Reviews (34)

a huge step for this talented christian band
first of all, these guys do admit to being a christian band. that makes them even cooler in my book. underoath has totally switched up the lineup on this album bet i have to say it's for the better. this is a huge step up from their last album. their's actually melodic parts and actual choruses in this album. their last one had hardly any melodic singing parts at all, just annoying and constant ear shattering screaming from ex member, Dallas. Good riddance! the guitar riffage is insane and the singing, as i mentioned is a whole lot better. the only criticism is that they almost lost all of the sick double bass in their songs. but their new sound is kickin A and i'm lovin it. if you like a static lullaby, dead poetic, or hardcore/screamo you'll enjoy this, i promise. check out "reinventing your exit" It's an unbelievable song.

Great Cd! Hopefully this site won"t end up like the forum!
Yes, it's different. Yes, it's a great album. I myself love dallas,but Spancer fits the glove. I'm sure some person will give this cd a bad review based on the fact dallas isn't in the band. The songs sound a little similiar, but don't always follow the same formula or pattern such as FATA'S (Too Bad Your Beautiful. no offense to from autumn to ashes) I think this cd has a good blend of screaming and singing, and I can't forget the keyboards. There really isn't any bad things to say about this cd except that it's only 35 minutes long. Lyrics are well written. UO has created a special sound that makes them unique and very addictive to listen to. It's hard to pick one song that stands out over the rest. This cd has lived up to it's harsh criticisms and I believe Underoath deserves some recognition for putting out another 5 star album. long live underoath. Great show at the factory

awesome...awesome to the max!!!!!
This is one of the greatest cd's i've ever heard. Yes there style did change, but that does not mean they went emo. Besides (changing of times) wasn't even that hard. If you really listen to this cd, you will see how much thought and hardwork was put into it. For those who havent heard the first three cds, you should go check them out. To me this is the best cd yet, and dallas wasnt all that great. This cd should get a 10/10 and two thumbs up. Underoath is my god and all you kids need to bow to them. Also, if you think their cd is good, you should check them live!!! Awesome to the max.

YUCK!!
This cd is no good!! I picked up a comp cd w/them on expecting to hear like the best stuff out there since sliced bread was introduced and I was disappointed w/what I heard. Theres to much of a singing/screaming mix. Why can't you just pick one? If you can't pick either one then just touring, making music and really decide if this band is what we want it to be. So my advice is don't get this cd! Its not worth your money unless you have ur friend burn this crap. NOT worth your money wait for the remixed or remastered version and thats proly not gonna be for a while. If you WANT TURE METAL CHECK OUT ZAO OR AS I LAY DIEING B/C THOSE GUYS KNOW HOW TO DO METAL!!

Selling Out Is So Scene
Theres really not much to say if you're a metal fan or a fan of the OLD underoath. You already know if you've heard this cd that they have totally SOLD OUT. This cd is a carbon copy of Taking Back Sunday or A Static Lullaby or any other of those screamo bands. Underoath used to be a very talented metal band but now are a mere scene band who conformed to the popular radio bands to get more money and more playing time. There is not one song on this cd i enjoyed. Underoath started moving mainstream with "The Changing Of Times" and has finally landed there with this piece of *%#! ... Read more

Reviews (361)

This is an Awesome Record!
This Left Feels Right is one of the most entertaining albums one could get one's hands on. Released in November of 2003, this album is currently one of the highest selling compilation albums.
While most best-of albums have at least one track that one will skip, This Left Feels Right has not one single song that is even half bad, and all were big radio hits. It starts off with the half acoustic masterpiece "Wanted: Dead or Alive," and then the power ballad "Livin' on a Prayer" rocks on with a talk box. "Bad Medicine" follows and "it's what I need," to quote the song. Powerful drums and a voice box start off the next track "It's My Life" from Bon Jovi's 2000 album Crush. Another loud song, "Lay Your Hands on Me," comes next. The catchy big hit "You Give Love a Bad Name" from the #1 hit album Slippery When Wet keeps up the rockin' pace.
"Bed of Roses" slows it down a bit, but "Everyday" from the 2002 album speeds it back up. "Born to Be My Baby," a classic from New Jersey is the last hard rocker. "Keep the Faith" and "I'll Be There For You" follow. The heart-melting song "Always" ends the album and leaves one feeling they've never made a better purchase. I highly recommend This Left Feels Right: Hit With a Twist to any music fan!

out of the blue
This Ablum was Definatly something in the making for the band . they always try to do something out of the blue . and this was it . we have heard Prayer 94' , and the band was even slated to start the Unplugged series on Mtv . this is what they know . it is by far one of the best ablums in my book by the band . they arent a normal band they are jersey boys , We have just seen them win the Award Of Merit for selling over 100 million ablums .....So ,.....:) they are the best ...

My ears are bleeding!
If there were a selection for "0" stars, I would definitely have rated it with that. This is absolutely the WORST rendition of any of these songs, ever. As a Bon Jovi fan for years, I am completely appalled by this fatal monstrosity they call "Greatest Hits With a Twist". The vocals on this album can easily be likened to those of a drunken hobo. Truly tragic, and highly NOT recommended.

Great twist on great hits!
This is a great change to the classic songs. I love the new sounds and the easy going style. two or three of the songs I'm not all that crazy about and prefer the original. But I think if you like "Prayer '94" from the Crossroads cd, you'll like this one. A good change.

Who approved this record????
Bon Jovi released a new album on Tuesday. It's called "This Left Feels Right". For those of you not in the know, it is made up of some of their older songs, pretty much hits, but re-made. mostly acoustic and stripped down and built back up.

Now, there is precident for this. The Cure did "Mixed Up" - taking some of their songs and remixing them, Euro-Club style. Bush did it with Deconstruction, some guy came in and made their bigger songs techno. Some bands just opt to do something different, for artistic liberties. Look at the new Aerosmith record that has been in the works - supposed to be a straight blues record. And then some bands are just looking to change their sound. Now, I can appreciate all of these things. And even if they don't work, the band tried, that is what art is about. Take all of this from the guy who grew up wearing out his copy of Hysteria, but felt that Slang was the best album Def Leppard ever wrote... Also realize that I appreciate new takes on old material. Acoustic guitars playing Pour Some Sugar on Me worked well.

trainwreck. at some point, someone thought it was a good idea. I am amazed it saw record stores shelves. i am having trouble finding redeeming qualities here. I read the reviews on amazon before listening, but didn't want to believe. how could it be that bad....

1. dead or alive. i heard that this was the one track people liked. i wonder what cd they were listening to, because it couldn't have been this one. has this really annoying bass-like thump to it that WON"T STOP! and 2 or 3 times it has a glimpse of full on rock - for about a bar's worth of music, then cuts out as abruptly as it came in. some of the words get changed, which i guess is ok, he's been singing the same thing since 1986, he's allowed to, sounds like a live improv wording. The thing i liked best about this song was when the cd player said Track 2.

2. prayer, as it is known since that ballad version they did on the crossroads best of disc. they continue in that vein. they show a little promise, with a female singer who sounds indian and maybe i heard a sitar in there. but instead of exploring that field, they drop the ball. what comes out is pitiful. no, i take that back, they get none of my pity, for what comes later.

3. bad medicine. again, huge potential. could have followed what they were starting, and made it into a mississippi delta-blues, soul searching on the dusky porch with friends. Nope. they choose to suck instead. jon is singing like he is trying to be something, instead of actually being it. it is like he is copying something, and gives you a wink that breaks the illusion. repeatedly.

4. its my life. mostly piano and vocal, little guitar i think. "like frankie said i did it my way"... interesting, cause he is starting to sound like frank sinatra. but that isn't a compliment right now. and while i don't like sinatra, he doesn't have any amount of soul behind his voice, really. again, the promise was that it could have been different and personal. like the guy went to an open mic or something. different phrasings. but no luck. speaking of, i recently got the new Howie Day album, with the bonus DVD, where he walks around his hometown and pops into an open mic. if you follow the college music media at all, you know this guy is about to take over the world. Buy "Stop all the World Now" instead of this disc.

5. Lay Your Hands on Me. This reminds me of my friend Chris' other comment - this disc highlights the lyrics. bad thing to do, boys, for the most part. This song has almost a cool shuffle to it that i could see soul asylum doing well. but if dave pirner sang this chorus, it would be seen as really opening up himself and a bold sharing of sexuality. (...)

6. Bed of roses. on the other hand, this is a well written, personal lyric. this song you CAN take seriously. just not this version. the original was mostly piano written, and this keeps that. and again, could be a different performance, just a guy playing his song that he has performed countless nights, little different vibe, very comfortable. an outtake from practice. but then the drums come in and it is very jarring. but then once you adjust, it is a cool vibe. but then someone forgot to tell jon he was supposed to be singing with different phrasing. he keeps slipping into the arena rock original version of the vocal line, which is totally not fitting.

BTW, the first impression i had of this disk was the back cover. they are sitting near some bushes, in the grass. ok, so jon always looks great, everyone else in the industry hates him for it. tico torres (drummer) and david bryan (keys) have updated their look a little, lost a little weight, everything's fine. richie sambora...heather locklear lets him leave the house like that? he's been delving in her Caboodle kit too much i think. only he doesn't know how to wear make-up as well. come on man! your wife is gorgeous, and stuck with...you? he looks like a girl with a face lift. and where is hugh mcdonnald? ok, so alec john such was the original bassist. but this guy apparantly grew up with the band, to some degree. why do they keep cutting him out of every single photo and basicly getting demoted to "other musicians". he's been on board since alec left, about 8 years ago or so. why cut him out of the club????? ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Wow...
This album is wonderful in so many different reasons, but I think what really sets Heartless Bastards apart from everyone else is Erika Wennerstrom's incredible voice. It is powerful and loud, yet not annoyinly so, deep, melodic, wailing, raw, and unlike anything I have ever heard. Not only is the singing wonderful, drums and guitar are also played superbly, producing a sound somewhat akin to the White Stripes.

I don't think that there is one weak song in the whole 43 minutes of music, but my personal favorites are Runnin, a powerful 5 minute ballad, Pass and Fail (irresistibly catchy and energetic) and Swamp Song.

Don't let yourself miss out on listening to this superb album and hearing the voice of the decade. If mainstream rock these days is pollution, Heartless Bastards are a breath of fresh air.

Unexpectedly knocked off my feet!
It's been years since I've been caught by surprise by the brilliance of music, but Heartless Bastards did just that.I knew I had to have the CD Mid-way through the first song "Gray".The band's name was enough to intrigue me into giving it a listen at the local record store, but they are so much more than a cool band name.

If their is any justice in this world, Erika Wennerstrom will be known as one of the great voices in Rock of all time.She, like Janis Joplin, was put on this world to wail like none before her, and her band mates generate a power garage sound rivaling the power of Cream, but closer to the White Stripes.

Wennerstrom's voice and lyrics are what sets these tracks on fire.I'm excited to listen to this album again tommorow, and even more excited at the possiblility of seeing these guys play.

The album is solid from start to finish, the songs are not repetitive clones of each other and there is no weak link to the album.The song "Gray" will not leave my head, but don't cheat yourself and only focus on it's 3 minutes of brilliance, buy the whole album and appreciate it.In a world of music dominated sucky FM Radio Rock their is hope....Heartless Bastards just might save us all.

Great Band - Great Album - But Better Live
Saw the Heartless Bastards opening for Drive-By Truckers in St. Louis, April 1, 2005.Outstanding!!!I was an instant fan before the first song had ended.So often you hear reviewers tout a band as the future of Rock n Roll, only to never hear from the band again.... so instead I will say The Heartless Bastards are what the future of Rock n Roll should be, and if they aren't it's the world's loss, I'm just glad I stumbled into them.

Their studio sound is quite diferent than their live sound, but in either case the songs are solid.Off the album, you get to enjoy the lyrics, but live you get the raw-edged, bleeding intensity, they take on more of a garage rock flavour (intended as a complement)

Don't miss them live, don't miss this disc.

Haunting and Amazing
I caught this band at a Split Lip Rayfield show as well and they were absolutely amazing.Erika's voice is incredible and the songs are written very well; bluesy and haunting. I really hope to see more of this band soon.

Erika Wennerstrom will be bigger than Elvis!
Allright! Erika Wennerstrom's voice is a national treasure! Her phrasing is amazing, the tone of her voice is haunting, you need to hear her!Beautiful! ... Read more

Amazon.com

No Doubt's 1995 release, Tragic Kingdom, brought Southern California's ska scene to a national stage while elevating the band to star status. An irresistible mix of reggae, punk, and power pop, Tragic Kingdom scored several hits, among them "Spiderwebs," "Just a Girl," and "Don't Speak." Singer Gwen Stefani's looks made the group MTV shoo-ins, but her soaring voice is the real star, as evidenced by such songs as "Happy Now?"--a classic you'll-regret-you-dumped-me anthem that recalls Blondie--and the bouncy "Sunday Morning." Despite recurring themes of pain and regret, Tragic Kingdom manages to somehow feel sunny throughout. --Courtney Kemp ... Read more

Reviews (238)

At the top of the Kingdom!!!
This is a killer CD from No Doubt- topping Return of Saturn, in my opinion- and I've yet to listen to all of Rock Steady, so, currently, this is my favorite No Doubt CD.
The songs on here are pure ska, funk, reggae, pop, dance mixes that are outstandingly No Doubt. When speaking of No Doubt, I would give someone the CD and then say, "Here. Listen. Learn."
The guys are excellent musicians, and Gwen is a truly talented singer. The guys admire her looks, we girls admire her voice. It's a win-win situation with her.
Some of the best tracks on the album include "Just a Girl" which is oustandingly Female. It's quite the song- as is "Spiderwebs", a really good tune to listen to. However, the best song (in my opinion) has to be "Don't Speak", a tragic breakup story. You can see the lyricist agonizing over what to pen next...up late at night with their head in their hands, thinking over and over again: "Don't Speak/I know what you're thinking......don't tell me cuz it hurts....."
All in all, a truly great effort from No Doubt- really really good!

The album that put No Doubt on the map
Released all the way back in 1995, this album went on to sell over 20 million copies worldwide (over 15 million in the US alone). This CD includes the hits Just a Girl, Spiderwebs, Don't Speak, Excuse Me Mr., and Sunday Morning.

The album opens with 1. Spiderwebs (5/5) This song is pretty much instantly catchy, and if your a person who likes to bang your head around, the chorus is perfect for that. 2. Excuse Me Mr. (4/5) This song is a pretty hardcore, in-your-face kinda song. It's probably the worst of their single releases from this album, but it's still really good. 3. Just a Girl (5/5) Now this is THE song that put No Doubt on the map. It's a girl anthem, but unlike alot of them, it isn't a man hating one! It opens with that famous, catchy guitar riff, and the song just goes from there. 4. Happy Now (4/5) I think it's pretty obvious that this song is about Gwen and Tony's break-up, but, it's not a bad song. It's pretty catchy to. 5. Different People (3/5). Another catchy song, about people being, well... different... It seems like a bit of a filler, but it's still an okay song. 6. Hey You (4/5) Lol, the chorus is kinda weird ("Your just like my Ken and Barbie doll"), but weird in a good way. The song is catchy, and I love the way they use the Sitar. 7. The Climb (4/5) Definitely the longest song on the album, topping the 6 minute mark. The only thing that keeps this song from reaching 5 stars, is the fact it seems to drag. Other than that, it's a great song.

8. Sixteen (5/5) One of my favorite songs not to be released from this album. It's really catchy, and has a great chorus. Great song. 9. Sunday Morning (5/5) I think this is one of No Doubt's most underrated songs. The big long drum roll at the beginning is great. Everything about this song is great. And, it's so damn catchy. 10. Don't Speak (5/5) My favorite song off of this album, and maybe my favorite No Doubt song ever. I mean, who hasn't heard this song. It's one of the most beautiful break-up ballads of all time. This song shot straight to #1, and became No Doubt's biggest single ever. Gwen sounds so heartbroken in this song, it gives me chills. Believe me, if you listen to this song when your sad, you might just cry. 11. You Can Do It (3/5) Another song that seems like a filler, and is probably the worst song off of the album. It's not a terrible song mind you, and is pretty catchy. 12. World Go 'Round (5/5) This is my other favorite song not to be released off of this album. Everything sounds great on this song, and it's so catchy. 14. End It on This (4/5) This is pretty good song. Another song that is most likely about Gwen and Tony's break-up. It seems to drag a bit at the end though. And finally, 15. Tragic Kingdom (4/5) I think this song is the perfect way to end the album. It's a good song, but it can be kind of confusing. It drags a bit at the end to.

All in all, this album is great. I recommend if you're looking to become a fan of No Doubt's music, you start with this album. But, if you only like a few of their songs, I'd recommend buying The Singles 1992-2003.

Not So Tragic
Before No Doubt released Tragic Kingdom they weren't well known. They actually just released this so they could get their songs out, then they would go on with their lives. Luckily their first single "Just A Girl" hit well and they didn't have to do that. Tragic Kingdom in my eyes is No Doubt's best work, filled with all good songs. I don't there are many cd's where I happen to enjoy all hits, but this is definitely one of them.

The cd starts of with "Spider Webs" which is an ingenious song. One of my favorite songs in No Doubt history is "Excuse Me Mr." which is just an awesome song. Next is "Just A Girl" which was their first single and possibly the "star" of the cd. Another one of my favorite songs from no doubt is "Different People" which is just so awesome. Then later comes their other hit from the cd, "Don't Speak" which is still getting radio play today. "You Can Do it" is also a fun song, though it kinda sounds like something the Spice Girls would sing. Then comes my favorite song on the whole cd..."Tragic Kingdom". It's so fun, heavy, deep, imaginative, and basically has a nice flow.

The whole cd is just loads of fun and I would suggest it to anyone who has only heard their new stuff.

I LOVE THEM! NO DOUBT ABOUT IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I LOVE NO DOUBT AND THE CRANBERRIES!
GWEN RULES!
I NEVER REALLY LIKED THIS KIND OF MUSIC UNTIL THEM!
THEY ARE DOPE!!!!!!!
5 STAR STUFF~! *****

This Is Pretty Good, But Tracks At the End Drag It Down
I like this album, even thoguh it's really old (almost 10 years)

1. Spiderwebs- Really good way to start the album, really energetic. 9/10
2. Excuse Me Mr. Not as good as previous song, but still pretty good. 8/10
3. Just A Girl- First single, and I can understand why! It's so good! 10/10
4. Happy Now- Not too good, but stil ok! 7/10
5. Different People- Favorite song! It's not even as fast as the others, it's jsut really good. 10/10
6.Hey You- Um, this song is very interesting. 8/10
7. The Climb- I think this was too long but it's stilkl a decent song. 6/10
8.Sixteen-The guitar is so cool! 10/10
9.Sunday Morning- It starts out really weird but it's still a great song! 8/10
10.Don't Speak- The verses are good, the chorus is awful. 5/10
11.You Can Do It- This song is ridiculous, sorry No Doubt. 3/10
12.World Go Round-This album's second half is proving to be bad. 3/10
13.End It On This- Way better then the 3 songs before. 7/10
14. Tragic Kingdom- YAY! Perfect! 10/10 ... Read more

Reviews (302)

Sometimes Change is Good.
Dashboard's forth cd is by far their most happiest, optimistic and least whiniest yet. Like the first single off A Mark, A Mission, A Brand, A Scar, "Hands Down" (Which was first released in a acoustic version a few years ago on the four-song EP "So Impossible") most of the songs are uplifting and thought-provoaking in a suttle way unlike their previous work that was deep in a more somber attitude.
Ratings 1-10 Stars:
1. Hands Down: *11 Stars* - The best song on the album, sung with alot of emotion and joy.
2. Rapid Hope Loss: * 7 Stars* - Not the best song but the chorus is very catchy, good enough that you'll never skip it.
3. As Lovers Go: *9 Stars* - One of the best on the whole cd, very deep.
4. Carry This Picture: *4 Stars* - Not bad... just not good either.
5. Bend and Not Break: *10 Stars* - Has to be the second best song and the best new song dashboard has come out with.
6. Ghost of a Good Thing: *7 Stars* - Good guitar, good vocals
7. Am I Missing: *8 Stars* - Very metaphorical and very nice rhythem
8. Morning Calls *6 Stars* - Takes awhile to getting used to.
9. Carve Your Heart Out Yourself: *7 Stars*
10. So Beautiful: *8 Stars* - One of my favorites, it grew on me
11. Hey Girl: *8 Stars* - Don't like it that much but friends absolutely love it.
12. If You Can't Leave it Be, Might as Well Make it Bleed: *7 Stars* - One of two songs produced by Chris on the album, good job

13. Several Ways to Die Trying: *7 Stars* - Overall good song

different can be good
Although DC's new album lacks the essence of their previous ones, I believe it can be as good as the others( i.e."The Places...")

The songs.....
1.) Hands Down - great song. Better than the acoustic. (Sorry to all of you hardcore fans.) But you must admit, as soon as he starts singing "Hands down this is the best day I can ever remember..." wow...it's great!
2.) Rapid Hope Loss - Such clever lyrics! Some of the best I have ever heard. "Now that I can see you, I don't think you're worth the second glance." One of my favorite tracks.
3.) As Lovers Go - Pretty good song. Not one of my faves and isn't that catchy, although I like the chorus.
4.) Carry This Picture - This song doesn't have much depth when he's singing.
5.) Bend and Not Break - The best intro on the CD!!! (when the drums come in) The band sounds sooooo good!
6.) The Ghost of a Good Thing - Classic Dashboard song.
7.) Am I Missing - Really cool chorus. I like.
8.) Morning Calls - "Don't blink, everyone's watching. They'll think you're up to something." My favorite line on this CD. I don't know why, it just touches me somehow. I'm in love with the lyrics. This is my favorite song.
9.) Carve Your Heart Out Yourself - Awesome bridge! Ok chorus. But overall good song.
10.) So Beautiful - For some reason, this song doesn't stick out. But I still like it.
11.) Hey Girl - EWWWW I don't like this song. It's just toooo differen't.
12.) If You Can't Leave it Be..." This is an ok song. Not one I listen to allll the time though.
13.) Several Ways to Die Trying - The BEST chorus and my second favorite song!! I love it! Actually it might tie with "Morning Calls" I love when he screams at the end.

Chris Carrabba is the best and most creative song writer ever! I don't know how he does it, but I praise him for it!!!!! I can't wait to see him live in concert on September 21st in San Diego!!! :-)

Emo is no better than pop-punk, D/C blows!!
I listned to the sound samples on this site and I'm convinced this band is horrible already. This Chris Carbala guy has no talent with guitars and has a whiny voice. It's all a part of the emo genre. A genre of terrible music created about four years ago on MTV. The same can be said about pop-punk. You'll see alot of these emo kids at the mall. Why do these mall-rats enjoy listening to a 27 year old complain about high school break ups and kisses? I know why, they think its music made for them. When they cry from a breakup they listen to this crap to feel better. I broke up with my girlfriend two months ago and I wasn't crying and listening to D/C, I just said "There's plenty of fish in the sea." I'm still in high scool and I used to hang out with these emo kids. After the classic rock kids introduced me to their favored music, I went with them instead. Now I have a better taste in music and a stronger will. All of you emo kids should stop listening to this horse dung and listen to RATM or Led Zeppelin. RATM is hostile Marxist rap-metal, and Led Zeppelin is legendary hard-rock. No "deep" crap in it. D/C is no better than Simple Plan or Good Charlotte, face it. DIE D/C DIE!!!!

*insert sound of me disembowling myself in desperation*
I was writing this review and my broswer crashed. Sadly, I had quite the rant about this CD going. And it's gone. So I'll be concise here. This CD is like being kicked in the nuts for an hour. Each minute, you can feel your manhood being crushed. One song about girl trouble is cool, even 2 can work. This is about a WHOLE DAMN ALBUM full of them. What the hell? If he's made his whole career out of this, he must have some problems with women that his recording career couldn't begin to help. This is the kind of guy who makes stubbing his toe seem like an epic struggle.
I'm not a fan of this music. It'd be a stretch for me to even say I like it. I'd be lying if I said I didn't change the station when "emo" or whatever this crap is called anyone comes on the radio. But I can't stress it enough when I say Dashboard Confessional is one of the few bands that made me irate just from hearing them. All I could think of is "AFI without any balls whatsoever". THEN I had to sit through this CD on a car ride. Every passing second killed me. I felt my soul slowly choking to death. Had I been driving, I would have wrapped my car around the biggest tree I could find within 2 minutes. This proves the concept of the fundamentally "good" God false, because any truly benevolent God wouldn't let this exist. I can't even begin to tell you what songs I hated worse, I was too busy thinking about anything I could to not have this junk invade my headspace. To be fair, I only listened to the first 6 songs before taking the initiative to take the CD out the player and say "I can't take this, put in something else now.". I've never done that before or since. I highly, and I mean HIGHLY doubt the rest of the songs could be any better.
Let the "non-helpful" review ratings flow. I don't care. I will have done my duty to mankind if one person has been persuaded to spend their money on something more worthwhile, like black tar heroin or a baby harp seal fur coat.

nothing short of brilliant
Hands down, a mark a mission a brand a scar was a great dashboard album. Any true fan would agree. For although it is much different than any of their other albums, it's different in a good way. D/C has only grown and perfected their unique sound. BUY THIS ALBUM! ... Read more

Album Description

Japanese reissue of the Orange County punker's 1990 Epicdebut with two rare bonus tracks: 'Shame On Me' and theircover of 'It's All Over Now'. 12 tracks total, alsofeaturing 'So Far Away', 'Let It Be Me', 'Story Of My Life'and 'Ball And Chain'. 1997 Sony release. ... Read more

Reviews (46)

What is the guy from Hobart, WA thinking?
First of all, I must state that this album is one of the essenetials in your collection, if you wish to truly understand punk rock, and rock n' roll in general. Songs like "Story of My Life" and "Ball and Chain" are the ones that make you think, the ones that procure an emotional reaction. The glimpse you get into Mike Ness's head is true-to-life, not the usual bull$#1+ that a lot of bands exude. Second, this guy from Hobart, WA that wrote a review of this album is clearly ignorant and mis-(or un- , either prefix applies here)informed. While he's surely entitled to his opinion, he should get his facts straight. Social Distortion released their first lp in 1981. They're not some "new" band that just became popular. Also notice that his review was posted in 1998, 8 years after this particular album was released. They've had 2 more studio releases since, not to mention their "Live at The Roxy" album which encompasses songs from 1981 through 1996. Get the facts straight before you start attacking someone's work.

classic social d....empty bottles and broken hearts!!
This has to be their best studio album so far. The songs have a noticeable country/hard rock type of influence to them and were recorded when the band seemed to be going more for the 1950s "greaser" , tight white shirt and leather jacket image and less for their earlier eye-liner and spiked hair look . Aside from that the album is great ...every song on here is a classic and will never get old . Like others have commented Social D is true punk rock and is not on mtv or vh1 or the charts (most radio stations never play them either). This really is a good thing too because it keeps them from getting mixed up with everyone who calls themself punk (good charlette , blink 182 , avril lavinge). Come on do you want to listen to some real punk sung by a guy thats 42 or some guy that looks like he hasnt even started shavin' ....As far as the album goes you will like it its one of their best!!

The album that really put Social Distortion on the map
For bands like Soundgarden and Jane's Addiction, albums like Superunknown and Ritual de lo Habitual, respectively, are the albums that put them on the map. Equally important to the alternative rock soundscape was SoCal punk/rockabilly outfit Social Distortion. For Social Distortion, their turning point album was/is their 1990 self-titled album. From the opening, Social D, as they are affectionally called by punk purists everywhere, come out swinging with "So Far Away", it with its soaring riffs and Mike Ness's trademark gruff, gritty vocals. "Let it Be Me" carries the same hard-rocking torch, setting the tone for the quieter, more rockabilly "Story of My Life", and the excellent Johnny Cash cover "Ring of Fire". Throw in hit song, "Ball and Chain" and what we have here is the making of a punk rock/rockabilly masterpiece. In its future albums, Social Distortion would tinker with more overtly rockabilly sounds (Somewhere between Heaven and Hell) and straight ahead hard rock (White Light, White Heat, White Trash), with interesting but sometimes mixed results. On their 1990 self-titled, Social D got the balance the most correct, and for this reason, this, their self-titled imprint, is the definitive Social Distortion album to own.

Sick boy
Ok, as much as I love Social D, Sick boy made me exactly that. Sick. I've always been a Social D fan, so dont think I'm doing this cuz I dont appreciate them. if you want to hear the original (and in my opinion, the much much better) version of this song, get the MxPx album "Let it Happen." Social D just somehow made that song boring. Otherwise, I love them. Go out and buy it.

It's only Rock-n-Roll
I am east coast as they come and came upon punk rock rather late after trying everything else--rap, country, you name it. I saw the Ramones in a club and got a promo copy of Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell around the same time in my early twenties and have been listening to those two bands almost exclusively since then. I have owned all of Social D's discs for years now. This one is the best if for no other reason because of tracks 3 through 6, all of which are punk classics in my book. I love this music and I love the roots of this music. If you love classic rock and country but need a little overdrive then this is it. That is not to say that it is anything but true to the anti-establishment west coast punk genre that these guys practically define. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Founded by guitarist/songwriter Greg Ginn, Black Flag exploded out of L.A. in 1981 with a debut album so confrontational that MCA Records refused to release it, stating that Black Flag was "immoral" and lacking "redeeming social value." When the album finally came out on Ginn's own SST label, it was clear why MCA recoiled, as Black Flag's skinhead look and hardcore sound signaled a new chapter in punk--and rock in general. With Henry Rollins's venom-dripping vocals leading the way, the album features such hostile teeth-gnashers as "Rise Above" ("Try to stop us/It's no use"), "Six Pack" ("I got a six pack, and nothing to do"), and, of course, "Life of Pain."--Billy Altman ... Read more

Reviews (88)

This Is The Album....
...where Black Flag traded in hardcore for DIY hard rock. Ignore the moniker (associated with groundbreaking EP's like "Nervous Breakdown" and "Jealous Again") and the baldy on the jacket and just listen. Most of the songs crawl. The guitars sound like SSD's "See How We Rock" metal album, only faster and denser, with busy, trebly Judas Priest leads.

I don't want to say the lyrics are stupid, because in places--funny pastiches like "TV Party" and "Six Pack"--they are effectively so. But for most of the album, especially the droning second half, they're dully generic. Adolescent bitching without context, complexity, or strangeness. Few of the left-field insights of punk here; any nimrod in my eighth grade shop class could've written more interesting stuff.

Rollins's vocals are labored, they don't flow. He sounds exactly like my middle-school gym teacher sweating his way through a tonsil exam, which he basically is. Yeah, I know he didn't write the songs, but any other joe could've barked them with more feeling. Vocals by HR, Ian MacKaye or even Keith Morris seem to burst out of their heads in a wildly free-expressive geyser. Rollins just sounds like he's counting his breaths.

When I was a teenager Black Flag was the only "hardcore" band most of my classmates knew about, but that's mainly because they asked nothing of their fans. To jump from Iron Maiden to BF you didn't have to broaden your mind, sharpen your wits, or adjust your tastes much. Here was your slightly swifter Black Sabbath riffage with jock vocals and songs about anger, cops, and partying ("satirical" if you like). Catchy, sincere, passably "bad boy", but unchallenging in any way.

This effort gets three stars because of "Rise Above" and a couple of others--the intro to "Six Pack" is one of the most menacing pieces of music ever recorded--but you can kind of tell the party was over for Black Flag by now. They'd done their part by codifying America's hardcore sound and building its touring circuit almost from scratch. A worthy legacy, and one to which irrelevant crossover attempts like this should take a far back seat.

Raw, powerful, amazing 80s harcore punk
This is definitely Black Flag's best cd ever. That says a lot, considering that Black Flag put out so many rockin albums. Damaged is full of energy and rawness that almost makes it sound like a live album. Thats one of my favorite things about Black Flag- the pure, unbridled energy....I wish I would've been alive to see these guys in concert. Anyway, my favorite tracks are 'Rise Above,' 'Six Pack,' 'Depression,' and in my opinion the best, "TV Party.' The whole album is great, however, and its quite hard to pick out standout tracks when they are all so...good. Buy this album, if you are a fan of 80s punk like Bad Brains, Minor Threat, and the Dead Kennedys. And to all the Blink and Sum41 fans- sorry, but you need balls to listen to this rad album.

The quintissential hardcore album.
Imagine the rawness, the simple fast catchiness of the Ramones. Now imagine it being even faster, harder, and louder. Imagine it being completely out of control, with extremely distorted guitar riffs and lyrics that explode from the singer's throat. Imagine raw, unchecked emotion flowing from your speakers. You've just imagined Damaged.
Black Flag's first full length is a truly brilliant album, an unparalleled work of punk art that still sounds as dangerous, angry, and intense as it did twenty three years ago.
The music is exactly what it should be, a mix of slashing, high speed power chords, driving, light-speed bass lines, and powerful gut-punching drums, all of which back Henry Rollins' venomous, acidic roar.
The lyrics, penned mostly by guitarist and bandleader Greg Ginn, tackle such topics as hate, depression, rebellion, lonliness, and confusion, with the occasional cynically funny song. Songs like "Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie," "Depression," and "Thirsty and Miserble" are entirely serious in nature telling of suicide, and the general vagaries of being human.
Meanwhile, "Six Pack" and "T.V. Party" mock popular culture (My favorite line off Damaged is from "T.V. Party": "I wouldn't be without my T.V. for a day, OR EVEN A MINUTE! I don't even bother to use my brain anymore, THERE'S NOTHING LEFT IN IT!")
And since Black Flag began to experiment with art rock and poetry on later albums, Damaged is also important as Flag's last truly "punk" album. Truth be told, Damaged does have a lot of historical significance: It is a perfect document of eighties hardcore punk, and another landmark of Rock (n' roll).

Excellent punk, an extreme rarity.
Unlike most punk bands, Black Flag is rather excellent. What did you expect from a band who's singer is Henry Rollins. I like his angry style of music, he's punk but he's not. That means he has the lyrics to be called punk but he doesn't have that stupid punk voice with it. This album is a deffinite keeper and should be listen to by all who love good music.

Dont Listen to "Punk_Rawk_Vetren"
-I just wanted to point out that "Punk_Rawk_Vetren" thinks this band is not punk. I also noticed that he thinks the Sex Pistols, Dead Kennedys, and several other punk bands, are in fact, "not" punk. This is ofcource making no sence see'in as those are some of the most popular punk bands. Now I start looking at what this guy does like, and i found out that he calls bands like MxPx and Sum 41 "punk." This aint true at all, those bands are new age rock, also called "alternative rock" and is kind of a pop-punk type catagory of music. Finally people should notice the way he talks, he sounds more of a hip-hop ghetto type person, so how would he know whats true punk.
-To everyone actually listening to this guy talk, he dont know what the hell he is talking about. So dont take his advice. And because of the info i have gathered i can rightfully call him a "Poser" and im sure everyone in those bands he is against would call him the same. Sum 41 and mxpx are NOT punk, but Black Flag, Sex Pistols and so on, ARE punk. Im glad i got that off my chest, cuz i cant stand people like "punk_rawk_vetren" he aint a vetren and no punk would spell out "rawk" only idiots.
-This band is awsome i give em 5 stars, thank you very much. ... Read more

Amazon.com

While anything but novel, the follow-up to Brand New's emo-punk-blast debut Your Favorite Weapon features unexpected touches and wisps of maturity. YFW was all about the rage and misery of young, explosive love, presented with Weezer-like hooks. Deja Entendu isn’t really over it yet; lead singer Jesse Lacey still sounds damaged and full of self-loathing on mopey, post-Smiths pop like "The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot." But amidst the Jimmy Eat World choruses are experiments with sudden dynamic shifts and style (like Lacey channeling Adam Duritz for "Play Crack The Sky"), along with ruminations about the misery of cancer ("Guernica"). If Deja Entendu sounds like the work of musicians discovering their talents, it's also about learning that desperate heartache isn't just about girls who don’t call back. --Matthew Cooke ... Read more

Reviews (354)

Arguably The Best Emo CD Out There
Brand New's sophomore album, "Deja Entendu", is the best CD in the emo genre. It is a far cry (literally) from their debut album, "Your Favorite Weapon". "Weapon" could be defined as punk rock emo, with a lot of bass and guitar slamming. "Deja" is much more mellow, with brooding acoustics and vocals.

Jesse Lacey's vocals are a highlight throughout the whole album. Some songs are haunting, others more benelovent, all lyrically crafted and honed to perfect harmony.

There are many excellent tracks on this album.

Track 2, "Sic Transit Gloria...Glory Fades", is a great song about the disappointments that go hand in hand with empty, loveless sex. The bass work and vocals really stand out.

Track 4, "Okay, I Believe You But My Tommy Gun Doesn't", is my personal favorite, an arrogant boast of musical skill and personal worth.

Track 5, "The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows", is the most mainstream song on the whole album, having received an abundance of airtime on the radio. It goes from acoustic mellow to screaming rock quickly. Very good song.

Track 8, "Me vs. Maradona vs. Elvis" is calm, soothing, and brooding with quiet intensity.

Those are my favorite tracks out of the whole album, but pretty much all of the songs on there are winners.

This CD is a must for any emo fan worth their weight in gold, and any music fan that wants to hear an amazing album.

BEST CD I HAVE EVER OWNED!!
This is definately, by far, the best cd i have ever owned. I like every single song on here. BUY IT NOW..DON'T DOWNLOAD IT, SUPPORT A GREAT BAND

Song-By-Song Reviews:

Tautou: Intro, i like it a lot. Lyric: "I'm sinking like a stone in the sea, I'm burning like a bridge for your body" 5/5

Sic Transit Gloria ... Glory Fades: Great song, wasn't crazy about it at first, but after listening to a while, its amazing. Nice bass. 5/5

I Will Play My Game Beneath the Spin Light: One of my favorites on the CD. Just amazing. Lyric: "Collect Calls to home, to tell them that i realized that everyone who lives will someday die and die alone" 5/5

Ok, I Believe You, But My Tommy Gun Don't: One of my favorite songs, amazing. Starts off slow, picks up. Lyric: "I hope you come down with something they can't diagnose, don't have the cure for" 5/5

The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows: Very good song, cool guitar riffs. 4/5

The Boy Who BLocked His Own Shot: Another amazing song. One of my favorites. Lyric: "If it makes you less sad, i will die by your hand, hope you find out what you want, already know what i am. If it makes you less sad, we'll start talking again, you can tell me how vile, i already know that i am" 5/5

Jaws Theme Swimming: Pretty good song. Sounds cool. Good Lyrics. 4/5

Me Vs. Maradona Vs. Elvis: Great Song. One of my favorites. Great, Great Lyrics. Amazing song. 5/5

Guernica: Another good song. Cool sounding. Lyric: "Is this the way a toy feels when its battereies run dry. 5/5

Good to Know...: One of the first songs i knew on the cd, great lyrics, great song overall. Best Lyric: "Comatose but audible." 5/5

Play Crack The Sky: Probably my favorite song on the cd. Acoustic, great song. I don't know why, but this song is just amazing. Lyric: "I know that this is what you want. A funeral keeps both of us apart. You know that you are not alone. Need you like water in my lungs. This is the end." 7/5

I also reccommend their first cd, Your Favorite Weapon, if you are more a punk fan than emo. It has some sweet songs like "Seventy Times Seven", "Soco Amaretto Lime", "No Seatbelt Song".
Overall, Deja Entendu is an AMAZING CD, BUY IT NOW.

Can you say garbage-core?
this review will probably be followed by a review entitled "dont listen to the review below" by some angry "indie rocker". but i hate brand new and since i have a right to voice my opinion here we go....
i cant stand brand new. there is nothing original about them and they just suck. thats all i got because i dont wanna waste anymore time on reviewing such garbage.

Explosive Emo-Rock
This album absolutely blows their previous album, Your Favourite Weapon, right out of the water. The album starts off very light and quiet with Tatou. When I heard this first track I was very disappointed, but I loved the way Track 2 (Sic Transit Gloria) began. As the song progressed, it got better and better. They explode with so much energy during the choruses and it sounds awesome. They have matured a great deal from their previous album and the lyrics are amazing. (eg. "Is this a way a toy feels, when it's battery runs dry. I am what you always wear, but you forget to wash.") Wow!!!
The stand out song is easily, The Quiet Things that No One Ever Knows. The lyrics are a little ambiguous, but the song is executed with such perfection. The titles to the songs themselves, are very weird, but I guess there's a hidden purpose I'm oblivious to. Other great songs on the CD, are Guernica, The Boy Who Blocked his Own Shot, and I will Play My Game Beneath the Spin Light. The final song, Play Crack the Sky is an acoustic masterpiece that I still don't understand. It's as if they are paralleling a nautical disaster to love. Very deep indeed. A must buy.

best emo cd around
damn good cd with amazing songs....THE FLAMES RULE ... Read more

Amazon.com

While Best Of may not be inclusive enough for the avid collector because it focuses more on Blondie's new wave dance hits than on their punk beginnings, songs like "Heart of Glass," "Dreaming," "The Tide Is High," and "Call Me" display the diverse musical styles this band embraced. It's a new wave album, a reggae album, a dance album, a punk album, and a rap album. Rock-solid songwriting and Debbie Harry's sultry vocals hold the CD together despite the stylistic reaches of the tracks. --Beth Bessmer ... Read more

Reviews (62)

Solid collection of songs
I was never the biggest Blondie fan in the world, so I am glad to own "The Best of Blondie." It contains all of the band's top material on a single disc and is all most casual fans will ever need to hear. Blondie was first and formost a new wave pop band. Their best recorded efforts were all in their singles. And some great singles they did in fact record. The best on this collection are "Heart of Glass," "The Tide is High," "Sunday Girl," "One Way or Another" and "Call Me." All of these were staples of rock radio in the late 70s and early 80s and as well they should have been. Though their new wave sound is a bit dated today, this is still a fine collection singles.

Good, not great... but I can't complain.
The "Best of Blondie" hits package is good, especially considering the status of the many of the actual albums. Since only "Parallel Lines" was reissued in a proper fashion, hits collections are the only domestic outlet for such early classics as "In the Flesh" and "(I'm Always Touched by Your) Presence Dear". However, this means that other essential tracks from the lost albums will go unknown to a new audience. Sure, some are avaliable on other, lesser, hits compilations, and most of the albums are available on the import market, but this does nothing for the casual fan, and ultimatly, Blondie's legacy for the future. If any proof exists that they were more than simply a throwaway pop act from the eighties new wave scene, they are not readily available. The above mentioned songs are perfect examples of excellent ballads in Blondie's early style. The offerings from the first album ("In the Flesh" and Debbie at her catty best on "Rip Her to Shreds") are the only to feature the incredibly tasteful basslines of one time bassist Gary Valentine, who better compliments Clem Burke's drumming than any other in Blondie's history. The retro-rocker "X Offender" would have been a strong selection from this era, but is available on other disks, luckly. Another 'missing' track would be the superb "Fade Away and Radiate" with King Crimson guitar genius Robert Fripp. He adds stellar guitar to this song, which could be considered more of a departure from the pop-disco legacy Blondie has left. This omission could be excused if the incipid pop-reggae cover "The Tide is High" weren't on the album. Because of this song, Blondie's reggae influence is overexaggerated, but also appears on the equally horrible, and thankfully missing, "Die Young Stay Pretty". However, "Dreaming" is possibly one of the best songs Blondie ever recorded. This song, and the other "Eat to the Beat" offering "Atomic" make for an engaging listen, and represent that album well. Unfortunatly, the early period is underemphasised in favor of easily available "Parallel Lines" pop songs, like "Sunday Girl" and "Hanging on the Telephone", that are enjoyable, but leave a hazy legacy. All and all, a great and enjoyable album with practically no problems with what is included, and only slight problems with what is not included. Most widely released "Best of" compilations cannot even brag that.

Great songs!!!!!
This is the definitive collection! They are not repetitive like so many artists' CDs. You WILL know most of the songs on this CD.

Here are the songs you may know: HEART OF GLASS, THE TIDE IS HIGH, RAPTURE, ONE WAY OR ANOTHER, CALL ME, and RIP HER TO SHREDS. Love that last one!!!!

Great Songs with No Filler!
I have had this cd for a long time and it's terrific. Every song on the CD is good. Sure, the Greatest Hits may have a few extra songs that this doesn't, but this CD has the BEST songs. You won't have to skip any "boring" songs. As for the sound quality, I've never had a problem with it on my decent, but kind of old stereo, or in my car that has a really good system. These songs were made a while ago anyway. They originally came out on vinyl, so I'm sure the CD is an improvement from that. Anyway, you can't go wrong with this collection.

had it, sold it
This collection may be for the casual fan, but that said, who would want to be a casual fan of Blondie? Nearly all of their albums are worth getting. I bought this album thinking that I was getting their best stuff, but a lot of my favorite tracks are album cuts! Basically with this as my introduction to Blondie, I was left a bit unsatisfied. I would highly recommend starting with their self-titled debut album, or for those who really really just love "Heart of Glass", i suggest getting Parallel Lines. But seriously folks, these songs are great, but it's just not enough! Getting into Blondie could change your life! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Their formula is simple enough--equal parts teenage humor and brattiness combined with infectious guitar hooks that just beg to be cranked up on the stereo. But with Take Off Your Pants and Jacket, the guys in Blink 182 may have delivered their best album to date, a punk-pop fusion that's so consistent you'll wonder which of the 13 tracks will become radio hits (any has the chance, really). Yes, as with Dude Ranch and Enema of the State, the songs here revolve around falling in love ("The Rock Show," "First Date"), falling out of love ("Online Songs," "Happy Holidays, You Bastard"), and plenty of other ways to kill time while away from school ("Reckless Abandon"). And yes, these guitar-driven songs all pretty much sound the same, but Take Off never gets boring. There's too much nervous energy here, too many slight variations in the arrangements, and too many hilarious lyrics that you won't want to miss. Parents may remember that the Buzzcocks used this same shtick in the late '70s, older siblings may remember that Green Day did it well not so many years ago, but Blink fans know that their band is more clever than anyone else playing today. The bonus tracks are throwaways, but that's OK--the threesome have given us plenty to bop our heads to here. --Jason Verlinde ... Read more

Reviews (740)

Blink 182 rules the Rock World !!!
Like all blink albums this one improves on the last one ! Don't get me wrong , Enema of the state is just exelent , Dude Ranch rules , Chesire Cat has great lyrics but the vocals is too soft .
Take off your pants & jacket begins with Anthem Part 2 , supports teenage politics....
Followed by Online Songs , Mark Hoppus sings fast , better keep up . First Date turns back too High School with a nervous guy on his first date .... Story of a Lonely Guy is a half sweet punk rock song about a guy that falls behind . Track 6 is The Rock Show , who doesn't know this great single ? . Stay Toghether For the Kids goes about the life of divorce and love (video on the way) . Roller Coaster "favourite ride , let me kiss you one last time !" . Reckless Abandon is about a drugger . Everytime I Look for You will be seen on American Pie 2 , and will surely be a favourite many places . Followed by Give me One Good Reason that gives the finger to every principal and dominating parent . Shut up , I'll shut up about this one .
Lastly is , Please Take Me Home , telling you not to fall in love with you're hot friend (girlfriend). I Recomend every teenager in the world to BUY THIS CD . It's very good and very nice on the ear .

Every Song On Here Gets Better Every Time
That's what I think anyway. This whole CD is great from top to bottom. Not a bad song on here. Everyone knows that Blink 182 is not punk but they are pretty good. Anthem Part 2 would be my favorite track on this CD. It has great riffs and drumming.

1. Anthem Part 2: Great song. My favorite on here.

2. Online Songs: I recently got into this amazing track. Great speed with the guitars.

3. First Date: A little mellower than I want but it's okay.

4. Happy Holidays You Bastard: Great song with funny lyrics. This song gets stuck in my head a lot.

5. Story Of A Lonely Guy: Great! Perfect! Nothing else to make this track a better one. Everything is just perfect. Another personal favorite.

6. The Rock Show: I used to like this song but now it is just getting old.

7. Stay Together For The Kids: Awesome. Really hard at some parts. Yet again another personal favorite.

8. Roller Coaster: Awesome!

9. Reckless Abandon: Personal favorite again.

10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are all really good with awesome guitars and vocals.

Overall:

Nice job on this CD. A great way to spend your money!

Take Off Your Pants & Jacket....A Must!
This is an awesome cd! I'm a big Blink 182 fan, so don't diss the band! The cd has awesome songs, and some funny ones. This is one of my favorite cds from them (next to Enema), and has used up at least 6 batteries on my cd player from listening to it! Anthem Part 2: True, so very true! Online Songs: Hahaha! This is a sort of funny song, and it's good! First Date: Love it! Happy Holidays: xP Very funny! Short Story Of A Lonely Guy: Wow, this is one of my favorites on this cd The Rock Show: This one ROCKS! Stay Together For The Kids: Ooh, soo good and true! It's one of the "slowest" on the cd Roller Coaster: ^^ Very good! Love it! Reckless Abandon: 'On and on, reckless abandon Something's wrong, this is gonna shock them, Nothing to hold on to, We'll use this song to lead you on' Ooh, ^^ good! Everytime I Look For You: Not my favorite, not my least favorite Give Me One Good Reason: Hmm, very good! I like it, it's probably my 3rd favorite, it's true and it rocks! xP Shut Up: Hahaha, it's sort of funneh Please Take Me Home: hmm...good You have to get this cd, it rocks!

excellent cd
dude dont diss this band they are so good this is one of my favortie cds ever get this.

Good follow up from Enima.
This is Blinks second Pop/rock/punk cd and their 5th actual cd ( not including Flyswatter demo ). What I eman by that is their odler stuff is more Punk, and when Enima of the State came out, their music started to change a little from punk to a pop-rock punk. This cd had such great songs as Happy Holidays You Bastard, Give Me One Good Reason, and Story of a Lonely Guy. The whole cd is great but thoes are just some of my favorites. This is a great cd and I recommend it to all blink fans. ... Read more

Album Description

Green Day's first album "39/Smooth" is back in a brand new deluxe edition. Originally released in 1990 and selling over 900,000 copies to date, this album was the world's first glimpse of Green Day's unique blend of punk rock energy, melodic riffs and self depreciating charm. Green Day is the most popular punk band in the world today with millions of fans all over the world. Every track has been re-mastered from the original tapes by Bernie Grundman in 2003. This historic album sounds better than ever, and is available at a new low price. More for Less, how can that be wrong? Special Features * Enhanced CD! * Over 20 minutes of live video performances from 1990-1991 * Vintage photos, handwritten lyrics by Billie Joe and flyer art * Live radio performance and interview from 1991 * Included are the band's first two 7 inch EPs "1000 Hours" from 1989, "Slappy" from 1990 plus a compilation track from 1991 * The CD package has been redesigned by the original artist into a deluxe embossed digipack with a twelve page booklet including more art and photos from the original vinyl releases. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

It *does* sound better...
I'm not going to review this album again, considering I already did a couple of months back. Instead, I'll just answer the big question: is the new remastered, enhanced version really worth the purchase?

I think so.

Here are a few reasons why:
1. The enhanced CD features are really neat. You can look at old, previously unseen pictures of the band when they were young, listen to acoustic versions of "Paper Lanterns" and others that were previously only on the radio, etc.
2. New artwork. It's not much, but it's pretty cool to have.
3. The remastering. Honestly, when I first put it in my CD player, I said, "That's it?! It doesn't sound any different to me!" But then I put it in my discman... I was wrong. There's a difference. Now everything sounds louder and clearer, and like another reviewer said, it breathes new life into old songs.

Also, there is a version out there that has a free large Green Day t-shirt and sticker pack for the same price. That's the one I got, so look for it, although I don't know if it's limited edition or not.

Overall, if you don't have the original copy of 1,039/Smooth, and you want to buy it, make it this one. It's got all the extra features listed above, it sounds better, and oh yeah, it's cheaper. If you have the original, it's also worth checking out. Snoogins.

greendays great debut
The fact that this album is less known is unfortunate, because its green day at their best. This cd and Kerplunk are the oldest but the best of their albums. Some guy in an old rundown cd store (school feild trip), had this cd on his counter several years back. I had never seen it and had all the other green day cds to date. I asked him about it. He said that it was very rare and couldnt be bought in US. He said it was in his personal collection but that he would sell it to me for 35 bucks.Ass hole. Me (not knowing you can buy it almost anywhere) bought it for 35 dollars. Although i was pissed off when i found out, i think it was worth the money. A must have for any green day fan.

Same old Sound
Disappointed for the most part...the extras are cool but not nearly enough to justify a re-release. Other bands I've been a fan of have re-released old stuff, but took the time to make the music 100 times better....redid guitar tracks, vocals, etc., made it more polished. The actual music from the album sounds exactly like it did in 1991. A great album, don't get me wrong, but don't expect a wall of guitar sound now. It's the same as it was. If a couple of songs off a concert video interest you or a handful of songs from an old radio show interest you...spend the money. If you're a fan and have never purchased this album...spend the money. If you're old like me and bought this in 1991, save your money....it's been there, done that. On the bright side, I didn't buy the last couple Green Day albums so I'm still ahead in the long run. ALL, no ALL!

Better than Before?
I will readily admit that I was a bit skeptical about this re-release, but my fears have been silenced after purchasing it. It breathes new life into old songs, and gives this album the sound it deserves. A MUST OWN for Green Day fans - even if you have the original version.

My favorite Green Day CD
That's right I like this one the best. I can't believe only one other person left a "review" for this so far. So for those who missed out on this one becuase it was released before Green Day was a popular group, you really should check this one out. There are a lot of good songs on here, and it's a MUCH better album compared to the last Green Day CD I bought, "Warning". Totally recommended for Green Day fans or fans of punk rock in general. ... Read more

Reviews (177)

They went the wrong direction
I remember when Something Corporate was labeled "piano powered punk". Not anymore. Something Corporate can be described in one word now: Pop. They are far from punk and I hope they realize that. There are 8 new songs on this CD, with 6 being remixed from "Audioboxer" and "Ready...Break". Sadly, the only new song that is halfway decent on this album is "I woke up in a car", and that is pure pop. The same formula was used for every song, even on "Punk Rock Princess", which lost its credibility to me when strings were added at the end of the song. Could've just called it "Pop Princess". The only good song on here was an old favorite of mine before, "Cavanaugh Park". The strings added a much needed touch, but I like the drums from the original production better. Another plus is the pure talent of their drummer, Brian Ireland. Very creative beats. One thing I have trouble believing, though, is all the credit Andrew McMahon is getting for his "heart-wrenching" lyrics. Granted, he has displayed this talent in the past, but none of the new songs do anything for me. It all seems too generic. If you want some great lyrics from Andrew, listen to "Walking By" off Audioboxer. Pure Beauty. However, none of that is visible in the new songs. In my opinion, don't buy this cd. Download a few songs, like "Cavanaugh Park" and "I woke up in a car". All I'm left to do is sit back and wonder how great Something Corporate could've been if they hadn't sold out.

Purely Derivative
Something Corporate, an outfit who's namesake is much more descriptive than ironic, is one of a host of pop-punk bands achieving popular notoriety from angst-ridden teens and pre-teens searching for alternatives to the post-rock and hip-hop dominating radio airplay today. It's all rather homogenous and ridiculous, but Leaving Through The Window is particularly bad, however, for the simple fact that it is formulaic in its approach and lacks any sort of musical vision. It is as if Something Corporate merely incorporated all of the poppier elements of every other pop-punk release in the past five years, crafted songs around the typical material (you know, the kind of stuff that thirteen year old girls write about in their diaries), and called it an album.

There are so many of these bands floating around out there in the wasteland we call the pop culture landscape, it's maddening. It is little more than image BASED, corporatized, formulaic trash, a pop-culture afterthought, of the worst kind. The fact that the genre is so saturated means should mean that it's ripe for progression and experementation, not so with this crowd. For all of the angst and whining in Leaving Through The Window, there isn't even a HINT of post-punk (or profundity for that matter) progressivism. Leaving Through The Window is purely derivative, if you've heard any of the slew of (emo-leaning) guitar pop bands out there, then you've heard it (probably a thousand times over).

There was a time time when punk rock minimalism, heavily influenced by country/rockabilly and pre-British invasion rock, was progressive musically and lyrically. It was challenging and edgy, written about and for the working-class; it was a statement against the arrogance and pretentiousness of prog. rock. I miss those days, but alas, the anger, social awareness, and progressivism of the punk rock genre are no longer present, and what is left after the smoke clears is image. Leaving Through The Window, like all other albums in the genre is a collection of hook-laden guitar pop songs accessible to the armies of dissatisfied suburban kids who don't like their parents. AGAIN, Something Corporate is PURELY DERIVATIVE, and that's not too good in a substance-less genre. My advice: if you're interested in this whole punk-thing, give the Ramones, Iggy Pop and the Stooges, The Clash, the Sex Pistols, Patti Smith, the Buzzcocks, and Television a listen; if, however, you are content to leave punk well alone and listen to modern guitar pop, stick with artists like Weezer, Green Day, and the like they are truely pioneers in the genre (not that that means much anyway).

FME
If you like showoff check out chris from showoffs new band Farewell My Enemy at www.farewellmyenemy.com they are really f'n awesome.
Tom

One of my favorites of all time
Something Corporate is unlike all those other bands you're probably listening to right now. They've got a piano and even though it seems like that wouldn't "fit", it's awesome. At least to me, the fact that Something Corporate sounds "different" is refreshing. In a music industry dominated by bands that are easily grouped together and classified into genres, Something Corporate just won't lump in with a few counterparts. I've heard a lot of people call it emo, or punk, or what have you, but truthfully I don't really think it fits into any of those categories. I think their sound is really something you have to hear for yourself to be able to understand.

Of course there will be people who won't like Something Corporate, but I would have to say that "Leaving Through the Window" is one of my favorite CDs in my collection. I could listen to it every day without getting sick of it. No skipping tracks, every song is great...not to mention the singer has a really hot voice (LOL). Anyway, I would defnitely reccomend giving Something Corporate a try. If you haven't heard them before, you should try "Leaving Through the Window" first. It's more "pop"py than their second album, which (in my opinion) takes a while to grow on you. Just give them a listen. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Unique Style and UNIQUE SOUND
I purchased Something Corporate about a year ago because I thought this was going to be another punk-pop CD. That was not the case when I put the CD in, and listened to from beginning to end. "Leaving Through The Window" is a unique album mixed with piano ballads, pure punk, and strong emotional emo-type lyrics. "I Want to Save You" is the first track on the album. It's a great opener because when you listen to it, you automatically think, "WOW this song is Redunkulous!!" (Redunkulous means - Absolutely Ridiculous) Another strong track is " I Woke Up in A Car." This song makes me want to get into a car and take a long road trip in the summer months. "Cavanaugh Park" stands out also, because it is so different from the other songs. It's a straight piano ballad, but don't worry, the song isn't corny or cheesy. The song that stood out the most was "You're Gone." I happened to buy this CD right after I broke up with my ex-girlfriend, and this song isn't recommended if you're trying to get over someone, because it won't help at all. It'll only make you even more sad or depressed. But anyway, back to the album. Overall, this CD deserves to be bought, and it also deserves to be listened to. Something Corporate just released their sophomore album entitled, "North." I don't think it's as strong as "Leaving Through The Window," but it's still a great album, and I also recommend picking that up also.

"she wrote me a letter from san Diego
to qualify her luck
these flights connect through Arizona
but I think I'll stay stuck" - "I Woke Up in a Car." ... Read more

Reviews (50)

WELL BOWL ME DOWN!
Strait outta Texas comes the second major lable release from Bowling For soup and it ROCKS! Power-pop,Emo,Pop-punk call it what you will this is just a perfect rock and roll record. This is the first release of all new songs in a long time for the old BFS fans, and it won't dissapoint you. For new listeners you should pick this up and use it as a menu for the dinning you will experince at one of the most entertaining live shows you will ever see! Massive radio air play of the first single "Girl all the bad guys want" may have gotten your taste buds going for this CD and its attention is well deserved. "Girl all the bad guys want" could very well be the best BFS song ever written. However the fun deosnt stop there! The Cd opens with the very catchy "I dont wanna rock" and moves into my favorite on the CD "Emily". This is an amazing song that the boys have been playing live for a year or so and it sounds great on record. Another strong point would be "Life without Lisa" which is yet another song about the girl that got away and as BFS would put it, "....its not so bad at all". Love lost is the main theme on this record as it has been on past ones. The differnce is they seem to be fine with there lack of achievment in the love department. They have taken a subject that is supposed to be a drag and turned it into sit-com! Songs like "The hard way", "Surf Colorado" and "She's got a Boyfreind" all deal with this subject. The funny lines just keep coming and the music just keeps rocking from start too oops...... not the finish. The last song or "Bonus Track" is an acoustic version of the old BFS hit "Belgium". You should pick up any other BFS CD to hear "Belgium" as it was written, this song is now on every single BFS record to date. This CD is just slap your momma rockin and laugh out loud funny! BUY IT! You dont want to be the only one in the pit who deosnt know the lyrics at the show, do you?

classic
BFS is another pop-punk band, but dont dismiss them right away. You will be tempted to think all songs sound the same, which is close to the truth, but the lyrics, and the way they are sung makes each song unique. They all have good hooks that push them over the top, making this a solid cd by an exscellent band.

1. I Don't Wanna Rock - not one of the best, it is still kinda catchy though, and shows their good musicianship. 3/5

2. Emily - this isnt very special at first listen, but the verses are delivered well as are the choruses. It takes a few listens. This is their 2nd andmost recent single, and the video rocks, check it out. 5/5

3. Girl All the Bad Guys Want - the first single, great tune, great instruments, probably the first one that you get into. the first listen should capture you. 5/5

4. On and On (About You) - kinda cool, but doesnt compare to the better ones. the chorus can be kinda boring. in the end the singer sings in spanish and does it well. 3/5

5. Surf Colorado - again your basic punk-pop, though it is still kinda catchy there are way better tunes. you will probably skip this one over, but oh well. 2/5.

6. Life After Lisa - what a great song, the second one i really got into. such great lyrics, and the chorus will pull u in. 5/5

7. Where to Begin - this is the only song that is really meant to be a ballad but it still is punky and poppy. i dont like it as much as some others, and 5 minutes is way too long.

8. Last Rock Show - i love this song. only 1:28, but it starts of with a bang, when the singer goes "yeahhhhhhh" in his funny voice and i love that part, it just rocks on form there. 5/5.

9. Self-Centered - catchy and funny lyrics, very good vocal melody. 5/5

10. Hard Way - ehhh ok, what else can i say. 3/5.

11. Out the Window - ok 3/5.

12. Cold Shower Tuesdays - great lyrics sung well. extremily catchy. 4/5

13. Running from Your Dad - so funny, great melodies. i like when he talks about the seethru underwear and porn dvds. listen to the song. 5/5.

14. Scaring Myself - decent. 3/5

15. She's Got a Boyfriend Now - kinda annoying 2/5

16. Greatest Day - the bonus song. kinda catchy though the better songs were earlier in the cd. 3/5

17-27 - silence - not too good, but better than some songs by some other bands.

28. An acoustic version of one of the songs on their debut album which u should get too. very catchy but slow and melodic.

The Best Band
This is an awesome CD! I highly recommend getting it. I know all the songs by heart and Girl all the Bad guys want is NOT the reason to buy this CD. My personal fav is number 10.

Soup for the lost soul: None better!
There is no doubt in my mind that this is one of the best punk pop CDs on the market to date! The lyrics are original and edgy (about post-love situations). The more I listen to this CD, the more I like it. You can feel your girl's dad come after you with the shovel...even YOU start thanking Emily for leaving...they simply don't get much better than this. Too bad, Freaky Friday didn't feature more of Bowling's tunes!

Drunk Enough To Dance....So True
I had never heard a single song from this cd when i bought it and i had never heard of the band either. I had seen people with shirts that said bowling for soup on them at concerts but i didnt know what the hell it meant at the time. But when i saw a title like Drunk Enough To Dance....i wanted to give it a chance. Pathetic i know. But it turned out to probably be my favorite cd in my collection of around 150. That tops great cds from bands like, brand new, new found glory, blink 182, good charlotte, green day, goldfinger, yellowcard, eve 6, etc. Greatest Day is a bonus track but is probably the best song on the entire cd so dont stop one you are on the bonus tracks. And dont miss the last song (28) which comes in after about 8 songs of silence which takes maybe thiry seconds. It is an acoustic electric mixed song and is amazing. The best songs on the cd come early though. The girl on the bad guys want is very catchy and you have probably already heard it if you are reading this wanting to buy the cd. If you like other pop punk bands, you will love this one. ... Read more

Reviews (87)

Does this band really exist?
This is definately the best ep i've ever heard from a band. Drive-thru has really found talent with senses fail. This cd full of fast, gritty guitars and is full of emotion. I've never heard a punk band come out and tell it how it is with relationships (187). what I don't understand is how some people say senses fail is cliche. HOW DO U FIGURE? Name a band who sounds like senses fail. THAT's WHAT I THOUGHT! No one has their raw emotion and trueful lyrics. They're original and are very talented for being a band for only 2 years. They can only get better. 1 year ago finch and their debut cd "what it is to burn" was my favorite but i don't think they match senses fail. I'm not only speaking of "In the depth of dreams". I've heard their whole new cd "let it enfold you"(which isn't released yet) and it is by far the best album I've ever heard. I'm not kidding. So all of you be looking forward to that release and get it. Back to this cd review, favorite songs are "freefall without a parachute", "bloody romance", and "187". JUST BUY IT!!!

Get Ready For Some Heart Throbing Punk Rock!
Hmm, when a CD is only 5.99 what is the first thing that comes to your mind. Is it "crap music that no one in the right mind would buy", or is it "Must be a cool CD or it would'nt be on sale". Well I chose to go with the second one, and it was almost the best decssion I've ever made with music. Everything about this CD is spectacular. From the way he screams to even the catchy lyrics. They're a terrific band and need to come out with the actual CD. The lyrics are so cool, they're a punk rock band that sings about eating out peoples hearts. It dosent really fit the music but it sounds great. In my opinion the best song is either "187" or "Free Fall Without a Parachute", but the whole EP is great. I can't wait to see them at the Warped Tour. If you hate punk give it a chance, you may just like it. I have freinds that listen to Slipknot that like them. Tell all of you'r freinds about Senses Fail, and buy this EP.

this is a great cd
this cd is just great. this band just has the talent to be the best punk band. i give this 5 stars because this has just has everything. this band has great guitarist, good bass and a great drummer, who is 16. then there lead singer has a great voice and is still a good singer when screaming.

stephen- 5/5 this is a great intro and a touching song
freefall without a parachute- 4/5 because this song has a great chorus but kind of gets old, but good guitar.
bloody romance- 5/5 its starts with a good guitar than the bass kicks in and it is awesome. the singer does great on this song.
dreaming a reality-3/5 really a great intro, good lyrics, and the drummer does good, but not their best song.
the ground folds- 5/5 i like tis one better than the acoustic because u get more into it, it sounds alot more like senses fail,and great lyrics.
one eight seven- 5/5 i would give this more than 5/5 because it is an awesome song, if u think of this band, this is probably the song, the yelling and lyrics fit so unbelieably well, i love this song.
handguns and second chances- 4/5 i like the lyrics, but not as much as the other songs, but the instruments are all good.
the ground folds (acoustic)- 4/5 i think that this is a good song and they play it well, but honestly they are alot better together than acoustic.

Rock Rampage
For a person such as me looking for the harder and more up and coming bands Senses Fail has it. The mix of punk and hard rock beats makes this album full of energy. I can feel the emotion coming out of this album it was put together very well. The track list is perfect makeing it a cd I and hopefully you can listen to over and over again. Enjoy once again Drive-Thru Records has found yet another great band to bring to the public eye.

SENSES FAIL RULES YOU!!!!!
First off, i have had this cd since it came out and i still cannot stop listening to it. IT IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! The lyrics are intense, the DRUMMING IS AWESOME, and the guitars are perfect. OVERALL this is one of the best bands ever to come out of drive thru... GO BUY THIS CD NOW!!! YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Even darker than their purple-hued debut, the Doors' follow-up, Strange Days, closed 1967 with an ominous flourish. Highlighted mostly by short, radio-friendly tunes such as the bluesy "Love Me Two Times" and the cabaret-style "People Are Strange" and featuring a smattering of edgy recitations ("Horse Latitudes") and smoky rockers ("My Eyes Have Seen You"), the album features a centerpiece that was another ambitious extended track, "When the Music's Over." On it, Morrison railed at everything from organized religion to pollution, and his rallying cry--"We want the world, and we want it now!"--became a call to arms for the counterculture rising up around the band. --Billy Altman ... Read more

Reviews (75)

Strong followup to their debut
Strange Days is the Doors' followup to their stellar self-titled debut album and continues the high standard that was prevalent in all of their studio albums with Jim Morrison. While this album is best known for the excellent hit singles "People Are Strange" and "Love Me Too Times", many of the other tracks such as "Moonlight Drive", the tender "You're Lost Little Girl", and the spooky title track are among their best work. Ray Manzarek's organ playing is strong throughout, particularly on the carnival-like "Unhappy Girl" and on the title track. Robby Krieger's playing is more laid-back here, added more for color although "Love Me Two Times" features one of his more memorable guitar riffs. The chaotic "Horse Latitudes" is certainly the weirdest track they've ever recorded but it fits in well considering the overall dark mood of the album. "When The Music's Over", their second 10 minute-plus epic in as many albums, is also a strong track, but not nearly as dramatic as "The End." The tracks "My Eyes Have Seen You" and "I Can't See Your Face In My Mind" are decent, but aren't as strong as the rest of the album. A very solid album, but not an essential release like their debut album or Morrison Hotel.

Sophomore effort proves Doors legacy in rock history
If you look at the copyrights on the songs, most of these were written about the same time as their debut album, The Doors. A casual fan might say that the later album had all the hits, but a true Door's purist will most definitely concede "Strange Days" as being close to perfection. Overall this album will mesmerize you with the dark, gloomy, and brilliant lyrics of Jim Morrison. Starting with the ethereal "Strange Days," Morrison's vocals shine on "Moonlight Drive," the minor hit "Love Me Two Times," and the eerie "You're Lost Little Girl", one of Ray Manzarek's favorites (See Disk 4 of The Doors Box Set). Not to be out gunned by "The End" on the previous album, "Strange Days" ends with the eleven-minute "When the Music's Over", the often featured closing song in many Doors live shows. If you even partially like the Doors debut album, "Strange Days" is a required follow up.

What Happened????
This is a dissappointing follow up indeed. About as dissapointing at the follow up to Katrina and the Waves follow up to thier monster hit debut. The Doors just released this one too soon I feel. The title cut is somewhat decent, but "You're lost little girl" had a good intro, but they used a key change where there shouldn't have been one, "Love Me 2x's" , and "People Are Strange" have been overplayed, so I know where they stand. "Moonlight Drive", and "Horse Lattitudes" pretty much save this album from being completely panned by me. "Horse Lattitudes" is probably one of the best poems ever written, but when surrounded by weaker material it's going to get lost in the shuffle. "When The Music's Over" lacks the power and potency of "The End", and "Unhappy Girl" is annoying with the circus organ. This was obviously a rush job.

The mainstream starts to crack a little
When the chaos of the 1960's was in full force, three rock albums were released to massive popular acclaim: "Sergeant Pepper", "Surrealistic Pillow", and "The Doors". The first two celebrated ART and the ethos of psychedelia/flower power. The Doors' debut album contained the most explosive AM radio single ever released ("Light My Fire), and an epic take on the Oedipus complex ("The End"). Shortly thereafter the Doors put out "Strange Days", and it was pretty apparent that the euphoria of the time was beginning to run down. Within a year it was all over: Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy assassinated, police riots in the streets of Chicago, the war in Vietnam facing first the Tet Offensive and then its biggest troop buildup.
This brilliant album marks the passage into that viciously accelerated time. Strange days indeed.

Dark, apocalyptic masterpiece that's richly atmospheric
STRANGE DAYS, like the best music of the major bands of 1960s, encapsulates the disillusionment of the youth and a need for a radical reordering of society. In many ways, STRANGE DAYS is The Doors' best album. Dark, melodic, and richly poetic, nowhere else do they manage to create such a compelling portrait of the blossoming counterculture. Gone is the more poppy elements of their debut. Instead, The Doors fill STRANGE DAYS with songs about lost girls, isolation ("People Are Strange"), radically shifting cultural norms (title cut), and psychedelic epic poetry about wanting the world and wanting it right now ("When the Music's Over)". "Love Me Two Times," a song about a solider going away to Viet Nam and wanting to be with his lover, expresses the frustration that many felt at that senseless war. "Moonlight Drive," the song Jim sung to Manzarek when he wanted to start a band, is a love song, but one that turns musical convention on its head. "Horse Latitudes," a wonderfully odd, very disturbing recording of Morrison reading one of his poems, further contributes to the very dark, moody atmosphere that the band successfully maintains throughout the entire album. "When the Music's Over," a brooding masterpiece, deals with ecological issues, organized religion, and wanting the world right now. This is the true centrepiece of the album, and, as the Amazon review says, a rallying cry to the budding counterculture.

The cover art is one of the best and most appropriate covers I have ever seen for an album. The cover gives you a glimpse into what you will find on the album: a freakshow, a world where people are trying to find their own way and how the generation gap grew leaps and bounds in the 1960s. The cover art tells us we a long way from the staunch, McCarthy-driven 1950s, where the world made a lot more sense to people. Albums like this would never have been released during the 1940s and 1950s. Just by looking at the cover, you could tell this was a radical departure from the musical sensibilities of the preceeding decade. This definitely isn't your parent's music.

What makes STRANGE DAYS so revelatory is how undeniably dark this is. In many ways, this very dark undercurrent makes the music on STRANGE DAYS all the more radical. Released at the height of the "All you need is love" mentality embraced by much of the counterculture, The Doors offer this visionary music. Buy wedding dark, deeply apocalyptic lyrics and very moody, depressing music to very poppy elements and consistently stunning melodies, The Doors present a very different and much more dangerous picture of society. Much of the genius of STRANGE DAYS is, while it is very poppy, it totally reinvents the subject matter of pop, creating an aural snapshot of the fear, uncertainty, and growing social and political unrest that was rapidly spreading throughout the youth in the 1960s. While The Beatles were singing it's getting better, The Doors, much like T. S. Eliot, were expressing fear and isolation and confronting the dark undercurrents of their time.

All of these elements, along with The Doors' unique sound and undeniably powerful musical talents, make STRANGE DAYS one of rock's most essential albums. Although I prefer the debut to this for sentimental reasons, The Doors never equaled this masterpiece again. They simply could not maintain the densely rich, dark atmosphere, the genius song-writing, or the fantastic psychedelia. This, along with THE DOORS, stand tall among the very best that rock has to offer. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

!!! WE CAN SEE NOW !!!
ISNT IT FUNNY HOW PEOPLE CAN ACTUALLY REVIEW THIS ALBUM STATING " DONT BUY THIS CD, ITS NOT NEW MATERIAL! " DUH. IM SURE ANY FAN OF THESE GUYS KNOWS THAT ALREADY. HOW LONG HAVE YOU LISTENED TO THESE GUYS FOR, LIKE SINCE THEIR LAST SINGLE CAME OUT ON YOUR MAMMAS RADIO? THIS CD/DVD COMBO IS FOR THE FANS CHUMP, AND IT ROCKS HARD. THE CD IS LIKE A PRE-SINGLE + OFF THEIR NEW ALBUM. IT HAS TWO NEW SONGS, AND 7 RARITIES FOR THOSE OF US WITHOUT THE INTERNET TO GET THEM FROM. HONESTLY, I THINK THE CD ALONE WAS WORTH THE $14 I PAID, BUT THRICE ARE GOOD ENOUGH TO MAKE THIS A 2 PART GIFT. THEY COULD HAVE SOLD THIS DVD IN A DVD PACKAGED CASE, AND CHARGED FULL PRICE FOR JUST THAT, BUT THRICE APPRECIATE THEIR FANS, AND THEY ARE ONE OF THE OLNY BAND THAT SHOW US THEY DO. FOR THE PEOPLE THAT BASHED THIS PRODUCT, JUST KNOW THIS WAS INTENDED FOR !!!FANS!!! ONLY. PEACE.

Thrice Just Keep On Getting Better
Review by Cory Rennison:

Thrice is a band that can always take someone by surprise. Progression has always seemed to be a key factor for what has become one of Island Records most successful bands. Incase you couldn't get enough Thrice in your life; they've released their first DVD for everyone's viewing pleasure. Even if you hate this band, fans of band documentaries are about to be blown away.

If We Could Only See Us Now isn't just a little teaser for Thrice's CDs and/or live shows. There's tons of work put into this documentary. Footage of everything from the band's first show, recording their first album, selling CDs out of the back of their cars, scoring a record deal, dealing with life on the road, and so much more can be found on this DVD. The band's personal reflection of how they got where they are today is an incredibly interesting and inspirational story. If the documentary isn't enough for you, there are a slew of extras such as Thrice music videos and live performances.

Packaged with the DVD is a bonus CD-EP which featuring 9 tracks consisting of a couple new songs, live recordings, b-sides, and previously released material from compilation albums. It serves as a nice collection of songs for diehard Thrice fans that might not have heard the material, but being as inconsistent as it is, it's not a very good introduction to people who haven't heard the band previously.

Current fans of Thrice will love every single bit of this DVD/CD package. If you could care less about Thrice, you should still borrow the DVD from a friend that might own it for the sake of seeing a band documentary so beautifully pieced together.

Not new but still great
As most rock fans know, THRICE has swept the globe over the past few years with a style that is devoid of labeling. They have created music that would fall into a plethora of categories like post hardcore, emo, metalcore and melodic metal yet their fans still come back time and again for more of this diverse music. As a part treat and part self-indulgence, THRICE release a CD/DVD package with previously unreleased music, live cuts and covers that haven't seen a pressing. Fans of THRICE should already have their hands on this and if they don't...they will soon. You won't hear anything "new" or from their upcoming album but just same, you can't be unhappy or unimpressed with either their acoustical version of "Stare at the Sun" or the audacious covers of the BEATLES "Eleanor Rigby" and insert name here "Send Me an Angel." You probably never knew the BEATLES could sound to tough. Be aware though, there are only nine songs on the CD so don't look for anything too grand. The DVD by itself is well worth your hard earned cash. It really was a comprehensive representation of who they are, what they do and it also allows you to gain insight into their lives. The live cuts on the disc are also well-rounded and moderately well produced. The long and short of is; the fans of THRICE will love it while those who haven't heard of them before (which is a small group who probably live in a cave) would benefit from picking up either "The Illusion of Safety" or "The Identity Crisis."

GOOD
This DVD/CD is very, very good. I recommend it to everyone who is into this band. But so you know, there are no "NEW" songs on this record. all of the songs were previously recorded. and none of these songs will be on their new cd. "motion isnt meaning" and "eclipse" were recorded with Artist In the Amblulance. So to the person who said they just went into the studio for a few weeks, and laid down some songs, you are wrong. all the songs on here have been out for a while, just not on CD's. Dont write False information please.

amazing
This is a great cd/dvd from an amazing band. The dvd gives you a thorough background on Thrice and insight from the band and those who know the band well. The cd is amazing as well. I was blown away by the acoustic version of "Stare at the Sun". It wasn't always one of my favorite songs, but now I look at it in a new light.

My only criticism is that I wish they had stated what venues they were playing on the videos of live performances. Oh well. ... Read more

Reviews (211)

all i can say is.... WOW
I've been an NFG fan since nothing gold came out way back in the day.... 1999 i think. the self title in 2001 was amazing! then sticks and stones, not the greatest album in my mind... too poppy for my taste. then came catalyst, which i was skeptical about at first. then i bought it and WOW!
1) intro 9/10- what a great way to start out the cd! i was debating whether it was NFG or AFI at first!
2) all downhill from here 8/10- this song was a very good single and the video is cool.
3) This disaster 10/10- my favorite song on the cd... it just sticks in your head!
4) Truth of my youth 8/10- the guitar rhythm is really cool in this song and i like the speed
5) I Don't wanna know 7/10- this song just doesn't seem to fit in with the rest. but it is a really pretty song
6) Your biggest mistake 7/10- nothing spectacular, just another song similar to the others
7) Doubt Full 9/10-i love the intro guitar part. the chorus background adds to this song, it's pretty darn good :)
8) Failure's not Flattering 8/10- a pretty good song, i like the stalls in it, but it's nothign spectacular
9) Over the head, below the knees 9/10- i didn't like this song at first, but the more i listened to it, the more i liked it, especially the high chorus parts
10) Ending in tragedy 8/10-pretty slow, but i really like the intro
11)At least i'm known for something 7/10- i didn't find this too spectacular, just average
12) I'd kill to fall asleep 8/10- neat intro, but then goes back to sounding average
13) No news is good news 5/10- i didn't like this song much at all. afterwards i said to myself, "that's it?"
14) Who am I 9/10- A very good way to end a great cd!
bonus tracks 2/10- i think they'd be funny if i were stoned... VERY VERY STONED!

New Found Glory is back...
After hearing numerous sound samples and months of patiently waiting, New Found Glory's latest cd "Catalyst" was finally released to the public. Arriving two years after the release of "Sticks and Stones", I was more than a little concerned about this release. I had been extremely disappointed with the last album, it simply didn't match up to their previous efforts. Aside from a few strong tracks, Sticks and Stones was mostly filler. Very disappointing by NFG's standards. However, Catalyst more than makes up for it.

Lyrically, NFG has never been stronger than on this album. Songs such as "Truth of my Youth" and "At Least I'm Know for Something" could get by on their lyrical strength alone. The musicianship is definitely top-notch, and the production by Neal Avron is solid as well. The band also experiments with a touch of violins and keyboards for good measure. This can sometimes be a risky proposition, but it works here and does not feel "gimmicky" or tacked-on at all. In fact, the additions only enhance the overall feel of the album.

Stand-out tracks include "All Downhill From Here" (the 1st single), "This Disaster" (my favorite), "Truth of my Youth" (awesome chorus), "I Don't Wanna Know" (future hit single), and "Failure's Not Flattering" (w/ keyboards by Reggie & the Full Effect). I only named five songs, but honestly there really isn't a throwaway track on here. There's definitely something for everyone to like.

Overall, Catalyst is a huge step forward for NFG. I've been a fan for a long time now, and this album made me an even bigger fan. It's difficult for a band to make a cd that attracts new fans without alienating the old ones, but that's exactly what NFG accomplished here. Awesome work guys.

NFG CD
first of all, the best songs on the cd are: Intro- 9/10 fast paced, good All Downhill From Here- 10/10 their single, a good one This Disaster- 9.5/10 gets stuck in ur head, but its a good thing Your Biggest Mistake- 11/10 prolly the best one on the cd i cant remember ne other good ones, i usually dont listen to the end of the cd

Losing respect...
I'm really losing respect for NFG. I've been a fan since their self-titled album, which was a fun poppy punk album. Sticks & Stones was great, and I got to see them on the Civic Tour with GC. Now, I remember NFG having fun and not trying to be all hardcore and stuff on that tour, they had some funny lines like "I got these pants at Hot Topic" and stuff like that. This year, their trying to act like their all hardcore and that all the other pop-punk bands are fake and stuff. I went to a Warped Tour show with NFG earlier this month and they were encouraging people to beat up the little kids in the moshpit- in other words they were trying to act all hardcore. I read an interview where they said "people are trying to make punk a fashion nowadays"... hmm well I remember last year the SAME BAND was acting like it was a fashion. Now that its not cool to like bands like GC, NFG is trying to be all anti-poppunk, its very funny.

A little different, but great.
This I would reccomend this CD to anyone who likes the old new found glory cd's especially Sticks and Stones. This is a little different, just harder rock but still pop punk. At first I was worried that they would try a completely new like Blink did, but im GLAD they didnt.

Intro-9/10 A really fast punk song, sounds kinda like the new sum41, it even says the F word, thats a first for NFG.

All Downhill From Here-10/10 One of the best on the CD, also the first single.

This Disaster-8/10 A little darker sounding, but a fast chorus

Truth of my Youth-9/10 Very fast and catchy, a classic NFG song

I dont Wanna Know-7/10 A slow song, but still sounds ok.

Biggest Mistake-10/10 My favorite on the cd. Rocks hard, any nfg fan will love it

Doubtfull-7/10 Not one of the better songon the CD, sounds alot like the new blink182.

Faliures Not Flattering-10/10 my second favorite, an extremely poppy song also the second single

Over your head-6/10 sorta slow and dark, not one of the better ones.

Ending in tradgedy-4/10-Worst on the CD, slow and creepy sounding it will leave you depressed, good vacals though

At least im known for something-9/10 Sounds exactly like the old NFG, which is good.

Id kill to fall asleep-9/10 typical song for the CD, lyrics are great, talks aobut wen u cant fall asleep.

No News is good news-8/10 beat, but talks about how the news is always negative, just not a good topic. They got ragged on hard for putting it on the rock against bush cd.

Who am I-9/10 sounds like story so far, the 2 hidden tracks at the end are dumb and not funny if they are supposed to be.

Overall a great CD, i reccomend it to anyone who likes NFG. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Starting life as the most competent Misfits tribute band to not actually play Misfits songs, San Francisco Bay Area punks A.F.I. have not only discovered how to write their own snarling melodies, but have developed the confidence to play them without a cloak. Sing the Sorrow marks the band’s first major-label release and the difference from their indie albums is in the details: songs freely shift gears and tempos, singer Davey Havoc flexes his pristine vocal abilities by breaking into the occasional falsetto, and sugary tracks like "The Leaving Song" and "The Great Disappointment" now take a place next to more standard nuclear-charged mosh-pit fare like "Bleed Black" and "Dancing Through Sunday." Longtime fans might take it like a kick to the head, but this band is clearly moving toward bigger things. --Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Reviews (962)

Sing the Sorrow
After two years of anticipation, AFI fans have gotten what they've been so dedicatedly waiting for. Sing the Sorrow is AFI's first album released on DreamWorks Records and will never be forgotten; simply because of the elegance portrayed throughout the entire CD.
AFI starts the CD off with a brilliant chant, "Miseria Cantare (The Beginning)", causing older fans to reminisce on the legendary, "through our bleeding, we are one" hymn. Then, soothingly, "The Leaving Song Pt.2" begins with Jade's hypnotic guitar riff. Davey even speaks in Spanish, leading the song to sound even more amazing. Tracks like, "Bleed Black", "Girls Not Grey", "Paper Airplanes (Makeshift Wings)" and "This Celluloid Dream" are indeed very catchy. I'd be lying if I said I didn't dance as these songs progressed into further bliss. Not only has Davey's lyrics gotten darker and more mysterious, he's been so beautifully yelling in fast paced songs such as, "Dancing Through Sundays" and "Death of Seasons". But fortunately, AFI hasn't left out the greatness of melody. "Silver and Cold", and "The Great Disappointment" remind me that AFI is truly one of the most talented bands ever, that brings purity into every form of art they pursue. Together, the four guys convey genuine melodic vibes into the album. Not to mention, the post-"Morning Star" with "The Leaving Song". And as if that isn't enough, AFI poetically ends the album with the immaculate "This Time Imperfect" -- which honestly leaves me infatuated with the band more than ever.
This is without a doubt, the album of 2003! Sing the Sorrow has it all; the yelling, the darkened lyrics, to-die-for bass lines, piercing drum beats, unique guitar riffs, the fast techno clip in "Death of Seasons" and a lot more. AFI fans won't be disappointed with this album at all!

Just when you thought they reached their peek...
I've been an avid AFI fan for many years now and I must say these guys seemed to reach their peek with the previous two albums, "Black Sails in the Sunset" and "The Art of Drowning." I also heard this album would be "poppy" and their big "sell-out" CD. With all do respects I disagree with these two accusations.

The CD opens up with "Miseria Cantare - The Beginning" and I was totally blown away from the start. The vocals and the sound set off the goth vibe that really sets up the whole CD. Track by track each song has its very own unique story and sound. A few of my personal favorites that I'd advise everyone to hear are "Silver and Cold," "Death of Seasons," "The Great Disappointment," "This Celluloid Dream," and finally "...but home is nowhere," which is an amasing final track to the CD.

I agree they've changed their style slightly from HC punk, but every band goes through what they have to to find their own sound and style...and I believe AFI has reached that!

what happen man?
Afi used to be one of the most kick ass bands ever, and this this cd came out. When I listened to it, I noticed the HUGE change how what they once were, is far from gone. I admit 1 or 2 songs are close to their roots. But the others are just Davey Whining about his problems. Afi has become a serious trend everwhere you go. Afi shirts and black Hi Tops, thats the cool thing for all the pousers man. At first this cd stayed nutral, then the radio and Mtv released Girls not Grey and what happens????? "OMg I so love Afi, like oh my god, come on girls I hear theres a sell on omg afi things. Lets go buy it, then everyone will think we are punk and goth". 2nd reason: the whining. Comme on Davey what happen to your lyrics that set who this band was like "I wanna mohawk, but mom wont let me get one"... thats AFI..now its all muchey gushey, silver and cold. The reason I gave it 3 stars is because its not the Afi we all know and love, but a new trend in america, why man, whyy!?

sing the joy
this album is DEPRESSING. that is about all i need to say. there isn't a more sad, desolate, and derelict feeling album i have heard of. forget all that emo crap you've been listening to, A.F.I. sticks to their punk reputation, building on what is around, and still manages to bring a kick ass album about. this album is no joke, it is emotionally tormenting. the lyrics are crazy sad, something of edgar allen poe. the music is nicely organized, with no errors, no slips, nothing to make you bored. sure, you'd want to skank to this album, but it doubles as a crying album. i recommend you buy it, no questions asked.

GREATEST CD EVER
this is the greatest cd i have ever gotten.....AFI is one of the greatest things out there....the lyrics are powerful, dark and melodic....anyone who loves morbid melodic music will love AFI's Sing the Sorrow ... Read more

Amazon.com

Inevitably labeled "pop punk," Simple Plan's sophomore album finds the Montreal quintet settling in as a straight-ahead rock band. Yes, lyrically, their concerns remain grounded in the adolescent petulance and alienation of classic punk. They're "the ones you love to hate." "You don't know what it's like to be me," they insist. "We're the kids that you pushed away," they huff. Musically, however, the follow-up to 2002's popular No Pads, No Helmets…Just Balls finds the band moving toward a strain of radio-friendly rock that owes less and less to the punk canon. Opener (and album highlight) "Shut Up!" "Me Against the World," and "Perfect World" boast sweeping choruses and Pierre Bouvier's spit-in-your-eye vocals. But strings creep into "Welcome to My Life" and the closer, "Untitled," is a heart-on-his-sleeve piano lament that owes more to Night Ranger than the Ramones. This one will appeal to fans who prefer the "pop" side of the "pop punk" equation. --Steven Stolder ... Read more