Amazon.com

Columbia Records rushed this compilation of patriotic and inspirational favorites into production in the wake of the September 11, 2001, attacks. The title song is a new version by Celine Dion similar to the performance she gave on the Tribute to Heroes telethon, while John Mellencamp's "Peaceful World" is included in an alternate, acoustic treatment. Each listener may find his or her own favorites, but few will be left unmoved by a selection that also includes Bruce Springsteen's "Land of Hope and Dreams," Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge over Troubled Water," and renderings of "America the Beautiful," "This Land Is Your Land," and "Amazing Grace" by, respectively, Frank Sinatra, Pete Seeger, and Tramaine Hawkins. Bill Withers's "Lean on Me" closes the disc on a plainspoken note that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of rescuers and other Americans since the tragedies. A back-cover note promises that a "substantial portion of the proceeds received by Sony Music [Columbia's parent company] from sales of this album will be donated to the Twin Towers Fund." --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (58)

Beautifully poignant collection for these times
This may be the most pointless review that could possibly be done at this time, but it is worth a mention anyway. If you are a true American with any heart at all, then you have to be affected by this collection of songs.

I am no fan of artists like Celine Dion and Mariah Carey, but hearing Celine's cover of "God Bless America" and Mariah's hit from several years back "Hero" is affecting in this context. Bruce Springsteen's 9-minute live version of "Land Of Hope and Dreams" is also about perfect here. "Amazing Grace" is beautfully done, as is "The Star Spangled Banner". You also have to love the inclusion of such classics as "Blowin' In The Wind" and "Lean On Me" as part of the whole theme presented here.

My personal favorite--and the biggest reason I bought this collection--is the inclusion of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The U.S.A." Hearing that song at various points in the days after the September 11 tragedies nearly brought me to tears each time, and I woke up with the song in my head for a couple of weeks straight during that time. This is what it is all about in the spirit of patriotism.

The reviewer who have this collection one star and called it a "cash in" must be one cold and clueless person. Never mind the emotions the content of this collection brings; the proceeds go to the Twin Tower Funds! For any human being with a heart and patriotic spirit, this collection will make your day. An absolute must-have during these most trying times we are now in.

Very Powerful, Very Moving...
Although most songs on this CD were first recorded and released by these artists long ago, to hear them in the order on which they appear really stirs up the emotions. The CD begins with the unforgettable version of "God Bless America" as sung by Celine Dion in the way that only she can sing, and continues with the haunting "Land of Hope and Dreams" by Bruce Springsteen. I must say that the tears really started welling up during the listening of "America the Beautiful" by the late great Frank Sinatra, who was (and continues to be) one of our greatest national treasures. I never realized how much of one he was until hearing him on this CD.

I never sang along to the stirring chorus of "God Bless The U.S.A." by Lee Greenwood until now. To hear Mahalia Jackson's voice (on "My Country 'Tis Of Thee") alone is probably worth the purchase of this CD. (Speaking of national treasures, she also was one of our greatest.) The wan but quietly inspiring "Lean On Me" by Bill Withers is the right song that ends this collection of American artistry, which pays tribute to the nation from which these artists sprung. Artists who all came from such widely different backgrounds, with such widely differing political views (try to imagine Pete Seeger and Lee Greenwood at the same political event--highly unlikely), but they knew what united them all: each and every artist on this CD was proud to be an American.

So am I.

A Good Americana Compilation
This compilation was made soon after the 9/11 in a wake of patriotic feelings among Americans. It comprises songs of different genres, from rock ballads ("Peaceful World" by John Mellencamp, "Lean on Me" by Bill Withers) to ballads ("Bridge over Troubled Water" by Simon&Garfunkel), to big Americana hits ("God Bless America" by Celine Dion, "America the Beautiful" by Frank Sinatra, "This Land Is Your Land" by Pete Seeger, "We Shall Overcome" by Mahalia Jackson) to the National Anthem "The Star Spangled Banner" by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, plus "Hero" by Mariah Carey, "There's a Hero" by Billy Gilman, and a few more.

This CD is a good compilation of songs that may lift the spirits of the nation, as well as some truly inspirational melodies. Performances by Tramaine Hawkins ("Amazing Grace"), Billy Gilman, Celine Dion, Simon&Garfunkel, Bill Withers are the gems of this CD. The same can be said about the National Anthem, though you might find some acappella version (by Lee Ann Rimes, for example) not less appealing.

Personally I bought this CD because of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA". But this turned out to be the worst track. It is probably some remix. Almost nothing is left from the original version, neither its marching touch, nor the integrity that left your skin covered with goosebumps, inspired you and made you realise the true spirit of American patriotism. The version from this CD is more on the jazz, relaxed side, which is killing for such a song.

On the whole, this CD deserves your attention if you need a compilation of Americana music, or at least a flavour of it.

A great CD, powerful and moving
True to its title the music CD God Bless America is a masterful tribute to America. This collection of patriotic music includes many soul-stirring songs; I especially like the selections by Lee Greenwood, Frank Sinatra, and Bill Withers. All of the songs on this CD are powerful and will remind you how great this country truly is.

God Bless America is great for working, driving, or listening to all by itself. I guarantee that you will not regret purchasing this collection of American songs. This CD draws together an immense pool of talent and is extraordinarily successful at illustrating the greatest nation in the world.

Moving Patriotic tribute!!!
Well done! Loved Celine Dion's version of God Bless America in tribute for her adopted county. Pete Seeger's This land is your land is equally great. Has the beloved Lee Greenwood's God Bless the USA! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Donnie McClurkin's road to success is filled with the fragrance of God's blessing. With a 1996 debut that went gold, a single on the Prince of Egypt soundtrack, an appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show, and performances for Presidents Bush and Clinton, the list of McClurkin's awards and recognition goes on and on. His second solo release, Live in London and More..., is destined to be another stellar event in McClurkin's career. This live recording, performed in a packed Fairfield hall in London, is a cross between worship, preaching, and jubilation --a complete representation of McClurkin's passions. From the elated opener, "That's What I Believe," to the intimate anthems in "We Fall Down," McClurkin leads the audience through a journey that is filled with inspiration and passion. Standing firmly on the belief that only a heavenly blessing could make all of this happen, McClurkin keeps the attention firmly fixed on God throughout the entire show. --Israel Button ... Read more

Reviews (92)

EXCELLENT!!!!!!
I love this Cd because there is something on it for everyone. If you needed reminiding of God's promises "That's What I Believe", "Just for Me" are for you. If you need encouragement and think, that's it, God couldn't possibly forgive me, "We Fall Down", "Great Is Your Mercy" will remind you of God's Love and Mercy. If you want to dance and praise God, the "Caribbean Medley" will bless your heart.

Excellence is what I always expect from Donnie McClurkin and I was not disappointed me. The vocals on "Great Is Your Mercy" are OUTSTANDING!!! Wether it be a song he wrote or someone else's, once Donnie sangs the song its his.

This live CD reminds me of some of Donnie's earlier work with the New York Restoration Choir on the "Speak to my Heart" album. It sounds like a good time was had by all, especially the audience.

This CD will make you sing, dance, cry and laugh with the Lord.

GET IT TODAY!!!!

Donnie Does It Again...
Rarely does an artist, particularly gospel, follow-up a smash hit first CD with one that's even stronger. Well, Pastor Donnie McClurkin has done it...and Donnie did it hard! I've been waiting for this one to drop since I first heard what is destined to be the first gospel classic of the new millenium, WE FALL DOWN. Of course, Donnie doesn't dissappoint with anointed worship songs like JUST FOR ME and I'LL TRUST YOU, LORD, and oh man, you would not want to forget about GREAT IS YOUR MERCY. If these songs can't get you beyond "the veil," you just don't want to go! But then, there's also awsome praise songs like THAT'S WHAT I BELIVE and HAIL JESUS. And you'll even have fun with his CARIBBEAN MEDLEY. Pastor McClurkin, I just want to thank you for your ministry on WE FALL DOWN. God told me to use that song in a bible class I taught on destroying yokes and strongholds; the song is so powerful it took us so high that the people did not want to go home! This CD can't help but bless your socks off...that's what I believe!!!

EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT AND MIGHT I SAY EXCELLENT
this is a MUST HAVE compact disc for every household, you WILL INDEED be BLESSED when you hear the WORDS, MUSIC and VOICES of this album.I was WOWED from the begining to the end, its just great, great , great.MY favourite is THATS WHAT I BELIEVE, its just WONDERFUL as i can indentify with it.I thank the lord for using ELDER DONNIE MCCLURKIN to write these song, i was TRULY blessed by this album i keep listening to it over and over again.The lord is PROUD of you DONNIE, keep on keeping it on, now saints go out and buy this COMPACT DISC you wont be sorry.

this Set truly Moved me
Donnie Mcclurkin is truly a Gifted Man.His Voice just reaches so many heights here&He brings so much Soul&Depth to the Live aspect of recording.His Vocals&the whole overall vibe is felt deeply here.a Very Moving Set.

Donnie McClurkin
I loved this album. I have so many wonderful memories with it.
The songs are so beautiful. Some of them made me cry. Like the song,"We Fall Down". I loved this song so much I taught myself to play it on my trumpet. That's the best track on this album.
Thank You Donnie for making this record. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Solid Gospel
From a very funny movie, comes some wonderful gospel. Perfect for when you're in the mood for such music.

Interesting Integration of Score to Image
The soundtrack to THE LADYKILLERS is a somewhat unique approach to scoring this dark seriously comedic quirky film. The numerous vocal parts of the score are incorporated into the film and serve as an integral part of the storytelling. The duality of the music as background and functionality of the film's story is one of the highlights of the movie. After hearing the soundtrack I am know seeing the film in a whole new light. The music actually seemed like a detriment to the film. Until the story moved into its third act did it become apparent what the score was intent on accomplishing. If you see the film you should enjoy this soundtrack.

Right On
It's obvious from the spiteful review by t4t from NYC that he/she didn't see or watch the movie. The contention that the music on the CD wasn't in the movie is simply wrong. There WERE three songs on the CD that weren't in the movie, but the rest of the tunes were there. Granted, the soundtrack may not have incorporated the entire song, but that's the case on virtually all soundtrack albums. T-Bone Burnett's selection of great gospel songs that illuminate the action on the screen is as flawless as his choices for "O Brother, Where Art Thou?".

This is an excellent soundtrack album and those who enjoyed the music in the movie will enjoy the expanded versions included here.

Fabulous
I left the theater vowing to get the soundtrack, because it's one of the best I've ever heard. And this is the first movie soundtrack I've ever wanted! The music was integral to my enjoyment of the film, and truly helped carry along the spirit of the movie from beginning to end. Anyone who loves old-time gospel music will enjoy this spirited sountrack.

Ladykillers
This movie wasn't that great but the soundtrack was excellent. The instrumental at the end of the film as it faded out was very "quite, yet not quite". It gave me a kind of feeling that really invoked some meaningful thought. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

She Quickly Became One Favorite Artist
I first heard her music was during a movie dealing with the End Times. After the movie, she sang Come Quickly Lord Jesus I went to the nearest store and bought her CD "God". And as they say, the rest is history. Her latest CD The Best Of Rebecca St James had all my favorite songs. Psalms 139, Wait For Me and A Love Song have been added to my favorite songs. She is a must see in concert.

What a great vocalist
I never heard of Rebecca St. James until I turned on a radio station, Spirit 90.5 (Florida station) a few weeks ago and heard the song "Thank You". It was such a good song. I decided to buy her "Best Of" album which has this song and could not believe what a great album this was. All the songs are good and she really has a great voice. Rebecca St. James and Zoegirl are my two favorite artists in Christian music right now. You won't go wrong if you buy this CD. I love it. **5 STARS**

Great CD
I guess my only problems was trying to figure out which song was which, since the track listing appears to be off. The actual tracklist order is as follows:
1. I Thank You
2. Expressions of Your Love
3. God
4. Pray
5. Mirror
6. Wait For Me
7. Yes, I Believe in God
8. Song of Love
9. Speak To Me
10. Here I Am
11. Stand
12. Reborn
13. Lamb of God
14. Go and Sin No More
15. Until Your Love Broke Through
16. A Cradle Prayer
17. Breathe
18. Psalm 139

She's All That And A Bag Of Potato Chips!
Rebecca St. James delivers every time. Would this CD be any different? Of course not. She, and her band, have the ability to create hit after hit; this brings the best of the best to one CD. And it is a great CD at that.

Not sure if it is just my CD, but none of the songs match up with the song list on the back of the CD. But you know what, I don't even care about that. I wouldn't care if the CD didn't even come with a case. It rocks, and that's all that counts.

There are so many good songs, praising our Lord and Savior, that I can't pick my favorite. Rebecca St. James is one of the few Christian artist I have never seen in concert. But I do have all of her CDs and look forward to one day telling her how beautiful her music is. I would also like to thank her in person for creating music that teaches my children to live a clean, positive life.

Look at the song list for this CD. And when you're done doing that, click that BUY button. You'll love this CD. Yep, I promise.

See ya next review.
www.therunninggirl.com

WOW, what a great CD!
These hits by Rebecca St. James just take your breath away with her stunning vocals and awesome messages. This cd is truly the best of all of her work. Go buy this cd. you won't regret it! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The John Michael Talbot Collection focuses on his solo work for the Sparrow record label. These widely variant songs are culled from The Lord's Supper, half of the double-disc Mass in D Minor, throughto 1990's quietly contemplative The Hiding Place. There are pieces performed in the folk-blues idiom, symphonic and/or choral arrangements, as well as dips into Celtic music, Renaissance-inspired harmonies, ballet suites, and Catholic worship songs. Despite these seemingly disparate styles, almost all are given Talbot's distinctively melodious vocal treatment and nimble picking whether it be classical, rootsy, or a custom blend thereof. There are few others who so thoroughly create the space for reverence and contemplation. And as with his work with brother Terry, the music, much based on biblical text, complex structure, and theory, is heads and shoulders above even today's most winning Christian pop. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Talbot is an exceptional artist
John Michael Talbot began is career in the sixties as a country-rock artist, playing and touring with industry giants. Because of a profound conversion experience, he set out on his own path of writing and singing songs expressing his journey of faith in the Franciscan tradition of the Catholic Church. Over the past twenty-five years, Talbot has recorded an unbelievably broad range of Christian music encompassing many styles, from solo voice and guitar, to orchestra and choir. He has put to music the classic prayers and liturgy of the church, as well as written original material in both acoustic and clasical styles, with a depth of theological and musical integrity. In contemporary Christian music, where glitz and glamor have become an unfortunate by-product, Talbot rises above the commercialization by singing songs, and living a life of humility and service. His songs have been a powerful influence on me and my spiritual journey. I have sung and played his songs in my United Methodist congregation, at church camps, and in my own spiritual retreats. More than anything else, his beautiful music and his life are a witness to the power and presence of Christ. These discs are a collection of his music from across the years. I strongly recommend them to everyone.

Wonderful, prayerful, Christian music
John Michael does more than sing an excellent song, he prays his songs. The music has power. I recommed it most highly to anyone interested in good, solid, scriptural Christian music.

Soothing Sounds to Satisfy the Soul
Peaceful, Serene, Poignant and Beautiful. I have listened to this collection repeatedly and find it to be a worshipful experience. There is an intangible simplicity and humility that come through. For the busy mind, the troubled heart, the wounded soul, here is food and drink. Taste and see!

Too much Hollywood music a la Ben-Hur
The point is not whether Michael Talbot is a talented singer and devoted Christian. He is certainly both. The point is: is this particular cd good or not? From my point of view it is a rather mediocre album. I feel that Michael Talbot is at his best when playing the guitar with minimal orchestral accompaniment like in his acclaimed "Come to the Quiet". Unfortunately, what you will find on this cd is a medley of such delightful songs with more ambitious orchestral compositions which are simply terrible and smack of Hollywoodian film music a la Ben-Hur or The Ten Commandments.

Heavenly
When I die and go to heaven I expect the music to sound just like John Michael Talbot's ... Read more

Reviews (2)

wonderful songs!
i like listening to the children'songs!
like the children'songs in china they are so wonderful and give you a pure world!
though i am 20,but after hearing so many ROCK ones,i prefer to this cd to let me easy!

lacking the song I wanted
I remembered a song that my mother taught me and my brothers when we were little. I so wanted to find it and teach it to my little granddaughter. The name of the song was Let the sunshine in. I searched and searched and finally saw it on this CD. I was so excited I ordered it immediately along with two other cd's. To my disappointment when I got the cd the only song that was changed on the cd was song number 14 to be repeated as number 29. It was changed to the song twelve deciples. Oh man, I was disappointed, disappointed, disappointed. Now where can I find the song. I wonder why they changed the only song on the whole cd. It was misrepresented. Can anyone help me find the song "Let the Sunshine In?" ... Read more

Reviews (124)

RELIENT K ROCKS LIKE A GOOSE!!
HEY GUYS!! what is up?! dude,i got this cd the day it came out, and i am a pretty big fan of them, but i totally didn't really like they're first cd, it was kinda boring, but this cd is awesome. They've gotten a lot better musically, heading a lot more into the punk rock scene, and they DO IT AWESOMELY!! THey picked up a new drummer since they're last cd, dave douglas, and they have changed they're sound, and now pretty much there's no one else like them, punk rock with a lot of melody. "SADIE HAWKINS DANCE" is the catchiest song on the cd, rockin away, and then "pressing on" and "my way or the highway" aren't far behind for the catchiest. Overall, i listen to like new found glory, superstar, and any good christian punk, or clean good fun secular, which there isn't very much of, But relient k really hits hard with the lyrics, THEY ROK like a goose. So overall the cd rocks harder, more punk, better melodies and catchier stuff, IT ROCKS, and is definately one of the best punk or christian cd's out.......SO BUY IT!! relient k rocks.......AND BUY THIS!! no matter what, even if you don't like music, this will make you like it, U ROK,seya later

It's a good thing!
I bought this cd right after seeing them in concert on the electric youth tour. i already had the self titled cd but the songs in concert were mostly off of this cd. i figured "hey i really like those songs, i need to get this" i've had it for about 7 months now and i still listen to it constantly. here is the breakdown:

1: Kick-Off.....the great intro to a great cd..4 out of 5
2: Pressing On......the catchy tune will have you singing it for days and the rock driven guitar is great.......4 out of 5
3: Sadie Hawkins Dance.......One of the reasons I even thought about buying this cd, i love the oh, oh, oh!......5 out of 5
4: Down in Flames......great song all around, nothing really sticks out about it though......4 out of 5
5: Maybe Its Maybeline.....another expected refernece to name brand or pop culture, it was needed though, especially in this great song.....4 out of 5
6: Breakdown.....joke about the relient k car turned strong message....5 out of 5
7: Those Words Are Not Enough.....i had never heard this song before i bought the cd but the heartfelt lyrics and good tune made this song quickly become one of my favorites....5 out of 5
8: For the Moments I feel Faint....by far the best song on the album, once again i'd never heard this song, but i loved this song so much, i still do! a great run at a beautiful accoustic song and matt thiessen's vocals ring gorgeously in this song.....5 out of 5
9: I'm Lion-O....my mom makes fun of this song all the time because we have no earthly idea what in the heck it means, but hey! it's still a great song!.....5 out of 5
10: What Have You Been Doing Lately?.....How true is this song? Watching our friends fall from God. A good song all together and i love the guy in the background(ri li!)....5 out of 5
11: May the Horse be With You....funny funny song! very catchy as well!........5 out of 5
12: My Way or the Highway: Good lyrics but nothing really sticks out about the song but it is still good!....4 out of 5
13: The Rest Is Up to You: wonderful lyrics, one of the best written songs on the album i believe, very clever and yet good message.....5 out of 5
14: Failure to Excommunicate....I don't know how many time i just skipped over this song when i listened to the album but one day i just listened to it and know it is my second favorite track! i love it! it's differnet in the way it sounds a little darker than the other tracks....5 out of 5
15: Less Is More...Good, Good, Good, Good, Bravo! to relient k for this amazing piano driven songs that has wonderful bgv's and a very meaningful message!....5 out of 5
Bonus at the end of Less is More.....Skittles and Combos is hilarious and a little hard to understand so turn it up and laugh your head off!

well i hope that this helped and i highly recommend this album no matter what type of music you like. and weather you you think this is punk or not, it's not important, it is just good music!

Not the greatest...but that's not what gets me riled...
Somehow I think these guys don't take themselves as seriously as so many of the reviewers want them to. After all, they covered the theme to Charles in Charge on their first album. All-in-all its harmless, infectious bubblegum pseudo-punk, but somedays that's what you want to hear.

But what really bugs me is the fact that kids are reviewing this album who are too you to realize that "I'm Lion-O" is about the Thundercats! I can't even believe the guys in the nad are old enough to remember Thundercats, but still, props for the pop culture flashback.

I guess I didn't know how bad music could get
There are many bad bands out there today that I can only laugh at in pity (Linkin Park, Smile Empty Soul, Trapt, Static-X, the list goes on). However, nothing prepared me for what I heard a couple days ago. I was innocently surfing the web and letting my media player play all the random crap that was in there when I heard the worst, vomit-inducing vocals and teen-bopper-style guitar work to ever pass through my ears. I instantly turned down the volume, checked to see if anyone was around, and let out a massive yell of frustration. I returned to my computer to check out what band was responsible for this sound equal to a three-year old banging pots against a metal surface (which I've heard many times before). My database said I was listening to Relient K's "Pressing On". I checked my brother's room, and sure enough, I found this CD. I listened to it just to find out how bad it could get. Sure enough, Relient K managed to sink lower than I thought any band could go in the talent department. This is completely atrocious; they make Switchfoot (another lame Christian band) look like gods (hell, they even make Likin Park look like.....well, semi-talented, anyway).

A Note to Amazon: Please allow a zero star rating!! I beg of you; it feels like digging nails into a chalkboard to give these guys even one star!

Not their best...
This CD is definitly not their best. Personally, I think their best was definatley the third CD they made. But, this IS Relient K, and I personally like ALL their music. So, if you like songs about horses and lions, this IS your CD. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Amazing CD!
1. Pray - I like this song. I believe in prayer and what's better than a song about it! I also like the recitation of the Lord's Prayer in the Bridge! I love the Choir too! Great song! (10/10)

2. Heaven on Earth - I like this song too. It starts off talking about a girl who in the next sentence you find is Zschech. Very cool lyrics. "My greatest dream, It has come true, just to be loved by You" I LOVE THAT! (10/10)

3. Faithful - I like this song but not as much as the 2 previous ones. I don't know what it is but something just makes it kind of weak. I like the lyrics, though. (9/10)

4. Beautiful Saviour - I would have given this song 9 out of 10 had it not been for the choir. I love the choir's part. And after that Zschech's part is a lot better. So the first part of the song is kind of dragged out but it gets better. I really like this song. (10/10)

5. Everything About You - "I love everything about" this song! Great melody and song stucture. This song is about Zschech's husband. This is so beautiful. Couple's play this song for each other! (10/10)

6. Promise - Some words in this song are kind of hard to make out at first. So I kinda get sick of listening fast. (8/10)

7. Irresistible - I was very excited to hear this song for the first time because the live version was my favorite Zschech song. Well this is of course different. It's a different kind of feel. The choir's part is very weak. (9/10)

8. Kiss of Heaven - Well I guess we see why the title of the CD is Kiss of Heaven. This is definately my favorite song on the CD. (20/10)

9. Everlasting - Good song. Beautifully written. Excelent Music. Wonderful vocals. Really good song to be able to follow up "Kiss of Heaven". (15/10)

10. Shout to the Lord - Well here it is. The song that changed Zschech's life. The song that made me a fan. Yet it's just like "Irresistible", IT'S NOT THE LIVE VERSION THAT I'M USED TO! But it's a good version I like it! Beautiful Choir! (10/10)

11. Dreams - Another Beautiful Song. Touching words. I love this song. Definately a winner! (15/10)

12. Wonderful You - Kind of weak but I like it. Good picturesque lyrics. (9/10)

13. Thankful - I love the Chorus. Great music. I think that this is one of the powerful songs! (15/10)

14. Walk On - I've never listened to any of U2's music so I can't compare the two songs. I love how the male voice is right behind Zschech's. Very awesome. I like it! (10/10)

And now to sum it up. As you can tell, I love this CD. I love just about everything about this CD. Darlene Zschech is one of the most awesome worship leaders in the world. This is an awesome CD! It's one of my personal favorites and I think that if you give it a listen ... you'll have the same opinion.

Thank you, Darlene Zschech!
I can't understand why KISS OF HEAVEN isn't the #1 Christian cd - maybe it will be soon. It is a most generous selection of great songs from one of the best song writers of our time and what a voice! She has been mightily used by the Lord to help us worship Him. The first time I listened to Kiss of Heaven, there wasn't one song I didn't like, but "Heaven on Earth" and "Dreams" are my favorites. I have trouble finding Christian music I like, but Darlene Zschech never disappoints!

Darlene, is that you?
I have been stirred by Darlene's music for at least 8 years, but when I first heard this collection I wasn't sure it was her. Then I realized that it was her talent and versatility showing through. The real test of a great album is if you are still listening 10 or 20 years from now, which I feel is true of this one. She even does a good job on Bono! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Mixing new versions of old songs with originals isn't a unique concept when it comes to constructing movie music, but it's seldom been done as effectively as on this soundtrack from the 2005 HBO film Lacakawanna Blues. Macy Gray, Robert Bradley, and perhaps most surprisingly, Mos Def--all of whom have parts in the film--contribute updated material which ranges from the jump blues of Mos Def's "Caledonia" to Bradley's sizzling low-down covers of Elmore James's "One Dime Blues" and Floyd Jones's grinding"Dark Road." Young old-school vocalist Ricky Fanté finds a sunny groove on Magic Sam's "That's All I Need," and the Blind Boys of Alabama, the go-to group for gospel, bring the church on a stunning "Faith and Grace."

The album's success lies in the way the predominantly obscure songs are sequenced. The spare but lovely Piedmont acoustic picking of Etta Baker's "One Dime Blues," Jimmy Scott's yearning, string-drenched ballad "If I Ever Lost You," and J.J. Jackson's Impressions' styled, finger-popping "But It's Alright" have little in common, yet comfortably share space with each other and the newly recorded tunes. This makes for a engaging collection of music that stands on its own as a compelling listening experience, even for those who haven't seen the movie that inspired it. --Hal Horowitz ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fantastic Album for R&B Fans and Newbies alike
This little soundtrack, compiled lovingly, also doubles as a fantastic sampler of R&B music.So many styles introduced here:from the Acoustic Piedmont, to the Chicago Electric Blues, to the big band sound of the Jump Blues, to a cappella Gospel and on and on.Listen to this CD a few times and you will have a PhD in Bluesicology.More importantly, these songs haven't already appeared on 100 other soundtracks or compilations, so it's perfect for old and new R&B fans alike.Some of the songs here are original recordings and some were made for the HBO movie (Mos Def is the surprise here;listening to him tear into the Jump Blues songs, you know he would have been a recording star in any age).

After this CD excites your ears, you are ready to check out a variety of other CDs (all available on Amazon):Big Joe Turner (THE VERY BEST OF BIG JOE TURNER which also contains his version of "Caldonia"), anything by Louis Jordan for the master of Jump Blues (especially his BEST OF CD), T-Bone Walker who Chuck Berry claims was a major influence on his guitar playing (Walker's COMPLETE IMPERIAL RECORDINGS 2-CD is currently a steal), Cephas & Wiggins (for the new masters of Piedmont style pickin') and, of course, Ray Charles' Atlantic recordings.

IF YOU LOVE THE BLUES.......................
THIS ONE'S FOR YOU.....BLUESY BUT ENJOYABLE SOUNDTRACK TO THE MOVIE OF THE SAME NAME WHICH WAS EQUALLY ENJOYABLE....STANDOUTS INCLUDE "BUT IT'S ALRIGHT" BY J.J. JACKSON, "THAT'S ALL I NEED" BY RICKY FANTE AND THE INCREDIBLE "SOMETHIN INSIDE ME" BY ROBERT BRADLEY. "FAITH & GRACE" BY THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA IS MEMORABLE...POET/RAPPER/ACTOR/SINGER MOS DEF DELIVERS 2 SIZZLING TRACKS "CALDONIA" AND THE TANTILIZINGLY HOT! "DESTINATION LOVE"...GET THE BLUES...LACKAWANNA BLUES! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Heart in Motion is the 1991 album that broke Amy Grant into the mainstream pop-music charts, yielding five top 20 singles and two No. 1 hits ("Baby Baby" and "Every Heartbeat"). But while the release is filled with upbeat beboppin' singles, it also displays a more serious side and a depth of songwriting ability from Christian music's first lady. The urgent "Ask Me" introduces you to a sexually abused girl who miraculously grips tightly to her faith while struggling through a difficult history, while "I Will Remember You" and "How Can We See That Far" are haunting ballads dripping with echo-laden guitars. Indeed, Grant showcases a wide variety of sounds and flavors on this, her multiplatinum introduction to the secular music world. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (54)

Amy's Best Release (Ever).
When I was barely getting into music, Amy Grant was probably the first singer that I heard. I remember back in the early 90s, falling in love with "Baby Baby" and "Good For Me". For Amy's 1991 release, she exploded onto the Billboard charts, scoring 5 Top Twenty songs - "Baby Baby", "Every Heartbeat", "That's What Love Is For", "Good For Me", and "I Will Remember You". I believe it was around 1992 or 1993 when I had first seen and heart Amy Grant. I loved tuning into VH1 to see her music videos, and I would even stay up for hours just to see all of them played on an old VH1 show called "A to Z." My absolute favorite song on Heart In Motion is "Baby Baby" - I bet pretty much everyone has heard this song. It's still on today after 10 years. For a Christian singer, Amy Grant sure did hit the mainstream with her irresistible songs. Even though they were pop songs, she still showed she was a true Christian with the songs "Ask Me" and "Hope Set High".

Although she may have been on the Pop side for a few more albums, she was able to show that she could crossover music genres and become a major hit. Heart In Motion is a great collection of songs. With its upbeat rhythms, its positive messages, and its ballads, it's a winner.

Still Sounds Good After All These Years!
This is another one of my favorite CD's that's on my top must-have CD collection of 'Pop' recording artists. This was the album that allowed Amy Grant to "officially cross over the bridge" to the main-stream "secular" market, and it worked! Most of these songs can be taken as a love song between you and someone you love or the love you feel for your "Higher Power", and it works! It brings to mind of another pop artist, Michael Poss, who released a 1996 CD entitled "I Can Feel You In My Heart". Both of these artists write in the same genre/style. My favorite songs on Amy's CD are "Galieo", "That's What Love Is For", and "Hope Set High". Amy Grant has come a long way, and I hope she continues to write more songs in this particular musical style of Pop. A must have CD for die-hard Amy Grant fans!

Cool
GREAT CD FOR A SUMMER PARTY OR ROAD TRIP.

WWW.STREETALLIANCE.COM TO FIND OUT HOW TO PROMOTE CHRISTIAN ARTISTS.

Well..
I think the fact that Amy Grant's "Heart in Motion" and Nirvana's "Nevermind" were released at roughly the same time, both selling upwards of some odd-million copies, shows the amazing dynamics of the Human psyche... Just an interesting contrast to observe.

I was about 8 years old when this CD came out, and somehow I got my hands on it (tape, at the time). What can I say? I played it over and over. Note, I'm a male. It didn't matter. It was catchy stuff. It was pop that you could sing along with. It was, in short, feel-good music that didn't yearn for the profound meaning in relation to the sort of negative angst that was ever-growing. Of course, one could very easily describe it as shallow when compared to other music at the time period, but I think that's missing the point entirely; that music (most certainly) has its place, but so does this.

Bottom line, this album is filled with poppy tunes that could have become hits. Most the songs possess an innocence that is very likeable and the music itself, with its catchy hooks and eletronic backings, is positive and almost always maintains a fast momentum. Amy Grant's got a hip yet sincere voice that goes well with the instrumentation, and the result is pretty engaging, honestly. There are many songs that rank for the album's best, so I won't decide. Interestingly, I remember back in the summer of 1992, waiting ever-so anxiously for the tape to reach "I Will Remember You", which, along with "That's What Love is For", probably hit my inner-child the most. :)

It's hard to say how much of this truly serves as nostalgia for me, but in all truthfulness I think it's actually going to appeal to most anybody to listens to it. Of course, I mean anybody who goes in without biases. It's just a wholly pleasant album.

Heart In Motion
Heart in Motion is Amy Grant's highest selling CD, it has sold over five (5) million copies in the U.S. alone! When it came out in 1995 it went straight to number one on the billboard charts (the normal charts, pop charts, and christian charts). It spawned five (5) #1 hits (Baby Baby, Good for Me, That's what Love is for, Every Heartbeat, and I will remember You). It is an awsome CD and anyone whos loves pop music will LOVE it! Highly recommended! ... Read more

Reviews (56)

overlooked classic
Mother's Milk is one of the greatest albums of all time. It's better than the Peppers' previous albums and much better than Californication and One Hot Minute. It supplies your body and mind with energy like no other album except of the masterwork, Blood Sugar Sex Magik.

Mother's Milk introduces Chad Smith on drums and most important,
John Frusciante's funky guitar work. You can hardly call it work,
it sounds like all the members having the same fun and excitement
like the listeners.

The first 2 songs are exciting, especially the remake of Stevie Wonder's Higher Ground which has a great bass solo. This and the bass on 'Stone Cold Bush' established the legend of the 'funky ass flea bass', you also can hear the genius of flea on 'Taste the pain' where he plays trumpet. 'Knock me down' is the most beautiful and melodic song on this CD but better don't keep it too much in your head cos the lyrics of the chorus really knock you down. That's why I prefer 'Sexy Mexican Maid'.

All in all, Mother's Milk is a classic that has only 1 or 2 low points: 'Nobody's weird like me' is overshadowed by the other, much better songs and I can listen to 'Punk rock classic' only 1 time a month. But you shouldn't forget the other 11 tracks that make you wanna go out and improve the world!

At Least As Good As The More-Credited Blood Sugar Sex Magik
Blood Sugar Sex Magik was a great album, and has been noted as so. However, even though this album is shorter, I tend to find this one has more ingenuity and replay value. The opener, "Good Time Boys," sizzles, and has a truly cool intro (not to mention the awesome interlude where we hear snipits of totally unrelated songs right before firing back into the main riff.) Next up is "Higher Ground," their first big hit (despite being a cover.) Short, but great. Other highs are "Stone Cold Bush," "Taste the Pain," "Knock Me Down" and "Sexy Mexican Maid", but every song on here is cool enough for more than one listen. Seriously, words can't describe how fresh and amazing this album is. It's a must for anyone. Buy it!!! (Oh, and one quick note. On this site's review, it noted that Frusciante's playing was especially great on "Fire." Well, even though he IS their best guitarist, THAT playing is actually from the late Hillel Slovak. They had been playing that song quite a bit prior to Mother's Milk's release.)

Triumph of the Good Time Boys
Man, if only I could find the words to describe what it was like to be me in 1989...seventeen years old, living in a little hick town, and finding this album. What a liberating blast of funk-punk-sex-rap-rock in a world where Bocephus ruled.
"Good Time Boys" kicked the door open and showed off new guitarist John Frusciante, a rock song in the truest sense (note the sample of "Bonin' in the Boneyard" by Fishbone and "White Girl" by X). The catchy, uptempo remake of "Higher Ground" slowly grew into a rock radio hit for the Peppers. The funky "Subway to Venus" is a refreshing little slap on the face that almost dares you to sit still while listening (favorite line: "...if I can't make ya dance, I guess I'll just have to make ya piss ya pants..."). "Magic Johnson" is a funky, drum n' bass-driven ode to their favorite player of their beloved LA Lakers (although you have to wonder if the song might have been different if he had come out about his HIV beforehand). "Nobody Weird Like Me" is the Peppers doing what they did best...showing off the explosive, hyper-energy freakshow that they were in the late 80s: "the freakiest show I know is the show of my own...livin' my life in and out the twilight zone..."
The only hint of the cynicism that began surfacing on BloodSugarSexMagik comes in "Punk Rock Classic," when Anthony Keidis snipes at the music industry: "...just put us in a category, yes it's a must..." and the song ends with John Frusciante playing a dying few seconds of the opening to "Sweet Child o' Mine."
BloodSugarSexMagik was an amazing follow up to this, but the differences between the two albums almost make you think it's two different bands. The whole album is a hyper, energizing experience, and is probably my favorite early RHCP album.
For the folks who think "Under the Bridge" was how they got their start, pick up Mother's Milk and edify yourself.
Buy it!

Chili's go from good to great
I bought this album shortly after discovering Blood Sugar Sex Magik and falling in love with the album and the band. I set about getting all of their earlier albums, and this is the first one i purchased.

Mothers Milk is the first album to feature a completely different line up. Although Kiedis and Flea remain from the original Peppers, their guitarist Hillel Slovak tragically died from a heroin overdose shortly after their previous album, and their drummer Jack Irons went into a depression and left, due to the death of Slovak. So after deciding whether or not to carry on with the band, Kiedis and Flea thankfully kept it going. They enlisted a young guitarist who was a massive fan of the band, John Frusciante. His energy and enthuiasm won him the role, and he could already play all of their songs anyway. On drums, they found Chad Smith, who, although seeming to be out of place with his heavy rock image, fitted in perfectly. They set about writing Mothers Milk together, unaware that this would be the band line-up that would make them world famous.

So to the album itself. Their previous album 'Uplift Mofo Party Plan' signalled a slightly rockier edge, and they continued with this direction when making Mothers Milk. The album contains Flea's trademark funky slap bass throughout, and Kiedis's rap style vocals, but it brings in new energy from Frusciante and Smith. My album summary is as follows.

'Good time boys' - Starts the album off quite rockily, as it means to go on. Sounds like the CD is jumping in the middle of it, but its not! Some great guitar riffs.
'Higher Ground' - A cover of the Stevie Wonder classic, and better than the original! This one has featured on loads of compilations over the years. Flea's bass is brilliant.
'Subway to venus' - Bizarre vocals about space being king or something. A fairly average song though.
'Magic Johnson' - A tribute song to the legendary US basketball player who the Chili's love. Quite quirky, but funky as hell when it kicks in.
'Nobody weird like me' - How Flea's fingers don't fall off while playing this track i'll never know, the slap bass is on overdrive. Really fast paced rock song.
'Knock me down' - Mid tempo tune, an extended version of this appears on the re-released, remastered version of the album, but doesn't work quite as well. Good song, not dazzling, but good.
'Taste the pain' - Great little song, good guitar riffs, vocals, and a good video to go with it, buy 'What hits' on DVD if you can!
'Stone cold bush' - One of the album highlights, really rocky song, fast paced, great wah wah guitar, sounds of a woman having an orgasm in the background, what more could you want!
'Fire' - A cover of the Jimi Hendrix song, but about twice the speed. Brilliant version, and dare i say it again, better than the original?!
'Pretty little ditty' - Beautiful little instrumental track, part of which was covered by Crazy town years later on their hit 'Butterfly'.
'Punk rock classic' - Short snappy punk track, very rocky, ending in the guitar riff from GnR's sweet child of mine, bizarrely.
'Sexy mexican maid' - Brilliant smooth song, great groove, sexy lyrics.
'Johnny,kick a hole in the sky' - Great end to the album, got everything, funk,rock, great drumming, weird vocals (i mean what does kick a hole in the sky mean anyway)

There is a remastered version of this album available which has extended versions of Sexy Mexican maid and Knock me down, also has 2 brilliant instrumental tracks one of which is probably the funkiest thing they've ever done. It also has 2 live covers of Hendrix songs. Well worth buying.

All in all. this album is my 2nd favourite Chili's album after Blood Sugar. It basically paved the way for what was to come, and they re-invented themselves with this album. It is way different to the sound of Chili peppers circa 2004, in my view it is a much better sound, but any Chili's fan old and new will like the majority of this album. Go and buy it, you know you want to!

What happened to these days
Sad...This is one of the greatest albums period, and this band has COMPLETELY gone to garbage...a pure example of the death of a band... ... Read more

Amazon.com

One of contemporary Christian music's founding fathers, Michael W. Smith offers a brief sampling in this 10-year retrospective. Most of these keyboard-driven songs concern uplifting themes of encouragement, support, and friendship. Some would argue that the lyrical content appeals more to church youth than what Smith displayed in later releases. No matter. While Smith certainly doesn't feature a golden voice, his forte lies in his songwriting, as evidenced throughout this greatest-hits collection. "Place in This World" and "Go West Young Man" are hard-charging anthems with irresistible melodies, while the unique "Rocketown" and "Secret Ambition" show a CCM artist thinking outside the traditional borders. "Kentucky Rose," one of two new songs, perhaps is the most enjoyable and demonstrates where Smith has gone later in the 1990s. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (37)

A great decade of heart-touching classics...
Michael W. Smith is simply one of the best of the best. He has song after song after song that just cut into you deeper than the sharpest knife. His music and even the simple messages in his songs are always just what I need to get me through the rough times.

This CD encompasses the first 10 years of his solid ministry, picking the best of the best for us to enjoy. So, for all of the Smitty fans who aren't "freaks" enough to go buy 20 or so CD's from him, this CD is an excellent choice.

Great upbeat songs: PICTURE PERFECT, GO WEST YOUNG MAN, SECRET AMBITION
Great mellow songs: I WILL BE HERE FOR YOU, PLACE IN THIS WORLD, ROCKETOWN, FRIENDS

Thanks for 10 great years, Smitty!
This CD is a sentimental favorite of mine, because Michael W. Smith is the reason I started listening to Christian music. His timeless song, "Friends," was played at my high school graduation and has been one of my two favorite songs ever since (the other is "Worlds Apart" by Jars of Clay). "Friends" was also the reason I bought this album, the first Christian album I ever owned; and it was close to a week before I got around to listening to it because there are so many great songs on this album (good move putting it towards the end, guys). I hear people say all the time that Michael is a feel-good Christian singer, and that there isn't much depth in his lyrics. Sure, Michael does sing a lot of feel-good songs; it's impossible not to in the Christian music business. But those people have obviously never heard the songs "Pray For Me," "Give It Away," or "Place In This World," among others. These songs talk about the struggles and misconceptions that today's Christians have to deal with on a daily basis. And "Secret Ambition" tells of Jesus's unwaivering mission to redeem us through His self-sacrifice. These are hardly feel-good topics. I fell in love with Smith's music for the very reason that his songs made me think. And I continue to listen to this album because Michael W. Smith speaks from the heart. Obviously "Friends" is my favorite song on this track, but I memorized EVERY song. That alone should tell you something. Buy this album because you want to draw closer to God. Buy it because it makes you feel good. Or buy it because it makes you think. Whatever your reason, just buy it. You'll be glad you did.

Great is the Lord!
I recently pulled this CD out again and have been listening to it on my drive in to work. I have a short commute so it takes a couple days to cycle through the disk. On the days I get to Great is the Lord, I find myself welling up inside to the point of tears and say "yeah!" at the end. This is a song I've probably heard or sang a thousand times in my life, but hearing it here really hits home. Michael W. Smith was the first Christian artist I heard while growing up in the 80s and I was taken by how well written his songs were while having a Christian perspective - not to mention, they were great to listen to (my thinking at the time was that all Christian music had to be boring enough to be sung in a church service). Thank you Smitty. Great is the Lord!

Has all my favorites
This CD is right there--loaded with good stuff. Personally I like tracks 3,5,7,9 (notice a pattern?)the best. But there is not a bad song on this CD. If you are not a Mike fan, then this is a good one to start with. YOu get the best of his beginnings and a taste of where he is going.

5 stars? God didn't create enough stars to rate this album.
I do not think I can say enough about this CD in 1000 words. God told me it was evil. He was wrong. The Pope told me it was good. Long live PJP II.
Anyway, this compact disc was amazing. I wish I had the privigilege to own the cassette tape. And then lose it. Or wear it out, which ever comes first. I do not care about Smitty's cut-rate songs. He is one with God. I am one with God, and therefore I am one with him. I feel him inside me when he sings about his wife. When he sings about God, I feel even closer to him.
BUY THIS COMPACT DISC. THE POWER OF CHRIST COMPELS YOU! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

This CD Will Lift You Up!
I bought this CD for my seven-year old's birthday. He has listened to secular rock with me for years, and I felt like we needed something else to listen to in the car, and I knew that both my kids liked praise songs from church. Wow! I also bought him a CD player at the same time, and I have been amazed how much he chooses to listen to these songs, over and over and over. We all sing to these songs, even my Pearl Jam-loving husband! I've never been one to listen to Christian rock, prefering either true gospel or secular rock. I love this music and the sound of my son singing to God. I may order another one just like it so that my twelve-year old will have his own.

Great songs -- wish they were longer.....
All the songs are great, beautiful..... just wish they were longer in length. Seems they are all shortened versions. All the songs seem to be less than 2 minutes each.

For alone time with God
This CD provides me with the environment I often need to "settle" in and worship Jesus. The songs speak to me and let me know that Jesus is just a breath away. "Give Thanks" is definetely the best track on this CD. I feel so close to God during that time. It is not too intrusive into my bible study time with really distracting music. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

This Rhino re-release of Amazing Grace is at least as much a work of love as of marketing. The sound is beefier and clearer, but most importantly, the two-day church sessions are included. So, there's much more church (specifically, Reverend James Cleveland's marvelous orating) on the record, as well as contemporaryisms such as a cool organ rendition of George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord." Originally released as a double LP in 1972, Amazing Grace cracked the Billboard Top 10 on its release, making it one of the best selling gospel records of all time. Grace was recorded in a large Baptist church with an ultraenthusiastic audience in the pews, a full, funky band, and the Southern California Community Choir under the direction of Franklin's mentor, Cleveland. Her voice is melismatic and intensely emotional, yet pure and controlled, as if she is channeling the Holy Ghost. Franklin's father, the brilliant preacher Reverend C.L. Franklin, makes a brief, proud appearance, remarking, "She has never left the church!" Other highlights include the beautiful "Wholy Holy," an 11-minute, heart-stopping "Amazing Grace," and Inez Andrews's stirring "Mary, Don't You Weep." Way more than a return-to-the-roots record, this set is an inspired gospel-soul workout that arguably showcases Franklin's strongest singing ever. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Amazing Aretha
Long before she ascended the throne and donned the mantle of the Queen Of Soul, Aretha Franklin was a child of the church. Franklin's pedigree demanded such, since her father was the famous Reverend C.L. Franklin, and her mother was herself a gospel singer. AMAZING GRACE was Lady Soul's returnto her roots after hitting the secular stride of her fantastic strings of albums on Atlantic.

Recorded over two days at Los Angeles' New Temple Missionary Baptist Church, AMAZING GRACE finds Franklin backed by her studio band and joined by a choir led by family friend and gospel icon James Cleveland. Franklin's singing is unfettered and filled with a spirit not heard in her secular material. Most interesting is her seamless choice of material. She gives pop songs by Marvin Gaye ("Wholy Holy") and Carole King ("You've Got A Friend") a spiritual sheen, placing them alongside more traditional fare by Clara Ward ("How I Got Over") and Thomas Dorsey ("Precious Lord, Take My Hand"). Equally impressive are Franklin's rich arrangements, her interaction with the Southern California Community Choir, and her often overlooked piano playing on such songs as "Never Grow Old."

Disappointing
I was looking forward to upbeat, unique rendering of a variety of gospel songs performed by the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. As you can see by the selections shown on this CD set (2 CDs), several songs are repeated; namely, What A Friend we Have in Jesus, Wholy Holy, My Sweet Lord & Precious Memoris. I don't understand why these songs were duplicated on both CDs. I found the introductions and comments provided by Reverands Cleveland and Franklin annoying and unnecessary. I just wanted to hear the music. The highlights were How I Got Over, Amazing Grace and Wholy Holy. Otherwise, I wish I didn't waste my money. I learned my lesson though: Just because the artist is spectacular, doesn't mean the album is.

Dissapointing...
I brought this cd because i lost my copy of the original amazing grace cd. But when i got amazing grace: the complete recordings, i was very dissapointed, most because my favorite songs on the original recording; Old landmark and climbing higher mountain, have been replaced by different versions, which does not showcase Aretha`s vocal skills as they do on the original recording. Although the packaging and booklet are great, i would much rather reccomend the original cd, at lest if you want to hear Aretha at her very best:)

Amazing Aretha
WOW!!! Yet another extraordinary albumn from Miss Ree. I listen to this albulm all day long, and i'll listen to it forever. Truely a work of art. Nothing else could compare to this CD. Nobody sings like Aretha. You will be absolutely mesmorised by the sound of Aretha's voice in this collection, and will wish for more. Her amazing skill and soul is perfectly combined in this collection, the only thing that remains is for Warner Music to release the FULL filmed recording of this monumental event so that all her fans can watch the diva in her finest glory. Amazon, if you know how to get hold of this, please hurry, your customers will go crazy for it!

AN OLD TIME FAVORITE
One of my fondest childhood memories is my mother playing the album version of these recordings every Sunday. It is truly uplifting. But there are noticable differences between this release and the original 1972 release. This is a great CD, but I prefer the original with all the studio "sweetenings". "OLD LANDMARK" and "HOW I GOT OVER" are much more powerful on the 1972 version. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

If the bazillion packagings and repackagings of Mahalia Jackson's music confound you and you don't know where to start, this expertly compiled, carefully annotated double-disc box set is for you. Jackson wasn't just gospel music's first international superstar--she was among its earliest adherents and inventors. Working with the great composer and former blues singer Thomas A. Dorsey in the late 1930s, Jackson gave a distinctly blues-trained, jazzy sass and grace to Dorsey's material and the other hymns and spirituals she sang. More than any other performer, she helped to define gospel music itself as a transcendent, rootsy, melismatic, and heady spiritual sound. Culled from her sides for Columbia in the 1950s and 1960s, some of the arrangements in the set are not ideal and may sound quite a bit dated, but that voice shines and soars and dives straight to the center of your heart. Whether backed by a simple organ or piano or with full studio accompaniment, Jackson's booming, instantly recognizable contralto is indescribable, exciting, and forever a wonder to behold. And if you think that's an exaggeration, you don't own this record. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (11)

SPECTACULAR!!! THE QUEEN OF GOSPEL MUSIC AT HER BEST!!
THIS SET SHOWCASES MAHALIA'S AMAZING VOICE, AND HER WIDE VOCAL RANGE. THIS SET INCLUDES SONGS MAHALIA LEARNED AS A CHILD AT MOUNT MORIAH BAPTIST CHURCH, SOME OF PROFESSOR THOMAS DORSEY'S MATERIAL ALSO...THIS IS A MUST FOR ANY MAHALIA FAN!!!

The World's Greatest Gospel Singer
While Mahalia Jackson sings you can actually feel that she had the widest audience in the world. Today I feel that her songs and music have a great number of listeners searching for a varity of old favorite songs. CL 1343 Great Gettin' Up Morning albun is one I pray to find. It truly is The World's Greatest Gospel Albun ever. God Put A Rainbow In The Ski - His - To Me It's So Wonderful - Just To Behold His Face - My Journey To The Ski - When I've Done My Best - Tell The World About This - How Great Thou Art - He Must Have Known. Perhaps you can find the albun on this site and listen to the great power that comes to you from her voice.

WOW!! After All These Years...
...she is still considered the "Queen of Gospel". She has been dead for about 30 years and NO gospel artist can compare to her. Not even the late Rev. James Cleveland can get this much respect. When you hear Mahalia sing, it's like GOD singing. That's how powerful her voice was. Even when I have my doubts on life, I depend on Mahalia to pick me up (and she does). This collection is the best collection out there (IMO) on Ms. Jackson. I recommend this to all. I wished I was alive to have heard her sing live, but at least I have this collection.

It doesn't get any better than this.
It's hard to believe you can get this much for $16.99. I'm not talking about quantity, although there is that. I mean quality. I bought this album for a much higher price when it came out, and it was worth it. There is a vast range here, most of it superlative, some completely without peer. "Elijah Rock" is sublime, breathtakingly moving, quietly majestic, resonant.

Listen to her in "I Will Move On Up a Little Higher" or "In the Upper Room" and you'll know why she will always belong with the top artists. Never surpassed. What comes out of her is more than words, more than music. It's as if Someone Else is talking through her.

Better than remembering!
In my memory's ear, Mahalia was an incredible and pure voice. But I was knocked out to listen to this CD and realise how modern and jazzy her arrangements were.

The title of the CD is too confining. It should just be, "Mahalia at Her Best". ... Read more

Amazon.com

As a precocious 14-year-old, Stacie Orrico made her music biz debut with Genuine, a remarkably soulful release that went gold without much fanfare other than that generated by a limited supporting role on tour with Destiny’s Child. Now all of 16, Orrico shows more youthful moxy in a self-titled collection of upbeat pop and more R&B-influenced tracks. Her expressive vocals continue to belie the fact that she’s merely a teenager, as she draws inspiration from idols ranging from Ella Fitzgerald to Lauryn Hill. Orrico also co-wrote eight of her release’s 12 tracks, including hit single "Stuck," an ode to school-age love. Certainly Orrico leans heavy on the talents of producers Tedd T, Dallas Austin, and the Underdogs, who combine to give the exuberant youngster a silky-smooth sound. But for critics who would label Orrico as another propped-up teen artist, check out her starkly revealing ballad "Strong Enough," which shows us a young girl on the edge seeking wholeness in her spirituality. That genuineness, combined with a wealth of vocal talent, makes Stacie Orrico someone to watch. Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (153)

Love this CD!!
Im so in love with this cd,an its always on heavy rotation.But I think Stacie did a damn good job with this album.She really mature vocally on this album,I think this is her best album,cant wait till she comes out with another one.

1.Stuck- Love this song,Always "Stuck" in my head. 5/5

2.More To Life- Wasnt a favorite of mines,but the more I listen to it on the radio an such,the more I like it. 5/5

3.Bounce Back- I love to "Bounce" to this song. 5/5

4.I Promise- Another standout song. 4/5

5.Security- Love this song. 5/5

6.Instead- An alright song. 4/5

7.Hesitation- Least favorite on the album. 3/5

8.Strong Enough- Beautiful song on the album.My favorite. 6/5

9.I Could Be The One- Another favorite of mines. 5/5

10.Maybe I wont look back- Nice song. 4/5

11.Tight- Another nice upbeat song. 4/5

12.Thats Whats Loves About- Nice song but isnt my fav. 4/5

Overall this is a good album. Go out an buy!!!Now!!

STACIE ORRICO'S SECOND ALBUM PROVES THIRD TIMES A CHARM
After following success with her debut album and scoring two hit singles and a Christmas EP Stacie Orrico returns with her self-titled second album full of lots of surprises and lots more. This album much like Amy Grant's 1991 album Heart In Motion focuses less on Stacie's Christian image as she settles down into a more Britney Spears/Christina Aguilera type image. Here's my song by song take on each track,
1. Stuck,
My first exposure to Stacie Orrico and this song is just perfect for someone getting into the pop genre,
2. There's Gotta Be {More to Life}
This song is already a huge hit on radio stations around the nation and this song is cowritten by pop artist Lucy Woodward,
3. Bounce Back,
In this song we find Stacie singing about getting over the hard rocky road of life and with a cool groove Stacie proves that you have to bounce bounce back,
4. I promise,
This song is the first ballad and tells about how your friend is always be there for you even when the times are tough. It's also written by world famous songwriter Diane Warren,
5. Security,
This song is a mega hit on the Christian charts and i'm greatly aware that Stacie will win a Dove Award for Best Christian Artist this year. This song is also featured on the WOW 2003 Christian Artist collection,
6. Instead,
This song talks about how Stacie meets up with a homeless man and offers him the better life. Best be picked as the third single,
7. Hesitation,
This song is a fast moving Christian dance song that will surely be a hit on Christian radio,
8. Strong Enough,
The second ballad on the album that is so wonderful and the wonderfulness is in the lyrics that carries a strong message about not giving up and being true to yourself,
9. I could be the one,
This song would knock Britney Spears socks off because this song has some very cool lyrics and a neat beat,
10. Maybe I won't look back,
This song is another pop tune that Stacie is one heck of a singer and the beat and the lyrics work so well together,
11. Tight,
The only weak spot on the album because it is so short but to put it simple a dancey song,
12. That's what love's about,
At first you might mistake this song for Nsync's Gone but the final track makes an neat song to dance to with your best crush,
At 17 Stacie Orrico is still making a hit with the Christian market but hope that she will have more success with the pop market as well. For far more Christian fare take a look at these rising Christian Albums, Point Of Grace-Life Love And Other Mysteries, Zoegirl-Zoegirl, Jaci Velasquez-Unspoken, Point Of Grace-Free To Fly, Michael W Smith-Change Your World, Sandi Patty-Find it on the wings, And Third Day-Offerings A Worship Collection, If you haven't gotten the chance to hear Stacie sing this album is the one to own and is well worth the money

Good
I like 9 out of the 12 songs on this CD. This album really gets me dancing. Stacie rocks!!

Stuck-1 Star Not my favorite song on the album; it isn't the best song.

More to Life-15/5 Stars! The best song on the album! It's great!

Bounce Back- 5/5 Stars Good song with great lyrics!

I Promise- 2/5 This song really isn't Stacie's style.

Security-4/5 Good song; it talks about God being your security, not people

Instad- 5/5 Great beat; great message!

Hesitation- 5/5 Really good song with a truthful message. Why do some people hesitate to come to God?

Strong Enough-5/5 A beautiful song about how strong God really is.

I Could be the One-5/5 A great upbeat song about how God can use a person.

Maybe I Won't Look Back-5/5 Fun song!

Tight-5/5 Another fun song with a great message...only God can keep us in tune!

That's What Love's About-1/5 One of my least favorite songs on the album.

I also enjoy Stacie's CD, Genuine. It is awesome. I can't believe that she was only 14 when she started making albums! She won the recording contract at age 12!

A wonderful surprise
Stacie Orrico (pronounced or-REE-ko) is one of those artists whose music I liked, but I just never got around to giving the CD a try. I finally listened to it today, and it's a very good album. I was originally going to say that this album was overlooked, although you really couldn't tell by the reviews on this site.

On Stacie's first album, Genuine, she was pretty much inspirational all the way. But some people probably own that album and love it, and then they heard the R&B-flavored "Stuck" hit the speakers and said, "What?" Hey, sometimes you have to do what sells. And it's not that "Stuck" isn't a great song, but it IS different from the material on her first album.

There are some other good songs on here too, like one of my favorites, "Bounce Back". And "I Promise" and "Security" probably wouldn't work right if they were slow songs (look at the lyrics to see what I mean), but they DO stand out on here. I'm also wondering if the person that said Stacie lost her faith listened to the whole album, because things get pretty spiritual toward the end of the album, as shown on "Hesitation", "Tight", and the wonderful ballad "Strong Enough".

"(There's Gotta Be) More to Life", another one of my favorites, could also double as an inspirational song, depending on how you look at it. And the obligatory end-of-album we-are-the-world song "That's What Love's About" actually works pretty well. But I knocked off a star because "Tight" ends in an odd place, and "Instead" was a little too out there. Still, Stacie Orrico's self-titled album is definitely worth picking up.

Anthony Rupert

Charming Girl With Inspiring Virtues
Stacie's "Stacie Orrico" is charmer in every way. Her soft and succulent vocals are refreshing and sweet, and she truly tries to bring justifiable messages across in her music. She uses words to potently get her views across, and hot club funky beats to allure the listeners who wouldn't usually find this music appealing. One of the most inspiring and uplifting songs that I've heard in a long time resides in this album. "Strong Enough" is accompanied by just a mere piano, but is a soft and delicate flower of a song that hits your spiritual heart in its emotional core. This song alone brought my rating from 3 stars to 4 stars. The sophomore slump didn't slow her down at all. ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Karen Clark Sheard's Done It Again
Karen Clark-Sheard arguably has one of the best voices in the music industry. I've been a fan of hers since 1997, and her voice, words, and power continues to amaze me. Being the son of a gospel singer myself, and also singing gospel music myself, she's definetly someone to look up to, because she has an awe-inspiring voice. "The Heavens Are Telling," CD is GREAT to me. It was good for her to do some live songs, because she sings and sounds so much better live than compared to the studio tracks she had on her last album, "2nd Chance." (WHICH WAS ALSO ANOTHER GREAT ALBUM TOO!)
My favorite song on the CD is probably, "I Owe." Though, it does remind me A LOT of Kirk Franklin's, "Hosanna," I think it was good for her to take an already great melody, and flip it to her style - and she tears it up flawlessly, as usual. I love the duet she does with Kierra Sheard on, "You Loved Me." First, Karen does that echo effect, which I think NO singer can top. Then at the end, Kierra comes in (and her voice reminded me of Beyonce a lil' bit) and she sucessfully fulfills what I call "The Clark Growl" - a singing trait I've only heard Karen and Twinkie Clark conquer. Another great song to me is, "Praise Up." It's an awesome song to bump while you driving to work, or to school.
But, no matter what song it is on the CD, they're all great. From the slow and deep, "God Is Here," to the Youthy sound of, "Go Ahead," feat. Missy Elloitt. This CD soothes me when I feel bad, and I think she has something for everyone to hear. So being a big fan of Karen, I believe that everyone should grab this CD and see what "The Heavens Are Telling."

The Heavens Are Sho Nuff Telling!
Karen Clark Sheard definitely is being a vessel for God to use! Her 3rd project is awesome. Once again she has production by one of the best producers, James Moss (her cousin), and Donald Lawrence also produces some of the first live tracks. I enjoy "Go Ahead" feat. Missy Elliott (who is going to have the Clark Sisters on her project, too). I also like "Praise Up" which is a great dance song. "I Owe" reminds me of Kirk Franklin's "Hosanna," but is a great song, too. This project showcases Karen's daughter, Kierra "Kiki" Sheard, who is representing the next generation of singers. This album needs to be in any gospel music lover's home! Like I said before, the production from J. Moss (PAJAM) is off da hook! He previously produced gospel artists such as Ramiyah (who sings background on some of Karen Clark Sheard's new CD), Hezekiah Walker, Trin-i-tee 5:7, Virtue, Men of Standard, Dawkins & Dawkins, and the list goes on! Also, watch out for Karen's son, J. Drew II, for producing on her future project. Overall, I recommend this album to anyone who loves praising Jesus! -May God Bless You-

Wow!
I bought this album because I heard "You love me" on the radio. It is a gospel cover of the the Jill Scott song. The song is so annointed. Can anyone do the echo effect like that? And her daughter is amazing, again. No one can tell me that the ability to sing is not in your genes. The Clark family proves this over and over again. Love it !!

THIS IS THE HEART OF WORSHIP!!!!!!!
THIS ALBUM IS A MUST HAVE FOR EVERY BELIEVER. IT WILL MAKE YOU DANCE, CRY, SPEAK IN TONGUES, MEDITATE, BUT MOST OF ALL LAY AT THE MASTERS FEET. THE FIRST SONG "WE ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR PRESENCE", IS A SONG LIKE TAKE THE SHAKLES OFF MY FEET THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO GET UP GIVE IT UP IN A DANCE, THEN THEIR IS ANDRAE CROUCH SONG "WE ARE NOT ASHAMED", THIS IS ONE OF MY PERSONAL FAVORITES. THIS SONG GOES FROM GLORY GLORY W/ MARY MARY AND KAREN. "MAKE HIS PRAISE GLORIOUS" , IS A SONG SIMULAR TO BYRON CAGE'S THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD IS HERE. MY FAVORITE SONG ON THIS CD IS THE CD NAME "THE HEAVENS ARE TELLING" , THIS SONG REAALY PROVOKES THE BELIEVER TO LOOK AROUND AT THE MANY BLESSINGS OF GOD, THEN THERE IS "GOD IS HERE", WHICH TAKES YOU BEHIND THE VEIL AND STRAIGHT BEFORE GOD, KAREN COMMANDS GOD PEOPLE TO LAY EVERYTHING AT THE FEET OF GOD, EVEN IN OUR CHURCHES. SHE CHANTS , "GOD IF YOU GOT TO MOVE THE PROGRAM OUT THE WAY, WE WANT TO HEAR YOU." PRAISE GOD!! THE NEXT SONG IS W/ HER ANNOINTED DAUGHTER, JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT U HAD ENOUGH CLARK SISTERS ON THE CAHRTS HERE COMES ANOTHER. WELL IF YOU BUY THIS ALBUM OR WHEN, YOU WILL NOT BE DISSAPPOINTEED, U WILL PLAY IT FOR HOURS. OTHER ALBUMS TO HAVE IS: JUANITA BYNUM MORINIG GLORY: PEACE AND MORNING GLORY: BEHIND THE VEIL, JUDY JACOBS: ABOVE AND BEYOND, GLADYS KNIGHT"S MANY DIFFERENT ROADS WILL LEAD TO GLORY", CANDI STATON'S "PROVERBS 31 WOMAN, SHIRLEY CAESAR'S:DUETS ( A MUST HAVE), AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST PAUL MORTON'S NEW CD. WELL GOD BLESS YOU AND BE ENCOURAGED.

THERE IS DIVERSITY IN GOD
A radical , unorthodox offering of song... Praise rendered in spirit and truth pulls down strongholds and envokes the presence of God almighty Himself. Thru this cd I can truly say " I WAS CREATED TO MAKE HIS PRAISE GLORIOUS" not just in song, but in word and deed. The remake of Jill Scott's "He Loves Me"... sends chills all through me... it's a love song in every dimension to the divine and true God... honestly an other- wordly selection. .. loved it, and continue to love it. ... Read more

Album Description

On A Boot And A Shoe Sam Phillips fully realizes the sound she began exploring on her acclaimed Nonesuch debut, Fan Dance. The new music is simple while sophisticated, rich but economical, deriving much of its power from restraint and subtlety. Produced by T-Bone Burnett, the record's 13 songs unfold with the intimacy and organic coherence of a live show. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Her best yet
I've been a fan of Sam Phillips ever since I saw the film "Ruby in Paradise" several years ago, which featured songs from previous releases "Cruel Inventions" and "Indescribable Wow." There's a fierce quality about her music and lyrics that instantly drew me in. I bought "Fan Dance" and then didn't listen to it for 3 months--until I realized what I had been missing. It has been my favorite of all her ablums until now.

"A Boot and a Shoe" surpasses "Fan Dance," and I think it's her best work yet. There are gospel and folk influences, and the pared-down production and string quartet give this album a very intimate quality. Lyrically, she strikes a melancholy balance: her "dark heart lit up the skies." I am thankful for it.

open the world
This record is yet another brilliant piece of work from Sam. It does require a few listens to really kick in, but once it does, it just won't let go.

The virgin era albums were more full blown, Technicolor productions. This and "Fan Dance" are more black and white in approach,( there are some who don't like black and white, so sorry) but to say that they are unadorned is simply not true. Half of this album has beautiful string arrangements; there's some pretty great drumming going on, heck the first song has a doubletracked vocal on it. For those who feel it's one long song, listen again.

I always thought that the best things about Sam are her songs and her voice. The melodies are memorable, tuneful. Nobody writes more economically than Sam; why write three verses when two will do? I didn't notice any " cosmic whining" in the lyrics. You can read into it any way you like; I think Sam likes to leave things open to interpretation, leave some mystery there. As for her singing, she is a great vocalist, making the most of what she has.
Some have complained about the length. Well, Revolver and Pet Sounds are short albums too. This record doesn't need to be any longer than it is. It feels complete to me.

In some ways, this and "Fan Dance" are the best work Sam has done. The Virgin era owed a lot sonically to the Beatles. I think these records are unique.No one is quite working in the same territory. I think that is why Sam has fallen in between the cracks, there is no easy categorization to her approach, and there never was.

There are many rich rewards to be found here. This is a great album. Open the world and listen.

Just Buy It
A prettier, sneakier Tom Waits with a golden, effortless voice, Sam Phillips reaches back to re-create music that should've existed years ago but never did.

Think of a dance hall on Slapton Sands in England, 1955, with a dazzlingly complex, sexy, and lucid chanteuse singing to you, you still single and having served in the War, in your white tux and black tie, on the prowl for a woman like her who'll understand what you went through and more. She's smarter than you, but forgiving, and so wise that you have to draw your breath in and listen to what she says.

That's what Phillips (and her husband, producer T-Bone Burnett) achieve with this album. She transports you back into a time and place with malice aforethought; lyrically, she takes the simplest words and takes you deeper than you deserve to go. This is an accessible, artistic achievement of the highest order; you can play it for dinner guests, your mom, or visitors from other stars and it'll stay with them more than Frank Sinatra or Tony Bennett. My wife gave it to me for Father's Day and I can't stop listening to it. I can't stop listening to it; close your eyes and think of an England it would've been good to live in.

Sam's Awesome.
Fan Dance was great, and so is this one. The lyrics are pure poetry. The melodies are wonderful. The voice-- her little, sexy whisper-- is beautiful. And "I Wanted to Be Alone" is just killer funny.

Words for the mind. Sweets for the ear. Chuckles for your funny bone. What more can anyone want from pop music?

Completely in love....
This was my introduction to Sam Phillips. I have since bought almost all of her albums and they are all very very good - this album and Fan Dance being my favorite. I even went to see her in concert (highly recommended!)

What a great album and in so many ways. The scaled-back production accentuates the beautiful melodies, deep lyrics and her lovely voice. In a time where over-production is ubiquitous, this album is a complete delight to the ears, the mind and the heart. I know others have complained about how short this album is...but there is so much in this album that I can't imagine it being any longer. And I can't wait for the next one...What more could you ask from an artist??? Enjoy!

PS - There are some beautiful lines in this album....

"I've been wanting to touch you since we met
You don't give a girl a chance to forget...."

"My dark heart lit up the skies...."

"When no one's listening, I have so much to say...." ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Must Have!
I am a big Dave Crowder fan so it is not surprising I love his remix.To see Daves band in concert is a very emotional experience.This is worth your money!

David Crowder Meets Postal Service
This is an excellent CD.Just know what you're getting first--it's not for everyone.Listen to the samples on Amazon.The CD can best be described as Postal Service-esque remixes of Crowder's classic songs.If you like the Postal Service, then this CD is for you.

Also be sure to pick up David Crowder's new book, Praise Habit: Finding God in Sunsets and Sushi.He is as good a writer as he is a musician.

Exceeded my expectations
I've never been a very big DCB fan, but I must say that these remixes (or "spectral deconstructions") are incredible. I wish more artists would do projects like this. Dance remixes generally suck because they dispose of the essence of a song, replacing it with redundant beats that go on for ten minutes. Not so with the remixes on this EP. The songs are intact and simply reinvented with new instruments, both digital and analog. If you are a fan of The Postal Service or any other music that is song-based but electronic, please do yourself a favor a drop the handful of dollars it takes to get Sunsets & Sushi.

Interesting
I love Illuminate and after seeing the $9 price on this the other day at Wal-mart I picked it up.It's a really cool idea, and I always love to take old worship songs and keep them fresh and interesting.Maybe I need to give it more time, but I really agree with the reviewer that said some of the songs sound flat.That's immediately what I thought.There are no emotional ups and downs in the music.There is no climax when songs transition from verse to chorus.The songs just sounded empty to me, almost like someone talking over a little beat in the background.But I appreciate and respect the effort.Some of the songs are a lot of fun.

See... Jesus really IS cool!
I'm a graphic designer for a progressive church, so you can bet that if Jesus collides with a remix album, I'm going to buy it. I think this album is exceptional. For me, it DID replace Illuminate. I enjoy a more downbeat, chill-out sound, even as much as I love Crowder's other stuff. I found myself working with one hand lifted in praise and the other on the mouse. (I think Jesus is okay with that.) The entire CD is just a fluid movement, and each song even loops well into itself if you put it on single repeat, as I did with tracks 2, 3 and 4. Heavenly, just Heavenly. And it's a great witnessing tool as well, especially for the elite dance-crowd club kids that don't realize that Jesus really IS cool. ... Read more