Madness of the West [Import]

madness of the west [import]

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Mid-priced collection featuring 17 of the best from theiryears with the Arista label, including the top 40 hit'Straight From The Heart' & the single 'Angeline'. 1998Camden release.

Madness of the West,The Allman Brothers Band,Bmg/Camden,Album Rock,Blues-Rock,Boogie Rock,Hard Rock,Rock,Rock/Pop,Slide Guitar Blues,Southern Rock,United States of America

Madness of the West [Import]
West
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Lucinda Williams, Who Knew...
  • Please Don't Say "This Is Her Best"
  • Very disappointed....
  • Good; not great
  • Alt-country emo??
 West
Lucinda Williams
Manufacturer: Lost Highway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Alt-Country & AmericanaAlt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music
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Alternative FolkAlternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
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Folk RockFolk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music
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Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000LXHGFI
Release Date: 2007-02-13

Tracks:

  1. Are You Alright?
  2. Mama You Sweet
  3. Learning How To Live
  4. Fancy Funeral
  5. Unsuffer Me
  6. Everything Has Changed
  7. Come On
  8. Where Is My Love?
  9. Rescue
  10. What If
  11. Wrap My Head Around That
  12. Words
  13. West

Amazon.com

Though the arrangements stray from Lucinda Williams's motherlode blend of blues, country, and folk, West may well be her best album. It is easily her most musically adventurous, and often her most lyrically inspired. Williams's singing has never sounded better, from the aching tenderness of "Where Is My Love?" to the ravaged catharsis of "Unsuffer Me." New York producer Hal Willner, who has worked with artists such as Marianne Faithful and Lou Reed, enlists the support of eclectic progressives like guitarist Bill Frisell, keyboardist Bob Burger, and violinist Jenny Scheinman, along with harmonies from the Jayhawks' Gary Louris, to weave a subtly rich sonic tapestry. Much of the material was inspired by the death of Williams's beloved mother ("Mama You Sweet," "Fancy Funeral") and the bitter breakup of a relationship (the jagged-edged emasculation of "Come On," the repetitive incantation of "Wrap My Head Around That"), though "Are You Alright?," "Learning How to Live," and "Everything Has Changed" could reflect the aftermath of both. Other highlights include "Rescue," with a languid subtlety and ambient pulse reminiscent of Beth Orton, and the dreamy, wistful title track. Where Williams's music has long cut close to the bone, the best of West slices right through it. --Don McLeese

Lucinda Wiliams Photos

More Lucinda Williams

Car Wheels on a Gravel Road
World Without Tears
Essence

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Lucinda Williams, Who Knew..........2007-07-12

I know a lot of people have listened to Ms. Williams for years. I had heard of her, but never listened to her music. I was definitely missing out!

This cd was incredible. I loved all of the songs.

I mostly listen to mainstream country music, and I think it's sad that people like Lucinda Williams and Alison Moorer aren't played. Their music is amazing.

I have since bought two more of her cds, and plan to buy more!

It's nice to listen to songs that actually have something to say.

2 out of 5 stars Please Don't Say "This Is Her Best".......2007-07-10

Disclaimer: I am new to Lucinda's own albums, so maybe I shouldn't be reviewing this just yet before hearing a few more. But it does seem like everything else has been steering me right here, with everybody telling me to proceed no further before checking this out. So now *please* tell me that West is some kind of fly in the ointment. She sounds totally rasped out, like Stevie Nicks with a really bad cold. Please tell me that she's in a songwriting slump, too. I find myself in accord with Big Jim's one-star review below - these songs don't feel like stories, let alone lyrics - there's too much line repetition to communicate much except dull emotion. If this were a blues album it would be one thing, but clearly it's not. And how can these be called melodies when all they do is hover around one or two notes in practically every song, showing off very little of her range (somebody please tell me that she displays some vocal range somewhere else).

Coming from a pretty good appreciation of lady singer/songwriter/interpreters like Emmylou Harris, Bonnie Raitt, Alison Krauss, Gillian Welch, and others with similar talents, even ones with narrow but beautiful instruments like Rickie Lee Jones, I was hoping to add a little bit of spice to the rack - but this album is a huge let-down. When I learned that Hal Willner, Bill Frisell and Jim Keltner were major contributors to West, I figured that I would at least be intrigued by *some* of the tracks - sorry - even after several listenings that's not happening. I really do like Lucinda's one track on the 2001 MJH tribute album Avalon Blues: A Tribute to the Music of Mississippi John Hurt, but then again I like ALL of that 5-star gem. Somebody *please* confirm for me that this is not the best way to be introduced to Ms. Williams on a large scale. How much longer should I listen to my trusty sources when West is what they are telling me is my next "must have".

2 out of 5 stars Very disappointed...........2007-07-08

that's that I was when I heard this record. Even in concert, Lucinda just seems like such a drag anymore. I know, her mom died recently, but this whole record is such a downer, and her voice just drones on and on and on.

Give me Lucinda's self titled CD any day over her last 2 records...

3 out of 5 stars Good; not great.......2007-07-07

She has a couple of excellent tracks on this CD. I especially like "Are You Alright", but the overall work seems uninspired. I find it a bit of a downer, in the main (and, yes, I understand the inspiration.) I recognize her artistry as a songwriter, but her voice on this CD -- after a while, its nasal quality begins to grate; she doesn't do that as well as Tracy Chapman.

2 out of 5 stars Alt-country emo??.......2007-06-18

No, really--I love Lucinda Williams. I've liked her earlier albums and I like her voice; it's a nice change in a music genre that often seems to idealize baby-voiced vocalists like Emmylou Harris, Nanci Griffith, and Iris DeMent (all of whom are fine singers, of course, but it's unusual to hear a female singer with Williams' deep, husky, voice).

I found this album musically monotonous. Really monotonous. Like, sleep-inducing. I could chalk that up to personal taste and forgive it if more of the songs had lyrics that were interesting or meaningful beyond fairly standard pop fare. Too many of these, as much as I hate to think it, were warmed-over rhymes and old themes with no new insight.

Get Car Wheels instead.
Sirens Of The Ditch
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • A great debut CD, with the best song of the year so far
  • Amazing Album!
  • One of Rock 'n Rolls Brightest today...
  • Listen to this!
  • Excellent CD!
 Sirens Of The Ditch
Jason Isbell
Manufacturer: New West Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Southern RockSouthern Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000QUU2UW
Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

  1. Brand New Kind Of Actress (5:31)
  2. Down In A Hole (4:18)
  3. Try (4:48)
  4. Chicago Promenade (3:19)
  5. Dress Blues (4:07)
  6. Grown (3:42)
  7. Hurricanes and Hand Grenades (5:07)
  8. In A Razor Town (3:15)
  9. Shotgun Wedding (3:45)
  10. The Magician (4:16)
  11. The Devil Is My Running Mate (3:45)

Amazon.com

Guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Isbell was a driving force in the rousing postmodern Southern rock band Drive-By Truckers. Sirens of the Ditch is his solo debut. A resident of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Isbell clearly has Catholic taste in his roots rock. His backing band throws together a pleasant mélange of pedal steel, organ, strummed acoustic guitar, and heartfelt Americana vocals. At first, it sounds like something you've heard before a thousand times, by Ryan Adams or was that Bryan Adams. However, on closer inspection, there's a lot more going on. After rhyming "bitch" with "ditch" in the song "Ditch," Isbell throws in a line about "dancing to 'Purple Rain'" and you're drawn in, to a clearly delineated but poetic storyline and gorgeous melodies. Isbell's best songs will remind you of Richard Buckner, Raymond Carver, and Neil Young. "Dress Blues" might be the most sympathetic and awesome song about the Iraq war yet written. Huzzah. --Mike McGonigal

Product Description

Accomplished guitarist and songwriter Jason Isbell, formerly of Drive By Truckers (DBT), releases his debut solo album Sirens Of The Ditch.

The album rocks with 11 tracks all written by Isbell kicking off with "Brand New Kind Of Actress", followed by the rocker "Down In A Hole", a swampy number featuring Muscle Shoals natives Spooner Oldham and David Hood. Isbell s songwriting skills shine especially on "Dress Blues" a pensive ballad about a high-school classmate who lost his life fighting in Iraq and "Chicago Promenade" a tribute to his late Grandfather.

Listeners caught glimpses of Isbell s skills on Drive-By Truckers records with tracks like "Danko/Manuel" and "Outfit".

Sirens Of The Ditch's mystical quality can be partially attributed to the FAME recording studio (Aretha Franklin, Duane Allman, Otis Redding) in Isbell s hometown of Muscle Shoals, AL where the album was recorded. A lot of old soul musicians came through here in the late 60s and 70s and helped define the Muscle Shoals sound, the lifelong Alabamian explains, so that influence was always in my environment, but on this record I really tried to capture that.

Co-produced by Isbell and Patterson Hood (DBT), Sirens Of The Ditch features Isbell singing lead vocals and playing guitar throughout, joined by Shonna Tucker (DBT) on Bass and Brad Morgan (DBT) on drums. Several musicians pop in for cameos including Spooner Oldham and David Hood (Patterson s father) on "Down In A Hole", John Neff (DBT) on "Dress Blues" and Patterson himself guests on "Shotgun Wedding".

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A great debut CD, with the best song of the year so far.......2007-07-15

If you were lucky enough to see DBT during the Isbell years, then you probably understand why he left the band: here was a talented, driven dude who had mastered his voice, his guitar, and songwriting -- and was restrained by playing third fiddle to Hood and Cooley, both fine musicians and songwriters in thier own right. It was easy even then to envision Jason heading out on his own for a legendary solo career. He's done so, and lived up to the promise of such great songs as "G'dammned Lonely Love," "Decoration Day," and the unforgettable "Outfit."

The whole album is great, but if there's a better song than "Dress Blues" released this year, I'll be monumentally surprised. If John Prine had grown up in Muscle Shoals and was beginning his career during Gulf War II, this is what his songs would have sounded like.

Great Job, Jason. Can't wait to see you and the band play in Cincinnati on July 26th!

5 out of 5 stars Amazing Album!.......2007-07-13

I've been a fan of DBT and specifically of Jason's for a few years now, and am so happy this much anticipated album is finally out. Jason Isbell is an unbelievably talented song writer and musician, and this album reflects that talent. I've been listening to it non-stop since I picked it up July 10th. This album is a must have, and if you get a chance, go see Jason live. He puts on a rockin' show- you will not be disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars One of Rock 'n Rolls Brightest today..........2007-07-11

I had the privilege to hear Jason with his band the 400 Unit debut this new material in Memphis a few weeks ago along with his DBT songs. I truly believe he's one of the brightest young singer/songwriters out there today and only seems to get better. This is a stew pot of influences, in particular, Neil Young,Dylan,the Stones,Springsteen,Ryan Adams,Jay Farrar stirred in with Booker T. & the MG's, Muscle Shoals rhythm and Haggard. "Dress Blues" is just one of the best songs I've ever heard period, but they're all excellent. I still love DBT but that's just too much songwriting talent for one band. If you get the chance go check out Jason and his stellar band. Rock on Jason and DBT.

5 out of 5 stars Listen to this!.......2007-07-11

Jason Isbell is on the cusp of "majordom" A fine singer/ guitarist, quality songwriter, this is a great 1st cd, or any cd, if you love music, real music, buy this, and tell other people to buy it too!

5 out of 5 stars Excellent CD!.......2007-07-10

I only recently discovered Jason Isbell, and I loved the songs he wrote with DBT (while not much liking DBT). This CD is everything I had hoped for. Beautiful ballads, a few rocking tunes, a diverse mix of styles, and all tied together by Jason's funny, smart and wise lyrics. Anyone who loves real music needs to hear Jason Isbell.
Black Snake Moan
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • music is life
  • bluestastic
  • Wonderful Soundtrack!
  • At least this snake isn't moaning on a plane!
  • North Mississippi Hills blues sampler
 Black Snake Moan

Manufacturer: New West Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Delta BluesDelta Blues | Blues | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000L211NC
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Tracks:

  1. Opening Theme / Scott Bomar
  2. Ain't But One Kind Of Blues / Son House
  3. Just Like A Bird Without A Feather / Samuel L Jackson
  4. When The Lights Go Out / The Black Keys
  5. Standing In My Doorway Crying / Jesse Mae Hemphill
  6. Chicken Heads / Bobby Rush
  7. Black Snake Moan / Samuel L Jackson
  8. Morning Train / Precious Bryant
  9. The Losing Kind / John Doe
  10. Lord Have Mercy On Me / Outragious Cherry
  11. Ronnie and Rae's Theme / Scott Bomar
  12. The Chain / Scott Bomar
  13. Alice Mae / Samuel L Jackson
  14. Stack-O-Lee / Samuel L Jackson
  15. Old Black Mattie / R.L. Burnside
  16. That's Where The Blues Started / Son House
  17. Mean Ol' Wind Died Down / North Mississippi Allstars

Amazon.com

This soundtrack to the film written and directed by Craig Brewer is as steeped in the Southern blues as his Hustle and Flow was in hip-hop. The biggest surprise here is how well actor Samuel L. Jackson (who seems to have a thing for "Snake" films) holds his own as a blues singer against selections from Son House and R.L. Burnside. He sounds like a throwback to the classic Delta bluesmen on "Just Like a Bird Without a Feather," does a convincing take on the Blind Lemon Jefferson title track, and rocks the juke joint on "Alice Mae" and a down-and-dirty recasting of "Stack-O-Lee." Produced by the Bo-Keys' Scott Bomar (who also scored Brewer's previous movie), the 17-cut soundtrack features a kaleidoscopic array of blues, from the primal throb of the Black Keys' "When the Lights Go Out" and the funk of Bobby Rush's classic "Chicken Heads" to the spiritual lilt of Precious Bryant's "Morning Train" and the North Mississippi Allstars' expansive finale, "Mean Ol' Wind Died Down." --Don McLeese

Album Description

Black Snake Moan, the latest film from Hustle And Flow director Craig Brewer, tells a tale of love, betrayal, sex and salvation. It stars Samuel L Jackson, Christina Ricci and Justin Timberlake. The film take place in Memphis, Tennessee and the local blues music from the area is a central part of the movie.

The soundtrack includes some classic and current blues artists including Son House, R.L. Burnside, North Mississippi Allstars and the singing debut of Samuel L Jackson.

While the Black Snake Moan soundtrack presents the best musical moments of the movie, as a stand-alone document, its seventeen tracks weave together a raw depiction of today's North Mississippi scene: a little bit country, and a little bit rock'n'roll, both built on a bedrock of primitive blues.

The Black Snake Moan soundtrack is a must have for fans of the film, the Blues, Samuel L Jackson or just a music fan looking for something very cool.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars music is life.......2007-07-14

The audio CD is not as good as the DVD.
Good story - the DVD translation to audio CD dissapoints as the soul feeling isn't there. Samuel Jackson could have a second career as he did pour his soul into the music [not evident on the audio CD of Black Snake Moan.] It's another way to make us pay more dollars for what technology doesn't want to deliver/share.

I like the DVD but if I want to listen to just the music -well you'll have to decide what is more relevant to you.

Old Mississippi blues, the heart of the soul. I'd rather have the soul.

5 out of 5 stars bluestastic.......2007-03-19

This soundtrack to the excellent film was obviously put together by people who both know and feel a responsibility to the blues. Samuel L Jackson adds vocals to four tracks and does an admirable job; on 'Just like a Bird Without a feather' he more than holds his own alongside classic blues singers like RL Burnside and Jessie Mae Hemphill. John Doe--from the punk band X--adds a track as well that fits in much better than one might think.

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful Soundtrack!.......2007-03-11

Watching the movie I was overwhelmed by the greatness of its soundtrack, and after purchasing this CD I was pleased to see that everything still seemed as wonderful. I am not a blues afficianado, but I do appreciate good music. I think that most anyone could enjoy this soundtrack.

4 out of 5 stars At least this snake isn't moaning on a plane!.......2007-02-28

On this relatively good collection of mostly blues tunes, the main curiosity item is to see how well actor Samuel Jackson carries off the singer role. He sings four songs on this soundtrack CD, and acquits himself pretty admirably, although the standard comment about the day job does apply here. Otherwise the theme is the blues, but actually several of the tunes swim in that deep, dark water where blues, soul, gospel and rock 'n' roll meet. I thought the John Doe cut was excellent, and I also really liked the R&B leanings of the Bobby Rush track, and the Black Keys song is pretty great too. The score cues by Scott Bomar provide nice atmosphere in a Ry Cooder-ish vein (smoky slide guitar). In all, the CD is a reasonably enjoyable listen.

5 out of 5 stars North Mississippi Hills blues sampler.......2007-02-26

The soundtrack to the upcoming film, "Black Snake Moan" is a nice curiosity for the blues aficionado, but like opening Pandora's box for the uninitiated. Those familiar with the hypnotic, drowning, trance-like sounds of the North Mississippi hills a la Fat Possum records will find a lot to enjoy here, including tracks by the actual visible heads of that style, such as the late Jessie Mae Hemphill and R.L. Burnside. In fact, this entire CD relies heavily on the aural legacy of R.L. Burnside, providing some sort of last will after the bluesman's passing last year.
For those unfamiliar with the evolution of blues as a genre, the North Mississippi blues is somehow primitive, repetitive (almost mantra-like), but results in a very authentic, tribal-style variety of the blues. But blues and movie lovers alike will be curious about Samuel L. Jackson's credibility as a bona fide blues singer. The surprise is how adequate he is. He might not be the next Muddy Waters, but he delivers convincingly and, despite lacking a thunderous voice, he owns the role of a bluesman as a modern herald of human suffering. His outrageous cover of "Stackolee" fronting the R.L. Burnside live unit plus Luther Dickinson from the North Mississippi Allstars is a highlight, but his recitative to eerie bluesy sounds in "Black Snake Moan" is even better.
The established names showing up in this CD include Bobby Rush, fresh from the Chitlin circuit, acoustic blues-gospel singer Precious Bryant, as well as the aforementioned Jessie Mae Hemphill and R.L. Burnside. One misses at least one track from the other godfather of the North Mississippi sound, Junior Kimbrough. Many listeners will be already familiar with the North Mississippi Allstars. Their entry on this CD is a mellow, evocative piece augmented by fife-and-drum background over NMA's classic and classy slide sound.
The soundtrack tracks, by Scott Bomar, include a true allstar lineup including the Dickinson brothers and Charlie Musselwhite on harp, and they are uniformly exciting and interesting, keeping a sense of continuity throughout the CD.
In summary, this is more than a curiosity for blues aficionados, sitting proudly by their Junior Kimbroughs' and R.L. Burnsides', and it will definitively attract outside attention to this particular brand of the blues, providing an introductory-level package that will bring on more "true believers". Highly recommended.
Preludes
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • peaking through a crack in a closed door
  • Perfection
  • Preludes
  • zevon
  • Thank you, Jordan
Preludes
Warren Zevon
Manufacturer: New West Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000NVIXJG
Release Date: 2007-05-01

Tracks:

  1. Empty Hearted Town (3:05) (solo piano)
  2. Steady Rain (4:23) (full band)
  3. Join Me In L.A. (2:33) (solo guitar)
  4. Hasten Down The Wind (2:34) (solo piano)
  5. Werewolves Of London (3:36) (full band)
  6. Tule's Blues (3:08) (solo piano)
  7. The French Inhaler (3:34) (solo guitar)
  8. Going All The Way (2:19) (full band)
  9. Poor Poor Pitiful Me (3:12) (full band)
  10. Studebaker (2:23) (solo piano)
  11. Accidentally Like A Martyr (3:02) (full band)
  12. Carmelita (4:01) (solo guitar)
  13. I Used To Ride So High (2:54) (full band)
  14. Stop Rainin' Lord (2:13) (solo guitar)
  15. The Rosarita Beach Cafi (4:12) (solo piano with backing vocals)
  16. Desperados Under The Eaves (3:49) (full band)

Tracks:

  1. I WAS IN THE HOUSE WHEN THE HOUSE BURNED DOWN (3:02)
  2. Warren speaks on songwriting and the early days of his career (7:14)
  3. Musings on mortality, song noir and The King of Rock n' Roll (5:07)
  4. A chat about producers and the stark sounds on the album Life'll Kill Ya (5:09)
  5. BACK IN THE HIGH LIFE (3:11)
  6. Warren's take on Winwood's classic and Warren's inspirations (3:58)
  7. Talk of TV, movies, acting and performing (5:14)
  8. DON'T LET US GET SICK (3:10) (solo acoustic) Recorded live 12/3/99 at Austin City Limits Studios for 107.1 KGSR Radio Austin 9th Anniversary Concert

Amazon.com

After Warren Zevon's death in 2003, his son Jordan was clearing out a storage space when he found a large stash of demos and home recordings Zevon had made before 1976. Winnowed down from many hours of tape, this selection is so satisfying you're left awaiting another volume almost instantly. Preludes has been generously packaged with a booklet overflowing with reminiscences and insight from peers and family, as well as a bonus disc with recent interview extracts and choice selections from 2000's Life'll Kill Ya. The rough sound quality is more than made up for by the performances. Highlights include a speedier, country-punk garage take on "Poor, Poor Pitiful Me" and the original demo of "Werewolves of London," here presented in a slowed-down reggae-ish (and campier) take. Only two of these 16 takes fall flat: the vocals on "Accidentally Like a Martyr" are just too bleak even for Zevon, while the faux-sunshine Eagles-y production on "Ride So High" is interesting but just too anachronistic. The versions of "French Inhaler" and "Carmelita" show Zevon in his angry, post-Dylan singer-songwriter style. It's reminiscent of the best John Cale solo recordings. Poignant, beautiful and bitter, it's no wonder the guy didn't fit in with his California contemporaries. As with Townes Van Zandt, there's something of a great short story in Zevon's songs; confronted with them in all their ragged, stripped-down glory, it's clear what a major talent he was. --Mike McGonigal

More from Warren Zevon


Stand in the Fire


The Envoy


Excitable Boy


Warren Zevon


The Wind


Genius: The Best of Warren Zevon

Album Description

Warren Zevon passed way from mesothelioma, a form of asbestos related lung cancer in 2003. A few months later, his son, Jordan, drove out to one of his dad's storage spaces in the San Fernando Valley to begin the sorting the process. He discovered over a 100 unreleased outtakes and demos in a piano-sized touring case.

Preludes features 16 of the best of these discovered recordings, including 6 unreleased tracks "Empty Hearted Town," "Going All The Way," "Steady Rain," "Stop Rainin Lord" "Studebaker" and "Rosarita Beach Café." All songs were recorded pre-1976. Other gems are previously unheard versions of "Werewolves of London" and "Accidentally Like A Martyr". The 2nd disc features an in-depth radio interview Warren did with Jody Denberg in 2000.

The deluxe 2CD package in a hardbound slipcase contains a 44-page booklet with dozens of family photos, all previously unpublished. Pictures are placed within excerpts from the forthcoming memoir I¹ll Sleep When I¹m Dead: The Dirty Life and Times of Warren Zevon. Released by Ecco/Harper Collins.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars peaking through a crack in a closed door.......2007-07-15

The release of this CD is akin to peaking through a crack in a closed door. We are given another opportunity to hear Mr Zevon "reinterpret" songs that were indelibly imprinted into our memories. And though this is not a live album, listening to these songs i feel as if i have stumbled across some of Warren's most memorable and private performances.

A must listen for Zevon diehards.

5 out of 5 stars Perfection.......2007-07-06

I love the unreleased version of Werewolves of London even more than the familiar one. And the interview was somewhat eye-opening as to the personality of Zevon. Essential for any true fan of his work.

5 out of 5 stars Preludes.......2007-07-05

Preludes is excellent - more true genius from Zevon. Three songs, especially, stick in my mind - Heavy Rain, Empty Hearted Town and Rosarita Beach Cafe. How wonderful to be able to hear new Zevon even after he has left us.

5 out of 5 stars zevon.......2007-06-27

best for a big fan, demos of later hits a treat, as are zevon comments and unique versions of several songs

5 out of 5 stars Thank you, Jordan .......2007-06-12

The second cd is very interesting and worth a couple of hearings. The first cd is like the world's best flea market. Even the lesser stuff that you do not want to buy is at least interesting and there are several priceless, previously unreleased gems, such as Stop Raining Lord, The Rosarita Beach Cafe, a goofy version of Werewolves and, my favorite, an alternate version of Accidentally Like A Martyr with lyrics that might have been written by Catullus. This album is a must for any Zevon fan.
Time Out
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Time Out for a Timeless Classic
  • A classic !
  • This CD Changed The Rules
  • Time out....Dave Brubeck Quartet
  • Brubeck in SACD...heaven
 Time Out
Dave Brubeck Quartet
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002AGN
Release Date: 1997-03-25

Tracks:

  1. Blue Rondo A La Turk
  2. Strange Meadow Lark
  3. Take Five
  4. Three To Get Ready
  5. Kathy's Waltz
  6. Everybody's Jumpin'
  7. Pick Up Sticks

Amazon.com essential recording

Boasting the first jazz instrumental to sell a million copies, the Paul Desmond-penned "Take Five," Time Out captures the celebrated jazz quartet at the height of both its popularity and its powers. Recorded in 1959, the album combines superb performances by pianist Brubeck, alto saxophonist Desmond, drummer Joe Morrello and bassist Gene Wright. Along with "Take Five," the album features another one of the group's signature compositions, "Blue Rondo a la Turk." Though influenced by the West Coast-cool school, Brubeck's greatest interest and contribution to jazz was the use of irregular meters in composition, which he did with great flair. Much of the band's appeal is due to Desmond, whose airy tone and fluid attack often carried the band's already strong performances to another level. Together, he and Brubeck proved one of the most potent pairings of the era. --Fred Goodman

Album Details

Limited Millennium Edition. Packed in a Heavy Weight Card Wallet that Faithfully Recreates the Original Vinyl Sleeve, Right Down to the Inner Bag. The Wallet Will Come in a Plastic Cover.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Time Out for a Timeless Classic.......2007-07-04

This is a reissue of the 1959 studio session. Although Blue Rondo and Take Five are the signature pieces for the Quartet, the other tracks are in keeping with the innovative time signatures 5/4, 6/4 and variations of 4/4 and 3/4 time. What else can you say except it's a classic and belongs in evryone's collection.

5 out of 5 stars A classic ! .......2007-07-01


This Cd is just GREAT and such a Jazz classic! The re-mastered version of this Album is absolutely wonderful---sounding so crisp and sharp!

The songs speak for themselves, as they are some of Brubeck's most famous hits.

This is a highly recommended re-mastered version of Dave's TIME OUT Album!

5 out of 5 stars This CD Changed The Rules.......2007-06-16

This album changed the rules in jazz in two important ways. First, it introduced atypical time signatures to jazz performers. Performers were pushing ever other musical limit, including harmony (Miles Davis, Bill Evans, . . .), melody (John Coletrane, Eric Dolphy, . . .) and song structure in general (Ornette Coleman, Cecil Taylor, . . .). 4/4 and 3/4 time signatures were already optional in contemporary classical music and some ethic music. Brubeck opened up this fertile opportunity for the jazz world (and later rock like Led Zeppelin, Jethro Tull and Rush). Perhaps more remarkable was the fact that this album proved that the public was receptive to this new approach to popular music. Brubeck went pioneering and returned with no lethal arrows in him.

The best part about this album is that this new technique was not just a novelty; it was a path to creating timeless compositions like Take Five and Blue Turk a la Rondo. My favorite things about Brubeck are his range of expression (from cool and understated to highly muscular), and the unique voice of Paul Desmond's saxophone. Desmond's instrument has the bird-like sweetness of Charlie Parker combined with the lazer-focused tone of John Coletrane. The alternating solo voices really injects life and breath into the group.

The use of different time signatures did not did not get embraced as widely as one might expect in a genre built on creativity. Some felt that odd time signatures did not "swing" (although Brubeck and others disproved that), some may not have felt comfortable with or inspired by this new approach, and I suspect that the distinctiveness of this contribution by a white man made it "uncool" among many jazz musicians to do something that sounded "like Brubeck". The happy side effect for Brubeck is that this album stands out in jazz like few other works.

5 out of 5 stars Time out....Dave Brubeck Quartet.......2007-06-01

A clear jazz master piece......remastered by Sony....better than the originaland better than todays Brubeck Quartet

5 out of 5 stars Brubeck in SACD...heaven.......2007-05-17

Sony/Columbia did this superb sounding disc very well in this SACD transfer! This rivals the original edition Lp for lovely sound, and I think it is among the best single layer SACD's out there (Mingus ah um is THE best to these ears!). You know (or should know) the music, so don't hesitate getting it on SACD! I should add I am not into 5.1 for music. My sound review refers only to 2 channel stereo sound.
Three Easy Pieces
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Strong return for BT
  • Please enter a title for your review
  • Worth the wait
 Three Easy Pieces
Buffalo Tom
Manufacturer: New West Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Easy Tiger
  2. Sky Blue Sky
  3. Time on Earth
  4. New Moon
  5. Beyond

ASIN: B000Q6ZH2E
Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

  1. Bad Phone Call
  2. Three Easy Pieces
  3. You'll Never Catch Him
  4. Bottom of the Rain
  5. Lost Downtown
  6. Renovating
  7. Good Girl
  8. Pendleton
  9. Gravity
  10. Hearts of Palm
  11. September Shirt
  12. CC and Callas
  13. Thrown

Amazon.com

Ever wonder what happened to Buffalo Tom, the seminal Boston trio whose early-'90s songs were splashed about alternative radio and MTV? They're back, and one spin of their first record since 1998's Smitten gives the impression that they never left and that a decade has gone by faster than a Tom Maginnis drumroll. The melodies still rumble with elegance. The choruses are instantly unforgettable. And the band's original members--Maginnis, Bill Janovitz (guitar/vocals), and Chris Colbourn (bass/vocals)--remain intact and chillingly in synch. While it might be apropos to say they have matured with age, as all three have seen 40 pass them by, the angst and innocence of these 13 songs could easily have come blasting out of 1992. Rockers "September Shirt," "Bottom of the Rain," and "Good Girl" surely entice, but it's the power-poppiness of "Renovating" and "CC and Callas" (both sung by the underrated Colbourn) that drift back to the band's staples like "Taillights Fade" and "Mineral." Add to that canon the radiant melody of "You'll Never Catch Him," where Janovitz's gravelly tenor complements a radiant hook that, together, recapture the brilliance of this essential American band. --Scott Holter

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Strong return for BT.......2007-07-13

This is a band that has had strong effort after strong effort in its long musical career. It is quite mind boggling why this band never "made it" (pros and cons of "making it" not to be debated).

Three Easy Pieces is everything a Buffalo Tom album should be, if you are a fan of thier poppier and mellower albums. Bill Janovitz and Chris Colbourn's vocals and lyrics are as catchy as ever. Lost Downtown and Throw are classic BT work that you'll find yourself singing to yourself or outloud.

Long time fans should enjoy this one as much as I did and newer listeners should give it a whirl....it's worth hearing the complete work rather than a download of just a few tracks.

3 out of 5 stars Please enter a title for your review.......2007-07-13

another waste of time reunion just like Dinosaur Jr's. just like J Mascis And The Fog's Free So Free was a better album than Beyond, Bill Janovitz And Crown Victoria's Fireworks On TV was a much better album than this.

5 out of 5 stars Worth the wait.......2007-07-11

Three Easy Pieces sounds exactly like what you would hope a new Buffalo Tom album would sound like. Though it's reminiscent of the band's earlier work, it continues the steady maturity the group has displayed on its progression of albums. This growing maturity, however, does not require sacrificing hook-laden songs that reverberate in your brain long after they have stopped playing.
Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Is it bad to say I like this better than the original soundtrack?
  • Absolutely Exquisite
  • Yo Yo Ma and the Maestro Marvelous!!!
  • Better Every Time
  • Fabulous CD
 Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. The Mission: Original Soundtrack From The Motion Picture
  2. The Essential Yo-Yo Ma
  3. Obrigado Brazil
  4. Appassionato
  5. Vivaldi's Cello

ASIN: B0002YCVXI
Release Date: 2004-09-28

Tracks:

  1. The Mission: Gabriel's Oboe
  2. The Mission: The Falls
  3. Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: Playing Love from The Legend of 1900
  4. Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: Nostalgia from Cinema Paradiso
  5. Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: Looking for You (Love Theme) from Cinema Paradiso
  6. Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: Malena (Main theme)
  7. Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: Remembering (Ricordare)*
  8. Sergio Leone Suite: Deborah's Theme from Once Upon A Time In America
  9. Sergio Leone Suite: Cockeye's Song from Once Upon a Time in America
  10. Sergio Leone Suite: Main Theme from Once Upon a Time in America
  11. Sergio Leone Suite: Main Theme from Once Upon a Time in the West
  12. Sergio Leone Suite: Ecstasy of Gold from The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
  13. Brian DePalma Suite: Main Theme from Casualities of War
  14. Brian DePalma Suite: Death Theme from The Untouchables
  15. Moses and Marco Polo Suite: Journey from Moses
  16. Moses and Marco Polo Suite: Theme from Moses
  17. Moses and Marco Polo Suite: Main Theme from Marco Polo
  18. The Lady Caliph: Dinner
  19. The Lady Caliph: Nocturne

Amazon.com

Ennio Morricone is well-known to moviegoers. His soundtracks for The Mission, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Once Upon a Time in America, Cinema Paradiso, and others are invariably warmly melodic and superbly suited to the films they grace. They not only add atmosphere; they help tell the story. For this CD Morricone has created new orchestrations for many of his scores, adding a solo cello part for the indefatigable Yo-Yo Ma, whose musical curiosity seems to be endless. Outside the films, these pieces tend to be lovely melodies, mostly pretty sentimental stuff, and, in the best way, gorgeous aural wallpaper. The most moving are the two selections from The Mission, but fans of Morricone's music will find plenty to enjoy here. Ma's playing, as always, is exquisite---warm, deeply felt (given the circumstances), and entirely idiomatic within the context. Perhaps not quite for the classical music lover, but an affectionate reworking of music by an important film composer. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Is it bad to say I like this better than the original soundtrack?.......2007-06-02

I never thought Yo-Yo Ma would do Gabriel's Oboe (Track 1) from THE MISSION justice, but I was wrong. There's a pureness to this version that makes it easier casual listening than the version(s) on the soundtrack CD itself. So no matter how much I love the theatrical "largeness" of the Original Soundtrack (not to mention the full choir), this is the version I grab for the CD player/iPod/whatever.

My two other recommendations are Main Theme from ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST (Track 11) and Ecstasy of Gold from THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY (Track 12). I suggest playing these consecutively as a single medley. Track 11 *WILL* bring tears to the manliest among us --particularly if you remember in the movie where Sergio Leone pulls the camera up to reveal the town rising.

I get the feeling "hardcore" classical fans would dismiss movie scores as commercial work. I truly believe Ennio Morricone transcends that. Even moreso than, say, John Williams, and on a different plane than a Danny Elfman. And I can't say more about the emotion Yo-Yo Ma brings to the table than what's already been discussed.

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely Exquisite.......2007-05-15

The combination of Morricone and Ma is pure perfection. This CD fills my heart with so much joy that I could just cry. I listen to it almost daily and have given it away as a gift to my loved ones. I am captivated by their incredible talents, and I know you will be too.

4 out of 5 stars Yo Yo Ma and the Maestro Marvelous!!!.......2007-05-13

Having recently succumbed to Yo Yo Ma after a longtime love of Ennio Marricone I was excited to get this CD from Amazon. It is superb! All of the songs had to be recrafted by Morricone to suit Yo Yo Ma but it is a great listen as you sonically travel down memory lane through some of Maestro Moricone's musical marvels. "Gabriel's Oboe" from "The Mission" now becomes "Gabriel's Cello." I laugh as Yo Yo Ma bows his brains out on the "Ecstacy of Gold' from "The Good,The Bad, and The Ugly." I recommend this to all Yo Yo Ma and Morricone fans...a great listen. Soothing after a hard day!

5 out of 5 stars Better Every Time.......2007-05-09

This CD gets better with every listening. It was a great purchase.

5 out of 5 stars Fabulous CD.......2007-05-07

I love Morricone and this CD has some of the best versions of my favorite pieces. I have ordered several as gifts for friends.
West Side Story
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • WSS Original Sdtrk.
  • west side story music
  • West Side Story CD
  • LOVE it
  • Buy it for posterity
 West Side Story

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. West Side Story (Special Edition DVD Collector's Set)
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  3. South Pacific (1958 Film Soundtrack)
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  5. My Fair Lady (1964 Film Soundtrack)

ASIN: B00023GGK8
Release Date: 2004-05-18

Tracks:

  1. Overture
  2. Prologue
  3. Jet Song
  4. Something's Coming
  5. Dance At The Gym
  6. Maria
  7. America
  8. Tonight
  9. Gee, Officer Krupke
  10. Intermission Music
  11. I Feel Pretty
  12. One Hand, One Heart
  13. Quintet
  14. The Rumble
  15. Somewhere
  16. Cool
  17. A Boy Like That/I Have A Love
  18. Finale
  19. End Credits

Amazon.com

Leonard Bernstein's musical update of Romeo and Juliet, with a young Stephen Sondheim's brilliant lyrics, had already galvanized Broadway with its vivid reinvention as a parable of racial intolerance and generational conflict. But director Robert Wise's lavish widescreen presentation broke fresh ground by taking the story to its most impressionable audience, the teenagers who could identify directly with Tony and Maria, and opened up Jerome Robbins's kinetic choreography through bravura camera work. The original soundtrack album was not merely a huge seller but a unique touchstone for an otherwise rock-oriented audience, and its release on CD benefits from an expanded program untenable in its initial LP release, as well as a 20-bit digital transfer. With Richard Beymer, Marni Nixon (Hollywood's vocal doppelgänger of choice, here standing in for Natalie Wood), and Rita Moreno dominating, the show's bounty of terrific songs and exciting instrumental pieces remains an ear-filling treat, mixing operatic passions, tart social commentary, and high comedy. From "Tonight" to "One Hand, One Heart," "America" to "Jet Song," this is a landmark in American musical theatre and film beautifully realized on disc. --Sam Sutherland

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars WSS Original Sdtrk........2007-06-11

I ordered the West Side Story cd and it came in excellent condition. it was sealed and everything and if i find anything else to buy from this seller, i will.

5 out of 5 stars west side story music.......2007-04-14

C.D. in excellent condition, arrived soon after order. OH! Played at full volume--made me long to see the movie again. May just do that. The other reviewers complimented the movie orchestration and sound track--they were right.Nothing like Leonard Bernstein, Marnie Nixon, et.al.

5 out of 5 stars West Side Story CD.......2007-01-24

Great music. Just like I remembered it... but even better. Very lively, great instrumentals, and wonderful voices.

5 out of 5 stars LOVE it.......2007-01-09

This is my favorite musical and I love being able to rip it and have it on my MP3 for car listening.

3 out of 5 stars Buy it for posterity.......2006-12-30

Yes, this is the movie version and is an important part of 1960s pop culture, but it pales in comparison to the Broadway Cast. The sound quality is sub-par, and the voices are nowhere near as strong as the 1957 Cast. The movie also cuts some important music, or rewoks the score until it is completely different from the original. The order was also changed from the original show, and it is hard to listen to for someone that is familiar with the original. Overall, 1957 cast over this one, but buy it for the memories if you must.
2Pac - Greatest Hits
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • good intro
  • Every track is excellent, but there are some Missing
  • 2 Pac Forever
  • Pac's Life
  • Oh My God
 2Pac - Greatest Hits
2Pac
Manufacturer: Interscope Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. All Eyez on Me
  2. Life After Death
  3. The Chronic
  4. 2001
  5. Me Against the World

ASIN: B00000FCBH
Release Date: 1998-11-24

Tracks:

  1. Keep Ya Head Up
  2. 2 Of Amerikaz Most Wanted
  3. Temptations
  4. God Bless The Dead
  5. Hail Mary
  6. Me Against The World
  7. How Do U Want It
  8. So Many Tears
  9. Unconditional Love
  10. Trapped
  11. Life Goes On
  12. Hit 'Em Up

Tracks:

  1. Troublesome 96'
  2. Brenda's Got A Baby
  3. I Ain't Mad at Cha - Danny Boy
  4. I Get Around
  5. Changes
  6. California Love (Original Version)
  7. Picture Me Rollin'
  8. How Long Will They Mourn Me?
  9. Toss It Up
  10. Dear Mama
  11. All About U
  12. To Live & Die In L.A.
  13. Heartz Of Men

Amazon.com

An indispensable and definitive collection showcasing the passionate genius of the late rapper. The album's nonchronological sequence highlights the contradictory impulses that made Tupac's music so commanding; the 21 well-loved "hits," some slightly reedited for legal reasons, are accompanied by four previously unheard songs. Of the new material, the raw-sounding "God Bless the Dead" has been the subject of the most speculation, owing to its subject matter: a eulogizing of the late Notorious B.I.G.--a mysterious feat, since Tupac was killed six months before Biggie. And, making its first proper appearance on a Tupac album, the B-side "Hit 'Em Up" stands as the most intense outburst of pure venomous rage ever captured on tape. Whether he's waxing political, philosophical, or just plain paranoid, Tupac's empathetic, charismatic style remains unmatched. --Charley Gothic

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars good intro.......2007-04-24

if you don't have any 2pac albums, this is a perfect start. The songs are very close to what I would have picked for a greatest hits.
If you really like 2pac and rap, I would say skip this and buy each of his cd's instead. There still is some great material from him not on this CD

5 out of 5 stars Every track is excellent, but there are some Missing.......2007-04-10

Bad things don't exist on this album, every trakc is Pac at his finest. However there are so many more that should be on here, like Pain (which was omitted from Above The Rim and can't be found anywhere), F*ck The World, Pour Out A Little Liquor, and tons more!!! But yes the music is all amazing with my favourite tracks being
Disc 1:
1. Keep Ya Head Up - Incredible way to start the album
2. God Bless The Dead - Whether its about Notorious B.I.G. or not the song is amazing with a very creepy beat
3. Me Against The World - Very introspective
4. So Many Tears - Pac's darkest song ever
5. Hit Em Up - All my god!!! Calling this a classic diss to me is an understatement, even those other dudes ripped Bad Boy. By far the greatest diss song ever

Disc 2:
1. Brenda's Got A Baby - Was this a true story? on the music video that was on my resurrection DVD it said "Based on a true story" but someone else say it was made up. Well its a great song anyway
2. I Ain't Mad At Cha - Amazing Daz production and lyrics
3. Changes - Another very introspective track with a fantastic piano beat
4. Dear Mama - My absolute favourite Pac song ever!!! As you know, one of the reasons why many consider Pac the best rapper ever is because no one else could make a song like this. Look at 21 Questions by 50 Cent for example, he just sounds corny, this song is genious
5. Heartz Of Men - Some prime Pac lyricism with an excellent DJ Quik beat

Peace and Rest in peace to

Tupac Amaru Shakur: 1971-1996 (We all miss ya)

5 out of 5 stars 2 Pac Forever.......2007-04-04

This CD has to be a part of your collection if you dare to call yourself a Tupac fan. Tupac Shakur is not easily dismissed when it comes to music of the century. Yeah I said music, not just "rap" music. Music is felt and moves the listener, putting it in a category is not what qualifies it. Nothin but Cali Love for my homie !!!!!!! For all you haters, listen and learn how its done on the real.

5 out of 5 stars Pac's Life.......2007-02-07

Tupac Shakur 1971-1996 was one of the pioneers for West Coast Gangsta Rap in the 90's and despite being a fantastic MC he got just as much time in the spotlight for his lifestyle, cocky attitute, controvercial behavior, problems with the law and later his premature death. Many of his early songs were thugish gangsta anthems with explicit lyrics and at times it felt like Pac got trapped under that particular charachter, but that's only one side of the story. He portaited an ideal of a young stuggling black male with a troubled past that wouldn't get away from him. From time to time there were also songs that dealt with deeper subject like unwanted pregnancy of a young girl on "Brenda's Got a Baby" Friendship "If My Home Calls", Respect For Women on "Keep Ya Head Up" and premature deaths of homies on "Life Goes On". Tupac's versability and undpredictable behavior was fascinating and his sometimes very emotional sides aswell. He was far from the one-dimensional thug as the media wanted to make him. However, after two successful solo albums Tupac was sent to jail after sexual assault on a fan. While in Jail he started reflecting over his life and eventually his third album was penned, "Me Against the World" a very deep, serious and sincere album. Songs like, the title track, "If I Die 2 Nite", "Tempations", "So Many Tears" and ofcourse the touching tribute to his mother "Dear Mama". It debuted at #1 on the album charts making Tupac the first artist in Prison to top the charts. Perhaps it was also his greatest album too. Some fans however, didn't apreciate the changed Tupac and when his forth album "All Eyez On Me" was finally released it was a back 2 back album that mostly dealt with issues that made 2pac a star back in the day. It was a huge commercial success with hits like the westcoast anthem "California Love", "How Do You Want It" "I Ain't Mad At Cha" and "Heartz of Men". It was also the first ever double album in Hip Hop, making it an even bigger ambition. He also enjoyed great success with acting, other then starring against Janet Jackson in "Poetic Justice" in 1993, he was also making a few films later on. Sadly Tupac was shot to death in a drive by shooting in September 1996 and this ultimately led to an even bigger legacy of an Hip Hop soldier dying as an martyr, and rumours started popping up that he wasn't really dead, Considering there was and still is loads on unreleased material. And who killed Tupac, was it Suge Knight that was scared he would abandon his label? or was it a vendetta from East Coast Rappers?, or was it an old feud from somewhere else?. When Tupac died he was probably the greatest rapper alive, both enormously popular, controvercial and equally good writer and MC. He did use alot of samples to his music though and his lifestyle was a contributing factor to his legacy but he was a magnificient artist that sadly left us too soon. Like some people mentioned, this "Greeatest Hits" collection was released by Death Row and some minor hits weren't included, however you get most of the important hits and with 25 songs on this doubles album you shouldn't be dissapointed. Remember, 2pac was a very productive musician and released countless of singles and having them all included would make this album too long. Overall, Great Collection that captures his best moments. Rest In Peace.

5 out of 5 stars Oh My God.......2006-12-20

Thomas E Burn's comment was the most ignorant thing i've ever heard in my life. [...] who do you think gives a [...] about your worthless opinion? That's the problem with amazon, its open for losers like this guy to post completely useless opinions. How many people do you think there are on this site who actually agree with you? You seriously don't know how silly you look with a review (if you call it that)like that. No one cares if you don't like it but don't come on here and write a pathetic review that we just laugh at.

Wow I loved this album. Just got all the essentials, I didn't own any of 2pac's records before i got this, but now i am a massive fan. They don't call it greatest hits for nothing!!! I love every track, the man was a friggin genious. He really did a great job with his music, every song you get something different. I could honestly listen to this all day. Picking my favourite is very hard but i'd have to say Dear Mama, he made songs everyone could relate to,it was just amazing. Don't sleep on this one, highly HIGHLY recommended.
Birth of the Cool
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Legendary Cool Jazz, One Awesome Debut!
  • birth of the cool school...
  • A must have for your collection
  • Good not Great
  • labor of love
 Birth of the Cool
Miles Davis
Manufacturer: Blue Note Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Kind of Blue
  2. A Love Supreme
  3. Sketches of Spain
  4. 'Round About Midnight
  5. Mingus Ah Um

ASIN: B00005614M
Release Date: 2001-01-09

Tracks:

  1. Move
  2. Jeru
  3. Moon Dreams
  4. Venus De Milo
  5. Budo
  6. Deception
  7. Godchild
  8. Boplicity
  9. Rocker
  10. Israel
  11. Rouge
  12. Darn That Dream

Amazon.com essential recording

The first important leader date from one of jazz's most seminal figures and farsighted practitioners. Having made his reputation in large measure from playing with bop giant Charlie Parker, Davis confounded expectations when he embraced the "cool" arranging style of Gil Evans, an arranger for Claude Thornhill's band. Evans, who was employing unique voicings by adding French horns and tuba to Thornhill's instrumentations, also emphasized a diminished use of vibrato in both reeds and brass, producing a drier, "cool" sound. Two of Evans's arrangements, "Boplicity" and "Moon Dreams," appear on the album. Also involved are baritone saxophonist Gerry Mulligan, who contributed such outstanding tunes as "Jeru" and "Venus de Milo," and Modern Jazz Quartet pianist John Lewis. The result is a date that has withstood the tests of time, fashion, and Davis's own extraordinary growth as a performer.

An enhanced set, The Complete Birth of the Cool features previously bootlegged live recordings of the nonet at the Royal Roost in New York in 1948. Although the sound quality is far from perfect, the performances are remarkable, and worth the additional expense for the serious fan. --Fred Goodman

Amazon.com

Birth of the Cool is the first important leader date from Miles Davis, one of jazz's most seminal figures and farsighted practitioners. Having made his reputation in large measure from playing with bop giant Charlie Parker, Davis confounded expectations when he embraced the "cool" arranging style of Gil Evans, an arranger for Claude Thornhill's band. Evans, who was employing unique voicings by adding French horns and tuba to Thornhill's instrumentations, also emphasized a diminished use of vibrato in both reeds and brass, producing a drier, "cool" sound. Two of Evans's arrangements, "Boplicity" and "Moon Dreams," appear on the album. Also involved are baritone saxophonist Gerry Mulligan, who contributed such outstanding tunes as "Jeru" and "Venus de Milo," and Modern Jazz Quartet pianist John Lewis. The result is a date that has withstood the tests of time, fashion, and Davis's own extraordinary growth as a performer. An enhanced set, The Complete Birth of the Cool, expands the original issue with previously bootlegged live recordings of Davis's nonet at the Royal Roost in New York in 1948. Although the sound quality is far from perfect, the performances are remarkable, and worth the additional expense for the serious fan. --Fred Goodman

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Legendary Cool Jazz, One Awesome Debut!.......2007-06-27

The songs on The Birth of the Cool are like the ninja of old. They do what they need to, fast, and leave. But unlike ninja attacks, these songs (which include classics like "Jeru", "Venus de Milo" and "Boplicity") are not painful in the least. The arrangements are tight and the songs are melodic, slightly Hollywood-esque but quite beautiful and well-performed. The songs themselves are also quite brief, as I implied a few sentence back - nothing over five minutes, in fact. The nonet plays together quite well, complementing each other throughout. They all have the mellow sound down - the album kinda sounds alike, but with great songs like "Rogue", "Rocker" and "Israel" on hand, who can complain? Now the only song I don't really like is "Darn That Dream", which falls in my list of Ten Songs We've All Heard Too Many Times Before. As for the rest? Get it. Not before Kind of Blue, 'Round about Midnight or In a Silent Way, but still get it!

5 out of 5 stars birth of the cool school..........2007-06-20

can't go wrong with this Miles Davis recording in your collection. With arrangements by Gerry Mulligan, Gil Evans and John Lewis this is a compilation of 12 sides recorded by the Miles Davis nonet(nine musicians). This legendary recording is a jazz classic. The music moves away from bepop which tended to smaller groups of musicians and the music from this compilation led to the birth of the cool West Coast Sound of jazz though it originated on the East Coast. Beautiful arrangements and lively tunes. Gil Evans would meet with musicians in his apartment on the top of Chinese laundry and help compose the arrangements. The list of musicians on these recordings includes Miles Davis on trumpet, Gerry Mulligan on baritone sax, Lee Konitz alto sax, Max Roach on drums. A must for any jazz collection and jazz beginner. Gil Evans would later team with Miles on Porgy and Bess, Sketches of Spain.

3 out of 5 stars A must have for your collection.......2007-03-27

These recordings are a must have for an understanding of the shear evolution of jazz, but not the best.

3 out of 5 stars Good not Great.......2007-03-14

There a few good songs on the ablum but it isn't great

5 out of 5 stars labor of love.......2007-02-16

Having only recently jumped on the Jazz scene as a 24 year veteran of the drum, i don't know as if i am qualified to write a review for those into this boat, but i must say that as a neophyte, i am and will be for a long time to come, a Davis fan. And this, the birth of the cool is an album that i will treasure as one of my own. very smooth sounds, breathy on the horns and completely listenable, a must have for any burgeoning collection.

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