title: An explosion of noise and energy

text:
The "Love Uncut" EP is a brief collaboration between COH (Ivan Pavlov) and members of Coil.  It's definitely a showcase of the more aggressive side of Ivan's work, featuring his trademark edgy, distorted, rhythmic clicks and buzzes as well as Jhonn Balance's manic, abrasive vocals.  The aggression on this album is more of a virile, life-affirming kind than anything remotely dark.

Each track on this EP is fairly different.  "My Angel (Director's Cut)" is classic COH.  A soft, pulsing rhythm is soon overtaken by a rising, agitated buzz.  Unfortunately, Christopherson's vocals seem to make the track feel rather disorganized at points.  "Fffetish" is the record's weak spot, composed entirely out of a looped, unchanging monotonous pulse.  Jhonn's screaming of "You are my fetish!" keeps it from attaining any hypnotic qualities it might have had.  All in all the track has aggression, but little else.  "Prayer for Russell" recalls Coil's drone albums (see "[[ASIN:B000050ZKR Constant Shallowness Leads]]" for tracks that sound like this), and manages to retain most of the good qualities those had.  The final track, "Health and Deficiency" utilizes a lot of unsettling, heavily processed and layered vocals that remind me a little of "Red Skeletons" from Coil's "[[ASIN:B000006ZD5 Black Light District: A Thousand Lights in a Darkened Room]]".

Not even the successful tracks really contain that many ideas, so in the end my conclusion is that this EP feels fairly rushed and scatterbrained, but has a remarkable virility to it that makes it quite enjoyable to listen to.  It's not worth paying any high price to find, but it should be enjoyable for fans of either Coil or COH.  3.75 stars, rounded up.


title: The closest we'll ever get to a Coil / Stapleton collaboration

text:
For those who don't know, this isn't a pure Nurse With Wound album:  Cyclobe (Steven Thrower and Ossian Brown, who both worked with Coil but were never core members) created this from source material created by Steven Stapleton, which I have not heard in its original form (though there a few sounds that must have been taken directly from it, unaltered, as they also appear on the first "Angry Eelectric Finger").  This unique process results in the closest thing that will ever exist to a combination between the astral ambience of Coil and the deranged surrealism of Nurse With Wound.

Forgetting for a moment about who made what, "Paraparaparalellogrammatica" feels like a loosely organized, moody, evocative and mostly ambient record, broken up by bits of explosive noise in true Stapleton fashion.  There is a neon, psychedelic wildness to this music that fits the cover art perfectly.  It feels like being in an enclosed, darkened space as glowing, colorful objects float all around you.

90% of the sound is synthetic analog squalls and drones, but as the album progresses, new sounds arise out of the thick darkness... saxophones, voices, odd rattles and squeaks.  Melody is used rarely and yet tastefully; tracks progress slowly but do not loop, and never become too minimal.  The album takes its time to unfold, becoming deeper and more interesting with each passing track until the nausea inducing evil of "Part 4" and the cold, empty stillness of "Part 5".  The album ends with a thoughtful, pretty, and nearly happy  piano melody... a perfect dramatic flourish.

The production is definitely shy of the spacially immersive brilliance found on most Coil records, and that is the lone downfall of this album, the one thing that keeps it from being a completely mind-altering experience.  One also gets the feeling, occasionally, that the project wasn't taken as seriously as it could have been, and that the drama and power of the compositions could have been improved by tightening up the organization and flow of these pieces, especially in the first half of the album.

Overall, "Paraparaparallelogrammatica" is one of the better Nurse With Wound releases, and is recommended to any fan of Coil or Nurse With Wound, as well as beginners to Stapleton's work... the atmosphere of this album is intense and palpable, and much less confusing than a large portion of the NWW discography.  For $9.99 paid download, you can't go wrong.


I bought this album/cassette in 1970. I very much liked it for it's avant garde influence of Tom Neme. Many of Seeger's fans remember him for the Silver Bullet days of the late 70's only.  This is a very different type of musical approach that Seeger took in the late 60's. I would very much like to pick it up on CD, but $42 for a $7 CD is rape. $$$$ = no sale.


title: Prog at its best

text: Tull like many of the original prog bands all had a unique sound.No one sounded like Tull and the music has held up like a fine wine.


title: Classic Yes

text: Order came in on time, no issues


title: A quirky, beautiful, diverse, symphonic and poppy-rocky-proggy Music Cube

text:
Mike Batt's music really grabbed me back in the late seventies and early eighties, and here I sit with this magic cube in my hands, listening to Six Days In Berlin again after all these years (I sold all my LP's in 1982 to get enough money to go to a music festival...) And what can I say? Damn it's great! My real favorite though is Zero Zero. I have not listened to that one for decades, and have never watched the TV production... I just know I'll love it, so now I'll pour myself a big glass of red wine, put it on and... let my ears smile and my eyes twinkle!

Edit: Thank you, Mr. Batt, for being wild enough to go Hunting the Snark! The Royal Albert Hall performence is absolutely fantastic. Good luck with any future plans for this one; I'll certenly try to be there if it comes to life again. What a pleasant surprise it was!


title: IF YOU LIKE FUNKADLELIC AND PARLEMENT...

text: ...then you gotta have this. It's such a shame to see these great collection for OOP so fast....glad I got one...


title: IT'S OK....

text: There have been numerous BBCs since the millennium, some great, some with the sound quality of late being wrecked, most notably the Rolling Stones on Air. This has a little hiss from excessive treble and high mid distortion, but at least it's not totally destroyed by some kind of computer processing and noise reduction. It's fairly easy to clean up a bit with an equalizer. It's not a paradise but it's better than some being put out by the big labels.


title: IT'S OK BUT DOES NOT QUITE LIVE UP TO THE LEGEND...

text:
By the way, this is still available from Zappa's site. Go to media, type in title. I guess he still has the rights.

It's OK, but it's a little under-produced and the liner notes hint around the band was under-rehearsed and sometimes didn't quite understand his weird rhythms. But it's an OK addition, but all his other LPs are really better...


title: MORE LIKE LIVE IN THE 80S.....

text: These tracks are mostly from 80s re-broadcasts from FM, TV, and VHS bootlegs (or youtube). I have some of this in better quality on tape, some not, and some are a few surprises. There was even a cut or two from the famous Black Animals bootleg LP (very rare) in a little better quality. Overall, considering the sources used, most should have been better sound quality. Some of the BBC tracks are taken from a 80s radio broadcast called Sixties at the Beeb. It's a great radio show that features many artists and is well worth tracking down even though more have been released. However, the Animals segment on that show comprises a full 60 minutes, most of which has not been released to date in any decent sound quality. But this OK, just OK.


title: ARE YOU LISTENING TO MORE BUT ENJOYING IT LESS? DESERVES BETTER, MAYBE SOME CENTURY…..

text:
There have been plenty of BBC sessions released since the millennium that are fine,  but as the century progresses, the sound quality gets worse and worse. The bootleggers do a better job, then, now and in the future I’m sure.

The problem with this is it contains high midrange distortion that should not be there. The original sound of these recording has been altered thru bad mastering. Some of these have been released in decent quality, like on the Raven issues and as bonus tracks on the Mono Animalism CD.

I use an equalizer. I can improve these tracks somewhat and make them less annoying to the ears, but it’s gone too far to eliminate the noise completely. This isn’t quite as bad as the Rolling Stones On Air, but it’s getting close, hence the 2 stars and not the one.

I write a lot about sound quality. It seems a large portion of the CD listening public is either hard of hearing, have no idea what proper sound is, or are using such horrible sound systems like Bluetooth computer speakers, that they can’t actually hear sound quality at all.

The one positive: it’s good to know this much more material exists in the archive that needs a proper release. There’s a lot here I’ve never heard.

The negative: Too bad it’s in the wrong hands to release it properly. Eric released some himself, he should release it all again in the same sound as on the Raven issues…

Frankly, I’m getting tired of the epidemic of bad sound.


title: A GREAT CONCEPT, DESERVES BETTER

text:
First the positive points. A number of tracks are making their CD debut here in mono: That Ain't Where Its At, St James Infirmary, Year of the Guru, and a track I didn’t know existed called In The Night. A couple of tracks that were in monoed out fake stereo with an unnatural echo on the Repertoire issue have been corrected here. Also, this mono mix of Sky Pilot is different than one on the Repertoire issue of Twain Shall Meet. This mono mix has an echo on the vocals not on the (assumed) British mono mix, and this echo version was also issued as a single in the USA on the MGM label. It is the definitive version, as far as I’m concerned. I’ve waited a long time for this mix.

It’s a great concept cd. I didn’t know the French Ep and singles were a genre all their own; Also, some of the mono mixes may be alternate mono mixes that are slightly different from other releases.

Now the negative: the CD says “Mastered in High Definition, 96k.” What on earth does this mean? Frankly, the sound is not that great. It just appears that the frequencies are all driven up into the RED. There is a lot of low midrange noise that really does not need to be there, and plenty of other issues have much better sound, most notable Repertoire and Raven issues.

But gratefully, I use, and know how to use an equalizer. I can clean up a lot of the noise. Also, once the noise is cleaned up, the sound is decent, but not really a paradise. You will get to hear some Animals that sound more authentically analogue and some never before heard mixes on CD. I’m not sorry I bought it, but only because I know how to use an equalizer. And Frankly, I’ve read enough reviews of awful sounding CDs which were praised by reviewers, so I’m sure more than a few people will think this is outstanding. But I wouldn’t want it without an equalizer and knowing what I’m doing.


title: STOP DOING THIS!!!!!

text: Once again, some kind of noise reduction has been used on this. Go do some comparative listening, these tracks are not rare. Most, if not all, are available in much better sound quality…..This was put out by Motown/Universal. Motown used this type of noise reduction on their Singles Box to great detriment. A few people even noticed it if you dig in the reviews. They clearly know what they are doing, as it was NOT used on the Cellarful of Motown series, thank heavens. …..I hope this is not some kind of trend….what are the people thinking that put this stuff out? I am going to keep reporting this until it stops….Some people can actually hear what they are listening to….


title: MORE DEEP DISCO YOU'VE NEVER HEARD

text:
Private Wax here means labels that only put out one or two songs, or maybe a few more. So most of these have not been heard by human ears.  While a great lineup of picks, I think this one was not quite as enjoyable as Deep Disco and Boogie (ohh, appears to be OOP, as of last week), Deep Disco Culture Vol. 2 (I am still seeking out Vol. 1 or for it back it print, hey, Zaf!), but all in all, if you want decently musical quality disco you have never heard, this is one for you.

I dropped it one star just coz the music is as not as thrilling as some others. But the main reason is the jacket. It may not be a big deal to some, but I find the jacket to be very important  to the presentation of a quality compilation A compilation CD is a work of art. I mean, do want to drink a fine wine out of a coffee mug? It's still fine wine, right? I don't think so. I'd like a real glass please. The jacket is thin and the disk slides front-wise across laminated cardboard. I liked the jacket and plastic hub of Deep Disco and Boogie better.


title: IF YOU FOLLOW THE HISTORY OF THE BASS...

text:
Whether it's Blanton, Pettiford,  Mingus, Lafarro,  Entwistle,  Graham, Lee, Pastorius, Miller, whatever, the bass on this CD is something that cannot be ignored. I cannot think of any CD where you get this much monster bass in one place. One of the most important releases ever.

OHhhh!! It's out of Print??? Hey, get this back in print!!!! On ZRs first CD of Soul of Disco, there is a warning about an `unjust form of stealing by copying' the CD. Well, guys, keeping the CD in print might help the cause....if you keep it out of print, you have no reason to complain when people copy what they want and cannot buy ...OK, there is a download of this available, but I think that is contributing to another problem all together...go read my review of Deep Disco and Boogie....


title: Fantastic Taylor Scott

text: This guy is a guitar master, powerful picking and very creative. Fusion of rock, blues, funk and soul. All the band members very skilled too. This album is a gem, don't miss it.


title: Wow! Amazing!

text:
Hello!

This is the first Nine Inch Nails I have ever heard... and bought it because Adrian Belew is all over it. Since then I got a hold of The Slip and Still. I had seen their CDs around but never ventured to buy them...

Is the rest of their stuff so good?

Thanks!


title: VERY RARE

text: the only live versions of REMEBER THE future


title: Five Stars

text: Everything was fine. Thanks


title: Last really Blue Cheer like album they recorded, maybe their best.

text: Great album.


title: THANKS!!!

text: THANKS!!!


title: Finally!

text: Not sure how the Japanese get to release stuff like this but even with the cost involved I am so glad they did! Have wanted this B/N on CD for ever and now have it...and with a few bonus tracks to boot! The live stuff is interesting. I remember a friend coming over VERY excited about this record back when it was originally released just freaked right out about the thing! Loved this from the moment I dropped the needle on the vinyl. As huge as Fleetwood Mac got later it's a darn curiosity why this hasn't been available on CD before. Great music here!!

attachment_type: IMAGE


title: SW Worthy effort

text: Some may think SW carries on a bit too long with a musical idea and merely extends to take up time to sell suckers out there product...All I know is that for me when I like an artist I tend to like everything they put out. That may have  come about as habit from the days when we listened to vinyl, we always just listened to the entire thing every time it's turn came around on the turntable. Wilson has a truly amazing amount of work out there....mind blowing actually.  IEM would not be for the impatient or easily bored listener but if one likes anything else SW has put out then I'm thinking they would like this...hard telling not knowing but I love this stuff because even though it seems hastily put together to some I think it ALL just works. Real nice quality made box set...turn it up


title: Five Stars

text: OK


title: It's not too bad

text: Fullmoon's "United Evil" (I would use the full album title but my review probably wouldn't be published) is a rather short, but interesting, release. The band's playing style isn't conventional compared to other black metal bands, but it still has that certain "feel" if you know what I mean. Sadly, this is really a demo, and because of that, the prodcution is horrid, even for black metal. It really cuts into the power that the music could of possessed.


title: variation of music

text: personal pleasure,  love king crimson!!!!


title: Five Stars

text: Beautiful cd, all remastered. Loved it


title: Five Stars

text: all good


title: Noise!

text: Noisy punk-jazz from New York City, circa 1980. If you want something to drive unwanted guests out of the house, this will do it. This is not music. There are sounds of car engines being revved-up in the studio, chipmunks being chopped up in blenders, the guitarist chopping his instrument up with a chainsaw.... There's not a moment of melody on the whole CD -- but, weirdly, the two saxophonists can REALLY blow! The CD notes say an extra bonus track was added from the original album, taken from tapes that were somehow "damaged." How could they tell the difference?


title: A lost classic!

text: Found this album in a tiny used record store in Boise, Idaho way back in 1977 and it was well worth the $$$! Sort of a "kinder, gentler" Moody Blues album, the songs are gorgeous (especially "If We Were Wise," "Fantasy Fugue," "Neptune's Door"), and the closer ("Behold: A Solar Sonnet") is a cosmic rocker! Lots of beautiful group vocals, great poetic lyrics, excellent string arrangements. The production seems kind of thin, but the strong songs make up for it. Too bad these guys' 2nd album never got released....


title: Pure Crap

text: Terrible music.


title: Ken loves Vinyl offered by Amazon

text: Album cover and vinyl record were in great condition even though listed a good. Pleasant surprise !


title: GREAT MUSIC AND HEARTFELT MUSIC FOR HIS LOVE FOR JESUS !!!

text: HERE IS A HARD ISSUE TO FIND... VOLUME 1 IS NEARLY RECLUSE SO I'M THRILLED TO FIND THIS ONE !!  GREAT PRICE AND RARE FIND !!!


title: TRICK OR TREAT ???  A TRICK...

text: THIS WAS KOREAN SUPPOSED TO BE A IMPORT BUT WAS A REGULAR COPY... WIN SOME .. LOSS SOME ...<br />BUT I LOVEED THIS CD SO MUCH I KEPT IT AND PLAYED THE BALLS OFF IT  !!!


title: VERY HAPPY WITH THIS CD !!!

text: REAL NICE CD AND GREAT CONDITION !!! GREAT PRICE AND WELL HANDLING AND SHIPPING !!!


title: BEAUTIFUL MUSIC FOR JESUS  !!!

text: VERY NICE ALBUM OF SONGS AND SINGING... YOU WILL LOVE IT !!! I DO VERY MUCH !!!


title: LIVE AND ALIVE  IN JESUS !!!

text: GREAT LIVE ALBUM AND SOUNDS REALLY GOOD !!!


title: GOOD MUSIC AND GREAT SOUND QUALITY !!!!

text: A GREAT COLLECTION OF TUNES !!!! I LOVE IT !!! GREAT PRICES ALSO....


title: A GREAT ALBUM AND REALLY ROCKIN' MUSIC !!!

text:
A GREAT ALBUM WITH HIS BROTHERS AND ANOTHER HARD ROCKER... FANTASTIC MUSIC AND SOUND !!!
THESE GUYS WERE OPENED BY "STRIPPER"  IN CONCERT  ON TOUR .IN ..EUROPE FOR
 " LARRY'S WORLD TOUR CONCERT"
FOR ANYONE WHO KNOWS JESUS ROCK MUSIC ... THIS ONE IS IT !!!!!!


title: A GREAT TREASURE OF HIS VERY BEST !!!!

text: HERE IS LARRY AFTER YEARS OF PLAYING MUSIC FOR JESUS AND YOU WILL BE SURPRISED TO HEAR THIS CD !!!!


title: PRAISE THE LORD !!! BEAUTIFUL MUSIC TO YOU FROM LARRY...

text: GREAT MUSIC I LOVE SO MUCH !!! SINGING WITH HIS LOVE FOR JESUS !!!!


title: THESE TWO ARE GOD'S FAVORITES OF ALL TIME !!!

text: GREAT MUSIC FROM TWO OF THE " BEST OF THE BEST " IN JESUS MUSIC !!!  THESE TWO ARE JUST SO BLESSED TO GIVE US SUCH ENJOYABLE MUSIC... HEARTFELT.. FUNNY.. AND SERIOUS... GOD IS IN EVERY WORD THEY SING !!!


title: A MAN WITH GODS HEART... HIS MUSIC SPEAKS OF LOVE...

text: WONDERFUL MUSIC FROM A GREAT SINGER AND WRITER OF ALL TIMES  !!!!!


title: STILL HOT AND ROCKING IN STUDIO ....AND.....LIVE IN CONCERT THIS YEAR !!!!

text: GREAT TUNES FOR THE ROCK AND ROLLERS OF THE 70'S !!!  BUT DON'T FORGET HE HAS PUT OUT A NEW ALBUM ALMOST EVERY YEAR FOR THE PAST 10 OR MORE YEARS !!!  SO HES STILL HOT AND JAMMING LIKE HE WAS IN THE 70'S !!!!


title: GREAT CD ... BUY TODAY AND SEE IT ROCKS AND ROLLS !!!!!

text: A GREAT CONCERT AND THEY PALY HARD AND FAST AND LOAD... BUT ALWAYS PERFECT ELP !!!!


title: GREAT TRIBUTE BAND !!!!

text: GREATEST VERSION TO BEING REAL FLOYD YOU WILL EVER GET IN A TRIBUTE BAND !!!!


title: Five Stars

text: GREAT ALBUMS  !!!! THEY ARE AWESOME !!!  VERY RARE AND HARDER TO FIND NOW !!!


title: GREAT DEAL / GREAT PRICE / MINT CONDITION CD / ...

text: GREAT DEAL / GREAT PRICE / MINT CONDITION CD / JEWEL CASE & ART WORK !!!  LIGHTNING SPEED DELIVERY !!  PACKAGED IN GREAT SAFETY FORM...  I GIVE THEM A PERFECT 10 !!!!!


title: Five Stars

text: GREAT CD / FAST SHIPPING AND PACKAGING / PERFECT CD IN PERFECT SHAPE !!!! GREAT PRICE AND QUALITY !!!!


title: REALLY DIFFERENT AND EMERGING FROM ONE STYLE TO ANOTHER PERHAPS ...

text: REALLY DIFFERENT AND EMERGING FROM ONE STYLE TO ANOTHER PERHAPS WITH HIS BROTHERS HELP AND THE BAND MEMBERS... WORTH CHECKING OUT AND REALLY RARE TO FIND.


A GOOD IDEA FROM HIS THOUGHTS ON LIFE AND GOD !!!  CHECK IT OUT !!! IT JAMS AND ALSO IS SOFT IN OTHER SPOTS A SENSITIVITY TO GOD


WOW GREAT MUSIC AND WONDERFUL SONGS FROM HIS HEART, A GREAT SONG WRITER AND SINGER OF ALL TIME !!!! FAST SERVICE AND QUALITY ITEMS, ....MINT !!!


title: Five Stars

text: GREAT PRICE AND HARDER TO FIND ITEMS FROM THE 70'S...  A GREAT DEAL ... I LOVE THIS MUSIC !!!!


title: ... OUT LARRY ON THIS TAPE AND IT WAS REALLY NICE TO HEAR HIM LAUGH AND PLAY THE 6 STRING ...

text: HAD A CHANCE TO CHECK OUT LARRY ON THIS TAPE AND IT WAS REALLY NICE TO HEAR HIM LAUGH AND PLAY THE 6 STRING GUITAR LIVE !!!  IT WAS REALLY FUN AND I CLOSED MY EYES AND FELT AS IF I WAS THERE .... I MEAN REALLY THERE ... IT WAS SUPER  !!!  IF YOU CAN FIND IT GET IT BECAUSE THESE ITEMS ARE HARD TO FIND AND GETTING REALLY EXPENSIVE THE RARER THE OLD ISSUES BECOME... REMEMBER WERE TALKING 1970'S HERE !!!


title: GREAT TO HEAR IT AT A DIFFERENT TEMPO LIVE IN ...

text: GREAT TO HEAR IT AT A DIFFERENT TEMPO LIVE IN THE OLD DAYS ... IT WAS PURE AND UN EFFECTED BY TECHNOLOGY ... JUST PURE FLOYD AT ITS BEST . I LOVE IT !!!


title: Great re mix I ever heard..... light years ahead of his time !!!

text: Fantastic version of 1976 re mixed to the new era of sound and beats.. a real groove for anyone who loves Larry"s music ~~~ I love it !!!


title: Five Stars

text: A real Trip to check out!


title: Five Stars

text: Great CD in Mint Condition ...Fantastic Price and Service !!!


title: Five Stars

text: I love these songs


title: Five Stars

text: Fantastic !!!


title: Five Stars

text: Great Collection of Vintage Music for the Heart and Soul...


title: Five Stars

text: Great team work ... two greats play together... cannot get sweeter than this !!!


title: Four Stars

text: Thunder !!!


title: Five Stars

text: Another Great cd you may have over looked for your collection


title: A RARE TRESURE TO FIND BRINGING THE FOUR TOGTHER ONCE ...

text: A RARE TRESURE TO FIND BRINGING THE FOUR TOGTHER ONCE AGAIN FOR A KICK ASS CONCERT WHEN SO MANY THOUGHT THEY WERE TO OLD TO JAM !!!  THEY ROCK YOUR SOCKS OFF !!


title: GREAT TO FIND AN ISSUE FROM THE TIME OF THE ...

text: GREAT TO FIND AN ISSUE FROM THE TIME OF THE FILMORE DAYS... VERY DIFFERENT FROM ANY OTHER AND GREAT QUALITY CONCERT !!!


title: Five Stars

text: RARE TO FIND AND PRISTINE /NEW / AWSOME  CONCERTS FROM THE VAULT !!!


title: Mirage by Camel

text: Excellent composition throughout.<br />Outstanding musicians.


title: Five Stars

text: Love this music, Beautiful


title: Check out Dave on myspace and hear this yourself...

text:
Becaue you will be amazed and then you will just HAVE to find this rare gem like I did. Well it came in the post today and I can't stop listening to it. There is the title track "Looking Closer" for a breath taking opener. The songs range from pop songs that scream "HIT SINGLE" at you, from the heart jerking ballads like "Exiled" and "The Answer Must Be You".
I came off really loving all the songs, currently playing over and over is "Here I Go Again" and "Will You Go Lassie Go"...all romping songs that make you want to get up and dance.
I found myself thinking a bit of Chris De Burgh as well as Al Stewart at times while listening, but really, like those 2 also underrated musicians, Dave is in a class all by himself.

There very rarely comes along somethng this stunning, so this is a true masterpiece that I truly hope sees a reissue soon.


title: Great CD

text: I saw Rammstein on this tour. it a good representation of the show I saw. I recommend it if you are a Rammstein fan.


title: These guys don't sound like they're from Texas!

text: This is a great, melancholic release very much in the vein of Landberk, Anekdoten, Anglagard, all my favorite Swedish proggers! Perhaps the resemblance to Anglagard has to do with their former percussionist, Mattias Olsson being at the production helm? And the mellotron! This is without a doubt a mellotron- drenched affair from start to finish. Each track is teriffic and holds the listeners' attention well. No wandering, meandering moments. Just straight- forward, intense prog that includes all the right ingredients to satisfy the most demanding prog fans' desires. Kinda hard to get your hands on, but WELL worth the effort. Recommended to fans of the above mentioned bands as well as Liquid Scarlet, Wobbler, White Willow. One of my new faves!


title: We Have Lift Off!

text: I cannot rate any of Erik Norlanders music less than five stars. He is an incredibly gifted and professional musician. He has also recruited some of the best musicians to accompany him. While I do like Traveler on the Supernatural Highway better than this as it was all instrumental, this one is still among the best he has done. There are some vocals which do not take away from the music, it is just a different approach. Donn Schiff is a multi-instrumentalist who I have seen switch from 6 string bass to cello and not miss a beat. Mark McCrite has a voice that fits the songs and is a gifted guitar player. You cannot play like these three without mastering your instruments. Ne-progressive music that does not disappoint and makes you just feel good inside.


title: The Titanic

text: This is the second critical review I have written against Focus. Mother Focus is the worst album they ever put out. It is all disco and elevator music. This one is not much better as it is all just leftover tracks that were laying around. Loom at the depressing artwork as well. It should have been named Titanic. The music sunk to the bottom and stayed there. A truly great progressive band they once were with long improv and some heart put into their music. I will keep the first 5 releases and like Mother Focus, this one get's recycled into the bin.


title: Excellent Live Material

text: I read a lot of moaning about this set not including, "Match of the Day", which I could care less about. It boggles my mind how many people miss the excellent live material that is not available anywhere else! Disc one has rarities that did not do much for me. I purchased this to hear them live. The live version of, "Man on the Corner', makes me laugh every time I hear it, as there is  a man who yells out, Where is the rest of the band at the intro of the song. I would say everybody has their own reasons to buy this set, mine is for the unreleased live material that was recorded in the 70's and 80's.


title: Five Star Castles

text: I am sick and tired of hearing the, "YES" reference whenever I read a review on this band. They were obviously influenced by YES, but who cares? I do! I think it made them a great band. I have all of the Starcastle CD's and had to get this one to finish,(sadly) my collection. This is in your face symphonic prog rock with well written songs and spot on instrumentation. I love every song and only wish Starcastle could have continued on to make more great music. The only other American prog band I listen to is Kansas, and these guy's are overlooked and under appreciated for what they have done in American progressive music.


title: Last Argent finally getting put on CD!

text: This is one of the best albums Argent has done. I do not own any vinyl. It is not my thing. I love CD's and finally this has been out out on CD. It has some great jazzy, progressive songs with Phil Collins of Genesis filling in on drums for an ailing drummer. My only complaint would be the cardboard sleeve it came it. But I am just happy to finally have this on CD. It will go quickly and then the price will go through the roof, so grab it while you can. Thanks Big Pink for getting this out to us Argent fans!


title: Everyone Benefits

text: This is an excellent Live recording from 1970 that not only has superb sound, but comes from the 25th anniversary cigar box set. So if you just want the CD's, I would highly recommend buying this. Ian Anderson gave the proceeds from this show to help drug addicts. How many of today's sickening pop starts do this? Music from the past will stand the test of time, not the crap being mass produced to the masses with drum machines and horrible signing. If there were no England I would not have any music to listen to. These are facts, not opinions. Bring back the 70's bands with music like this. Ian is a great man!


title: Great Prog Music!

text: This is a great two CD set. It has some artists I never heard of before and I am always looking for new Prog Bands to expand my collection of Prog music. I bought it for the Flower Kings performance and was immediately blown away by the superb sound quality. The Par Lindh Project is also a real gem to hear. I wish I could have been at this concert. Highly recommended to all lovers of great Prog music!


title: Close Your Eyes and Listen to something Amazing

text: Having been a loyal Flower Kings fan since the 90's, I have branched out and to own everything by Roine Stolt. What I never knew was all of the undiscovered talent from the other band members. After seeing this very hard to find CD by Tomas I just had to purchase it. It is like nothing else he has done before. I can hear similarities to some of Rick Wakeman and Vangelis. This might be considered somewhere along the lines of new age music, but it really is in a class all by itself. Music for Heaven! Heavenly music! It makes one feel at peace and is relaxing without putting you to sleep. It has it's highs and lows and is not stagnant. It simply blew me away. I would recommend getting it before it is gone as it is out of print. Thank you Tomas for making music like this. A devoted TFK fan!


title: A much needed throwback

text:
This music will make you think it's still 1973. If you enjoy 70s Rock then this is the record for you. I've been listening to this great band since 2012 when this redux was released. Luckily it was not so pricey like I see it is now. Heard about them from Eddie Trunk on That Metal Show and man was Eddie right about them.
I've since collected their other 2 albums, Head Down and Great Western Valkerie. Both of those are highly recommended as well. Seen them live recently and they were every bit as good as the bonus DVD that comes with this set.
The vocals sound like a mix of so many great singers from the 70s. The guitar playing which at times represent a straight ahead Jimmy Page style mixed with a garage rock sound occasionally similar to Jack White is perfect.
Solid rhythm section completes the pieces needed for the greatest young band I've heard since the White Stripes.
Keep in mind, even though the guitar player sometimes sounds like Jack White, as a whole they sound just a little like the WS did. They are more like Zeppelin, Areosmith( 70s era) etc....
5 Stars all the way.


title: The Core" of the matter is worth owning 3.5 stars!

text:
As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various music supplies and recordings from the 60's and 70's.

November 1977 saw the release of Clapton's "Slowhand" record.  Those that were not enamored with the material joked the title is the problem."  The other side finding no humor with the statement quickly pointed out "Slowhand" is a nickname.  The grizzled  Clapton veteran fan always longs for the guitar hero sound however found strong contentment with "461 Ocean Boulevard" because of the varied musical styles, flashes of the past, and lyrical content.  "Slowhand" offered them diversification but a smaller percentage of the flashback to yesterday.  If Clapton failed to bring along the old crew for the ride, the bus was overflowed with a new era of fan.  You didn't have to travel too far in any city to hear the tunes coming from the fifth floor, the teenagers boom box, or the cassette player in the car.  The album was exceptionally friendly for FM radio.  How so?

While riding high on the charts five of the LP's tunes (The first four in succession and The Core) saw constant Album Rock airplay-Cocaine, Wonderful Tonight, Lay Down Sally, Next Time You See Her, and The Core.

J.J. Cale's "Cocaine" starts the festivities.  Clapton covers the song well and the memorable riff has never left the play list of FM radio.  "Wonderful Tonight" at the time paid homage to his then wife Pattie Boyd Harrison Clapton.  The lyrics are stunning for the beauty.  The criticism E.C. received was for making it more of a singer-songwriter tune than a Clapton composition.  "Lay Down Sally" was not only penned by Clapton but Marcy Levy, and George Terry (Guitar).  A middle of the road result gave this an opportunity to be heard on many non Album Rockers.  "Next Time You See Her" is a hybrid of folk and country.  There is a tremendous line in the tune that would foreshadow the eventual divorce "She got everything including my old car."  The Don Williams song "We're All The Way" is the most overlooked of the albums contents.  Mellow in construction, it gives the listener a superlative Clapton vocal.  "The Core" has some interesting background.  It was actually co-written by Marcy Levy and is the one tune that even the harshest critic of "Slowhand" never faulted.  Clocking in at almost nine minutes it opened the eyes wide when the old rocker checked out the material.  It would never harm inclusion on any Clapton solo record.  The up-tempo rocker has Clapton and band holding our attention through every second.  John Martyn (Opened for Clapton on one of the 1970's tours) penned the next tune "May You Never."  It blends country and folk for a pleasing result.  Arthur Crudup is credited for the blues based "Mean Old Frisco."  Mid-tempo with E.C. playing the blues for four minutes plus.  The ride ends with "Peaches And Diesel."  Next time you have this on the CD Player listen to some of the instrumental portions similarity to "Wonderful Tonight."

If you keep an open ear as the last note is finalized, there is a good chance you can find enough material to digest.  The newcomer may like this solo effort by Clapton the most of any.  The older crowd hasn't tired of "Cocaine", The Core" and Mean Old Frisco."

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"


title: "Confusion" Never again. Upgrade to the remastered CD W/Bonus material!

text:
As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various music supplies and recordings from the 60's and 70's.

The answer is yes.  Those that pose the question if I get a remastered copy of Remember The Future with the bonus single edit can I hear Roye's guitar?  Thankfully, the latest version sounds the way the original album was intended for the listener.

This is one of the finest examples of progressive music ever crafted.  Nektar's uncanny ability to mix their style of rock and roll with intense improvisational pieces is once again unveiled here.

Roye Albrighton's guitar-playing is stunning, Mo's bass is tremendous, Ron's drums excel and Taff picks his stops on the keys.  The vocals are flawless.

Although thought of as two long pieces Remember The Future Part 1 and 2, the album has plenty of subdivisions to keep the journey exhilarating.  Take a trip back in time
Take a trip back in time
Life evolving growing higher
Not just space that bluebird sees
in the sea a new domain

The opening passage sets the tone for the bombardment of your senses.  The intense lyrical and instrumentation combo rarely reaches this level in any recording.  As we travel further the words intensify.

I was the first to see it all when the rainbow
crossed the bridge at dawn
Forty billion miles I came to tell this
Tale already told

When side two emanates from the speakers listen carefully to the section the band refers to as ""Bluebird" > "Smile" > "Lonely Roads."  It's diversity and complexity is nothing short of extraordinary.

There are record albums and there are masterpieces preserved for the future to help us remember it.

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"


title: Your LP has a "Desire" to be upgraded to CD

text:
As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various recordings from the 60's and 70's.

Bob Dylan's "Desire" is not a record album. It is an audio storybook. The images created resonate with such brilliance they don't dissipate when the music ends, they shine brighter.

The opening track "Hurricane" places you at the scene of the bar where professional fighter Rubin "Hurricane Carter" was accused and found guilty of a crime that is still talked about today. Dylan thinks justice wasn't served and gives you a history lesson in one of the most powerful and riveting compositions ever penned.

"Mozambique" is exquisite as Dylan shares his thoughts on the beauty of a nation located in southern Africa. His descriptive phrases make you feel as you visited the continent along with him.

Dylan songs don't need continuity to flow. He is a master at taking us to the opposite edges of the planet from tune to tune. "Joey" ends (the song about the life of a mobster) and we are transported to South America for "Romance In Durango."

"Sara" pays homage to his ex-wife. His heart is not only on his sleeve but you feel the blood dripping from the wound.

All along the journey Emmylou Harris is superlative with background vocals and Scarlet Rivera's violin could bring tears to a clown.
The period of "Blood On The Tracks" and "Desire" could never have enough accolades, so we'll call it "Positively Dylan" and play the CD for the 456th time.

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"


title: "Feelin Alright?"  You'll be much better after purchasing this!

text:
As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various recordings from the 60's and 70's.

"Live At XM Satellite Radio" captures Dave Mason's appearance on XM during 2004.  The representation of many of his trademark songs, well-executed cover versions, terrific fidelity, and bonus tracks make this an easy decision.

Mason's ability has been taken for granted by some but those that have followed his career in and out of Traffic understand his excellence.  "Only You Know And I Know", "We Just Disagree" and "Feelin' Alright" find Dave's voice in fantastic form.  You can be fooled into thinking the versions are decades old by the clarity and conviction of the vocals.

"All Along The Watchtower" (Bob Dylan) lets Mason pay homage to his friend Jimi Hendrix.  Jimi may hold the most well known cover version but Mason's should be right up there for the power and passion.  Speaking of covers as a bonus track the Eagles tune "Take It To The Limit" is included from another venue.

If the CD only contained "40,000 Headmen" (Bonus Track - unreleased studio duet with Jim Capaldi) it should be proudly represented in the collection.

Mason is going to satisfy both the long time fan and the causal one.  Those that have been on board for years will be immensely pleased how solid of a performance this is.  For the fan that likes his better-known tunes, they will marvel how he can sound so superlative outside the confines of the recording studio.

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"


title: A "Buzzard" leaving no stone unturned!  Brilliant!

text:
As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various recordings from the 60's and 70's.

When even the most talented performer is asked by choice or force to work outside their element the normal results aren't pretty. This is only one of the infinite reasons why the self-titled effort from Armageddon is nothing short of spectacular.

Imagine the surprise when Keith Relf a vocalist in the higher echelon decided to branch out from his legendary British Invasion (Yardbirds) singing style for a trip into uncharted waters. Relf had left a permanent stamp of greatness with his contribution to the Yardbirds in the 1960's.

Armageddon (1975) was-Keith Relf on vocals (Yardbirds), Martin Pugh- guitar (From Steamhammer), drummer Bobby Caldwell (Johnny Winter) and bassist Lou Cennamo (Very early Renaissance, Illusion, and Steamhammer).

Unfortunately, for the musical world we lost Keith after the one and only treasure the band would leave us. Clocking in at about forty-one minutes the album is timeless. Every facet is brilliant from the cover that shows the destruction in the background, the musicians selected to record, and the life or death effort put into every note and lyric.

When the words heavy and metal are together to most it conjures up negative thoughts. The preconceived notion that it is all about being loud and how many of the same useless riffs will be repeated is forever branded in the brain. There is also "Intelligent Metal." Records such as this one, Deep Purple with Ritchie Blackmore, Blue Oyster Cult in the early days, and Black Sabbath with Ozzy should never be placed in the same cookie jar as the thousands of groups known for their hair and not talent.

Track 1 is appropriately titled "Buzzard." There is no preparation for what's to come. A vacuum with the power of a tank sucks you through the wall with no escape. You are in a trance as the sonic blast emanates for eight minutes. If the speakers and your body need recovery, there will be brief calm before the next storm.

Track 2 "Silver Tightrope" is beauty plain and simple. The perfect mix of Pugh's guitar (With such clarity he can be in the room with you) and Relf's extraordinary vocals create a song of beauty.

Track 3 "Paths And Planes And Future Gains" continues the theme of the opening cut. Once again a destructive force leaves no stone unturned. The energy and aggression don't dissipate. Pugh's guitar is a machete sparing nothing.

Track 4 "Last Stand Before" features well-written words that are delivered in majestic fashion by Relf. His range is tested throughout, as is inflection. There would be no doubting the outcome. Listen for tremendous production during Pugh's solo, as the sound changes from speaker to speaker. The octane a shade lower than the previous track but not any less stellar. You may even hear Relf pull out a harmonica from the Yardbird days!

Track 5- "Basking In The White Of The Midnight Sun (Warning Comin' On/Basking In The White Of The Midnight Sun (Reprise)" Somehow the band is still standing although the listener has long been rendered unconscious. The conclusion is more firepower and a terrific vocal delivery from Mr. Relf.

There aren't enough superlatives that would give proper justice to the artistry of the Armageddon debut. There is a reason above all others that this should be in the CD collection. Keeping Keith's memory alive with the brilliant Yardbirds reissues and his final gift to us is paramount.

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"


title: Five Stars

text: good item.


title: Five Stars

text: A++++


title: A Delight for Fans of Jazz Vocals and Sondheim

text: Fans of jazz vocals and Broadway will find much to enjoy on Cheryl Bentyne's reArrangements of Shadows.I wasn't sure that I wanted to hear another, any other, version of Send in the Clowns - especially a jazz version.  But the arrangement by Mark Kibble makes the overdone standard a delight.  I was also pleasantly surprised by  a less-over-the-top-than-usual reading of The Ladies Who Lunch, with Janis Siegel and Tierney Sutton joining Bentyne.  Other highlights include a heartfelt reading of Wish I Could Forget You and Not a Day Goes By, given new life by a Latin groove.


title: Great 👍

text: Great 👍


title: Love it.

text: Great CD. Some of his best songs.Lovethe older ones even more.


title: Four Stars

text: Good album of early Willie


title: I am happy thanks.  everything

text: Just what I need


title: The dells. Nobody can touch them .

text: I’ve given 10 + copies of this collection away, and I needed one for my car. So I bought another one the way these guys sing is incomparable with anything else. Notes held for what seems like hours. Just awesome talent. If you aren’t familiar but love great vocals, listen to this. These guys are the Joni Hendrix I’ve vocals


title: Beautiful score by Michel Legrand

text: Beautiful score by Michel Legrand. Ranks with "Summer of 42" and "The Thomas Crown Affair" as one of his best works. Thank you Intrada for this release. If you are a fan of this composer it is a must for your library.


title: Laughing

text: Really???....almost a thousand dollars??...you people LOVE to pretend


title: a great show and right here

text: seeing as I live in Wichita and a couple of minutes from Century II....I was going into this biased and very interested to hear it....bias aside.....DAMN!!!..it was more than I expected....Jerry is on FIRE!!!....a great show and right here,near downtown Wichita....proves that they had nights that were magic,NO MATTER where THEY PLAYED....coming off the heels of EUROPE '72...I encourage fans to purchase this and TURN IT UP!!!


title: JY busts loose!

text: james Young entered the solo world in the mid-eighties with Jan "Miami Vice" Hammer riding shotgun. Young's songs sound much like his material with Styx, which means we get another slab of his songwriting formula of ...opening guitar-lick, verse, sing-a-long chourus, verse, guitar solo, verse, sing-a-long chorus, fade out....sometimes he hits his mark (City Slicker, Still feel Your Love, Waiting) and sometimes he doesn't (Give me something..., Wild Dogs) but none of it is terrible. Young's hammer-heavy riffs are augmented by Jan Hammer's very interesting synth solos to go along with his own. There's no doubt that JY loves big riffs and he has written plenty good ones in his career, his songwriting is not as good as his riffs, however. One thing that bugs me on the album is Jan Hammer's over-use of his programmable drum synths that ALL sound like the drum sound he used on the Miami Vice theme. It's a real 80s sounding synthetic drum timbre that just grates after a while. The Young/Hammer duo do produce an odd song (Prisoner of War)that cleverly utilizes a sparse JY arrangement with Hammer adding some very nice sound effects that is successful at giving the tune real atmosphere. Overall a decent effort from an unlikely source (JY) with a very unlikely pairing of two artists seemingly on the opposite ends of the rock spectrum. I would have liked to heard another effort from the duo, (a Jan Hammer guest spot in Styx would really be odd)but its a one-shot deal here, folks.


title: Rolled off treble lacking clarity on 20th Anniversary 1992 stereo CD Remaster.

text:
The stereo cassette had much more clarity in vocals and overall 3D presence the last and only time I played the entire Dark Side Of The Moon album on a Sony Walkman with the orange foam headphones in 1989.

Another issue is most of this remastered album is very quiet at around -21dbRMS (in Audacity's Wave Stats) which means it suffers from volume knob anxiety much like movies where the voices are too quiet and the explosions too loud (or what audiophiles and audio engineers like to call wide dynamic range).

This was the case playing on my vintage 1972 Sansui 2000A amp, 1985 Norman Lab big box two way speakers &1992 Technics CD player. Yeah, it's an old system and yet most of anything recorded in the last 20 years issued on CD sounds perfect even EDM. No rushing over to adjust the volume knob. Classical music has the same issue. It's ridiculous!

I played the CD on my MacMini on my W-King D8 boombox bought on Amazon with the EQ treble brightener turned on and it still didn't have the clarity as I remember on cassette. This boombox is quite loud so as are many of this type of modern portable WiFi boomboxes that can incredibly project music quite clear and loud outdoors compared to similar portables I remember 30 years ago.

On my Sony MDR V6 studio monitor headphones I bought on Amazon years ago it's a bit more clear but I almost have to max the volume slider on my MacMini to hear certain passages like the big bass heartbeat sound on the first "Speak To Me" selection. Waiting for it seems to take forever.

I have to check my Sansui system whether I've turned it on because it's so quiet and then when I turn it up IT'S TOO FREAKIN LOUD! when "Breath" comes in. Those clock sounds are right in my face! I don't remember having to do this on the cassette back in 1989.

It's still an iconic brilliantly produced album but somebody's got to remaster it for clarity and sectional volume control.


title: Jangle Pop greatness from Godzone

text:
Sometimes you stumble on an album which demands immediate attention, with its accessibility and joyous, indie country, kiwi, no thrills pop sensibilities. This album is one such, drawing on multiple influences but mostly a jangle pop style sometimes featuring sea shanty type grooves. Blue Whale starts off as if its come right off a Go Betweens album, beautiful jangle pop.

Cheryld is track two and it doesn't get much better than this, a lovely harmonious pop song, heavy on the afore mentioned guitar jangle with a classic outro, truly memorable.

My Turn is next and more immediately engrossing guitar driven pop, laconic and literate, a terrific song that i can imagine playing loud, sitting outside at some desolate bach looking over the sea. A paen to a lover, its quite lovely.

Mrs Brown (You've got a lovely daughter) comes next a fun, bouncy, poppy little number done with alternative instrumentation (accordian?) a brilliant rendition of an old classic. Done not tongue in cheek but respectfully. I don't have any idea what song 5, Cadbury Jones is about but the boys start sounding like the Posies around now and that can only be a good thing.

Goodbye to Old Friends has the band doing their best "Albatross" imitation with the thematic and visual Kiwi, ocean inspired lyrics. Nice. Have i mentioned yet how good Brian Jones lead vocal tone is, a quite classic pop tone reminiscent of the Hollies or Alex Chilton.

You're my little Tapioca Queen is the lead off lyric in the next track, and the band are continuing on in fine form, Matthew Sweet type Power Pop. I don't know what a Tapioca Queen is but its obscure enough to be stolen and used in conversation, getting just the sort of blank look reaction that is vital when trying to confuse someone. I'll look forward to borrowing it in my strange wee world.

Anything for You is next and is a hopeless love song, come on retain some control here fellah! A lovely piano with acoustic accompaniment, a pretty ballad and another strong comment.

Smell the Clobber starts off with lovely rhythm acoustic and quickly becomes a lively little ditty with alternate percussion thingo's, vaguely latin or polynesian, with crying baby and violin outro, very moody, needs to be longer. Lyrically I think its pokes the finger at displays of wealth.

Another 60's pop 'n roll slice next, in Walk with Aces, accordian again and a quick sub 2 minute romp. Tic ticks over in 10 seconds flat and Shidney Song finishes the album with a play on lisping, a sea shanty which entertains and makes you smile.

Overall some masculine orientated lifestyle lyrics permeate but generally an intelligent adult oriented very listenable and complex album with the kitchen sink tossed in. If you're a fan of off-beat alt pop or kiwi pop, do yourself a favour and buy this terrific album.


title: Obscure, alternate folk, worth seeking out

text: Cottonhead's Happy Tree is a terrific album full of very, very good stories all sung in a throaty, artsy vibe supported alternately between worldly minimalistic instrumentation through to full band alternative guitar driven tunes.  Vocalist Mary Birdsong creates quite an ambient feel.  Lots of studio chatter, sung live in the studio, this is a group of musicians at the top of their game.  Looking for soundalikes, try The Band meets Over the Rhine, or maybe somewhere between the Weepies and Cowboy Junkies.  Anyway a purchase I'm very happy I made and I'll be seeking out more of Cottonhead.[[ASIN:B0007QCLPY Drunkard's Prayer]]


title: Five Stars

text: Love Savoy Brown music. This is a good LP.


title: For the songs only, I would give this album ...

text: For the songs only, I would give this album four stars.  I'm writing a review to get some feedback.  How is the sound quality on this disc?  Thanks!


title: Great Rare Jewel

text: I Was Lucky Enough To Finally Come Across This Great Rare Release I Believe There Were Only 1900 Copies Of This Cd Made, But Not For Sure On That.My Favorite On This One Is Willy The King.This Was During The Modern Times Era On This Song, Also Like How Does It Happen As Well As The Bear Farmers Of Birnam, And All The Rest.The Jazzed Up Version Of Soho Needless To Say Is Different Than The Original Version, And Worth A Listen To As Well. Al Stewart Is Still Making Music Today.


title: One Great Record

text: I Have Had This Record Since A Young Kid. It Somehow Got Broken, And I Have Searched And Finally Found A Copy Of It. I Have 4 Shady Oak Boys Records, And This One To Me Is By Far The Best. These Guys Know How To Take A Mundane Country Song And Bring It To Life. One Listen To Alabama, Roving Gambler, Froggy Went To Courting,and Sparkling Brown Eyes And You Will Hear What I Mean. I Do Not Care Much For Country Music, But I Really Like This Record. If You Like Country Music You Should Really Like This Record.


title: Can't Believe This Great Classic Is Not On cd.

text: Lets Hope They Release This Great Album On Cd.This Album Has Real Good Songs On It. My Favorite Is Fly At Night,And Roll On. The Two B-Sides Not Released On This Album Are Good,Reach Is Ok, But Mary Lou And Me Is My Favorite Of All The Songs. Can't Believe This Classic Song Was Not On The Album.Lets Hope They Get The Message And Put This Classic On Cd Real Soon Including These 2 B-Side Songs.


title: "THE FRONT" was definitely 'ahead' of it's time.

text: Tommy Funderburk & Bob Wilson's superior, successful attempt to reach a corner of the CHR market with that very "L.A. Sound" was greatly welcomed and applauded by Southern California radio airplay in 1984. There was alot of that genre's type of music coming out of Texas and the Nashville machine was already kicking into full gear when their "The Front" project was released by Refuge Records, and later issued on CD format by it's original distributor, The Benson Group. Loaded with the fancy works of then L.A. session players and back up vocalists, including the late, great Andre Crouch, this work has stood the real test of time with catchy hooks, power chords & haunting melodies. Both Funderburk's highly dynamic vocal works and Wilson's power drumming on then "state-of-the-art" electronic, synthetically controlled pads were something that the CHR format was really yet to embrace. But fully accept and embrace, they quickly did. Funderburk & Wilson later returned 3 years later with their second rock project entitled "What If" on mainstream label RCA Records, and even though the production was highly refined and extra polished, it failed to make an impact on either radio or retail, perhaps due to RCA's failure to properly promote and provide quality A&R. In closing, a purchase of their firstborn "The Front" would make a memorable journey down the 80's musical lane.


title: Got took.

text: Saw this same picture disc for a 1/4 of the price on EBAY two weeks after I bought this one.


title: CARSON Knows How to Boogie Down !

text: Shades of Boogie and Blues !  The Canned Heat influence is predominant throughout but Carson sparks up their take on the genre with the prerequisite great harmonica work also also throws in some tasty saxophone and ( flute ?) as well. These Boys from Down Under prove they have honed their chops well. l find it quite interesting to hear of them many years after the fact and the somewhat dated sound is nevertheless enjoyable ,just as Canned Heat still is after these many years of listening to them. The volume is a little bit lacking on these recordings but well- mastered considering when the  recordings were made. Very listenable and recommended to all Boggie Blues fans out there.


title: Too Bad...Twice Over

text:
Too bad this cd came out ( not from the closet, mind you) awhile back for a fortunate few but now is unavailable except as a download or too expensive to purchase.....
  Somebody's missing the boat here ,as you can surmise by the vast number of favorable reviews on Thee Tube. The only reason these boys didn't make it " biG " here  Stateside is A. they were foreigners B. the band recorded on a small (read: obscure ) label C. there was so much competition already out there in 1974 ,and last but not least;  D. the record came out with limited distribution and a lack of fanfare. Too Bad!
  Having the same longevity due to great musicianship as say , the Pousette-Dart Band or " thee fabulous " Butts Band yet even more obscure than either , another great band goes by the wayside....Too Bad,Two Bad


title: Pay more, get less..

text: This lp sounded so much better thruough a music website , suprisingly. Yes, it is Funky and yes it is good and Funky but there is something missing from the mix. Japanese pressings of a lp used to be audio masterpieces back in the day.This is a Japanese pressing but the sound is not superior to the original by any means, as they used to be. In fact, it sounds rather flat actually and that's what grioesme about paying more for a failing audio reputation. Nowadays, to get that audiophile sound I turn to German pressings such as BGO ( Beat Goes On Records ) or some English companies that truly care about the quality of their sound /label such as Edsel Records. Japanese mastered pressings are not what they used to be and leave much to be desired anymore.....case in point.<br />  By, Jonathan Still


title: Also a Questionable 2 Stars

text:
Should be clearly noted by reputable company that Side B's Song #5 on original lp by Area Code 615 on " Trip In The Country ",called " Gray Suit Men " wasn't recorded onto this reissue by Prog Temple
  If we let this slide as a buying public without being plainly noted on advertising and / or cd . What is next Celieb People
.....
where Metro One cuts all Ry Cooder 's fine guitar work out entirely without notifying potential buyers and does a poor hack job at that........  Where is the integrity, even in The End Days???
  By A Concerned And Observant Musical Aficionado.  P.S. Even if you buy it anyway you feel slighted, even IF it was noted before buying part of a reissued
 original recording..
..A Public Service Announcement
  By , Jonathan Still
P.S. Prog Temple gets a questionable 2 Stars


title: LP's A little spotty but brief glimses of magnificence

text: "No Compromise " means you'll do without this fine recording unless you have a record player. I could easily go for a"  very best of Emergency " cd,  if someone who knows how good these guys could be on their lp's were to want to make a charitable donation to audio history and make some dough too! My Ears Would Thank You Muchly !<br />  By,  An Enthusiastic New Fan,  Jonathan Still


title: Those were the days,my friend.

text:
It's not unusual considering the times that a reviewer might remember ( if that was possible in the 60's) a group as being exceptional. It could well be the influence  ofall  unmentionable substances that were ingested at the time, or perhaps for that time they stood out somewhat from the rest of the pack. Whatever it was, it certainly didn't get captured any other way except " live," as this disc pretty clearly shows.
  l happened to see Blind Faith with the opening act being Taste with Rory Gallagher in Portland,OR a few years back ( snicker, snicker). Blind Faith was the group we originally went to see, but they were obviously disintegrating. The otherwise unknownand opening act, Taste , was exceptional beyond comparison to anyone else out there at the time.  " On The Boards" barely captures  the breathtakingly exciting Jazz/ Blues/ Rock they played that night. It was, hands down, the best band I have ever seen " live" except for the Crayhawks ( one of the many incarnations of Robert Cray w/ Curtis Salgado). Anyway, " On The Boards" is still a landmark album whereas " If It's So" will disappear in obscurity long before. Some things are just better off being a nice memory.
  By Jonathan Still


title: A Decent Disc From A Relatively Unknown Group

text: There are moments in this disc that shine brilliantly. Steeplechase have a definitely intense sound.The lead singer has that gravelly "Crow " sound on several of these cuts, which I recommend highly.There is only one exception on this disc that  I do not care for, and  that is occasionally the repetition of the background vocal harmonies can be a tad monotonous. I can  hear a number of influences herein, even a little Cream and some Deep Purple as well as a number of other groups but they strived to create their own sound for sure. If you like the 60's sound and something interesting as well with a bit of creativity , this disc has enough moments to keep you listening. There is nothing earth- shaking here but I would recommend it nonetheless for the shining moments contained here.....<br />  By, Jonathan Still


title: Not underated, just over-looked!

text:
Actually, I would prefer 4 1/2 Stars for this disc, only because it lacks the power of a contemporary sound.
  The extraordinarily gifted Bob Margolin  (just imagine ! ) plays guitar here as a member of this greatly imaginative and creative band on this, their only disc and dated 1967. I hate the word " dated" anymore, altho I  do use it in a derogatory fashion in place of the word " passe'. Although this is  definitely a relic from the 60's and an  obscure band at that - it is still  one well worth looking into. There is more going on on this disc than a circus with a barrel full of monkeys as a main attraction at the circus!
  If you enjoy unearthing rare, overlooked gems from the 60's.....look no further. All the various musicians here have  an incredible amount of talent(s). The guitar is great, as are the drums but used sparsely. The arrangements  are diverse  but well- delineated .well- arranged and obviously rehearsed yet having a spontaneous and feel to them. I took a chance on the more expensive digi- pak with the three bonus tracks, not wanting to miss out on anything, and I'm not disappointed.Each and every track  has its own individual character which is  refreshing and shows that the musicians know their instruments and how to coalesce nicely. I would have been very pleased to have discovered this band back in 1967, because THEY ARE excellent and much good can be said about this recording. It isn't Cream or Quicksilver  Messenger Service by any means, but it does havea stand-alone and stand-up feel and sound to it, in it's entirety. The professionalism is astounding for it's time, including vocals and harmonies, and does hint at the influence of drugs with all the originality and creativity inherent to that era. A superb album ,well- recorded, re- mastered,  thoughtfully arramged and available now remastered on cd.
  Although l didn't discover this group anytime in the 60's it is still an absolute pleasure to discover them now. Sincerely.
  By Jonathan Still


title: Recommended !!!!!!!

text: Badd Ass! The Funkateer, Funkmeister, Bottomman is at his finest on "Jungle Bass". I have searched for this CD for the longest! Forget about your pre-conceptions of Bootsy Collins on those other recordings by him. This time he outdoes himself and shows masterful musicianship even in a semi- classical setting... and still gets the Funk out in a booty shaking way. The songs are cohesive and timeless. This Is The Real Funkateer At His Finest!!!


title: Lamont Cranston Blues Band....feat. Pat Hayes

text: Altho there are better Lamont Cranston cd's out there, such as "Roll With Me" the Lamont Cranston Blues Band feat. Pat Hayes disc is an enjoyable listen. The first two cuts start off with a bang and the licks are tasty. Unfortunately that energy doesn't continue and things mellow down easy from there on, which after those two initial cuts kind of builds up ones expectations somewhat. This isn't to say the licks become less tasty which would be unlike any Lamont Cranston Band recording I've ever heard . At first uncertain as to finding a place in my collection , now this disc is one I'm proud to have take it's rightful place therein. The musicianship is there once the preconceptions are dismissed. Another fine recording, as one might expect from these bluescats. Thumbs Up!


title: "Sleepwalking" is a beautiful recording, and a must for any Gerry Rafferty ...

text: "Sleepwalking" is a beautiful recording, and a must for any Gerry Rafferty fan. "Snakes and Ladders does have it's moments as former FM airplay will attest. Having the two together is a fine way bonus as l would not personally have bought " Snakes and Ladders " but discovered two songs on it that I liked very much but didn't know then what album they were on.This is a good buy as a double disc.Check it out!


title: Great addition to any Fogerty collection.

text: Some of Fogerty's best and he's always good.


title: Every song is at least good, many are great.

text: Not too many new songs but those on CD are very good, showcasing Katrina's awesome voice--the best female singer of modern times (and yes, that includes Barbra)


title: Who's BEST

text: There have been so many releases of WHO'S NEXT on vinyl and I've owned most of them from the very first release on Decca and the UK edition on TRACK. This short review is for the 180g Polydor (Music On Vinyl) 2012 release. It is exquisite front to back. The cover art and inner liner are superb materials. The LP comes housed in a resealable 3 mil sleeve. The vinyl itself is heavy gauge and whisper quiet. The dynamics across the board are first rate. Highs, lows and mids are perfectly balanced and one of the finest remasters on vinyl one could hope for. If you ever wish to purchase this edition, be sure "Music On Vinyl" is printed at the bottom backside of the cover art. It was manufactured in the EU which is also the last thing you will find in small print on back of this release.


title: Why don't we get the full score???

text:
This CD is made in Germany and contains a good deal of the legendary music composed by Elmer Bernstein for De Mille's second Ten Commandments, the one that everybody remembers now.
This CD is pricy as you imagine. Rare.
The original LP issued by Paramount has only 18 tracks and about 1 hour of music. MCA Classics issued that on CD, which has become itself a rarity. In 1995, Tsunami (Germany) issued the music including the overture (not included on MCA CD), and you get 1:02 h of music. The booklet of the Tsunami CD says that it is the actual film soundtrack from the VistaVision recordings; and that the most other releases are a 1959 re-recording made for Dot Records. In fact, the Tsunami CD has the advantage of having almost the same music as on this Falcon Records CD. The sound quality being the same, the only difference consists of a better tracking on the Falcon CD that split the various moments on multiple tracks whereas the Tsunami CD has put together short movements. There is one single track more on the Falcon, which is a dialogue taken from the film with the voices of Charlton Heston, Cedrick Hardwicke, and Yul Brynner. This CD omits one or two tracks available on  the original LP and MCA Classics cd. The problem is no one knows where is the full score. I have recently discovered that there is a so-called complete soundtrack of Ten Commandments with 41 tracks and more than 2 hours of music on two cds available uniquely as MP3 from those sharing files sites like Torrents or Rapidshare. Hey, where is the original? one should look into the matter, and find out whether Paramount has ever released the full music or not. For the moment, we have to stick to these bits and pieces...


title: A Wonderful Reading of a Great Music

text:
This recording is almost unknown due to a series of celebrated recordings of this piece over the past fifty or forty years. Well, I should say something about the conductor and orchestra first.

Nicolai Golovanov (1891-1953) was a great Russian conductor and composer. He conducted the premiere performances of a number of works by Myaskovsky, Glazunov, Mussorgsky and Liszt. He studied with Scriabin and Rachmaninov in the Moscow Conservatory, and gradually occupied highest musical positions in the newly formed Soviet Union as early as the 1920s. He has been associated with the famous Bolshoi Theater Orchestra and Opera. At the apogee of his career, he suddenly fell in disgrace by the authoritative regime of Stalin and died - probably of depression - a year later. I don't need to speak of David Oistrakh who played the solo violin for this recording of Scheherazade (quite exceptional for a virtuoso, but remember that Menuhin played the solo violin for Efrem Kurtz's conducting of Swan Lake). So, here you have a combination of two giants performing a Russian masterpiece.

From the very first bars, we are stunned by the intense voice of the brasses which is soon followed by the captivating sound of Oistrakh's violin, the best that I have ever listened to. You can hear through the shrill and not an excellent remastering, how Golovanov constantly varies the textures with emphatic gestures of crashing cymbals, boiling tympani, pounding bass pizzicato.
The second movement opens with the beautiful sound Oistrakh's violin, and then harp, piccolos, and other wind instruments play the main melody, which is taken up by strings' pizzicato, then the strings play it emotionally.

The third movement is beautifully transformed into a consuming search for a repressed passion, and is one of the most unique and beautifully played of its kind.

The fourth movement, which is supposed to reflect the Festival at Baghdad and the mounting way towards the Sea and the destruction of the ship by cliffs, is full of melodies and different intermixing themes, and each one can be clearly heard in Golovanov's conducting. Golovanov's reading and mastering of this extremely colorful piece makes this one of the best Scheherazade on record.
The CD includes three instrumental movements from The Legend of Tsar Sultan opera, which are a plus to this historical gem.

The sound: This is a 1950 recording. Do not expect to have an excellent remastering like those by NAXOS. It has been remastered by Russian engineers from the originals preserved (in which condition and how) in the archives of the Russian TV and Radio. The recording would have been much better with a better remastering, of course. Despite these, this is a MUST for any one who loves Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade, and is ready to listen to historical recordings. Golovanov's conducting is fundamentally Russian, and I think this is how the piece would have been conducted and heard at the time of the composer, a purely Russian tradition inherited by Golovanov. So, five stars.


Four Stars


title: Musical Genius

text: I got this as a random gift to my dad, and he loves it!!!


title: Another historically great album by Stevie Wonder

text: What can I say ... Genius is Genius!!!


title: One of three or four of Stevie Wonder's  best ablums

text: I've been a Stevie Wonder fan since hearing him as Little Stevie Wonder singing "Fingertips Pt. 1". There is no question the man is a musical genius. However , I had forgotten just how great this album sounded until I heard a cut from it on the radio days ago and than I just had to have it and I'm glad I did.


title: Rick Ross is back!

text: Rick Ross is back! After a few ordinary albums, Black Dollar almost approaches the standard of Rich Forever and Ashes to Ashes. A must have for fans.


title: arrived on time and was in great ship.

text: Unbelievable information....arrived on time and was in great ship...thank you


title: Some music soothes for many: others need serene melodies!

text: My husband loves Ragtime,(even @ bedtime) because for him it's calming & he loves to play it on the piano,since his youth!<br />  Thus, this his perfect prescription for listening at bedtime!


title: Old stockholm and concierto life changing how art is supposed ...

text: Old stockholm  and concierto  life changing  how art is supposed to chang us.  D ashby was a genius.


title: Clearly the best album ever recorded with Rod Stewart and Ron Wood

text: Cuts from this album still get radio airplay, it rocks, it’s timeless. It was the best collaboration of Stewart and Wood before the Rolling Stones stole this great guitar player.


title: This is the best cd of Neil Young with his band crazy horse.

text: I saw this concert in 1979, it was amazing, Neil at his best, and it was captured on this cd. Excellent.


title: OUT TAKES not worth it.

text: Don't waste your money ! These songs were leftovers from the Division Bell sessions. They didn't make a double record of the Division Bell than .<br />Now they want to cash in on the out takes. Not Cool Mr. Gilmour.


title: ...then PHIL WOODS gets down on SHAFT IN AFRICA!

text:
In honor of great jazz arranger Johnny Pate's 80th Birthday, the producers of this concert and recording asked 8 jazz luminaries to perform, probably for a stipend. They ALL said yes, showed up to play the socks off arrangements by Mr. Pate. You know who he is or you wouldn't be on this page. For thirty years, JP's charts for BB King, Curtis Mayfield and many others defined the intersection of Jazz and R&B. I put off getting this album for almost too long, worried that it was "live" and that the sound wouldn't be up to snuff. Well, it's the best of "live'- excited musicians playing for an appreciative audience and the sound is pretty well recorded.
Plus, how else are you gonna hear Phil Woods, well into his 70s, get into the deep funk grooves of SHAFT IN AFRICA ? What is that worth to you?
NOW you know whether you need to buy this.


title: AWESOME!!! Willem Breuker Kollektief hits Gershwin's Bullseye!

text: This CD may look home made but it is gorgeous, professional musicianship and recording. The curation of pieces gives a better feel for just how wild and improvisational George Gershwin was during his life. Somehow, by playing is LULLABY and CUBAN OVERTURE next to Ennio Morricone's theme for REVOLVER has these pieces, so often stuck in amber of nostalgia, come out swinging! AMERICAN IN PARIS sound not only jaunty but down right cocky as it swaggers with youthful exuberance. WBK is an amazing brass band who performed together all over the the world for decades. The string parts are performed admirably by VERA BETHS who has recorded George Antheil. If you ever get a chance to hear this recording, DO NOT PASS UP THE OPPORTUNITY!


title: Simply the best of Nancy

text: Simply one of the best and finest of Nancy's work while in Japan. A must have for all Wilson fans.Great songs.


title: Found : A Gem from Ms Nancy  Wilson

text: I am so happy to have found this copy of Ms Nancy Wilson's album titled "A Lady With A Song".For  one; it's an import version from Japan. What stands out from this version from the American made CD is that it happens to have an *extra song included. A gem of an tune written by Anita Baker titled "Fairy Tale:. It is a recorded *duet by both  Anita  Baker and Ms Nancy Wilson.I feel so lucky to have found this copy from an outlet titled Samurai Media. Am listening to it right now and am very pleased with this recording.  ATTENTION: Received my 2nd order of this wonderful CD on 2/04/2017 !!! Ordered another copy of this CD as a gift to my daughter who enjoys this CD very much. Thank you to distributor *KAZU JAPAN SHOP/Osaka; Japan !!!! Love you.


title: I Love Nancy

text: Another compilation of Ms. Nancy Wilson's body of work while in contract with Capitol Records. She recorded a whole bunch of albums while there.This album is wonderful and very enjoyable to listen to. A gem of an album.


title: Saranghae SHINee <3

text: I love this group. CD & DVD are just fantastic. Bought this for the DVD part. I recommend this album highly to all lovers of K-Pop music and SHINee <3


title: I love this DVD & CD by *Super Junior

text: I love this DVD & CD by *Super Junior !!  Even though it's a single recording of "Mr. Simple !!! I bought this  mainly for the DVD !! As  I said even though it's about 1 song. The DVD has 4 different versions of "Mr. Simple and I could watch even more versions if permitted .I love this group and their voices ; but most of all their marvelous dance routines. So in step & precision. I recommend this recording to all *true fans of Super Junior. And to all lovers of K-Pop.


title: Saranghae Rain/BI

text: I am a great fan of Rain/Bi !!I love discovering his early recordings.I am glad to have purchased this wonderful CD. I made a great choice and a great buy.Love listening to him all day;when I have the chance.


title: I Love *Super Junior <3

text: I love my K-Pop music !! But most of all my favorite guy group is Super Junior. I am in love with *Siwon. That is why I ordered this 3 song CD with his picture. I have the full album with these songs on it. But as I said I'm in a fan crush with Siwon; so that's the reason I had to get this.I love this CD and I can never get enough of playing with it.. I recommend this to all Super Junior & K-Pop lovers everywhere. Go out & buy this <3


title: TVXQ = I LOVE U

text: Fantabulous album from start to finish. I am so in love with this group.I especially love the upbeat tunes in the album. Although I am new to the K-pop scene I am so happy to have discovered these guys. I watch a lot of K-drama's here in Hawaii.And that is how I started to hear K-pop. I started of with SHINee; Super Junior; Rain, etc. And now i am in love with these 2 .Especially Yunho. The first song that got me me started by them was "Mirotic". And now......I am so happy to have bought this album.


title: RAIN/BI

text: I fell in love with Rain only this year.I had heard of him but only recently thru watching a lot of K-Drama shows here in Hawaii have discovered a great love for K-Pop music. I started discovering Korean music by watching videos on You Tube. I just had to go out & buy me some great recordings.With Rain...I started out by buying his last work!! The EP titled "Back To Basics"  It was pure love from there. I also have "It's Raining" & the "4th Album/Rain's World" I can hardly wait for Rain to record something new, now that he is out of the military. i do not understand Korean except for a few words from watching my K-dramas, but music is *Universal in all languages. I love the beat & his soft ballads. And also appreciate his singing some in English. I am hooked on Rain & K-Pop. My other fav performers are Super Junior & SHINee <3  Long live K-Pop <3


title: Nancy Wilson's "AT MY BEST"

text: This is one of Nancy Wilson's 1st recording on and independent label *ASI after her contract with Capitol Records was over.*circa 1981.A beautiful *live recording with The Nancy Wilson Trio.Who consisted of *(piano)Michael Wollf; (Bass) John B. Williams; *(Drums)Roy McCurdy........#MUSIC LIST AS GOES: "Save Your Love For Me; "A Sleeping Bee";"Never Will I Marry";"But Beautiful";DINAH WASHINGTON MEDLEY: "This Bitter Earth";"What A Difference A Day Makes";"Salty Papa Blues";"..."I've Never Been To Me"; "Teach Me Tonight"; "Our Love Is Here To Stay"; "How Glad I AM"..........All in all this is one of the *best of Ms. Wilson's Live albums.  A GREAT BUY INDEED !!


title: Nancy Wilson *jazz

text: I highly recommend this album to all lovers of jazz and Nancy Wilson . The song tracks are beautiful. I had this album when it 1st came out in the 1960's. Decided to buy it again and turn it into cd format as I have done with all of Ms. Nancy Wilson's vinyl recordings that were not pressed into cd form.Go out and buy this album if you can...I highly recommend it.


title: Versatile talent with great back-up.

text: Excellent treatment of jazz standards and creative, lyrical composition by Mr. Robert. All members of the quartet added to the compositions with their own styling. I especially enjoyed his version of City Lights. I would be interested to know if Mr. Robert is still performing or if he was involved with other perforance projects.


title: Good time music.

text: Early Dave Grisman with the same Dawg vibe. These are all pretty much standards, but with the vibrancy and obvious enjoyment of  Grisman and Taylor. Just a feel good, toe-tapping time. Great road trip music.


title: Five Stars

text: excellent


title: A great talent never recognized

text: Though the Facinators are fine, I am a huge fan of Norman Fox and the Rob Roys.  Not only am I a kid out of the Bronx and Clinton (I believe the Roy Roys went to Clinton and Fox to Roosevelt) but the power of Norman Fox's voice is unbelieveable.  They should have been a mega group but being kids in the late 50's, the business end of the record business killed them.  Poor distribution and no distribution because of contact problems killed them.


title: Full of the WORD

text:
This CD is full of the Word of God. It is a CD that is comforting and
reassuring to you in your Faith in Christ.

The Best Of Billy Gaines

1. Other Side of This Trial
2. Blood Washed
3. Come Drink At My Table
4. Friend Indeed
5. Always Triumphant
6. You Are Faithful Lord
7. The Same All The Time
8. A Promise That I Will Keep
9. All Day Praising You
10. Underlined


title: Remembering my history!

text: A golden oldie


title: A great (and fun!) tribute to Frank and Tommy...

text:
[excerpted from a full review on VocalStandards.com]

... I find LET'S BE FRANK...  to be somewhat unusual if not unique. The title clearly calls it as a concept album, but rarely do you see such a tight artist/material focus on a concept album ... Dorsey/Sinatra hits from 1940-1943 is about as thematically tight as you can get, and yet the breadth of emotion and style exhibited here is expansive and airy.

Also unusual on this LP was the front to back collaborative nature of the production. Peter deservedly receives top billing but Alan Copeland's deft hand with arrangements, baton and extensive lyrics work underpin one of the most collaborative vocal/musical efforts you will find today.

There is extensive and elegant interaction throughout the set list between Peter and The Dream Weavers. "Extensive" and "Elegant" are not hyperbole here ... the sheer volume of background lyrics -- all refreshed and rewritten with allusions to today -- and the constant weave, interaction and role reversals between Peter and Sally Stevens' "Weavers"  is impressive (and exhausting!)

I expected Calabria Foti to dive in with a couple of duets, but Ms. Foti's wonderful vocals appear on virtually every number ... and she delivers full duet parts on four songs.

The collaboration extends to the musical performance as well with Copeland doing a masterful job displaying the rare talents of Alan Broadbent on piano and Bob McChesney's sexy smooth trombone throughout the production. At once folded into the wonderful orchestra and then out front soloing ... these guys are balanced perfectly and heard from beginning to end on this LP.

A Performance...

Concept albums can often benefit from an ordered play list flow. Whether intended or unintended playing them straight through, from beginning to end, sometimes enhances the thematic effect of the listening experience.

LET'S BE FRANK intentionally sets out to deliver a performance event feel. The LP kicks off with a cool intro medley ... leading out with the swinging title track written by Alan Copeland that flashes us back to the early 1940's and sets the stage for the "session" to come. The LP wraps with Peter thanking the team, closing out the "performance" and reminding you to ... "Put your dreams away for another day". Nice.

As always, the compete track list can be found below, and though this album is stellar from front to back I will hit on a handful of my favorite Let's Be Frank numbers.

Peter follows the title song in the intro medley track with a couple of sad separation/love songs "This Love Of Mine" and the 1940 chart topper "I'll Never Love Again" ... Peter's melodious, smooth baritone vocals emote the love, loneliness and longing these songs wonderfully express.

Alan C. and Peter pick up the tempo with a swing version of "All Or Nothing At All"  that starts a run of superb tracks ... "It Started All Over Again" with Calabria Foti's initial duet landing in all it's sultriness and an awesome demonstration of the Peter/Dream Weavers interplay  with a fun, Chesney trombone and Broadbent laden "The One I Love Belongs To Somebody Else".

As I re-listen to this recording...

I think could name each song in the set list as a favorite ... "Polkadots and Moonbeams" with Alan Copelands neat intro line "the best things happen while you're dancing" (!) ... the beautiful and atmospherically sad duet with Ms Foti "The Night We Called It A Day".

And the last three singing tracks are personal favorite numbers that Peter, Calabria, The Dream Weavers and the orchestra render in 40's big band period perfection ... Irving Berlin's "Be Careful It's My Heart", "Street Of Dreams" and the Tommy Dorsey classic "Sentimental Over You".

If you are a big band fan LET'S BE FRANK... is a fun fresh take on the early war years that you should have in the fold. If you're just starting to reach back to this amazing era of classic American standards music, do yourself a favor and give this album a listen ... I'm sure it won't be long before we see you at the fan club meetings!

BTW...

A couple of footnotes before the track list and VS ratings... first, LET'S BE FRANK... is not Peter's only 40's big band standards album. He released a 14 track LP called BOY SINGER in 2001 that I have only heard on the TheStandardsChannel.com and from snippets on Peter's website. What I have heard sounds great though, and I plan to snag BOY SINGER and offer a review around mid summer ... check back!

The last footnote is a follow-up well wish to Peter who very recently celebrated his 86th birthday. Peter was 85 when he performed and produced (along with Bob McChesney) this latest CD release ... I am completely taken with Peter's vitality, talent, commitment and sense of fun ... all of which are demonstrated in spades on LET'S BE FRANK. I only hope I wake up tomorrow -- at 55 -- with half the vimm and vigor Peter possesses!

LET'S BE FRANK... WITH A TOUCH OF TOMMY - Track list...

(VS_Guy ratings: "+++" pluses are good; "~" for meh to middling;  "- - -" minuses are not good)

1 Intro Medley: Let's Be Frank/ This Love of Mine/ I'll Never Smile Again 5:19 +++

2 All or Nothing At All 3:29 +++ If your toe's not tapping ... well, I'm afraid you may be dead.

3 It Started All Over Again* 4:24 ++++ classic period number and Calabria's first feature duet ...sultry goodness

4 The One I Love Belongs to Somebody Else 3:20 ++++ Alan Copeland's "Weavers" lyrics, Bob's trombone, AB's piano... Costco!

5 Darn That Dream 4:00 +++ building to McChesney's 'bone obbligato

6 Will You Still Be Mine* 4:10 +++ another mandatory toe tapper

7 Polka Dots and Moonbeams 4:47 +++ the best things do happen while your dancing

8 The Night We Called It a Day* 4:02 +++ classic break-up ballad ... beautiful and atmospheric Foti vocals

9 Be Careful, It's My Heart 3:04 +++ great Broadbent piano and guitar from Sid Jacobs

10 Street of Dreams* 2:55 ++++ How does McChesney make that 'bone sound so mournful? Ms Foti

11 Sentimental Over You 3:39 ++++ quintessential Dorsey... perfect balance with 'Weavers and Bob M's trombone

12 Thank You's (Peter wraps and credits the team.) Put away your dreams for another day...

* Calabria Foti duet numbers (she appears throughout but is featured on these tracks)


Great!


title: ... presentation from TV as well & it was very good.

text: I was very lucky to have recorded this presentation from TV as well & it was very good.


title: I enjoy these rerecorded items

text: I have grown to be quite a fan of this Lady, I enjoy these rerecorded items.


title: I think you'll enjoy ALEX DONNER, he's Very GOOD.

text: I had never heard of this performer before, but he turned out to be quite impressive.


title: I love it. Had forgotten that the C D was ...

text: Just exactly what I thought it would be. I love it. Had forgotten that the C D was still out there. THANKS.!!!


title: Two Stars

text: When you increase the price on a daily basis makes it hard to buy the item.


title: Great album

text: Great album


title: The Mother Lode

text: This CD isn't just Tommy Dorsey Orchestra at it's Best; it is the Big Band Era at it's Best . It's the 1940s Band with Sy Oliver Arranging an singing. Oh yeah, a little help from Buddy Rich, Ziggy Elman, Charlie Shavers, Jo Stafford,Chuck Petersonand and  a myriad of the cream of the crop big band Musicians .You can project yourself and your best girl on the Dance Floor and getting more into each song as they keep coming .You would go home exhausted and very Happy !


title: For HS Seniors of the Mid Fifties

text: This is a trip of Nostalgia for us 1950s fans. Is it great music...NO ! But you will know every word and every riff because you were part of it. You will remember that HS Crush, Double Dating, Drag Racing and all the things that made the 50s...:THE 50s"!


title: East to WES

text:
Before putting out a bunch of stuff which disappointed real jazz fans from all over the world, Wes, famous for his "octave" style on jazz guitar, and also for how he used only his thumb to play which gave him a unique sound, he put out some great jazz, and this is one of those albums. With Mel Rhyne on organ and Jimmy Cobb on drums, this album is"boss guitar" in every sense of the word. There are 10 cuts, two of them "Besame Mucho" and "Fried Pies", & a number of other tunes.

"In his skyrocketing but tragically brief career (his first album as a leader came late in 1959; he died of a heart attack in 1968), Wes Montgomery completely revolutionized jazz guitar." (back liner notes)

That says it all!


title: Canadian Jazz Legend

text: It's too bad Americans pay so little attention to Canadian jazz musicians. I think that this is the best album Moe ever made; & the fact that he had guitar legend Ed Bickert with him makes it twice as good. The rest of the rhythm section is impeccable as well.On this offering, the Quintet does a lot of bebop standards such as Dizzy<br />Atmosphere;Things are getting better all the time; Moose the Mooche;Straight No Chaser & Cheryl. As well, some well known standards are there: Our Love is Here to Stay; Lover Come Back to me; Someday You'll be Sorry, etc. There's even a couple of compositions by Moe himself. "Infatuation" & my personal fav: "Hungarian Goulash." The guys also do a great job on "Jitterbug Waltz." There are more, but I think you get the idea. Ed Bickert's solo on "Jitterbug Waltz".....well, it doesn't get any better than this! Moe plays alto & flute. On a personal note, Moe & my Dad played together a few times, my Dad playing tenor. I am also a jazz musician (guitar) & had the pleasure of knowing Moe & Ed personally. Moe & Dad are gone now & Ed is retired since his wife died. If you're a jazz fan, this CD is a must. I have about 1000 jazz CDs, but listen to this one on a regular basis.One more thing: I have to at least mention Bernie Senensky on piano, Barry Elmes on Drums & Pat Collins on bass. They also take some terrific solos. 5 stars guys: this is one of the greatest jazz albums ever made.


title: Very disappointed!

text: Wasn't even michael buble CD inside. It was of a mariachi band. Very disappointed!


title: Five Stars

text: It truly is a worship cd.


title: Only one good song in my humble opinion

text: It's a so-so musical. Only one good song in my humble opinion.


title: Five Stars

text: Here are the songs we heard over and over again and Johnny truly gives them a new sound.


title: Lovely songs and a beautiful voice

text: I bought this CD directly from the artist, whom I knew from a hobby organization.  So I knew she had a damn good voice, but hadn't heard her in a well-produced recording before.  This is an excellent collection of fine old songs, sung with richness and sincere artistry.


title: 5 stars for Girl's Generation

text:
Released April 22, 2015, this is the first Japanese single from Girls' Generation in over a year. Hopefully they will have a Japanese album this fall as well.

CD tracklist:

1) Catch Me If You Can
2) Girls
3) Catch Me If You Can (off-vocal)

DVD Tracklist:

1) Catch Me If You Can

********* Packaging: The limited edition CD/DVD comes in a jewel case, not a widescreen cardboard digipak case like all their previous limited singles. though it's much nicer than the average jewel case. It's all black except the title is written on the front in small dark gray. Mourning for Jessica fans?
Instead of shrink wrap, the case comes in black bubble wrap sealed with black tape.

Warning: the case gets fingerprints and scratches very easily.

******** Slight  Review

The music on the title track is very electronic, perhaps dubsteps' calmer brother. The singing is of course very good, and watching 8 girls instead of 9 isn't all that different, especially if all your favorite members are still there. I must note that the most awesome versions of a song titled "Catch Me If You Can" are the live versions by Babymetal.

"Girls" is a slow song with piano music at the beginning, then it picks up some. I generally like loud fast songs better, but this song seems nice


title: 5 stars for Girls' Generation

text:
Every purchase requires a certain combination of fandom and disposable income. This item I think requires the highest level.

I've seen two pictures for this item. One has blue sky and the girls posing poolside - that's the (folded) poster. The other is a black and white underwater shot - that's the cover to the thick photobook. The actual item you get is a brown cardboard box, with the photobook, poster, DVD, and rubber coaster inside.

Here's what you get:

1) Photobook - 8.5" x 10 and 5/8" X 1 inch thick. A lot of nice photos, most taking up the entire page or more. An Amazon.co.jp reviewer says it's 290 pages, which seems about right.

2) DVD - 22:02 (that's zero hours, twenty two minutes, and two seconds). It starts with the girls at a scenic stop out in the desert. I think Tiffany says the name of the place in English, otherwise all the dialogue on the DVD is in Korean with no subtitles. The rest of the DVD has them going into the hotel, hanging out at the pool, doing photoshoots in the hotel room and at the end taking photos with spiderman and other characters completely out in public with crowds of people who apparently didn't know who they were. Really made me wish I was visiting Vegas at the time with CD's in hand to get autographed.

3) Folded poster approx 21" x 25"

4) Rubber coaster designed like a casino chip with all the girls names on it

5) Brown cardboard box

I pre-ordered this from a Korean Ebay seller for $55 with shipping and I feel that was too much - there's no music. I would have muchpreferred a 3rd Japan Tour or fourth Japan album but they seem to be taking a break. They haven't even put out any Japanese singles this year (unlike the previous two years). Instead they are taking vacations in places like Vegas, which they deserve, so there.

************************ Update!!!!!!! Third Japan Tour is coming out 2014.12.24!!!!! ************************