Amazon.com essential recording

This plunge into blues and roots Americana stands with This Year's Model and Imperial Bedroom as Costello's greatest work. Ryko's repackaging is immaculate, natch, and this time Elvis contributes a fascinating 3,000-word essay about the recording and its dismal fate at Columbia's hands. --Jeff Bateman ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Place Were I Made My Best Mistakes
Without a doubt, KING OF AMERICA was one of Costello's strongest releases in the 1980's. And that's saying alot in light of albums like GET HAPPY, IMPERIAL BEDROOM & the underrated TRUST.Next to ALMOST BLUE (& now DELIVERY MAN) this is Costello's most Country & Folk oriented album. It's also his most acoustic. Though The Attractions play on a few cuts, they basically sat this one out. Suffice it to say, they were less than thrilled to be blown off in favor of the stellar line-up assembled here. It's enough to make your jaw drop. Legends like James Burton, Jim Keltner, Earl Palmer & Ray Brown. Just as stellar are the songs. "Indoor Fireworks" & "Poisoned Rose" are among the finest he's ever penned. Right up there with classics like, "Almost Blue". The bleak majesty of "Little Palaces" & "Sleep Of The Just" will haunt you in your sleep. And things don't get any more scathing than the likes of "I'll Wear It Proudly" or "Suit Of Lights". As for the rest, "Brilliant Mistake", "Jack Of All Parades" & "Big Light" all go to show there really isn't a dud on the album. I suppose Costello best sums it up in "Our Little Angel"---"this is the place where I made my best mistakes". He also does well on his choice of covers. His raspy take on "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" is as brooding & menacing as it gets. On "Eisenhower" he wisely lets his guest stars blow off some much needed steam. Of course, the real clincher for fans is the bonus disc. "Having It All", "Suffering Face" & "Deportee" capture Costello at his maudlin best. "Shoes Without Heels" & "King Of Confidence" would have only improved the original album. His covers of "True Love Ways" & "End Of The Rainbow" are priceless. As for the live cuts, things like "Tears Me Up" are gut wrenching to say the least. For those who found SPIKE's "Tramp The Dirt Down" a bit too preachy, meet the Pop version,"Betrayal". Sadly, this is reputed to be the last of the Rhino reissues. Well, on KING they give you the royal treatment.

Crown jewel in Costello's 80's releases comes to CD again
"King of America" stands as the crown jewel in Costello's late 80's output. Rhino has finally issued this stellar gem in a deluxe edition that puts the previous version released by Ryko to shame. Although the first edition had a bonus disc with a handful of live tracks and bonus tracks, it lacked the deluxe grandeur of what this reissue deserved. This edition has all those bonus tracks, live cuts plus 14 previously unreleased tracks. The bonus tracks have all been relocated to the second disc (like all the re-releases)presenting the original album on the first disc alone.

Personally, I would have loved to see this released as a 3 CD deluxe set with a disc devoted to most of the concert the live tracks are drawn from. I always felt that the live tracks were little more than a teaser for a much bigger, better album that was never released. Since this is the last in the Rhino remasters that's going to be released (unless they put out the limited edition 5 CD live album that was put out in the 90's), I would have loved to see a limited edition 3 or 4 CD set not unlike the Rhino Handmade releases of this terrific album with additional outtakes and live tracks. Oh well, one can always dream. At least we have this fine album finally in a deluxe edition the way it should have been released in the first place. One of Costello's least appreciated but finest albums finally gets its due.

Loaded with a great set of liner notes discussing the making of the album and the bonus tracks, Rhino and Costello have done a great job at putting this classic album together for re-release. The remastered sound does sound better than the previous versions although some of that could just be the way this remastered version was tweaked. My only complaint is that, unlike some of the other notes for the other releases, it seems like we get less information about the additional bonus tracks here compared to some of the other remasters. Oh, and more importantly for Costello fans, we do get the complete lyrics for all the songs written by Costello.

saving the best for last
As all Elvis Costello fans know, this is the last of his works to be reissued by Rhino with an extra disc of demos. outtakes and live tracks.It is also the very best, both because the original album is so good and because the extra disc is brilliant.The Ryko reissue had only a handful of extra tracks.This version, by contrast, has over 77 minutes of additional music.However, it is more the quality, not simply the quantity, of the music that makes this disc special.The solo acoustic demos which open the new disc are some of Elvis' very best work.They almost make up an album in themselves, and make one wish that Elvis would record more solo material.The Coward Brothers material is excellent, but not new.The disc closes with an exceptional live set, which ranks among the best ever live recordings Elvis has released.Buy this record! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Surprisingly Stellar Triumph
When I first heard "Where is the Love" last summer, I couldn't stand it. I dismissed the Black Eyed Peas as one hit wonders and waited for their moment to pass. Then I heard "Shut Up" and was surprised I liked it. It wasn't until I heard "Hey Mama" that I fell in love with them. This CD is by far the best hip hop album right now because each song, even "Where is the Love", sounds good when you listen to the entire album. In my opinion, they are just as good, if not better, than that other visionary hip hop group, Outkast. Each song sounds like a radio smash, and it's not surprising this group has moved past the one hit wonder tag.

1)Hands Up- gets the CD off to a good start. One of the best party songs of the past few years. The perfect opener for this CD.
2)Labor Day- probably my favorite song on the CD. The beat is infectious, the vocals are top notch, and I think would be an even bigger hit than "Hey Mama" if they release it as a single.
3)Let's Get Retarded- the title threw me off at first, but they say right off the bat it's not meant to be offensive. It really is a good song and it's no wonder it is their latest single.
4)Hey Mama- yes, it's not the same version we heard on the radio, MTV, and VH1. Does that make this version bad? No, the track still holds up even without the excellent Fergie vocals heard on the single version.
5)Shut Up- I like the way this song sounds. The vocals play off each other very well, and even though it's about a disastrous relationship, you can still dance to it.
6)Smells Like Funk- another really good song. I like the beat.
7)Latin Girls- a little long, but it's still a really good song.
8)Sexy- I like the feel of this song. It's very smooth and it sounds great.
9)Fly Away- a great showcase for Fergie. She probably sounds her best on this song.
10)The Boogie That Be- another really good party song. The beats are really strong.
11)The APL Song- a good song. I like the way this song tackles an overused subject but still makes it sound very good.
12)Anxiety- a surprisingly strong rock song. The appearance of Papa Roach sounds strange in theory, but makes perfect sense when you hear it.
13)Where is the Love- not my favorite, but I really do like this song now. I understand the lyrics more now. They even make Justin Timberlake look good.
14)Let's Get It Started- the radio version of Let's Get Retarded. My only problem with it is that if they could put this single onto the CD, why couldn't they put the version of Hey Mama we all want to hear on it?
HIDDEN TRACK)Third Eye- probably the most political song on the CD. I really enjoyed this song and think it's the perfect way to close a near-perfect album.

I highly recommend this CD. I can't think of one song that I don't like, and that is a rarity nowadays. This album should have gotten so much more praise from critics than it got, but I believe someday this album will get the respect it deserves.

Exceeded my Expectations
I never thought I would enjoy a Black Eyed Peas album, but after hearing "Shut Up", "Hey Mama", and "Let's Get it Started" on the radio and really liking them, I decided to buy the album. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I like most of the tracks on the album. In addition to the singles they've released, other songs that are great include "Anxiety", which is a collaboration with Papa Roach and comes off as a great hip hop/rock song, "Smells Like Funk" and "The Boogie that Be", which are great upbeat party songs, and "Fly Away" which showcases Fergie. My one disappointment is that the album version of "Hey Mama" is not the same as the radio version. While it is still good, it has a lot less Fergie vocals (the "off the richter, off the richter,..." lyrics are not on the album version) and the music is slightly different. Overall though, this is a great upbeat album that will make you want to sing and dance along!

One of the best albums of the 21st century (seriously)
Almost out of nowhere, the Black Eyed Peas have crafted one of the most excellent albums I have ever had the pleasure of buying. Yes, this album is THAT good. Every song works, and each one sounds like it could be a hit single. With this album, they have earned the right to be called one of the best hip hop groups working today. For those who think Outkast is the only group making relevant hip hop today, please give this album a listen. BEP may not have won all the Grammies, but that doesn't mean they aren't in the same league as Outkast.

Elephunk opens with "Hands Up". This is the perfect song to open the album. The song is practically guaranteed to get any party started. After this song, I didn't know if the rest of the album could be as good as this song. After hearing the second song "Labor Day (It's a Holiday)", I knew this was going to become one of my favorite albums. The song opens with a catchy hook and then goes into a chorus that sounds like they sampled Madonna's classic "Holiday". It is in the chorus that this song just explodes into something incredible. This is by far my most favorite song on the album and I really hope it is the next single. The next song is "Let's Get Retarded". With a title like that, I didn't know what to expect. Turns out it is another finely crafted dance tune. Some people may be offended by the title, but will.i.am says in the beginning of the song "In this context, there's no disrespect." It is just a simple and different way of saying "Let's party!". The next song is "Hey Mama". The radio version of this song has become one of the biggest hits of 2004. Although that version doesn't appear on this album, the original version is pretty good. I'm glad they remixed it for a single, but if this version had gone to radio, I think it still would have been a big hit. The next song is "Shut Up", the 2nd single off the album. I love the way the vocals respond to each other in this song. I had this song stuck in my head for days whenever this song came out last year. It wasn't as big a hit as their other singles, but that doesn't make it any less good. "Smells Like Funk" has a laid-back feel to it. This is another one of those songs that will be stuck in your head long after you listen to it. Next is "Latin Girls". This is a pretty long song, but I like the Latin feel to it. This song could set off another Latin music craze if it were released as a single. "Sexy" is the 8th song on the album and it also has a laid-back feel to it. "Fly Away" is an incredible song. This song is a showcase for Fergie, the newest member of the group. I think that the people who think she can't sing should listen to this song. I love the beat and the lyrics and this song is one of my favorites. "The Boogie That Be" is the 10th song and it too has an incredible beat that few people will be able to resist. This is a very cool song and it shows that this isn't one of those albums that starts to wear out as the album winds toward the end. "The APL Song" is one of those inspirational and uplifting songs every artist loves to do. This one is actually pretty good. "Anxiety" is their collaboration with Papa Roach. I had no idea they would work so well together with BEP. This is a very good song about being so angry you just want all your anger to go away before you do something you'll regret. It is a straight up rock song and I just love it. Next is "Where Is the Love". This was a really big hit for the group, and it's no surprise why. Sure, the song may be a little sappy in some places, but I admire the fact that they wanted to write a song that would get people to think about things like the war and what our country is coming to. Not even Justin Timberlake can ruin this song. Next we have "Let's Get It Started". This is the radio version of "Let's Get Retarded". For obvious reasons, the group wanted to avoid controversy by changing a few of the lyrics before they put the song out as a single. This song is just as good as the original and it has already become yet another hit for BEP. There is also a hidden bonus track called "Third Eye". This song features lines like "If Bush is Pinnochio, then who the hell is Geppetto?" and "You were foolin' me once before, but you ain't foolin' me twice no no." Those lyrics may put off some people, but I love the fact that we are in a place where groups can speak their minds about Bush and not receive death threats like the Dixie Chicks did. This song is a bonus for a near-perfect album.

I am very glad I bought this album. Sure, lines like "Let's get retarded" and "Shut up just shut up shut up" may not be high are, but then again neither are "Hey ya" or 'Your roses really smell like boo boo boo." They are just good silly fun. What's not to like about that? This is one of the best albums I have bought all year. Nearly every song explodes into a little block party, and the songs will be stuck in your head for days. I have listened to this album many times since I have bought it and I will continue to listen to it over and over. This music is fun to listen to and I really do think it is one of the best albums to come along in years. It's definitely one of the best albums I have ever bought. Do yourself a favor and buy this album. You will not regret it.

Where exactly is the love?
Speechless, thats the only way to describe it. When i first heard the single "Where is the Love" gag reflexes arose and vomiting ensued. Was that a little to harsh? I think not. Their "funky beats" and "genius rhymes" are nothing more than a groups struggling attempt to become celebrated hip pop "artists". Now, nothing is wrong with wanting making money, but when mainstream heavy hitters are added to to somewhat underground hip hop group's recipe im inclined to ask myself, Where is the love? The love im referring to, is the love of making good music, not vacuous lyrics stratigicly placed beneath poppy, radio friendly beats and Justin Timberlake. Through their first two albums it was the words, innovativly strung together into lines of rhymes, that ran throughout my head daily, not the teribbly misplaced guitar riff from Papa Roach in Anxiety. Im opting not to touch on the other tracks for the simple reason that it might just throw me into a paroxysm of histaria. I own both of their previous albums and belive me, if i could strike this album from their discography i would. This is not quality hip hop, and if you perceive it otherwise i suggest research on your part is necessary, and you might start with "Behind the Front" and "Bridgin the Gap". Listen to the album if you must, but while you do, ask yourself what exactly it is that your hearing, music or corporate balderdash.

hey mama, buy it now
stacy's mom is rite on this 1, buy it now, B.E.P. rox hard. all the songs r awesome.

THE LADY IN SPIDERMAN 2 SINGING THE ANNOYING SPIDERMAN SONG IS MY HERO ALONG W/ THE GUY IN THE 6 FLAGS COMMERCIAL!!!!!!!!
GO DC! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Forget for a moment the rumors that suggest the lead singer of this New York five-piece used to play in a ska outfit called, yes, Skabba the Hut. It's a given that a band that so brazenly apes the Strokes' scratchy vocals, Interpol's deep bass grooves and the Killers' shimmering new wave melodies is hardly concerned about being written off as unfashionably fashionable. In two years time the Bravery could very well be making robotic Afro-Cuban funk albums, or whatever other hipster style happens to be troubling the charts at the time, and it would suit them just fine. Right now, the group has the neo-post-punk thing nailed, complete with warm-fuzzy tunes like "An Honest Mistake" and "Unconditional," that, if nothing else, should at least manage lure a few more bodies onto the dance-floor. -- Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Reviews (71)

good stuff
when i first heard this cd, i seriously thought the killers had changed their name and released their second album already.i think the art work's basic layout on each album is kind of similar especially the back cover.both cds have 11 tracks and were released on the same label.ibelieve if the bravery had released their album before the killers people would be on the killers case for ripping the bravery off. it is ridiculous to be on the bravery for ripping off the killers because both bands rip off many 80s bands.neither are doing anything very original but both have made very enjoyable albums.i am a fan of both.i probably like the killers better but i've only had the bravery for 2 hours or so, so that could change."an honest mistake" and "tyrant" are very good songs.if you are a killers fan and don't like the bravery then there is something wrong with you.the albums sound very similar.to not like the bravery because they copy the killers is just stupid. if you enjoyed "hot fuss" you should most likely enjoy "the bravery" unless you're a "holier then thou music fan" a.k.a "idiot."

Good to Excellent
Since they don't have 3 1/2 stars, I'll just say it is Good to Great. First off, yes. This is not a band that has unconvered anything new. This is not Sonic Youth circa Daydream Nation. Second, yes, there are times that it sounds like a band produced by Duran Duran, but, NO, it does not sound like The Killers. As a matter of fact, after listening to both albums, The Bravery is far better than the Killers. Listen to this album for what it is, a great rock synth moody album.

Fun & Fabulous Neo-Retro Dance Music (3.5 stars)
Wow, I really hate 90% of the reviewers out there! It's fine to criticize (I do it constantly) but at least have some legitimacy or perhaps logic. It's really tiresome and disappointing to see so many people say "these guys copy The Killers, duh." What? The Killers haven't exactly been around for years. By the time 'Hot Fuss' came out The Bravery had long ago written their album and were already in the studio. It doesn't even make sense that they are copying The Killers. Many say that they sound like The Killers but with a lot more synths and dancier beats. OK so just say they sound like The Faint and not like The Killers. That even makes some chronological sense too given that The Faint had actually released their albums prior to The Bravery recording theirs. The deeper point is that if you're so worried about a band being original then The Killers stink too; They sound like a bunch of 80's bands just like the rest of these outfits. In short, why pick on The Bravery so much?

If you come in with reasonable expectations, I think you'll really have fun with this. It's bouncy and upbeat filled with throbbing basslines, catchy synth hooks and pouty vocals from Sam Endicott. Actually I find that the he sounds more like a young Bono than any of the comparisons being made here. You will find a few melodies that are cloned from past hits like Duran Duran's "Planet Earth" or U2's "New Year's Day" but it's forgiveable. My faves are "An Honest Mistake", "No Brakes", "Tyrant" and "Unconditional".

In short, just have some fun with this. It isn't a major artistic coup, but here's a newflash for the uptight among you, neither is "Hot Fuss". All of these groups have a sound that's been done before and none of it is going to be remembered as a landmark. These folks are just rekindling a great sound from a past era. As another reviewer noted, I'll take this over Limp Diksuk and britney any day.

Really unworth your money or your time.
The Bravery sounds more like The Crappery. They try to emulate The Killers in every aspect by using synthesisers and emulting the voice of Brandon Flowers. This CD has only one good song and it's the first title on the CD : An Honest Mistake. The rest is pure ****. The songs become very repetitive and they are really, really not catchy or substantial. I will give them some points for using different sound arrangements or instruments on their CD, but that's about it. The songs and the CD are not worth your time or your money believe me.

The Bravery are a poor attempt to capitalise on the fury that is new age rock. They do not deserve a second CD, that's how bad their first is.

The most awsome cd ever played!
this whole cd is GREAT! its Fantastic...two thumbs up, way up!
... Read more

Reviews (165)

Bridging the Weezers
Most fans agree that Weezer's first two albums were the band's greatest contributions to modern music.Personally, I feel the exit of Matt Sharp cost the band too dearly to continue under the name Weezer.Consequentially, after much anticipation, the "green album" and "Maladroit" lacked the substance and replay value of their predecessors.Now, many are calling "Make Believe" Weezer's grand return to their original glory.I can't say the songs on this album have the sheer fun of "Buddy Holly" and "El Scorcho" or the emotional strength of "Say It Ain't So" and "No Other One," but there is a distinctive reach back to the band's roots.I disagree that "Make Believe" is on par with the original "Weezer" or "Pinkerton," but it makes a nice bridge between the two bands.

In short, if you loved the original albums but lost a taste for the band's later releases, then you won't find the "old" Weezer here.On the other hand, if you have enjoyed hearing the band evolve, "Make Believe" is a necessary addition to your collection.

Make Belive... that this is a good album...
Granted, Blue Album, Pinkerton, Green Album (although a little too poppy and generic), and most of Maladroit are some of my favorite, and the best albums ever made, however Make Believe fails to strike a chord in my heart. Basically this album's songs just don't match up to the old ones and are maybe, so to speak, too crooneresque? Weezer needs the heavy guitar (Tired of Sex) to really come out, not speaking the same cliche phrase over and over again (Beverly Hills, the epitome of horrible).
Since it's Weezer, I cannot give them 1 star, they're just too amazing. I will definitly see the Make Belive tour, just to hear the old stuff, however I do not recommend Make Believe

As expected, yet another golden album
I thought it'd be a good idea to listen to this album while I reviewed it, but as I'm so enthralled with each and every iota and intricacy of Make Believe, I find myself losing focus. From the opening drum roll of the first track, Beverly Hills, to the closing bars of Haunt You Every Day, I'm enraptured. Every song on this, Weezer's fith album, has its unique brand of wonderful. From the catchy piano chords copmlimenting perfectly Rivers' vocal melody in Perfect Situation, to the eirily identifiable lyrics of Peace, to the mellow bliss that is Freak Me Out, (Which also happens to contain one of my favorite moments on the album. It's one of those so typical of Weezer, where Rivers is singing, and the melody is climbing and building, and just when you think it's at its peak, Rivers takes it up a couple of notes, thereby forcing you to melt in your chair.) every song is just what you need. Anyway, I could write until I was blue in the face, but I suppose I've said enough. I strongly recommend the purchase of this (and of every other Weezer) album.

incredible
At first the album wasn't a hit with me. Maybe it was built up expectations or maybe it's just one of those things. Pinkerton was the same way with me and is now my favorite Weezer album. After listening to this over and over again, it has clicked and gets better every time. Who knows, mabye after a few more listens it will be competing with Pinkerton. Anyways, awesome album and a definite recommendation to buy. My standouts are "Hold Me", "My Best Friend," and "Haunt you Every Day"

All Gorwn Up but still a child at heart
Make Believe is a combination of all four previous Weezer albums. With the catchy fun songs like Beverly Hills and We are all on Drugs showing hints of both the "blue" album and the "green" album. Songs like Haunt you Everyday and Perfect Situation have the honesty and emotional sincerity of Pinkerton; yet this isn't for 13 year emo girls. There is a new style of lyrics with the quality guitar, drums and bass that Weezer fans have come to know and love. The three year wait is over and the product is something that I don't think anyone could have expected. Make Believe made me fall in love all over again seeing the growth and individual style that they've emerged with. My hat goes off to the entire band. I would encourage everyone to check it out you won't be disappointed. It's on vinyl too! ... Read more

Amazon.com

This supergroup with ever-changing personnel (no longer limited to seven) is less a band than a bilingual concept and boundary-crossing vision. The third and most rambunctious release under the Los Super Seven banner takes its title from the ZZ Top anthem celebrating the Mexican border radio of the 1950s and '60s. With the title track sung by Tejano mainstay Ruben Ramos, the transgenerational duet on "Cupid" by Freddy Fender and Rick Trevino, and the alcohol-fueled mariachi of "The El Burro Song" performed by the Mavericks' Raul Malo (a ringer of Cuban descent), the Hispanic imprint on the project remains much in evidence. From the northern side of the musical border, Lyle Lovett revives Bob Wills's "My Window Faces the South," Rodney Crowell renews Buddy Holly's "Learning the Game," and Joe Ely covers Holly acolyte Bobby Fuller's "Let Her Dance."

Perhaps the album's dominant influence is that of the late Doug Sahm, whose Sir Douglas Quintet was a Tex-Mex trailblazer. Sahm's spirit is channeled here through two songs he wrote--"I'm Not that Kat (Anymore)," sung by John Hiatt, and the jazzy "The Song of Everything," performed by Raul Malo--and another one he recorded, "Talk to Me," given a soulful reading by Delbert McClinton. However wide the musical range, the results rarely fall short of super. --Don McLeese ... Read more

Reviews (4)

More a Concept than a Band CD
I did not come to this CD with any pre-conceived notions.I had not heard of Los Super Seven and have not heard the prior CD's.The only song I had heard perviously was the ZZ Top tune that gives the recording its title.I heard snipets of the music in a review on the radio and thought it sounded hot.The full CD lives up to the promise of the snipets.It is really a collection of different styles and music -- latin styles I have heard but cannot name, a sort of country swing, rock, blues.It is music that was played on border radio partly because there was no outlet for it on the main stream stations."Song of Everything" is my favorite."Heard It On the X" is also good.Owing to the mix, this CD is a little like listening to a good cross cultural radio or music television station in the southwest.Appreciate it for what it is -- a tribute to the boarder radio of the 50's and 60's -- and this is a very enjoyable CD.

Different But Still Great
When I saw Los Super Seven had a new album-I ordered it sight (and sound) unseen. The first two albums were SO great there was no question- just buy it. I tore it open, threw it in the CD player in my car and was shocked to hear what others have mentioned-no sign of anyone from Los Lobos, very little Spanish language music, and alot of rock and roll...albeit superb rock and roll.
Don't be deterred by this-change is always good, and this change is wonderful. To say that this album doesn't belong under the banner of Los Super Seven misses the point: simply put-everyone who has been in LS7 grew up on this music, and therefore it is legitimately part of the series- and in fact an essential part of the series.
Border Radio (and I was thrilled by every word of the wonderful history written in this package) exemplified what LS7 is all about-cross musical and cultural pollination. This collection of updated and heartfelt updates does for Border Radio what the other albums did for Mexican and Cuban styles; brings it together and expands the vision by combining the original artists with those who grew up influenced by their innovations.
This is a GREAT record...the musicianship is superb, production and mixing wonderful, modern while never forgetting the ethos of the border radio music; hot, raw and smokin'.
Liste- I never thought I would love a ZZ Top song either (being an ethinc music snob) but that is not the point, the point is to experience and expand understanding and knowledge about an essential piece of uniquely American music- and on that count alone- this album fits in the series like a glove. Beyond that- this is a wonderful record- the ultimate back yard rockin' party record.
Expanding our musical horizons goes both ways- pushing the boundries and envelope of music and creating something new, and discovering something new that has been right in our own backyard for decades. Take the chance and let go- you'll wish you grew up on the X too...

" Heard it on the X" -- You MUST buy this C.D.

The music in this c.d. is crisp, finger snapping, toe tapping, and I hope you buy it. I just got it in the mail and I have been listening to it every day, night, and at work!
I had never heard of the " X" radio stations. I had heard of many of the musicians but had not personally listened to their music. This music opened up another culture to me. And I want more.
This music is saucy, sexy, jazzy, and with a good dose ofblues. This c.d. will make you feel as if you are listening to the music at a plaza in a border town. It made me start salivating for a libation of the tequila kind. Yes, it can be labeled "Texican " but it's that and so much more. This music is what laid the foundation for groups like Z.Z.Top.
The amount of talent on this c.d. is mind blowing. It had to be great. If you don't know all of them you will get to know them. The music is that good.
After having more than one boy friend who was an alcoholic I found it refreshing to hear a man ( Raul Malo) sing about his girl friend being SO hung over she can't get up.
The El Burro Song is sung with heart and grace, as only Raul can do. The sonic fusion of Calexico, Mariachi Relampago, and Raul's smooth, virile-fueled voice is pure musical alchemy! This is the first song on the c.d. and after hearing this song, you too will be hooked. The next song is " Cupido" which brings the collaboration of Freddie Fender and Rick Trevino. It's a dynamite combination and I hope they do more music together. " Cupido dame la mano" - Cupid help me, lend me a hand.
It's tastefully done and this song will have you heading for the fridge for some kind of libation. I know it made me.
Every single song is great. Song #5 - "My Window Faces the South" sung by Lyle Lovett, reminded me of sitting on the Moon Walk in New Orleans watching the boats go by. The melody is pure " Southern" bliss. His voice is perfect for this song. The two were born to be together.
You will also enjoy song #9 - Ojos Traidores sung by Rick Trevino. He's sad, he's mad, he's hurt and you hear it in his voice. All I could think was, "Boy, she's a mean girl that dark eyed woman." Rick Trevino sings with a lot of soul and you feel his pain.
When you read the credits of all the major talent involved you should note the assistance that was given by the legendary talents of Flaco Jimenez, Arturo "Sauce" Gonzalez, Charlie Sexton, Jacob Valenzuela, Max Baca, on and on. There is no way this c.d. was going to be a dud. It's filled with much illustrious talent. Kudos to the producers who did a great job on this c.d. It was a great under taking and the end product is for your enjoyment.
I have no negative feedback on any of the songs. The music blew me away. I even loved the artwork on the cover. The only things that vexed me were the pictures of all the singers who contributed. They don't indicate who is who. And another thing missing, that miffed me, was the absence of the lyrics. They were nowhere to be found. Come on now, you have great music you must have great words. And you do -- you just don't have them written anywhere for you to read them.
This c.d. stands alone and should be purchased and enjoyed. Trust me, you will fall in love with the music. Some of the lyrics are racy considering the music was written in the 30s and 40s but a lot of it is timeless - ageless, what ever you want to call it. Don't deprive yourself, buy this c.d. and let your mind take you to a place where you can enjoy this great music.

NOT Los Super 7
Before even considering the quality of the music, let me say that I felt cheated by this CD. To sell this CD as the third from Los Super 7 is, to say the least, questionable. The first and second Los Super 7 CD's gave us a blend of Latino and Americana music, played with pioneering spirit. This third Los Super 7 CD just gives you Texas Americana. It is not particularly spirited or pioneering. Some songs are nice, but not more than that. Nowhere do the artists go beyond their normal scope. Furthermore, nowhere in the booklet the Los Lobos members, that to me formed the core of Los Super 7,are mentioned. Why aren't they here? Had I known beforehand I would not have bought this CD. The name Los Super 7 is misused for commercial reasons and the many fine musicians on this CD are not taken beyond there usual borders, which to me is the real betrayal. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Director Wes Anderson's jewel of a comic-character study revolves around the quirks and obsessions of Bill Murray's titular Cousteau-esque deep-sea adventurer and his motley crew of associates. As they did for the director's equally sublime Royal Tenenbaums, Anderson and music super Randall Poster stitch their eclectic source material into a warm, subtly focused new cinemusic whole. Mark Mothersbaugh's original Casio-baroque cues are the perfect complement for Australian film composer Sven Libaek's compelling slices of vintage exotica, while Ziggy Stardust-era David Bowie largely provides the musical subtext, either directly or in earnest, through live acoustic renditions by Brazilian troubadour/film costar Seu Jorge. Seasoning the mix to near perfection are smart, vintage Britpop contributions by Scott Walker and the Zombies, Iggy and the Stooges thrashing "Search and Destroy," the evocative Iberian fire of Paco DeLucia, and Joan Baez's dramatic read of Morricone'sSacco & Vanzetti theme, "Here's to You." -- Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (37)

Staralfur?
What an amazing film, soundtrack. Bowie's words move the film from scene to scene through one voice or another. Amazing, truely. As to why the beautiful Icelandic ballad, Staralfur was relieved from being the final track on this masterpiece of a compilation, is beyond my knowledge and reason.Yet, Bowie maintain the true emotion and meaning held so tightly by this film and it's creators.5 stars none the less.

I couldn't help myself
Wes Anderson is amazing, his films are spectacular and hilarious and beautifull and akward and representing everything that is good in the world.His soundtracks never fail to amaze me in thier ability to weed out wonderfull songs compiled from what sounds like a garage full of cardboard boxes filled with an enormous collection of 60s/70s records, ranging from legendary to obscure, and random mixtapes from friends lying around in his bedroom.The result is a compilation of songs that are sometimes beautifull, sometimes fun, but always quirky and offbeat in arrangement with eachother.And as Wes fans know, quirky and offbeat is Anderson's expertice. I don't think that Sigur Ros' "Stellafurr" would have thrown off the flow of the soundtrack, because Wes' flow isn't suppose to be a steady even beat and "Stellafurr", as beautifull as it is, is fantastically out of tune within the context of the film and soundtrack.The songs always work out in his master plan, perfectly representing the rythm and mood of his films.Mark Mothersbaugh's score is as usual, strange and funny enough to make me grin a little, standing it's ground even without support from the film (although used to a hilarious effect in the overall story) and Wes, never settling for predictable, linked the whole film up in association with David Bowie's music, obviously suggesting it to be the general music of the film by always having a portuguese singer playing Bowie songs in Brazilian in the background for no apparent reason, but doesn't Seu Jorge just make the songs seem new again?He pulls a fast one on you, but you'll love his chilled-out renditions and view Bowie's music through a totally different perspective. If that doesn't prove to the world just how cool Wes is, then I don't know what will.So, in closing, "The Life Aquatic" is a brilliant energetic leap from the mellancolly (but still hilarious) "The Royal Tenenbaums"."Bottle Rocket" was Wes' fast-paced take on summer, "Rushmore" represented the moody shift of light to dark and coping with being pushed into fall, "Royal Tenenbaums", his sad and heartfelt Winter (no seriously, the seasons they take place in even), and "The Life Aquatic" is the redeeming breathe of Spring.I can't wait to see where his new film, "The Fantastic Mr. Fox" will take us next. Of course, Wes can do anything and everything and make it look good.

Sensible Music.
I really enjoyed THE LIFE AQUATIC WITH STEVE ZISSOU.As visual-appealing and emotional-moving the film is, one of it's best things about it is the soundtrack.About half the songs on the album are David Bowie songs.Most of those are re-imaginings performed by Brazilian musician, Seu Jorge.Seu Jorge's performances have become the key selling point of this delightful album, but has so much more to offer.As much as I enjoy the Seu Jorge songs, I actually like the instrumental pieces composed by Mark Mothersbaugh better.There's something addicting to the keyboard-filled tunes.In fact, my favorite song on the entire album is the instrumental "Ping Island/Lighting Strike Rescue Op".A close second is the album's closing piece by David Bowie, "Queen Bitch."Add in a tune by Devo, some shark attack music by Sven Libaek, and a famed piece by The Zombies and it adds up to one very quirky and original soundtrack. Overall, this is a delightful soundtrack from an endearing movie that's worth the price to own.

Another brilliant soundtrack for a Wes Anderson film
I am totally enchanted by the music in Wes Anderson's films.Somehow, the chosen music is able to elicit such an emotional response.I've never been a fan of Devo, but the song fits the film so well that I've listened to it again and again.Seu Jorge makes David Bowie's somewhat harsh music soothing and soulful.Mothersbaugh's electronic tracks would not have had the same impact had I heard them without seeing the film.My only complaint is the lack of "Space Oddity" and "Ziggy Stardust" from the soundtrack.I really enjoyed Jorge's renditions of those songs in the film, and they were sadly absent from the soundtrack.

Question
Does anyone know what song was playing at the very end of the movie when Steve has the boy on his shoulders? ... Read more

Amazon.com

One need hear only the first notes of this collection--the Edge's ringing guitar notes ushering in "Pride (In the Name of Love)"-to be taken back to 1984: Ronald Reagan and Maggie Thatcher rule the Western world, the L.A. Olympics is the top sports story, and Ms. Pac-Man reigns at arcades. In rock & roll, there's U2 growing in stature with each new title. Even doubters of the Irish lads have to concede that together they formed the one '80s band with the skill and sense of scale to take over the airwaves and concert stages in a decade of diminished expectations. This 15-song '80s best-of assortment (stick around for the hidden track) spans the decade, reaching back to 1980's "I Will Follow," when Bono and company were peach-fuzzy and earnest as choirboys, and tracking their path through their most glaring misstep, 1988's overblown Rattle and Hum. --Steven Stolder ... Read more

Reviews (196)

You can't give a "Greatest Hits" CD 5 stars...
I was introduced to U2 with their song, 'With or Without You', so I bought the Joshua Tree. I got "The Best of 1980-1990" for a Christmas present, and of course, it's a great album. The reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because, of course, this isn't anything new! If you have over five or six U2 CDs, don't buy this! It's common sense. You might as well buy the other albums, because full length albums are better than compilcations. If you know someone who really likes U2's 80s singles, get this as a gift. There's absoultely no reason to buy this if you already have a few U2 CDs.

Other than that, it's a great CD, that takes you through their early days of rage, through their experiments with sounds, and ending with their hard driving America Rock of "Rattle and Hum." There are some things missing here, however, such as 'Gloria,' 'Two Hearts Beat as One,' and 'In God's Country.'

So, overall, if you're a die hard U2 fan, don't buy this. For the rest of you, get this if you'd like U2's hits without getting all their albums.

A solid, although uneven, collection...
Although one could argue that this isn't a "Best Of" as much as it is a "Most Well Known" collection of U2's eighties work, as a fan, I couldn't help but pick it up if only for the remastered tracks and remade version of "Sweetest Thing", originally the b-side to "Where the Streets Have No Name" (if you can still find the version of this compilation with the b-side disc, it's definitely worth the inflated price). Most of their earlier work is neglected...Boy has one track present, October has none (sacrilege!), and War has two. I can understand the lack of their lesser known singles like "Fire" and "A Celebration," but the absence of "11 O'Clock Tick Tock," "Gloria," and "Two Hearts Beat As One" is downright blasphemous.

"The Unforgettable Fire" is well-represented, with not only the definitive U2 anthem "Pride" ringing in the album, but the title track and the live favorite "Bad," which is the only track on the collection that was not released as a single. The three obvious picks off "The Joshua Tree" are here as well, but are somewhat more skippable in this setting.

The track list is rather good, if you excuse that the four Rattle and Hum selections (and as much as I adore "Angel of Harlem" and "When Love Comes To Town," they're a bit unnecessary here) that were just thrown on the end of the disc. The entire section from "Bad" to "Sweetest Thing" works surprisingly well.

It's not a bad place to start if you're new to the band, although you may as well just pick up "The Joshua Tree" and "Achtung Baby," which are far more rewarding experiences. There is only one new track (the live versions of "Bad" and "Bullet the Blue Sky" that the Edge once said would make it didn't), so it's a little light, and the edited versions of "New Year's Day" and "Bad" are just plain annoying, but the track order makes it very listenable regardless.

A 15 year search completed!
Ok, I'm not a rock fan and I definitely don't like that goth, misogynist stuff that rock is ruined with. Then I heard "With or Without You" some 15 years ago while scanning the radio dial and was captured. The lyrics and that guitar haunted me forever and crept up on me when I least expected it - was it Slash or was it Clapton, you see I knew nothing.

It was only after years of listening to classic rock radio that I became somewhat skilled at figuring it out for myself (no thanks to those radio jocks who NEVER tell you the names of the songs they play).

My first rock purchase was this CD and yes I am a green rocker but this compilation, for me, has it all - powerful lyrics and haunting riffs. I've worn out two of them already. Now with online help - website playlists, discographies and MP3s - I'm on my way!

Good, but...
How did 'Sort of Homecoming' and 'Two Hearts Beat As One' (among others) get left off of this? Disappointing...

Purposeless compilation of played-out FM radio fodder
The beginning drum cracks of "Sunday Bloody Sunday"... the sight of Bono walking down Las Vegas' Main Street with that ridiculous hat... the white flag at Red Rocks... how much longer do citizens of this great nation have to be tortured with such images (and their associated sounds) so that we can pad these guys' bank accounts? Enough of karaoke-era U2.

Give me "A Celebration", in its entirety, on CD, for good, RIGHT NOW.

I mean it.

You do NOT need to buy this CD. ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Wow
I'm a pretty picky person when it comes to music. I truly enjoy only a handful of bands, and My Chemical Romance has been in my top 3 for a while. I pre-ordered an autographed copy of this cd before it even came out, so even if it sucked I'd probably like it. Anyways, it's completely amazing, just like i knew it would be. I think it would appeal to more people than the first album "I brought you my bullets, you brought me your love", but i don't really see it in a 'sell-out' way. I guess it feels like the general demeanor is not quite as dark and brooding as the previous album.

Track 1 (Helena) is absolutely amazing. The first time i heard it, it reassured me that the album would be just as awesome as the first. 15/10

Track 2 (Give em hell, kid) I personally feel like it's a step down from Helena, but still pretty good. 9/10

Track 3 (To the end) is another one of my favorites, even though it probably wouldn't appeal to a ton of people. 10/10

Track 4 (you know what they do to guys like us in prison) isn't one of my favorites, but it's just awesome because Bert McCracken (of The Used) does some of the screaming and whatnot and almost anything he does amazes me. 9/10

Track 5 (I'm not okay)is the single, not really a song that stands out to me, but it's pretty easy to enjoy. 8/10

Track 6 (The Ghost of You) completely blows me away, it's much softer than most of the cd but it's a beautiful and emotional song. 10/10

Track 7 (The jetset life is going to kill you) is yet another great song, it's louder and faster than the previous song. 9/10

Track 8 (interlude) isn't what I expected, it's much better. Quiet music and Gerard singing very softly, it sounds really beautiful. 9/10

Track 9 (Thank you for the venom) is the 3rd song I previed off of this cd, and WOW. It's amazing. Back to being loud and fast, more punk-feeling than most of the cd. 10/10

Track 10 (Hang em high) is another one I enjoy quite a bit, it starts out kind of country-sounding and then breaks out into erratic, loud, obnoxious music. One of the only songs that Gerard screams on. 11/10

Track 11 (it's not a fashion statement, it's a deathwish) isn't one of my favorites, but I could understand it appealing to other people. 9/10

Track 12 (Cemetary Drive) is tied with track 1 for my personal favorite. Quite a bit softer than the majority of the cd, but with beautiful vocals and awesome lyrics. It's amazing. 15/10

Track 13 (I never told you what I do for a living) isn't one of my favorites, but it's actually a pretty good song. 9/10

Overall an awesome cd, ever since it was delivered to my house on the day it was released (June 8, 2004) it hasn't left my cd player. I'd recommend it to anyone.

Three Cheers for a Decent Album - Read for Advice
In all honesty, the new MYC cd is very, very good. In comparing it with their previous release, "I brought you bullets, you brought me love," I would argue that while both releases are great for different reasons, "Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge" might appeal to a broader fan base because of it's slightly more punk-pop songs.

With their first release, what you heard was a raw, emotional sound that was very near hardcore/emocore. I loved their first album and still lose myself on tracks like "Demolition Lovers" and "Cubicles". The sound is just a little less catchy and harder.

However, with Three Cheers, a much more evolved MYC displays a steady continuance of melodic power punk. Gerard Way soars with the same emotion and rawness that made the first release great, but the overall sound behind him sustains a much more poppier sound that moves in a far quicker pace than it's predecessor.

I'm not going to rate every song (even though I appreciate the reviewer's who do) but I will try to evaluate on content. For those who don't know, the album has a distinct concept: It's a love story that centers around man and woman that are both dead, and can be together provided the man completes the devil's work of killing a thousand evil men. If that's not creative, I don't know what is. Every single song tells a piece of the story, and as a listener, you must put the pieces together. I also heard Gerard was in therapy during the writing of this album...go figure...? A lot of people have previously docked MYC as another cheesy thematic band that only focuses on vampires and what not, but I think they are finally starting to receive worthy acclaim.

Bottom line, if morbid stuff like tombstones and dead people is your bag, then buy the album. Buy the album if you like good power-pop music in a severely mislead consumer society. Buy the album if you enjoy anger fuelled music with heavy drumming and incredibly emotional and raw singing. Lastly, buy their first release, which in my opinion, outdoes this one a little...

like it
my chemical romanc is a vry goo band...i liked their last album a little mor but i still listen the three cheers for sweet revenge all the time....i nver listene to post-punk or goth music but my taste in music has a changd a lot after listening to this band....

This is really good.
I understand why people like this band so much because normally I don't listen to this genre, and still it's not my style but I won't deny it's a good album.

good but their 1st was better
i love this cd, but they kinda did sellout on it a little bit and they're not as good anymore. i brought you my bullets, you brought me your love was much better. now theyve been doing mtv interviews and have commercials and i'm sure pretty soon they'll have theyre videos on mtv to. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Shins' sophomore album is a joy from start to finish, though it's rather different from their 2001 leftfield pop genius stunner Oh, Inverted World. That album was like a warm embrace from a long-lost pal. True to its title, all of the songs were of a piece, seeming to inhabit one landscape, with an invitingly similar sound throughout. Chutes is more far-reaching and decidedly eclectic. Each song is essentially its own genre exercise. There's singer-songwriter James Mercer's surprisingly Perry Farrell-ish wail on the almost indie-metal opener, "Kissing the Lipless"; the lovely pedal steel lilt to "Gone for Good"; the moody folktronica of "Those to Come"; and the Cars-gone-rockabilly riffing on "Turn a Square." The strongest song, the acoustic "Young Pilgrims," is stripped-down and brilliant. On every tune, Mercer packs more hooks and melodic invention than most bands do on one album. As a whole, it's an even better record than Inverted World. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (198)

Surpasses their debut "Inverted World"
I am a big fan of the debut Shins album "Oh, Inverted World." It's got a warm, fuzzy feel and the lyrics are leaps and bounds above many indie bands on the scene today. The follow up, "Chutes Too Narrow", is a nice step forward for the band. James Mercer's vocals are on full display, no longer hidden inside reverb and multiple backing tracks. It's just him, singing his heart out, and he does a great job. This album is about the same length as their first, barely surpassing the thirty minute mark. Ten tightly focused tracks take you on a joyous ride through Mercer's remarkable lyrics. The standout tracks, "Kissing The Lipless", "Saint Simon", and "Gone For Good" are spread evenly across the album. Genres are across the board. Gently strummed acoustics are traded often for walloping guitars. "Turn A Sqaure" sounds uncannily like a Beatles tune. The only real let down is the album closer, which is a little bland in my opinion. Overall, an impressive sophmore effort from one of the best band's around. If you want the exact same sound as their debut, you'd best look elsewhere. These guys are growing by leaps and bounds.

How do the Shins do it?
I love the Shins, so this review may be a little biased, but I don't care. Everyone should listen to this band. Their sound is like nothing I've ever experienced before. "Chutes too Narrow" is different from their debut, "Oh, Inverted World," but in a good, no great, way. If you liked that cd, then you will definitely like this one also. It's almost impossible to find anything wrong with it! The songs on this album are great from start to finish and after listening to it, you can't help but feel that much happier about anything.

The chords and melodies are so beautiful (i.e. Saint Simon, Pink Bullets). So, Says I is my favorite track and I can honestly say that it is one of my favorite songs of the last few years. And believe me, that is saying something. It's just that good, jeez...this album renders me speechless. I go to bed to it every night, I just cannot get enough of James Mercer's magical vocals and the riffs. Oh, the riffs. This is an example of great music that is completely creative and unique.

If you consider yourself a fan of good music, then you need to get this cd and "Oh, Inverted World." If you've never heard of the Shins, then it's time to be awakened. Your life will be changed for the better, trust me. Get ready to be amazed by the originality and perfect display of music that you are about to be graced with.

This is really, really good
Ok, when I picked this cd up, I knew absolutely nothing about it. It's possible that I'd read a review for it in Rolling Stone, but the point is that I bought this cd on vague curiosity alone. If vague curiosity has ever been rewarded, it was that day.
If I had to choose a genre in which to place this album, I'd have to think about it for a long time and then throw up my hands and say "the really good music genre." Each song seems to have some kind of formula -- there's always an acoustic guitar, and almost always some drums, and every once in a while a new instrument will make a cameo. Other than that, every song is easily discernable from the others on the album, somewhat of a rarity in my experience.
The real treat here is James Mercer's lyricism, which does a brilliant job of not only providing each song with its own mood and story, but also serving the song as an instrument in itself -- the sounds of the words he sings are just important to the song as the pitch of Mercer's voice.
All in all, Chutes Too Narrow is an excellent cd that exceeds all expectations -- it did for me, anyway.

Best album i've bought since Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
I can't even describe how great this album is. You just have to buy it, put it in your CD player, and be blown away - just like I was.

My new favorite
I was skeptical about this band at first but have grown to love this album. There is not a single song that I don't like. The lyrics are excellent and the tunes are very catchy, yet not too popish. I can't understand where people are coming from who write bad reviews for this CD, and usually when I buy a CD I can see the jist of both the good and bad.

Sure these type of songs have been done before, but the way that they're done make the best set of tracks I've heard in a while, and it still sounds fresh even if it sounds familiar. It is a very fun album to listen to, especially after the second or third time. Like I said there is not a single bad track on the album. I would give it 4-1/2 stars though for being so short (which disappointed me the first time). What is better though, short and sweet or long and boring?

I won't name any bands but I have bought a series of bad CDs in 2004 from major artists and then this one from a previously unknown band (at least to me) finally broke the string. It's refreshing, to say the least, and has renewed my faith in modern music. Maybe that's saying too much but I honestly think it deserves it and is not overhyped.

Who should avoid buying this album? People who don't like independent bands that explore different genres, don't like catchy tunes, or people who simply hate the SUB-POP label and everything it stands for. ... Read more

Amazon.com

There has always been something about John Darnielle’s lyrics; even when you’re not exactly sure what he’s talking about, it always feels like he’s telling it like it is. Not that metaphor is a major player on The Sunset Tree, the latest album from the Mountain Goats (of which Darnielle is the founder, frontman, and once only member.) Songs like "This Year," "Dance Music," and "Hast Thou Considered the Tetrapod?" are painfully honest about his traumatic childhood and abusive stepfather. You might think that an album about child abuse would be hard to listen to, but as always, hearing Darnielle's lyrics is an honor and a privilege. Trying experiences are captured with deceptively simple statements (is there any better expression of determination than "I will make it through this year if it kills me"?) On this CD, Darnielle also remembers revered (yet cocaine-addled) reggae star Dennis Brown. ("It took all the coke in town to bring down Dennis Brown. On the day my lung collapses, we’ll see just how much it takes.") Though the Mountain Goats have apparently done well enough for Darnielle to quit his day job as a nurse, they don't yet have all the fans they deserve. Don't wait to join the fold. --Leah Weathersby ... Read more

Reviews (10)

John Darnielle, where have you been all my life
I heard John Darnielle interviewed on NPR.Based on what he said and the performance of "Love, Love, Love", I bought the CD. When I arrived home, I listened to The Sunset Tree while I worked in the yard.Later that afternoon, I listened to this CD again, and was able to focus on the incredible lyrics.It's Tuesday, and I've been listening to this CD at least once a day since Friday. I can't get enough!!

simply perfect
I bought The Sunset Tree a week ago, sight unseen and note unheard.I listened to my other purchases first, since I was relatively familiar with them and knew what I was getting.Then I peeled off the celophane and popped in The Sunset Tree.No idea what to expect... I thought, upon the first notes of You or Your Memory, 'my god what an awful nasal voice'... then- 'oh.'Then lying on the floor watching the ceiling fan turn thinking, 'this is the most perfect album.There is no other way for this to be.'I am a self-employed artist and listen to music all day, and into the evening, as I work.This cd makes it hard to go to bed at night.It would almost be better to just sit still by the stereo and listen, over and over again, to this quiet steel masterpiece.I can't say enough, but it would be too much.Just buy this, and save yourself an afternoon or two or three, to really listen to it.

Indeed
I found the Mountain Goats about 3 years ago, becoming a huge fan in a short time.Only I couldn't put into words the reason why, until now.I read an article by Sasha Frere Jones (Yes, it's true, the Mountain Goats are now exposing themselves to the world in places the archetypal MG fan is expected to be - NPR, bookslut, the Times).In Jones' article (and for the following he is my new favorite person) he was explaining my taste in music to me, much to my delight.I'll just give the tagline: "For John Darnielle...the point of making music is to communicate."

She mentions Beck in point of contrast.John Darneille's greatest strength may be his need to be understood.Beck's lyrics, wonderful though they might be, don't allow you entrance into them.They're doors locked.You can't have an interaction with a Beck song, unless your idea of interaction is trying to talk to a robot who's been programmed full of non-sequitors, and spits them out for half an hour, with choruses, leaving the other end frustrated.Or a schizophrenic who has flashes of insight, but quickly follows them up with the most utterly senseless drivel, making you wonder if the flash was a mere fluke.

"You gotta drive all night just to feel like you're okay."
"Yeah, I know what you mean."
"I just found me a bottle of blues."
"What's that?"
"I just found me a bottle of blues,"
"I'm sorry, I thought you said..."
"I am a paper tiger"
"Huh..?"
"Torn apart by idle hands."
"Yeah but...What?"
"We rock the salt, corroded to the bone"
"..."
"Stealing kisses from lepers faces"
You cross the street, thankful that the man in the crosswalk box lit up just then and there, as the hobo starts in on no one.

John Darnielle is Beck's inverse, and with a proper band, his equal pop-musically.

Jones also describes him as having less to do with rock in its present state and more to do with hip-hop m.c.s, "writing lyrics in complete sentences and delivering their songs emphatically"...a point I'm sure all MG fans and John Darnielle felt absolute joy in reading, as happens when hearing something that hits the nail directly on the head when you're searching for your misplaced hammer.

I just realized I haven't talked about The Sunset Tree.All I have to say is, The Mountain Goats are getting better, and it's kind of scary, in that really exciting way.

Darnielle, by the way, also has incredible stage presence, if you get a chance...just incredibly witty, and nice and interactive.He gives just the sort of enthralling performance you'd expect from someone who writes songs like these.

Rejoice!And we are on our way...

A Triumph
This record is a triumph in every sense of the word.IF THERE WERE EVER ANY "stops" in John Darnielle's works they have all been pulled in The Sunset Tree.Exquisite arrangements and musicians with passionateintensity and shared vision carry this story of an abusive relationship to heights unheard of in this day of musical fluff and flash.Darnielle's songwriting has never before been so consistently on-target and downright beautiful.The entire record is a revelation with my favorites being This Year, Up the Wolves, Hast Thou Considered The Tetrapod,Song For Dennis Brown, Love Love Love and the heartwrenching Pale Green Things. Perhaps this will be the record that gets Darnielle the recognition he so richly deserves.

Check out cellist Erik Friedlander + John Vanderslice too!
I'm a long long time Mountain Goats fans, from back in the day when he was putting out cassettes on Shrimper, and I have to say, this is a huge step up for John Darnielle -- very possibly the best record in his entire discography.

Just last night I saw him play at the Knitting Factory in New York, and part of me wants to say that one of the *reasons* he's stepped up his game so much is that he has finally found a team of musicians to truly capture the intensity of his always great lyrics. (The fact that he's finally singing about the child abuse that's surely the source for that holy fire also seems to help, too.)

Anyway, I'd suggest checking out not only the rest of John Darnielle's discography, but that of his contributors -- Erik Friedlander's solo record Maldoror, John Vanderslice's solo stuff (Erik plays on a new record coming in August), Shearwater, et. al.

Maybe people only listen to music for the vocals, but if you've been as impressed as I have by the MUSIC behind The Sunset Tree, you might enjoy all these discs. ... Read more

Album Description

"A showcase for new music that’s fallen under the mainstream radar." ("All Things Considered," NPR, April 24, 2004) Musically the hippest show on TV, "The O.C." spawns the edgiest album yet from the unprecedented Music From The O.C. series. Headlining Mix 4 is a new song from alt-rock superstar Beck, "Scarecrow," co-written and co-produced with The Dust Brothers, and "Decent Days And Nights" from post-punk pop’s The Futureheads. Two other tracks also debut—chamber-pop quintet Matt Pond PA unveils its cover of "Champagne Supernova," the mid-’90s #1 Modern Rocker from Oasis, and ethereal alt-rocker Imogen Heap (half of the band Frou Frou) offers "Goodnight And Go." Music From The O.C.: Mix 4 is as sharp as Marissa and as cool as Seth. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

The perfect cure for the Obsessive Compulsive!
"Mix 4" is the latest soundtrack from the FOX television sensation "The OC". Once again, this great collection of songs blends soothing mellow rock, with pop, dance, rock and ballad to create a beautifully diverse and enjoyable listen.

The music of "The OC" has gained considorable respect over the short couple of years, acting as the main launching pad for great artists including Death Cab, Jem and The Killers. Because of this show, and its terrific soundtracks, Mellow Rock and Alternative have certainly become two of my favourite musical genres.

So once again, producer (and creator of the show) Josh Schwartz has intoduced more fantastic artists, along with their wonderful songs. I know everyone has their tastes, but for me, my Top 3 songs would have to be:

1) "Cartwheels" - by The Reindeer Section: This is a soothing mellow rock song. It has beautiful musical arrangement, as it includes string instruments, which add a great melodic stength to the song.

2) "Eve, the Apple of My Eye" - by Bell XY: this is a moving ballad which has gorgeous piano chords the whole way through. The lyrics are also very metaphorical.

3) "Champagne Supernova" - by Matt Pond PA: this is a cover song of Oasis' original rock classic. This version is very well done, with energetic electric guitar and a string arrangement at the end, which adds real depth to the song.

Other great songs include Sufjan Stevens' "To be alone with you" a calm, and relaxing mellow song. It's beautiful! To lighten things up, it features a "dancier" track, "Play" by Flunk.

So as you can see, there is terrific range in the songs, from very slow all the way to very up-tempo, "The OC: Mix 4" is yet another brilliant soundtrack from the equally fantastic show! This is the perfect cure for an "OC" Obsessive Compulsive, such as myself! I can't wait for the next installment!

Excellent
I am a large fan of The OC and every Thursday night I am watching the show. I used to think it was stupid until my girlfriend got me watching it and my friend let me borrow Season 1 on DVD and I was obsessed. The same friend also purchased this CD and let me borrow it and it is awesome! I love the music in The OC because I am into this type of music, like indie and emo, etc.

1. "Decent Days and Nights" by The Futureheads- 2.5/5
An alright start to the album, but nah, it's not the greatest song. Still decent though.
2. "Goodnight and Go" by Imogen Heap- 3.5/5
At first listen I thought it was too "pop" music sounding but now I like it a lot, it's catchy and nice to listen to.
3. "Fortress" by Pinback- 5/5
Probably my favourite on the album. It's an excellent song and I listen to it often, Pinback is a band worth looking at.
4. "On The Table" by A.C. Newman- 4/5
Good song, catchy, and one you can sing along to even on your first listen to it.
5. "To Be Alone With You" by Surfjan Stevens- 4/5
Soft, nice, and beautiful. A good OC song featured on a romance scene.
6. "Play" by Flunk- 3/5
Okay, the woman's voice is sort've drony, but worth a listen.
7. "Scarecrow" by Beck- 4.5/5
Excellent song, Beck is the man. I am a large fan of Beck and was happy to see a contribution by him on this album.
8. "The View" by Modest Mouse- 5/5
Another great song. Again, I am a large Modest Mouse fan and after seeing them live at the club on The OC, I was happy they received a spot on the album. A faster sort of a song.
9. "Hardcore Days and Softcore Nights" by Aqueduct- 3/5
A good song, but not a fan of the vocals on the song. Maybe after a few listens I might like this song more, because when it seems like a song that could take a few listens to enjoy.
10. "Cartwheels" by The Reindeer Section- 4/5
A happy, peaceful, relaxing song. Nice to sit back and listen to.
11. "Eve, The Apple of My Eye" by Bell X1- 5/5
Excellent song! At first I thought the vocals were that of Thom Yorke from Radiohead. Amazing job done on this song.
12. "Champagne Supernova" by matt pond PA- 4/5
An excellent cover of the Oasis masterpiece, although I like Oasis' version one million times better. matt pond PA did an excellent job.

All in all, a great album, it has it's ups and downs. If your a fan of indie/emo music, get this album. If your a g-unit rap-fan who likes The OC, don't get this album.

Seth would be proud.

Anyone For Angst?
The fourth installment in a great series of indie-flavoured soundtracks, the OC: Mix 4 strongly reflects the way the show itself has been lately - a bit more sombre and mellowed out, where the parties don't seem to be quite as frequent, and when they are - they're disasters.While there are a number of excellent tracks on this album, I found it didn't quite live up to the other soundtracks, but still, its a great buy.

What I mentioned about the mellowness is true.Very few of the tracks channel any sort of get up and party emotion - although Futureheads "Decent Days and Nights" gets the album off to a rocking start, and Modest Mouse's "The View" is a bit more on the upbeat side.

Truth be told, what really stands out on this album are the slower, angst-ridden songs - of which there are plenty."To Be Alone With You" is a very soft guitar number, "Cartwheels" is all about the dreamy harmonies, and "Eve, The Apple of My Eye" is a sweet Brit-pop esque rock ballad."Play" by Flunk ups the count of women vocalists on this album to two, in a sorta psychadelic style.Matt Pond PA lends a somewhat uninspired but altogether enjoyable cover of Oasis' "Champagne Supernova" as the closing track, which fans of the show will remember played as Summer & Seth reunited.

The rest of the album is mostly mid-tempo rock/emo/alternative/indie tracks - with two particular shiners.Imogen Heap's "Say Goodnight and Go" is a nice electronica turn that hasn't been explored much yet on the OC soundtracks - and rivals her excellent track on the Garden State album as part of Frou Frou."Fortress" by Pinback is also excellent, to the point where these guys have crossover options if they want.

All in all, this album is much more subdued, and doesn't offer quite as many 'gems' as the previous soundtracks - however, it is still a great addition to the OC collection, and even better, your music collection.

more indie gems from TV's coolest soap
I would have bought this CD just for the song by Imogen Heap (of Frou Frou, and by the way when the heck are they going to put out a new disc?). Fortunately, as with the rest of the "Music From the O.C." series, this one is filled with gems from popular as well as semi-obsucre indie artists, and will introduce fans of the show to musicians who deserve a wider audience.

I'm not entirely sure who's responsible for selecting the songs for this series, but whoever it is has an ear for talent, and the entire series of CDs has helped me discover artists such as Jem, the Doves, South, the Album Leaf, and now with this latest release Pinchback and a genius named Matt Pond PA, who delivers a sparkling cover of Oasis' "Champagne Supernova."

Whether you're a die-hard fan of the show or you can't tell the Coopers from the Cohens, do yourself a favor and buy this CD today. And then do yourself another favor and buy the CDs of the artists it features.

Nearly As Good As Mixes 1 & 2
Mix 4 offers much of the same terrific music as the first two OC mixes.The songs are great for listening to while doing just about anything (entertaining, driving, working out, relaxing, etc.).I gave this CD four stars -- as opposed to the five stars I gave Mixes 1 & 2 -- only because I didn't find as many "WOW" tracks on this disc as I found on previous albums.Still, it certainly beats most commercial pop/alternative music that is available these days, and it will fill out your "OC" iPod playlist quite nicely. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Radiohead's third album got compared to Pink Floyd a lot when it came out, and its slow drama and conceptual sweep certainly put it in that category. OK Computer, though, is a complicated and difficult record: an album about the way machines dehumanize people that's almost entirely un-electronic; an album by a British "new wave of new wave" band that rejects speed and hooks in favor of languorous texture and morose details; a sad and humanist record whose central moment is Thom Yorke crooning "We hope that you choke." Sluggish, understated, and hard to get a grip on, OK Computer takes a few listens to appreciate, but its entirety means more than any one song. --Douglas Wolk ... Read more

Reviews (1469)

The Best Album of the 1990s
From someone with very broad, eclectic, and rather dubious tastes, its not a small thing to name an album the Best of an entire decade. But even giving due consideration to the greats that emerged from the 1990's, there is -still- no doubt in my mind that this is the album, alright. THE BENDS hinted at good things to come, but OK COMPUTER is quite simply a tour de force that blows away all expectations.

This is a slow and deliciously textured album, every song building up a collage of eerie noises, merging without warning into schizophrenic mayhem, dancing on the dark side of the moon for a while, and suddenly being swallowed by a cascade of little blipping computer noises. The music is superbly melodic, expressive and - a wonder in modern rock - above all, new. Instead of regressing to techno cliches, Radiohead opted to build a monolithic, surrealistic masterpiece out of a cross between DJ Shadow-style cut-paste and the dreamy little licks Johnny Greenwood spins off his guitar. This is not to say OK COMPUTER is a wholly lightweight piece of work. Many of the songs still feature the deliriously loud, fuzzed riffs that were so prominent in Radiohead's earlier efforts. But the raw, energetic pieces and the slow, moody pieces don't fight each other. Instead, they stand out, each offering a foil to the preceeding. The overall effect is - dare I say? - psychedelic.

OK COMPUTER has been called a DARK SIDE OF THE MOON for the 90's. While the similarities are striking - both are landmark progressive albums for their decade, of consistent quality and staying power - Radiohead does not -sound- like Pink Floyd, per se. The kinship lies more in the attitude which frontman Thom Yorke seems to share with Roger Waters, a kind of morbid humanism that is at once romantic and cynical. Perhaps the starkest illustration of this is "Fitter Happier," a concept piece midway through the album in which a computerized voice reads a litany about the yuppie lifestyle, to a background of slow, mournful piano and an array of horror-movie sound effects. When the robot's speech is over, it segues seamlessly into "Electioneering," an anthemic rocker condemning modern politics.

As if the sheer art of this album weren't enough to impress, it's also blessedly listenable. OK COMPUTER is one of the few albums that does not become tiresome with repeated listenings, and indeed, you'll find yourself with a new favorite track every week. Quite simply, if you don't own this album, you should. Like THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON and like SGT. PEPPER'S, it is a landmark in music. When, three decades from now, another generation discovers the 1990's, this is the album future music fans will be digging up to spin.

A Tricky Task To Review
Every possible opinion in existence has been had by somebody with regards to Radiohead. Still, larger than the loyal demographic who actually purchases (and proactively listens to) their albums is the demographic which holds Radiohead with a substantial amount of respect in their minds. "They do their own thing with integrity, never sell out, and make good music."

So here's just another person's shot at objectifying one of their most "artistically accomplished" recordings. Be forewarned, there will be some - gasp - opinions...albeit educated opinions...in my opinion.

"Ok Computer", and Radiohead in general, is not prog rock. This is what's so frustrating when trying to "categorize" (all the hardcore fans can now raise their glasses)their music. Why categorize? Pigeonholing is by no means the ultimate goal, but even when developing one's own convictions about this music so he or she can encapsulize it into a review, it IS a head-scratcher that Radiohead is more or less a rock band - and you better damn well call them progressive.

But I found a way to crack the case. Think back to music 101 - the basic elements of ALL music are melody, harmony, pitch, volume, rhythm, spatial placement, - and TIMBRE (the particular characteristic of a sound that distinguishes a trombone from a clarinet). It is this latter characteristic that has been Radiohead's primary tool for shaping their music, bascially starting from this 1997 recording. From the beginning fluid line of "Airbag" to the closing strains of "The Tourist," people have been drawn to this album - and Radiohead - for the band's talents at sprinkling so much electronica over their "rock and roll" and yet maintaining a mind-boggling human emotion aesthetic. It's as if two poles that should normally resist each other somehow defy the laws of physics. Now we can start giving the album some stars.

"Let Down" and "No Surprises" are the moments when all of the stars align. These songs feature a marriage of sensitive songwriting, harmonic innovation, and stellar atmospheric paintings. Along with crafty compositions like the well known "Paranoid Android" and "Karma Police",the soul from years gone by has stayed alive in rock and roll, but it is moving onward at the same time. That is what a great album SHOULD do, and the fact that most of the other songs are just as good (and the pace of the album has an uncanny flow to it) makes me start thinking "historically significant recording."

But hold on there - those that want to analyze no further and accept Radiohead as the "best band ever" are blindly still getting sucked into the mainstream of the underground. This album gets much praise for artistically forging ahead - in a time where it's either Thom Yorke or the teeny bopper bands - but there's a whole lot of music out there that deserves the fight for the 5th star much more than these guys. I would plead for you to hold back from the negativity until you really check into what I'm talking about. Porcupine Tree, OSI, and Chroma Key, as examples, all have quite a bit up on Radiohead. Those bands are REALLY good, also trying to pave new ground while never veering from what they strongly believe in. But unlike Radiohead, they also have TREMENDOUS musicianship. And I'm sorry. But if you have the sound of the future, AND you can really play, you're going to keep my attention longer. "Paranoid Android" goes off into some jamming, and there are some very intersting musical ideas in "Subterranean Homesick Alien" and "Exit Music". But all in all, if you are really hungry and are given the choice of a lonely chicken wing or an entire chicken, what in your right mind will you choose? Only problem is, you never really considered looking to eat a whole chicken. (I can see it now, 'reviewer tries to compare Radiohead to a wing'). Don't get lost in the metaphors - just know that if you think Radiohead is really that great, you've probably never even heard of Chroma Key. Probably because regardless of who you are, popularity (nomatter how big or how small) will ALWAYS be an ingredient in the music choices people make. And I'm no less guilty than anyone else.

The bottom line is, I listen to this album over and over, having to try too hard to get into it. It speaks to me, but not nearly as strongly as I'd like. It's a shame, because one whisper from Mr. Yorke can be worth a thousand piece choir. And the lyrics are SOOOO amazing. The album IS really good, but it leaves me wanting. I need more. And so do many others out there.

It's not a bad thing, but Radiohead is not prog rock. It's just with their style of music, they would be better if they were, and too many people out there are trying to unfairly blur the line (isn't it blurred enough?). There are much better musicians out there with comparable hearts and ambitions. If you look elsewhere, you don't lose a Radiohead; rather, you gain some more awareness. And if you like this album, that means that you do not consider awareness an irrelevent factor.

"Ok Computer" belongs in anyone's cd collection. Given that you're reading about Radiohead, that means there's a hell of a lot of worse things you can be doing with your time. Peace.

Genius.
This is the exception to the rule that the music on the radio from my generation sucks. This is purely wonderful music, of genius caliber. Radiohead, with each song and album that the release, will simply put you into a state of awe. This are five seriously talented musicians. Thom Yorke(lead singer) is a modern musical genius, and his other four bandmates (Colin Greenwood, Johnny Greenwood, Ed O'Brien, Phil Selway) work together to produce a sound that no other group of musicians has ever done. Radiohead is a band that will be remembered for generations to come, and OK computer is the pinnacle of their work. Radiohead is a name that will be remembered along with the likes of The Beatles and Pink Floyd.

THE BEST RADIOHEAD ALBUM EVER
When one is looking for an album to satify all tastes of the tounge, OK Computer delivers, and with style. This album is haunting and yet beatiful when the graceful chords of No Suprises or Exit Music (For a Film) fill one's ears. But then blasts out a pure rock song such as Electioneering (which in a way does not have the same lyrics as a regular rock song). Then there is obviously the fear and depression of looking into the mind of a mental patient in Climing up the Walls (Thom got the idea for this one by working in a mental instiution). And of course who could forget the song that takes this whole album and encapsulates it in a 6 minute epic by the name of Paraniod Android.
Yes, this may be the best album of the '90s, and I believe that it is just the begining of the praise this album will receive.

OK....They have been plugged straight into the mains
Radiohead have always created complex and exciting rock. OK Computer now defining the laws of rock and roll and giving us more complex melodies and structures. This is very fitting for Radiohead because they have always tried to push their songs just that little bit further. Its very different from Pablo Honey and The Bends.
'Ok Computer' is packed with beautiful and melodic songs. Thom expressed himself that he tried to be a different person on every track, it shows. For example, the tortured torment he portrays on 'Climbing up the walls' is very different to the lulling 'No Surprises' - an instant classic.
The whole album is very varied in styles but not in quality, as all tracks stand out as strong and intricate 'art-rock'. Any one of them could have been a single.

1) Airbag - Brilliant introduction into the album, the song that reveals the wonderful way in which 'an airbag saved my life'. Very strong and some brilliant phasering effects.

2) Paranoid Android - The best song i have heard for some time now. Radiohead melt art-rock, solemn acoustics and hard rock, all into 6 and a half minutes of pure genius. Definitely one of the best songs ever written.

3) Subterranean Homesick Alien - One of my favourite tracks on the album. A mixture of calming rhodes piano with mystifying guitar effects to give you the feeling you have really been abducted by aliens.

4) Exit Music (For a film) - This song is played at the end credits of the film 'Romeo and Juliet'. Beautiful, almost baroque style. Strong, with haunting keyboard effects and a strong pulse until the end.

5) Let Down - A soft and wonderful mellow piece with the mention of squashing bugs and transport. Beautiful.

6) Karma Police - The trade mark 'the karma police will get you' track. A very Radiohead-like song. Brilliant hook-line, 'this is what you get, when you mess with us'.

7) Fitter Happier - A joke track Thom did on a Mac. Features the Macs monotone voice explaining a better way of life. Very funny.

8) Electioneering - Powerful political rock, a raging riff with furious guitars. One to play full blast!

9) Climbing up the Walls - Somewhat gothic and tortured as Thom's voice is distorted, which to me fits the song superbly. Strong yet elegant piece which includes some of Jonny's radio tuning at the beginning.

10) No Surprises - Swaying and lulling track, beautiful in every way. 'No alarms and no surprises please'

11) Lucky - Superb rock track with brilliant rhythmic guitar and a great riff by Jonny. Another of their classic songs.

12) The Tourist - Written by Jonny. A very slow tempo song with a beautiful melodic feel, almost the same feel you get from listening to No Surprises. Thom's vocals are persistent and continuously gorgeous.

THIS ALBUM IS A MUST FOR ANY MUSIC FAN. IF YOU ARE A RADIOHEAD FAN, YOU MUST OWN THIS ALBUM, THERE ARE NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE IT YOU HAVE THE LISTEN TO IT YOURSELF. 10/10 ... Read more

Amazon.com

A spark of redemption illuminates even the darker songs on Mercy Now, the fourth album by Mary Gauthier (pronounced "go-shay"). The influence of her native Louisiana pervades her Southern Gothic songcraft, which first won an audience in the folk clubs of Boston. After a series of releases on independent labels, her Lost Highway debut seems destined to expand that audience significantly. Within her mature, weather-beaten artistry, Dylanesque metaphysics go to Mardi Gras on "Wheel Inside the Wheel"; the naked emotion and eye for detail of "Your Sister Cried" and "Empty Spaces" conjure comparisons with Lucinda Williams; and the plainspoken "I Drink" and "Drop in a Bucket" have the bittersweet bite of the best of John Prine. The spare arrangements of producer/guitarist Gurf Morlix, punctuated by cello, organ, and harmonica, give the material plenty of room to breathe. Gauthier's vocals are half-spoken, half-sung, and all soul. --Don McLeese ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Out of Nowhere! (or not...)
I can't believe that I had never heard of Mary before this album. I listen everyday and never tire of her music or her voice. Had Kris and Janis had a love child, this is how she would have sounded...the best of both.

Mary is Simply Incredible!!!
My wife and I are long-time, hard-core John Prine fans. So, when we bought our tickets to see him in June in Chicago we noticed Mary Gauthier (say go-shay y'all!) was opening for him.

We went out and grabbed Mercy Now just to be sure we were familiar with John's opener. MY GAWD! This album is just amazing! I can't believe we have missed out on her music until now.

Mary is at the top of her game writing and performing songs as great or greater than any of her heros did in their own prime! I NEVER expect to like more than 50% of a new CD (even by my favorite artists) but I LOVE every cut on this CD!

The only complaint I have is her other three CDs are kinda hard to find. I ended up buying all three from the company linked from her web site. (And yes, they are awesome as well!)

Don't even give this a second thought - buy this CD and get ready to listen to nothing else for the next week!

Mercy, Mercy Me
Listen to this album a few times, and a number of the songs will burn themselves indelibly into your brain.The songs are bleak, but the songwriting is of the highest order -- each image is exactly apt.Her voice is a perfect match for the material, as well.

FBI Warning!
I heard Mary Gauthier interviewed and the album previewed on NPR. I am not a C&W fan but was taken with her interview and the raw intensity of the tracks I heard.

The CD just arrived.My only complaint: the very cheaply and poorly printed CD label is dominated by a reversed out 'FBI Anti-Piracy Warning' that consumes probably 50% of the label.

I initially thought it was part of the label art. It isn't.

It is an insulting, tacky and supremely ineffective step by her record company. If anything a real provocation to pirate it, from my POV. Fortunately for them I wouldn't know how to!

"Just say she's a rhymer, and rhymers get restless"
I am probably the last person you would expect to be enthusiastic over what is billed as a 'country' album.Whatever that is.But, for some reason, I've heard 'Mercy Now' four times in the past five days, and if country music always sounded like that song, I would be listening to a whole lot more of it.I would call Gauthier's work country/folk and the in name for that definition seems to be Southern Gothic, a genre name that doesn't make a whole lot sense to me.But the songs on this album, they make sense to me, as they would to anyone who loves carefully crafted, gritty lyrics.

Yes, these are often dark songs.Yet somehow the upbeat peeks through almost unexpectedly.Mercy Now and Prayer Without Words are good examples of that.In other words, they may be sad, but they aren't hopeless, and that little bit of a hook will grab you every time.There is a subtle spirituality here as well - listen to Wheel Inside The Wheel, for example:

Souls ain't born, souls don't die
Soul ain't made of earth, ain't made of water, ain't made of sky
So, ride the flaming circle, wind the golden reel
And roll on, brother, in the wheel inside the wheel

This is interesting work, even if, at its heart it is still about broken relationships, human disasters, being down and out, etc.And there is intelligence behind the lyrics, and a real artistry behind the songs.Give it a listen and you'll see what I mean.

Gauthier has a true Southern whiskey voice, complete with edgy whine.And yet it is capable of a surprising number of colors, from really down and out to gently caring, and oh yes, just a dash of pointed sarcasm.I Drink is a masterpiece of the latter.In an interview, Gauthier mentioned that she often rewrites a song several hundred times, and this level of craftsmanship shows everywhere.

This will probably be my one and only country album, but it is surely one I'll listen to often. ... Read more

Reviews (43)

The music is great! The message powerful.
I first heard this CD when my son brought it home from a Casting Crowns concert. I borrowed it and never gave it back. I put it in my car CD player, and it stayed there for over a month. I never got tired of it. The message is in your face, and the music ranges from somber and reflective to joyous. The female back up singers add a great compliment to Mark Halls lead vocals. The song "Praise you with the dance" has an awesome almost celtic violin solo that just lifts you up. The whole CD is fantastic and after seeing them live in concert, my wife and I bought 3 more copies to share with our friend and family for Christmas.

Mark Hall is the youth pastor at his church and still holds that position. For him and the band, its all about sharing the messege of faith. The band is actually the Youth praise band at his church. Music runs in Marks family. His father is our music minister at our Church and Mark even took time to sing in our choir at our Christmas concert at Church. He practices what he preaches. It doesn't get any more real. The power of the music can be awesome. When I saw them live I was so moved I had tears in my eyes. Thank You Casting Crowns.

Every song is a winner, you can't go wrong with this CD.

Casting Crowns Don't Dissapoint
I feel I must be honest here and admit that I was at first skeptical about buying this cd. But from the very first time I slipped this into my cd player and heard the first song, all skepticism washed away, and I was hooked.
Mark Hall, the lead vocalist, delivers some powerful vocals ("What If His People Prayed", "American Dream") and yet can also tone it down with more subdued vocals("Who Am I", "Your Love Is Extravagant")which give the album variety. Having a female vocalist also keeps the record jumping, however, I must agree with a previous reviewer who mentioned that the last four songs didn't have the quality of writing like the first six did. "Your Love is Extravagant" was a great way to end the album, but the three previous songs just don't really fit with the rest of the record. Having said that, although the album would have been better if the writing and songs had been more consistent and flowed better together, this is still a great first album. This is also one of the only cd's I've liked from the first listen. Usually it takes time for cd's to grow on me. All in all, I highly recommend Casting Crowns. I look forward to watching them grow as a band in the future.

Awesome!
I heard the song 'If we are the body' a while ago. I liked the song a lot, but I never got around to buying the cd. Yesterday I heard the song 'Who I am' on the radio. I loved it! Then my drama team at church, we were coming up with new ideas for dramas, and one of the songs that our leader had an idea for was 'What if his people prayed' I fell in love with that song instantly! I went and bought the cd and I haven't stopped listening to it! I totally agree with the song...what if God's people prayed? It would be amazing!

Amazing!
I got this CD after hearing Who Am I and If We Are The Body on the radio. I was a little dubious at first, this being the first CD they've put out and all, and it was the cheapest CD in the store I was at, so I figured that it wasn't moving well because it wasn't good. Boy, am I glad that I decided to buy it! Casting Crowns is an amazing album and an amazing band. What if His People Prayed is an eye-opener, and American Dream hits home all too well. Life of Praise and Here I go Again are amazing as well. The only real complaint I have is that Glory and Praise You With The Dance are way too similar. I originally thought that they were one ultra-long song, instead of two not-quite-so-long songs. All in all, more than the five stars I can give it. Worth every penny!

best cd ever!!!!
this is the best cd i have ever heard...casting crowns mixes a nice beat with some awesome lyrics...this is the one cd every person should have ... Read more

Amazon.com

The debut of thundering supergroup Audioslave--featuring members of Rage Against the Machine post-Zack de la Rocha with ex-Soundgarden singer Chris Cornell--is as much curio as fascinating blend of visions. Cornell might be outnumbered, but his unmistakable holler and nihilistic imagery ensure that Audioslave, the album, recalls early Soundgarden. That's especially true since de la Rocha took Rage's signature rap and politicking with him. Still, if this is Soundgarden, it's Soundgarden set to stun. Rage guitarist Tom Morello is more of a mauler than Kim Thayil ever was--witness "Shadow on the Sun," which moves from bruising thud to psychedelic freak-out and back again--while the Rage rhythm section of Tim Commerford and Brad Wilk anchor the bottom end with pure instrumental cement. Intentionally or not, "Gasoline" bears passing resemblance to "Rusty Cage," while the sweeping "I Am the Highway" and slow-burning "The Last Remaining Light" best showcase Cornell's surprisingly New Age-y lyrical bent. Cover art by Storm Thorgerson, who gave Pink Floyd records their distinctive stamp, underscores the set's inherent celebrity. Fans of Rage and Soundgarden can raise clenched fists in unison, for Audioslave is win-win. --Kim Hughes ... Read more

Reviews (836)

Audioslave
Five years after the breakup of Soundgarden and three years after the release of Euphoria Morning, Chris Cornell is back. But now he is backed by one of the strongest groove bands in rock music today, Tom Morello, Brad Wilk and Tim Commerford, who were formerly in the band Rage Against The Machine. This unexpected collaboration has formed an extremely strong, new style. Their sound ranges from atmospheric, with Cornell singing resplendant melodies(of haunting themes), backed by a Morello's trippy, delay soaked guitar, to bone-crushingly heavy. Cornell and Morello have a sonic connection in which the vocals and guitar seem to be one entity, moving together, soaring and decending, screaming and whispering. All the time, Tim and Brad never fail to lay down a rock solid groove. In my opinion, this is the best album of the year. If you don't own it yet, buy it! It is the essential rock album of 2002.

Quite good-but sounds like a supergroup, not a polished band
Audioslave, the collaboration of surviving RATM members and former Soundgarden singer Chris Cornell, brings lots of sound and fury. Unfortunately, the record as a whole doesn't signify anything greater than its parts. This is not to say it's not a good record. At moments, it is spectacular, easily some of the best rock 2002 offered. The opening 1-2-3 punch of "Cochise", "Show Me How to Live", and "Gasoline" are hard to match, as are the more classic rock sounding standouts, "Like a Stone" and "I Am the Highway". The rest of the album, unfortunately is not quite on par; they're all solid songs, but they often sound unfinished and more like a side-project and not a band that plays comfortably together.

Some critics have described Audioslave as RATM with Chris Cornell singing, or Tom Morello playing guitar with Soundgarden. Both such descriptions fit. On their debut, they sound like a supergroup, not a polished band. Even Morello himself seems to have lost some creativity. His guitar riffs still resonate, but even they seem to flow too closely to Sabbath's riff catalog. In the end, the guitar virtuoso seems to have somewhat run out of ideas. The glue here in this collaboration surprisingly is Cornell, whose emotive singing breathes life into the dirgy, thick material.

Taken against other modern rock, Audioslave is amongst the elite. Juxtaposed against either of their former bands, both Soundgarden and Rage packed more punch and left a greater impression. Still, any and all from either band or their respective band members is worthwhile. Recommended.

Good for Rage fans, awesome for Soundgarden fans
This is the collaboration of the recently disbanded Rage Against The Machine and Chris Cornell, the incredible voice of the also broken up Soundgarden. So, you would think they might make a record that's got a heavy funk rhythm section(RATM), with a powerful rock vocal(Cornell), wouldn't you? Well, no surprises here. That is exactly what you get, and I like it.
For those of you who were fans of Rage, it all depends on why you were a fan whether you appreciate this record or not. If the real appeal for you was Zach De La Rocha's rap-style vocal more than the bombastic groove of the band, then you may not enjoy this release as much as I did(and still do). With Cornell on the mic you get Soundgarden-like song structure, but you still have the perfect groove of Rage. These songs are MUCH less political, and more radio friendly.
This is usually a bad thing when it comes to hard rock. So many bands lose their edge when they try to appeal to a more mainstream audience, but I don't believe that's the case here. The edge is still there, just not in every track. These songs aren't experimental in an instrumental sense, or a lyrical sense. They are just typical, serious, well-crafted, straight forward rock songs. We even get quirky guitar wiz Tom Morello playing a straight forward acoustic-like track (see "I Am The
Highway"). His experimental playing takes a backseat to Cornell's haunting vocals on many of these songs. I think that Rage realizes what they have in Chris Cornell, and they want to showcase it. All lyrics were written by Cornell, and this is very obvious. In one of the best tracks on the release("Show Me How To Live"), Cornell rants "Nail in my hand, from my creator, you gave me a life, now show me how to live." An incredibly powerful lyric, but very different than the Rage lyrics.

All in all, I think the Soundgarden fan will enjoy this much more than the Rage fan. And, fans of just plain good music should enjoy most of this release. Your getting an extremely talented band doing what comes naturally with the situation they have. It's not all good, but for the most part it has a lot to offer.

Check out these best tracks: "Cochise","Show Me How To
Live","Gasoline","What You Are","Set It Off", "I Am The Highway", and "Like A Stone".

OVERALL RATING (1-10;10 being superior): 6
For more Dr. Music reviews, visit www.new-sounds.com/DrMusic

Everything sounds the same on here
The three hits from this album, "Cochise", "Like a Stone" and "I am the Highway" are all good, but not great. Chris Cornell's voice has clearly gotten better since Soundgarden, but he doesn't do his signature yell nearly enough. The instrumentals just seem lazy to me, and don't live up to Rage standards. Also the eleven other songs seem to be trying to imitate one of the three songs I have listed already.
I give the CD three stars because it still is quality rock music, and sadly better than 95% of the other Rock music out there today.

How could something that looks so great on paper go so bad?
Rage Against the Machine and Sound Garden were both awesome bands apart from one another, they had completely different styles and sounds and thats how it should have been, after the demise of these 2 bands when I heard about Audioslave I was all for it, it would be like the coming of 2 amazing bands molded into 1, but alas it wasn't to be. After hearing the minor hit Cocheise I lost some of my faith for the band but I still had hope that it was first single jitters...then I heard like a stone. This song sucked abysmally, it pissed me off more then anything, it lead me to champion for the return of rage and garden, because this song was nothing of what these bands used to be, long drawn out moody songs COMING FROM FORMER RAGE PLAYERS?! THIS IS WRONG!! And with that song it signaled my now hatred of Audioslave, personnally if Sound Garden doesn't get back togeather oh well thats a shame, but if Rage doesn't get back togeather then its a crime because they are needed, because now more then ever political bands are need to help sway the mind of a country needing a regime change. ... Read more

Album Description

The follow-up to their mega-successful debut is no less brooding and intense, but charged with flashes of color and romance. "Antics" infuses Interpol's dark musical landscapes with new optimism. ... Read more

Reviews (47)

It's quite good.
Breaking Benjamin's new album is solid, no two songs sound the same on here. They keep a really varied style through this one, and it makes for one of the best albums I've bought this year.

The good stuff- The first 4 songs are excellent. "So Cold" is a great opener and first single. It's the best song on here in my opinion. From listening to the beginning of "Firefly", you'd think it was just a continuation of "Follow", but when the verse starts it changes pace and becomes completely different. It's also one of the best on here. Ben's singing is good all around here, it's always good when somebody can go from melodic singing to a harsh scream in a couple seconds (as in "Believe"). The songs are all well-written, and musicianship is good here too (The bass playing stands out on a few songs).

The bad stuff- Well, it's short. It's under 40 minutes, and not that there's anything wrong with short CD's, but I think there's more potential here that hasn't been shown. "So Cold" is a very progressive song, and the rest of the CD doesn't seem to quite break the same ground. Not every song on here is memorable. Other than that, it's good.

Conclusions- It's a good solid hard rock album. They have changed their sound a bit from "Saturate", which is a good thing that they've expanded on. There's some (softer) experimental stuff on here in "Forget It" and "Rain", which aids in the variation on the album. Overall, I'd recommend it to anybody who likes hard rock (stuff like Finger Eleven, Default, Nickelback, and too many other bands to list).

Benjamin Is Far From Busted
I firmly believe that Breaking Benjamin will rise above the cluster of other great rock bands of the new millenium (i.e. - Stereomud, Earshot, Seether, Three Days Grace, Ra, Saliva, etc). Not quite sure what it is, but the sound the band emits is uniquely their own. The guitars are hard. The vocals are crisp and audible. The drumming is steady and the bass is the backbone... sometimes just thumping along, other times thunderous. Ben (the 'broken' one) Burnley has his hand in writing all the songs along with the help of his bandmates, Markus James (bass), Jeremy Hummel (drums) and Aaron Fink (lead guitar). "So Cold" is their first hit of 2004. Other hits should follow. CD liner notes include the lyrics. My picks for other groovy tunes are "Simple Design", "Firefly" and "Break My Fall". I like this 2nd release of Ben's much more than last year's raw "Saturate". It's a bit more mature (dare I say 'commercial') and much more polished. This disc was supervised and mastered by the master himself, George Marino. Also - if you can , search for the 'limited edition' package containing 4 bonus 'live' songs not found on this album. Great buy at the low-low price. Pick up "We Are Not Alone" and be the first to spread the rumor to your hard rocking friends. Absolutely no filler to be found - every track is good. No rap, hip-hop, unabated screaming, death metal growling, or Linkon Park nu-metal wanna-be's.... this is ROCK in it's purest (not including the last track - mellow & acoustic), most simplistic form. Excellent disc and one of my favorites in 2004.

absolutely amazing
I have quite a sizable music catalog, probably more than 60 cd's and i have heard some great albums in my 16 years, but after owning this record for less than a week i am convinced this is the greatest cd i have ever heard, this thing is absolutely phenomenal. i mean it is beyond belief. from the opener "so cold" to the last song, the amazing ballad "rain" each of these songs will amaze you. They rock out in some songs and in others have ballads that could be on mainstream radio right now. i paid $12 for this cd, i would pay $100 for it. You have to go buy this thing.

This Cd Rock's
I just got it today for so cold and follow and the rest of this cd is great, the person that said breaking benjamin is under rated is right, This band is great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Amazing...Underrated
Breaking Benjamin is one of those bands that comes along every so often, which is not very often, that takes the music and tears it up. They are SOOOO underrated that it makes me sick. Their music is unreal, their lyrics are straight to the point, they are not fake, and they are an amazing band. These guys need to be made heard by the public. Yeah, Polyamorous was on the radio a few times, and had a video on MTV, but in my opinion, thats the 5th or 6th best song on that CD...LETS SPREAD THE WORD OF THESE AMAZING ARTISTS... ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Revolver wouldn't remain the Beatles' most ambitious LP for long, but many fans--including this one--remember it as their best. An object lesson in fitting great songwriting into experimental production and genre play, this is also a record whose influence extends far beyond mere they-was-the-greatest cheerleading. Putting McCartney's more traditionally melodic "Here, There and Everywhere" and "For No One" alongside Lennon's direct-hit sneering ("Dr. Robert") and dreamscapes ("I'm Only Sleeping," "Tomorrow Never Knows") and Harrison's peaking wit ("Taxman") was as conceptually brilliant as anything Sgt. Pepper attempted, and more subtly fulfilling. A must. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (570)

Close to perfect
Of all the Beatles' albums, Revolver has probably aged best. 'Yellow Submarine' is a dud, pure and simple, but this set makes up the band's greatest achievement. Capitol's exploitative policy of subtracting a few tracks from one Beatles album to whack onto the next was never more despicable.

'Taxman' kicks off the set admirably, although Harrison's lament jars a bit - I mean, why is he complaining about paying his fair share of tax, anyway? Is this the same bloke who wrote 'Living in the Material World'? Still, this track, along with his other contributions (4 & 10), demonstrate how far Harrison had come as a songwriter.

Lennon and McCartney were at their top here. Macca's ballads (2,5 ,10), helped along by some fine Martin arrangements, are probably the best he ever wrote, stopping this side of schmalzy, while Lennon's major contributions (3, 7, 14) are quite brilliant. (Although it's probably the soundscape of 'Tomorrow Never Knows', mainly courtesy of spooky tape loops and a huge drum sound, that makes it such a standout.)

'And Your Bird Can Sing' and 'Doctor Robert' are often described as weak tracks, but I can't find too much wrong with them. If nothing else, the former boasts fine harmonised lead guitar parts.

The sounds which the Fabs, producer George Martin and engineer Geoff Emerick were able to coax from ageing studio hardware are remarkable. Macca's close-miked bass is right up there in the mix, clear as a bell, Ringo's drums sound terrific even today, and there are interesting guitar sounds everywhere. As well, Revolver extended the experiment with backwards parts which had begun on 'Rain', and is used to great effect here. The musicianship, particularly McCartney's bass playing, is great throughout. Honourable mention to R. Starkey for 'She Said She Said'.

Bookended by two magnificent double-A side 45s ('Rain'/'Paperback Writer'; 'Strawberry Fields Forever'/'Penny Lane'), this album is demonstrably the Beatles' creative peak, and you can see why Brian Wilson was inspired to go one better with Pet Sounds. Essential.

Majestic and Groundbreaking
When I first bought REVOLVER, on vinyl in the 70's, I was astonished. A Beatles album with more songs by George Harrison than John Lennon??? I didn't realize then I was getting a truncated American version of what the band had assembled in England. Three of John's songs -- "I'm Only Sleeping", "And Your Bird Can Sing" and "Dr Robert" -- were plucked from the album and put on a collection called YESTERDAY AND TODAY -- that's the album with the notorious butcher cover. The release of the Bealtes' library on CD finally gave us North American Beatlemaniacs the "real" REVOLVER -- and what a magnificent, groundbreaking achievement it was! George's music matured here, with "Taxman" being one of his best and "Love You Too" representing his first (and best) excursion into full Indian instrumentation (although he'd played sitar on John's "Norwegian Wood" on RUBBER SOUL). Paul McCartney offers some of his best-ever compositions on this album. "For No One" and "Here There and Everywhere" were exquisite -- and "Eleanor Rigby" remains a classic of its kind. The soul-tinged "Got To Get You Into My Life" was also first rate. But as usual, the best, and most groundbreaking, offerings were from John. "And Your Bird", "Dr Robert" and "She Said She Said" are further livened up by some great Harrison guitar work -- he shines throughout the album. And Lennon's closing track -- the mind-bending "Tomorrow Never Knows" -- is the summit to which the entire CD ascends. A great way to finish this album (and to hint at what would come next year -- SGT PEPPER). Maybe the best pop/rock album of all time.

VH1 says Revolver is the greatest album ever...Really
Oh,its true,thousands of music luminaries voted revolver the greatest album of all time,while it came in at number 3 of all time on the rolling stone poll. The results are cast in stone,Revolver is one of the all time greats,and all polls say that thats the truth!!!

Really?
"really tuneful...really whacky...really psychedelic...really social...really unusual..." yeah.

There are only a few songs on this album that reflect the greatness achieved by the Beatles pre-1965, which is sad. Nowhere near albums like Help or A Hard Day's Night.

Great album!
I loved this album from beginning to end. It's full of great music written by the greatest band of all time. Songs like "And your bird can sing" and "For No One" reminded me why I love this band so much. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Having nearly exhausted their capacity for pop-song politics on War and The Unforgettable Fire, U2 turned toward themes of personal identity and complex relationships on The Joshua Tree. Not that the group was willing to come down off the barricades entirely: "Mothers of the Disappeared" and "Bullet the Blue Sky" turned a jaundiced eye toward Central America and the United States' role there. But the predominant mood here is one of self-discovery and the hunger for something more on tracks like the pulsating "Where the Streets Have No Name" and the gospel-ish "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For." The album's masterstroke, however, is "With or Without You," a nasty love song dressed up as an ode of devotion and care. It ranks with the Police's "Every Breath You Take" as the most misread smash hit of the '80s. --Daniel Durchholz ... Read more

Reviews (323)

U2's Joshua Tree is essential listening!
In 1987, a Rolling Stone reviewer called this album, "unforgettable" and certainly if it is not just that, it comes damn close. U2's "Joshua Tree" is a modern rock classic.

That said, it is a bit difficult to put a finger on what makes this album so spectacular because it is not groundbreaking, it didn't introduce a new sound to the masses, and it was done by a band that was already getting some notice for its previous works, War, October, and Boy, respectively. Likewise, from such a definition, there seems nothing atypical or notable about this recording that would make it stand out from the rest.

The reason this album is spectacular is because it is so cohesive, honest, and beautiful. The album yielded four singles that blew up on album-oriented rock radio ("Where the Streets Have No Name", "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For", "With or Without You", and "In God's Country") but in truth, this was not a singles album at all. U2 got it right on this one, and wrote eleven spectacular songs that flow easily from one track to another, and are all pristine and notable in their own right. Specifically, "Bullet the Blue Sky" features a soaring 55 second guitar solo courtesy of the Edge, "Running to Stand Still" features some plaintive Bono crooning, and final track, "Mothers of the Disappeared" is simple, subtle, and beautiful.

Spiritual, uplifting, dark, introspective, and honest all at once, U2's "Joshua Tree" is in many ways the group's swan song, the album that brought their music and politics to the masses to stay for good. It is an unquestionably a modern rock classic, and an album that belongs in everyone's music collection.

It Has Grown On Me
A while back I had written a scathing review on this CD as at the time, I really found many of these songs to be overplayed and the instrumental stylings to be quite bland. At that point, I thought of U2 as the most overratted band on the plannet.

After listening to the entire CD a few times, I admit that my initial assessment was way off. Some of the less commercial tracks on this CD are quite touching most notably One Tree Hill, Running To Stand Still, and Red Hill Mining Town. The harmonies on the chorus on the later piece are the highlight of the album.

Then of course, there is the intense soloing by the Edge on Bullet In The Blue Sky and the eerie mood on Exit. Bono's vocals are pretty cool on these tracks as well. I even admire the fine crafting of the hit singles With or Without You and I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For.

U2's political somewhat angry tone is not always totally pleasing to me over the course of an album on a relgular basis. However, I can certainly appreciate the beauty within many of their songs and would recommend this and Achtung Baby as two prime U2 recordings.

A Timeless Classic
"The Joshua Tree was the album U2 HAD to make, the only one they COULD make"

Those are the words of Eamon Dunphy, author of "Unforgettable Fire - The Definitive Biography of U2", on U2's process of making a new record in 1986 and early 1987. That might sound like an over-dramatization for a rock record, but once you've heard the record, that thought goes out the window. This record, U2's exploration of America, is one of the quintessential rock records ever recorded. It is, varying with opinion, U2's masterpiece of masterpieces. Since this album was recorded back when it was still 'ok' to talk about records in the context of 'sides', I will say that every song on the first 'side' of this record is a classic. 'Where The Streets Have No Name' with an intro that ranks with the best of all time, 'I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For' with a theme of longing that anyone can relate to, 'With Or Without You'(my favorite U2 track), one of the most popular breakup songs ever, 'Bullet The Blue Sky' with its hypnotic talk/chant at the end at Edge's furious and passionate solos, and 'Running To Stand Still' with its atmosphere of deep pain being held in. The second 'side' was comprised of lesser-known but no less mesmerizing songs: 'Red Hill Mining Town', 'In God's Country', 'Trip Through Your Wires', 'One Tree Hill', which was written for roadie Greg Carroll, who died in a motercycle wreck running an errand for U2, the dark and moody 'Exit', and the mournful and haunting ballad closer, 'Mothers Of The Disappeared'.

This record catapaulted U2 in a realm of superstardom seldom seen by any band. They were not expecting it and they were taken by surprise a bit. I own this record on vinyl, cassette, and CD, and I even have the 'Classic Albums' DVD for it. This album has that quality about it, that sets it apart from from all other albums that don't pocess it. What quality is that? This was the first U2 record I ever heard, and I remember listening to it for the first time at age 13, and thinking to myself, before the album was even half over, 'hey, whoa, this band is one of the best ever'. That's the quality. Just like when you listen to 'Revolver' or 'Abbey Road' or any record of that quality, before it is even finished, you know the band is one of the best ever. I was completely blown away. It is a draining experience, one that will leave you exhausted when the album reaches its conclusion.

Spiritually, emotionally, lyrically, musically, commercially, U2 reached their peak with this record, and it was a peak they would remain on for a while to come, starting with the "Joshua Tree Tour", their biggest tour to date at the time. And not only did U2 reach their peak, but it is also important to note that on this record, Bono reached his peak as a singer. For U2's whole career up to this point, he had progressively improved as a singer with each outing. On this record he made the leap from being a very good rock singer to being one of the great rock singers of all time. I submit he is still the best, most emotional, most evocative rock singer of his time.

And though that tour would eventually lead to U2 being sick and tired of their current form, and to the brink of a breakdown, that was still a good two and a half years away. At this point U2 were excited to be as popular and relevant as they would ever be, which, incidentally gave them the leverage to pull stunts like the now legendary liquor-shop-roof-quasi-show during which the 'Where The Streets Have No Name' video was shot. U2 had arrived.

Their Last Irish Album
My four-star rating for U2's "The Joshua Tree" is indicative not of my opinion for the whole album but of five songs in particular. While most of the tracks on this album are good, there are five particular songs that are outstanding. They are: 1) "Where the Streets Have No Name", 2) "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For", 3) "With or Without You", 4) "Bullet the Blue Sky", and 5) "In God's Country". These comprise one of the best pentuplets of songs ever recorded on one album.

"The Joshua Tree" was the last Irish U2 album. On their next offering, "Rattle and Hum", U2 embraced the bluesier American sound that they have exhibited ever since. "The Joshua Tree" offers the sound that U2 had before making it big in America. This album is about as far as U2 could have gone with their old sound also.

There are of course the many political songs that U2 is famous for on this recording but which they (thankfully) have not recorded much of since. They are at their best however when dealing with common everyday emotions. Bono is better at being a rocking politico than he is at being a political rocker.

Classic!
U2's 1987 Masterpiece is simply that. Great songs written and performed with real passion and talent. U2 are one-of-a-kind! If you don't have this or haven't heard it before, do yourself a huge favor before it's too late because any music fan won't want to miss this great band and incredible album. One of the few bands that can make an entire album of good songs rather than a few hit singles. A must own for every U2/music fan! ... Read more