Amazon.com

The West of veteran TV writer/Deadwoodcreator David Milch is as grim as it is gritty, sprinkled with salty dialogue and punctuated by sudden brutality and raw sexuality. The original soundtrack cues by composer David Schwartz (represented here by his evocative show theme), Michael Brook and Reinhold Heil and Johnny Klimek play off that vision with often stark rootsiness. But it's the series' rich slate of songs -- choices whose inventiveness often rivals that of The Sopranos -- that consistently reinforce its all-too-human drama, if not the crusty veneer. This collection gathers the best songs from the series' first season, coloring the milieu with evocative hillbilly romps like Michael Hurley's "Hog of the Forsaken" and the a capella grace of Margaret's Native American "Creek Lullaby." But the collection's musical eclecticism stretches far beyond mere genre concerns, variously encompassing the nascent jazz of Jelly Roll Morton (a rollicking "Stars and Stripes Forever"), Delta blues of Bukka White and Mississippi John Hurt and even Gustavo Santaolalla's hypnotic Brazilian fretwork. But the collection's country and folk-tinged performances are its most resonant, whether invoking earthy traditions (the gospel fervor of the late June Carter Cash's "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee's more heretical "God and Man") or more contemporary stylings like Lyle Lovett's "Old Friend" and the gentle "Twisted Little Man" by Michael J. Sheehy.--Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great companion to the show
Since Carnivale is in such dire straits, I've really gotten into this HBO show, which serves as a good replacement in my heart. For those not in the know, its a gritty, violent western that takes place in the gold-mining camp of Deadwood, where famous names like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane traipse through. I knew I would enjoy the soundtrack, as it had a lot of blues and country stuff I was familiar with. June Carter Cash singing 'Will the Circle Be Unbroken' would turn even the most hardcore atheist into a believer, and the Bukka White and the Jelly Roll Morton tracks were great too, but there were so many other amazing surprises on it for me. Top song is called 'Hog of the Forsaken' and is this nuts piece of fiddle and yodel and lunatic lyrics. I loved it. There are other tracks on the CD that are good songs, but do not work within the context of the show, specifically 'Twisted Little Man', which doesn't sound very western at all. Still, a high quality selection of tracks, and the show soundbites on the disc, which contain more cussin' then Tarantino in the shower, are great too.

Dusty, grim and sometimes poignant (like the series)
As a fan of the series Deadwood, I found this soundtrack CD to be both satisfying on its own merits and a successful evocation of the spirit of the series.It contains a lot of authentic American music that has the traditional feeling appropriate to the Old West setting of the show.There's gospel, folk, country, blues, and many pieces of miscellaneous instrumental music.It's telling that when the music producers wanted a true-sounding version of "Will The Circle Be Unbroken," they went to the source, June Carter Cash.I also like the fact that they filled their show and this disc with many excellent songs by relatively unknown artists like Mark Lee Scott and Michael Sheehy.However, I think my very favorite music from the CD are some of the instrumentals, especially the themes by Gustavo Santaolallo and the great Michael Brook.In between the music, there's also a great deal of dialogue samples from the show -- and that's what gives the CD its parental advisory label.(The presence of strong language in those dialogue samples will be no surprise to anyone who has seen Deadwood!) ... Read more

Amazon.com

Those who enjoy the adventurous eclecticism of traditional Top 40 radio should welcome this diverse, 20-track compilation of some of 2004's most memorable hits. Anchored by U2's energetic return to roots, "Vertigo" and Gwen Stefani's rock-of-the-80's-channeling solo breakthrough "What Are You Waiting For," it goes on to dish up everything from the teeny-pop angst of Lindsey Lohan's "Rumors" to the further adventures of Mr. Dizzle, Snoop Dogg himselfizzle (with an assist from Pharrell), on the typically laidback groove of "Drop It Like It's Hot" and the unlikely, country-urban fusing duet of Nelly and Tim McGraw on "Over and Over." The collection continues that contemporary R&B bent via hits like Omarion's "O," Ashanti's "Only U" and John Legend's "Used to Love U." Yet it also makes room for performances as disparate as Howie Day's emotive, adult-alternative standout "Collide," Hoobastank's slick Cali-pop, the modern rock of Chevelle and Three Days Grace and Lenny Kravitz chunky-rhythmed "Lady." Frickin' A serves up a faithful cover of Rick Springfield's "Jessie's Girl" that preserves the infectious schlock-charm of the 80's original,while the spunky pop-punkof Canadian Skye Sweetnam's "Tangled Up in Me" and Australian Keith Urban's '04 contempo-country standout "You're My Better Half" close the anthology out on a upbeat, international note. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (64)

Now 18: still good and prob. willalways be
Let me break it down for you....yeah yeah were already on the 18th Now thats what i call music cd & they have been coming out quicker and quicker. When i first saw the cd all the songs looked bad and i had never heard of but after i bought it and listened to it i liked all the songs so if you dont got it then get it!!!!!

This is alright
They actually started now 18 off with no rap! They put u2 first, when u2's usually closer towards the end of the album in previous nows. lindsay lohan's and good charlotte's songs have the same meaning, & they both suck. snoop dogg, destinys child, nelly, frankie j, & howie day r overplayed. chevelles alright, and 3 days grace sucked. every 1 else gets luke warm ratings from me.

Heres what now 19 should pretty much look like:
1. Rich Girl- Gwen Stefani
2. Dont You- Pussycat Dolls
3. 1 Thing- Amerie
4. Get Right- J. lo
5. Dont Phunk With My Heart- Blackeyed Peas
6. Oh- Ciara f/ Ludacris
7. Like You- Daddy Yankee
8. Girl- Destinys Child
9. Baby I'm Back- Baby Bash
10. Lonely- AKON
11. Goin' Crazy- Natalie
12. Incomplete- The Backstreet Boys
13. Adams Song- blink 182
14. Helena- My Chemical Romance
15. Almost- Bowling For Soup
16. Scars- Papa Roach
17. Let Me Go- 3 Doors Down
18. The Clincher- Chevelle
19. Beverly Hills- Weezer
20. Live Like You Were Dying- Tim McGraw

Real Prediction List for Now 19.
Hope they make it better this time! There's been quite some omminissions off the last 2! Here's what most likely will be on...


1. Gwen Stefani- Hollaback Girl
2. Backstreet Boys- Incomplete
3. Black Eyed Peas- Don't Phunk With My Heart
4. Ciara f/ Ludacris- Oh
5. Bobby Valentino- Slow Down
6. J. Lo f/ Fat Joe- Hold You Down
7. Baby Bash f/ Akon- Baby I'm Back
8. Akon- Lonely
9. Amerie- One Thing
10. Natalie- Goin' Crazy
11. Shakira- La Tortua (Or whatever it will be in English)
12. Mariah Carey- We Belong Together
13. Rob Thomas- Lonely No More
14. Coldplay- Speed of Sound
15. 3 Doors Down- Behind Those Eyes or Let Me Go
16. Chevelle- The Clincher
17. Garbage- Bleed Like Me
18. Crossfade- Colors
19. The Mars Volta- The Widow
20. Lifehouse- You & Me

dumb kid...they flopped
flops that won't be featured on here as reported earlier this morning

-"over" by lindsay flophan 1hitwonder

-"do sumthin" by britney hasbeen

-"not that kinda girl" by jo1hitwonder jo

-"one word" by white girl who can't fight, is jealous of the hatees she hates, and is a 1-hit-wonder wannabe

Now 18 Is Good But Cant Wait Til Now 19!
Songs maybe for now 19
1.Dont Ya-Pussy Cat Dolls
2.Do Somethin'-Britney Spears
3.Over-Lindsay Lohan
4.Saturday Night-Aaron Carter
5.Incomplet-Backstreet Boys
6.Girl-Destineys Child
7.Lonely-Akon
8.#1 Spoy-Ludacris
9.Shes No You-Jesse McCartney
10.Going Crazy-Natalie
11.Dont Let Them-Ashanti
12.Not That kinda Girl-Jojo
13.Okay-Nivea
14.Dont Phunk With My Heat-Black eyed Peas
15.Err Time-Nelly
16.We Believe-Good Charlatte
17.One Word-Kelly Osbourne
18.So Much More-Fat Joe

... Read more

Amazon.com

Nomadic Southern evangelist Leon Followill may take soap suds to the mouths of the kinfolk wunderkinds--his three sons and a nephew--in Tennessee quartet Kings of Leon, whose second album spins enough cuss phrases and sexual allusions to leave Dolly Parton flushed. But the peculiar 20-something longhairs also fuel up on a filthy shotgun bass and relentless guitar riffs, complementing the delightfully discordant drawl of vocalist Caleb Followill to whittle a 35-minute grab bag of garage rock, English blues, sixties psychedelia, London Calling-ska, spaced-out country waltzes and front-porch, red-state revelry. Without revising its 2003 debut Youth & Young Manhood, producer Ethan Johns (The Jayhawks, Ray LaMontagne) steers the band down a similar mischievous road, integrating poles-apart rhythms and techniques into an energized jumble of rotating tempos and lyrical bombshells. Putting faith in earth-shakers like "Velvet Snow" and "Pistol Of Fire," the wound down and pleasing "Milk" and its yodeling cousin "Day Old Blues," the Kings ultimately escape Preacher Leon’s retribution, rendering him speechless--save for a simple "amen." --Scott Holter ... Read more

Reviews (85)

Sony-BMG are Twats, but KoL Still Rock
Firstly, in response to reviewers like FarkingBastage, it is perfectly acceptable to voice whatever concerns you have with a CD in your review. Readers who are thinking about purchasing the CD need to know not only whether the music is good, but also whether it's a royal pain to play the music on iPods or burn a backup copy for yourself. This is a product review, and there is no reason why it must be constrained to the music. If I feel like commenting on the album art, DRM protection, or anything else, then, it's certainly relevent.

In that vein, Sony-BMG needs a swift kick in the face. I use iTunes & iPod to play all my music. I have a new-ish Dell with WinXP, but, for some reason, programs like Easy CD CReator and Media Player don't recognize my CD Burner. It's some kind of glitch, because I downloaded other burning programs, and they work. iTunes also burns audio CD's. The problem, however, is that SunnComm's techsupport people suggest burning an audio CD with Windows Media Player, then ripping it with iTunes. This is their "official" solution!! Technical geniuses, I tells ya. So, since Windows Media Player is the only way to burn DRM-protected songs to CD, I'm screwed. I can't put these songs on my iPod. Nor can I make backup CD's in case this one gets scratched or lost.

In the future, I will avoid these "protected" albums if at all possible. Even now, I find myself wishing I could take the CD back and buy the tracks from iTunes Music Store.

However, on to the music. Kings take it to the next level on this one. I loved Y&YM---hearkening back to some real ballsy, gritty southern rock. Caleb Followill's voice is just so damn unique, and fits in with the sort of southern-rock-on-a-friday-night aura of the band. Aha Shake just seems tighter, more seamless, even if a few of the songs lack the hook that Youth packed over and over again. Nothing comes without a price, I suppose...but the rock-ness of Aha Shake makes up for what's lost in memorable riffs.

Oddly enough, I always seem to remember my least favorite track with these guys. On Youth, it was "Molly's Chambers". I heard about KoL through the Onion AV Club---not via the incessant radio airings of Molly's Chambers. Good thing, too, because if I had based my judgment of them on that most popular song, I'd not have even thought about buying the album.

On Aha Shake, my least favorite song is "Day Old Blues". I'm positive I'm not the only one. It starts with a slow, melodic poeticism. Then, like many other KoL songs, it breaks into harder/faster style for the chorus. The problem is, from that point on, the vast majority of the song is this annoying chorus, over and over again. "Dayo-Dayo-Dayoohhhh, Dayo-Dayo-Dayoohhhh, Dayo-Dayo-Dayoohhhh, a-BLOOOHOOO!" Repeat. Again. And again. One more time. Talk about a broken record...quite frankly, I am forced to skip over this track every time. What were they thinking?

The rest of the album is slick, rockin, heavy, but still spry on its feet. Highly recommended---but, if I were you, I'd buy it @ iTunes Music Store to get around Sony-BMG's annoying DRM mechanism.

Excellent music, terrible cd
i love the cd and listen to it constantly. however, the copyright protection is terrible. it is easy to google and hack it, but i just refuse to accept drm like this. i refuse to pay good money for a cd and not be able to use it the way i want to (i.e., put on ipod). i returned it. hope you do too.

BRILLIANT!
I find it interesting that most of the reviews for this cd are either 5 stars or 1 star. Ah, those crazy Kings of Leon. You either love em or hate em.Of course, many of the 1 star reviews are attributed to the capabilities (or lack thereof) of burning the cd to IPods and MP3 players, etc. While that may be annoying, I personally can't relate because I simply downloaded the album from the internet and it works just fine on my cd player.

And oh how fine Aha Shake Heartbreak truly is! On my first listen, by the time the opening track Slow Night So Long ended, I was grinning ear to ear. Finally a band that not only knows how to rock, but knows how to have fun! It's like the Beatles and the Stones have been resurrected through these kids. Every damn song on this album is sure to make you want to sing, smile, and... well, shake. Seriously, everytime I hear the drum and jingle bell intro to Taper Jean Girl, I want to get up and jump up and down on my car. If only I could do that while my car drives by itself.

Some people may not like these guys because of Caleb's voice, which is scratchy and pretty unintelligible. But once you get past the fact that you can barely understand anything this guy says, you come to realize it doesn't matter. This is pure rock n' roll, people. Best rock album I've heard in a LONG time. Best of 2005.

"Heartbreak" is right!
Kings Of who????I have not heard of this band until rumor had it they were touring with U2.Shortly after, I caught "The Bucket" on the radio and thought that it was worthwhile to pick up the album.Aha!Where do these great review from the likes of Rolling Stone come from???I wasnt only disapointed with the album, I have given serious thought of selling the album back.I love all kinds of music, especially alt rock.But this is beyond anything I've heard.Not worth it.

Quit Your Whining!
This is for all the reviewers who have complained about the copyright protection on this CD.Uhhh....you are stupid.But, more importantly, please stop reviewing the album based on the copyright protection.The copyright protection has nothing to do with the music itself.

If you hate the album, you hate the album, but the copyright protection has nothing to do with the music.

BTW, you dolts, I had almost NO PROBLEM copying this album to my hard drive and then copying it to disc.Yes, I DID have problems doing it disc to disc, but so what?Maybe you need to get a system better than Windows 98, maybe you need some better burn software...I don't know.Maybe monkeys are more computer literate than you.But, IT'S NOT THAT HARD, SO QUIT YOUR BITCHING!

I am giving this album 5 stars for two reasons.First, because it is awesome and doesn't resemble anything I hear on the radio today.The Kings are in a league of thier own!

Second, so I can hopefully help push up the rating of this album from all the bellyachers who gave it one or two stars on a criteria THAT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE MUSIC!It is too bad Amazon doesn't have moderators, because I would report all you people and have your reviews thrown out, sort of like a defense attorney raises an objection to a judge and claims "relevance".

Now go back to computer school 101 and get off this board!

Go Kings! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Lovely songs; Sleeper Film.
This is very nice compilation of thoughtful ballads, some of lesser known singers and writers.Travolta can carry a tune (it would appear).His singing meshes well with his character in this charming movie.All things considered, this is a rathr good, enjoyable film.I especially like the numerous literary references.I am commenting on both the soundtrack and film, as both are worry of listening and viewing.

Grayson Capps
This is an incredible soundtrack not to mention a great little independent film. Don't listen to the critics on this one because the majority of them are flat out wrong. There should be more movies like this with compelling stories, strong acting and sweet music. Much better than the blockbuster trash that's so prevalant today. Anyhow, check out the soundtrack if only for the great New Orleans singer/songwriter Grayson Capps -- who's a little known gem from that historic music town. The rest of the soundtrack is worthy too...with tracks by Thalia Zedek, Trespassers William (another little known band that is pretty incredible), Los Lobos, Nada Surf, lots of rare blues and two sweet little songs by John Travolta. I couldn't have made a better mix of music myself! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Reba McEntire's first album in four years finds the spunky redhead (and sitcom star) thinking like a singer again. Where she'd virtually burned out, doing too many albums a year, she's now thoughtful about her material, updating her repertoire with the hill-country radio hit, "I'm Gonna Take That Mountain," while also drawing on the kinds of meaty ballads that propelled her to diva-ness. If "Moving Oleta," a nursing home tale of love, is too squishy a topic for most folks, McEntire seems to be saying that it's high time we looked unflinchingly at a full range of relationships beyond the standard romantic fare. To that end, there's the woman-to-woman song, "My Sister," the pained adoption tale of "Secret," and the bittersweet "He Gets That From Me," a tribute to families who lost loved ones on 9/11.By the time McEntire mixes in some uptempo dance tunes, a gospel number, and a straight-country waltz, she's delivered an album that's a combination of all of the types of music she's recorded over the past 25 years. Thankfully she keeps her trademark vocal curlicues to a minimum, which allows guests Alison Krauss, Union Station vocalist/guitaristDan Tyminski, and Vince Gill to sweeten the sound. But it's really all Reba, in a very classy return. --Alanna Nash ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Reba Had Her "Room To Breathe", And Comes Back Fighting
This is the best Reba album from beginning to end since 1990's "Rumor Has It". Like "Rumor Has It" Reba had time between albums to focus on the album and put her heart into it just for the sake of singing instead of rushing to fulfill a contract obligation or contract quota.

Another reason this album stands out is because the material she chose is diverse in style, topics/themes and delivery giving the listener never a chance to become bored hearing the same thing over! (another characteristic of "Rumor Has It"

The styles of music presented on here are all the different types Reba did on her career journey of 25 years on previous albums except they are all on one album this time! from traditional country to contemporary country and back again to traditional in full circle.

Reba chooses songs take you on an emotional journey from sad, to happy, to feel good and toe-tappin'.

1. "Secret"- Classic Reba story social issue song talking about a middle age woman who regrets the "secret" she lives with daily giving up her son for adoption years before giving in to social pressures of the past for un-wed mothers. Vocally Reba tears into the song and mkes you feel the tear hit the page

2. "If I Had Any Sense Left At All"- Classic neotraditional style Reba from her 1984-1987 years; a powerful ballad of love gone wrong due to pride again pouring her heart and soul in to every line

4. "Once You've Learned To Be Lonely"- An outstanding song vocally and the message it sends. The vocals Reba pours out her heart and digs deep into the subject of how important it is not to accept to be lonely and sends out the message to become stronger a classic Reba theme

5. "Moving Oleta"- The BEST song on the CD! The topic is excellent focusing on the social issue of Alzheimer's and how the devotion,love and frustation of a spouse is during such an ordeal watching their loved one fade away that needs to be addressed in today's media! along with a great topic and message Reba delivers an impeccable vocal delivery which her emotional phrasing married with the deep subject brings you to tears! The heartbreaking emotion she puts in the delivery reminds you of 1984's "Somebody Should Leave" and 1991's "For My Broken Heart" as well as brings out the anger and frustration the spouse goes through! THIS SONG DEFINITELY SHOULD BE A SINGLE!

6. "Love Revival"- This is a very upbeat woman throw in the man's face song where I'm not taking anymore give me what I want reuniting lovers song delivered in a gospel jitterbug fashion with Reba delivering just enough emotion to get her point accross!

7. "He Gets That From Me"- an excellent selection given the times of our country. This song will definitely be relateble to all the men and women who lost spouses in 9/11 and who continue to lose in the current war. This song talks about how a child reminds his mother of her dead husband as each day passes. This song is definitely a winner which will touch many hearts and families.

8. "I'm Gonna Take That Mountain"- The first single off the album which Reba returns to country airwaves with the type of Reba music we all fell in love with years ago-a song of inspiration and empowerment in fiddle-and-dobro propelled country. And she takes no prisoners in doing either one; proving she is not going away without a fight!

9. "Room To Breathe"- Excellent theme of taking a sdtep back and reviewing one's feelings for another with Reba's timeless vocals darting up and down as a bird in flight

10. "Sky Full Of Angels"- Classic uplifting inspiratioional Reba song with a gospel twist. Very refreshing

11. "Somebody"- A radio hit just from the beat very easy to learn and is the type of song where the beat and melody floats in your head long after it is turned off the subject matter is how looking for love may be easier than it seems and may be staring you in the face!

12. "It Just Has To Be This Way" (duet with Vince Gill)- The two singers in their third collaboration 1989-"Oklahoma Swing" 1992-"The Heart Won't Lie" and now this one continue to prove that they make beautiful music together and this song is defiitely a chart topper! Reba & Vince duet= ENOUGH SAID

Reba takes "room to breathe" and comes back fighting !!,
This is the best Reba album from beginning to end since 1990's "Rumor Has It". Like "Rumor Has It" Reba had time between albums to focus on the album and put her heart into it just for the sake of singing instead of rushing to fulfill a contract obligation or contract quota.
Another reason this album stands out is because the material she chose is diverse in style, topics/themes and delivery giving the listener never a chance to become bored hearing the same thing over! (another characteristic of "Rumor Has It"

The styles of music presented on here are all the different types Reba did on her career journey of 25 years on previous albums except they are all on one album this time! from traditional country to contemporary country and back again to traditional in full circle.

Reba chooses songs take you on an emotional journey from sad, to happy, to feel good and toe-tappin'.

1. "Secret"- Classic Reba story social issue song talking about a middle age woman who regrets the "secret" she lives with daily giving up her son for adoption years before giving in to social pressures of the past for un-wed mothers. Vocally Reba tears into the song and makes you feel the tear hit the page

2. "If I Had Any Sense Left At All"- Classic neotraditional style Reba from her 1984-1987 years; a powerful ballad of love gone wrong due to pride again pouring her heart and soul in to every line

4. "Once You've Learned To Be Lonely"- An outstanding song vocally and the message it sends. The vocals Reba pours out her heart and digs deep into the subject of how important it is not to accept to be lonely and sends out the message to become stronger a classic Reba theme

5. "Moving Oleta"- The BEST song on the CD! The topic is excellent focusing on the social issue of Alzheimer's and how the devotion, love, frustration and anger of a spouse is during such an ordeal watching their loved one fade away which needs to be addressed in today's media! along with a great topic and message Reba delivers an impeccable vocal delivery which her emotional phrasing married with the deep subject brings you to tears! The emotion she puts in the delivery reminds you of 1984's "Somebody Should Leave" and 1991's "For My Broken Heart" THIS SONG DEFINITELY SHOULD BE A SINGLE!

6. "Love Revival"- This is a very upbeat woman throw in the man's face song where I'm not taking anymore give me what I want reuniting lovers song delivered in a gospel jitterbug fashion with Reba delivering just enough emotion to get her point accross!

7. "He Gets That From Me"- an excellent selection given the times of our country. This song will definitely be relatable to all the men and women who lost spouses in 9/11 and who continue to lose in the current war. This song talks about how a child reminds his mother of her dead husband as each day passes. This song is definitely a winner which will touch many hearts and families.

8. "I'm Gonna Take That Mountain"- The first single off the album which Reba returns to country airwaves with the type of Reba music we all fell in love with years ago-a song of inspiration and empowerment in fiddle-and-dobro propelled country. And she takes no prisoners in doing either one; proving she is not going away without a fight!

9. "Room To Breathe"- An excellent relationship theme song of taking a step back and reviewing one's feelings before taking the next step in the relationship with Reba's timeless vocals darting up and down as a bird in flight

10. "Sky Full Of Angels"- Classic uplifting inspirational Reba song with a gospel twist. Very refreshing sound!

11. "Somebody"- A radio hit just from the beat very easy to learn and is the type of song where the beat and melody floats in your head long after it is turned off the subject matter is how looking for love may be easier than it seems and may be staring you in the face!

12. "It Just Has To Be This Way" (duet with Vince Gill)- The two singers in their third collaboration 1989-"Oklahoma Swing" 1992-"The Heart Won't Lie" and now this one continue to prove that they make beautiful music together and this song is definitely a chart topper! Reba & Vince duet= ENOUGH SAID

Reba-Room To Breathe
Reba Has Had Some Great Music But This Has Got To Be One Of The Best Releases. She Just Keeps Getting Better And Better All The Time. She Sure Knows How To Pick A Song That Can Really Tug At Your Heartstrings Everytime You Hear It And Thats What This One Does.

One of Her Best Yet!
Nothing but great songs on Reba's new album "Room To Breathe." Among my personal favorites are I'm Gonna Take That Mountain, He Get's That From Me, and Somebody. Anybody that hasn't already heard or purchased this album is missing out big time. It just doesn't get any better than listening to Reba, and Room To Breathe is no exception!

Reba's BACKKKKKKKK!
Reba's Back with her new album. And to put it plain and Simple, if your a Reba fan, you'll like her new album a lot, if your an occassional listener, you'll still like it. Reba's new album follows her past musical patterns, and she scores with this album too. Good Job Reba! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Was it homesickness that compelled long time Los Angeles resident k. d. lang to fashion her one woman campaign for north of the border nationalism, or just plain good sense? As an organizing tool, all Canadian content has long been a mainstay of the Canadian Broadcasting System but few have selected their material with such a fine hand and a high aesthetic. The expatriate singer has taken great pains to create a sophisticated homage to her Canadian roots, elegantly reinterpreting 11 songs penned by some of her more illustrious countrymen (and women) such as Jane Siberry, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and Leonard Cohen. The idiosyncratic chanteuse turns Cohen's "Bird on a Wire" into an aching monochromatic lament, exploring new tributaries of pain that didn't exist in the original, while recasting Neil Young's "Helpless" into haunting anthem of memory and comfort, all the while sounding anything but helpless. A gorgeous love letter to her brethren, complete with an intelligent and understated orchestration. --Jaan Uhelszki ... Read more

Amazon.com

Famous since infancy for his legendary parents, Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter, Shooter Jennings arrives at his inevitable debut with the weight of the gods on his shoulders. He attempts to point up his heritage--rather than be crushed by the weight of it--by inviting George Jones and Hank Williams Jr. to appear in spoken-word bits which bookend the record. (The Possum also contributes a weak cameo on "4th of July.") But such shilling comes off as exactly what it is, and the listener knows to expect a song about how awful Nashville is and how modern country just ain't got no soul. Jennings does not disappoint--in fact, he's got a couple tunes like that (the Neil Young-based title track and "Solid Country Gold"), and he also obliges with an Outlaw penchant for self-mythologizing ("Busted in Baylor County," about being jailed for speeding and smoking). The younger Jennings doesn't have his father's commanding baritone, his mother's delicate balance of pathos and strength, or even their natural songwriting ability, though he blends Southern rock and hillbilly with ease, and demonstrates a wicked sense of humor on "Manifesto No. 1," in which sex and Jesus share equal time. But his uneven bow ultimately ingratiates for its honesty. In presenting a vulnerable self-portrait as a rootless, restless man, burning up the road to try to outrun his own heartache and confusion, Shooter honors his heritage in the best livin', lovin', and losin' tradition. --Alanna Nash ... Read more

Reviews (35)

gritty good!
The CD reminds us all that country was the first punk and the first thug. Shooter blends the best of outlaw country and rock to beget a true twangalicious flip-off to Nashville.

Crack open a Lone Star and enjoy.

Waylon would be proud!
Until this morning I had no idea what Shooter Jennings sounded like. I knew who he was but had never heard his stuff before. This morning though I heard a sample of his stuff and went out and picked this album up. This guy is good! The music on here sounds a bit more Lynyrd Skynyrd than pure country. The overall sound is a bit sloppy as well, but that is not a bad thing. The album sounds and feels very "real". It doesn't have the over polished sound that the stuff passed off as country today has. Everything about Shooter harkens back to the mid-70's hey day of his dad. In fact even the album cover has the look of a worn LP jacket. The album is just great, some songs are a bit better than others, but the album is honest and you can't argue with honesty. No question that Waylon is looking down and smiling. Jessi has also got to be very proud. If you like your country coming from some poster boy in a hat, you might want to pass on this, but if you like real country with a southern rock twist you'll love this album.

Enjoyable album...with an original sound
I bought this album after hearing the one song 4th of July, something I rarely do is buy a cd for just one song, but I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised at the album as a whole. Almost all of the songs are good and they all have a completely unique style and sound. There is something for everyone on this album. I could have done without the title of the album which is crude, but Shooter's sound does add diversity to what is now the norm in country music.

Promising
If you're looking for a Waylon soundalike, Shooter isn't your man. He isn't meant to be. His voice has a lot more in common with Ronnie Van Zant than Waylon. Listen to some early Ronnie (the Skynyrd demos, for instance) and you'll hear what I mean.

If you're looking for some great, rockin' country, Shooter IS your man. I'm not going to lie; the album is not perfect, but it shows a HUGE amount of promise. He has a lot of potential. I say his third album will be the one to watch. By then we'll know just what Shooter sounds like. I'm looking forward to seeing him evolve into a true star. The album does have a few spots that could be stronger, but overall, it's a fantastic debut album. Everyone's saying, "Hey, he shouldn't use his father's name to promote himself" or whatever it is they're trying to say, but they then turn around and judge him based on his father's work. That is wrong. Shooter's music shares an energy with Waylon's, but it doesn't really sound THAT much like Waylon's, and that's a good thing. We have already had one Waylon Jennings. Now it's time for us to see just what Shooter Jennings is capable of. I don't know about you, but I'd rather a second, independent Jennings than one Jennings trying to be another. Plus, could the world really cope with ANOTHER Waylon? :-)

This album deserves every one of the 4 stars I have given it. Giving it 5 would mean that there is no room for improvement. That's not the case, and seeing where he goes from here (no pun intended, Waylon fans...) will be very interesting. This young man has a bright future.


"In summary, a cheesy attempt to sell records to dissatisfied country fans who are fed up with Tim McGraw and Shania Twain by relying on your deceased father's image, name, and even logo (look at the front cover). An insult."

I must reply to that statement. It was posted by another reviewer and, in my opinion, it is absolute crap. Waylon's logo is on the album because Shooter is proud of his roots. I don't know about you, but if I were a recording artist and my dad happened to be one of my chosen genre's true legends, I'd be pretty proud of it too. Shooter has also had, for a number of years, a tattoo of that same logo. By the way, Waylon used to wear Starrgunn T-shirts on stage. It's a pretty similar scenario: Waylon, in some way, being associated with his son's music. What on earth could be wrong with that? Oh, and it's the back cover that Waylon's flying W appears on; not the front. If you want to nitpick, I can do it too...

As for the cameos, what is wrong with having two legends on your album?

In The Shadows, Part 2
Hank Williams, Jr. had the unheralded task of trying to make it as a country singer in his legendary father's shadow.Now, Shooter Jennings is taking on a similar task.No matter how good this guy is, he'll probably go to his grave being known as "Waylon's Boy" or get hassled by phrases like, "If it weren't for his daddy, he'd be just another loser."Well, much like Hank, Jr., Shooter Jennings self-titled debut attempts to come out of the shadows by way of Southern rock and a little hillbilly hash.

The album is actually very good.The title song shakes things up by firmly shaking a fist at modern country music.This is followed by some twangy Southern rock in the form of "Fourth of July," "Lonesome Blues," "Solid Country Gold" and "Busted In Baylor County."

The album's pace slows down a little bit with "Sweet Savannah."It almost sounds like Kid Rock if he'd grown up in Dothan, AL instead of near Detroit, MI.The rest of the album picks up speed, especially "Daddy's Farm," which may be a little tough to swallow for the kids who grew up on Garth, Shania, and Mr. and Mrs. Faith Hill.

The only moderate miscue is "The Letter."It just doesn't fit the mood of this album overall.It kills the steam built up by the songs that precede it, and makes the recovery effort, lead by the very Southern rocky "Southern Comfort," very difficult.

Hank, Jr. makes a cameo on Shooter's answering machine, and the Possum contributes a little flair early in the album.It feels more like Southern rock than actual country, but it's a whole lot better than what's being passed off as country these days.Jennings is more of an outlaw than Big & Rich could ever hope to be.Where those guys come off as "polished rebel," Jennings seems like the real deal.

Give this guy a chance.Don't write him off immediately because of his genetics.I don't know how far his music wil take him, but one thing is for sure, he's got a tough, uphill climb from here. ... Read more

Amazon.com

On There's More Where That Came From, multiple Grammy-winner Lee Ann Womack's got the controls of country's Wayback Machine set 30 years in the past. The album cover, a soft-focus portrait of the Texas-born singer along with a list of songs, recalls the days when elegant, emotive vocalists like Tammy Wynette, Lynn Anderson, and Tanya Tucker ruled the charts. Yet the real magic's in the traditional-sounding arrangements, colored by gently weeping steel guitar, piano, harmonica, and fiddle; unhurried tempos; and, of course, Womack's lightly sugared confection of a voice. She explores classic themeslike cheating ("There's More Where That Came From") and marital collapse ("Painless"), and draws on her own experience for "Twenty Years and Two Husbands Ago." Womack does concede a bit to the present with the dirty guitars and big rhythm of "When You Get to Me." But just a bit, as she proves the enduring appeal of sweet and sad ballads sung from the heart, and bucks the flash that makesso much modern country go pop--and fizzle. --Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

Reviews (63)

Womack Reclaims Country Crown
After the massive crossover success of "I Hope You Dance", Lee Ann Womack's record label apparently thought they could fashion the primarily traditionalist singer into a glossy pop diva on the order of Shania Twain or Faith Hill. They failed to take into account that her Dolly-like soprano wasn't the ideal fit for the kind of overproduced pop that those two traffic in.Nevertheless, SOMETHING WORTH LEAVING BEHIND arrived with Womack sounding primarily pop and looking like she was attacked by Britney Spears' makeup crew.Her fanbase(and radio)weren't having it, however, and the album(which was admittedly glossy but still sounded great)was met with a tepid-to-chilly reception by all concerned.So now we have THERE'S MORE WHERE THAT CAME FROM, which returns her to the traditionalist stylings of her first two albums, and is probably her best album since that period. Indeed, the country twang of the title track is highly reminiscent of such previous bests as "Never Again, Again" and "The Fool", while single "I May Hate Myself In The Morning" recalls the best of seventies-era country.There's nary a bad track here, and while "...Morning" wasn't the monster comeback it should have been, several other cuts have the potential to regain Womack's place on country radio("When You Get To Me", "The Last Time", and "One's A Couple" to name three).Ultimately, while I was fan of her previous record, it's nice to see Womack back doing what she does best.

Now this is music
I have heard nothing this mind blowing come out of Nashville since I don't even remember when. What Womack has created is a masterpiece where everything works. Nothing is overblown or tacky just pure and simple country music. This is what music should be and I think the title says it all "There's More Where That Came From." Now, since there's more...I'd like to hear it!!!

Beautiful country music
Lee Ann Womack is an amazing country singer. Her vocal stregnths are incredible. Four stars for her album, she did a good job!

I love this cd!
I cannot stop listening to this cd.I bought this disc the day it came out and weeks later I keep coming back to it.Upbeat, sad, funny, the disc has it all.All tied together with Lee Ann's wonderful vocals.This cd is definitely a keeper.

Oldokie
I have been listening to this album since I recieved it and I guarantee you there is not a "B" side on this album,if you want one of the best albums that has been issued buy this artist you must buy this one.
I especially like "Happiness" and "When I Wake Up In The Mornining".
I don't find anything negative to say about this whole album,It is definately the best she has made since she started recording.
I'm very proud to say that I definately Love this album and this artist. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Album 2 for the Aussie transplant and former member of the Ranch kicks harder than his debut and fulfills Keith Urban's goal of capturing the elusive "band feel." The solid arrangements are particularly well tailored to Darryl Brown's ruptured romance ballad "You Think of Me" and the swampy "You Look Good in My Shirt." Urban catches fire lyrically on the moving "Song for Dad" and "What About Me," a cautionary view of selflessness he cowrote with Rodney Crowell. That, unfortunately, is as good as it gets. While the Ranch enjoyed a cult following, Urban, who should bring an idiosyncratic side to his music, is clearly out to play Nashville's game. Proof? A preponderance of bland material aimed at pleasing radio consultants and programmers. Consider his original "You're Not Alone Tonight," replete with harmonies used on countless country hits of recent past. True, a banjo occasionally surfaces throughout the album. Nonetheless, reviving David Dunda's 1976 Top 20 pop hit "Jeans On" reveals much about Urban's true musical roots. --Rich Kienzle ... Read more

Reviews (328)

GOLDEN ROAD - a feast for your ears
I fell in love with Keith Urban's music after seeing him perform live. This CD lives up to the joy and energy of his stage shows. I've had three friends borrow this CD, after which they quickly run out to buy their own copy! GOLDEN ROAD, Keith's second solo album, vibrates with his musical talent, his fantastic guitar skills and his songwriting ability. Both "You Look Good in My Shirt" and "Jeans On" show Keith's playful side - you can hear his laughs and ad libs throughout the songs. The raw emotion in "You Won" and "You're Not My God" tear my heart out each time I hear them. And the uplifting "You're Not Alone Tonight" gives me hope and solace. The song "Somebody Like You" greatly deserves the number one status it earned on the charts. Bottom line, its a GREAT album. When asked which song is my favorite, I can truthfully say "All of them"!

This one will reap rewards and awards!!
What can I say that hasn't already been said? This cd is fantastic, it's all I've been listening to since Oct. 8th....even with recent releases from some of the top country artists, (and some of my favorites). I just can't get enough of the fluid vocals which have a soothing quality, the infectuous melodies and amazing guitar wizardry that shines through in the guitar solos. From the first track, the #1 song for 8 weeks, "Somebody Like You", through the rest of the album, Keith displays a range of emotions; one can't help but 'feel' the music, such honesty comes mostly from lyrics being written by Keith based on personal experiences. I have many favorites, including "Whenever I Run" and "Raining on Sunday" (slower tempo songs, great for indulging in a reflective mood), as well as "Who Wouldn't Wanna Be Me" and "You Look Good In My Shirt", which make me wish for a sunny summer day to hop in my car, open the windows, and crank it up. The only thing better is a live performance of the songs by Keith.

Golden Road is a Golden Hit
Keith Urban is a great guitarist and the catchy melodies of the albums allowes me to sit and listen to it time and time again. His wonderful voice only adds to the wonderful lyrics. He adds to the country scene a new and profound sound. Just make sure you listen completely through because he adds a silly, yet fun song at the end of track 12. That's right keep listening for a few minutes and you'll hear the secretive addition.

Great CD
This is a great Cd. I listen to it all the time at work. It's got a great selection of songs and I think that one of my favorites has to be the hidden song!

Awesome
I can't get enough of this CD. From the catchy hooks to the amazing lyrics, I have not tired from this disc yet. On some of the songs you can see Keith's rock influence as he breaks out with some great guitar licks. If you are comtemplating getting this disc, get it. You will not be dissapointed. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

50 Elvis Love Songs Can't Be Wrong
An idea that looked great on paper that sounds great on cd. 50 of The King's greatest love songs. With so many Elvis collections out there, there are only a few that are essential. This is one of them.

Disc 1 of this 2 - disc set features music mostly from the later period, but includes earlier classics "It's Now Or Never", "Surrender" and "Are You Lonesome Tonight". My favorite songs here include "It's Impossible", "I've Lost You" and the majestic wedding staple "The Wonder Of You". Also, don't overlook his mesmerizing covers of the standards "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'", "Spanish Eyes' and "Make The World Go Away". Their just as electrifying as any other version.

Disc 2 is from the early years. There are classics here like "Can't Help Falling In Love". Two tracks that I really liked are "I'll Rember You" and his version of Ray Charles' "You Don't Know Me". And don't overlook "Girl Of My Bst Friend" and "Don't" - romantic ballads at their best.

This is a great collection. RCA really knows their stuff.

As usual with RCA, a great idea poorly executed.
50 classic Elvis love songs on 2 remastered CDs. It must have looked great on paper. It's a collection that will appeal to the Elvis completist, the casual fan and to those who are suckers for a great romantic ballad. And since it contains songs of finding love as well as losing it, it should be able to touch all the bases. The title after all is "Greatest Love Songs" so this is the cream of the crop, right? Hmm...not if you ask me. I admit it comes close but not close enough. RCA has the ability to put all of the essentials and leave off the songs that don't work as well, so why don't they? This package does not include "It's Midnight", "I'm Leaving", "Hurt", "I Really Don't Want To Know" or "Loving Arms". But it has "Old Shep". A song about a dog. Whatever.

Definitive
Great collection of many of Elvis' love songs (or slower songs). Album one is the early Elvis, while Album 2 is the older, Vegas-style Elvis. Together, they offer a good look at these different stages in his muscial career, which offer very disparate styles. And with 50 songs, this pretty much covers all of the "love" songs Elvis had, so it's a fairly definitive collection. For that reason, it's a great buy.

oone out of two aint bad
I would rate this at 31/2 stars but i cant so i went with 3. The reason is that CD 2 is excellent and has really good picks and flows very nicely. I play this CD alot at work(massage therapist)and i get very favorable comments. If this was a review on this CD it would be a 5 i really love this CD. Things fall apart with the first CD. It doesnt flow but worst of all it picks some lame songs like Rags to Riches. Come on this was never an Elvis hit and is a lousy cut. someone fell asleep at the mixing board.
Being a BIG Elvis fan i expected more but like i said the 2cd CD is great so pick it up used and enjoy.

"An excellent collection."
Everyone's heard of the 'Elvis man'/ 'Beatles man' debate. In this world, you're either one or another; if you like '50s rockabilly, James Dean and drag racing, then you're an Elvis man. If you're an artistic hippie with long hair and a passion for India, you're a Beatles man. What with the death of George Harrison a couple of weeks ago, and Paul McCartney's new album releases, the Beatles men have been gaining popularity and notoriety. But it's here, with a re-release of some of Presley's greatest hits, that us Elvis men will prevail. While normally affiliated with his rock hits like "Hound Dog", "Jailhouse Rock" and "All Shook Up", 'The King' Elvis Presley was also an excellent love balladeer, with this double-disc 50-song set showcasing practically every one of those tunes, be it the heart-breaking "Always On My Mind", or the eardrum-breaking "She Wears My Ring". As with other recent Elvis releases, this album also includes a special previously unreleased 'alternate take' of a song, in this case it being the superior "And I Love You So", with Presley revealing in the beginning of the track that it was written for then-girlfriend Sheila Ryan. Strangely though, unlike other greatest hits, this album goes in reverse order, with CD 1 playing tunes between 1977-'69, and the second record hearing Elvis' earlier songs of '60-'56, with unfamiliar tracks like "Don't" and "A Fool Such As I" populating it. While we do admit that the CD could be cut down by at least 10 tracks, we must say that it is an excellent collection of some of the best tunes ever recorded. We hope that wherever Elvis is now, be it heaven, hell or on an alien spaceship getting anally probed, that he remembers how great a musician he was. ... Read more

Amazon.com

With her impeccable musicianship and consummate taste, Alison Brown takes the banjo far from its rural traditions. If this is roots music, it no longer has any dust on its boot heels, as she engages in sophisticated interplay with Stuart Duncan's soaring fiddle on "The Sound of Summer Running," takes a Celtic romp with Sam Bush's sprightly mandolinon "The Magnificent Seven," and fashions a tone poem of atmospheric impressionism in "The Pirate Queen." Though instrumentals dominate, guest vocalists include the Indigo Girls on a revival of Simon and Garfunkel's"Homeward Bound," Beth Nielsen Chapman on a spiritually radiant rendition of Jimi Hendrix's "Angel," Andrea Zonn on the folk ballad "One Morning in May," and Mary Chapin Carpenter--billed as "Thigdalia Boomchick"--backed by a female chorus of Boomchicks onBoo Hewerdine's "Prayer Wheel." Brown's eclectic synthesis of bluegrass/jazz/classical/folk/new age is closer to NPR than Grand Ole Opry, more fitting for Sunday brunch than a Saturday night hoedown. --Don McLeese ... Read more

Reviews (7)

good song Any Other Woman, bad Sony
I love the song Any Other Woman, but I always copy my CDs and use the copies so that the original is preserved from scratches and damage....I won't buy anything else from Sony.

Jewell's Arresting "Times"
Prime Cuts: Addicted to the Rain, Any Other Woman, Times Like These

While many lesser talents have opted for the route of mere hucksterism where snarling guitars and thundering percussions provide the cover up, Jewell has traveled down the tired and true road of well crafted songs performed with earnestness and verve.Inoculated against the current trend in country music to rave up the rugged and rockier side of the genre,Jewell and producer Garth Fundis (who has had produced albums by Sugarland, Keith Whitley, Don Williams and Trisha Yearwood) has kept the backings on the rustic side with plenty of fiddles, steel guitars and honky tonk piano.Such simplicity is the soul of wit as the spotlight is deftly on Jewell's sturdy yet warm baritone.On this sophomore effort, Jewell is vocally more in command: not only does he sing well, but he is vocally able to nuance the emotional depths of the lyrics to an even greater degree.

Also, another step of vast improvement is the honing of Jewell's songwriting ability.On "Times Like These," Jewell showcases 4 of his compositions and they are all spot on. With an uncanny ability to be able to take the rhetoric of the struggles and foibles of life and transform them into music, Jewell's compositions are indeed this album's cynosure.Mixing just the right dosage of heart and poetry, "Addicted to the Rain," a Jewell co-write with Larry Clark, goes beyond the nondescript ordinary song of heartbreak to disclose the gelidity of a love gone wrong.Top marks also goes to the sensitive title track which articulates the fears and joys of fatherhood performed with such sincerity that it is bound to be a future Father's Day classic.Small town values, a perennial theme in country music, does surfaces in the penetrating moving ballad "Dyes, Arkansas."

Among those not penned by Jewell, lead single "Any Other Woman" is indeed this album's gem.Boasting some dexterous piano licks, "Any Other Woman," written by Brett Beavers, Connie Harrington and Brett Beavers, tells of the glorious power of how love can change the priorities of a man.With Jewell's sensitive rendition, this power ballad is sure bet to make Jewell's legions of female fans swoon. A little more desultory is the Rick Bowles and Josh Leo midtempo "Me Loving You."Though melodious and tailored made for radio, it's a little on the contrived and obligatory side.Craig Wiseman and Tony Lane's "You Ain't Doin' It Right" is a tad better and it's one of the few more welcomed uptempo moments.

However, not everything works here. "So Gone," for instance, is a throwaway 70s pop fluff that is just plain bromidic.Further, though Jewell excels in the ballads department, the uptempo section is not on par.Other than "You Ain't Doin' It Right" and "So Gone" most of the album is in the mid and slower pace. It would have been even better if one or two more well chosen peppier numbers were included.Nevertheless, this is a good country CD with top tiered songs and affectionately sung by Jewell who seems to have live with these songs giving them an inherent credibility.In short, this is country music that matters.

No sophomore slump here
This CD is simply fantastic."Times Like These" is one of those CDs that I will play repeatedly and rave about it to anyone.There is no song on here that gets the skip button.Buddy uses the true talents of his voice on this CD so much more than on his debut, self-titled.His warm, genuine voice on every song makes for an excellent country album, that I found no fault in.

great music, but beware of Sony
I love Buddy Jewell and think that "Times Like These" is an impressive, if slightly less varied, follow-up to his debut album.

My complaint about the disc follows on the heels of what a previous reviewer said about iTunes... Sony has copy-protected this disc, meaning that if you want to make a copy of the disc or even just copy the files to your computer (for private listening, as I do), you must do it through Sony-specific software included on the disc.THEORETICALLY, you should be able to use that software to copy the music into Windows Media Player... but it didn't work for me.The music copied into Windows Media Player, but would not play due to a licensing problem.I contacted customer support a number of times with different questions, and each time got back a form letter offering the exact same advice, which didn't help.So I ended up paying $10 to download a digital copy of the CD elsewhere, in addition to already having paid $10+ for the original CD.What a hassle.

Solid and well done CD -iTunes users Beware
Excellent songs sung by a real professional who has paid the proverbial dues.

My complaint is the studio coding the CD so it can't be read by iTunes; only Windows Media Player. Of course, only Sony Walkman and Windows Media Playforsure portable devices are compatible with the CD. I hope Buddy finds another label to carry his next album because I won't buy any more Sony productions as long as they carry on like this. ... Read more

Amazon.com

While the hype machine forever proclaims this or that new artist to be "unique," "original," or "a fresh new voice," most of the time what you hear is more of the same old, same old. Thus, it is a rare joy to hear a newcomer that actually qualifies as all of the above. Mindy Smith fits loosely in the alt-country genre but adds some distinctive touches that set her apart from the field. A residency in Nashville brings a welcome Music Row level of craftsmanship to the playing and production, while her singing and songwriting take the music to places where cliché has never been. A song like "Hurricane" has a hook Faith Hill would kill for, but tells a tale of rebirth that might prove a little raw for her emotional range. Like Julie Miller, Smith writes songs that deal with redemption and spiritual matters in a way that is powerful without being off-putting to the more secular among us. Likewise she can write about her stepmother's passing in terms general enough to make it a stirring ode to the loss of any love--and do it in a voice that could make a statue misty. Smith more than held her own on the Dolly Parton tribute, Just Because I'm a Woman, alongside the likes of Alison Krauss, Norah Jones, and Dolly herself. One Moment More proves that it was no fluke. This time believe the hype. --Michael Ross ... Read more

Reviews (64)

EVERYONE NEEDS THIS CD! MINDY IS OUTSTANDING!
Wow! I was so impressed by Mindy Smith's debut album. She is definitly one of the best female singers anywhere. Her songwriting skills are unbelievable. Mindy's voice is the kind that only comes along once in a lifetime. So do yourself a favor and don't miss out on this CD. I wish I could tell you what the best songs on the album are but EVERY SINGE ONE is my favorite. I couldn't even pick one over another if I tried. Mindy caught my interest by singing "Jolene" on a Dolly Parton tribute album so I decided to keep an eye on any material she put out. I was beyond surprised at how great this CD is. I never would have expected something as emotional, thoughtful, and well put-together as Mindy's CD. Support Mindy Smith and go buy this CD as soon as possible!! You will never regret it.

Great, ORIGINAL Singer/Songwriter.
In a world of today, full of musical bubble-gum pop garbage such as Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, or rap such as 50 Cent or Eminem, Mindy Smith is in a world all her own.

She renews our faith that original singer and songwriters who write heartfelt lyrics still exist. And she makes her presence known. When she sings a song on this album, her lyrics are so filled with emotion, you can FEEL the song. And that's what good music to me is. A song that you can relate to, or even if you can't, you understand what the song is about, and you can feel it in the music. All of the songs on this CD are great, and I can easily listen to them all, but with any CD there are favorites. Stand-out songs for me are:

Angel Doves - A very great moving song. I am not a very religious person (at all, really) myself, but you can't help but feel this song. It really hits you. - "Spreading hope out over us, like angel doves."

Down In Flames - A slow, depressing, melancholy type of song. You can translate it several ways...but either way you do, you'll get a great meaning from this song. It's great. "I need some direction, I need someone to listen, someone to tell me that they know, that life's so hard, it's the little things that seem to be getting me today, yeah...and I'm going down in flames, going down in flames"

Hurricane - Another slow, melancholy type of song. The echo in her voice after she says she heard the faint trace of thunder is lovely. The lyrics are great, a really well put together song.

Jolene - Although a Dolly Parton cover, for anyone who may have never heard Dolly's version, you'd think Mindy Smith wrote it herself. I prefer this to Dolly (or anyone else's) version. Mindy Smith's voice is great on this song, especially on the "Jolene's"

One Moment More - I like the acoustic version better, without all the background music, it's more sad and sentimental, but this version is great too. Probably my 2nd favorite on the CD. A great love song. "You've got to hold me, yeah, and show me now...give me, just one part of you to cling to...and keep me, everywhere you are."

Raggedy Ann - My favorite song on this album. The level of emotion Mindy is able to write through these lyrics and through her voice in this song is unlike any I've ever heard. There's no way to describe it unless you hear it for yourself. The way she says "hey" a lot, is also wonderful. "I'm just a little girl, I'm Raggedy Ann, making believe I'm happy, hey, Raggedy Ann, falling apart at the seams."

To sum it up, this album is one of the best EVER. Amazing for a debut CD. The hype is real for this CD. Mindy Smith is not like any other artist out there today, she's unique. And that alone is warrant to at least give this CD a listen, add to that the songs are well-written, real, touching songs is a nice little bonus. I can't wait for a follow up album to this.

Best Album of the Year!
Every song on here is a winner.

This CD has folk, country & rock songs and they are all great.

I can't for Mindy to put out another CD and hopefully I'll see her in concert soon!

Buy this CD, it is great!!

To The Core Of One's Soul
I had never heard of Mindy Smith until I caught her opening for Jonny Lang last night in Saratoga and as guilty as I feel for saying this, I was totally and completely moved by her songs and her genuine and heartfelt love for her music! Her spectacular raspy voice can touch the inside of anyone who takes the time to listen to her! She will go far and I hope for many more CD's to be released by her! She wrote all of her own lyrics and damn, that gal can sing!

Saw her in concert
She is AWESOME! Last night I saw her in concert with Johnny Lang and she rocked! She filled the concert hall with her powerful voice and sent chills down our spines. I would recommend her to anyone! ... Read more

Reviews (91)

Something different, finally...
I totally disagree with the idea that these guys are anything like the Strokes or any other indi-pop band I've heard. These guys are actually good. The sound, as someone else mentioned, is refreshing. Every time I put the CD in, people ask who it is. For a debut, it's an unbelivable album.
In terms of influences, I hear undertones of The Black Crowes, AC/DC, Tom Petty, and Rolling Stones. Odd thing is, of those guys, the only one I like is Tom Petty. But I like Kings of Leon. They have some serious energy, great hooks, fun lyrics, and they play the hell out of their instruments.
There are two or three songs I don't like, but for the most part these guys put together a great string of tunes. "Happy Alone" will stick in your head for days. "Dusty" is probably my sleeper favorite. Sort of this spoken-word ramble with thumping bass and cool twangy guitar licks. Kinda like what you might get if you put Chuck Berry in a garage band...
I'd love to see them live, and will definitely check out their next album.

great band
I bought this album not knowing much about it. I had read some reviews and stuff and decided to give it a try. The first time I heard it I thought that it was really good. The vocals are different. After hearing the vocals a few times you get used to it. Once you get past that the album is awesome. The instrument play is above the rest. The only better instrument play these days is the White Stripes. The strokes suck and to compare Kings of Leon to them is absurd. If you cant see the southern rock influence then you dont live in the south and dont listen to our music. Buy this cd. You wont regret it. Oh yeah and if you are skeptical about the vocals dont be. They are good to. They arent your cookie cutter vocals. The lyrics are good to. Happy alone and Holy Roller Novicaine are the best tracks.

The Bottom Line
"New Southern Rock Band" is a term that seems to be all but extinct sans any project that has to do with a side-project or a re-tooled version of the Allman Brothers. Alas, here comes Kings of Leon. Youth & Young Manhood to me is almost the perfect quintessential debut album title for a younger rock band, and the attitude and presentation of their first release depicts this theme quite well. First of all, this IS a fresh, original sound. For the most part, Kings of Leon present themselves as a southern rock influenced group who speed things up a little but are careful to keep the soul intact. If the songs sound familiar, you might have heard them approximately every 10 minutes during the movie "Stuck on You," on which they are prominently featured. Rightfully so. Take this one with you on the road for a weekend trip, pop it into the player, and you'll have a new favorite.

One word - FANTABULOUS!
To be honest, i only bought this album because the 'kings' looked hairy, and i like hairy men! and thank the LORD i DID indeed buy this AMAZING album because it is the best debut album i have ever heard.The kings have introduced me to THE most beautiful and graceful song i have ever heard, 'talihina sky'. it is TRULY a work of art (and none of that rubbish you find in the tate modern).Some might say that Caleb's lead vocals are annoying, or even unbearable but to me, it is a refreshing change to hear raw and unspoiled vocals and it is a crying shame that so many artists have yet to take the jump and to stop using computers or whatever to 'perfect' their voices. I couldn't say what the best song on the album is because they are all so incredible it would break my heart to say. However, i can say that the highlight of listening to the album was pressing the 'repeat' button when the beautifully crafted 'talihina sky' ended and the album was over. What i also love about this album is during most of the songs ('Joes Head' and 'Trani' in particular) the lyrics seem so mixed up and Caleb's singing is so fast and his accent is so heavy that it is impossible to decifer what he is saying. However, i didn't care and carried on listening because the music truly speaks for itself. Also, when you look up the lyrics it is a nice surprise to find what the songs are about and then when you listen to them again it is almost as if the songs are reborn and they are now new to you. 'holy roller novocaine' has THE most amazing bass line which really made me listen to the music, rather than the lyrics. Caleb has a voice that could cut through glass and his raw lyrics are amazing. The drums also excell on this album and the drummer's backing vocals are also FABU! So, to sum up this BEAST of an album, it really made me fall in love with music all over again and if you want to own the most amazing debut album on the history of the earth, you would buy this record. Or if you choose not to, then you wouldnt know talent if it came up to with a lampshade on its head, shook your hand and said, 'hello, my name is talent, how u doin'?' PEACE OUT! (buy the record, if you regret it you may sue me!)

Best and Most Promising Debut of 2003
The Kings of Leon are the return of rock and roll. No band has rocked so hard and well on a debut like this in a long, long time.

The Kings of Leon loudly proclaim the return of southern rock and do it insanely well. This album really is better than most give it credit for. It's not just a really good album, it's an incredible album. The only credible knock on this album I've heard thus far is the lead singer's voice. I love it, some hate it. It's just one of thsoe things. He all but completely yells his voice out on track 5, "Trani." As I said, I love it, others will hate it.

Regaurdless of whether or not you like his voice, by the time you've gotten to "Holy Roller Novocaine," you become so engrossed in the music that you don't notice there's no more songs after that. This is the kind of great rock music that seems to be missing from the world today. Easily one of the best of 2003 and the best debut of 2003. Expect more from these guys for quite some time. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This reunion of singer-songwriters Rodney Crowell and Vince Gill with pianist Tony Brown, ace guitarist Richard Bennett, and steel guitarist Hank DeVito sounds like the country equivalent of the Traveling Wilburys--a veteran supergroup having too much fun to take itself too seriously. Alumni of Emmylou Harris's Hot Band, the Cherry Bombs were Crowell's backing band in the '70s. Since then, Gill has become a star, Brown has become better known as a label executive, and Bennett has seen considerable demand as a producer. Starting with a call to loosen up on "Let It Go, Let It Ride," the album shows a spirit of playful camaraderie. It's tough to imagine either Crowell or Gill putting a cut titled "It's Hard to Kiss the Lips at Night That Chew Your Ass Out All Day Long" on one of their own albums, but the collaboration here is a honky-tonk highlight. DeVito remains the band's secret songwriting weapon, as "Wait a Minute" (in collaboration with Crowell) and a revival of "Sweet Little Lisa" (previously recorded by Dave Edmunds) capture the exhilaration of early rock & roll. A former gospel pianist, Brown adds revivalist preaching to this busmen's holiday. --Don McLeese ... Read more

Amazon.com

On first thought, the idea of the Man in Black recording such covers as "Bridge over Troubled Water," "Danny Boy," and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" might seem odd, even for an artist who's been able to put his personal stamp on just about ever