
Love
Mother
Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy)
Woman Is The Nigger Of The World
God
Scared
#9 Dream
I'm Losing You (Anthology Version)
Isolation
Cold Turkey
Intuition
Gimme Some Truth
Give Peace A Chance
Real Love
Grow Old With Me

Amazon.com

On October 9, 2005, John Lennon would have turned 65, if only...

Instead, the former Beatles leader and endlessly complex rock icon remains forever frozen in time, basking in the warm reception of his 1980 return to recording after a long, self-imposed exile from the music business. But this two-disc, 38-track collection does more than merely commemorate the landmark birthday Lennon tragically never celebrated; it's arguably the best compact overview of his often conflicted post-Fabs career. Considering he spent fully half the decade chronicled here in semi-retirement, it's a remarkably robust and diverse body of work, whether focused on sloganeering agit-prop ("Power to the People," "Woman is the Nigger of the World," "Give Peace a Chance," "Working Class Hero"), semi-autobiographical musings that ranged from the harrowing ("Cold Turkey," "Mother") to the unabashedly sentimental ("Oh Yoko!," "Watching the Wheels," "Starting Over"). "Imagine" and "Happy Xmas (War is Over)" may showcase one of the era's most wide-eyed idealists, but the range of emotions cataloged in much of his other work argue that John Lennon was a bundle of emotional and philosophical complexities. As Yoko One once noted, "People have wanted to box him in..But he was a very human, three-dimensional person... Sometimes he was angry, sometimes he was sad, sometimes he was very vulnerable and sweet. All of that was going on in every period of his life." This set never sidesteps those complications; indeed, the songs collected here thrive on them. --Jerry McCulley

Amazon.com

John Lennon Photos

More from John Lennon

Imagine
Lennon Legend
The U.S. vs. John Lennon

Mind Games
Working Class Hero
John Lennon Anthology

Customer Reviews:

Working Class Hero: The Definitive Lennon.......2007-01-20

This was given as a gift...they are tremendously enjoying this CD!

finally the singles package awaited arrives.......2007-01-19

After the break-up, both McCartney and Lennon went on to do what everyone had more or less predicted: McCartney racked up the sales with catchy pop that often spent a bit too much time in the shallow end of the pool, while Lennon achieved lesser (but still quite acceptable) sales and greater expressivity. That said, arguably Lennon had but two truly fabulous LPs in his catalogue post-Fab Four: 1971's Imagine, and one of the most direct, and brutally honest, artistic statements ever fashioned by any rock and roller, Plastic Ono Band from 1970.

This is the fourth major career overview for Lennon, after Shaved Fish, the John Lennon Collection, and the embarrassingly named Legend, a title which Lennon himself would have undoubtedly forbade. With thirty-eight tracks on two discs, it surpasses the latter two in comprehensiveness, and benefits from better remastering detail to any of the earlier sets.

George Harrison has stated that he thought Lennon's writing went a bit off in his later years. His melodic sense resurfaced by the Double Fantasy sessions, perhaps recharged by his five-year hiatus from recording. Given the lackluster songs populating much of his album output from 1972 to 1975, however, Harrison's assessment is quite apt. If Lennon's struggles to compose enough good material to fill up an entire record made his post-Imagine albums rather spotty, his singles certainly were not. Having grown up and worked with the Beatles during a time when the single ruled rock and roll, like his colleagues Lennon always paid special attention to their quality. Working Class Hero collects every non-Beatles 45 that Lennon issued in his lifetime for the first time since the 1970s singles compilation Shaved Fish. Including five of the six posthumous singles (not counting reissues), this is welcome indeed.

"Greatest Hits" packages often get short shrift from some quarters. In what was for a long time one of the main alternatives to [...] for on-line pop music album review sites, Wilson & Alroy refuse to even consider reviewing compilations, greatest hits or otherwise. Trapped in an album-oriented classic rock mentality, this only displays the depth of their ignorance regarding the history of the music about which they issue authoritative pronouncements. Many greatest hits comps might indeed be superfluous, but singles packages are another story altogether. Some of the greatest work by many artists, such as those affiliated with the Motown or Stax labels in the 1960s for instance, came in the form of singles. You'd be far better off with a good Supremes hits collection than any one of their albums issued during the group's operational life.

Similarly, Lennon's singles are the best items in his solo catalogue, Plastic Ono Band and Imagine aside. This package includes them generously, making up about half of the total number of tracks. For instance, it's good to see "Woman Is the Nigger of the World" return to an official Lennon comp, a jarringly effective feminist anthem of which the title alone probably gives most people hives, which is precisely the point. Lennon wasn't driven solely by a need to make his audience comfortable, the desire to make a statement politically or socially often a main source of his vitality as an artist.

Interestingly, the Wingspan compilation by his ex-partner from five years earlier, also a double-disc overview with an equivalent number of tracks, covers roughly the same period of time. They make an intriguing comparison of the duo's accomplishments from the 1970s while both were still very much in the commercial spotlight. Whether this set is an answer to that one is known only to EMI, Yoko, and the Apple front office.

Of the flaws in Working Class Hero, one is presented in contrast to Wingspan. It would have been better had the producers echoed the format from the McCartney comp, placing the hit singles on one disc, and the assembled album cuts and lesser hits on the second. Also, some non-singles cuts were poorly selected: while still a good balladeer, Lennon's solo strengths were often in other areas. We don't necessarily need "Love", and "Oh My Love," *and* "Oh Yoko!" here, as all are from the two must-have albums. Better cuts from the Lennon Anthology, such as the superior "I'm Losing You" backed up by Cheap Trick that *is* included, the non-album b-side "Move Over Ms. L," and excerpts from the live material with Frank Zappa no longer available on the Some Time in New York City reissue would have been preferable to "Intuition," "Out the Blue," and "You Are Here."

These minor caveats aside, this is the best career retrospective for one of the best rock and roll artists of any era. The assembly of all those great Lennon singles is easily worth the purchase price. Thank you, John.

Enjoy what we were given.......2006-09-28

My mom was a big Beatles fan so I am familiar to a degree with his music and the distinctive sound of his voice. I think this album sounds very good and I like the choice of songs. You enjoy John or you don't for one reason or another. I like his sound and listen to it and that's very satisfying for me. Always enjoy what we were given and what remains.

The Lennon Anthology That Says It All.......2006-09-02

John Lennon was the first musician in modern times to have a keen understanding of his own iconic status and he used it to build an international political community for world peace. Even those who have political differences will Lennon, agree that his intellect, political savvy had tremendous impact on an entire generation of young people. Lennon told us that the movement we need for international peace was on our shoulders and came up with the audacious idea that war is over, if we want it.

Even in hindsight, I don't even think most of us who lived through Beatles era completely appreciate the impact that John Lennon had on their own lives. Richard Nixon understood Lennon's impact on the peace movement. Nixon lived in fear of Lennon and fought a long battle in court to have him deported as an undesirable alien.

After the breakup of the Beatles, Paul, and Ringo retreated into the cocoon of domestic bliss and the bland irrelevance of by-the-numbers rock stardom. George became a devotee of Krishna Consciousness and had a fleeting moment of social consciousness when he put together two benefit concerts for the refugees of war torn Bangladesh in 1971.

John was the keeper of the flame and the unapologetic activist, and despite all of his personal flaws John was indeed the "brilliant Beatle."

The two CD, 38 song anthology, "Working Class Hero" demonstrates how profoundly relevant Lennon's music remains to our own lives in 2006, three decades after his death.

John was the visionary and the dreamer, even as he told us that "the dream was over." John's music embraced existential ambiguity and contradiction. Lennon's exploration of the human condition was uncharted territory for a pop musician to explore the "boggie down" climate of the American music business in the early Seventies. Not even Dylan was writting songs that were as emotionally resonant and flat-out honest as John's "Mother", "Imagine", or "God."

No other musician has significantly changed the lives of those who heard his message, as John Lennon has. John's message was simple: no matter how long you live, or how dire the world appears to be, never give up on your dreams. To his critics who called him naieve John said, "You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one." John was right. Without our dreams we might as well be dead.

"Working Class Hero" is sole anthology of Lennon's work that defines Lennon the artist, the man, the philosopher and charismatic leader of a movement for world peace. Lennon's magnificent story is embedded in the content of the 38 songs in "Working Class Hero."

Pay no attention to the naysayers who have various hairs-splitting complaints about "Working Class Hero." One reviewer complains the album has been "remixed" but it's a specious claim because the pristine digital sound quality is actually far better than the early 1970s state of the art studio mixes. The biggest improvements are on the Phil Specter produced tracks in which Mr. Specter, for the first time in his career, seemed oddly disengaged from the artist he was producing.

As far selection of the 38 songs that comprise this anthology, they couldn't be better. If there was an important song from Lennon's legacy left out of this collection, nobody has pointed it out to me. These are the exact songs I would select if I were burning my own CD of John Lennon's songs. All previous Lennon collections have significant omissions of some of John's best songs. This anthology does justice to the complete trajectory of John Lennon's solo career from "Live Peace in Toronto 1969" to "Live in New York City" his posthumous live release in 1986. There isn't a single song that is filler here.

The presentation of the songs isn't in any rigid chronological order but there is a pattern of presenting the songs in reverse chronology. It benins with "Starting Over" in a journey backwards in time end up with John's earliest Plastic Ono Band recordings, like "Cold Turkey" and "Give Peace a Chance". The reason why some songs are presented out of order is, perhaps, an effort to equitably distribute Lennon's best music over the run length of both CDs.

If you are a causal fan of John Lennon's the only other way you'll get a more complete profile of John's career is to purchase the 4 CD box set "Anthology" (1998) which is grossly overpriced at $67.49. "Anthology" is more complete but not better than "Working Class Hero", because "Anthology degrades the quality of selections by including outtakes, alternative takes, studio chatter, home recording sessions and rarities that weren't good enough to be included in any of John's catalog of releases.

By contrast, "Working Class Hero" is Lennon's top-shelf material and you don't have to suffer through the 2 hours of filler cuts to harvest the bounty of these essential 38 songs that defined Lennon as an artist. The price of "Working Class Hero" is $22.99, which is a steal by comparison

Exclamation Point!.......2006-07-25

As I listened to this set the first time, I was struck by the clarity and quality of the remixes. Every track sounds better than ever! Next - the selection and sequence began to remind me of Paul McCartney's "Wingspan" (will the parallels between these two men ever end?). Even though Yoko was responsible for this, you had a sense of it being a near mirror-image of Paul's effort. One big similarity stands out: the self-indulgence of some of the deep-cut selections. As Paul includes a lot of his cutesy album cuts ("Bip-bop", "Waterfalls", "Tomorrow", "Backseat of my Car",) that only he would like, so Yoko selects the most gag-me Yoko this, Yoko that cuts. "You Are Here", and "Oh Yoko" for instance, could have given way to "How Do You Sleep", "Crippled Inside", "Old Dirt Road", "Remember", and "You Can't Catch Me". But really, I'm not complaining - I'm pretty sure John would have wanted the Yoko cuts in there. As a fan of both John and Paul, I have to say that hearing their selections does tell us a little more about them (in this case Yoko), and either way. I enjoy it.

But CD2 . . . oh baby! First we get this delicious alternate cut of "I'm Losing You". That alone makes this "yet another" greatest hots package worth it. But as I progressed further down the track list on CD2, I wondered what I was going to get when "Real Love" played (I do not have the John Lennon Anthology). Would it be the home-made scratch demo of the Imagine soundtrack? NO - it was the final arrangement of the song, a wonderful, beautiful rendition featuring John and the piano. I was thrilled to hear that the Beatles Anothology version was not the Threetles spinning of John's concept. All they did was layer instruments and background vocals onto a completed product. What a thrill to learn that the introduction and breaks are all John. John writes beautiful melodies with massive hooks, without Paul - and sometimes it is so good that even Paul will not mess with it!

But that's not all . . .

Again, with "Grow Old With Me", I wondered what I would be getting. The version that I know already, is the scratch demo from Milk and Honey, a syrupy, almost affected sappy thing that I thought John wrote to show how timeless and classic his love for Yoko was (more John and Yoko blah blah blah). I could picture John quickly writing it at the Dakota some afternoon, in between folding laundry and watching soaps.

But wait! Produced by George Martin? I dared to hope that it would sound good! And indeed - like "Good Night" on the White Album, this is definitely a Beatles-era George Martin production. And what a way to end this mega-set!

Did I sense some ice thawing? A George Martin production on a John Lennon album? A first-time (almost) release of essentially a Beatles song, on a Lennon album? Folks, this arrangement is so beautiful musically, that when you realize that Yoko is tipping her hat to the Beatles and Martin, with the closing song of this set, it almost seems like a missing track from the Anthology. And it shows what can happen to a John Lennon composition when someone other than himself or Phil Spector gets a ahold of it!

Grow Old With Me is like a little Beatles reunion, in a sense. I just love the way it closes out this anthology!

These three tracks gave me my money's worth.

And now - I am wondering how many other Beatles or near-Beatles songs are STILL hidden away down in some vault?

Average customer rating:

An underrated musical
Wonderful Lesser Known Gem
Keep Working!!!
a good, if obscure CD
off the beaten path

Working (Original 1978 Broadway Cast)

Manufacturer: Varese Sarabande
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Studs Terkel's Working (Broadway Theatre Archive)
The Baker's Wife (Members of the 1976 Original Cast)
Working: Vocal Selections
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (2005 Original Broadway Cast)
The Drowsy Chaperone (2006 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B00005LZSR
Release Date: 2001-07-10

Tracks:

All The Livelong Day (Schwartz)
Lovin' Al (Grant)
The Mason (Carnelia)
Neat to Be a Newsboy (Schwarz)
Nobody Tells Me How (Rodgers-Birkenhead)
Un mejor Dia Vendra (Taylor-Daniele-Landers)
Just A Housewife (Carnelia)
Millwork (Taylor)
If I Could've Been (Grant)
Joe (Carnelia)
It's an Art (Schwartz)
Brother Trucker (Taylor)
Fathers & Sons (Schwartz)
Cleanin' Women (Grant)
Something to Point To (Carnelia)
I'm Just Movin' (Schwartz) (from the L.A. Theatre Works complete recording of the 1999 revised version)
Hots Michael at the Piano (Carnelia) (previously unreleased demo recording performed by the composer)
The Mason (Carnelia) (previously unreleased demo recording performed by the composer)
Joe (Carnelia) (previously unreleased demo recording performed by the composer)
Lovin' Al (Grant) (previously unreleased demo recording performed by the composer)
Fathers & Sons (Schwartz) (performed by the composer)

Amazon.com

The original 1978 Broadway cast recording of Stephen Schwartz's Working has long been awaited on CD, and this great-sounding 2001 release proves it was worth the wait. Surely one of the more unlikely sources for a musical was Studs Terkel's 1972 book that compiled interviews of American working people discussing their jobs and what they liked and disliked about them. Schwartz transformed these interviews into a series of songs written by himself, Craig Carnelia, Mary Rodgers and Susan Birkenhead, Micki Grant, and pop singer James Taylor, and accordingly the variety of songs is as great as the variety of the workers featured. There's the lyric beauty of "The Mason," the rueful "Just a Housewife," the retiree's wry "Joe," the waitress's lilting "It's an Art," Taylor's pop-country "Brother Trucker," and the powerful emotion of "Fathers and Sons," realized by a compelling cast that features David Patrick Kelly, Joe Mantegna, Bob Gunton, and Lynne Thigpen, among others.

Six bonus tracks include a new version of the grocery checker song written for the 1999 L.A. Theatreworks production, Carnelia and Grant performing their own songs (unfortunately, Grant's track comes from a poor-quality audio source), and Schwartz's moving performance of "Fathers and Sons" from 1999's The Stephen Schwartz Album. Also welcome are 2001 notes from Schwartz paired with 1978 notes from Terkel, and a detailed listing of the composers and performers of each song. Working was filmed for American Playhouse in 1982. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

An underrated musical.......2006-03-16

This musical seems to be very underrated, because it isn't done in a traditional style. There is no set storyline or characters. It is essentially a grouping of songs about different people and the work they do in their lives. Some of the songs are very powerful, like "Millworker", and some are just fun, like "Lovin' Al". Some songs date the recording, as songs like "Brother Trucker", while good, have a bit of a synthesized 70's feel. The majority of the songs are more traditional.

I saw this show done by my high school years ago, so maybe it holds a bit of nostalgia for me, but it is definitely worth checking out.

Wonderful Lesser Known Gem.......2005-12-26

I have never seen Working, but would love to, and I would love to perform it so as to revive interest in it. I found out about this recording from an online site, and I fell in love with it. It's a very modern style musical although from 1978. Were it on Broadway today, it would still be revelent to today's working class. My favorite number probably has to be "It's An Art", just because of its sheer fun. I could listen to that song all day and never get bored with it. I do, however, find "Brother Trucker" to be a bit tiring, and "Neat To Be A Newsboy" is just plain old, outdated, and ANNOYING! Other than that, wonderful ablum for an almost forgetten show.

Keep Working!!!.......2004-06-12

I had the privilege of seeing a production of this wonderful musical at L.A. Valley College in May 2004. I quickly fell in love with the songs and the entire premise of the musical. Now, with this CD, I can finally sing along to all the brilliant songs over and over again, belting them out like there is no tomorrow.

What makes Working so special is that anyone can relate to the lyrics, they are powerful, beautiful, touching, and extremely real. Anyone who has ever worked a day in their life will feel the lyrics hit close to home. Whether you're a housewife, a valet parker, a fireman, a millworker, a teacher, a cleaning woman, or even a hooker, this musical has a place for you, no matter what job you do.The emotion, sincerity, and love expressed in the songs are amazing, and they are all extremely unique and a pure joy to listen to.

All the songs are fantastic but the stand-outs have to be "All the Live Long Day," "Just a Housewife," "If I Could've Been," "It's An Art," "Father's and Sons," "Cleaning Women," and "Something to Point to." I also have a soft spot for "Brother Trucker" and "I'm Just Movin" from the 1999 revival, which I am so grateful is included in this CD. This is a terrific, feel-great album everyone should listen to. Give Working a chance, it's worth it.

a good, if obscure CD.......2003-09-26

i admit that this is an obscure musical, but nevertheless i found myself in a production of WORKING as Grace, the millworker. upon listening to the cd, i found that each song characterized the character well. the newsboy song is NOT annoying and my favourite songs are "its an art", "cleaning women", "if i could've been" and "lovin al". I would only recommend this CD for a real musical theatre afficionado, as those who don't appreciate the beauty of a musical won't understand these songs.

off the beaten path.......2003-07-10

I had never heard of this show until I stage managed a musical revue that included "If I Could've Been." That song grew on me, and I finally had to check out the rest of the soundtrack. All of the music on this CD is fantastic, and the lyrics feel sincere, creating beautiful moments for each character. Stephen Schwartz's best decision with this show was collaborating, allowing different composers to bring their own talents and specialties to the music, thus making it more real and less "Broadway." My only criticism is that the liner notes are slim.

Working Classical: Orchestral and Chamber Music by Paul McCartney

Average customer rating:

nice string music
Perfect Format to Present Paul's Genius
This is NOT classical music
one of my favoirte cds
Is it possible to wear out a CD?

Working Classical: Orchestral and Chamber Music by Paul McCartney

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Standing Stone
Paul McCartney's Liverpool Oratorio
Paul McCartney: Ecce Cor Meum
Paul McCartney: Ecce Cor Meum
Thrillington

ASIN: B00001ZSXH
Release Date: 1999-10-19

Tracks:

Junk
A Leaf
Haymakers
Midwife
Spiral
Warm And Beautiful
My Love
Maybe I'm Amazed
Calico Skies
Golden Earth Girl
Somedays
Tuesday
She's My Baby
The Lovely Linda

Amazon.com

Working Classical might just be the perfect outlet for the composing skills of Sir Paul McCartney. Here, the former Beatles (and, let's not forget, Wings) member scales things down from his previous classical-music endeavors--the overweight works Liverpool Oratorio and Standing Stone. In the hands of the Loma Mar Quartet chamber group and the London Symphony Orchestra, McCartney's shorter compositions sound all the more intimate (and effective). Album opener "Junk" is a simple waltz dating from the composer's days with the Fab Four, performed here by the Quartet with short-but-sweet results. "A Leaf" is another waltz motif, this one performed with a full orchestra. McCartney pop favorites "Warm and Beautiful," "Somedays," "She's My Baby," and "The Lovely Linda" all get chamber-music treatments that bring out their compositional beauty. And, while influences seem to range from Janácek to Morricone, there's no doubting that McCartney knows how to write a convincing ditty--pop or otherwise. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

nice string music.......2007-07-13

Wow, these are nice arrangements. Very good to put on the CD player late at night and relaxing with. Very good.
Macca continues to amaze. As Ringo said in reference to "Let it Be...Naked":"(Paul) ,You were right all along."
I think when the history is written many years from now, it'll be seen that while John Lennon was the heart of the Beatles,Paul McCartney was their musical brain. I feel Mac will stand tall with other notable composers from the Western musical tradition.
AS soon as the classical snobs make themselves admit it.
Melodically,Mac can't be beat.
W/out Mac,there would've not been the Beatles as we know them today.
This CD is well worth buying.

Perfect Format to Present Paul's Genius.......2006-11-20

Confused recent reviews have argued about whether this is classical or MUZAK. Whatever you want to call the form, the music itself is brilliant and inspired. We would not give two shakes about these tunes that are in some cases thirty-six years old if they had no draw to our hearts and no merit. This album would have been released and forgotten and that definitely has not happened.

I have just listened to the broadcast of Paul's most recent classical work Ecce Cor Meum from Carnegie Hall in New York (Nov. 14, 2006) and prior to the main piece, the soprano Kate Royal and another vocalist sang these songs accompanied by the same quartet that appears on Working Classical. It was essentially a live version of this album with vocals and it was brilliant as is the original Working Classical CD. My Love, Warm and Beautiful, Calico Skies and Junk come off as extraordinarily brillant as they do on this recording. These songs, whether in this form or closer to their original form, will live forever and no amount of "orchestration" can kill them.

The same reviewer wrote: "it is a sign of the decline of serious culture that so many people actually believe that this MUZAK is classical music". How pompous some classical music fans are that they cannot conceive of any important music being written in modern times. Another reviewer wrote: "an orchestrated pop song is still a pop song". Perhaps, but that is not a fatal critcism that would obviate the joy these melodies give and emotions they hold. On the contrary, this is not elevator music. Elevator music is not compelling, its not memorble and its not written by a genius named Paul McCartney.

If you were to take a sonata by a well-known classical composer and play it among 'elevator music' with an overblown song like "Feelings", for example, would that turn it into elevator music? The discerning among us know the difference. An orchestrated pop song is not just MUZAK. That is just simple-minded. This idea comes from John Lennon's song "How Do You Sleep?" during which he idenifies Paul's music as MUZAK. John later denounced and rejected the sentiments of that song.

It turns out Paul is the coolest Beatle because he is the least affected, the least afraid to worry about what people would think about his doing something like this recording. He is not worried about the posturing associated with the tough guy rock and roll image. He is first and foremost an artist and musician--one of rare quality and talent.

This is NOT classical music.......2006-11-07

It is a sign of the decline of serious culture that so many people actually believe that this MUZAK is classical music. As another reviewer wrote: an orchestrated pop song is still a pop song. It's so funny: in the 1960s, kids used to laugh at their parents for being so square for listening to 'elevator music'(i.e., orchestrated pop songs) and not being cool and listening the Beatles...and now those kids are adults and they are listening to...elevator music written by one of the Fab Four!!

one of my favoirte cds.......2006-08-05

sir paul writes such beautiful melodies. found this in the library and just loved it. it is such a peaceful pleasure to listen to. you will find some familiar tunes and other new ones. i find it moving and lovely.

Is it possible to wear out a CD?.......2006-03-26

I first heard the song "Tuesday" on my "wake-up" radio station. I was amazed and thrilled when I found Paul McCartney as the truly gifted composer, proven by this glorious work. Some of the tracks are reminiscent of old Beatles songs.
His music possesses a gentle whimsy and include orchestral or chamber versions of some of his recognizable songs such as "Junk," "My Love" and "Maybe I'm Amazed."
I'd read all the reviews and have included a snippet from one which I am happy to share... this just says it all...

Gerald R Steele
"An extension of an event, begun in the sixties, called, "The Beatles", Paul McCartney has confirmed the importance of the original Phenomena. Some of us realized that from "I Want to Hold Your Hand" a culmination of music, from Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Gershwin, and Vaughn-Williams, was emerging.
One can only hope for more. This tribute to Linda may begin something that will reference a "pop-culture" that included "The Beatles" as the beginning to music that truly responds to "the inner-ear" of, at least, three generations. This is the stuff that lives for thousands of years." Thank you Gerald. Imagine, touching the hearts of THREE generations?

My own love for this album is enhanced by my friendships as I compare my feelings, during listening, to them. A dear friend, Linda, rides her mechanical steed every morning and I think of her as I listen to "The Lovely Linda". I can see her in the morning dawn, peddling along and enjoying the morning and life. "Calico Skies" is reminiscent of all my Mitford pals! So dignified and serene! I'll probably wear out this CD from playing it so much.

Average customer rating:

No frills blues
Simply Awesome
Albert Cummings CD review
One awesome guitar player
Working Man

Working Man
Albert Cummings
Manufacturer: Blind Pig
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Full Circle
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True to Yourself
Dirty Deal
You & Me

ASIN: B000G1R4B6
Release Date: 2006-07-18

Tracks:

Workin' Man Blues
Say You Love Me
I Feel Good
Girls To Shame
Let Me Be
Feeling End
Party Right Here
I'm Free
First Day
I'm On My Way
Rumors
Please
Last Dance

Album Description

"Working Man" is Albert Cummings' second release for Blind Pig Records. Produced by Grammy winner Jim Gaines, the album displays a growing focus and maturity both in Albert's stinging, incisive guitar work as well as in his fluently idiomatic songwriting.

Customer Reviews:

No frills blues.......2007-06-26

Saw Albert live at a Blues festival in Mesa, AZ and he carried himself much like his album sounds. No frills, just music without an attitude. He was excellent btw. This album is not "magical" like an SRV record but it does what he intended to do which was just to play some darn good music.

Simply Awesome.......2007-05-15

If you like hard-rocking blues, then Albert Cummings is your man. At times he plays a fiery guitar that's reminiscent of SRV or Joe Bonamassa and at other times he has more of a jazzy sound that reminds me of Robben Ford. The last tune on this disc, Last Dance, is a slow ballad that seems out of place and doesn't work for me, but everything else is solid. Cummings' other recordings, "True to Yourself" and "From the Heart" are also highly recommended.

Albert Cummings CD review.......2007-05-13

Albert Cummings just gets better and better. The writing, performance,
and recording quality are all very good. If you are electric blues-rock
fan, you owe it to yourself to pick up all of his CDs. Plus, catch a live
show sometime if you can. I have never seen anyone play so hard and so
long in live show. Keep it coming, Albert!

One awesome guitar player.......2007-05-11

I had never heard of this guy until I heard 'Working Man Blues' on XM radio. I looked him up and have been hooked on his music ever since. I've read a lot of reviews saying that he's the next SRV. I wouldn't say that he's just another SRV copycat or even plays like him. I would say that there is a SRV influence but that's about as far as it goes. He plays a more refined style than SRV but at the same time, has the classic Texas blues basics. This is a great album but I would not limit myself to just this one. Get all of them. They are all good in their own way. This has a better mix of slow and upbeat tunes and they ALL ROCK. Not one bad song on any of his CDs. Really good no-nonsense lyrics too. This guy is gonna go places once more people hear about him.

Working Man.......2007-04-05

A good record as a whole whit several themes worthy to review, good guitar with blend of Stevie Ray Vaughan and acceptable way of singing . Good modern electric Blues and i think the two songs "Girls to shame" and "Rumors" are very good Blues. I'll continue listening ALBERT CUMMINGS, I like him.

Working Class Hero: A Tribute to John Lennon

Average customer rating:

An excellent covers album....
Best cover album i've come across
An OK tribute to Lennon
Gooood music
Surprisingly enjoyable set of grunge-tinged covers.

Working Class Hero: A Tribute to John Lennon
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Hollywood Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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We're A Happy Family - A Tribute To The Ramones
Stoned Immaculate: The Music of the Doors
Encomium: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin
Two Rooms: Celebrating the Songs of Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Stone Free: A Tribute to Jimi Hendrix

ASIN: B000000OE4
Release Date: 1995-10-10

Tracks:

I Found Out - Red Hot Chili Peppers
I Don't Wanna Be A Soldier - Mad Season
Steel And Glass - Candlebox
Imagine - Blues Traveler
Working Class Hero - Screaming Trees
Power To The People - The Minus 5
How Do You Sleep? - The Magnificent Bastards
Nobody Told Me - Flaming Lips
Well, Well, Well - Super 8
Cold Turkey - Cheap Trick
Jealous Guy - Collective Soul
Isolation - Sponge
Instant Karma! - Toad The Wet Sprocket
Grow Old With Me - Mary Chapin Carpenter
Mind Games - George Clinton

Customer Reviews:

An excellent covers album...........2005-11-16

I ordered this from Amazon.com since I'm in the UK and this title wasn't available from Amazon UK. It took about 2 weeks to arrive and was worth the wait. As other customers have said, as a rule Lennon/Beatles cover songs aren't much good at all but this CD is a notable exception.

I admit that my reason for buying this CD was initially due to the fact that I'm an Alice In Chains fan and their late lead singer Layne Staley appears with MadSeason, his side project alongside Alice In Chains. They perform 'I don't wanna be a soldier', a song which I never thought was one of Lennon's best.
This version though(I think) is better than the original, yet at the same time sounding quite authentic, as well as being unavailable on any other album.

There are other notable tracks apart from this one, such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers' version of 'I found out'.
This sounds a lot 'grungier'(for want of a better word lol) than most of their stuff, and works well, as do tracks like 'steel and glass' by Candlebox. 'Cold Turkey'Lennon's description of the nightmare of heroin addiction, is another good track. This track starts off deceptively quietly before getting heavier, even if it isn't as harrowing as the original.

So a good covers album then, one which I feel would be particularly interesting to fans of the individual artists here, since these tracks are as far as I know unavailable elsewhere.

Best cover album i've come across.......2004-02-02

I got this disc at a used CD shop in town for six dollars, I wasn't expecting much, as most of the Lennon cover/tributes i've heard were pretty lacking. I was dead wrong. There is only one bad cover on this dics, every other is great!

Red Hot Chili Peppers/I Found Out - Slow, Angry, and funky. Something the peppers haven't ever done before and its cool to hear them do a song that doens't stick to their style. 3/5

Mad Season/I don't Wanna Be a Soldier - I never liked this song, but I think this cover is more enjoyable than to original (to me) Driving guitars and bass, and some really good vocals. 3/5

Candlebox/Steel and Glass - Awesome cover off the Walls and Bridges album. It's especially good because the guitar were buried by the string in the original, but Candlebox's cover features loud guitars and stand out bass. Cool guitar solo too 5/5

Blues Traveler/Imagine - Pretty standard in the beginning, with some cool bass fills, but after the first verse things get really blusey and some harmonica come in. Good rendition! 4/5

Screaming Trees/Working Class Hero - I always thought this was one of Lennons best, but the only cover i've heard was by Cyndi Lauper and it was awful (love cyndi though) The song starts out with just two guitars chiming with vocals, but it builds up and adds a cello and evtually drums and bass come in and give the song a lot of power, great cover. 5/5

The Minus 5/Power To The People - I head this song tacked on as a bonus track on "Plastic Ono Band" and this cover is millions of times better than the original, believe me. It is amazing Minus 5 were able to see the potential of this otherwise lackluster song, fuul of energy absolutely great. 4/5

The Magnificent Bastards/How Do you Sleep - Rockin cover. Performed with all the spite and malice of the original, featuring a cool guitar interlude. 4/5

Flaming Lips/Nobody Told Me - Amazing! recorded with cheap, super distorted guitars, it sounds perfect. Great drumming and basswork from the lips as usual. 5/5

Super 8/Well Well Well - Sounds just like the original, except for the extra loud guitars on the chorus and the awesome vocals (not to mention the solo!) 5/5

Cheap Trick/Cold Turkey - I don't like Cheap Trick, I don't like Cold Turkey, I don't like this version. Weakest cover on the disc 2/5

Collective Sound/Jealous Guy - Acoustic guitar instead of piano doing th cords on this one, no stirngs either, really cool! The only reason I don't give this one a 5 is because Elliott Smith's cover of this song is ten times better. 4/5

Sponge/Isolation - The biggst suprise on this disc. Opens with a strat playing arpeggios with the vocals, sounding very sad and eerie, but then the chorus comes in with an explosion of power chords and drums. Best cover on the disc. 5/5

Toad The Wet Sprocket/Instant Karma - a very happy, clean sounding cover. Not much else to say, very enjoyable! 4/5

Mary Chapin Carpenter/Grow Old With Me - Very sparse mostly her and a piano. The sound is so lush and beautiful, and her vocals are outstanding. 5/5

George Clinton/Mind Games - here's something unexpected, George Clinton from the funk grou Parliment giving this song some soul. Clinton does a superb jop, lots of strings and guitars, and delight and a great way to end the album! 5/5

An OK tribute to Lennon.......2003-03-23

I must admit that the reason I bought this CD is because I'm a fan of John Lennon and of the grunge scene of the early 1990's. So needless to say, I enjoyed the cover of "I Don't Want To Be A Soldier" by Mad Season (LAYNE STALEY'S VOCALS ARE ALWAYS AMAZING) and "Steel and Glass" by Candlebox, but for me the best track was "Working Class Hero" by The Screaming Trees. Mark Lanegan's voice is unbelievable and this cover is closest in my opinion to the original in quality. A pleasant surprise were Mary Chapin Carpenter's surprisingly good cover of "Grow Old With Me" and the cover of "How Do You Sleep" by The Magnificent Bastards. Collective Soul does a very good cover of Jealous Guy. Now, on to the bad. No surprise The Red Hot Chili Peppers would be found here with their cover of "I Found Out", I never liked "Power To The People", so I was going to skip it anyway, but The Minus Five didn't do all that bad with it. It actually shocked me that an established band like Cheap Trick couldn't pull off "Cold Turkey".

All in all, this disc is really worth picking up used, I'm glad I didn't pay full price, but it is a keeper since about half the tracks are at least decent.

Gooood music.......2002-07-27

Outstanding tribute album that collects Lennon's best and starts off with an incredible kicker "I found out," performed by the Chili Peppers.

"Working Class Hero" and "Imagine" are a little overdone, though, and I tend to skip through them. "Imagine" is especially drippy with emotion.

Kinda grungy guitar sounds in this with some great vocals. Definitely recommend to anyone who wants Lennon filtered through 90s rock.

-- JJ Timmins

Surprisingly enjoyable set of grunge-tinged covers........2002-02-13

I'm pretty shocked at the negative reviews above, but its kind of the nature of tribute albums. I really enjoy this CD-but I'm a big Beatles fan AND a fan of 1991-95 "Seattle Sound" type grunge. The latter part is important for enjoying this disc. "I Don't Want to be a Soldier" by Mad Season (with members of Alice in Chains and Pearl Jam) and "Working Class Hero" by Screaming Trees (another lesser known Seattle band) are the standouts, along with "I Found Out" and "Well Well Well". I thought these were excellent meldings of Lennon's awsome lyrics presented in an alternative rock format that might be more accessible to younger listeners. Then maybe they'll chase down the originals-and that's always a good thing.

Tracks:

America the Beautiful
All Quiet on the Potomac Tonight
Ballad of the Green Berets
On Top of Old Smokey
Coyote Warrior
Semper Fidelis
Breeze from Alabama
Onward Christian Soldiers
Come Where My Love Lies Dreaming
Patriot
Sweet Betsy from Pike
Marines' Hymn
America Is
When Johnny Comes Marchin' Home
Happy the Soldier
American Trilogy
Home Sweet Home
Washington Post March
Enraptured I Gaze
Jeannie With the Light Brown Hair
Yellow Rose of Texas
Over There
Simple Gifts
Liberty Bell
Star Spangled Banner

Tracks:

God Bless the USA
Yankee Doodle Dandy
Katy Cruel
I Vow to Thee My Country
King Cotton
Beautiful Dreamer
America
American Patrol
Mine Eyes Have Seen the Beauty
Mohican Dream
Red, White and Blue
Some Folks
Liberty Song
Pomp and Circumstance
Hail to the Chief
Bennington Rifles
Peace on the Battlefield
I've Been Working on the Railroad
Under the Double Eagle
Red River Valley
My Country 'Tis of Thee
Camptown Races
Wild Blue Yonder
Hands Across the Sea
Fanfare for the Common Man

Tracks:

Stars and Stripes Forever
Living in America
Home on the Range
Old Colony Times
Clementine
Invincible Eagle
Ring Ring de Banjo
Yankee Doodle
Largo from "The New World"
To a Wild Rose
Hail Columbia
Alexander's Ragtime Band
Gettysburg
Carry Me Back to Old Virginny
Capitan
Prairie Daughter
Little Brown Jug
Marching Through Georgia
Entertainer
Steamboat Around the Bend
Revolutionary Tea
Cassions Keep Rollin' Along
Johnny Has Gone for a Soldier
Amazing Grace
Grand Old Flag

Tracks:

God Bless America
National Emblem
Soldier, Soldier Won't You Marry Me
Anchors Away
Oh, Susannah
Tramp, Tramp, Tramp
Toast
Dixie
St. Louis Blues
Appalachian Spring
Bonnie Blue Flag
Old Hundreth
Swanee River
Battle Cry of Freedom
U. S Field Artillery
Sidewalks of New York
Chester
Auld Lang Syne
Kingdom Come
My Old Kentucky Home
Hail to the Spirit of Liberty
Battle Hymn of the Republic
Shenandoah
Abraham's Daughter
This Land Is Your Land

Customer Reviews:

not to great.......2007-04-04

We were disappointed with this CD, but for the price I guess we can't expect much. I didn't care for the new style presentation of the songs. I like a more traditional rendering.

Not so bad, 100 tunes for 4$.......2005-06-22

I red the comments of two other people who have bought this 4 CD BOX SET and it is not really so bad. I will even add that there are some excellent tunes. However, I must agree with the fact that few tunes seem to have been recorded 40 or 50 years ago, mainly when you hear the scratches of an old turntable but it is just 2 or 3 tunes. Furthermore, if you do not know American music, it is a good BOX SET to buy if you consider that you received 4 CD for 4$ including 100 tunes. On these 4 CD, I have heard some orchestration that I have never heard before and I consider that they are different but interesting. Any way, after hearing these 100 tunes, you will say to yourself that you like this tune, this other tune, this other tune and so on and you will be able to buy a more expensive CD with the tunes that you like. However, I have bought many CDs in the last few weeks and as you know, there are always some tunes that you like and some tunes that you do not like on every CD that you will buy. So, don't buy it at 25$ but at 4 or 5$ dollars, it is a very good choice for 100 tunes.

You get what you pay for........2004-07-04

You get what you pay for. The singers put their own spin on the singing of each song. If you didn't hear the words you would not recognize some of them. Even some of the music sounds like a bad recording of music played on a turntable. Definitely not worth the price.

Now I know why there were no song samples to listen to ..........2004-07-04

I wish this review had been here when I was thinking of purchasing it. I guess you get what you pay for. If you are thinking of buying this, you are better off recording your own CDs (or at least buying one that you can listen to a sampling of the songs). This album includes songs that were mere recordings of the songs playing on an old record player. It's almost so unbelievable that it is funny.

Average customer rating:

remember back then
Excellant Remastering of a Classic
Great bonus material and cool liner notes

Working Class Dog
Rick Springfield
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Success Hasn't Spoiled Me Yet
Living in Oz
Live in Rockford
Biography - Rick Springfield: Behind the Image (A&E DVD Archives)
Shock/Denial/Anger/Acceptance

ASIN: B000G7PNC2
Release Date: 2006-07-25

Tracks:

Love Is Alright Tonite
Jessie's Girl Springfield
Hole In My Heart
Carry Me Away
I've Done Everything For You
The Light Of Love
Everybody's Girl
Daddy's Pearl
Red Hot & Blue Love
Inside Silvia
Easy To Cry
Taxi Dancing
Jessie's Girl

Customer Reviews:

remember back then .......2007-04-16

I remember when I was a kid, my dad had this on cassette, and I picked it up and listened to it, I loved it. See, I am only 22, and I like this tape, and hopefully, I will be able to own this on cd one day. I like music like REO Speedwagon, Journey, 38 specail, Van Zant, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Billy Ray Cyrus and so much country music. Not the older country stuff. Hank Williams Jr is as old as I get when it comes to country and the early 90's. But yeah, this is definantly a great cd. Seems like it had alot of potential back then. I know Jessie's girl was a hit.

Excellant Remastering of a Classic.......2007-04-11

Finally, this great and I mean that in all sincerity CD has been given the remaster treatment. I believe every album and cassette I owned in the early 80s should be given such a treatment, and I mean the kind of styling this album got not that schlock job Chrysalis did on my Benatar CDs. On top of all 10 glorious songs from this 1981 album, the powers that be (and Ricky boy included) conjured up the "Jessie's Girl" demo, and two other songs from his orignal demo including a rocking little ditty called "Easy To Cry" - the CD even has a song by song description by Rick and two of the producers Keith Olsen & Bill Drescher. I found out some interesting stuff like Keith was called in from his sessions on Pat Benatar's Crimes Of Passion to work on 2 songs for Working Class Dog, but because Pat's album was so important he could only do it on the weekends, of course he grabbed Pat's hubby Neil Geraldo and he played on a few of the songs, and "I've Done Everything For You" a Sammy Hagar penned tune was given to Rick by Keith because Miss Patty Patty declined it saying it was too macho. But that is all petty trivia compared to the pop/rock genius that is this album - the singles need no real explanation; "Jessie's Girl", "Love Is Alright Tonite", the aformentioned "I've Done.." were all roller skating staples when I was but a wee tyke - but the other tracks are so great as well - all 3 minute pop gems "Hole In My Heart" (though I'm stil partial to Lisa Hartman's faster cover), "Carry Me Away", the reggae twinged "Daddy's Pearl", hilarious "Everybody's Girl" (it isn't nice, no but they call you everybody's girl/ they say, here she comes, here she comes, here comes everybody's girl), the jam blues punch of "Red Hot & Blue Love" and the sinister but sexy "Inside Silvia." A great pick up and a great remaster.

Great bonus material and cool liner notes.......2006-07-28

Working Class Dog was the album that made Rick Springfield an international music star. True, Rick had released albums prior to Working Class Dog, but this was the release that set him into the pop music stratosphere. Working Class Dog has been re-released after 25 years--re-mastered and with bonus tracks. Working Class Dog includes Rick Springfield's most well known hit "Jessie's Girl." Other popular songs on the album include "I've Done Everything For You," and "Love Is Alright Tonite." The best part about this re-master (in addition to the songs sounding better than ever), is that included on the CD are three bonus tracks. "Easy To Cry," and the original version of "Taxi Dancing" which have not been released in the past are included. Also on the disc is the demo version of "Jessie's Girl." As for liner notes the CD includes extensive almost Q&A style album notes from Rick Springfield and people involved with the making of the album. Quite interesting reading I must say. Rick provides comments, some quite extensive for each song on the album. Also included is a reproduction of the handwritten lyrics for "Jessie's Girl."

If you owned the album before, pick up this new version. You will only love it more.

Average customer rating:

Holman -- Fresh and Swinging
Clever and fun as always
The Bill Holman Band Live
Youth is without question....
Bill Holman's band, live

The Bill Holman Band Live
Bill Holman
Manufacturer: Jazzed Media
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Menza Lines
Live at MCG
Fantazm
On the Wild Side
Plays Well With Others

ASIN: B0009Q33N6
Release Date: 2005-06-07

Tracks:

Introduction (no music)
Woodrow
A Day In The Life
Bary Me Not
Band Introductions (no music)
Donna Lee
Blue Daniel
Press One
The Bebop Love Song
Zoot 'n' Al

Product Description

Grammy Award winning Arranger and Band Leader Bill Holman brings us his jazz big band recorded live in 2004. Bill Holman introduces many new and exciting compositions and arrangements with his star packed LA based jazz big band. The Bill Holman Band is considered the greatest working big band in jazz today.

Customer Reviews:

Holman -- Fresh and Swinging.......2007-01-27

Not only is this CD Bill Holman live, it could have been entitled "Fresh and Swinging." Holman, from his compositions and arrangements with the Kenton and Herman bands in the 1950s, has evolved himself as THE MAN who captures the essence of a big band. Lush, fresh and swinging, at every turn. Individual tunes aside, the whole performance is not "then" but "now." Any big band fan will more than enjoy this CD more than once.

Tony Agostinelli

Clever and fun as always.......2006-11-11

Yet again Holman comes through with a unique set of compositions and arrangements that are fresh, but have his stamp right on them. My three favorites are Donna Lee, Blue Daniel and Press One. I went so far as to order the arrangements from his publisher Sierra Music to study the scores.

Donna Lee has Mr. Holman's classic counterpoint and motifs that seem to flow right from the bebop melody itself. And he makes the melody unique with the subtlest of touches in doubling it at odd intervals off and on. And the ending leaves the listener saying 'Wow, what just happened?!'

In Blue Daniel, Holman's ability to keep the integrity of a song while making it his own shines forth. The counterlines and development are simple and subtle, just like the tune itself. From the rim shot kicking off the immediate statement of the melody, to the straight forward ending (with an added major seven on the last note to add that Holman 'quirk') this tune just flows.

Press One seems to me to capture the humor and joy in Homan's music that I absolutely love. It invokes the mechanical impersonal nature of automated call service from the dialing of the touch tones to the swaying lounge music you hear when you're put on hold. Just a great Holman original.

The solo performances are superb as they always are from his band. One of my favorites aspects of this cd is that you get Holman himself giving intros to each of the numbers.

It's a must for any jazz fan.

The Bill Holman Band Live.......2006-08-01

This Band is one of the best I have heard of late! I remember Bill Holman working in the 90's with the WDR Big Band (the Radio Big Band of Cologne/Germany). Musicians and audience were raving about his scores.
My favorite is 'Donna Lee', but also 'Zoot 'n' Al' sure is a great tune. Altogether a must CD with great players and music.
Bill Holman did an album with another German Big Band, the SWR Big Band/Germany in 2001: 'Jazz In Concert (Live)'.

Youth is without question...........2006-04-27

...wasted on the young. I love this Bill Holman guy. I've been listening to him for many years, like 50, without even knowing who he was. He's the guy behind the best of all big band arrangements. He's like the Duke. Now that I'm getting up there too it's hard to express how fortunate my indebtedness is to such a marvelous and great talent. Hey I've been saving this up so give me a little room to praise the best of the best. No pandering here, I don't even know him but I got his picture on the cd cover and he looks like an old fart like me. Thanks Bill. The album is tight, fit and smart with virtuoso talent. A day in the life. bob smith vashon,wa.

Bill Holman's band, live.......2006-02-28

Exciting charts from Bill Holman -- all original, and done with the brilliance of his band, made up of the best jazz/studio musicians in southern California. The charts are near impossible to just read... like many of the big band arrangements by Gil Evans for Miles Davis. Holman and Evans are thousands of miles ahead of any other big band writers.

Dreamgirls in Concert (2001 Concert Cast)

Average customer rating:

Dreamgirls 2001
Not the real "DREAM" experience
Absolutely brilliant!
Amazing!!!!!!
One Night Only

Dreamgirls in Concert (2001 Concert Cast)
Henry Krieger , Audra McDonald , Brian Stokes Mitchell , Emily Skinner , and Darius de Haas
Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Dreamgirls (1982 Original Broadway Cast)
Dreamgirls: Music From The Motion Picture [2-CD Deluxe Edition]
Dreamgirls
Company (2006 Broadway Revival Cast)
Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B00005Y4P4
Release Date: 2002-02-26

Tracks:

I'm Looking for Something, Baby
Goin' Downtown
Takin' the Long Way Home
Move (You're Steppin on My Heart)
Scene: Fifty bucks says the Dreamettes don't win
Fake Your Way to the Top
Scene: It ain't working, Marty
Cadillac Car
Cadillac Car (On the Road)
Cadillac Car (Recording Studio)
Scene: I don't believe they can do that
Steppin' to the Bad Side
Scene: I'm working on a long shot
Party, Party
I Want You, Baby
Scene: I'm a woman now
Family
Scene: What are you doing to that girl?
Dreamgirls
Press Conference
Heavy
Walkin' Down the Strip/Scene: Las Vegas
It's All Over
And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going

Tracks:

Opening Act II: Dreams Medley
Scene: Effie White is the best singer you're gonna find
I Am Changing
Vogue Sequence
When I First Saw You
Ain't No Party
I Meant You No Harm
The Rap
I Miss You, Old Friend
One Night Only
One Night Only (Disco Version)
I'm Somebody
Hard to Say Good-bye
Dreamgirls (Reprise)

Amazon.com

A Chorus Line may be better known, but Dreamgirls was a towering achievement for director Michael Bennett. Loosely based on the Supremes' story, the 1982 musical told a typical show-biz tale of fame, backbiting, and survival. As is often the case for one-night only events, the cast in this concert version (recorded in New York on September 24, 2001) is led by an eye-popping assortment of Broadway powerhouses: Lillias White (The Life), Audra McDonald (Ragtime, Marie Christine), and Heather Headley (Ragtime). McDonald reveals a previously undisclosed comic streak, while Headley confirms her status as a rising star. Reprising the role of Effie Melody White (created by Jennifer Holliday), White belts the classic "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going." But the beauty of Dreamgirls is that it's so packed with catchy, Motown-influenced R&B numbers that each lead can sink her teeth into some prime material and get a turn in the spotlight. This double-CD set really makes you wish you'd been there when the show was recorded: you can hear the crowd going berserk at times, and the temptation is strong to do the same thing in the comfort of your living room. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

Dreamgirls 2001.......2007-06-27

This was the worst reproduction of Dreamgirls that I ever heard. I was so disappointed the CD went into the garbage. This is one CD that I would not sell to the public because I expect so much and get so little.

Not the real "DREAM" experience.......2007-04-04

Forget about the film sountrack. Get this CD set. And it's far better than the original cast recording which goes lacking. More songs and more everything that makes a live performance just what it is. Live (compared to film where anything can be done to enhance a performance!) -- the energy, the excitement and the performances make this a rare treat for anyone wanting to share in the real DREAM experience.

Isn't a full Broadway revival long over due. But wait: I've heard rumors that a rvial may be "in the works. I certainly hope so. Maybe this time it will receive the Tony award it deserved in the first place.

Absolutely brilliant!.......2007-01-28

There is atleast 5 new songs on this album that were not in the movie! These girls kill it I mean they are just amazing singers, and this all live! This is needed for any Dreamgirls fanatic like me! You are gonna love it! Enjoy! love live laugh :)

Amazing!!!!!!.......2006-12-04

As a theatre lover, this recording is amazing. I actually prefer this recording to the OBC. Sheryl Lee Ralph is okay, but can't touch Audra's Deena. The first time I heard Ms. White's "And I Am Telling You..", goosbumps all over my body. The only weak cast member in my opinon is Heather Headly. Vocally, she just isn't there. Too much Aida, not enough Dreamgirls. But all in all, a great live recording of a great show.

One Night Only .......2006-07-19

I was lucky enough to attend this One Night Only concert performance of Dreamgirls and it was a night I will never forget!! The cast was brilliant and the cd is as good if not better than the Broadway cast recording because it is the entire show not just the songs. Bravo to everyone involved !!!

Average customer rating:

great band, solid album
I'm glad I gave it a shot!
The ever-working title
Great Album, Spectacular Band
really good.

About-Face
The Working Title
Manufacturer: Umvd Labels
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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

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ASIN: B000FKO59M
Release Date: 2006-07-18

Tracks:

About-Face
Nothing Less Radiant
P.S.
This Is Not Glorious
Under the Ground
Crash
Something She Said
Weigh Me Down
Never Run Again
Mary Getaway (I Lost Everything)
Blind
There Is None
We Are Enslaved
Turbulence

Customer Reviews:

great band, solid album.......2007-06-12

i first saw The Working Title when they opened for Goo Goo Dolls and Counting Crows, and they made a huge impression on me, my favorite band of the night. they are masters of taking a simple idea and tweaking it slightly with instrumentation and song roadmap to make something special. i'm not talking groundbreaking stuff, but a great listen. the first track and a couple later on do hint of Brand New influences, but may not be as obvious as it was to me. their best songs on this album are actually a few tracks in which is rare these days, and even after many listens, i find myself not skipping any tracks. far enough away from the middle ground of emo, this album is a must buy for rock lovers looking for something new to listen to. go see them live if you can too!

I'm glad I gave it a shot!.......2007-02-27

I first heard The Working Title live last summer when they were an opening act. They weren't bad or anything but I wasn't overly impressed and only one song in their set (under the ground) caught my attention. I loved it, downloaded it and neglected the rest of the album, that is until recently. Bored and searching for new music I found this for exceptionally cheap and thought why not. I'm so happy I took the chance because I really like it! I enjoyed the entire thing on the first listen. "About face", the first track is good, but short. The next track, "nothing less radiant", really launches it and is a great song. "P.S." is even better. "This is not glorious" is decent, not one of my favorites, but still a wonderful listen. "Under the Ground" as I mentioned above was the 1st song I fell in love with. What can I say, it just spoke to me. It is still tied for my favorite. "The crash" is another fantastic song. And now for "something she said", this in my opinion is the absolute best song on the album! It is beautiful, sad and about letting go. After "something she said" the next three songs (weigh me down, never run again, and the mary getaway) are all fabulous. "Blind" is alright, not bad just not one I listen to often, probably my least favorite. "There is none" is my third favorite I would have to say. To me it's about frustration. "We are enslaved" is yet another enjoyable tune. This may be completely random but something about the sound of the chorus reminds me of that Seal song kiss from a rose...I don't know. The last song "turbulence" also contains a hidden track, both of which are nice and finish off the album on a good note. In summary, there is something about the album that I find comforting, honest, simple and true. Check it out if your interested. Getting it used is a steal!

The ever-working title.......2006-09-01

Not particularly my main choice of music, but if your a music enthusiast and concider it a passion then it spares itslef. First time I ever heard of this band was with my girlfriend at the time and saw them at the Knitting Factory in NYC. Out of all the bands that were there they were hands down the best perfomers there, on the level of sound clarity and stage presance. Their music to some, as I know to me, really can grab that feeling, or emotion that your looking for in a certain artist or song. One can really relate to at least one song on the album. Their music isnt non-sense, it dows mean something. It sounds like Joel (lead vocalist), might be chasing or just expressing his feelings on a past, present, or future love. Their first cd, Everyone Here Is Wrong, to me sounded better produced and Joel sounded more relaxed behind the mic. Aside from that ther cd is really great if you like soothing, relaxing music to get that peice of mind and break from the norm. I also recommend seeing them in concert, from my experience at PNC with The Counting Crows, excellent show. Enjoy.
-Brian

Great Album, Spectacular Band.......2006-08-04

The Working Title is one of those band which will likely explode over the coming months. This is their first full length album, and it is a success. There is a great diversity of tracks which showcases Joel and the band's range. There is no one extraordinary track, but instead nearly every track is great. My favorite tracks include Weigh Me Down, Crash, and Under the Ground. This album has been in the works for a long time and it was worth the wait.

Although this is a great album, you really need to see them live. They have amazing energy and a kind of passion for their music you can rarely find. They are currently on tour with the goo goo dolls and counting crows which I'm sure will be good, but if you can see them in a smaller more intimate venue you'll be blown away. Earlier this year they played together with Augustana (another great new band) making for perhaps the best show I've ever been to.

really good........2006-07-30

i bought this on the release date as well. this band's songwriting and maturity is really impressive. i would have to say my favorites are this is not glorious, the crash, and there is none. the disc sounds great and some production duty was handled by dave bryson (counting crows) definitely get this. one of the year's best.

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