Amazon.com

Bruce Springsteen followed his muse on this haunting 1995 release. Perhaps that's why it barely made a dent in the marketplace, even while it thrilled the faithful who were willing to take another dark, Nebraska-like journey with him. It's abundantly clear that Springsteen had been soaking himself in the work of John Steinbeck and Woody Guthrie during the writing of The Ghost of Tom Joad, but their combined influence is found on more than just the title track. It's all over these windblown songs (including the haunting "Dry Lightning" and "the seminal "Youngstown") and their hard-scrabble protagonists. Not the Boss's biggest record, but certainly one of his best. --Michael Ruby ... Read more

Reviews (83)

A Stunning American Classic
Don't get me wrong, I am primarily a maniacal fan of Bruce's rock 'n' roll masterpieces and his stupendous live shows, but his acoustic work shows equally important facets of his genius as a songwriter/musician/poet. These "Tom Joad" recordings have the haunting quality of Appalachian folk songs with the lyric depth of the poems of Federico Garcia Lorca or Dylan Thomas. I honestly can't think of another musical artist that has captured the heartbreak, complexity and hope of the American experience in the way that Springsteen has. "Galveston Bay" talks with quiet irony of way in which our nation of immigrants tends tragically to discriminate against each latest wave newcomers. And yet, by the end of the song, the antagonists finally relent and allow new blood to reinvigorate and replenish the American dream. "Across the Border" captures the mix of hope and illusion that draws so many to "El Norte." "Youngstown" speaks achingly of the betrayal of the American working man and woman. "Dry Lightening" paints a word picture of the itchy, discomforting freedom promised by true love and the unending horizons of western plains. I could go on and on. I never tire of this album. It still has the ability to change my life just a tiny bit for the better each time I hear it. If you don't love "Tom Joad" on first bounce, play it again and let its power seep into your soul. You'll never be sorry.

There won't ever be another CD like this
When 'The Rising' came out I went back and bought all of Springsteen's past collection. I came across 'The Ghost Of Tom Joad' and sat down to listen to it, not really knowing what is was about. It really blew me away, and for the first time I actually felt like I was pulled in to the album, thanks to Bruce's brilliant song writing. You listen to an album like this, which is so beautifully crafted, and then listen to basically any song from pop bands, you will be put into a new light. This is how music is suposed to sound, intimate, fun, and emotional. I can honestly say, if you buy this record you won't be sorry.

Out on a limb? It's artistic genius!
Bruce Springsteen's a reliable rocker. His lyrics aren't always the best, and his voice could use a little touchup, but people love him anyway. Why? He sings about the common man. And he's talented as hell.

On "The Ghost of Tom Joad," Springsteen finds himself at his peak--even if he had to leave the rock arena to do it. Sure, his electric guitar-fueled rockers are superb (find one rocker who's had a more lasting impression on various generations, past and present, than the Boss; and if you say McCartney, I'm gonna hit you). However, these gentle (mostly) acoustic numbers are sublime--graceful folk/country songs that sound the bells for the downtrodden (and Springsteen's multi-instrumental talent).

"Straight Time," for example, deals with a former criminal who can't seem to live a decent life; "Highway 29", about a fateful Bonnie and Clyde couple; "Youngstown," about a factory worker who needs a reprieve; "The Line," about a border guard who falls in love with a refugee; "My Best Was Never Good Enough," a darkly humorous tune about a man who just can't win, no matter what advice he's been given; and several other songs, most about immigrants and their troubles.

Yeah, it's a little opressing at first. Springsteen can be that way, when he's writing from his soul. And the album never really picks up, tempo-wise. It's not something you're gonna party to; but if you want good quality music, that'll make you think about yourself and the world, and shine a better light on your relations with others, then "The Ghost of Tom Joad" is your album.

A Masterpiece
As far as I am concerned, this is the best album Bruce has ever made. As I own practically every album he has released, I am speaking with some knowledge.

An amazing sequel to Nebraska
The Ghost of Tom Joad is one of the most haunting albums I have ever listened to. It was in fact listening to this album that I noticed the tremendous influence he has had on so many of our great singer/songwriters. The music on Ghost is tremendously affecting. It is Springsteen without his pop-enthusiasm. The songs are bare, and his tremendous talents as a songwriter really stand out for all to see. Ghost is a great album that showcases the considerable talents of one of our great songwriters. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The sound of Southern rock gets a facelift for the '90s on Yourself or Someone Like You, the record that made Florida's Matchbox 20 a success story.Rob Thomas's charismatic and passionate vocal delivery carries this collection of captivating, personal-story songs, based on honest, heart-felt lyrics rich with cathartic emotion. Anyone who's felt so scarred by love that they can't imagine taking the chance of getting hurt again will relate to a song like "Push" (an exhilarating feminist anthem disguised as just another relationship-on-the-rocks song). A much-needed break from the alternative pack. --Gail Worley ... Read more

Reviews (575)

Okay , listen up
To everyone who says this cd is only 'semi' good and Rob Thomas isn't a good artist:

This is their debut album. And it's sold 30 million copies. This means that if you randomly take 300 people anywhere in America atleast 1 of them will own this cd.

Let's take a look at two of the biggest Alternative band's debut albums,

Bush. Their debut album was of such high quality it had 4 singles and sold over 8 million copies. With this they carved their name in the alternative scene forever.

311. Their debut album had enough quality to have 2 singles and sold 3 million copies.

Matchbox 20 on the other hand. Their debut album sold 30 million copies. More than those two combined and doubled. And it had the song quality to release 6 singles. Just because you got the cd and got bored of it because the radio plays them so much doesn't make rob thomas a bad musician.

Perhaps when you sell a 30 million copy 6 #1 single debut cd you can argue that you can judge rob thomas' skills as a muscian?

This is my favorite CD in the entire world!
This is truly my fave CD. It dosn't ever(and I mean it) come out of my stereo. Ever since I've owned it, I listen to it all of the time. Whenever my friends ask me: What is your favorite song on the album? I say: All of them! This CD is a totally all around type. You can rock on, or even cry to their music. A lot of their songs aren't exactlly what you'd call "PG", but their lyrics are very meaningful, whether they be "nice" or "bad". As you probably know, thier most fame songs are push and 3am., but the truth is, you'll be surprised when you hear the rest of the songs, they live up to push and 3am. Once, I asked my friend why they only advertise push and 3am? She told me it's because there wasn't enough room to write all of the songs onto the cover. I didn't have the CD at this time and I laughed and said, "yeah right!". A few weeks later I bought the CD, and to my surprise I totally agreed with her. Every song was a hit in my mind. The truth is that they might even be better than push! Wow, hold back, push is pretty tough to be better than. But anyway if you are looking for a CD that is new to you, but you want it to be good, then you can completely count on liking this CD. -K

Whether you like it or not, it's MB20 at their most basic
I feel compelled to write a review here to counteract everyone else who seems to have just bought the album within the last year. This is a great rock album, and if you want to know what matchbox twenty is about, this is your album. However, as someone who has followed the progress of this band since '96 when this album came out, I have to say, I enjoy their 2nd and 3rd albums a little more. This is not to imply that it's not worth listening to from time to time, but I feel as if Rob Thomas' songwriting skills don't hit their peak until Mad Season.

But, seeing as none of my friends understand why this is my third favorite band, most likely because the first two are Coldplay and Radiohead, I should probably advocate buying this album.

1. Real World- A great intro to the album. Musically, it gets overrun later on, however.

2. Long Day- Really an interesting song, since it briefly put the band on the map in the thrash rock genre. A lot of soulful lyrics in this one.

3. 3 AM- The most popular song on the album, it's worth a listen to and plays well with people at parties if you're just picking up a guitar, but gets old after a while.

4. Push- Totally underrated, it's one of matchbox twenty's best songs ever. It's controversial because some say that the lyrics imply sexual abuse, but Thomas claims this is not the case. A great tune and if anyone gets their hands on the acoustic version, they will love it even more.

5. Girl Like That- A little obnoxious, but it grows on you.

6. Back 2 Good- Really an awesome song, it lays down the foundations for some of their better depressing ballads. Great considering how it stands out in the middle of the album, keeping a listener's attention with it's sad lyrics.

7. Damn- A confusing song, I'm not sure if it's supposed to be twangy or rock or sad or what.

8. Argue- A good rock song and I wish they'd have pushed it as a single.

9. Kody- No one ever talks about this song, but I love it. Second best song on the album. It's sort of a sad tune about a homeless man (and one can hypothesize that Thomas wrote it about himself, a former homeless person).

10. Busted- Reminds me of a bad version of Feel (on MTYTYA).

11. Shame- Catchy guitar riff, and a good song.

12. Hang- Underrated, and sets the tone well for some of the acoustic songs on the next album (If You're Gone, You Won't Be Mine). A spectacular final track to an album, second only to Street Spirit of "The Bends."

If you adore matchbox twenty already, then you should probably not skip buying this. If, however, you want to get your money's worth in one matchbox twenty album, buy not their latest album or this but Mad Season.

AWESOME
This is one of the best CDs I own. I bought it because I loved "Unwell" and "Disease" but when I got it I saw how many other great tracks were on it. "The Difference" has very emotional lyrics that I liked, while "You're So Real" and the hidden track (about 10 seconds after "The Difference) were fun but just as enjoyable. I strongly recommend this CD to everyone. :)

excelent example of 90s rock
Great 90s band who is still making music today.

This cd has half a dozen great songs that you could listen to over and over again.

It is hard to catagorize: Easy rock, hard pop but basically it keeps you entertained but does not promt other people around you to turn it down.

The first 5 songs are the best. ... Read more

Amazon.com

On her third album, Chambers has weathered a storm of publicity and expectation by clinging to her deeply southern--as in Australian--roots. She stands by her Dead Ringer Band kin (brother Nash Chambers produces and father Bill Chambers plays lead guitar), and her delicate songs continue to celebrate the innocence and wonder of loving and being loved. The slight adult-contemporary sheen never outshines the blues and bluegrass flourishes--indeed, "Follow You Home" rips like a Del McCoury breakdown--as she explores all the poetic potential of the conditional voice. "If I were lost would you shout my name out loud?" and "If you were a river run dry, well I'd sing you sweet by and by" are more than coy conceits. They're unforced glimpses of grace, earned by remaining faithful to who she is. Even in a holding pattern, the sweet strength of Chambers's voice and songs find room to soar. --Roy Kasten ... Read more

Amazon.com

Maynard James Keenan is known for venting his personal angst through the abstract metal of his former band Tool and the poisoned art rock of his current outfit A Perfect Circle. On the group's third full-length release, however, the songwriter drops the high drama and gets blunt: War is bad. Politicians are evil. The world is doomed. To support his case he delivers a handful of politically charged originals and unusual Eastern-influenced covers of crusty anti-war anthems like John Lennon's "Imagine" and Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On." You could never accuse Keenan of being predictable. --Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Dirty South is the sixth album by Muscle Shoals, Alabama-based Drive-By Truckers. While previous Southern rock bands have celebrated certain regional mythologies, this quintet revels in the towering glory of small, gritty realities. They can kick up a righteous storm, as on the country lick-filled opener "Where the Devil Don't Stay," or the swamp and fuzzy "Lookout Mountain." However, within the latter is a daunting verse: "If I throw myself off Lookout Mountain, No more for my soul to keep, I wonder who will drive my car, I wonder if my Mom will weep." It's clear these guys deliver emotional wallops at every turn. "Carl Perkins' Cadillac" honors the honesty of Sam Phillips, while writhing in the melancholy of changing times and circumstances. --David Greenberger ... Read more

Amazon.com

What's the meaning of this double-disc anthology? Literalists will note that it's called Prisoners of Love, and while songs like "Our Way to Fall" and "The Summer" are pretty enough little ditties, neither "Drug Test" nor their cover of Sun Ra's "Nuclear War" are liable to be featured in a Meg Ryan romance anytime soon. Those handy with a calendar will note that the album was released to coincide with the band's twentieth anniversary, and while it's not explicitly stated anywhere on the cover, this is most likely the reason for this lovely little mix tape of the best band to ever spring forth from the Garden State. They may have the snobbiest record collections around, but Yo La Tengo's dreamy drones, garage funk, country pop and wailing jams somehow comprise the most utterly compelling and literate pop music of the past two decades. Don't believe me? Dude, just press play. This version includes a separate bonus disc with unreleased demo and acoustic versions of songs as well as limited-edition 7" and EP tracks, including Kevin Shields' brillian remix of "Autumn Sweater."--Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A great overview of a brilliant and dynamic band
Yo La Tengo is my favorite band. I own their first LP, Ride the Tiger, on vinyl (the rest of my collection is on CD). I've also seen them live about six times, and each show is different from the other (one show, in fact, was of them playing improvisational background music for a psychedelic light show). In fact, with Yo La Tengo, while some things - like the overall quality of their music, well demonstrated on Prisoners of Love, stays constant, other things - particularly their pioneering and experimentation-prone spirit - show constant growth and dynamism. Great musicians - be they the Who, Bob Dylan, the Beatles, Miles Davis, the Kinks, and Elvis Costello - all showed this dualistic quality. Just like Yo La Tengo.

What to say about this compilation? Essentially, it represents all the different phases of the band's career, from their start in the mid 80s as a slightly folky, sort of bouncy and quirky post new-wave rock act, to the bliss of their early 80s shoegazer phase (somewhat reminiscent of My Bloody Valentine and others), to various later melodic/sound experiments. What's also cool is that the songs are in no particular stylistic or chronological order. They're just there, and if the listener doesn't necessarily like the order, s/he can rearrange it (for me, though, it works just fine). Anyway, listening to these tracks, one hears various songs (Sugarcube, Big Day Coming, Lewis) in which the band rocks out. Others (Did I Tell You, our Way to Fall, Autumn Sweater, etc.) are softer and quieter, and nicely balance things out.

As far as the Title - Prisoners of Love - I've thought about what it means, and I think that it is quite apt. It shows the kind of quirky, ironic humor the band is known for (their very name - associated with the haplessness and miscommunication of the 1962 NY Mets - is another example of this). However, there is also something more serious. Yo La Tengo is very much about love - for one another, for music, and for life. They must then see themselves as "prisoners" to this love, i.e., simply accepting it, warts and all, and going with it, allowing themselves to see where it takes them.

One last comment; The outtakes and rarities disk is really worth having. Much of it is of alternate takes on various songs they've recorded and released elsewhere, and in listening to these, one gets an even further sense of the pioneering and experimental spirit of a truly dynamic band. It also shows their willingness to cover everything from well known rock icons (like Stevie Nicks) to bands much more obscure than themselves (the Dead C anyone?) and to give their coverage that unique Yo La Tengo touch.

May they keep leading a path for indie rock for 20 more years!

Great Intro to Band / Better Liner Notes Would Help
For a newbie to YLT (myself included), this Collection is a great sampler (at a Great Price!) of the Band's Indie-Rock genius. However, given Ira's well documented Music Critic/Record Geek credentials, how come there's no notes in the accompanying booklet as to which tracks belong to which Lp's? Surely the folks at MATADOR could've kidnapped some slovenly Intern from Sub-Pop or Drag City to help out with some more Fleshed-Out Background Info for us, the uninitiated.

Worth it for the bonus disk alone!
Worth it for the bonus disk alone!The third disk of rarities plays as good as any of Yo La Tengo's best albums (do we still call them albums anymore?).It flows from one song to the next, each song a standout on their own, the sum of it's parts (tunes, instrumentation, slow songs, fast songs, and a large dose of guitar blasts) works so well.My only complaint is the cardboard slipcase enclosing the three disks is so tight I could barely get the CD cases out, even more difficult to get the CD's back in the darned thing!The two CD best of plays just as well - this could be as much a contender for Desert Island Disk as Hear The Sound of Two Hearts Beating.

great compilation from NJ's greatest band
I bought this collection mainly for the disc of outtakes and rarities, being a long time fan of the band.That disc alone made it worth the price for me. For me it's great to hear alternate version of songs that I already know and love ("Big Day Coming", "Decora"), as well as outtakes and covers I hadn't heard.

What is great about the 2 disc retrospective is that songs from the begining of their career ("Lewis", "Barnaby Hardly Working", "Drug Test") sit along side songs that were released in the past few years with out sounding dated or out of place.That to me is the mark of a great band.

This is a great introduction to the band, and while there are a few songs I would have liked to have seen included, this is a great place to start if you're interested in yo la tengo.

Yo La Tengo are the best band in the world
Listening to this collection it's amazing to hear tracks from 1985 sitting comfortably beside tracks from 2002.Every song projects the warmth and orginality that is so prevelant in everything they've done.They just might be the quintessential indie rock band.Pick it up and see why they've been able to hold such a devoted fan base for 20 years.This is music that will be loved for years to come, if you've been missing out on Yo La Tengo it's time to do yourself a favor and check them out. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's never easy following up a multi-platinum success, but Canada's Nickelback's latest seem sure to match the sales of the many-million-selling Silver Side Up. The formula remains pretty much the same--nothing fancy, just radio-friendly grunge that lends an appropriately dramatic backing to the powerful and increasingly confident voice of Chad Kroeger. Aside from the fast and punchy opener "Flat on the Floor," the tough, staccato "Because of You," and the Oasis-like "Figured You Out," the band deal exclusively in soft-rock anthems (soft, that is, by 2003’s pulverizing standards). The only real change here lies is in Kroeger's lyrical concerns. Where 2000's The State found him suffering the frustrations of small-town life, now he's tortured by a heavy touring schedule that promotes destructive drug abuse and strains relationships to breaking point. That said, you can't help feeling the ruthlessly analytical Kroeger would turn a visit to the supermarket into a riot of hatred and self-recrimination. For fans of Silver Side Up, Nickelback have delivered the goods once more. --Dominic Wills ... Read more

Reviews (76)

Good rock album from Nickelback
RATING: 4/6

This is a great rock album, more good songs than bad songs, but overall they're all ok/good songs. I'll write a rating for each song,

01. Flat on the Floor (GOOD SONG 5/5)
02. Do This Anymore (BAD SONG 2/5)
03. Someday (GOOD SONG 5/5)
04. Believe It or Not (BAD SONG 3/5)
05. Feelin' Way Too Damn Good (GOOD SONG 5/5)
06. Because of You (GOOD SONG 4/5)
07. Figured You Out (GOOD SONG 5/5)
08. Should've Listened (BAD SONG 3/5)
09. Throw Yourself Away (GOOD SONG 5/5)

10. Another Hole in the Head (GOOD 4/5)
11. See You at the Show (GOOD SONG 4.5/5)
12. Saturday Night's Alright (GOOD SONG 5/5)
13. Learn the Hard Way (GOOD SONG 5/5)
14. Yanking Out My Heart (BAD SONG 3.5/5)

The few stand out songs would be "Figured You Out", "Saturday Night's Alright", "Throw Yourself Away", "Someday", "Flat on the Floor", and "See You at the Show". If you're a fan of rock music with a great quality sound, you'll enjoy this album.

The Long Road Delivers The Goods
I've been a big Nickelback fan since "The State" was first released about 4 years ago. I loved it, and when "Silver Side Up" came out, I loved it even more. At that point, I figured the band had already hit their high point, and anything else they'd put out would probably only be just ok. Well, after picking up my copy of "The Long Road" last September, I was pleasantly surprised. I really wasn't expecting too much out of this album, but at the end of every song, I found myself saying "YEAH!" The first single, "Someday" is a great song, but for those that thinks it's a watered down version of "How You Remind Me", listen to the rest. "Figured You Out" is also a good song, however, I don't think it's a good choice as a single. "Feelin Way Too Damn Good" is the next single, and again I have to say I love the song, but it's not a good choice as a single. The album's best material is found on tracks like "Believe It Or Not" and "See You At The Show". It doesn't stop there though, "Flat On The Floor" and "Because Of You" are probably some of the heaviest songs the band has ever written. There's not one bad song on this album! I'd say it's at least as good as "Silver Side Up" if not better. So I urge you to pick this up right away! However, if you have the means...get the limited edition version which features 3 bonus songs: "Learn The Hard Way", "Yanking Out My Heart" and "Saturday Nights Alright". Also good songs!

I LOVE THIS CD
This is one of the best cd's i have ever heard, i only dislike one or two songs at the most, if you have liked the there cd's in the past, or like there song, "Someday", then you will like there cd, it is good, and it will never get old!

Melody Needed !!!
Nickelback is just an above average band.. i know , many would disagree.. but its true. Some of their songs r very good ..but just some ! many songs have the same sound !! I have to say tht Nickelback Needs Melody in their music !! There r no moving ballads and no excellent acoustic numbers at all in all their albums ! i wonder why ? The only great point abt Nickelback is...without any doubt .. Chad Kroeger !! hes a fantastic singer with a great range and a captivating voice !! He shud better go solo !! Nickelback fans plz dont mind... but this is true..they r not making good music despite 3 albums or so !!
If u want to hear some great music .. Listen to the band REVIS !! and they will make u forget nickelback (ofcourse not chad )!! Give a try to REVIS !!!

Uninspired
I like the pants around your knees? You're my favorite disease?

These are stunningly and embarassingly bad lyrics. Trouble is, they are better than the music. :+0 ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Better than Ezra is better than ever!
Better then Ezra is one of my favorite bands. Not only because they don't need MTV or the radio to get out to people, but because they are truly a great band. Before the Robots is, without a doubt, the best CD that the band has made.

1. Burned- 5 stars. Great song, good beat, catchy lyrics
2. Daylight- 4 stars. A bit too slow for my taste, but great lyrics.
3. Lifetime- 4.5 stars. This is a remake of the original "Lifetime" from the CD "Closer". Way better than the original.
4. It's Only Natural- 3.5 stars. It's an okay song. A bit weird.
5. Overcome- 4 stars. Slow paced, but great.
6. Special- 4 stars. Good song and good lyrics although not the best on the CD.
7. American Dream- 5 stars. Great beat and wonderful lyrics. One of my favorites!
8. Our Last Night- 5 stars. Slow paced, but great lyics and beat. My favorite on the CD.
9. A Southern Thang. 5 stars. Great beat and odd lyrics.
10. Juciy- 4 stars. Totally different sound than the rest of the CD (plus a great beat). Sounds a bit like the Bee-Gees.
11. Hollow- 4.7 stars. Good lyrics and (again) great beat.
12. Our Finest Year- 3.8 stars. Slow paced, but lyrics aren't bad.
13. Breathless- 4 stars. Sweet lyrics. A great song to end the CD with.
... Read more

From Amazon.ca

Like a Great White North-ern version of Johnny Cash, Ian Tyson is a walking legend, the lines on his weathered face roadmaps to his historic life.Tyson started making indentations in the '60s as a folk musician (one half of Ian and Sylvia) whose music has been covered by everyone from Neil Young and Judy Collins to Suzy Bogguss and Gordon Lightfoot. Songs like "Four Strong Winds" and "You Were Always On My Mind" were among Ian's contributions to Canadian musical history. He also hosted his own TV show, won the Order of Canada, and temporarily quit the music industry, preferring to be a rancher and rodeo rider.

Tyson could've played it safe on Songs from the Gravel Road by bringing in straight-up country pickers, but he decided to shake things up with the inclusion of respected jazz musicians, including Guido Basso on trumpet and Phil Dwyer on sax. As a result, straight-ahead country melodies like "So No More" become jazz-backed twang. That cut leads straight into a traditional cover of "One Morning In May", a song made famous by James Taylor; the tune is high on charm, complete with an exemplary fiddle solo and whimsical delivery. Tyson's great players also breeze through a host of other tunes, everything from songs infused with Spanish undertones ("Silver Bell", "Always Saying Goodbye") to a reggae track, "Range Delivery". That song is the disc's most charming cut, attributed in part to the tune's co-vocalist, Cindy Church (one fourth of the country group Quartette).There is nothing out of left field on the album, just an hour of country-laden comfort from one of Canada's most enduring roots legends. --Denise Sheppard ... Read more

Reviews (24)

BE YOURSELF!
Most people I know don't like TOAD because they don't like nickelback. Well I don't like TOAD because I LOVE Nickelback and hate to see them be ripped off in such a blatent, uninspired way. I know what your thinking too; "Well, chad kroger produced their first album, right?" Right, but plenty of producers birth artists with a UNIQUE and INDIVIDUAL sound far different from their own. "Well, they're both on the same label, right?" Right, but mariah carey and fall out boy are on the same label too, and do they sound ANYTHING like each other? Didn't think so. What we have here is a band that can't find a unique style of their own, so they latch on to the EXACT same melodies as chad's band and throw their own boring, cliched lyrics to make it "original". I tried to give this band a chance, being such a big nickelback fan and all, but they're just WAY too generic for my tastes. If you're a nickelback fan looking for similar artists, check out Crossfade or Thornley instead. This album just plain blows.

If Nickelback didn't get overplayed
Normally I hate to unjustly compare two bands, because I can think of nothing more irritating then to be pigeon held by what my predecessor has done. However, with that said, Theory of a deadman is to similar to Nickelback to be ignored. If you don't like the sound of Nickelback, then this album isn't for you, plain and simple. Every song has the same formulaic construction that Nickelback has made it's calling card. What is nice about this album is Tyler's voice has a bit more edge then Chad's. This album is very listenable, with very catchy hooks. I still have to give the edge to the self titled album, simply for the fact that this album does not have any of the definite singles that the first one had. There just isn't any topping "leg to stand on" or "Invisible man". If you are just learning about this band for the first time, I think I would recommend the first album over this one just because it's cheaper. I'm not sure whether or not it deserves the five star rating I gave it, there is nothing superior here, it's just so damn catchy it's hard to give it anything less. Thank you for your time.

Well-crafted album!
I'm a big rock fan, and I've noticed something.Just because an artist has a hit single doesn't mean that the rest of the songs on their albums are just as good...in fact, they are last-minute incomplete puzzles, which is why mp3 downloading exists.

However, I read good reviews about this album, and I've always liked TOAD's music style, so I bought it on impulse.I listened to every song, and I was not disappointed.Great album if you like country and rock.It is odd that a Canadian band would make a song called "Santa Monica" since that's in the Southwestern U.S, but I know that when they made this album, they put some deep thought into it.

Just as an indirect gesture to show how much I think their album is worth hard-earned money, I deleted my TOAD mp3's from my computer.

great
Wow, before there were even vocals on the first track I was hooked.From then on it has been one of 2 cds that I play in my car.

I love theory of a deadman
I must be honest, i didn't know who theory of a deadman was until i went to the fair last year in saskatoon, Saskatchewan. I went there for default, but theory of a deadman was the opening act, as soon as i heard "leg to stand on" i was hooked! Lets just say that when default came on stage i went on rides. After the fair i went to the mall and bought their first CD, Then i found out they had a second CD out and i rushed to the store and bought that one too. I love all the songs on Gasoline, this CD is almost better than their first. Theory of a deadman are a great band, their even better live. If you love this band as much as i do then I'll see you on Friday at prarieland park in saskatoon where they'll be preforming and this time their not the opening act.! ... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 2000

Heartbreaker opens with an argument about a Morrissey song before the band kicks into the sloppy and rollicking "To Be Young (Is to Be Sad, Is to Be High)," and certainly the gloomster's self-referential sadness hangs over Ryan Adams's songs. But Adams, the notoriously raucous frontman for the defunct Whiskeytown, is a country boy at heart if not in attitude, so there is a lingering pastoral beauty that imbues the album with a happy sweetness as well. That, along with Ryan's expressive, gravelly voice (equal parts Paul Westerberg and Merle Haggard), gives Heartbreaker enduring power. --Tod Nelson ... Read more

Reviews (114)

Far More Intimate Than "Gold" but Equally Stunning
For anyone who is thinking that Ryan Adams's debut album is similar to "Gold", let me stop you right now: "Heartbreaker" is far more intimate, less radio-friendly than "Gold". Which doesn't mean of course it is any less good.

"Heartbreaker" is in general a toned-down album, simply Ryan with accoustic guitar telling stories of aching love gone wrong and other stories of life. "Oh My Sweet Carolina" is a superb example of that (with lyrics like "I went on to Cleveland and I ended up insane" haha, take that Cleveland!) Other essential tracks are "My Winding Wheel", the stunning "Come Pick Me Up" (a full-band ballad with Ryan on harmonica and piercing lyrics; by far the best track on the album and one Ryan thankfully continues to play live regularly on his current tour), and "To Be the One" (just Ryan's acoustic guitar and harmonica, reminiscent of early Dylan.)

The album does contain a couple "Gold"-like uptempo songs, such as "To Be Young (Is to Be Sad, Is to Be High)" and the mean-rocking "Shakedown on 9th Street". But other than that, it's mainly Ryan by himself and his guitar. Finally, don't miss the opening hilarious discussion about Morrisey! What a hoot!

Ryan Adams will save rock and roll!
Ryan Adams has never been an upbeat sort of guy.

I mean that in the kindest way possible. His music may be as raucous as his attitude, but layed over the jangly guitars and honkeytonk piano is the sneer of a broken heart, not a hearkbreaker.

This album is truly one of the most heartfelt and touching pieces of acoustic rock I have ever heard. Adams' voice cracks a little in pain during songs like "Amy" when he sings "Oh, I miss you, oh, I love you, Amy. Do you still love me?"

All the trappings of poppy "I love you" lyrics are there, but Adams avoids being typical because his lyrics are continuously detailed. For example, on "Winding Wheel" he sings of a "bed of steel" and on "Damn, Sam (I Love A Woman that Rains)" he speaks of being "calm as a fruit stand in New York and maybe as strange." What it all means is a mystery to the listening audience, but it's compelling poetry.

All the lyrical honesty is backed by genuine musical knowhow. Adams [rocks] with his guitar on songs like "Shakedown on 9th Street" when he sets the stage for a barfight with an angry guitar and some vocal tricks.

This is a MUST own album for every fan of rock. Ryan Adams (along with The Strokes) could save rock and roll yet.

It's amazing he USED to sound like this.
This album, along with Pneumonia, are Ryan Adams' two best accomplishments. Heartbreaker is one of the reasons alternative country is so popular today. The album does run a little long, and his best work is on the first half of the album. However, this barely takes away from its quality. My favorite songs on the album (if you're interested) are "Winding Wheel" and "Come Pick Me Up."

It's unfortunate that Ryan Adams' new albums are such rubbish. I guess some artists who "have it" can just "lose it."

AWESOME Recording
I totally dig this album and me thinks it sound fantastic. I heard its coming out on SACD by the ORIGINAL MASTER RECORDING label and I pumped to hear that too :)

Might be as good as Adams gets
This is not close to a perfect album, but its high points are as good as American popular music can get. And this just might be as good as Adams gets. There's no doubt that Adams is immensely talented. But harnessing that talent takes some discipline. Adams descent into generally jerky behavior and alcoholic numbness have taken their toll and his subsequent releases on Lost Highway seem attenuated in comparison to this fine album. Other songwriters have hit low points only to come back with remarkably clear-headed and inspired work. It just might be that Adams will do this as well. I hope so at any rate. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Part of the '90s Seattle grunge triumvirate completed by Nirvana and Soundgarden, Pearl Jam debuted with Ten, their most accessible, least self-conscious album. Over time, PJ's rep as a politically correct band just a little too above it all to prostitute its music on MTV has nearly superseded the music. But before that, they were a simply an in-your-face, in-your-head, loud, melodic rock band. And lead singer Eddie Vedder was known for his possessed stage presence and a primal growl that sounded like it required three vocal chords. The personal, narrative singles "Alive," "Jeremy," and "Even Flow" catapulted the reluctant band into the 10-million-plus-sales division. Subsequent albums are more intricate, subtle, thematically complex, and, in many ways, better than Ten. But the band may never repeat the stampede caused by this debut. --Beth Bessmer ... Read more

Reviews (538)

The beginnings of greatness
This album is the one that anyone knows no matter how big of a Pearl Jam fan they are (even if they aren't one at all). That is a little unfortunate, as they have since surpassed this all time great album with more incredible albums of diverse music. But Ten is where it began. This album went to #1 after Nirvana's Nevermind but spent more time there (just stating a fact, I like both bands and they shouldn't be compared). It has their radio staples Alive, Even Flow, and the smash Jeremy. But don't overlook any song on this album. Their classic rock influences and modern touches give Ten a unified sound all its own. The songwriting puts it over the top; the emotional eruption of Black, the catharsis of the closer Release, and just high quality throughout the album. You can hear the Clapton and Zeppelin influences in the guitar work (which Stone and Mike shred up awesomely), and Eddie Vedder's awe-inspiring vocals set them apart from anything else at the time. One of the all-time greatest singers in rock history, Eddie's emotions are left bare here in the lyrics (such as the dysfunctional family issues of Alive) and he delivers them passionately, providing ear-peeling screams when the music demands it but also sounding great when the singing is barely more than a whisper (the opening of Black). All in all, this is a seminal album from one of the greatest and most challenging (both to music and the music business) bands in history, and the results are ours to enjoy forever.

A great example of early Seattle rock
I tried Pearl Jam a few years ago when "No Code" was released, and I wasn't really impressed. But when I heard "Ten" from a friend last week, I immediately went out and bought it. This is an amazing album that combines great riffs with melodic tunes and is always characterized by Ed Vedder's anguished yet strangely touching lyrics. While "Jeremy" was the moneymaker, as well as the album's masterpiece, "Alive" is truly a spectacle, with that incredible two-minute ending guitar solo and the chorus that everyone wants to sing along to. One of the best lines is on "Black," where Vedder sings "I know someday you'll have a beautiful life/I know you'll be a star in somebody else's sky/But why, why, why, can't it be, can't it be mine?" Really well-conceived metaphor. Vedder is enchanting to listen to; he always sounds like he can't decide between killing himself and finishing the song. Other great cuts include "Once," "Even Flow," and "Why Go," showcasing Pearl Jam's louder, faster sound, which fades into the slower melodies as the album progresses. This album is less grunge than Nirvana or Soundgarden, with a cleaner sound that makes it that much more enjoyable. While their popularity may have waned with time as well as their self-imposed lack of MTV play, this album really shows why they were once America's most popular rock band, and deservedly so.

Fantastic music, great debut album
Not so often, have I seen and heard so much good music on one record. I got the album two years after it was released and it was like an explosion, literally, at least for me. I was a little bit sceptical at the beginning, especially not liking Nirvana, but so surprised after hearing it. It was nothing like anything I heard before. The music is absolutely absorbing, breathtaking and soulful at the same time, great guitar playing, good rock with still enough rhythm to be listened to by the crowd. Not to talk about Eddie Vedder's voice and his way of singing. The first time I heard Alive I couldn't believe anybody can have a voice like that and can sing a great and said story like Jeremy or deeply personal lyrics like Alive or Black so well. Truly amazing. I would recommend this album to absolutely everybody who appreciates good music, good lyrics, and great voice. Probaly the best voice....

Too Much Hype, BUT good Debut
Ten, is to me, by far, WAYYY overrated. WIth that said, I CAN say it was a great debut. I mean, the releases were awesome, and Once, and MAYBE Black, which I am sure was NOT a release is great too. The other songs didnt seem to approach me as good as the listed ones here. Yet, if they had to put Yellow Ledbetter and Footsteps on here, and took off some of the filler towards the end. Not bad, I wouldnt pay anything over $15.00 for it,
Try "VS" instead. Their Masterpiece

Great Album!
this album is the *&^% jeremy is an awesome song it's the best song in the world! This album is the ****ing best album ever! This album is totally the @#$in &%*! No #$%! I love this album! I recomend it! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Mississippi-based quartet 3 Doors Down has only one thing that sets them apart from other hard rock bands: lead vocalist Brad Arnold is also the drummer. The group shops the sounds of Pearl Jam and the Goo Goo Dolls, pointing at what they like, picking it off the shelf, and throwing it into the stew.While the music on The Better Life, their debut, sounds overall both competent and confident, the songs themselves are equally uninspired and clichéd.For example, the riff from the track "Loser" is straight out of the Alice in Chains songbook, adding much more cringe-worthy lyrics ("Addiction needs a pacifier, the buzz of this poison is taking me higher").In fact, most of the lyrics zero in on well-worn rockthemes of aggravation, confusion, and frustration, feelings that 3 Doors Down will easily coax out of discriminating listeners. --Jason Josephes ... Read more

Reviews (343)

Rock Is Still Alive
3 Doors Down is doing what every good rock and roll band does at one point in their careers. They make catchy music, with lyrics that people can feel, put on a good show, and act like rock stars.

Brad Arnold is a rock lyricist. His lyrics reiterate everything said by everyone from Mick Jagger to Scott Stapp. Except Arnold molds them into his own and as it turns out, his lyrics sound fresh and worth something more than a cringe. "Kryptonite" is a catchy, driving rock song with words that most people can relate to at some point in their life. Especially teenagers who think they are invincible and yet depressed at the same time. "If I go crazy, then will you still call me Superman?"

The musicianship on the album, well, they aren't the Dave Matthews Band and they don't want to be. The music is Hard Rock at it's best, borderline metal, at times the harder side of Ozzy Osborne, at times, the lighter side of the Stone Temple Pilots. They range everywhere inbetween and pull all of their songs off.

No song on this album is a clunker, lyrically or musically. The music doesn't seem tired even though critics will say the music has been done before. It's rock and roll music and as long as rock is appreciated, this album is still a great one.

Great music, lyrics and overall feeling
I'm deeply in love with both, heavy metal and alternative rock, and 3 Doors Down is just the perfect mix between these two. The CD is just great, the lyrics are perfect, and for those who say that they aren't that good, try to look deeper into them, each song has a great meaning, and if you pay enough attention you might realise that the album actually is telling 1 story... Guitars are excellent, both riffs and solos, that although not really complicate or hard to play sound great. So, here is how I rate the tracks in this album (Everythign I say about each song is from MY point of view, including interpretations):

Kryptonite: Great song, great lyrics... Talks about a strong friendship between two people... not necessarily friendship, but a strong relationship that is fading away... ( 2nd best song 5/5)

Loser: Talks about addiction... but not necessarily to drugs... not at all... Kryptonite talks about a strong relationship, this song talks about the main guy realising that he has become addicted to the other person in the relationship. And even think of suicide... (Best song 5/5)

Duck and Run: THe guy says he won't give up and that he will keep on living no matter what... (4/5)

Not Enough: Here the guy is telling that other person that he is just sick of being abused and used, and that he won't stand it any longer... unfortunately... at then he realises he can't stop... (In all the choruses it goes like this: There's too much of you, but there's not enough of me.... but at the end it says: There's too much of you There's too much of me.)
(Great Song 4.5/5)

Be Like That: The same guy, wanting to be like other person... to see if his life is as bad as he feels it is... At the end he feels he is slowly falling into his addiciton even more..(I feel I'm fallin into this again...) (Amazing song, although the slowest track on the album... If you like fast songs, you might not like it 5/5)

...

a nickle or two
if i had a nickle for every time i had listened this CD striaght through without skipping a track i would have... a nickle or two! The fact of the matter is that it has a couple of songs worth a listen, but they arent numerous enough to warrent the cost of the CD. A bit of a disapointment. There are also alot of bands who are better and more consistant, my advice... buy one of their albums.
Over all it has but a few reasons why u would want to buy it:
1. You are a die hard fan of theirs (highly unlikely)
2. The head of the Russian mafia has a gun to your head(slightly more likely)
3. For keeping the King of England out of your face (just play "Down Poison" and he'll run(a decent reason but u will also suffer))
4. As an expensive coaster (nuff said)

Very raw, no-nonsense rock!
While their second album is already selling huge and on its 4th single, I'd like to recall their first album from late 1999. Real, raw, no nonsense rock and roll! They tear it up on Kryptonite, Duck and Run, and much of the second half. And Loser is a good power ballad. Starts off innocent, then before it starts to go into Diane Warren overkill after the 2nd chorus, it avoids that and goes into that crashing section of guitars for some 20 to 30 seconds, before going back quietly again to its normal state! Dynamite songmaking there! The album kind of recalls late-'80s rock and AC/DC's "Back In Black" with the raw attitude. The landscapes of the songs match well to the area where they're from, Escatawpa, Mississippi, where I went through that area to Biloxi in 2001 and 2003. It's still young right now, but it's going to be a classic album 5 to 10 years from now!

It is simply too good
I actually bought this album for my friend and just feel in love with this from the moment I heard it.... Firstly it was difficult to find this album this side of the globe and when I did I was the lucky one to capture the last in the store.... I cant get enough listening to loser, not enough, be like that, life of my own and better life.... Now I have an even more tough task of getting a hold of Away from the sun..... the same store are going to be importing them for me and I cant wait till I can get a hand on them......or else i will need to shed some extra dough to import it myself from amazon.... if you like this kind of music just grab it without thinking twice... ... Read more

Amazon.com

Five for Fighting is actually just one guy with a rather substantial chip on his shoulder who's taken his name from the amount of time a hockey player spends in the penalty box for fighting. Los Angeles native and erstwhile prodigy John Ondrasik really knows his way around a melody, bolstering it with a dramatic sense of timing and rhythm like a more modern and hipper Elton John. And that defiant chip does makes for powerful poetry, although oftentimes he sacrifices logic and clarity for the sake of iambic pentameter. While "Superman" is a catchy affair about the restrictions of being superhuman and the desire to belong ("I'm only a man in a silly red sheet looking for special things inside me"), it's doubtful that anyone who ever read a DC comic would believe that Superman would ever be "digging for kryptonite on this one-way street," since a loose fragment from Superman's home planet might turn him into a blubbering infant or a giant ant. At best, Five for Fighting follows in the narrative-based path paved by Counting Crows. --Jaan Uhelszki ... Read more

Reviews (108)

Definitely a keeper!
I heard "Superman" once (that's right, ONCE) on the radio here in Baltimore and became instantly committed to buying this album. I think "Superman" is a fantastic tune, comprised of great songwriting and performance. Though I had never heard any music from Five for Fighting before, I guessed that the single song I heard on the radio was evidence of this band's potential for excellent music. My first listen to the album confirmed my speculations. Five for Fighting has compiled a set of great songs on America Town, all of which are accessible music on the softer side of rock. The songs on this disc were written with special attention to poetic lyrics, often poignant and moving, that combine with solid musicianship to deliver a highly entertaining musical experience. "Superman" continues to be one of my favorites on this disc, but a number of the other songs are also quite engrossing, including "Bloody Mary (A Note on Apathy)", "Jainy", and "Boat Parade". Interestingly, after I bought this disc here in Baltimore, I took a business trip to Salt Lake City, where I heard "Superman" played all over the radio! Quite different from Baltimore, but I was glad to see this band getting some radio play in another part of the country - they deserve it. I definitely recommend this album to you Amazon.com listeners!

ONE HIT WONDER
THE RETURN OF SINGER-SONGWRITERS?
Well,kinda.David Gray may be exceptional as a singer/songwriter,
so are Ryan Adams,Pete Yorn,and Rufus Wainwright.But how about
John Ondrasik a.k.a Five For Fighting(it's like a Nine Inch Nails suitation,folks)? Well,kinda...
"America Town",Ondrasik's major-label debut,went to #54
on the pop charts and went gold due to the lush lullaby "Superman
(It's Not Easy)"-a top 15 hit as of this writing.
But after listening to "America Town",I wonder if "Superman"
is the only quality song he can come up with.This album is
extremely underdelovoped.It's needs more stucure.With the exception of "Jainy",there's no other song on this album that
really soars.
So it's sad to say but it looks like after "Superman" runs its course,Ondsarik will be a well,one-hit-wonder.But that may change if he comes up with a better album,next time round.
For the meantime,I recommend:David Gray's "White Ladder",Ryan
Adams' "Gold",and Pete Yorn's "Songsforthemorningafter".

Solid songs...Wobbly CD
Like many others, I really liked the song "Superman" so I bought the CD.

The CD in and of itself is really...not solid. The CD as a whole isn't very good, however when a song is good...its GOOD.

Superman is such an example.
Love Song is amazing too. It's about a child's point of view when his parents are getting a divorce and everything about the song (lyrics and melody) are totally fresh.
I enjoyed the Last Great American and Easy Tonight was alright.
Jainy was pretty great too...

I'm not sure it was really worth my money to get the whole CD, but I'm glad I have it, and if you've got a couple bucks to spare and you REALLY liked superman, give it a try! maybe you'll like the stuff I didn't.

A great CD.
American Town is in my opinion one of the best CDs of this decade. A soulful reflection of the human heart that gives us a mirror of what we are as people. John Ondrasik's soulful tunes from Bloody Mary to the classic Superman goes through a montage of emotions from lost love to loneliness with a poignancy that really hits home. Superman, which was the first tune I heard from this CD is a prime example of John's understanding of the human heart, giving a sad and somber look at a perfect man who's deep down inside is just as human and as insecure as every one else. This is the first CD I brought from this group (or man if you know the truth, but it will not be the last.

Check it out.

It's Not Easy Tonight
This album is filled with some very emotional piano, acoustic guitar, and even a few tracks that have an elecyric guitar pieces. This is in no way a heavy band, so if your looking for some hard rock or metal look elsewhere. The piano and acoustic guitar are the primary instruments here.

There are songs about the insecureties (Superman (its not easy), and songs about relationships that don't work out (Easy Tonight, Bloody Mary), and other sad stuff. This is very emotional work, but this is not one of those whiny emo bands like Dashboard Confessional. This is a talented man just getting some stuff off of his chest in a non-whiny way that a lot of people can connect with and appreciate.

A+ stuff here baby. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This 1991 Seattle supergroup brought together Chris Cornell and Matt Cameron of Soundgarden with the surviving members of Mother Love Bone (Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard) and Eddie Vedder, later of Pearl Jam. The experiment worked. Cornell shines, seeming more comfortable here on this tribute to his former roommate and deceased MLB lead singer Andrew Wood than with his own band. "Hunger Strike" and "Say Hello 2 Heaven" combine glam and grunge better than anything in Love Bone's catalog, while "Wooden Jesus" is less didactic than anything in Pearl Jam's oeuvre. Most of the songs may be about loss and addiction, but this is compelling music for black days. --Charles R. Cross ... Read more

Reviews (87)

Cornell aint that bad
When I first heard the Vedder/Cornell colaboration on the song "Hunger Strike" I was quite enamered with the album. Im a huge Pearl Jam fan and not having heard any of the other tracks I made the assumption that Eddie Vedder did the vocals for the entire album. After I purchased the cd and listened to it all the way through I was upset to find that Cornell did the singing on the remainder of the album. Disheartened, I put the album on the shelf and forgot about it. Months later, bored, i put the cd in for another listen. After hearing the tracks a second time they didnt sound as bad. After the third listen they sounded pretty good and after the fourth try i actually enjoyed the c.d. My respect began to grow for Chris Cornell and the album spawned my future love for Soundgarden. Something about his screaming, impassioned vocals coupled with the heavy looping guitar work of the boys from PJ appealed to me. The cd is now one of my favorites from the alternative era. Check out the catchy hook from "Reach Down" and the off key guitar riffs from "Four Walled World." They will take you straight back to 1991.

Salvation
"Now I'm warm from the candle/ But I feel too cold to burn/ He came from an island/ And he died from the street/ He hurt so bad like a soul breaking/ But he never said nothing to me/ Say hello to heaven..."

Understand, Temple of the Dog was not meant to be a commodity. IT was a one time collaboration of several talented musicians to honor the memory of Andrew Wood, the late lead singer of Mother Love Bone. Chris Cornell, Mike McCready, Matt Cameron, Jeff Ament, and Stone Gossard joined their efforts to create this album. Eddie Vedder's voice is present in certain songs. All in all, this is an amazing collection of emotion-driven ballads, mellow yet powerful, representing a tough time.

The most recognizable song on here would probably be "Hunger Strike", in which Cornell and Vedder sing separately, then together. If you are a fan of Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, or Mother Love Bone, this should interest you. I think that anyone who appreciates the mellow side of grunge rock will like TOTD. Remember it was only meant to be a one-time thing and enjoy it for all it's worth.

Quite Possibly The Best Single Rock Album Ever Recorded
And I say that without the slightest shred of pretense or hype. I bought this CD the day it came out in 1991, and through the ensuing 13+ years it has just kept getting better.

I find it frankly mindboggling that anyone lacking the musical sense to appreciate this album would bother reviewing anything but their own reasons for continuing to live. Every single note is deeply emotive and powerful; I can't think of a single album I liked more since, and prior...I'd have to go back to Zeppelin at least, and maybe even to Sgt. Pepper.

Knowing the backstory of the album just makes it even more powerful. Those who dismiss it as pretentious or self-absorbed can be no more than emotionally crippled automatons living in a dull gray world of banality and mediocrity; nothing else could explain such an attitude toward this wonderful 55 minutes.

When the Stainds and Nicklebacks and Days of the News and Limp Bizkits and Creeds (*spit*) of the world are nothing more than long-forgotten and painful memories of a bad parody of real music, this genuine, heartfelt, quality rock, played from the soul and with ridiculous levels of talent to boot, will remain as the little unheard-of album that set the standard for decades to come.

Today's crop of corporate-constructed, mass-produced dreck don't even possess the presence of mind to know that they should pray to whatever diety they hold dear that maybe someday they might get lucky and create something with a thousandth of the power, talent, and value of this incredible album.

Cornell, Vedder, MLB.
they dont make em like this anymore. If you gave this classic cd anythin less than 4 stars youre a flaming homosexual (unless you really are a homosexual, then your just an idiot)

Wow, I can't believe no one reviewed it
This CD is a bit underground but definately a classic. Even if you don't like 'grunge' this CD still works. It's got a touch of emotion that is often lacking in SG. The melodies are beautiful, the lyrics match. This CD is better than most, if not all, PJ and SG CDs. It's just magical. Suggested tracks: All Night Long, Wooden Jesus, Say Hello 2 Heaven, Call Me a Dog. Solo fans will also like Reach Down. DO NOT BASE THE WHOLE CD ON HUNGER STRIKE! It's no where near the best song on here, it's one of my least favorites. It's practically the only song with Eddie. Actually, I think it the only song with him. Either way, in general, good CD to have. ... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 2001

The considerable promise carried forth on Gillian Welch's first two albums is thoroughly fulfilled on Time (The Revelator). Welch has traded the guidance of her previous producer, T Bone Burnett, for the sympathetic studio skills of her longtime guitarist-harmony singer David Rawlings, who loosens the reins just enough to allow moments of spontaneity to sparkle within the duo's spare, eloquent playing. "Revelator" is an instant classic, perhaps the first great folk song of the 21st century. "I Want to Sing That Rock and Roll" is three minutes of Louvins/Everlys-style bliss. "April the 14th, Part 1" haunts its historical context with an achingly melancholy melody. It all leads up to the epic 14-minute "I Dream a Highway," one of the finest closing tracks ever put on record. --Peter Blackstock ... Read more

Reviews (96)

Simple and beautiful...who needs a band?
This is the best new releases I've heard in a while.

On one end of the musical spectrum, you have all the stuff that comes out today sounding really over-produced and over-edited. Sometimes it's hard to tell whether the artist you're listening to really sounds like how they're portrayed on the CD you buy. "Can she really sing like that, does his guitar really sound like that, or are those studio 'tricks of the trade' I'm hearing?"

On the other end of the spectrum, you have Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, both on guitar and vocals. No effects...not even any electric instruments. True "roots" music. It doesn't get much simpler than that. The whole CD is so sparse and desolate sounding. You can just tell it's all real. Gillian's vocals (as well as her lyrics) leave you with this haunting feeling, particularly "Revelator," "Dear Someone," "Elvis Presley Blues," and the long and driven out (maybe a bit *too* long) "I Dream a Highway."

I'll definately be checking out her other works soon; I like this style.

Beatuful, sparkling music!
Gillian and Dave have done it again! They have created an album of simple, early American style folk music, and churned out an album, timeless in quality and as attention grabbing as an album can be.

First, all 10 songs here are arranged for the duo of two accoutsit guitars (the second track, "My First Lover" substituting a banjo for a guitar). There are no effects (or so it sounds like) and a few tracks sound as if they don't even have windscreens on the microphones; all of these tracks, it is safe to guess, werer recorded with no overdubs. (Of course, track 6, "I want to sing that rock & Roll was recorded live at the Grand Ole Opry on what sounds like one and only one stage microphone).

All of this, on another record, could add up to real crap, but on a Gillian Welch record, I could imagine it no other way. It sounds as if the two are literally playing these in your living room and when you think of that possibility, your heart breaks because you wish they truly were.

And what about substantially? My favorites are "My First Lover", a strange mix of appalachian banjo-like bluegrass and 70's rock sensibility; "My Dear Someone", a complete and sparkling throwback to the old country ballads a la Patsy Cline; "Everything is Free Now", a more modern folk tune with bobbing-and-weaving lyrics that I suspect are about napster; and last but not least "I Want to Sing that Rock & Roll", which appeared in a studio version on the CD of music inspired by "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou".

A favorite of most listeners is the 14 minute ending track called "I Dream a Highway". It consists, really, of one chord progression with lyrics that gradually and sweetly unfold to reveal a Dylan-like landscape (almost a story but not quite). While it is a great track that can easily put you in a achingly sweet trance, it is not quite a favorite of mine, particularly as its already slow pulse gets periodically slower as the track was recorded without a click-track. If that makes me snobby, my apologies.

In conclusion, I first heard the album last week and have yet to get most of the songs out of my head for any more than an hour at a time.

Hold your breath...
This is a gorgeous album. Like many people, I first learned about Welch & Rawlings through their work on "O Brother Where Art Thou" and "Down by the Mountain." Despite having little previous interest in bluegrass, I was instantly hooked. I finished collecting their albums this year, and was delighted to find out that "Time (The Revelator)" was the best of a very good body of work.

I'm especially fond of the eerie title track, "Revelator," a contemplation of Welch's own success. The songwriter successfully walks a fine line between invective and self-pity, and her refrain -- "Time's the revelator" -- is at once fierce yet chilling. Rawlings's guitar accompaniment is equally fantastic; he's an astonishing musician. Together, they make the song into a small masterpiece.

(Incidentally, I saw the two of them play this at a venue in Atlanta several months ago. When they got to a particular four-letter word towards the end of the song, the seemingly grave audience cheered with delight).

Other highlights:
The sweetly seductive "Elvis Presley Blues" will get to you even if you've never cared for Elvis. It seems like pure heartland at first, but has a touch of Lou Reed-like suggestiveness.
"I Want to Sing That Rock And Roll" was the first Welch/Rawlings tune I ever loved, and it's still a good one. Like other reviewers, I wish they had re-recorded the track for this album; the ovation at the end is a little disconcerting.
"My First Lover" is the album's most leisurely and enjoyable song; thudding power chords recall a lazy, stupefying roll in the hay.
"I Dream a Highway" is the album's other masterpiece, a 14 minute ballad with a narcotic, haunting intensity. Despite its length and repetitive melody, it never gets boring; instead, it invokes an eternal road trip through loneliness an