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Greatest-hits collections often deprive the listener of the chance to experience an artist's true scope of talent. Not so with Steve Miller--his strength has always been more in crafting an occasional blast of FM-radio heaven rather than a dozen solid album tracks.Greatest Hits 1974-78 chronicles the best singles from Miller's most successful years, after he veered from Haight-Ashbury bluesy trippiness to more accessible blues-based pop-rock. There are the slippery grooves of "The Joker" and "Fly Like an Eagle," and there's the air-guitar-beckoning riff rock of "Take the Money and Run," "Jungle Love," "Rock n'Me," and "Jet Airliner." Don't expect groundbreaking art, expect references to the "pompatus of love" and instant gratification. Requisite listening at the classic-rock keg party. --Neal Weiss ... Read more

Reviews (57)

good but flawed!
Steve Miller Band's Greatest Hits 1974-1978 lives up to it's title for the most part except that "The Joker" is from 1973. While the album has Steve Miller's biggest radio hits, there is not much point to the album, other than "The Joker" the rest of the songs only come from two different albums,"Fly Like an Eagle and "Book of Dreams" and both of those albums are good enough that most fans would be pleased with those to albums. The other thing that counts against this album is the edited version of "Jet Airliner". I would recommend getting Fly like an Eagle, Book of Dreams, and the new Greatest Hits Cd that covers his whole career.

Worth the money for fans both new and old
Steve Miller Band is, in my oppinion, one of the best bands of all time. This C.D. compiles their era very well. It shows all of the diverse music that was created by Miller. Some may criticize the fact that the songs are a bit too diverse, with Fly Like an Eagle, The Joker, and Jungle Love all included on one C.D. This, however, is the essence of a "Greatest Hits," to put together a collection of the best songs by the band. Some of my personal favorites include:
Swingtown - This will engrave itself in your head very quickly
Jungle Love- A song with a good melody and guitar. Quite simply, it drives me wild and makes me crazy.
The Joker- Probably the best known piece by SMB, a very good song that has the feel of swing with the stylings of rock.
Fly Like An Eagle- A classic. I personally found it humorous when my nephew identified this as the "Post office song"
Dance, Dance, Dance- This will make you want to do just that with it's upbeat, catchy tune.

Almost the Greatest!
Great album but not the bast compilation. What makes the Steve Miller Band unique is obvioulsy their distinctive sound which is nice to here every once in a while. It takes me back to the 70's. Again, enjoyed the album but could be better!!!

Good, but not really his best
"Greatest Hits" is good. No way is this the artist's best, though. I would definitely recommend each and every one of his albums before this. Yes, there's some edits here. Yes, "Jet Airliner" is censored. No, "Space Cowboy" and "Living in the USA" aren't found here. No, "Winter Time" was not a "hit". These factors make this a three star album. VERY casual fans will enjoy it, because most only purchase compilations. But if you want to dig deeper, but not buy every note (even though you should), get "Anthology". Don't even get the box set- its set list is way too confused, and the inclusion of several recordings made before Steve was a teenager does not serve the listener well. To the reviewer who said that Miller was the worst vocalist ever- I don't think so, and perhaps you should go back and ask yourself why this album is currently rated the number 800 selling album on amazon.com (this comp is a quarter- century old, and Miller hasn't had a legitimate "hit" since the 80's ("Wide River" doesn't count).

no
this album is a no. so are all steve miller's. miller is a crooning idiot who thinks he is so cute. his voice is one of the worst i have heard in years (on Jet Airliner he sounds like he is saying "Bingo Gyp with a lineup" instead of "big ol jet airliner"), and the music is overrated and outdated. most of his songs are annoying and/or awful. stay away. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Although not in the same vein as the deliciously hallucinogenic earlier Floyd works such as Ummagumma and Dark Side of the Moon, Animals is innovative and musically diverse in its own right. Inspired in part by George Orwell's political fable Animal Farm, Roger Waters condemns the avarice and inequalities of capitalism, metaphorically and musically grouping humans as pigs, dogs, and sheep. The pigs are self-righteous hypocrites inflicting their beliefs on everyone else, the dogs greedy money-grabbers, and the sheep witless followers. Dark, cynical, and brilliantly composed, Animals is an ingenious and under-acknowledged album. --Naomi Gesinger ... Read more

Reviews (361)

One of the best classic rock albums ever.
Of all the Pink Floyd albums, this one seems to get the least amount of attention. "Animals" is a masterpiece musically and especially lyrically, showcasing Roger Waters' incredible cutting edge songwriting. Though Waters wrote nearly all the songs, the entire band shines in their playing. Richard Wright's eerry opening organ on "Pigs ( Three Different Ones ) " sets the stage for a crunching guitar attack by David Gilmour and a cracking drum beat by Nick Mason, all supporting the firey bite of Roger Waters angry singing. Even more so than "The Wall", "Animals" best displays Waters' visionary writing which sadly began to slip into the silly after "The Wall". Although the album has only five songs, every one of them is great, especially the Gilmour-co written "Dogs", which contains his best ever guitar solo. Even if your only a moderate Pink Floyd fan, don't pass up "Animals", its one of their best.

There may be dogs about
There isn't a whole lot to say that hasn't yet been said about this, my personal choice as favorite Pink Floyd album. It encapsules all the best that was the group and hits the band's pinnacle before it's more widely acclaimed follow-up, "The Wall." Slow chugging melodies rife with perfectly accentuated sound effects and the trademark headphone orgasms that have always been their bread and butter, this album seems to be Roger Water's best lyrical effort ever. Before he took the band and went a bit too far with "The Wall," he crafted a brilliant four part thematic album which attacks at various times, religious sheep, working class dogs, political pigs, and a few other human stereotypes with his razor sharp wit and acidic tongue. Mason and Wright have a grand time demonstrating the value Waters would sadly underestimate down the road, Waters himself anchors the sound with his thundering bass and guitarist extraordinaire David Gilmour fires off riff after searing riff of stinging Stratocaster leads, satin smooth strumming, and his uncanny scat-like ability to, as one reviewer put it, "make his guitar talk." There are fewer than a handful of guitarists in rock's long history who can match the pure emotion and passion that Gilmour has laid down in his career. In fact, one of the more underappreciated aspects of the Floyd was their musical prowess. These four fellows are all exceptional talents at putting together a song so carefully crafted that not one note ever seems out of place or excessive (hello Edward Van Halen). Side note: I have never figured out why the band has refused to release the 8-track version of "Pigs On The Wing" which featured a really nice solo that bridged the two parts together quite nicely. On the 8-track the song wasn't separated into two smaller book-end songs and I wish someone would restore that long lost solo.
Either way, this is Pink Floyd with every you want: spacey effects, stoned rhythms, breathtaking musical chops, brilliant social commentary, and excellent art work. If the theatrics the band degenerated into after Waters took total control seem a bit over-the-top at times to you and the trippy free-form of earlier albums has you bewildered, check out this album and find where it all came together.

Roger Waters is a genius, great album
This is a great album, the music is captivating and the lyrics are mesmerizing! A must have!

I read some revues from people who say this is good.
I read some revues from people who say this is good.
You know what I say to that?

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.

OF COURSE THIS IS NOT GOOD. IT IS STUPID AND BORING AND A DULL TREAT. BUT I HEARD ALL HIPPY BANDS ARE LIKE THAT.

IT SHOULD REALLY ALL BE FORGOTTEN FOR IT IS MEANINGLESS NOISE ONLY THERE TO CONPHUSE PEOPLE.

animaniac
not the greatest pink floyd album of all time but a good one at that. if you are a new classic rock listener this is not the floyd album for you, but as you get more into them and you start your collection with dark side, the wall, and wish you were here, this is the fourth or fifth floyd album you should get. both parts of pigs on the wing are so good because of the change from the other songs on the album. dogs and pigs (three different ones) are good long songs and something you will want to shut off if you havent listened to them before, but keep listening because there is a treat in sheep, the best song off this album. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Queen brought a whole new meaning to the phrase over the top. While rock & roll flamboyance stretched back at least as far as Little Richard, Freddie Mercury continued to camp it up, taking little seriously and smirking at the music's growing pretensions while partaking in them no small bit. Many of the band's singles hold up extremely well, later tracks such as "Hammer to Fall" as much as prime-era numbers such as "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Killer Queen," and "You're My Best Friend." The quartet's canny sense of melody and sophisticated vocal harmonies--not to mention Mercury's raised eyebrow--have traveled well through the years. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (115)

Get the America versions instead
This 2-disc set compiles the original British versions of "Greatest Hits I & II". You do get some songs on here that aren't on the American versions ("Greatest Hits" & "Classic Queen") like "Breakthru", "The Invisible Man", "Innuendo", "It's A Hard Life", "Flash's Theme" and "Friends Will Be Friends". But chances are you aren't familiar with most of those songs, most of which are from Queen's synth-happy 80's period. The American versions include "Keep Yourself Alive", "Stone Cold Crazy", "Tie Your Mother Down", and "Body Language" all songs that were semi-popular on this side of the pond, and all of which (except "Body Language") are extracted from Queen's more rocking golden years of 1973-1980. Together, "Classic Queen" and "Greatest Hits" represent the ultimate Queen collection. If you'd rather explore the songs that were more popular from Tony Blair's point of view, by all means get this (I will admit, the songs on GH I & II are sequenced more chronologically then they are on the haphazardly-presented American versions).

All the Queen You Need
The 1991 death of Freddie Mercury and the inclusion of "Bohemian Rhapsody" in the film "Wayne's World" ignited a renewed interest in Queen. Known for their over-the-top arrangements and Mercury's undeniable stage presence, Queen was one of the most popular international acts ever. "Queen Greatest Hits 1&2" is the definitive collection of the group's material. These guys dabbled with rock ("We Will Rock You"), pretentious pop ("Bohemian Rhapsody"), Chic-inspired r&b ("Another One Bites the Dust"), compelling, sap-free love songs ("You're My Best Friend"), rockabilly ("Crazy Little Things Called Love"), and even synth pop ("Radio Ga Ga"). Few groups could claim a body of work so varied as Queen, and all the hits are compiled on these two discs. Other favorites of mine are "I Want to Break Free," the soaring, tear-jerking "Who Wants to Live Forever" and "The Show Must Go On," which had to be written as a hint of Mercury's eventual passing. My only gripe is that this set excludes the synth-heavy "Body Language," which I personally liked. Queen isn't one of my all-time favorite groups, but only a fool would deny their indelible mark on pop music.

We Will Rock You
It is so hard to imagine Greatest Hits records these days. They all seem to be anticipated very well at first, but they all seem to lack a lot of great songs in the process. It just never ends. Even some of the greatest Rock N' Roll bands also have that problem. That comes with the case of Queen. Although Freddie Mercury died several years ago, his feeling for what Pop music is in the industry, was more imaginitive and creative than anything that has ever come out. Still, there are a whole amount of people who want to cash in on Queen. Recently, Britney Spears, Pink, and Beyonce Knowles conjured their version of We Will Rock You for a Pepsi commercial, which was the worst remake ever, considering they don't have what Queen had, a legacy.

Queen Greatest Hits 1 & 2, released in 1994, was a combination plate of the first two Queen hits collections. The songs that Roger Taylor, Freddie Mercury, John Deacon, and Roger Taylor created were all their own. The legacy Queen made is truly felt right here. The first disc contained hits from their days in the 70's and early 80's. The songs include a wide amount of hits including operatic classics Bohemian Rhapsody, Bicycle Race, and Somebody To Love, as well as classic Rock anthems like We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions. The songs range here so well by Queen from Rock, R&B, Dance, Opera, and much more.

The second disc is where their popularity failed in the U.S. during the 80's, but still recieved massive airplay in Europe. The songs here are also widely recieved including Radio Ga Ga, The upbeat Invisible Man, Under Pressure with David Bowie, the dramatic Innuendo, and one of their most covered classics The Show Must Go On. The only dissapointment with this collection, is that a vast amount of songs here could've been added, including live performances, and songs like Tie Your Mother Down. Largely considering, the first disc was much shorther than the second one in the process.

Considering with this collection, a lot of fans might be torn into 2 different directions. In 2002, the colection was reissued with the Greatest Hits Volume 3. Another factor is that both collections are about the same price too. If you can't find this collection, get The Platinum Collection instead. It is one of the best Greatest Hits collections out there.

excellent compilation
The reason why I gave it only 4 stars, is because it's a double compilation. I just think it's a little too long. But the tracks are pretty good. I think the disc one is better than the disc 2. Because I like the older songs are better. If you really don't wanna buy lots of their albums, you may try this.

ROCK AS THEATRE
This double-CD is by far the most complete of all the greatest hits and best of collections by this theatrical UK band. Although they weren't always highly regarded by rock critics, Queen's popularity is remarkably enduring. That is perhaps explained by the fact that they didn't only offer over-the-top schlock-rock, but created remarkable versatile music, especially in the hit singles.

This is best demonstrated on Disc One, where the faux-classical Bohemian Rhapsody appears next to the funky dance classic Another One Bites The Dust. There's also the rockabilly flavoured Crazy Little Thing Called Love, power ballads like the impressive Somebody To Love and anthemic numbers like We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions.

On Disc Two my favorites include the catchy Under Pressure (with David Bowie) and the hypnotic, synth-driven Radio Ga Ga. Above all, Queen's strength lies in their gripping melodies, innovative arrangements and spectacular harmonies. Their best work dates from the seventies and eighties but even the later singles have lost none of their sing-along appeal.

This is a great compilation of ageless songs from one of the top UK bands of all time and it comes with a fact- and photo-filled booklet tracing their history and their achievements. An album set that definitely ought to be in every rock lover's collection. ... Read more

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As it turned out, Led Zeppelin's infamous 1969 debut album was indicative of the decade to come--one that, fittingly, this band helped define with its decadently exaggerated, bowdlerized blues-rock. In shrieker Robert Plant, ex-Yardbird Jimmy Page found a vocalist who could match his guitar pyrotechnics, and the band pounded out its music with swaggering ferocity and Richter-scale-worthy volume. Pumping up blues classics such as Otis Rush's "I Can't Quit You Baby" and Howlin' Wolf's "How Many More Times" into near-cartoon parodies, the band also hinted at things to come with the manic "Communication Breakdown" and the lumbering set stopper "Dazed and Confused." --Billy Altman ... Read more

Reviews (212)

The first re-birth of blues
A lot of people look down on Led Zeppelin for their use of not-so-original lyrics. This album contains quite a few blues rip-offs lyric-wise, however, it more than makes up for it with the raw power in which the band plays, and in which the band would come one of the greatest rock bands in history.

This album has a lot of blues, and many different styles. From the folk-tinged Babe I'm Gonna Leave You, Black Mountain Side and Your Time is Gonna Come, to the raw blues such as You Shook Me, I Can't Quit You Baby, and the fantastic finale jam How Many More Times. They showed signs of their direction in Communication Breakdown and Good Times Bad Times, which reflect on the heavier riffs that would come in the extremely popular album Led Zeppelin II. The one song that really shines is the immensly popular hit Dazed and Confused. This song seems to tell a story in the music... it begins soft and quiet with Robert Plant's vocals fluctuating from whispers to screams... and a while into the song guitarist Jimmy Page takes a short break on guitar (being played with a violin bow)... and the rest of the band comes back with a rejuvinated beat. This song is really quite a trip whenever I listen to it, and it remains to me the highlight of the album.

All in all, there is not a bad song on this CD. This album is a truly amazing debut by the band that took the blues and made it hard, raw, rock'n'roll.

A rare no-filler album.
I've always loved Led Zeppelin. I have 3 of their albums, yet I don't think they're the greatest band ever like a lot of people do. I don't understand the 5 negative reviews. Yes, I know they rip off blues. Everyone knows, SO STOP COMPLANING! Anyway, this is a perfect album. It starts out with Good Times Bad Times, which is the only single off the album. Very catchy, and very rocky. Yet it only got to #84 on the U.K. charts. Weird. Babe I'm gonna leave you is a great ballad/rocker song. I'm glad it's on the greatest hits. You Shook Me is pure blues, and John Paul Jones's organ solo is incredible. Check out the drum and guitar break. NOW THIS IS HARD ROCK! Dazed and Confused is pure hard rock, with a touch of Pink Floyd before they were popular. Great effects with the violin bow. Then there's Your Time Is Gonna Come. Despite the way-too-long organ intro, this is a nice singalong folk song. Black Mountain Side is my favorite since i'm a guitarist. Good chord usage. Communication Breakdown is a fast energetic rocker. I agree with the guy who said that this is close to punk as they'll ever get. I Can't Quit You Baby has some amazing singing by Robert and great slide work by Jimmy. Did I mention that the drums rule on this album? John Bonham IS the drummer. He breathes and lives on drums. Then there's the great How Many More Times. Excellent. Nice bass line. It's phychadellic blues! How strange. The whole album is great, and i sinks bands like Limp Bizkit and Distirbed into the ground. Enjoy.

The Beginning Of It All
Yeah, this is where it all began for the mighty Zeppelin, and what a great first album! It's also probably their rawest, but it's still great and you don't need to skip any tracks either. It's also amazing that they even recorded this before they actually had a record deal. "Good Times, Bad Times" is a killer opening track because it showcases every musician's talent very well. You've got great guitar work by Jimmy Page, excellent bass lines by JPJ, great drum work by Bohnam, and of course Plant's vocals are also showcased well. "Babe I'm Gonna Leave You" starts out in a folksy acoustic way, then crescendoes into the full band (a precusor to "Stairway"), and another killer track. "You Shook Me" is a great workout of a Willie Dixon standard and features great guitar solos by Page, great organ solos by Jones, and pretty good harmonica by Plant, but then it transitions into "Dazed and Confused," arguably the best track on the album. You've got a classic bass riff to start it out, then you've got Page's violin bow solo in the middle, and then the guitar solo to finish it out. It provides the template for their improvisation that they did in concert, where they usually stretched it out to about 30 minutes. Another interesting note is that the Yardbirds performed this song, with different lyrics, under the title "I'm Confused", and it actually sounds pretty close to this version. "Your Time Is Gonna Come" is another stellar track beginning with an organ solo by John Paul Jones. From there, the album moves on to "Black Mountain Side," a two minute instrumental with guitar and tabla, which makes for a very eastern-sounding song. It's also similar to Bert Jansch's "Black Water Side." "Communication Breakdown" is the next track, and is a real rocker that is even better played live. "I Can't Quit You Baby" is another excellent workout of a Willie Dixon song, and really demonstrates Jimmy Page's gutiar skills (his solos are magnificent). The last track is "How Many More Times" which is another great rocker that has some great solos by Page (he also uses the violin bow again, but he didn't use it live).

So all in all, this was the Big Bang that started it all for Led Zeppelin, and if you want to start a Led Zeppelin collection, you have to start here, not at Four Symbols, and not at II. You gotta start from the beginning, and work your way through the catalog.

Oh brother!!!
I sucked into buying too many CD by man at work who say they really good. Each one I listen to too many time and none good, this one too! Man who sing the song sound like a woman, like a woman feeling painful. And too much scream and yelling. Wish I could take back. My english not so good but my music taste very good and know this CD not so great! Songs all sound like same too. Just scream and yell, loud guitar, too much noise. Not good!

VERY IMPRESSIVE ZEP CD
I bought this CD last, after In Through The Out Door. If I would of known how good of a CD LedZep1 was before I bought In Through The Out Door, I would of bought it first.
This CD has some of my other favorite Led Zeppelin songs (every CD holds about 5 for me..), such as Good Times Bad Times, where the Pagemaster roars out his riffs in perfect tune and John Bonham bangs away at those bass drums.
Another favorite off this album is Communication Breakdown. This may of been the very first song I heard by Zepp (either that or Stairway to Heaven, though it probably was Communication Breakdown). This song has so much energy inside it. Every time I listen to it, it makes me wanna headbang.
But, out of every song on the album (and there's not a huge amount either....), my favorite song would have to be Dazed and Confused. I first heard this song at my friends house. I then heard it again on a movie I saw. The song became attached to me.I think the lyrics are very cool and Jimmy Page does a wonderful guitar (again) on the guitar.
The people that give this album 5 stars are absolutely correct. Anyone who gives less doesn't appriciate Zepp for their true music talents. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

After flirting with heavy guitar rock ("The Man Who Sold the World") and lighter pop ("Hunky Dory"), Bowie found middle ground on Ziggy Stardust. The creation of the Ziggy Stardust persona would live on well after Bowie shed the alien skin, marking the first rock concept album by a sexually ambiguous, artistically bent musician who confounded critics at every turn. A blend of dramatic strings, swaggering saxophones, jagged guitars, and theatrical arrangements, the album's darker rock numbers like "It Ain't Easy," "Moonage Daydream," "Ziggy Stardust," and the irresistible "Suffragette City," still serve as solid excursions into the future (then and now) of rock. The buoyant "Hang on to Yourself" and the dreamy "Star" offer hints of optimism in Ziggy's bleak world. The dramatic "Rock 'n' Roll Suicide" and the image-heavy "Star Man" ("he'd like to come and meet us but thinks he'd blow our minds!") no doubt provided plenty of stage-worthy moments when Ziggy toured in the '70s, but years later they still thrill. Bowie blew our minds!--Lorry Fleming ... Read more

Reviews (117)

Starman or Candyman?
For some reason Ziggy Stardust is always referred to as a concept album. But let's track that plot for a second: the world's going to end in five years, so a starman becomes a rock star and then commits suicide. O-kay, Dave, that's a story with mythic resonance. So let's face facts. There's a reason this has never been made into a movie: it's a concept album lacking a unifying concept. There. The cat's out of the bag. Now let's move on, shall we?

Musically, this is an interesting album because it really demonstrates how much a strong instrumentalist can add to a song. David Bowie writes wimpy, Anthony Newley-esque showtunes - and this album is full of them - but Mick Ronson's guitar turns these slight throwaways into muscular rock anthems (of a sort). His guitar solo in Moonage Daydream makes it worth suffering through the song itself. If this album was just about Bowie and his melodramatic songcraft I'd give it maybe two stars and try to avoid ever hearing it again, but Ronson and the Spiders From Mars miraculously pull it out of the trashbin.

Let the children boogie
David Bowie's arrogant excursion into concept albums paid off handsomely with "Ziggy Stardust". Five years before the end of the earth, a space-travelling rock star called Ziggy Stardust and his band the Spiders from Mars, came to this planet to rock out. Ziggy played fantastic songs, became famous, and Ziggy killed himself. Hmmm, interesting correlation between Ziggy and Kurt Cobain? Or is that just me...
David Bowie has had a long career of making fantastic albums, and though this album is his most well-known, it isn't necessarily the best one. However, there is no disputing the fantastic rock/glam/pop songs that Bowie was writing at his zenith (remember, he was producing Iggy Pop's "Raw Power" and Lou Reed's "Transformer" at this time). An essential part of rock history that spawned countless imitators, but never an equal. Don't lean on him man, cuz you can't afford the ticket.

One of Bowie's finest efforts
The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars (1972.) David Bowie's fifth album.

By the time 1972 came into being, David Bowie had already experimented with more musical sounds than most artists end up experimenting with in their entire careers! His 1967 self-titled debut featured oldies-style pop reminiscent of Donovan, 1969's Space Oddity featured somewhat of a folksy-rock sound, 1970's The Man Who Sold The World experimented with a harder rock sound in many places, and 1971's Hunky Dory experimented with the popular pop stylings of that era. Although these were all good albums, it was pretty obvious that Bowie had yet to discover his sound. It was in 1972 that Bowie switched over to the subgenre of rock that would make him a living legend - classic glam rock. 1972 featured the release of what would be his biggest album released to the time - The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars (could he have possibly come up with a longer title?) Would his first attempt at glam rock be an earth-shattering success, or would it leave Bowie out in the cold? Read on for my review.

This was David Bowie's first true five-star album. Some musical artists come of age as soon as their career starts, but some of them are seriously late bloomers. David Bowie is a late bloomer, but after listening to this album, you'll agree - it was worth sitting through four mediocre albums just to be able to hear this one! Two huge hits emerged from this album, the most obvious one of which being the title track. This is a stripped-down, acoustic track - not what you'd expect Bowie to do, but he does it excellently. The other fairly big hit is Suffragette City, one of my favorite Bowie songs of all time. It's a fast paced hard and heavy blues-based rocker with a backing piano track. Why can't every artist makes songs as cool as this one? Bowie explored many styles on his earlier albums, and this album brings all of those stylings together in perfect harmony. Many people say that this album is to the early seventies glam rock uprising what The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper was to rock and roll of the late sixties, and I agree with this. In the end, Ziggy Stardust stands as one of Bowie's crowning achievements.

This album has been released a ton of times over the years. But the three main versions of the album available (as of June 16, 2004) are the standard domestic version, the two-disc deluxe edition, and the foreign Rykodisc reissue. Dont bother with the Rykodisc reissue, it only has a couple of bonus tracks, and it isn't worth the inflated import price. If you're just getting into Bowie, the standard, single-disc edition of the album will do just fine. But if you're a big-time Bowie fan, and you want to experience some lost treasures, shell out the extra cash and get the deluxe version.

David Bowie released a number of popular albums throughought the course of the seventies, but he'd never release another Ziggy Stardust. He'd come very close with several of his releases, but this is an album all in a league of its own. If you're new to David Bowie, this album would make an excellent starting point in your collection. If you only buy one classic glam rock album this year, make it this one.

Glam Classic
The early 1970's: hippie fashion was dying, heavy metal was beginning, and the British glam rock craze was at its peak. This weird mix of pop and hard rock was all the rage at this time. And nobody did it better than David Bowie. Bowie's mix of piano, heavy guitars, and saxophones made a perfect mix. And on this album, he probably hit his peak. This is a concept album about an alien rock star who wins the hearts of all who hear his voice. Some of then tracks are really weird like the opener, Five Years, which is about the destruction of the Earth or something like that. The most pop tracks are 'Soul Love' and 'Lady Stradust'. The most rock tracks are 'Suffragette City', 'Star', and the title track. This is a glam rock classic and everyone should own it.

A Rock and Roll Classic
I'm not a huge Bowie fan, but any fan of early 70's rock should have this. Suffraget City is worth the price of admission alone, and the album is solid throughout. An easy addition to the "essential" list. The CD version sounds great, too. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This compilation repeats seven tracks from 1988's Money For Nothing anthology. Given that Mark Knopfler and crew have recorded one new album during the decade between best-of collections, how different could Sultans of Swing be? For one thing, CD dominance has made for longer compilations, and this one is fleshed out by singles, three tracks from 1991's On Every Street, and Knopfler's solo "Local Hero" theme, performed live. More importantly, the second track here is the band's terrific second single, "Lady Writer," previously only available on the otherwise dismal Communiqué LP. Five tracks from Dire Straits' huge Brothers in Arms LP appear here, but only two tracks surface from Making Movies, the group's pinnacle achievement. Ultimately, if you own Making Movies and this compilation, you own the essential Dire Straits. --Bill Holdship ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Disappointing and not helped by some unnecessary editing...
Make no mistake, Dire Straits made some classic material and all their studio albums (with the possible exception of On Every Street) were first rate, and Mark Knopfler is one of the most talented guitarist and songwriters around as well as a brilliant lyricist. Dire Straits were seen as much more of an 'albums' band than a singles band.

However I found this 'Best of' compilation disappointing; it is not a good reflection of the group as a whole. 'Sultans of Swing', 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Tunnel of Love' are all here, but most of the remaining tracks are either edited or not worthwhile enough inclusions which is where this set falls down.

'Twisting By the Pool' is a thoroughly cheesy song which sits uncomfortably with most of the groups other material with its appalling lyrics!. A dud live version of a track which was appealing in its original studio form is also included with 'Love Over Gold'. 'Money For Nothing' is not only edited but the second verse is omitted here. Ditto 'Brothers In Arms', as a result the brilliant guitar solo at the end is omitted. Other tracks which were not included but should have been are 'Skateaway' (from Making Movies), and the superb 'Telegraph Road', which was one of Dire Straits' best songs ever.

Probably the best answer to this would be a double CD (like Billy Joel's Greatest Hits package among others). You're better to collect the original studio albums (and possibly the live ones too) than buy this, and Knopfler's solo albums are also worth considering.

amazon critic is one big -MORON
"Communique" is a dismal album aside from "Lady Writer" ? Get real you clown. That's maybe the best ever Dire Straits album & has maybe the 3rd best Dire Straits track ever--after "Sultans of Swing" & "Wild West End," (another essential track not on this comp)--& one of the greatest songs ever written: "Once Upon A Time In the West," which isn't on this comp. This guy should be serving Fries, not reviewing albums if he's that tone-deaf & that clueless about rock'n'roll.

This comp. is a great intro & is designed to be just that. Especially awesome is the "Local Hero" track included which only more hardcore fans know about. They knew what they were leaving out & they left out exactly songs cool enough to make people whose interest is piqued pick up masterpieces like "Communique" & "Making Movies" & "Dire Straits 1978" for the rest of the gems. MAKE SURE that you do that if you dig this best of, because this is only part 1; parts 2-5 are on all the individual 1970s & 1980s albums. Any one great song on those is easily worth the price of 2 albums & there is nothing but great songs on them from beginning to end.

I love some of these songs
I am originly a country and Christian music fan. There are some classic rock bands that I like. I love some of these songs. My favorite is Tunnel of Love. This is a good song. One problem, I wish it were longer, I love the instrumentel at the end and wish it were longer. Sultans of Swing is also cool, and so is Walk of Life. I'm 16, but I can't do the adult review. God Bless

EDITED!!!
I realize that they had to edit this CD in order to put all the tracks on it...that's clear. My advice to all of you is to do what I did. Download all of the full versions of every song on the album minus "Private Investigations" and "Local Hero/Wild Theme". Leave those 2 songs off and you will have enough room on your blank CD to put the rest on it. The reason for eliminating these 2 tracks is....1. "Private Investigations" has no beat or rythym to it at all and is a boring song...and 2. "Local Hero/Wild Theme" is a cover of a solo working by Knopfler, so why is it even on here. Go buy the album "Screenplaying" if you want to hear that song. Do this and you will have a perfect Dire Straits "Best Of" CD.

Almost perfect collection.
This may be missing a few tracks, but for the casual fan, it should be just what you want. I got this recently and ended up knowing about twice what I thought I would, and what I didn't know I now like as well. It's top-notch 80's/classic rock, with great guitar and lyrics. Included are the huge hits "Walk Of Life", "Sultans Of Swing", "So Far Away", and "Your Latest Trick" live. Other good ones are "Romeo And Juliet", "Calling Elvis", and "On Every Street". My only complaints are that "Money For Nothing" is edited, and that "Twisting By The Pool" seems out of place, it's kind of cheesy. But otherwise, this is what you want if you're looking for your first, or only "Dire Straits" cd. ... Read more

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How John Lennon's confessional song became the title for a silly JamesBond spoof I really don't know.The funny thing is, it works both ways--as ayoung man's personal statement about learning to open up to others, and as thefrantic theme for an exotic espionage chase comedy starring those lovable mop-tops (this time in color). Like A Hard Day's Night, only the first"side" of this album actually contains songs from the movie--thebiggest hits being the eponymous cry for assistance and "Ticket toRide."But part 2 has a few nice tunes as well, like "It's OnlyLove," "I've Just Seen a Face," and a little ditty called"Yesterday."And I always love it when they do an all-out screamerlike "Dizzy Miss Lizzy," which sounds like John's raucous answer toPaul's "Kansas City/Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey" vocal on Beatles forSale.Of course, it's essential--as are all the Beatles' soundtracks (allthe Beatles' albums), with the possible exception of YellowSubmarine. --Jim Emerson ... Read more

Reviews (178)

Half Soundtrack, Half Studio, All Terrific
The Beatles' dizzying pace continues with their fifth UK album in two short years. [It was their ninth U.S. album!] Unlike the previous BEATLES FOR SALE, this album contains only two covers: the Larry Williams rocker "Dizzy Miss Lizzie" and the song Buck Owens had a country hit with "Act Naturally" sung by Lennon and Ringo respectively. These covers and the other five tracks the cromprise the second half of this album were not used in the movie. However, it includes what is probably the most universally recognized song in the Beatles' catalog, McCartney's lovely ballad "Yesterday."

Lennon's soul-searching songs like the title track and especially "You've Got to Hide Your Love Away" clearly show the influence Dylan was having on his songwriting. Harrison also gets a couple of his songs onto the album: The lovely "I Need You" and the infectious "You Like Me Too Much." McCartney also offers the standout tracks "The Night Before" and "Another Girl."

While not as good as the two albums to follow, this is nonetheless a terrific album in its own right. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

A classic of the 60's music
1. Album Cover: Just resembles one of scenes of the Help movie. Not a creative cover, however it rates well compared to other album covers released during 1965.

2. Composition & Recording: An album with great compositions (like in A Hard Days Night) which expanded their music style and evidenced improvements in their interpretation when compared to their 4 previous albums. Track highlights include the great vocal harmonies, great melody, and catchy fast tempo in "Help" and "You are Going to Lose...". John reveals his appreciation (he would have never let me use admiration)for Dylan in "Hey, You've Got to....". Also on this album, "Ticket To Ride" introduces a "heavier" sound than that normally heard in 1965. Paul plays the electric guitar solos on "Another Girl" and "Ticket to Ride". Harrison introduces a great song with a very 60's atmosphere. On side "B" (UK catalog please), Paul introduces the classic "Yesterday", which evidences that behind the Beatles, John, Paul & George were also individual musicians. This album is 60's calssic. The song writing and the musical arrangements distinguish the album from the rest.

3. Originality: The Beatles had already introduced their "new" sound into the 60's music and many groups were already following them by either imitating or trying a different approach. As a result you will find the value of the album not so much in its originality but in its completeness and in that it evidneces a better integration of the Beatles as composers and players.

4. Final Message: This album is one of the main voices of the sound of the mid 60's and an interesting place to start listening to the 60's decade.

5. Other Data: Paul composed Yesterday on his home piano after waking up one moring with a jazzy melody in his head ("Yesterday" with a faster tempo). He thought the melody belonged to some one else and had to be reassured it was his own. Instead of the opening lyrics that say Yesterday...", in his head the opening lyrics said "Scrambled Eggs..." That Would have cost Paul one star in my review if those lyrics would have been approved. The lyrics on Help were John's way to scream for help during his "fat Elvis" period (as described by John himself)as he found himself unsecured, famous, rich, popular, chubby, and unhappy.

Help
The last great Beatles album, released in 1965, the year they reached their peak of creativity.

Still on top
If you've read my review of "Beatles For Sale", you know I consider it a classic, but there's no doubt many people find it disappointing due to its "sad" feel and dark, depressing songs. On "Help!", the shockwave of pain and pressure from "Beatles For Sale" is still being felt a little bit - the album has a few covers and many of the songs (the title track, obviously) deal with rejection and surrender. For the most part, though, "Help!" is a "return to form", if you will, and is noticeably brighter and more dynamic than "Beatles For Sale".

This is mostly due to the contributions of Paul McCartney. While he remained somewhat reclusive on the previous record, he returns here with a strong and deliberate foot-stamp. He lets loose with rip-roaring rockers like "Another Girl", "The Night Before", and the jaunty "Tell Me What You See". But that's not to say he doesn't follow in the innovative footsteps John left from "For Sale". Embracing folk-rock like John did, he gives us the excellent "I've Just Seen a Face". And let's not forget the most innovative track - "Yesterday", which featured nothing but Paul's voice and guitar as well as some chamber strings.

John still makes his presence known, though. He continues his Bob Dylan obsession with the wonderful "You've Got to Hide Your Love Away" (a true standout). His weary and bitter songwriting from "For Sale" is still, to a slighter extent, in effect here. The pleading title track, "You're Gonna Lose That Girl", and "Ticket to Ride" are all somewhat somber lyrically (although they sound bright and happy musically). The happiest contribution from John is "It's Only Love". This song is often regarded as a "weak" or "filler" track. I disagree. It has a wonderful melody and very inventive use of a G+ chord. And, let's not overlook George's contributions. His two songs, "I Need You" and "You Like Me Too Much" are also regarded as filler. I *highly* resent this. They are *great* songs, as good as anything Paul and John cook up for this album. "I Need You" features a creative ending and "You Like Me Too Much" has a brilliant chord progression. George doesn't get nearly enough credit for his songs on the earlier Beatles albums.

The two covers chosen - "Act Naturally" and "Dizzy Miss Lizzy", are wisely chosen. The former is a great exercise for Ringo (another reviewer commented that his "aw, shucks" delivery is very "appropriate" - I agree), and the latter shows off John's great Rock and Roll voice.

Although it's not one of the Beatles greatest efforts, "Help!" is still an excellent album through and through. Pick it up!
~John Ballantyne

I just love this album
It's a very vibrant album but it's also laid-back. It has so many beautiful melodies and it also has some interesting and unusual ones as well. Let's deal with the best songs shall we, help!, the title track, is a classic, so is Ticket to ride and Yesterday is a fantastic little gem. Lets talk about the other excellent song here, firstly the two George Harrison songs. I thought I need you was a fantastic song and it has such an unusual melody and guitar effect. You like me too much is under-rated in my opinion and it also has an interesting yet beautiful melody. Ringo's cover of Act naturally is fantastic and of-course there's other excellent songs like you're gonna lose that girl, The night before, the Dylanesue You've got to hide your love away, which uncobvers the bands [and especially Lennon's] growing interest in folk music that would lead to them becomming a more Political group, and It's only love. All teh other songs are great if not excellent. This was their last pop album before they went in their own fantastic direction. But it's fun, interesting and shows them still willing to experiment. ... Read more

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The groundbreaking work of this British psychedelic-blues supergroup deserves more thorough study, but this 20-song compilation provides a useful overview for newcomers. Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker--virtuosos all--expanded the parameters of rock by incorporating a jazz sensibility into their distorted blues jams. This compilation mixes their odd original hits with a number of souped-up blues covers. The live version of Robert Johnson's "Crossroads" remains one of the greatest blues workouts a rock band has ever produced. Since Cream released only four albums, this set includesv most of the highlights, and it illustrates how Cream cast the seeds of heavy metal. -- Marc Greilsamer ... Read more

Reviews (55)

THE ULTIMATE SINGLE-CD COMPILATION OF CREAM!
Here is the finest of Cream - the 60s' mythical trio which gave rock a new definition and took blues as far as it has ever been taken. Eric Clapton's virtuoso guitar, Jack Bruce's mesmerising musicianship, Ginger Baker's guru drumming - it's all in this album, all at its best! Included are epic tracks like "Sunshine of Your Love", "I Feel Free", "Spoonful", "Strange Brew", "White Room", "Badge"... a non-stop succession of the cream of Cream, the 19 best studio recordings, topped up by the legendary live rendition of "Crossroads". It is remarkable that, untypically, the producers have made an honest effort to include all the best songs in the compilation, not leaving ground for "The Vey Best, part 2". The only problem with this release is it's so good (and that includes, at least to my ears, the sound quality) it will instantly make you want to buy all of the original albums - and that might as well be a wise decision. However, if you're quite sure you only want one CD by Cream, then, undoubtedly, this is it!

Cream of the Cream
In 1966, some of the best young musicians (literally, the cream) of the British music scene put together the ultimate blues supergroup. From the Yardbirds and John Mayall: guitar prodigy Eric Clapton (who was inspired to put together a trio after hearing a blues threesome album by Buddy Guy and Junior Wells); from the Graham Bond organization: Jack Bruce, bass, and Ginger Baker, drums. Over the course of three years, this amazing group absolutely redefined British blues, mixing in elements of hard rock, jazz, and even classical music. This compilation does indeed represent the very best of Cream, with one or two exceptions. Of course, all the classic rock FM staples are here: Sunshine of Your Love, Badge, Crossroads, White Room, SWLABR (translation: She Walks Like a Bearded Rainbow---did I mention Cream had a psychedelic streak???) Also, it is worth noting that even though Cream was a superb live band, only one live cut (Crossroads) is included here. Smart move, considering that in almost every case, the studio recordings are better than their live counterparts. Too bad this album is not quite perfect: "We're Going Wrong," must be counted as a good, but failed, experimental number, and "Anyone for Tennis" can be dismissed as a silly trifle. However, "Wrapping Paper," though atypical Cream, still sounds as fresh today as the album it came from. On balance, though, the album is a superb overview for the experienced and novice listener alike. After this album, the listener will want to skim through Fresh Cream, Disraeli Gears, and Wheels of Fire (you would do well to ignore Goodbye, Cream, which is a patchwork monstrosity). Trust me, you'll be all the "butter" for it!

The Cream: a mythological trio
Imagine the ensemble : Eric Clapton guitar , Jack Bruce bass and Ginger Baker in drums. This team is in the rock music something like The New York Yankees in Major Leagues.
Powerful rhytms , advanced ideas and keep in mind that every one of these super gifted musician were among the top list in every one of his instruments.
Think in classical rock themes as The White Room , Badge, In the sunshine of your love , The tales of Brave Ulysses or Politician.
If you're a teenager, or even not, this album is a must for you because it's a decisive turning point in the rock music .
Cream was a status ensemble and still we can feel his powerful influence in certain bands.
A must in your collection.

Extra Cream in the Brew
My first introduction to Cream was a song on the classic rock station called "Crossroads" and I loved the way Clapton and Bruce played the lead gitar/bass duo-melodies in the instrumental part, kind of like Yes did in "Then". Although I am not a fan of blues, I do like a beat and most of thier songs have a beat that sets them apart from blues. This collection spans thier 66-69 carear together(I was born only a year after thier last song was published in 1969 so I missed 'em.). Songs like "I'm so Glad", "I feel Free" Where Ginger Baker played his melodic drum kit, and the haunting "Tales of Brave Ulysses" as well as the ever classic hit "White room" and of course "Crossroads" are my favorite songs and easily stick in my mind enough for me to play the CD once more. Yes, this band can be compared to blues, but if you like classic rock I promise you'll love this!

Best.Band.Ever.
From the opening notes of Wrapping Paper to the end of Badge, this album is the best classic rock you will ever hear.I should call it rock because music today is just crap,especially compared to this.This album is the best you will ever buy.Their music is still as fresh as it was when it was released(The bridge on Badge stll gets me going).Being in a band with E.C., Jack Bruce was way underrated, even tough he wrote most of the songs.He's problably one of the best bass players of all time too.These guys made songs that made(still do)you want to get up, start playing your air guitar,and just rock out.Best.Band.Ever.(LOL) ... Read more

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Rod Stewart's career has been subject to so many twists that a single-disc overview is somehow both appealingly broad and inadequate to the task of tracing all those zigzags. From beloved rocker of the first order to disco dilettante to pop crooner, Stewart's career has presented challenges to fans who may have been charmed by the rollickingly randy "Maggie May" and bemused by the alarmingly narcissistic "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?" This 16-song retrospective touches all the bases without delving deeply into any era. The selections aren't arranged sequentially and the booklet is much more generous with vintage photos than album credits. This best-of collection is clearly aimed at the casual fan, but no album that presents Rod the Mod gems "Downtown Train," "You Wear It Well," and "Reason to Believe" one after another is a throwaway. --Steven Stolder ... Read more

Reviews (34)

Finally!
Rod Stewart fans have always been waiting for a definitive collection of Stewart's greatest hits. Although a "Greatest Hits" album has already been produced, the tracks included on that album are mediocre and are decidedly not all of Stewart's best songs. In addition to the songs on the "Greatest Hits" CD, Stewart's best music was scattered about in individual albums like "If We Fall in Love Tonight," "Every Picture Tells a Story," and "Vagabond Heart." Finally, however, the long-awaited "Greatest Hits" collection has arrived. True, "The Very Best of Rod Stewart" may not have all of the tracks that I would like to have seen on it, but it is definitely the most complete single-CD Stewart collection out there. I am very pleased to see some of Stewart's newer songs, such as "Rhythm of my Heart" and "Ooh La La" on this album. Of course, all of the old favorites have returned, including "Maggie May," "This Old Heart of Mine," "Downtown Train," "Reason to Believe," "Some Guys Have All the Luck," "Tonight's the Night," and "Forever Young." In my opinion, this CD is the best value out of all of the Rod Stewart albums so far. It is unlikely that Stewart will release yet another "Greatest Hits" collection, so unless you're willing to plop down a significant sum of money for the more-complete boxed set, "The Very Best of Rod Stewart" is probably the best album to buy.

The Hits, but not his best work
The casual Rod Stewart fan will love this compilation, since it fits neatly on one disc and covers his biggest hits. "Maggie May" and "The First Cut Is The Deepest" are rock classics, and hits like "Rhythm of My Heart," "Downtown Train" and "Forever Young" are memorable Stewart songs and outclassed much of what was on the radio in those years (okay, "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy" was awful in 1979, is awful now and always will be). But fellow reviewers are on the right track when they suggest that a two-disc collection might have been a good idea, because Stewart's early LP's (as well as his years with Faces and the Jeff Beck Group) provided some truly magical rock and roll moments. While I have little issue with the songs, you're doing yourself a disservice by limiting yourself to only the hits. Even though the box set "Storyteller" may cost three times as much, it has easily three times as much meaningful music.

Rod is forever young!
I had no idea who the Rod is until I moved to Canada. Although coming from a different cultural and language background, I found Rod's songs are romantic, inspiring and all his songs are bearing his unique voice. I bought both "It had to be you" and "The very best of Rod Stewart", however I listen to the later one very often as it collects many top hits of Rod Stewart.

Not only do I listen to Rod's song, but also I am deeply impressed by his continuous hardworking to refine his artistic styles while he is about to be 60 years old. I feel that I am greatly encouraged by him whenever I have a difficult time.

Rod, just like his song says, is forever young!

best of--but FORGETS his best song
This "best of" is done with class as well as "ENCORE-BEST OF 2". So I'm shocked that ROD's greatest song is left off of both HIT'S CD'S. The song is " STAY WITH ME", one of his best classic songs. My suggestion would be to REMASTER this hits and add "STAY WITH ME" as a bonus that is deserved to be on this close to perfect CD ( Along with ENCORE ). There is plenty of extra space for this famous and classic song. Do it Right ROD, and your fans will STAY WITH YOU.

a good greatest hits
The Very Best Of Rod Stewart is a good greatest hits collection but to call this the best of Rod is just wrong and a lie. Wears 'Madolin Wind' 'Mine FOr Me' 'Tomorrow Is A Long Time' 'Every Picture Tells A Story' 'Cut Across Shorty' 'I Know Im Losing You' 'Hard Road' 'Country Comforts' 'Twistin The Night Away' or the best Rod Stewart song of them all 'Gasoline Alley'

Lool I am sorry but you can not have a best of Rod Stewart without those songs, and if you dont have 'Gasoline Alley on there then thats just crazy, its his best song!!!! I would recomend this to someone who is just getting in to Rod or someone that just wants a 'FEW' of his hits. ... Read more

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Even as the Beatles began heading toward an inevitable breakup, their prolific ways continued; this two-disc look back only skims the surface of their later achievements. Excerpts from Sgt. Pepper, Magical Mystery Tour, the white album, Abbey Road, and Let It Be compete for space with classic singles that do as much or more to prove their eclecticism: the epic ballad "Hey Jude," the plaintive "Strawberry Fields Forever," straight rock & roll of all stripes from the plainspoken "Revolution" and "Get Back" to the surreal "Come Together." Decades after the split, this (and its companion set of 1962-1966 cuts) remains a favored introduction for young listeners and a key sampler for veteran fans. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (176)

Second half of their career together
While the first compilation contained 26 tracks lasting 65 minutes, this one contains 28 generally longer tracks lasting 95 minutes. The Beatles recorded fewer songs during this period so there are fewer obvious omissions. The best-known track from this period not included here is When I'm 64.

Of course, all their own British and American hits from the period are here, including Strawberry fields forever, Penny lane, All you need is love, Hello goodbye, Lady Madonna, Hey Jude, Get back, The ballad of John and Yoko, Come together, Something, Let it be and The long and winding road.

Also included are their own versions of songs that were hits for others, including With a little help from my friends (Joe Cocker), Lucy in the sky with diamonds (Elton John) and Ob-la-di ob-la-da (Marmalade).

As if all that were not enough, there are some brilliant album tracks, including my favorite track here, Fool on the hill. I am the walrus is a very silly song, but it has a certain appeal.

This is a superb collection containing almost (but not quite) all the essential Beatles tracks from the period covered.

Outstanding collection of the later years
You can't go wrong if you purchase this collection, along with the 1962-1966 compilation. Of course, why stop there?
I listened to my sister's copy all the time when I was in junior high, and was really bummed when she took it away. There are so many classics here that are essential to any music library: "Strawberry Fields Forever" and "Penny Lane" kick off with a one-two double-A-side punch. Next are key tracks from Sgt. Peppers, especially the haunting "A Day in the Life." Nearly everything from Magical Mystery Tour is here, please outstanding singles like "Lady Madonna" and "Revolution" and of course, "Hey Jude."
On CD 2, George Harrison finally gets his due, with "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," "Old Brown Shoe," "Something" and "Here Comes the Sun." I still thing "Something" is one of the most beautiful Beatles songs ever.
The Beatles had eclectic tastes, and each piece had something original, whether it was instrumentation, their use of voice, unusual lyrics, or just simple yet instantly memorable melodies.
Yes, the White Album is under-represented, and you miss out on the entire Abbey Road dynamic, but this collection has so much to offer.
Also, the liner notes include lyrics and rare photos of the band. This is a can't miss disk.

The Soundtrack of My Life
I have had this on 8-track, vinyl, cassettes, and now finally on CDs. These classic songs only get better with age. My favorite album - ever.

The Art of Great Compilations (and Sequencing)
Despite the number of releases in the late 90's with the Anthology series, the Beatles greatest songs have been compiled only one time in the last 30 years, in 2000's "1". It's fun to go back to the companion 1973 releases "1962-1966" and this "1967-1970" (28 tracks, 99 min.), and marvel in particular at the latter's song selection and sequencing.

While now a bit awkwardly on 2 CDs, the original double vinyl was the perfect package. The song selection is just about perfect, really. Nothing to take away from "1", but can you really call that the ultimate compilation of the Beatles when it doesn't have "A Day in the Life" (the definitive Beatles song?) or "While My Guitar Gently Weeps"? Maybe it's too soon yet after "1", but I really believe there is room for a 2 CD collection of the entire Beatles catalogue (greatest hits and essential album tracks) along the lines of "The Definitive Bob Dylan", a great example of how to use the full capacity of CDs. Is anyone with me on that?

The ONLY Beatles album in my collection!
And there's a good reason why! While the hits that propelled them to international stardom are the ones of which most "purists" salivate (i.e., the ones found on THE RED ALBUM covering 1962-1966), it is the latter stage of the FAB FOUR's career that I find most fascinating.

It was during this time that they were their most experimental, most challenging, and most controversial. Theirs was the music that influenced a generation and this showcases their most memorable tunes and provocative tunes.

I bought this three decades ago and still consider it among the best collections ever assembled. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Few albums are as fueled by hope, possibility, and the lure of the open road as Born to Run, a virtual concept album about small-town Jerseyites in search of a better life via hot-rodding out on the turnpike, scoring some small-time hustle, or blowing out of town altogether, either across the river to New York City or west for parts unknown. Songs like "Jungleland," "Thunder Road," "Backstreets," and the title track are epic productions, both sonically and lyrically, borrowing from Phil Spector, Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, and West Side Story. When Born to Run was released in 1975, it earned then-unknown Springsteen the rare honor of simultaneous covers on both Time and Newsweek. The attention was warranted then, and it still is now. --Daniel Durchholz ... Read more

Reviews (176)

Born to Run is tops!
Bruce Springsteen's albums preceding Born to Run suffered poor commerical success despite rave critical reviews, partly because of poor sound quality from the recording studio. At the time Born to Run was produced, Bruce Springsteen knew that if he did not create a great album, Columbia records were going to show him the door: the pressure was on! During the production of this album, there were various changes in personel: rock critic Jon Landau offered his help in producing the album, which caused a fall out with Springsteen's previous producer Mike Appel (a court battle on the matter of who could produce Springsteen's music raged after the success of Born to Run, causing the next album, Darkness on the Edge of Town, to be kept back for 3 years). One production arguement was on the capabilities of the recording studio Appel used. Landau acused Appel of using the studio for financial reasons only. This lead to Born to Run (the song), being the only song recorded away from the Record Plant, New York, a studio which had better facilities leading to a richer, clearer sound. The musicians were also changed; Vini Lopez, Springsteen's previous drummer was fired, replaced by Ernest Carter who, after the title track, left with David Sancious (keyboards) to form Tone. The space of drummer was replaced by Broadway drummer Max Weinberg and pianist Roy Bittan, also escaping from Broadway, which meant that Springsteen had a lot more professional lineup. The album starts with the soft twinkling piano of Roy Bittan and Bruce Springsteen's gravelly voice before breaking into the full band chorus of Thunder Road. The sound from this album has been likened to the crystal clear Wall of Sound of producer Phil Spector. The album continues through Tenth Avenue Freezeout, which has a distinct beat, not found on earlier Springsteen songs. This is probably due to the better technical capabilities of Max Weinberg. Some find that the song is too jerky, but I disagree. Night, the next track highlights Clarence Clemmons saxaphone work, but I feel it is a mediocre song compared to the first two. Backstreets begins with an extended piano introduction by the great Roy Bittan and his pounding Yamaha C3 grand piano. This is one of Springsteen's epic songs which lasts a long time and features Springsteen's poetic visions of teenage life on the boardwalks of New Jersey, however its messages are universal- anyone can relate to his songs, which is part of the reason for his success. Born to Run thunders in. This is probably one of Springsteen's best known songs, besides Born in the USA. It lives up to its reputation as possibly the song which saved Springsteen's career as a rock star. Everything Springsteen was in it. Poetic visions, thundering drums, layers of lush keyboards (notice that the keyboards are mainly electric pianos, which David Sancious seemed to prefer to play compared to the better (in my books) Yamaha C3 grand pianos of Roy Bittan), and electric guitars glistening in the background. Again, we find the next track is basically filler. Bittan thunders through the piano part of She's the one, the band play well but the song isn't up to the standard. Next is the film noir style Meeting across the River. It slowly works its way along with a hushed piano, acoutic bass, and a trumpet played by famous session musician Michael Brecker. This song creates the mood for Jungleland, probably the best Springsteen tune around. The two songs are usually played together live, just like they are on the album and they go together well to slower the pace from the franetic She's the One to the majestic Jungleland. It starts with strings and piano in a marvelous musical way opening up to Springsteen's epic tale of a street fight between a fleeing villain and the police. About halfway in the build up of tempo and tension is released by Clarence Clemmons massively powerful saxaphone breaking into an instrumental passage. The band are playing as backup to showcase Clarence's sax instrumental before it fades and Bittan plays a beautiful sweet piano solo. This culminates into an up tempo full band close of the song, the album, and Springsteen's image of a struggling artist under the label of a new Dylan. This is probably the best Springsteen album to date despite having one quarter of the tracks being mediocre. The rest of the album is superb and well worth investing in!

I love Bruce more than I love my dad
Born to Run is not his greatest album (that description should be reserved for "The Wild, the Innocent, and the E Street Shuffle"), but it's definitely where we see Bruce's poetry at its peak. Starting with the amazing "Thunder Road", the album charts his departure from the small towns in New Jerset to seek a larger audience in New York City.

The album is amazing. Thunder Road is an absolute classic. That song might be his best-written work. "Tenth Avenue Freeze Out" takes him into the city where he puts together his band. "Night" is amazing - every working man's anthem. I must say I'm not a fan of "Backstreets", but "Born to Run" was almost literally an anthem. Then, to close, "Meeting Across The River" serves as a metaphoric gathering of resources to prove his hometown detractors wrong. And finally, "Jungleland" takes the daunting task of taking over the NYC music scene by the short hairs and cements Bruce's standing as the king of music.

Can you tell I like Bruce Springsteen? I grew up with this music, but didn't buy my first Springsteen album until December 2003 at age 32. The music and poetry is staggeringly heart-felt, and this particular album makes the best use of Springsteen's empathetic narrative skills and shows his fans who's Boss.

Heady 70'sRock
This album is fantastic because it brings back to life those wonderful heady, heavenly, tranquil sunny 1970's days.
It is a real masterpiece released in 1975, but still popular today, with sound that is both timeless and rooted in those wonderful 1970's days.
My personal favorites are the rock n roll' exploration of frustrated loneliness and desire for excitement and life - Thunder Road, the bluesy reminiscence of a summer romance that went wrong in Backstreets, the pumping American biker title track Born to Run and the heady Jungleland.

A fantastic tribute to great music and a time of real meaning.

An epic masterpiece that will never die
Up until about 9 months ago I didn't know much of Bruce Springsteen outside of Born in the USA which is a great album but then I had his greatest hits album for about two years the only tracks I listened to were Born in the USA and dancing in the dark but then one day I decided to listen to the whole album I was amazed. I now own almost every album he's released. This one here stands above the rest. It has the power to get you through the hard times in life it's grabs you and never let's go some call this an overated album but their probaly jealous of the power this album has. I wished people now days would listen to something of this nature.In the past few years music has turned into an endless pursuit of sex and money. With Britney, Chrisina and Justin out their using sex to sell albums makes me wonder where is the heart that music once had. On tour the Boss makes a lot more than all of them because he's a descent human being who sings about the important things in life. A great example of a real American hero.

RUNNING SCARED
Springsteen is that rarest of characters. He's scared but hopeful, indignant but steadfast. How else to explain contradictions like "maybe we ain't that young anymore" with "we gotta get out while we're young" or "you ain't a beauty but hey you're alright." He can't reconcile these contradictions, but in the grand tradition of rock-n-roll that doesn't stop him from trying. And it is the trying that we see the angst of his soul. From the title track to "Jungle Land" the album reeks of a confused man in search of answers, who can't stand still long enough to find them. Like most rebels with a cause, his mission is righteous. Here's hoping when he solves the riddles he still has something significant to say. A ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's impossible to overemphasize the importance of singer-guitarist-songwriter Robert Johnson's contribution to blues music. The same can be said of Eric Clapton, one of Mr. Johnson's most dedicated interpreters. From his work with John Mayall's Bluesbreakers to Cream and beyond, Clapton has arguably attracted more widespread attention to Johnson's music than any other living musician. A decade after his all-blues From the Cradle (which included no Johnson material), Clapton jumps into the icon's catalog with both feet by covering 14 Johnson tunes. With a stripped-down veteran band that includes such longtime associates as drummer Steve Gadd, keyboardist Billy Preston, and harmonica ace Jerry Portnoy, the guitarist attacks these songs with passion, intelligence, and a refreshing lack of blues-rock pretense. From the upbeat jump of "32-20 Blues" and "They're Red Hot" to the slower, grinding "Little Queen of Spades" and "Milkcow's Calf Blues," Clapton acquits himself well, eschewing his slicker inclinations with arrangements that underscore Johnson's rawest tendencies--although perhaps he doesn't seem sufficiently terrified when walking with Lucifer on "Me and the Devil Blues." Still, this is a successful and admirable return to his roots, one that will hopefully introduce an even larger audience to Johnson's seminal work. --Hal Horowitz ... Read more

Reviews (182)

+ 1/2 stars...Clapton Shares His Vision of Musical Mentor
It's been ten years since Clapton's FROM THE CRADLE, where he paid tribute to such blues influences as Muddy Waters and Willie Dixon. But it's been decades since he last recorded anything by Robert Johnson, whom Clapton refers to in his liner notes as "the keystone of my musical foundation." In 1965, a 20-year-old Clapton first recorded Robert Johnson's "Ramblin' on My Mind"; nearly forty years later he finally releases an entire album of the blues legend's material.

On first listening I was disappointed by the polished feel of the recordings. Clapton continues to surround himself with top-nitch musicians, many have been playing on his records for years now, including Andy Fairweather Low and Doyle Branhall II on guitars, Billy Preston on organ and piano. Now, after repeated listenings, I can apreciate these interpretations for the intensity that Clapton found in the originals. Whether it's the smoldering version of "Milkcow's Calf Blues" or the ragtime bounce of "They're Red Hot," the purity of the music shines through. What fans (and my fellow reviewers) need to remember is that Clapton didn't record this album with the idea of replicating Johnson's original recordings, but rather to offer his vision. In his liner notes Clapton says Johnson's music "is like my oldest friend, always in the back of my head, and on the horizon." With this album, Clapton shares that friendship. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

So-so
To me "Me And Mr Johnson" is neither very bad nor very good.
The arrangements are mostly acoustic, with some electric numbers thrown in for good measure, but almost every song is recorded using a full band which includes drums, keyboards, and two or three guitars. Whether or not you consider that an improvment is a matter of taste, I suppose...a few of the arrangements are certainly too cluttered for my taste, and considering how good Clapton's last pure blues album, "From The Cradle", was, "Me And Mr Johnson" is a bit of a disappointment. And the sound is surprisingly mediocre...it's flat and dull, certainly not what you would expect from a 2004 release. Or maybe mine is a Monday pressing.

Hardcore Clapton fans will probably want to check it out, but most people would be better off listening to Robert Johnson playing Robert Johnson, rather than spend their money on these indisctinct performances.
2 3/4 stars. Proceed with caution.

Where god came from...
In the beginning, there was Robert Johnson. And he was great. He wrote some of the tastiest blues songs ever put down on tape.

In the sixties, Eric Clapton rose to guitar divinity with John Mayall and a band named 'Cream. He became one of the most respected in a long line of guitar hero's.

Me and Mr. Johnson is Clapton's homage to his mentor. It is a reworking of the primitive original delta sound of Robert Johnson into the smoother interpretations of ERic Clapton. But the result is, in my opinion, the best Eric Clapton album since From The Cradle.

This album will grow on you. Listen to it at least five times before you make up your mind.

It is, in its own way, a masterpiece. Traveling Riverside Blues and Milkcow B