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Posthumous releases fall into two categories: those which the artist was working on at the time of their death, and those which are gathered from every nook and cranny to keep fans enthused and cash registers ringing. Elliott Smith's from a basement on the hill is of the former variety. It was close to completion at the time of his untimely death. Over the course of the set's 15 songs, Smith's powerful songwriting and production skills are shown in their full breadth. From thickly interlocked chordal guitar riffs ("Coast to Coast") to shimmering melancholia ("A Fond Farewell"), the songs are each brought to their own particular focus by whatever means were most appropriate. There are lush background vocals, keyboard washes, pounding rhythms, and heart rending balladry. This disc is a sad goodbye to richly emotive artist. --David Greenberger ... Read more

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Singer-songwriter John Mayer fills his debut, Room for Squares, with pep talks to and advertisements for himself. Even when questioning his young life, Mayer's doubts come off glib; not one second of "Why Georgia" convinces that "the stirring in my soul" keeps the artiste awake at night. Between his Dave Matthews-wannabe vocals and the accomplished but bland lite rock of his band, he could be just as easily offering tunes for hire to a coming-of-age network series as making a stand for himself and his worldview. The premise of "City Love"--that Mayer couldn't find his way around Manhattan until finding a girlfriend to root him to the place--is nice but not edifying. "My Stupid Mouth" is similarly fuzzy; letting us in on just what he said to alienate a dinner partner would've gone a long way toward fleshing out the song's pat self-deprecation. Ultimately, Mayer comes off less like a commiserating friend than a blabbermouth who's forever forgetting there's someone else in the room. And instead of whining about a discarded lunch box ("83"), dude, learn to brown-bag it the way the rest of us did. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (971)

John Mayer is the next best thing for pop rock
So pop rock might not be an accurate description of JM. I like to call it a little bit of Sting, Dave Matthews, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and some honey thrown in the pot to make what he does. John's music might be ambigious, but the emotion in his voice explains all the convictions that he sings about, and then some. Although the re-mixing on this album leaves a bit to be desired (I was somewhat disappointed by the changes in Wonderland), the addition of 3X5 was very much welcomed. From beginning to end, RFS helps bring out all types of emotions; No Such Thing, the opening track, Love Song For No One, and 3X5 invoking a need to dance, and the sweet but sad St. Patrick's Day instilling a feeling of sadness and sorrow, yet hope for a better day. This is one cd that you would like to have in your collection if you are a big acoustic fan, like DMB or Sting, or just want to find something a little different. Also, for the bit superstitious, try and figure out why there is no #13 track on the cd.

John? or John Mayers Band?
I bought the John Mayer CD the other day just to see if he truly was a DMB wannabe or not. (Dave Matthews happens to be my favorite band by the way.) I put the CD in my car stereo and took off driving. At first I was a bit confused and thought I had accidently bought a new DMB album that I didnt even know existed. (He even had a song on his album named '83') Then as I listened I noticed that Mayer actually has a sound of his own. Even though his singing is remarkably close to that of Dave's, his guitar riffs are more upbeat and have more variation with less strumming and more picking. I thought to myself he is just living a little kid's dream (atleast I always dreamed of being Dave Matthews) and since his music isnt quite as catchy as Dave's he would die out as quickly as he came in. But even if he does it is still fun to listen to a new song once in awhile in between my looping tracks of Dave Matthews Band that I listen to all day long. Especially the song Your Body is a Wonderland. (This song sounds like it would fit in nicely with Dave's older stuff he used to write.) I would recommend this to anyone who likes Dave Matthews, but dont throw out the old Crash CD to make room for this one, because you will soon find yourself coming back to it.

oh god i hate this man.
Jesus this was bad when it was called Under The Table and Dreaming and now its just 10 times as bad under its new name, Room for Squares. This album sucks. Thats all there is to it. No one in their right mind would find this crap good...oh wait I forgot about all those frat boys and girls wearing white hats. Nevermind I guess they need driving music for those long rugged trips in their Ford Explorers to Starbucks.

No such thing, peeps!
John Mayer is a huge Dave Matthews-wannabe, and it's obvious in his voice and music prefs. Overrated, though I do enjoy "No Such Thing."

One of the greatest lyricists of the modern era.
Room for Squares is just brilliant for everyone. It is easy to listen to, sing, along to and relate with.

Every song has a different edge to it and while some critics may feel he is a little self-indulgent it makes a refreshing change to the f-ing and blinding "sung" by rappers and nu-metal bands.

John Mayer is a wonderful songwriter and conveys it all with brilliant tunes and a relaxing voice, almost like he is singing it to you over lunch. It is a different mix, but one that works so well.

If there was only one CD I could take onto a desert island, this would be it. ... Read more

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U2's second decade often seemed as preoccupied with the band's burgeoning superstardom--and how to confront/confound it--as it did with creating music. The band managed only four albums during the era (only half of its '80s output), projects whose gestations seemed perennially plagued by turmoil as much as mercurial creative instincts. But as this anthology chronicles, U2 ultimately managed a considerable feat: producing a memorable, lasting body of work in a decade where one of pop music's chief attributes was its disposability. The disc mixes hits like "Mysterious Ways" and "One" with seductive soundtrack cuts (the title track to Wim Wenders's Until the End of the World, Batman Forever's "Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me"), new mixes of "Discotheque," "Staring at the Sun," and "Numb," and a pair of strong new tracks, the Orbit mix of "Electrical Storm" and "The Hands that Built America," the title track from Martin Scorsese's Gangs of New York. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (60)

All They Couldn't Leave Behind
U2's 1990s "Best Of" album is a rather strange collection. The band recorded only four studio albums during that time, all of which ardent U2 fans most likely already own. So this disc is for casual fans who want only the highlights, right? Well, not exactly. 1991's "Ach-tung Baby" gets the most conventional treatment--the four selections from it ("Even Better than the Real Thing," "Mysterious Ways," "One" and "Until the End of the World") are all the original versions. Likewise, the band's most recent studio album, "All That You Can't Leave Behind" is grossly underepresnted with only two selections ("Beautiful Day" and "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of") that are also original versions.

It is the rest of the material where things really get strange. The three songs from the album "Pop" are all remixes, probably in acknowledgement that it was U2's least successful album. Likewise, the "Zooropa" cut "Numb" gets a similar realtering, but one that serves it very well. Otherwise that album is also underrepresented. Of the non-studio album tracks, "The Hands That Built America" from the "Gangs of New York" soundtrack is a ho-hum ballad (like the movie), while the two other new songs included add little to the band's legacy. The CD booklet, however, is quite cool--lots of photographs of the band looking pretty slick for a bunch of forty-somethings.

Overall, "The Best of...1990-2000" contains a lot of outstanding music, but is nevertheless a terribly confused anthology.

Classic songs and awesome new ones!
Well, I've read a few reviews on this album, and all have been either ok or negative. However I personally believe that these are some of U2's best songs ever. They're a bit more electronic than the ones on the previous Best Of album, but that's the normal course of evolution for this band. Plus, it includes hits from the 2 best U2 albums ever, Achtung Baby and All That You Can't Leave Behind. The new songs are VERY good, especially "Electrical Storm". William Orbit is a genius and it's great that he added his ethereal sound to this track. Other great additions are "Miss Sarajevo" featuring Luciano Pavarotti and "Hold Me Thrill Me Kiss Me Kill Me" from the Batman Forever soundtrack. While it's a great album, I think it'll suffer from the I-like-their-earlier-stuff-better syndrome, which is a popular opinion for second greatest hits albums. Look at Madonna's GHV2, another fabulous album that has been ignored for this same reason. I own both U2 Best Of albums plus quite a few of their studio albums. Maybe it's because in 1990 I was 13, but I actually like this newer stuff better...

The best
Its very hard for me to be critical of anything U2 does because they are just an amazing band! I've been totally into them for over 20 years and my collection is humungus. Having read some of the reviews posted here, I can however understand where they are coming from. I have always believed that 'greatest hits' and 'bests of's' are always aimed at a mass audience and not entirely focused on dedicated fans - fans should already have all the tracks anyway!

This compliation, for U2 hardcore fans, is a little dissapointing. I thought the first best of was ok but lacked an obvious structure. Would it not have been better to start from the very beginning and include all the rare original tracks - Boy/Girl, Another Day and Celebration (I cant believe this was not included - also, I wish they had taken that awful Xylophone (spell?) out of I Will Follow). Maybe all this will come together in the future when a Beatles-like Anthology comes out. It is just obviously aimed at the mass audience who wont buy U2 albums but like the odd song.

The Best of 1990-2000 has a little something extra that the first didnt. The remixes of the songs was a bonus for all U2 fans - if you prefer the originals then simply play the album versions. What happened on Mysterious Ways though? There is a slight change in lyrics from the original single, yet there is no mention on the sleeve.

I am trying to be as objective as I can here which is not easy. Everything they do is superb and cant be knocked. I will only try to comment on things I find a little negative (not easy for me to do).

I was never a big fan of Even Better Than The Real thing and only gave that song its due respect when I heard it live.

Electrical Storm is a must because its not on an album - the other mix on the flip side is better. It does seem to follow the usual U2 template that they seem to be sticking to more than ever though (Edge could have really gone to town on a lead at the end but seemed to hold back).

Gone - yes, the album version is better and yes I will only play the album version. This version seems an after thought from developing it live but its far better live.

The Hands That Built America - This could have been done better and lacks what it promises in the beginning.

Staring At The Sun - I would have prefered this song if it hadn't been done by U2!!! It so un-U2. What are those lyrics??? Still, it has a feeling and the feeling is good. Its a cracker live.

Numb - This is one of the few U2 songs I dont like at all. Why is it here?

I would like to have heard a remix of The Fly. Granted, the original is murky. If they could have redone it as they did on the Boston concert DVD I would have been happy - now if I want The Fly, I play Boston!

Thats the negative comments out of the way.

My advice, like most of the other reviewers is - if you are into U2 buy the albums. If you are just passing by, buy the compilations.

I too like U2 :)
While admittedly not a diehard fan of U2, I remember checking out my sister's U2 cds as a teen and I liked some of the songs. This is a good compilation of what I feel is their better more talented era, although I love "Sunday Bloody Sunday" from the other "best of" U2 cd.

David Rehak
author of "Love and Madness"

Clearly, not a "best of"
The second U2 "best of" was a waste of time. The first one, "The best of 1980-1990" was a pretty good compilation, but quite short ( 65 minutes, U2 could have added 2 extra songs like Gloria, Out Of Control or MLK ). This time, this compilation is 50% horrible.
The hands that built America is so boring, one of the worst U2 songs, without a doubt. All the remixes are so bad !!!!. This is overall a big, big mistake. This is not the best of. I remember once participating in a U2 poll, in which they asked to the fans the best song from each album, before this "best of". One of those songs was "Please"... so where is this song ??? why U2 didn't include it ??. I don't know why U2 keep putting "Until The end Of The World" as one of their best songs. "The Fly" or "Who's Gonna Ride..." were real songs for a "Best Of".
This would be my "Best of 1990-2000"

1- Even Better Than The Real Thing
2- Mysterious Ways
3- Beautiful Day
4- Electrical Storm
5- One
6- Miss Sarajevo ( COMPLETE )
7- Stay ( faraway so close )
8- Stuck In A Moment You Can't Get Out Off
9- Lemon
10- Who's Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses
11- The Fly
12- Discotheque ( ORIGINAL )
13- Hold me, Thrill me, Kiss me, Kill me
14- Staring At The Sun ( ORIGINAL )
15- Please ( single )
16- If God Will Send His Angels ( single ) ... Read more

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Billy Idol's secret is one that he shares with, of all people, Trent Reznor--the ability to take a pop base and disguise it with layers of other genres, most notably hard rock. His adaptability is on display throughout this 16-song career retrospective. It's amazing just how well the former Generation X frontman's songs have aged. Songs such as the disco-punk hit "Dancing with Myself," "White Wedding," and "Cradle of Love" are as appealing as ever, as is even "Shock to the System," just about the only listenable thing from 1993's Cyberpunk, an object lesson on the inadvisability of jumping blindly on a bandwagon. Fleshing out this best-of is a newly recorded cover of Simple Minds' "Don't You (Forget About Me)," as well as a live, acoustic version of "Rebel Yell," and a few other choice rarities. --Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Ultimate Hits Collection From '80s Icon
Most of us know Billy Idol from a few songs, most notably "Rebel Yell," "Dancing With Myself," "White Wedding," "Eyes Without a Face," and his remake of Tommy James and the Shondells' "Mony Mony". All of those hits are included, but so are less-popular but equally great songs such as the haunting "Sweet Sixteen" and the open-road scream of "Don't Need a Gun". The album, which is conveniently in chronological order, wisely does not venture too heavily into Idol's impressive but commercially-ignored album "Cyberpunk," and it only includes one new song--a surprisingly good remake of Simple Minds' "(Don't You) Forget About Me" [useless fun fact: Billy Idol almost sang the original version back in 1985]--but the album is full of hits. That in itself is impressive since most greatest hits albums are nothing but a few stellar singles with some also-rans pasted on for effect, but it's doubly so in Idol's case since a lot of Idol's minor hits are just as good as his bigger ones. If you already own all of Idol's albums, you shouldn't waste your money on an album that only has one new song, but for those just getting into Idol, this is an excellent place to start.

Now THIS is Vital.
I remember so long having to make due with his remixed "Vital Idol" disc for a "hits" package. This is what I wish I had all that time. Don't get me wrong, it was good, but this is way more complete. 16 rebel tracks in all. "White Wedding", "Rebel Yell", and "Cradle of Love" are the BIG hits, but it's "Eye's Without a Face", "To be a Lover", and "Sweet Sixteen" that make this totally awesome! It's hard to pick favorites though, these really are ALL classic songs from the blonde, punk Elvis. Included are the covers "Don't you forget about me", and The Doors "LA Woman" from the "Charmed Life" album. I actually would have liked another track from that one. His newer "Shock to the System" is pretty good too. I would highly suggest getting this. You'll be "dancing with yourself" in no time.

Greatest Hits of Billy Idol
Billy Idol was simply one of my favorite artists of the 80's, he was not only a good singer but also a charismatic stage artist. Idol( who become a big teen idol, through the 80's)started as a punk rocker in Generation X in the late 70's, it wasn't before he started solo that he become the big star. His Punk image still existed but he mixed the punk with new wave 80's rock to become one of the 80's big names.

On this album you'll find all of his big hits. Including trademark "Rebel Yell" where the screams the lyrics, catchy uptempo "Hot In The City" "Dancing with Myself" with Generation X. His R&B influented version of "Mony Mony" and his own "Got To Be a Lover", Goth "White Wedding" And beautiful ballads "Sweet Sixteen" and "Eyes without a face". For the first time we'll also get his 1990 hit "Cradle of Love" on a compilation. But also "Shock the System" from Cyberpunk, (a album from 1993 that didn't work out) and a un-released version of Don't You (Forget About Me).

In 1988 Billy Idol released a best of album called "11 of the best" and apart from 5 news song this album is simular. However "Cradle of Love" one of his best songs was not released yet back then. I think this album is wortwhile, especially if you like Billy Idol. This is the ultimate collection, i don't expect to see another "greatest hits" album anytime soon, so get this.

Finally a greatest hits that contains ALL his hits
This greatest hits is so good and so complete that you can sell your other billy idol cd's.

Has every good song that I know of from him.

Essential Idol!!!
This great CD collects the best of Billy Idol's career on one nice shiny CD!!! 16 great songs in all!!!Essential Idol!!! Includes:Dancing With Myself,Mony Mony,White Wedding,Rebel Yell,Flesh for Fantasy,Cradle Of Love,LA Woman,Catch My Fall,Eyes Without A Face,Rebel Yell(live and acoustic),and more!!! A great one disc collection!!!Great remastered sound!!! Two thumbs up!!! Five stars!!! A+ ... Read more

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An all-star cast has joined forces to produce a wonderful CD and, if that weren't exciting enough, a portion of the proceeds will help restore music education in the U.S. public school system through the VHI Save the Music Foundation. Clever new renditions of familiar Muppets and Sesame Street tunes abound, but Semisonic's Dan Wilson, ex-Del Fuego artist Dan Zanes, Toad the Wet Sprocket's Glen Phillips, and Bleu wrote songs for this album, and Tom Waits's lullaby "Bend Down the Branches," originally recorded for a short film, makes its debut on this CD. No offense, Kermit, but the frog's 1979-vintage "The Rainbow Connection" never sounded so sultry as Sarah McLachlan's version here. Another favorite is "The Hoppity Song," a rock & roll ode to Five for Fighting frontman John Ondrasik's son Johnny. Make no mistake--this isn't one of those CDs that is more for adults than kids--songs about hygiene, the alphabet, and crying ("It's All Right to Cry" originally from Marlo Thomas's Free to Be You and Me) are truly "for the kids." That said, adults will enjoy hearing their favorite artists switch gears in this gentle (mostly, not Bleu's energetic "Snow Day!"), upbeat compilation, which combines just the right blend of familiar sing-along songs and exciting new material. The booklet doubles as a foldout coloring book, with illustrations for each song. A fun and noble effort for a fun and noble cause. --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (33)

Best of the Kids music
I was tired of hearing The Wiggles and Sesame Street had lost it's charm after the 1000 time listening to it, so I tried this CD-What a Gem!! I have a 2 yr old and a 10 yr old. They both love it. I love that it's artists that I like and music that they like and the lyrics arent questionable. It's a fun CD with varied styles. Sarah McLaughlin and The Rainbow Connection makes me teary-eyed, it's a great rendition. We love Guster and We've Got to Be Clean, and all the others.The Tom Waite song is my personal least favorite, but it's even acceptable.

I eagerly recommend this if you're tired of the same hum ho kids music. This is one you will love just as much as them.

Definitely worth a La La La Listen!
I bought this album primarily because it had a new Barenaked Ladies track on it (and since they haven't been touring this year I am STARVED for new BNL tracks) - but also because I am one of the "Sesame Street" generation & thought it would be fun to have a cd with some classic kids tunes sung by some of my favorite artists from today.

I was not disappointed!

The tracks on this cd are funny, sweet, nostalgic and even poignant (especially Sarah McLachlan doing a truly beautiful rendition of Kermit's "Rainbow Connection"). There is also a wonderfully diverse range of musical artists on this album... Cake, Tom Waits, Wilco, BNL, Dan Wilson. If you weren't a fan of any/all of these artists *before* hearing the tasty tunes provided on this album, you may well be before you've finished listening to the last track.

This would be a fun & even useful gift for friends or family who have young children, but I think it's going to be even more fun for those of us who grew up with Sesame Street and The Muppets. Who can resist singing "Mahna Mahna" or "The Hoppity Song" at the top of their lungs? I sure can't!

Better yet, the proceeds from this album go to two great causes; VH1's "Save the Music Foundation" in the U.S. and "The Sarah McLachlan Music Outreach" program in Canada. Being a former Band Geek myself, I know how important music was in shaping my character and my life. Other kids should have that same opportunity. And that alone is reason enough to buy this album IMO.

La La La.... lovely!

One of the best "family" CD's I've found
I work at a daycare, so I am inundated with different kinds of "children's" music day-in and day-out. This CD is the one I reach for on the weekend! My 2-year old loves it, and the babies that I work with at school do too. It is fantastic!

Best yet for rocking out with a toddler!
At our house, we run round and round the living room table with Hippity Hop playing at high volumes. This CD is a blast for both kids and parents. It is musically interesting, full of humor and sincerity, and is just plain fun. It makes us all smile - and we have yet to grow tired of it.

Fun for everyone!
This cd brought memories back to both my husband and I, especially with "Over the Rainbow", and it is an absolute hit with our now year and a half old son. The songs are catchy and fun and great to dance to. My only complaint is the "Snowday" song which I feel is a bit too heavy for young children. My husband likes it though. ... Read more

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The same year American college students and FM radio stations found hipness in the Clash's "Train in Vain," a quartet of students from England's Leeds University calling themselves Gang of Four released their debut album. Politically charged and pumped full of extremist theories and punk rock vehemence (and now out of print since 1997), Entertainment continues to rank among the most critically acclaimed and influential records of the post-punk epoch it helped to define. The record is funkified by stop-start rhythms and sharp vocals that mimic Joe Strummer's sing-to-shout shifts, a sound that has turned up in the music of a quarter-century of bands, from the Minutemen to Fugazi. The original 12-song track list--including the vehement slam on media and politics "I Found That Essence Rare" and the punk passion play "Damaged Goods"--is reinforced with all four songs from the band's 1980 EP Yellow, as well as four others never-before-released, including a live cover of the Velvet Underground's "Sweet Jane." --Scott Holter ... Read more

Reviews (2)

marriage of intelligence, angst, politics, and aesthetics
The roots of Gang of Four can be traced back to 1976, but from opposite ends of the globe. In their native England during that year, The Sex Pistols, The Damned, and The Clash dropped the bomb that was punk whose shockwaves can still be felt to this day through music, literature, art, politics, fashion, etc. In China also in 1976, a renegade faction of communists staged a leadership coup after the death of Mao Zedong, holding out for 10 days and calling themselves the Gang of Four. Back in England a year later, a punk band began as four art students from Leeds appropriated not only the name but also the insistance upon bold ideological stances from those Maoist revolutionaries. After achieving considerable success with their debut Damaged Goods EP on the remarkably prescient Fast Productions (who also signed The Mekons early on as well), Gang of Four landed a deal with EMI which resulted in Entertainment. This album -- like Joy Divisions' Unknown Pleasures and the first three Wire albums -- transformed punk with its ingenious marriage of intelligence, angst, politics, and aesthetics, and has not been improved upon since, despite the best efforts from the current crowd of post-punk revivalists (i.e. The Rapture, Bloc Party, Franz Ferdinand, etc.).

Gang of Four were Andy Gill, Jon King, Dave Allen, and Hugo Burnham; well at least for Entertainment and the two follow up records. Entertainment's politics have been at the center of most of the reviews you'll find praising this record, but those politics wouldn't have been heard had Gang of Four not been a f---ing tight band, with Gill's rapid fire guitar arppeggios, Allen's agitated funk-punk basslines, and Burnham's explosive post-disco rhythms. Every thing that has been written about Gang of Four in the past is true, especially from those kind people at Pitchfork who sneered at the end of their review of Entertainment that "anyone who says it's played out is a douchebag." Truer words have not been spoken.

Waited so long...
Since coming across a list of the best albums of all time on a music website I respect, I have made an attempt to collect as many of the 10's I could (out of some 110+, I have gotten about 40 or so). One of the highest ranking albums, Gang of Four's 1979 debut "Entertainment!", was the one I could never come across in a respectable package. Most of those albums have been remastered, and when I received word that "Entertainment!" would be remastered by the fine folks at Rhino, I knew I would have a keeper.
I am highly pleased with this album. The actual packaging is somewhat flimsy, a small cardboard slip that will likely not last very long. However, the liner notes and especially the music make up for it. It's easy to see where current bands like Franz Ferdinand, Rapture, and Bloc Party looked for some inspiration: jerky funk-punk workouts that never shy away from making the Grand Statement of political intent. The bass is melodic, the drums are primal, the guitar is more of a sonar, and the vocals are alternately sneery and soulful. I have yet to listen to the album more, but my first impressions have been one of quiet awe: this is the real deal. Get your copy today! ... Read more

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Three albums into Tegan & Sara's career, it's still somehow necessary to get a couple of facts about them out of the way before diving into their latest offering. They are, yes, identical twin lesbians, and they do occupy the space--more like a vacuum, really--between the riot-grrl menace of Sleater-Kinney and the un-fun folk of Indigo Girls. That out of the way, So Jealous is the duo's best disc yet, meriting more than the mainstream notice that has so far evaded it. All the components are in place: a beyond synthy, full-throttle band, including John Collins and David Carswell of New Pornographers, and songwriting so honest as to make a person--any person--check to make sure no one has been snooping in her diary ("I won't mistake you for problems with me/I won't let my moods ruin this you'll see," from "I Won't Be Left"). The vibe is early-80s pop-punky (Tegan & Sara's singing can sound like Missing Persons' minus the squeals) spiked with a rock'n'roll edge--if the title track were noisier, it might sound at home on a Yeah Yeah Yeahs disc. Destined for hugeness, if only in indie circles for now, Tegan & Sara provide something crucial for pop princesses to be So Jealous of, and that's genuine talent. --Tammy La Gorce ... Read more

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There's a classic episode of The Little Rascals where one of the gang can't join everybody else on the ballfield because he has to stay home with his younger brother, who has the croup. "I can't come out and play," he whines. "I've got to stay home and grease Wheezer!" Nobody at Geffen Records knows whether this was the inspiration in naming Weezer, but it makes sense. Like many of their peers, the members of the Los Angeles quartet seem to have spent their formative years in front of the TV; when they were a little older, they were just as entranced by college rock. Finally, ala the Rascals, one of the gang said, "Hey, kids, let's put on a show!," and the result is Weezer's uplifting, unpretentious, and extremely endearing debut.

The self-titled Weezer is lean and mean at 10 short, punchy tunes, but nearly every one is powered by a larger-than-life chorus or a simple but effective lyric. "Undone-The Sweater Song" uses an unraveling sweater as a metaphor for a relationship on the rocks; "Buddy Holly" pays heartfelt tribute to the '50s rocker, and "In the Garage" paints a scene of suburban teens jamming while surrounded by posters of Kiss. Producer Ric Ocasek of Cars fame pushes the vocals and rhythm guitars, and this bare-bones approach may earn comparisons to fellow garage-pop band Green Day. But Weezer has more in common with the late, lamented Big Dipper, another group of slacker wiseguys that you just had to love. --Jim DeRogatis ... Read more

Reviews (397)

Weez yourself up!
Overall this was a great album! Weezer was founded on February 14th 1992. In 12 years they have made 4 excellent albums:
Blue Album (this one)
Pinkerton
Green Album
Maladroit
The best one was definetly this one, the blue one simply because it has the best songs and lyrics. Rivers has a great voice which you could also exhibit in the other albums.

MY NAME IS JONAS (10/10) This song was so good, the melody was wonderful.
NO ONE ELSE (9/10) This song is great but it repeats itself a lot.

THE WORLD HAS TURNED AND LEFT ME HERE (8/10) It was too slow for my liking but like I said before every song is great.
BUDDY HOLLY (10/10) You probably heard this one before on the radio, if not its great and quick.
UNDONE THE SWEATER SONG (8/10) It is funny but I didnt like the long intro and the end is creepy.
SURF WAX AMERICA (7/10) This gets boring but it is still great!
SAT IT AINT SO (10/10) This is a great nice beautiful song!
IN THE GARAGE (9/10) I loved it but its pretty sad.

HOLIDAY (8/10) cool song cool tune.
ONLY IN DREAMS (7/10) to slow for my liking and too lon of an intro, beautiful.

Thats all. I listen to this album so much listen to me. If you like it I would buy the other weezer albums but none of them are this good. This is the best album by far. Buy this album.

We're going where the wind is blowin'........
I'm not one of these people who associates this cd with childhood memories, i didn't have a clue who Weezer were a few years back. I bought this last year, and i still listen to it nearly every day because it doesn't get tired after repeated listens, it 'matures with age'. You begin to notice the beauty of the guitar arrangements, or spot a harmony which you fall in love with. The instumentation is fantastic, subtle drumming, laid back bass (especially on Only in dreams) and the great distorted guitars. The huge contrasts between the subtle pluckings in the verses and the whirring power of the chorus in Say it ain't so is what makes the song so fantastic. On an earlier review, i read that someone sang the whole album with his friends, and that is exactly the effect Weezer has on me- these are the sort of songs that are made for singing along to (unluckily for the majority of my neighbours!). The interwoven vocal harmonies are fantastic, the ending of Undone, and Holiday have wonderful multilayered vocals. This is also one of those great albums that exists as a whole, the track order means that you are led through different moods effortlessly, the climatic 'heartbeat' section of Holiday signals the ending, and Only in dreams draws the album to a close as well as Pink Maggit does on Deftones 'White Pony'. After buying this cd i've lent it to a lot of my friends, and they all love it and have become huge Weezer fans, we're counting the days till we can see them live in a few weeks!

The Best Weezer!
I have been a weezer fan from the start(so like when i was 4)! Personally I think Blue Album is the best because it has great guitar parts and lyrics. I think this is a great cd for about anybody(especially if you like alt. and emo). It is great for road trips or just hanging out. If you get this cd you will love it! tracks 1,5,7,8, and the last are the best. The last track starts off quite and kinda quites down and then takes off and really starts rocking! Any weezer cd is good and you will absolutely love it all!

Bomb Diggity
This CD is a classic and I am sure my kids will listen to it when they grow up. Definitely one of my favorite rock albums of all time. Say It Ain't So and Undone are really great songs. Get this CD.

One of the worst albums ever recorded
In a magical era of music history, when grunge had conquered the universe, WEEZER seemed to fall softly and solidly into place as an undeniable staple of 90's rock. The Blue Album revolutionized the mainstream music industry, swerving the idea of 'coolness' from sadly suicidal to humorously honest, somehow making the genre 'fun' again. And from the almost boyish vocals of Rivers Cuomo to the playful basslines and venomously addictive guitar hooks filling the album, it's safe to say that WEEZER has also managed to create one of the most enjoyable albums ever recorded.

The playful tone of the album is swiftly set with that AWESOME opening song, "My Name Is Jonas", which arrests a brilliant guitar melody with those trademark madly-catchy vocals from Rivers. It's a great song that nearly everyone on the planet has heard, I'm sure. Other songs that have infested the radio over the years include my favorite track "Undone-the Sweater Song", which contains one of the GREATEST choruses ever, as well as that pumping king-of-all-geek-anthems, "Buddy Holly". "Say It Ain't So" also adds a great vocal point on the album, which could also be said for "Holiday", a song that sounds like a remnant of the 50's musical era.

Other standout tracks include possible the stupidly greatest love song ever written, "Only In Dreams". With lines like "She's in the air, in between molecules of oxygen and carbon dioxide . . .", who could even dream of disputing it!?! THAT'S WHAT I THOUGHT!!!! "Surf Wax America" and "In the Garage" are also among my favorites, with slow, thoughtful, churning idiocy that make my ears bleed with joy every time I give'em a listen.

Obviously, if you have NOT heard of this album, something is seriously wrong with the alignment of the planets and must be remedied by obtaining and listening as loud and as long as inhumanly possible. This truly is an album of a lifetime, a magical and special plastic tool used to unlock the endless questions of an impossible human existence. If you ever want catchy, fun, and oh-so-true songs of the geeky human soul, than this album is a mandatory requirement.

And as the WEEZ once said, "If the music's too loud, turn it down". ... Read more

Album Description

With over 6 million records sold and 2 Grammy’s under their belts, The Wallflowers have released their fifth album and first with producer Brendan O’Brien (Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen). Rebel, Sweetheart is the welcome re-introduction to a grown up rock & roll band with a renewed sense of purpose. The Wallflowers have created an album that yearns forclarity while reflecting the world’s complexity – these are songs written by a man and performed by a band that’s already lived a little. From the powerful expression of hope on the first single "The Beautiful Side Of Somewhere" to the moodily stunning "We’re Already There", Rebel, Sweetheart is poised to be the most focused and accomplished album of their career. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

This album is amazing....
I've been a Wallflowers fan for a couple of years. I heard some music from their last album... and then I realized that it was the same band that had done "One Headlight" and I was hooked. I started listening to some of their older stuff, and I really liked it. Over the past year, I had kinda lost contact with the band, because they had some inner struggles and I figured like many other bands they would disband so I had stopped checking up on the band over the summer, and then I heard that they were coming to perform at Jubilee City Fest in Montgomery, AL, where I live, and I was surprised to hear that they were still together. Last week I was flipping through a magazine and I came across an article on Jakob and about the new album and I was surprised, because since I had stopped checking up on them, I didn't know they had released a new album. Needless to say, I rushed out the next day and bought the album, and I was not disappointed.

My boyfriend is a huge Bob Dylan fan, and I got him to listen to some of the Wallflowers earlier stuff, and he would say that they were good, but that he preferred Bob Dylan because his music had more "depth" to it. While I have yet to coerce him into listening to their new album, I'm willing to bet that he'll have more to say about this one. Jakob has fully matured now, and it seems like he is no longer afraid to take a leap into the unknown. Every line of this new CD has meaning behind it, reminiscent of some of his father's earlier stuff, but with some rock behind it to back it up. I am definately happy with where this album is going, and if you don't go out and buy this album and absolutely love it, then theres something wrong with you.

Excellent, Excellent, Excellent
Jakob Dylan, no matter how often they may compare him to his rock-legend father Bob, is a very talented rock star in his own right.He is an exceptional rock vocalist, guitarist, and I think most of all, an excellent songwriter. You can not deny him those things because he is one of the BEST songwriters (not just chord progressions, but actual songwriters) out there.

REBEL, SWEETHEART is an excellent album.While the fuss now is over many of the sub-genres of rock and roll resurging with groups like The Killers, Franz Ferdinand, and The Bravery, I think that is important to always remember a group like The Wallflowers. What makes this particular album stronger and more enjoyable than says FRANZ FERDINAND or HOT FUSS is the songwriting.It is so focused and so unique. True, it probably isn't correct to compare a straight ahead rock album to new wave or indie-rock, but songwriting wise, compared to Flowers or Kapranos, Dylan is on a "higher level" so to speak.

One of the positive things about this kind of music, rock, American rock, is that there is a true emphasis on making every word have wait.If you listen to U2's HOW TO DISMANTLE AN ATOMIC BOMB, you also see there is an emphasis and weight on every lyric song because it is so pure.That is the case with THE WALLFLOWERS.Dylan has crafted a masterpiece of which no one can deny. The musicianship of which he articulates is phenomenal.It takes only one listen to fall in love with this great recording that should DEFINITELY be a Grammy Nominee in 2006.

It is hard to pick top picks because this album is so well written, but "Days of Wonder" and "The Beautiful Side of Somewhere" are my two personal favorites.I Love this album and I highly recommend it. 4 1/2 stars!

The Wallflowers hit a grand slam.
Jakob and the Wallflowers have produced a solid, solid album that is equal to or surpasses BRINGING DOWN THE HORSE.It is unfortunate that they don't receive credit where credit is due; they're a great band putting out solid rock records when that genre receives little to no airplay because of Clear Channel, Infinity, and Entercom dominating the airwaves.Luckily, that is starting to change with XM and Sirius.I think it is blowing the corporate executives' minds that people are actually willing to pay to listen to good music.The new "Jack" format on traditional radio is just a cheap imitation of what you'll find on satellite.Once again, REBEL, SWEETHEART is a great album.On the Wallflowers previous albums there were always a couple tracks, with the exception of BDTH, that I found skippable, but not so on this album.There are great melodies throughout, and Rami Jaffee's keyboards return to prominence.Many of the tracks are catchy, but it is an intrinsic catchiness that stems from Jakob's fantasting songwriting, not because the band is seeking airplay hits.The album is eclectic, "From the Bottom of My Heart" is a great, stripped-down, acoustic ballad.And as another reviewer mentioned, "Back to California" isa good rocker.Each time I listen to the album the more I like it.I could care less for Jakob's politics, but hey, he's entitled to his opinion, and that doesn't mean that I can't appreciate his great music.Give this album a try, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

The Best Wallflowers offering yet!
I just purchased this album and I have to say I am impressed. This band has matured so much that they are breathtaking to listen to. I became a huge 'Wallflowers' fan when I heard 'One Headlight' and immediately ran out and purchased 'Bringing Down the Horse'. I don't have their other albums, except 'Red Letter Days' which I thoroughly enjoyed. This album blew me away. I was expecting some of the pop/rock tunes I heard on 'Red Letter Days' and got more than I bargained for. This is the rock band that I remember, all of the songs on this album were so 'musical' and the lyrics...wow. Jakob Dylan's voice is so rich and poignant, and he sings like he means every word. My fav songs on this cd are 'Days of Wonder', 'The Beautiful Side of Somewhere' and 'God Says Nothing Back'. 'God Says Nothing Back' sent chills up and down my spine. Just a great song. I highly recommend 'Rebel, Sweetheart'. It's the best Wallflowers offering to date. Buy this cd if you're a fan or even if you've never heard of this band. It is thoroughly enjoyable!

Dylan's masterpiece
Jakob Dylan's best album. I thought Breach and Red Letter Days were pretty good, but this one is just breath-taking. Dylan's lyrics are touching and powerful, and all the songs just seem like they fit perfectly into this album. There is not a filler on it. The Beautiful Side of Somewhere is the 1st single, and just a great song. Other favorites of mine are The Passenger, Here He Comes, God Says Nothing Back, Nearly Beloved (sounds Beatle-esque to me), All Things New Again. Back to California is a good rocker. Best album of 2005, GO BUY IT and get the Wallflowers back in the top of the charts where they belong!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Considered the breakthrough album that delivered a more palatable version of industrial music to the commercial audience, Pretty Hate Machine left its dingy mark on pop culture. The abrasive "sonarchy" of the album was first churned by despondent club-goers who roiled with the rhythms and aligned with the angst-ridden convictions. Since its release, the album's tempered deviations came to signify an aesthetic reverie for machine-driven martyrdom. Permeated by hissing engines and dissonant strains, the tracks cascade outside channels of modern complacency. Hits like "Head Like a Hole" and "Down in It" are recognized by the acidic beats, piercing riffs, and lyrical hostilities which snare the listener with disparaging rhapsody. Not for the light-headed, Pretty Hate Machine afflicts the inner sanctum and strikes a nerve. --Lucas Hilbert ... Read more

Reviews (279)

Once upon a time, there was a man named Trent Reznor........
That's what I'll be saying to my grandkids in the future, when Nine Inch nails is firmly set as a music phenomenon and Trent Reznor is a legend everywhere you go. This album is the first of the group, and the album that really brought industrial music into the eyes of the world. It would definitely be safe to say that NIN is not only an industrial band, it is THE industrial band. Trent Reznor is a musical genius, and this album proves it. The songs are eerie and electronic, very powerful in a slow, forboding sort of way. The best song on this album is the first, Head Like a Hole. Terrible Lie follows, another masterpiece, and soon your mind is set that Nine Inch nails are no disposable trash. Alot of great, dark bands have come along recently. Marilyn Manson, KoRn, Cradle of Filth, but Trent Reznor will always hold a special place in my heart.

Black As Your Soul
Nine Inch Nails' incredible debut album Pretty Hate Machine is a personal favourite of mine and one of the most consistently good albums I have ever listened to. Each and every track is of a Grade-A standard and the album contains essential NIN tracks such as "Head Like A Hole", "Terrible Lie", "Down In It" and "Sin", but really, they're all essential. The opening track and alternative radio hit "Head Like A Hole" is a classic example of great industrial rock, with it's thrashy guitar and gloomy synthesizers, though it's not really indicative of the rest of the album. In fact, unlike subsequent releases, there is very little guitar at all on this album. Trent Reznor utilizes walls of synthesizers and electronic noise to generate a stark and bleak sound. Overall, the album is more accessable than other Nine Inch Nails albums but still dark and caustic, despite having catchy melodies. Lyrically Trent Reznor tackles such subject matter as betrayal, disillusionment and loss of identity. All the good stuff. Pretty Hate Machine is a marvel, and (dare I say it?) a work of genious. A true classic.

freekin excellent
by far the best nine inch nails album ever. I remember buying this from the local record store on vinyl back in 89. My mind spun watching the blue and pink decals twist on the turn table forming this wierd filament of psychodelic colors; WAY cool!. Despite this being an 80s album, this music would still be considered hot today. This record has so much variety in the techno/ industrial genres let alone Reznors other albums. This one is unique and a must have for all nine inch nail fans.

Yummy
Seems like I get to everything late in the game, but better late than never, eh? I thoroughly enjoyed the entire disc, finding nothing to skip over every time I listened. Favorite tracks were "Down in it" and "Kinda I want to." "Something I Can Never Have" struck a cord. PRETTY HATE MACHINE hit a good two weeks on my "sit-and-spin-in-my-player" ranking. Two weeks of good, solid listening. I found what little profanity there was appropriate and not enough to make me roll my eyes.

this cd never cools off!
Ok you know how when after you finish playing a CD, when you take it out, its warm? This CD has not cooled off since i got it 2 days ago. I probbally listend to it like 50 times in 2 days. I'm obsessed with it, as soon as it finishes playing, i hit play again. Most of the time, im not really listening to it, but it makes great back ground music. It's also awesome if your "actually paying attention" to the CD. I definatly recomend this CD. If you wana get to know nine inch nails, get this. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Take one part Ramones, one part Buzzcocks, and one part Husker Du, and you've got the basic foundation of Green Day, a punky, witty, melodic San Francisco Bay area trio who became overnight stars in 1994 when this album, their third overall release and major label debut, catapulted them to the top of the pop charts. Led by guitarist/vocalist Billie Joe Armstrong and their secret weapon, powerhouse drummer Tre Cool, Green Day put '70s and '80s punk in a compact '90s package with songs like "Longview," "Basket Case," "Pulling Teeth," and the hit semi-ballad, "When I Come Around." One the few modern alternative rock bands with a bona fide sense of humor. --Billy Altman ... Read more

Reviews (376)

A review of the brilliant Dookie (Green Day) by Daniel Bland
The album starts with the wonderful 'Burnout', which has a certain energy about it which makes you want to play it over and over again. 'Having a blast', has an addictive drum beat, and Billie Joe's punky voice adds that special touch. Billie Joe's lyrics are very modest in the 3rd song, 'chump', and towards the end there is a wonderful piece of music, without singing, which I love. 'Longview' has a lovely variety, with the majority of it being slow, and a great heavier chorus. 'Welcome to paradise's'brilliant chord structure possibly makes it the best track on the album. 'Pulling teeth', a slower song, but still, a superb song. Then, 'Basket case' and 'She', two similar songs - slow,fast,slow,fast. Theses songs will leave you speechless, at least until you come to 'Sassafras Roots'. Although, slightly repetitive, the parts which are repeated are excellent. On to 'When I come aroun', maybe their most famous song, maybe my favourite. Again, a slower song, ! but still, it will stick in your mind. Number 11, 'Coming clean'. A song which I found rather boring. After listening to the album a couple of times, you will skip this song and move straight on to 'Emenius sleepus'. Billie Joe, again his voice is brilliant, he's feeling sick and he wants to go home. But he'll have to wait, 2 songs left. 'In the end'. Another great song, with a supreme drum beat near the end. The last song, 'F.O.D.' The first 1 and a half minutes are very slow, and light, and then, an explosion. The music errupts. Something which has to be played at full volume. A bonus track, at the end of 'F.O.D' is 'All by myself'. Funny 6the first time, but something which is not worth waitng for. All in all a great album, and something which should not be missed

"Possibly the most influential album of its time"
In the start of a decade that looked to be filled with dance and rap as the dominating genres of that era, there was a shining glimmer of hope for fan of rock. The now legendary band from Berkeley, Green Day, released quite possibly the most influential album of its time, as it has triggered the start of many other bands in the area (Blink 182, No Use For A Name, etc.). In their release of this cd, they began their journey in the rock world, and in effective fashion:

ANALYSIS OF TRACK LISTING:
1. Burnout: 4.5/5-a fast paced, distorted guitar-blaring anthem that showed how people didn't grow up, but rather just burnout out.... A great start to the album with a great drum part in the bridge

2. Having a Blast: 4/5-possibly one of their most controversial songs (next to Platypus, on nimrod), it is a song about a person who is going to kill everyone in their path.... a very catchy song

3. Chump: 4.5/5-One of the un-appreciated tracks of this cd, Chump is about hating a specific person, though you've never even see them.... the instrumental in this is very good

4. Longview: 4/5-The original and only tribute to masturbation to date (at least to my knowledge).... despite it's widespread appeal, you may grow tired of this song, due to its excessive air time on the radio.... the bass part in this song is quite good as well

5. Welcome to Paradise: 4.5/5-A re-release track from their Lookout! Records release, kerplunk!, this track is about a young man who ventures away from home and eventually finds himself in paradise.... one of the best bass solo's i have ever heard

6. Pulling Teeth: 3.5/5-A slower-paced song, highlighting a true event of being busted up by the one you love (Mike Dirnt had both of his elbows broken while having a pillow fight with his wife Anastacia).... good, but a little bit too slow for my taste

7. Basket Case: 5/5-Quite possibly one of the best songs of all time, this song focuses on the mental instability of a single person and his ventures to find sanity.... A MUST LISTEN!!

8. She: 4.5/5-another great song, following up Basket Case.... it is mainly a reflective song giving advice to a girl that the person loves.... to stop yelling at them before they go insane..... Dirnt shows his talent with another great bass intro

9. Sassafras Roots: 4/5-a repetitive song that ventures the question "May I waste your time too....?" the lyrics will catch on, and don't be surprised if you end up singing it after hearing it a few times

10. When I Come Around: 4/5-a solid song, possibly their most well-known song on this album.... it is about getting somewhere that you need to be, and the one that matters knowing where to find you.... has a good guitar solo, and a solid bass and drum line

11. Coming Clean: 4.5/5-a better song than When I Come Around, it is a great increase of the pace that was held back by the previous track.... it is mainly about a person "coming clean" about being of an alternate sexual orientation.... a fun, quick and to the point song

12. Emenius Sleepus: 4.5/5-A continuation from the previous song, Billie Joe now sings how he's sick and wants to go home, since he doesn't know his friend at all anymore.... a VERY good song, as it keeps the pace of the album up as it comes begins to come to a close.....

13. In The End: 4/5-the second to last song, it provides a clear message: not liking what you see in the future and hoping that you're not dead when somethin important comes around.... it has a solid bridge yet again, and brings us into the final "official" track of the disc......

14. F.O.D. 4.5/5-the final track of the CD, it is a mellow beginning, but then a loud and very clear anthem.... it mainly just says how the person wants everyone to F.O.D., which if you listen to the song, you will figure out what it means.....

Hidden Track: All By Myself 3.5/5-a very funny track that the guys recorded while they were high in one of their friends basements.... funny, but it won't be worth the wait for much more than two times

really cool; good for any fan
Really awsome for any Green Day fan, but if you're not, step away. I, being a HUGE Green Day fan, think that you'll LOVE most of these songs, I recomend "Pulling Teeth","Basket Case", "Longveiw" and "Welcome to Paradise". The only song on this CD I don't LOVE is "Coming Clean", not really interesting. All really strict parents who hate cuss words as small as "crap", this is a bad CD for your kids.

The one that started it all...
the downfall of real/street punk, that is. This is when Green Day "sold out", but they were never realy punk, they and their friends at clubs had a skewed version of what punk is. They think it is about spreading peace or some sissy stuff like that, and it is not, Anarchy is the opposite of peace, it is unadulterated freedom, real, true, freedom to do whatever you want. And punk music should be noisey and aggressive. This is one of those bands(the leader, in fact) that made people think this poppy crap is punk, and almost completely killed real punk rock. If it wasn't for bands like the Casualties, punk would truely be dead, but it isn't dead, and won't die. Punk is back and it's here to stay! I HATE GREEN DAY, BUT AT LEAST THAT SISSY SONG ISN'T ON THIS!

Not Bad
Fun lightweight pop-punk. Nothing terribly interesting or in any way groundbreaking, but not horrible either. I'd burn a copy, no way would I pay for it. To call these guys punk is ridiculous. They're very mainstream in terms of attitude and desire for acceptance. If these guys had showed up at a Black Flag concert back in the day they would have had their arms and legs ripped off and thrown in a pile. This is safe enough for your 13 year old daughter and makes for a pleasant listen when driving your kids to and from soccer practice. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Nirvana may have been the biggest thing in the music world in the early '90s, but the trio maintained an uncommon devotion to core fans who knew them when they were still sleeping in a van. Fending off the adoration of punk-rock dabblers in the media and their audience while simultaneously welcoming stalwart underground-music supporters, Kurt Cobain did things on his own terms--until it all came crashing down. A decade after Cobain's 1994 suicide and the band's demise, With the Lights Out remains true to the ethos that defined the band and the alt-rock revolution that rose and fell with them.

Eschewing the standard hits-sprinkled-with-rarities mix, this lovingly compiled three-CD, one-DVD collection is made up almost entirely of previously unreleased selections. The handful of previously heard tracks are obscurities along the lines of the group's cover of "Here She Comes Now," recorded for a 1990 indie-rock tribute to the Velvet Underground. But it's not the B-sides and compilation oddities that define this idiosyncratic set; rather, its spirit is captured in the bedroom demos, radio performances, and sloppy amateur video recordings that catch Cobain and cohorts developing from just another punk- and metal-inspired bunch of grunge rockers pounding away in the bass player's mom's living room into a band that defined an era. --Steven Stolder ... Read more

Amazon.com

For all his tattoos and bulked-up frat-boy persona, singer Bradley Nowell had real soul, which made his fatal heroin overdose even more tragic. There's more to this Long Beach, California, trio's debut, released shortly after Nowell's death in 1996, than white suburban punks imitating Jamaican ska music. The band comes up with great songs, notably the catchy MTV hit "What I Got"; spooky dub-reggae undertones, produced by the Butthole Surfers' Paul Leary, to go with the snappy horns; and surprisingly progressive lyrics that attack sexism and other social ills, especially on "Wrong Way." Like the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Fishbone, obvious forebears, Sublime become slightly tiresome after 17 songs, but the band is great in short doses. --Steve Knopper ... Read more

Reviews (366)

ONE OF THE GREATEST CDs OF ALL TIME
If you haven't heard Sublime before, I suggest buying this CD. It's full of ska, reggae, punk, rap, and hip-hop. All of the songs are great, energetic, and they all sound different. This is how I would rate each song:
(1)Garden Grove:A++
(2)What I Got:A+
(3)Wrong Way:A+
(4)Same In The End:A+
(5)April 26, 1992:A+
(6)Santeria:A+
(7)Seed:A+
(8)Jailhouse:A
(9)Pawn Shop:A
(10)Paddle Out:A
(11)Balled Of Johny Butt:A
(12)Burritos:A
(13)Under My Voodoo:A
(14)Get Ready:A
(15)Caress Me Down:A+
(16)What I Got(reprise):A
(17)Doin' Time:A+

This is the last CD that Sublime made before Brad passed away, and it's one of their best. It's to bad he went away at the height of their success, but he new some day he would "lose the war".-Pool Shark

R.I.P. Brad Nowell

RADIO HIITS, WHO CARES, STILL A GREAT CD!!
I don't get why some people will give a cd a lower rating cause it gets radio play. You shouldn't like or dis-like a cd cause some of its songs on the radio. Anyway i'm a huge Sublime and own all there cd's (execpt stand by your van) I think this cd doesn't get enough credit just because excellent songs like what i got, wrong way, santeria and doin time are played on the radio. It also holds some other gems like Garden Grove, April 29, 1992 (Miami) which has a great story line, Same in the end, Burritos, Get Ready and Caress Me Down. The best song has to be what i got (reprise) when you listen to it just makes u feel good. In my oppion this is Sublimes second best album behind 40 oz to freedom, but it is still great.......... mad love out to lou dog and RIP BRAD..........PEACE!!!!!!!!

Bradley Nowell sounds even better now that he's Dead.
"Sublime" is one of my favorite albums of all time and it is by far the best Sublime record. Listening to "Sublime" is like the equivelant to watching an episode of Cops. There are songs about prostitutes, pawn shops, weed, race riots, and guns. All good fun!
Some highlights are:
"Garden Grove"- I like when Bradley goes through the list of reasons why his soul is unsound.
"Same in the End"- Totally rocks.
"Seed"- Totally rocks too.
"Burritos"- Should have been another single.

You'll love this
No matter what type of music you listen to,you WILL like this.Trust me.This is one of the only CD's I can listen to over and over and not get tired of.Some of the best tracks would have to be "What I got","Seed","Santeria",and "Wrong Way" are the best tracks on the cd.There's a serious point in all the songs,but the it's so inresting and catchy,you don't even notice.You'll love it so just buy it.

no band can compare
Sublime is just one of those bands that can't be compared to or imitated by anyone. Brad had a great gift with not only lyrics but amazing vocals. This CD especially shows sublime had true musical talent and wasn't imitating anyone like most rock bands are today. Every song on here is good and each song shows how many different kinds of music sublime could combine into one CD, rock/rap/punk/reggae/ska. This cd and 40 oz to freedom are by far the best 2 sublime cd's out there. RIP brad and your music lives on. ... Read more

Amazon.com

If rock's most successful and memorable acts have usually succeeded by wrapping their own distillation of music history and personal tastes in whatever fashionable trappings are currently gripping the culture, it's hardly surprising that the Cars remain one of the most enduring symbols of the punk/new wave era. This 20-track anthology distills that argument perfectly. Ric Ocasek's songs embody a solid '60s sense of pop craftsmanship informed by a trend-conscious stylistic sheen and a cynical, slippery emotional detachment that's often betrayed by his own distinctly weary brand of romanticism, from the anxious pop of "Just What I Needed" and "You're All I've Got Tonight" to the melancholy-on-ice musings of "Drive" and "Tonight She Comes." Sixteen of the 20 cuts here were chart singles, and radio staples like "Bye Bye Love" and "Dangerous Type" might as well have been. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Excellent compilation, with one minor flaw
[My rating for this is four and a half stars, not just four]P>If you listen to a classic rock station on a regular basis, then there is no doubt that you hear The Cars frequently. This band combined new wave and classic rock, and did it with surprisingly good results. Many of the tracks (Just What I Needed, for example) are a perfect fusion of the two styles, while some tracks go for one or the others (Good Times Roll is more of a classic rocker, while Bye Bye Love is more on the new wave side.) Like another review specified, there were two Cars compilations out before this. So, why should you get this one instead? Read on and find out.

First of all, you've got just about every one of the band's big hits (Just What I Needed, My Best Friend's Girl, Good Times Roll, You're All I've Got Tonight, Bye Bye Love, Moving In Stereo, Let's Go, Shake It Up, and I'm Not The One.) You've even got many lesser-known hits that shouldn't fail to please. Also, this compilation has nearly DOUBLE the songs the first hits album did. You've got twenty awesome songs here, on one CD. The fact that it's a single-disc compilation means it's an affordable one. Remember how in my review title I said the compilation had only one flaw? That one flaw is the fact that the compilation is lacking Candy-O, one of the band's biggest hits. Without it being here, this compilation should've been called "Almost Complete Greatest Hits."

Final verdict? If you're a casual fan of the Cars and you don't want to shell out the extra cash for the two-disc hits compilation, get this one. Of all of their hits compilations, this one is the best value by far.

Not Really Necessary, But Still Good
As with most of today's bands, record companies have a knack for releasing "greatest hits" or "best of" collections ad nauseum to entice us consumers to give up our hard earned bucks. This CD is a perfect example. Although this collection contains tracks not originally included in "The Cars Greatest Hits", there's very little here that wasn't already available in the excellent Anthology set, "Just What I Needed", that Rhino Records released several years ago.

This collection does the original "Greatest Hits" album one better in that it includes many favorite album tracks that get considerable "deep cut" airplay on classic rock stations, but it really isn't superior to the anthology. As is usually the case with "greatest hits" albums, fans will lament the exclusion of certain songs or the inclusion of certain others. Personally, I could have done without "Tonight She Comes" and "You Are the Girl", both of which I consider inferior songs and which were not included in the original "Greatest Hits". Nevertheless, they were minor hits for the band and probably should be included in this collection if for no other reason than to satisfy completists.

Unless you're a rabid fan or a completist, there's no reason to buy "The Complete Greatest Hits" if you already own the anthology. If you don't and are trying to decide which one to purchase, I'd still go with the anthology because it comprises overall a much more interesting collection of songs, has rare alternate versions of a few tracks, and a very thorough and informative booklet on the band's history and career.

Is this a best-of?... or greatest hits?
This is certainly a killer collection of songs, and I envy anyone who is much younger and not familiar with the band, for they are in for a quirk-rock treat!
But, was 'All Mixed Up' never released as a single?
It's just a shame it's not on here, I think it's the best song in their catalog... the Red House Painters re-make really put into perspective what a great tune it is

Just what I needed
I've written a lot of Amazon reviews - mostly movies, but a few CD's and books - and I thought today I would praise The Cars.

I *was" gonna say I already have the Greatest Hits which could easily have been a double album by sticking the Candy-O album (have it) on it and adding a few scattered goodies from other albums I recall, such as "Bye Bye Love", "Moving In Stereo", "You're All I've Got Tonight" and "Hello Again".

I'm not sure how you can leave "Heartbeat City" and "Candy-O" off a greatest hits, but I suppose you have to draw the line somewhere. I don't know "Why Can't I Have You" and "You Are The Girl" by name, so at least I have a couple new experiences ahead. I hope they are as good as the 2 "missing" songs.

And so here I am, buying a second GH album. But I'm not complaining at all - I can choose which to listen to based on the songs they don't have in common.

THIS IS A FIRST-----IN HISTORY !!!!
This is truely the first "REAL"-hits album ever done the right way. I wish that every band and record company could do a job great, like this album. THIS IS FIRST CLASS----done by pro's. SO LISTEN-UP MUSIC COMPANY's and learn from this album how a real "GREATEST HITS" album should be done. YOU LOSERS ! We,the music fans, are sick of your CRAPPY SO CALLED "HITS ALBUMS". ... Read more

Amazon.com

While English pop monarchs Duran Duran have remained active for two decades, it's clear that the indomitable ensemble was at its peak during those mercurial '80s. This greatest-hits collection documents the band's ambitious beginnings as a funky glam-rock outfit and follows its gradual transformation into a high-tech pop band with loads of commercial appeal. Featuring now-classic tunes like "Girls on Film," "Rio," and "Planet Earth" as well as more recent songs like "Ordinary World," Greatest focuses on Duran Duran's unending string of hit singles. Although the young quintet that performs "Hungry Like the Wolf" and "A View to a Kill" has little in common with the posh, aging trio featured on 1997's "Electric Barbarella," vocalist Simon Le Bon provides some impressive continuity to these proceedings. --Mitch Myers ... Read more

Reviews (129)

Great set of Duran Duran tunes
This Greatest Hits compilation is an excellent introduction to Duran Duran, one of the top groups of the 80's new wave. All of their best known songs are here, with a few ommissions that hard core fans will lament (but they have all the studio albums anyways, so what does it matter?) If you're only going to get one Duran Duran album this would have to be it.

The top tracks are the MTV smashes "Hungry Like the Wolf" and "Girls on Film", the slow and beautiful "Ordinary World", my personal favorites "The Reflex" and "Electric Barbarella", one of the top Bond movie themes "A View to a Kill", the butchered (i.e. edited) yet still wonderful Rio, and "Union of the Snake". For volume of music, this CD is a great value running almost 80 minutes and containing 19 songs. The 5 star rating narrowly being missed due to the large number of edited tracks. (Rio especially.....it just didn't need to be done)

This is a great set covering most of the band's recording career. Well over an hour of great tunes will make it a pleasure for even casual fans of 80s synth-pop, and shows why Duran Duran is one of the most enduring bands from that era.

The Greatest Band
Duran Duran is one of the biggest bands of the 80's and have been having hits for more than 2 decades and are still making good songs. I saw them in concert in 99 and they were excellent even without taylor. Review of songs-
1.is there somthing i should know? 3.8 stars
2.the reflex-4.5 stars/catchy pop song
3.a view to a kill-4.7 stars
4.ordinary world-5 out of 5 stars-good ballad
5.save a prayer- 4.7 stars/haunting song
6.Rio- 5 out of 5 stars/classic
7.hungry like the wolf-5 out of 5 stars
8.girls on film- 4 stars
9.planet earth- 5 out 5 stars
10.union of the snake-3.8 stars
11.new moon on monday- 4.