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Vancouver techno-pop enterprise Delerium may be most widely known for getting Sarah McLachlan played in dance clubs; the famed songstress lent her vocals to their 1997 hit "Silence." DJ Tiesto's familiar dance-floor overhaul of the tune sets the pace for the double-disc compilation Odyssey, on which a procession of remix artists chop tracks from Delerium albums Semantic Spaces (1994), Karma (1997), and Poem (2000) into lengthy workouts. The selections favor straight-up disco and house over the sort of ambient experimentation that might have been culled from the original material. But the dub-styled "Flowers Become Screens (Return Mix)" and--on the spacier second disc--a goth-tinged take on "Silence (Fade's Sanctuary Mix)" offer a breather from the collection's rather athletic nature. Besides a clutch of previously released tracks, Odyssey also includes rare mixes of "Underwater," "Euphoria (Rabbit in the Moon's Divine Gothic Disco Mix)," and "Heaven's Earth (Matt Darey Remix)." And Delerium's trademark ethereal guest vocal tracks remain largely intact, so you can float and dance at the same time. --Kieran Grant ... Read more

Reviews (28)

All Delerium, All Remixed
Delerium is one of those rare bands that succeed in getting me hipped for a new release. Ever since I bought KARMA two years ago, followed by their 2000 release, POEM, I have become an official fan of their synthy pop fusion with gregorian chantings and world infections. So once I found out about a forthcoming remixed album I nearly sky-rocketed through the roof of my house. I love Delerium yet I also thrive on the pulsating beats of techno and electronica so the exploration of this ODYSSEY was highly anticipated, and nay was I once disappointed or left feeling empty upon questing. It wasn't until a couple weeks after I purchased this, though, that I began to worry if it had really been worth my money. I searched everywhere for a playlist yet it was nowhere to be found. And then when it did appear it only had songs from their more recent albums SEMNATIC SPACES, KARMA, and POEM, which was sort of a letdown. I'd been expecting remixes dating all the way back to their darker more industrial days as well as their newer more lighter material. Instead they've chosen 8 different songs to be remix by professionals such as DJ Tiesto and Matt Darey, including Silence (3xs), Underwater (2xs), Heaven's Earth (2xs), Innocente (2xs), Euphoria Firefly (1x), Duende (2xs), Flowers Become Screens (2xs), and Incantation (1x).

In the beggining I completely agreed with many other reviewers that thought it ridiculous having remixed two, sometimes three versions of the same song but after hearing this CD several times through I couldn't disagree anymore. No one song sounds alike to another for (whether it be techno, disco, electronica, or heavy dubbing) they're all in their own varied styles; nor do any of the rhythms linger on one continous vibe. It's everchanging so you don't have to worry about it being dull or redundant, despite the constant "re"mixing... I actually prefer some of the remixes over the originals, such as Innocente which tends to get annoying. My absolute favorite song on here is probably a tie between Incantation and Flowers Become Screens (the frequency modulation mix), which both come from their SEMNATIC SPACES cd. So I suppose the overall feel of this Odyssey would have to be overwhelming, which in this case is a positive thing.

NOTE: The development of ex-delerium Rhys Fulber is a very ethereal mixing of Sarah Brightman's A Whiter Shade Of Pale. He (as well as Kristy Thirsk) are also working with a group called Balligomingo - which is similar to Delerium - so look out for it. ...

Read the cover
The cover says Delerium: Odyssey, the Remix Collection. It does not say Delerium: Odyssey, the Album. Most Delerium fans will not like this double CD set as evidenced by the other reviews listed.

However, if you enjoy electronica and dance as I do, then this is just what you're looking for. One of the most popular tracks, DJ Tiesto's version of Silence, starts it off. Both Heaven's Earth remixes are noteworthy, as are the two Innocentes. Not every song is perfect, mind you, but considering there are two discs here, there is more than enough to make it a must buy. I wish they had released this sooner instead than forcing me to scavenge for their past singles which only had one or two good songs on each.

Be sure to pick this up if you like Tiesto, bt, Chicane, or Ferry Corsten.

Take a Beautiful Adrenaline Journey
I admit that I'm no authority on Trance music. I do know what I like and don't like. This CD I LOVE, but let me tell you why. OK first off, listening to CD1 I wasn't all too impressed, but still entertained. I then popped in CD2 with lowered expectations and WOW was I IMPRESSED!!! To me, this is Trance music at it's best... a beautiful adrenaline journey of high energy mixed with layers of gorgeous, dreamy vocals. I'm no Sarah McLachlan fan and am actually sick of her over-played songs but these mixes work with her vocals wonderfully. If you are a big fan of Sarah M then you will for sure want this CD set. This set is an audible journey I will gladly take over and over.

Get Your Favorite Remixes from Singles
There are several problems with this album. First of all, most remixes are too long and too repetative. Some tracks are simply the original voices of the performers poorly married to a boring techno beat. The second problem is the overlapping tracks: each song begins on a previous track and ends before the track ends transforming into the next song. Admittedly, some Silence remixes are very good and I wanted to make my own compillation (even edit the songs to begin and end in the right place). However, the disk seems to have some kind of protection against copying, so I could not do even that. My advise: don't buy this, but try to get all Silence remixes on other disks.

a mixed blessing
I agree with many of the reviewers who have pointed out the somewhat repetitive nature of this work. The work could have included more diversity in the songs and my preference would have been for some slow versions. Why does "re-mix" always seem to translate to dj's showing off their dance track skills with the heavy backbeats. For such an extraordinarily adventurous band (who, by the way have already proven themselves masters at electronic/dance ala Front Line Assembly) to venture into an arguably formulaic mold is slightly disappointing.

Negative aside, this work - for what is - is strong, with flavorful, interestingly arranged grooves and pushing-the-envelope sounds that infinitely please. The choice of female vocalists is expert, as is the interplay of human touch with machine throttled energy.

If you want a revved up version of these deleriously delicious dance demons, then this is the one. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

It's okay
I thought about 3 of the songs were good. #2 is my favorite and that is why I bought the CD, Hippychick is a song I haven't heard since I was 10 yrs old. It's been great to hear it again after 13 years of not hearing it. That guitar begining was something I was never able to get out of my head. Overall, the CD is okay, not great, but I still like track #2!

Still one of my favorites...
I still love this CD as much as I did when I was in high school...it contains a little something for everything - fast & upbeat; melancholy & lyrical; techno-esque beats and fun lyrics. Not too deep, but good "convertible" or "summer music"

Soho's Cuff Sisters are now members of Copenhagen
Hey, if you're missing the exquisite vocals of Jacqui and Pauline Cuff, the voices of Soho, they are alive and recording with the group Copenhagen in the UK. They still have their great twin sound. I hope Amazon will soon add Copenhagen to their inventory. Currently, the Cuff sisters are singing with Neil Henderson who leads the group. Tim London, who produced Soho and played guitar is still the preferred producer for Copenhagen---so the gang is alive and well in the UK as Copenhagen. Check them out!

Very Hip Effort !
One of the best pre-alternative/soft hip-hop/trip/hop bands to come out of the early 90's. Too bad after only two or three c.d.s Soho became "so long".

All sentimental sincerities aside, Goddess proved to be more of an underground success from the U.K. then a top 40 mainstream pop band for commercial consumption. A good thing, too; This only showed that Soho did it more for the art than the industry. When I heard the female lead singers (the Cuff sisters) before seeing their video, I had a strong mental image of the two resembling a couple of Anglo American gals ( a look between Joan Osbourne and Sarah McLachlan or Alanis Morissette).Was I surprised and delighted to find out they were from England of Negro descent with closely shaved heads and a free-style artistic experimental attitude !

The entire album does not contain a single toss out track or tune based on mediocrity. It possesses an almost retro-feel of the 60's with 70's and 90's musical pop influences. Soho only produced three albums, Noise, Goddess and Thug. Skip the first and last one. Goddess is a Godsend !...

Shake your thang...
It's amazing how new and fresh 'Goddess' still sounds, ten years after it's release. The funk and vocals remind me of such current R&B acts as Missy Elliot, Toni Braxton, and Lil'Kim. Their second release 'Thug' went off the far end and seemed too preachy. The last I heard of them was off the Scream soundtrack remaking "Whisper to a Scream." Where are they now? ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Excellent collection from an underrated, visionary band.
After LUSH only got a one disc rush-job of a b/o release, I was happily surprised by what CURVE fans got with this set. Having a DVD of their promo videos would have been even better (to say the VERY least) but it doesn't take away from this superb collection. It doesn't surprise me that Toni & Dean haven't found huge mainstream success. They were "alternative" before the term lost its meaning in the mid-90s. (trust me,the "shoe gazer" label was worse and they didn't fit that at all!)They didn't sound like anyone then or now. BUY this collection! If you love goth, electronica and strong, sexy, female vocals- you will be in heaven.

Best UK band ever. Period.
Ignore the first rather hysterical (and elitist) review on these pages. This is not a collection that's been released solely for the benefit of die-hard fans. This double-CD set attempts the envious task of summing up the last 12 years of a band who have never once compromised their art for extra sales, while attempting to appeal to both old and potential new listeners alike.

Even if you ARE a die-hard Curve fanatic, there is plenty here for you. All the tracks have been newly mastered and sound better than ever before. The presence of all three tracks from the super-rare German-only "Superblaster" single (a CD that fetches three-figure sums on Ebay!) are worth the money alone. And new track "In Disguise" is utterly sublime and proves that Curve are still pushing frontiers and are not the one-dimensional has-beens that the moronic UK press mostly continues to brand them.

To newcomers (or old fans who thought Curve had dropped off the radar in 1994), if you're unsure whether to purchase this or not then do yourself a favour and hunt down a cheap copy of the incredible "Gift" from 2001 (that you lucky US peeps got months before us in the UK!). Then come back and re-apply here. You will not regret it.

Fantastic Collection
This is one of the best overviews of any band I've seen. The first disc compiles remastered singles from the whole of Curve's career while the second disc compiles remastered b-sides & rarities (most hard to find & some never released before on compact disc)! The tracks on the second disc were selected by fans via Curve's website (www.curve.co.uk) so if anyone's unhappy with this release, they should have voted!

complete rehash! such a shameful waste!
DJDust is an ass kissing sycophant, hence the glowing review for a heap of crap.

BEWARE: only the most naive listener will be fooled into purchasing this double disc set. longtime fans need not apply seeing how all tracks have already been issued on CD, some tracks many times over. this set was also supposed to come with a DVD of videos (the only real selling point as far as i am concerned, as well as 100s of other Curve fans!) but no DVD is in sight. such a pity seeing how the video DVD would have made for awesome sales.

certain tracks on this set (i.e. Sinner) were JUST released on a previous Curve CD. i find it insulting to include rehash on this new set, seeing how any real Curve fan will alrady have these tracks on disc. Curve has been known to rehash the same song/b-sides under the disguise of a new CD sleeve or some sad, generic artwork. tragic!

is it any wonder why Curve have fallen through a crack in the earth and landed in some subterraean universe where no one really cares about them anymore? damn sad, seeing how this band had SO much potential but completely blew it over the past few years. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Obviously I had on a different radio station in the 80's
I had my car radio on for most of the 80's, but the only tracks in this collection I remember getting serious airplay was "Turning Japanese" by The Vapors, "Kids in America" by Kim Wilde, and Naked Eyes' cover of "Always Something There to Remind Me." The last of these always struck me as an attempt to jump on the Phil Collins white guy covering soul hits bandwagon. The "Living in Oblivion" title is certainly appropriate: most of these songs could be as new to you as they were to me. There are no buried gems here, but there are several decent tracks: "Too Shy" by Kajagoogoo, "Talk Talk" by Talk Talk certainly rise about the second-level techno songs that dominate the album. How much you enjoy this album is simply going to be a question of how well it matches up with what you remember listening to in those golden days of yesteryear. Check out the list of tracks: If you find six or more songs you remember fondly, then by all means, pick this puppy up.

How do you build an 80s compilation?
Like the other four entries in the Living in Oblivion series, this disc is pretty hit and miss. There are some great, now-lost tracks here, ones that I'm happy to have on disc again (Too Shy, Always Something There to Remind Me, Turning Japanse, Kis in America, 19, etc.). And then there are songs that I never heard in the 80s (and by around 1981 I was listening to a LOT of radio), and I don't think I was missing much.

If I had my way, I'd try to condense the 5 CDs into 3 -- there are enough gems to fill three CDs easily, and about 2 CDs worth of songs that I would just as soon see slip back into oblivion.

Great CD! Total Flashback!
If you liked dancing back in the 80's you'll remember all these songs... how fun!

Gong back to highschool
Good music. Gotta love Turning Japanese by The Vapors!

What you missed on US radio
Leans hard to the Europop sound of the 80s. BowWowWow, Classix Nouveaux - bands you didn't hear on US radio and won't hear about on Behind The Music. Shiny,Shiny doesn't turn up much on 80's stations, either. Enjoyable Ira Robbins editorial, too. ... Read more

Album Description

UK budget-price compilation for the British alternativepop-rock act. Highlights include two versions of theirfirst single, 'Revolution Baby' (including the ElectraGlide Mix), two versions of their hit cover of Holly & TheItalians' 'Tell That Girl To Shut Up' (including theKnuckle Duster Mix) & two versions of 'Baby I Don't Care'(including Abigail's Party Mix). 2002. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

aesthetic nihilism
this music is so vacuous it almost breaks you heart, but it sounds so F-ing good. "baby I dont care" is one of the most nihilistic bubble gum songs of the 1980's.

hey sister moon...
transvision vamp is a band i remember, but never really heard during their peak. mostly i remember them from reading the british music teen rag smash hits'...american version. after hearing about them on a kylie minogue message board, i decided to give them a shot. i came across this best of release and i must say i was pleasantly surprised.

they are loud, sassy and made some of the trashiest pop rock i've ever heard. as a transvision vamp virgin, i can say i was satisfired. granted there are a few fillers, but overall i was highly pleased. standout tracks for me were the epic "velveteen", "baby i don't care", "tell that girl to shut up", "kiss their sons", "if looks could kill" and the irresistable "sister moon" which i must have listened to 100 times since i got this cd. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Alphaville's second album and unquestionably their greatest
I actually bought this CD in 1986 when I was 17, so it's a bit difficult to give an impartial view without incorporating the powerful emotions invoked by memories of my late teenage years. So what?! To me this is the most musically interesting and engaging album in my collection. Marian's singing is glorious and the lyrics set your imagination on fire, depicting a world of love and fantasy; introducing symbols and characters that often re-appear in later Alphaville songs.

I've heard it said that many talented bands produce their finest work on their second album. Whether or not this is true, I do believe it is the case here that Alphaville's most cohesive collection of musical genius came in the form of Afternoons in Utopia.

"Utopia" is bliss!
"Afternoons in Utopia" is a marvelous work of lyrics and music and vocals that will send your soul soaring. The title track is my favorite off the album, but tracks like "Dance With Me" and "Jerusalem" also shine through. The lyrics on this album connect, like chapters in a book, and they are the most beautiful of any Alphaville album. And Mr. Gold truly brings them to life!

True Alphaville spirit here!
I noticed that someone rated this album well and wished the band were still around. THEY ARE!! They have never stopped producing wonderfully evocative music with thoughtful and emotive lyrics for the past 20 years. I have just seen them live again (in Germany) and Marian Gold's voice is just as clear, pure and emotional as it is on this wonderful second album!

This 'Aquarian opera' (as it is known in Alphaville circles) is full of dreamscapes and fantasy, emotion and playfulness. That the album, if played on the loop, comes full circle with the end of the final song being the beginning of the whole album is typical Alphaville art and fun - it gives the album a kind of 'concept album' feel. Indeed, the songs on the album are related and many names and themes pop up from time to time.

Beautiful, floating melodies such as the synthy 'Fantastic Dream' and the title track mingle with the anthemic (Jerusalem), the more dancey (Dance With Me; Sensations), the melancholic and beautiful (Carol Masters) and the truly artful (I.A.O.). All the songs have wonderful melodies that make it easy to sing along to and once you hear this album, you'll want to listen to it forever more. Each song could easily have been a single release!

This is Alphaville doing what they do best - producing catchy tunes with thoughtful, sometimes controversial lyrics, combined with the masterful mixing-ear of Bernhard Lloyd and the perfect and rich voice of Marian Gold (the greatest voice in the world in my opinion, and that of many more people I know!).

Get this album and then explore other albums by Alphaville, including their new 2003 album 'Crazy Show'. Alphaville is one of the most consistant producers of perfect music, and the most sorely underrated, especially in the UK. And if you get to see them live, do! I highly recommend it!

Afternoons In Utopia
I have just spotted that someone who wrote a review here was disappointed with this album.
Pay no attention because Alphaville are fabulous. "Afternoons-", their second album, begins to uncover their true musical nature. They are dancable, yet meloncholic, puzzling and thought-provoking. Listen carefully to "Jerusalem", "Fantastic Dream" and the 1.25-minute wonder that is "20th Century" and hopefully you will understand. Also, keep a sharp eye out for their more recent albums like "Prostitute", "The Breathtaking Blue" and "Salvation".
Alphaville are very much still alive and well, and producing some of the worlds premium, most underated music.

alphaville GOES
This group is great...wish they were still around! This album is just as good, if not better than their first. If you liked the first, you'll love this one!! ... Read more

Album Description

The band's first "best of" since their formation in 1984. It includes an average of two songs from each C.O.X. album, and the final track list was in part chosen by fans via online voting. Five songs from the 4AD era were re-recorded to improve them, but without altering the initial atmosphere and sounds. Says band member Ronny Moorings, "Whilst listening to the final running order...I just got swept from period to period, remembering all kinds of people and situations. I am sure you too will have memories with certain tracks, so all I want to say to you now is: cherish your moments in life!" ... Read more

Album Details

Digitally Remastered Re-issue of the Band's Second Album that Spawned the Hit Singles 'right Here Right Now', 'real Real Real', 'who Where Why' and 'ibyt-international Bright Young Thing'. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Better used
Probably the most famous album by Jesus Jones... It's probably better buying an used one. Most of the songs are upbeat and colorful, my favorite being "Int'l Bright Young Thing." I don't know why "Perverse" is not listed in Amazon, but combined with "Liquidizer" and "Perverse," you will be able to fill an MD (or CD-R) with some good tunes. However, you have to like their style. It's not for everyone, but if you are curious what Jesus Jones sounds like, this is the one to get. This is probably a bit more polished than other albums and also more "radio-friendly."

mine was a simple accident
This was the cd my parents gave me when i was away at college and they were going through a divorce, trying to be so hip and sensitive to youthful trends. I'd almost forgotten about it, until the other day when cleaning out the garage i found it still in the wrapper. Away in a box i hadn't opened for several years was this thing i'd spent a lot of effort avoiding... and here it is again! i don't deserve this, and neither do you.

Jesus Jones: One Hit Wonder
"Right Here, Right Now" is one of the very best singles of the 1990's. I looooved that tune from the moment I heard it - what a well-written song with an irresistible beat and uplifting message! Doubt carries that terrific single, which is why for years I considered buying this album.

For some reason, however, I had this feeling that "Right Here, Right Now" would be the only notable track on this album, causing me to perpetually postpone my purchase. Finally a used version of Doubt became so cheap that the album was worth the purchase, if only for the hit single.

Since my purchase, I've learned that my instincts about Doubt proved to be true. "Right Here, Right Now" is the only standout track on this album. I have listened to this album repeatedly in an effort to like it, but I just don't. Other than the huge hit single, there's nothing else to appreciate on this album. No wonder Jesus Jones was propelled instantly to stardom with their one hit, then faded away into obscurity after that.

Those were the days.
During a time in which I listened mostly to "Ministry" and the "Red Hot Chili peppers", I still squeezed in a little "Jesus Jones". I have to admit, this is an album that I only play once or twice a year, but once it's in I love it. I really think this is better than most people think it is. The songs "International Bright Young Thing" and "Real, Real, Real" are just a couple songs on a mostly good album. Any fan of "The Soup Dragons" or "Happy Mondays" should like "Doubt". If nothing else, it's fun to crank "Right Here, Right Now", and pretend it's the early 90's again.

second coming from the unsung-heroes of trailblazing Rock
do recall that around 1991 if i'm not badly mistaken- head buccaneer Mike Edwards and team took an award from the Grammys by the time when this album came out for best new performance, presented by the ever lovable (and a turn-off too-flirty somewhat) Jennifer Connely, which when Mike sorta took a no-notice approach at all taking the trophy from the said chick (really cool) he went saying something like, "Thanks... Recieving this award for a best new act, I think i kinda like the sound of that." quite with a little touch of sarcasm a bit when JESUS JONES have been around for quite some years already at the time.
So much for my side-comment - here i go with my review=
Before there ever were the current popular electronic music of The Chemical Brothers, Moby, and (ex-HOUSEMARTINS/BEATS INT'Ls member project) FAT BOY SLIM-- the sound of this band is already embarking a crusade amongst college radio stations and both the good underground and bumblegum dance houses by the birth of the 90's. Somewhat the pioneers of modern day techno-rock, the band are obviously slighted upon and are dictated as one among the so-called one-shot wonders in the shallow popular mainstream industry, suffering the band a great deal of underatedness. And as if it weren't enough- mainstream music industry even have labeled them compared along with the preposterous E.M.F.! How redundant. However, this sophomore album of the band carries the radio college hit "ibyt-Int'l Bright Young Thing", the universal-question echoing "Who? Where? Why?", and "Real Real Real", which have also peeped into the popular music charts. And of course, it too have their most popular and yet at the same time accursed single "Right Here Right Now", a song which instantly hails the hopeful events during in the time of the Berlin Wall's fall- which catapulpted them into mainstream recognizion upon the time of its release; and yet have come about to pull the plug away from them after that momment as if suggested by the song's title itself. Garnished with a frenzy of noise barrage, melodic rock, subtle pop sound, and even at times with a little pint of faint goth, the album Doubt is in a way wanting to penetrate subconsciously into an attempt of conquering the listener through a seeming passage of subliminal textures. But then again that may only be my opinion. Preferably go get the 13-trk japanese special edition cd, got my copy of this album on tape, and am about to relieve it now with it.
Other impressive tracks in the album are: the opener "Trust Me" (which contains sample from the hillarious tv cop-commedy siries SLEDGEHAMMER), "I'm Burning" (say is it a vindictive cry towards God?), "Welcome Back Victoria", and "Are You Satisfied" (which appears in every release, except for the bastardised tape copy release that i have- and hell no it ain't pirated.)

Rate: 7 out of 10 ... Read more

Album Details

Camouflage Are Back after Almost a Decade Apart, Inspired by A-ha's Triumphant Success at the Turn of the Century and by the Renewed Interest of Many Fans of Electronic Music. It is Only Natural that These Sons of Kraftwerk Et Al Should Make a Comeback, and What a Comeback it Is. Their Sound is Denser, their Instruments Are Crisper and their Purpose Completely Renewed. Longtime Fans Will Marvel and the Mildly Interested Will Be Converted. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

One step forward (or back?)
After a completely unique in its sound album "Spice Crackers" it was hard to imagine what will follow. The single "Thief" released back in 1999 made it a little clearer.
Now "Sensor"... As a great fan of Camou, I cannot help enjoying it. But looking objectively, I have to say that the band have rejected all the ideas and concepts of Spice Crackers and come back to something closer to Bodega Bohemia. Besides, although Camouflage is one of the oldest electro bands in Europe, there's a feeling of being influenced by much younger artists like De/Vision and Mesh.
But nonetheless, Sensor is a huge step forward. If it doesn't concern the approach, it concerns the spirit and the feeling aroused by the music. I was really surprised by the new version of "Thief". It made me fall in love with this song again. Other items like "Me & You", "Perfect", "Harmful", "I Can't Feel You" are also worth of greatest praise.

Good album by Depeche Mode...er, Camouflage
My only exposure to Camouflage prior to ordering "Sensor" was the greatest hits collection, "We Stroke the Flames." I enjoyed some of that cd, but was not over-the-top impressed. "Sensor," on the other hand, was a pleasant surprise. It's a very mature, polished album, and most of the songs clicked instantly. The slow songs in particular (which comprise the majority of the album) are very moody and atmospheric, which I like. The more upbeat songs are catchy and nicely produced, too. My major complaint is that a couple of the songs are such obvious amalgamations of DM songs. I have no problem with bands being influenced by other bands. Obviously - that's natural. Most of the music I listen to was heavily influenced by DM. But take the song "I'll Follow Behind"...basically, it is a rehashing of DM's "It's No Good" (as a previous reviewer mentioned). "I Can't Feel You" has heavy heavy DM influence as well. Nonetheless, these are both great songs and are actually two of my faves from the album. The song "Perfect" is a good song, too, but could fit easily onto De/Vision's "Void" album. "Blink" is sorta weird and feels a little out of place (and has elements of DM's "Comatose"). I also think that "Me and You" is highly overrated. It's actually one of my least favorites from the album. It sounds to me like a generic prototype of what modern synthpop is, more or less. And the lyrics are quite goofy ("it's me and you / revolutionary true / colors will fade / from night to day / to something new"). I think they just need to build on their more unique sounds and drop a bit of the DM imitation, even though they are good at it. Overall, this is a very good album and it's gotten lots of play from me. Any fan of synthpop (especially DM-esque stuff) will surely enjoy it. Highlights are "Harmful," Here She Comes," "I Can't Feel You," "I'll Follow Behind," "Thief," and "Together."

Worth the wait!
It was eight years in the making, and it didn't disappoint. After their dreadful Spice Crackers album that nearly lost me as a fan, I simply couldn't believe how great these tracks sounded after first listening to them. I Can't Feel You is the strongest track, and most of the others are strong enough to be released as singles in their own right as well. This album has been in the most repeated playlist of my ipod now since its release and will likely be there for some time to come. I'll Follow Behind is my second fav after Feel You. Check it out!

Hi Camouflage! Welcome back.
You sound none the less the worse for wear after all this time; in fact, this is arguably your most consistent work to date.

Based on "Me and You" alone, I'd guessed that you'd been listening to Mesh lately; then I learned that you'd turned to them for a lethally good remix of "I Can't Feel You" (on the second CD-single for that song), and it all made sense. _Sensor_ may not be up to the new standard for Depeche-y synth set by Mesh's _Who Watches Over Me_, but it's not bad. Not bad at all.

What Depeche Mode Used to Be
Maybe imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but Camouflage has filled a void left by Depeche Mode, and not a moment too soon. "Sensor" has plenty of what made DM's "Ultra" good for repeat listenings - enough subtlety and variation that you found something new to like every time you listened to it. Also like "Ultra," "Sensor" is on the dark and moody side, but interspersed with enough rhythm to keep the CD going. I was also glad to see that some of the English phrasing makes more sense (Who can forget the line from "The Great Commandment" that said "chose the content between the world and their embarrassing pavement?!") Guess I'll have to stick to Rammstein for my mangled English...

Bravo, Camouflage, and welcome back!! ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Footnote to my previous review
I'll concede that, yes, I was a bit too harsh in my condemnation of the box set. One way or another, you need to hear the `unplugged' Debut material and the `Jools Holland show' performances...But, as I said, these and other items are already available on DVD. Only one and a half discs of previously-unreleased material is not worth forty-something US dollars, even with the mini-DVD and booklet taken into account.

And my criticisms still stand regarding the "play-it-safe" track selection. Perfectionism is not a virtue where archival releases are concerned - someone like Bjork who puts so much experimentation and improvisation into her live performances requires a live album - if you get my drift - less like 'Frampton Comes Alive' and more like `You Can't Do That On Stage Anymore'.

Good...but could be better.
I purchased Bjork's Live Box set yesterday and (being a huge fan) have been waiting ages for a live album.

The discs cover her tours for each album: Debut, Post, Homogenic and Vespertine. While the sound is excellent and Bjork is in top form I couldn't help but wish there was an extra disc of songs that should have been included.

This would have earned a 5-star rating had she included "Play Dead" from the Post Tour and "Human Behaviour" and "Possibly Maybe" from the Vespertine Tour. The last two having been performed with a radically different style and sound. Did we really need "Anchor Song" twice???

Great music, bad packaging.
Bjork is quite the musical goddess! I never tire of hearing the same songs resung given her unique vocals and instrument variations.

I've got one major complaint though; it's the only reason I'm shorting this one star. Get a new packaging designer, Bjork! It's a cardboard box containing five separate, flimsy sleeves that hold an additional sleeve containing the CDs. It's wasteful, ugly and downright annoying! It may seem artsy to have all this cardboard junk to dig though, but form does not follow function here!

The artwork is also bland and mediocre, far from representation of Bjork's music.

Björk rules!!!
WOW! I love Björk. She is my favorite singer of all times. This Box Set is a piece of art. I think she realeased this collection in the best time possible. Having 5 amazing studio records gave her a lot of material to work with. Many people have compared this box set with the Family Tree Box set. I have them both, and there is no comparison between them. The Family Tree concept is very different, it shows not only her solo career but also her work with other bands (Kukl, Sugarcubes) and it shows the evolution she has been having over the years. Meanwhile, the Live Box Set shows you her albums in a live form. CD 1, Debut Live, it's the MTV Unplugged she recorded. There is nothing different between the DVD and the CD, except that it includes Venus As A Boy. But then, I wondered, where is Atlantic? I have Atlantic live in mp3, and it is one of her best songs in icelandic. Definetely it should have been included. CD 2, Post Live. Again, it is the CD version of the Shepherd Bush DVD concert. It includes other songs from other performances (Hyperballad, I Miss You...) The beautiful song I Go Humble is there. CD 3, Homogenic Live. The BEST! It is the best of the CD's in the package. It includes almost all of the album songs and B-sides as So Broken. The strings are amazing, and the whole CD is breathtaking. At this point, I've read other reviews and I've seen that many people were not happy having The Anchor Song on three of the four CD's. The thing about this song, is that it shows you the evolution on her different tours. I think it's the only song that can show those changes. CD 4, Vespertine Live. Definetely, the choir is the best thing on this CD. However, on It's Not Up To You they could have done something way better, but it sounds good anyway. I was kind of dissapointed when I noticed that Generous Palmstroke is exactly the same that comes on the Family Tree box set, the same live version. I also think that a masterpiece she should have included was Verandi, just imagine the combination of her voice, Matmos and the orchestra performing that song. That would have been something gooooood! The DVD is just a taste of her other DVD's. It's good, a great bonus. Overall, if you are a truly Björk fan, don't hasitate and BUY THIS NOW! Don't mind the money, it's worth every single penny. BUY IT!!!!

A collection of genious performances by a genious artist
Before receiving the Live Box as a gift, I had only liked Bjork mildly. Only some songs appealed to me, and I could only handle her on various occasions. Quite frankly, when I was feeling out of my mind. The experience of this box set changed things. I had never given her live performances a chance. I spent time listening to each disc, chronologically (Debut to Vespertine). The experience was incredible, and her music began to touch me in a way I hadn't expected.

The Live Box made me appreciate her albums to the max, and I now consider myself a Bjork fan. I hear what she's saying, I know her motivation for music...I get her.

Besides only being a personal benefitting factor for me, the Live Box is also a gem in itself. Bjork's genious takes over when she performs. Her albums do much justice for her talent, but nothing compares to her concerts. Hearing the amateur performances of the songs from to the techno-filled dance party of the tour, all the way up to the theatrical beauty of the advanced tour is the best treat this box set can offer. You also get a handy book that features a lengthy interview with the artist herself, and a DVD to slightly hint at how these amazing performances looked.

My next step is to buy all the DVDs to see these shows rather than hear them. I'm sure that experience will only be even more gorgeous and inspiring. It took me some to realize it, but Bjork is an amazing intellectual talent that will continue to amaze with everything she releases. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Nice story, disappointing album
"Psychic Cat" has a nice story behind it - singer Kelli Ali leaves the Sneaker Pimps, goes on the dole, does soul-searching and travels for a while, eventually recording a solo album.While recording the album, she meets a Santa Monica street performer with a pair of psychic cats - hence, this album's title.Unfortunately, Ali's second solo effort is a bland electro-pop affair, falling somewhere between Avril Lavigne and Depeche Mode.Her voice is largely wasted on prosaic lyrics and safe production that connotes rather than conveys attitude.Pro Tools may make a singer, but it can also break one.

time to rejoice
If you've been living in a cave, Kelli Ali is the former Kelli Dayton, voice of Sneaker Pimps on their one and only good (actually fantastic) album, "Becoming X." This is her second solo album, and it absolutely kills from start to finish. With mellow trip-hop like "Home Honey, I'm High" and "Groupie" to swirling dance tracks like the title cut, this disc slams from start to finish. In the age of the single, it is rare for an artist in the "pop" genre (even if the artist is just flirting at the fringes of that genre) to release an ALBUM--but that is exactly what we've got here. Every song is good enough to hold its own ground as a single, and the flow of the album from start to finish is near perfect. I have listened to this at work several times a day every day since it came out, and frequently at home and in the car. Kelli has made an infectious album that gets better with each listen, and it definitely deserves to be heard.

And just in case anyone isn't sure, that is Kelli you hear on collaborations with: Linkin Park ("My Dcmbr"), Marc Almond ("Almost Diamonds"), Bryan Ferry (the "Frantic" album), Bootsy Collins ("Play With Bootsy"), and of course the ultimate dance record of all-time, "Becoming X" from Sneaker Pimps ("6 Underground," etc).

So-so
This isn't a mind-blowing album by any means, but I imagine it'd be pretty cool with headphones. The title track is the best. Comparisons to Gwen Stefani's solo record aren't unwarranted... ... Read more

Album Description

Aussie 'best of' for the infamous Manchester altenative dance act. Includes the hits 'Step On', 'Kinky Afro' 'Loose Fit' and mixes of 'Step On', 'Stayin' Alive' and 'WFL'. 15 tracks. SDtandard jewel case. 1999 release. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The epitomy of britpop
If it weren't for people like the happy mondays and the stone roses at the end of the 1980's and start of the 1990's then we would never have people like oasis, supergrass and all the other 'britpop'/ indie bands now. Music lovers never seem to realise where it all started, they believe that bands like oasis are original and took no inspiration from anywhere else. This band helped oasis get to where they are now so all i can say to music fans is to buy this CD and learn where it all started, also buy the stone roses and then you will truely know what 'Madchester' is. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good enough!
This is a great ep from Garbage! two great b-sides, one awesome live track, and 2 fabulous remixes!

Cherry lips is remixed by the great Eli Janney of Girls against boys and androgyny by the neptunes.

Any real fan of garbage NEEDS this! ... Read more

Amazon.com

White Noise is the second album from Krautpop duo Alpinestars--a work that finds them ransacking the vaults of cult German bands like Neu! and Kraftwerk and treating them to a slick, cartoonish modern overhaul. B.A.S.I.C, their debut album from 2000,leant a little too heavily on the established pillars of Krautrock, but White Noise rejects such an abstract approach in favor of actual songs, beckoning vocals into the mix--notably, "Carbon Kid," which features guest vocals from Placebo frontman Brian Molko. This isn't just fluffy ear candy: "Burning Up" is a fine example of the Alpinestars' skill at penning an infectious pop song but their greatest skill is in the way they infuse traditionally icy Teutonic techno sounds with a syrupy warmth, elementary synthplay, synthetic motorik beats, and starburst guitar roars coalescing into one fresh-sounding whole. Where most modern practitioners of Krautrock pursue the discipline down into a mire of off-key experimentalism and difficult tempos, at their best, the Alpinestars hold true to the original purity of the music. White Noise is the sound of the future, perfect. --Louis Pattison ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Brilliant!
This CD is a must buy. By far the most catchy CD I have purchased this year. I listened to it twice in a row and couldn't take it out of my CD player. It sucks you in with great beats, great rhythms and leaves you with a smile on your face.

Truly great album throughout!
This album takes no getting used to, as the punchy rhythms, clean guitars, and minor-key melodic vocals all come together to hit a striking chord with the ears. Imagine a less arrogant, more straight forward "AIR", and you have Alpinestars "White Noise". I bought this album after hearing just one track, and have not regretted it for a single moment! Buy this disc with a newfound hope for good music in the 21st century.

Great CD
This is one of the great surprises of 2003. I took a leap of faith and picked up this CD. I was pleasantly surprised. It's a mix of electronic music with some real instruments to keep it a tad rough around the edges. Some might hear influences of New Order or Monaco. Either way it's a great CD.
Enjoy. ... Read more

Album Description

A revved-up, all-new remix collection, DIAMONDS & DAGGERZ features new versions of the Kult's most notorious tracks.Assembled by the band from loops and samples of their own work into something familiar yet terrifyingly new! ... Read more

Album Description

Taken from Bjork's 2004 album Medulla. Featuring 3 non-album mixes of 'Who Is It' - C2n Dattasette Mix, Fruit Machine Mix & Bell Choir Mix. One Little Indian. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Eccentric, lovely dance-pop brilliance
Now that the 90's have come to a close, this album still stands as one of my Top 25 albums of the decade. This debut album is a brilliant, quirky blend of dance and techno sensibility combined with 60's retro pop melodies with lots of odd noodlings and samplings thrown in between. Saint Etienne still haven't bettered this album to date. Sarah Cracknell's like-honey vocals are sensuous and sincere, harkening back to the such 60's songstresses like Dusty Springfield, Petula Clark and Diana Ross. Instrumentalists Stanley and Wiggs' clever and masterful arrangements prove that they are electronica innovators in their own right. Listen for the odd vignettes "Etienne Gonna Die" (composed entirely of a snippet of dialogue from the film "House of Games" backed by menacing tribal-jungle percussion) and the psychotic "Wilson".

Standouts are "Only Love Can Break Your Heart" (a classy club rendition of Neil Young's song), "Spring" , She's the One", "People Get Real" (my all-time favorite Etienne song), "Stoned to Say the Least" (ambient-dance bliss), "Nothing Can Stop Us" and "Kiss and Make Up".

invigorating, sugary pop
My first taste of St. Etienne was the brilliant "Good Humor." Being a full time Cardigans fan at the time, it was a wonderful alternative and it still gets frequent spins in my player. This album, Foxbase Alpha, was my second. I chose it next because I liked the cover (it's my opinion that a cd, unlike a book, can be judged by its cover). It was quite different, and initially disappointed me. But soon I came to love it, possibly more than its descendant, Good Humor. Where that album is a collection of pure, simple, normal pop songs, this is more atmospheric, eccentric, and dance-able. There are some very strange experimental tracks that are quite intriguing. Wilson is very funny (do you hear someone saying "LSD" toward the end?), and Etienne Gonna Die is essentially a nervous drum beat with a conversation from a movie played over it. Dilworth's Theme (38 seconds long) is painfully off-key, but in a weird way that makes it charming. I absolutely love that humming noise used in People Get Real that oddly fits into the song. It reminds me of listening to a loud oscillating fan while drifting off to sleep. Yes I know that's very strange, but I can't exactly explain it. For the most part, the songs have heavy, attractive beats that you can't help but dance to. One such song is the hit cover "Only Love Can Break Your Heart," which stands out, even without Sarah Cracknell's vocals. Speaking of her voice, it is very nice, like a mix between Debbie Harry's and Nina Persson's(who I secretly worship). On this album it is sometimes filtered and has lots of echo on it in places, and this adds very much to the whole atmosphere. This release is simultaneously more playful and more experimental than their most recent albums. One of my personal favorites ever, play this cd whenever you're down, or just want some high-quality dance music.

Evocative
Saint Etienne's debut is brilliant. The music, is mainly a blend of house, hop-hop and classic 60's pop, but many other styles are added to the mix. The vocals (in almost all of the songs, by Sarah Cracknell) are breezy and sensual. Songs like "Spring", "Nothing Can Stop Us" or "She's the One" are catchy, beautifully constructed pop gems. But this album's strongest point is definitely its power to congure up images of places and times, lost sceneries we'd wish (or dream) to be part of. Some tracks, like Wilson or Etienne Gonna die (as well as other non-proper songs consisting mostly of spoken samples) may become a little tedious and feel too long, but serve to the purpose of leaving the listener in a confused, unattentive state to be pleasantly broken by another lovely song. I definitely recommend this album and rate it among the top five of the 90's.

Debut by Saint Etienne--unique mellow alternapop
The first album by Britain's alternapop group Saint Etienne helps in establishing the band's early sound.

"This is Radio Etienne" is one of two non-song interludes that are in the album. This one takes a French football radio program's theme music and French commentator Jacques Bordeux's words before launching into a cover of Neil Young's "Only Love Can Break Your Heart." I haven't heard the original but I'll say that this version is tempered but upbeat, with piano accompanying the synthesizer beat. Sarah Cracknell's waifish vocals is a softer and lightly sugared variation of Susanna Hoffs or Belinda Carlisle's vocals. The sound is something that Ace of Base would later use in "All That She Wants."

That is followed by the drug-looped psychedelia of "Wilson," a collage of British phrases repeated against a backdrop of slowed down techno-beats. Phrases such as "Would you like some sweets, Willie?" from an elderly aunt-like figure gets mixed up with "LSD" to evolve into "Would you like some LSD?" The aunt figure asks Willie "What would you like then?" Willie, a young boy, answers "Can I have one of these and one of these and two of those please?" and also "Come on auntie, we'll miss the bus!" A male announcer calls for "Mr. and Mrs. J. Summers" and all these phrases gets repeated over and over. The effects of Willie's LSD trip, maybe?

"Carnt Sleep" has a bass backbeat and is a bit more relaxed, like a poppy version of bossa nova. Sarah's dreamy vocals is different from her opening number and this is the essence of her voice.

"Girl VII" has a quick-paced beat and some lyrics before Sarah launches into a spoken-word speech on 4 June 1989, which was the date of the Tiannamen Square Massacre, and mentions random places like: "Primrose Hill, Staten Island, Chalk Farm, Massif Central, Gospel Oak, Sao Paolo, Boston Manor, Costa Rica, Arnos Grove, San Clemente, Tufnell Park, Gracetown, York Way, Videoton, Clerkenwell, Portobello, Maida Vale, Old Ford, Valencia, Kennington, Galveston, Holland Park, Studamer, Dollis Hill, Fougeres, London Fields, Bratislava, Haggerston, Lavinia, Canonbury, Alice Springs, Tooting Graveney, Baffin Island, Pollard's Hill, Winnepeg, Plumstead Common, Hyderabad, Silvertown, Buffalo." The repeated refrain sounds like "has been away from" but is actually "Carrie has a boyfriend"

"She's The One" is about a girl "who thinks nothing of breaking up two people in love." And "in this world of ups and downs" to boot.

"Spring" exalts the time of youth and love, where Sarah tells her young man that he's too young to be through with love after a bad time and that she'll be different. With the xylophone and string-like "Theme From A Summer Place" sound, it's another mellow fresh breeze of a tune.

The bass and string-backed "People Get Real" features Sarah's vocals done in a haunting echoing effect that's later repeated in other songs here "Dilworth's Theme."

There's the instrumental "Stoned To Say The Least" which isn't as trippy as "Wilson" which has a pounding bass, soon joined by a high-hat, claps, the usual light-techno beats, and an effect reminding me of the sun slowly rising.

"Nothing Can Stop Us Now" is the other singleworthy song here. It's upbeat, with some chirpy woodwind-like keyboards here. However, Sarah has a monologue separate from her haunting vocals, which sing the verse, while her pop voice sings the chorus.

"London Belongs To Me" is a mellow dreamy song done in Sarah's echoing voice. The tempo picks up in "Kiss And Make Up", which has Sarah doing a mea culpa on saying hasty things she didn't mean and to well, "let's kiss and make up." Another good dance club number. And "Like The Swallow" begins with a wall-of-sound instrumental before the song starts about a girl who is "like the swallow that flies so high. She's like the river that never runs dry." The slow closing ditty of "Dilworth's Theme" mirrors what listeners who enjoyed this album might say to Sarah: "Oh babe, I know you've gone./I won't be sad alone /'cause the song that you left me/has the sweetest refrain."

90's alternapop is the way I'd categorize Saint Etienne's early oeuvre, and coming as it did in 1991, they were ahead of their time. Foxbase Alpha is also the first of three "conventional" albums before SE launched into their hybrid ambient-pop beginning with Good Humour in the late 1990's and continuing today. It pales in comparison to So Tough or Tiger Bay, but a good starting effort that established what SE was about.

The British Group America Slept On
Let me be real: America has truly slept on some really good British artists. Saint Etienne is one of them. This trio, led by vocalist Sarah Cracknell, couldn't have picked a worse time to release their debut, "Foxbase Alpha." This album came out in the early 1990s, when America was obsessed with grunge and turned a contemptuous nose to anything electronic. That's sad, because this album is a rich mix of retro-60's electropop with laid back beats. They do an impressive cover of Neil Young's "Only Love Can Break Your Heart," which is coupled with a hip hop-flavored drum loop. "Spring" is so fresh and vibrant, so light and perky, it sounds like it's walking on air. "Nothing Can Stop Us," another single, is a catchy dance number that definitely recalls the 1960s with its horn section. And, in a display of range, they give us a little reggae flavor in "Can't Sleep." This record was released to rave reviews on both sides on the Atlantic, but the American audience, already hooked on fellow Brits Jesus Jones and EMF, virtually ignored it. But it's not too late, my friends! Give this album a try and let the grooves of Saint Etienne draw you in. ... Read more

Album Description

The "Best" Best-of from one of the most important groups in the history of industrial & electronic music. 'The Original Sound of Sheffield, 1983-1987' covers their most accessible period. "Sensoria", "I Want You", "Don't Argue", and "Here to Go" not only ruled the underground scene, but the mainstream dancefloors as well. Compiled with the help of Richard H Kirk, the Collection features the full 12 Inch Mixes, many of which are on CD for the first time, along with one track, Previously Unavailable on any format. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The highlight of Curve's gothic, shoegazing rock has always been Toni Halliday. The duo's female front person possesses a darkly beautiful voice, a gift that on its own could still break hearts. Halliday conveys longing and hardship as smoothly as P.J. Harvey, though she lacks a bit of Harvey's grit. Nonetheless, from the day Curve's debut, Doppelganger, first hit the shelves in 1992, Halliday has been the reason to fall under this band's spell. Almost a decade later, she's lost none of her brooding charm. Gift is a lush electronic album, with quick-shifting dynamics moving under Halliday's honeyed croons. Bass player and programmer Dean Garcia and guest guitarist Kevin Shields (My Bloody Valentine) crank up the intensity on the effects one minute and strip back to simple beats the next, creating the right amount of tension for Halliday's vocals to rise to the top. The only missteps come when the act gets too close to copping another artist's style: the opening industrial assault on "Hell Above Water" makes them sound like a cheap Nine Inch Nails clone, and "Polaroid" feels stolen from Madonna's Music. Luckily, most of Gift is distinctly the best of Curve: a moody collage of synthetic noise crested by Halliday's otherworldly set of pipes. --Jennifer Maerz ... Read more

Reviews (49)

Good, but completely par for the course
Put simply, if you liked previous efforts by the band, there's no way to not like this one. Halliday's voice remains as tough and seductive as ever. Similarly, Garcia's instrumentation is that particular mix of rough edges around a sweet, soaring center. The only negative thing to say here is that there's no real new ground being broken here. But who really cares. There's so few bands making truly compelling, non-corny, non-teen-angst-fueled electronic-flavored rock, there's no real need to want Curve to change. One other small complaint: no pictures of Halliday in the liner notes. I'm truly embarassed to say that matters to me at all.

Want more Curve
It's good to see that Curve's record label decided to release "Gift" after all. Despite the pain it took Toni and Dean to get it release, the wait was worth the hassle. "Gift" is definitely one of the most interesting albums to have come out this year. Toni Halliday's vocals couldn't sound any better than they did on this album. The dark, industrial beats of "Hell Above Water" and "Gift" are two of the best songs I have heard ever. Of course they are two of my favorite songs off the album. I was just blown away by them when I first heard them. They sound even better with the stereo crankd up loud. "Fly With the High" is another particular favorite track off the cd. I love Toni's polished vocals on this track. Curve's music in general reminds me a lot of Garbage with their blending of techno/industrial beats with rock music. I would not be surprised if Garbage was influenced by Curve. I certainly would list "Gift" as one of the best albums of 2001 and one of Curve's best albums ever.

This is the best album in years...period!
..."Gift" is the beautifully written follow-up to the duo's sonic smashing 1998 album, "Come Clean", from which the wickedly awesome "Chinese Burn" tops the track listing. "Gift" picks up where its predecessor leaves off, hard hitting! The intro track, "Hell Above Water" is surprisingly the only massively hard track on the whole album, so as to give you the impression that this is just like Curve's other works. As soon as the title track reverbs into your ears, you can tell this record has got some surprises in store. Toni Halliday's entrancing voice carries you through the light and heart-felt songs "Want More Need Less", "Perish" (this albums candidate for best love ballad), and the soft and sleepy "Hung Up". As you continue to listen the soundscape gets bold and gritty as Toni sings about "sitting pretty" in the song "Chainmail", and then her sound bightens up in the pulsing track "Fly With the High". After you come down, Dean Garcia, the other half of this act, tones it down with shades of gray sounds reminiscent of their first LP, "Doppelganger", as you listen to "My Tiled White Floor". You begin to hear the sarcasm in Toni's voice as she tells you how her "tiled white floor is so soothing, it's so inviting..". Soon after she's done talkng about her interior decorating, the light tapping of drums softly signals the start of a song about a mystery, called "Polariod". Finally, this dynamic ride from one end of the music spectrum ends on the opposite side with a song echoing back to the days of goth and grunge,"Bleeding Heart". As the album draws to a close, the haunting echoes of Toni's voice will leave you in awe at how such a wonderfully talented group like Curve has continued to go ignored by the mainstream. If dark acts like Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson, and Garbage (who where influenced by Curve heavily) can get major media attention, why overlook this band? Curve are still innovators of a new sound movement in rock and roll. This album is their best work to date. My suggestion: buy this album, and I guarantee you will fall in love with this great group.

think Garbage
I bought this album thinking it could be compared to kidneythieves or maybe Guano Apes. Instead, like many others, I believe it can be compared to Garbage. The music tends to be mellow and repetitive, unlike the ever changing sound of a kidneythieves album. Toni's voice is also mellow and constant, much like Shirley Manson's. This album doesn't lack energy, it just doesn't have it in abundance. A good choice to listen to if you not in any particular mood and just want to hear some good music.

SEDUCED YOU ONE SONG AT A TIME
the bad news first. GIFT does not raise the bar at all. there is nothing new or unique to this album but beyond that CURVE fans should be happy. toni halliday has the voice of an angel. sweet and seductive, like a lover who kisses you with so much passion that you barely notice her driving a knife in your back.
the music is centered around ear candy-esque melody that is , at times, ragged around the edges. i have to comment to MoonGoddess' review. there is no way in hell garbage is better than curve. curve, not only came first but they set the standered for this style of music. they raised the bar and while you can compare stylistically speaking, it is my firm opinion that while garbage is indeed awesome. they pale in comparison. shirly manson is beautiful but garbage do not know how to use that beautiful voice as well as curve work the music and voice together. just my opinion, neither right nor wrong.
this is a great cd both for the fan and the necomer to curve. sweet and sensual, haunting and brilliant. ... Read more

Album Description

Budget-price 2002 compilation includes the Brit-pop act'sthree Top 20 hits. 16 tracks, 'Ready To Go', 'Drop DeadGorgeous', 'From Rush Hour With Love', 'Holly', 'Fading OfThe Man', 'Nothing's Feeling New', 'Pretty Girl Hate','Kung Fu Movies', 'Bitch', 'Don't You Ever', 'Get Off','Pub Pusher', 'Bloke', 'Out Of The Darkness', 'Picture Me'& 'Ready To Go' (Original Mix). ... Read more

Reviews (3)

NO GOOD! KEEP AWAY!!!
Yeah, great songs on here. Only problem is that the members of republica didn't even know about it until AFTER it came out, so I won't be buying it. If you're interested in Saffron (the lead singer), check out S W A R M, her new project. Ciao.

What happened?! I was "ready to go" for a 3rd album!
Republica's self-titled album (1996) is one of my favorite listens, every track flows together and connects styles, energy, and unique vocal flavor. I love Saffron and I enjoyed their follow-up "Speed Ballads." I'm only saddened that this Best-Of collection seems to imply that they won't be putting anything else out.

If you have the CD's, it's a waste of money. But if you don't, it's a cheap way to get lots of great electronica songs you'll get addicted to fast. I don't know what's going on with the band, but I'll cross my fingers anyway that maybe they will release something new at some point.

Best of... ??
My best guess is that somebody needs some spending money, because they only have 2 CDs out to begin with (which are both excellent). There are only a few songs missing, if you have one of the CDs already, just buy the other one instead of wasting money on this. ... Read more