Album Details

With Over 17 Million Albums Sold Worldwide, Enigma Returns with their ThirdAlbum featuring 12 New Lush and Moody Tracks. ... Read more

Reviews (92)

Enigma's third chapter captivating as the last two.
The interesting thing about Enigma is that between their 3 albums, no 2 are different and yet they're the same. Frontman Michael Cretu has written another otherworldly album, but its differences between the others weakens it some. MCMXC a.D. gave us dance grooves, chants, and seductive French lyrics. How can we forget the "Prends-moi, je suis a toi" ("Take me, I'm yours") of "Mea Culpa"? Cross of Changes took that one, and added another element, more lyrics, harder drum loops, and more wisdom. Le Roi Est Mort.. changed its sound dramatically. It's still obviously Enigma, but it has hushed drum loops, a futuristic, aquatic sound, and noticable more lyrics. What weakens the album is it's lack of depth that the first two had. Songs like "Why..?" have been done before and add little to the album. Its two instrumental songs are breathtaking ("Shadows In Silence" and "Almost Full Moon"). "Morphing Thru Time" stands out as one of the best songs on the album, as does "The Roundabout", "Beyond The Invisible", and "TNT For The Brain". The album's intro, "Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi" is the perfect way to begin. I love the chorus and the way the female voice comes in. Definitely one of the best albums out there, but I still miss the sensuality and mystery of the first two.

Guys, the best is here!!!
It's the second review that I do about Enigma albums after "The cross of changes", and now my interest is taken from "Le roi est mort, vive le roi!". The songtitle is a good introduction to your acustic adventure. "Morphine thru time" makes you calm and its catchy melody covers everything like a velvet sheet. The same feelings are producted by "Beyond the invisible", which represents a main element of the album. This is followed by "Why!...". THIS IS THE BEST!!! It'll guide you to another universe, with sweet sounds but also with the power of the singer's voice. He shows his troubles and the questions he can't answer to. The next song must be heard in the dark, with no disturbs: the dull percussions and the pleasant melody of "Shadows in silence" are the right ways to leave our world for some minutes and find another one to land on. "The child in us" reminded me to people and places I knew in the past, and I know there's a spirit inside us that will never die. The 8th song is "T.N.T. for the brain". It goes a bit faster than the other songs, and you can hear how modern sounds and the words whispered from the singer make this one a great experience. All turns into relax with "Almost full moon", which follows Morphine thru time's rhythm, so you can find the first songs' calm...but just for a moment: "The roundabout" comes with dance passion and tribal drums. It's time again for a quiet song ("Prism of life")which has continuos voices in the background that go with a same kind of percussions. Finally, "Odyssey of the mind" closes the circle created by this incredible album. Once again Enigma shows, to the ones who care, that real music can be made only through real emotions.

Le roi est mort.......vive Enigma 3
Is absoluteley the best of all Enigma Records.

Check it and buy it...is really fantastic.....!
8 Years old but I think is always like a new one and a very
timeless Style.

The King is half undressed
Enigma's third adventure in sonic atmospherics is hindered by a formula that, while still interesting, sounds mired in an inability to move anywhere new. While great for fans and anyone who may have worn the first and second Enigma discs out, it doesn't add anything fresh to the vocabulary. Unlike "The Cross Of Changes," which took a few new sources for its material (the Native American rhythms and chants), "Le Roi est Mort..." feels more like a sophomore slump than the second album did.

The other drawback on this disc is that Michael Cretu has decided that he should do more of the singing. He comes off as a rougher voiced Phil Collins, which is not a good thing. "Why!" is a pretty good song nonetheless, but might have come across better in the more capable hands of Collins, or maybe a Peter Gabriel. Even with my reservations, someone must have thought the songs on "Le Roi Est Mort..." were pretty good, because four of these selections crossed to the "L.S.D." anthology.

Probably more than any of the four original Enigma albums, this is the most song heavy. There is definitely a push into the more sappy tendencies of New Age here ("Child In Us"), but if you're a fan of these sonic landscapes, then you'll probably dig the big boom of "TNT For The Brain." Other listeners can stick with the first two albums. ALSO: If you can find it, the original acetate slip card design of the earlier CD releases are an enhancement to "Le Roi Est Mort..."

Excellent atmospheric music
When Michael Cretu released Enigma's first album in 1990, I wasn't at all impressed. Somehow it's hit-song, "The Principles of Lust", turned me off with its poppy rhythm. I never intended to buy this record either, but by virtue of chance I got acquainted with it. I was so surprised! The music on "Le Roi Est Mort" is excellent, very deep and emotional, atmospheric and entertaining. Michael Cretu definitely stepped forward from his debut. His new-age rhythms are carfully interwoven with early Jean-Michel Jarre references, ethnic and world music influences, and Enigma's trademark gregorian chanting. But not only that, but also chanting in Latvian language and in Sanscrit are inserted into the sonic texture, and it's all blended together just perfectly.

What surprises me most about Enigma 3 is its dual-faced nature. If you feel like relaxing, you just put the CD on, and you have a pleasant listen that is very easy on your brain. But if you want to look deeper, you'll find so many layers of sound, that any demanding listener would be satisfied. This is a proof of quality. I'm also amazed at the strength of songwriting on Enigma 3, as it is a collection of equally strong tracks. I'm quite surprised at people complaining about Cretu's vocals. This is no opera, and Michael's singing blends with the music perfectly, never sounding odd or off-key. Female vocals are also good and suit the nature of the music.

I think this is one of those rare albums that has the potential to please anyone without sounding poppy or mainstream. Cretu proves his strength as a composer and performer. Very recommended. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Using the same exotic, sly production style that made 2000's impressively resourceful Freaks & Icons such a hoot, Dzihan & Kamien's Gran Riserva is filled with sensual, unpredictable sounds and the occasional ass-shakin' beat. After a remix record that further explored the Freaks material (the hit-or-miss collection Refreaked), D&K have emerged with an entirely new set that slips and slides all over the map of trip-hop, lounge, house, and jazz. While the sunny, sexy "Basmati" plays around in the surf, other tracks, like "Drophere," live in a quieter, ambient space. In fact, the duo seem to have a hard time bringing their tone back up after breaking out the excellent but mellow vibe of "Where's Johny Sabatino." Happily, the gorgeous blip-pop loops of "Gutenmorgenduft" come along to give the record a sweet coda, though the track cries out for an extended remix. Mixing Kruder & Dorfmeister-like inventiveness with a restrained up vibe, Dzihan & Kamien create deep, thoughtful music that's fun at the same time.--Matthew Cooke ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Thought my CD was skipping; no, that's just how D+K get down
Subtle, yet in your face, classy, yet raw, vintage-laden, teched-out, scratched-up, plain sick acid-jazz/disco/funk miscellania and minutia like you have not heard before.

This CD is so hot and raw that you can't help but squint and grin when you hear it... only if you're down with the REAL cheesecake, that is (that would be this album, of course).

'Basmati' and 'Sliding' are by FAR the two standout cuts on this album. 'Airport' would be my next pick of the choicest cuts, albeit, if not in the same category as the latter two. I won't waste any time describing these tracks 'cause words won't do them justice, imho.

As a part-time funk musician/composer (piano and keyboards), i must admit that, in general, the only credibility I lend to any piece of music is that earned by its 'groove,' if you will. Some people may use the terms 'drive' or 'beat' instead. With this kind of music, lyrics only matter to serve the groove; it doesn't really matter what exactly they are saying, long as it sounds good with the music; that's why the best lyrics in funk are often just plain scatting or pure nonsense.

This CD is only for people who 'get' what good acid-jazz is; if you don't know the difference, then this album will sound no different to you than the other 50,000 or what not garbage wannabe acid-jazz compilations that pollute the shelves of the 'Dance/DJ' section of your local record store or the virtual ones of Amazon. Perhaps if more people knew the difference, we'd have less garbage to sort through to find albums like this.

bloody excellent!
Seriously, these guys, most popular for their song "After", have really hit it with this album. I bought it last night and listened to the whole thing. I never hit the skip forward button on the cd! Honestly, every track was worth listening too. How rare is that? Especially on a cd that's mostly instrumental. To sum up the sound of this cd - it's like a cocktail party with chilled drinks, cool people, and the casual flirtation leaving you with endless possibilities for the evening....for those of you who understand something like that, you'll highly appreciate this album. Buy it now!

Do yourself a favor....
.....dzihan & kamien sets the standard in downtempo electronica. I picked up Gran Riserva, mainly for the hypnotic track "Thrill" and was very impressed. Not one bad song. Freaks & Icons is very smooth as well.

Others to check out: Afterlife, kruder & dorfmeister, Micatone, grand tourism, and koop.

any other recommendations greatly appreciated at kwalitee@juno.com!

yeah... tasty beats!
I'd been eagerly awaiting for D&K to put something new out. I was (and still am) completely enthralled with "Freaks & Icons". "Gran Riserva" dishes up plenty more of those highly addictive middle-eastern flavored beats that I just can't seem to get enough of! My favorite track is "Dundadeova". The musical components are so jazzy & fluid , elastic & funky. I love its 30's syle rag/blues vox layered with lotsa bass and riddim. I couldn't get it out of my head for a week straight and that's saying a lot for someone with musical A.D.D.! "Basmati" is super-sexy... feels kinda like Cleopatra kickin' it in Ibiza! "Sliding" is starting to grow on me with its harder-driving dub textures. Excellent tunes... keep it coming, guys!!

the new standard...
It's been a long time since a cd gave goosebumps song after song.....I put this cd on my car and went for a drive, it was an exquisite experience, from song 1 till the end, it was beatiful, danceable, smooth, every song was better than the one before...
After this you have to stop calling them the next K&D, and start calling some new comers "the next Dzihan & Kamien"...all ready a personal all time favorite...just listen to Airport and you'll know what I mean.....enjoy... ... Read more

Reviews (8)

WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?
Who-ever thinks this song is rubbish is an absolute idiot he must not understand the true depth and meaning to the song

Everybody's free!!!!!!!!
Everdy's free (to wear sunscreen) is a song that touched me right in the heart. A very close friend of mine played the song to me, and i immediately fell in love with it. It's a beautiful, soulful song, that reminds what life REALLY is about, in this age of technology and where love cannot be viewed at our current speed.

Wise Song
I think this is a very deep song, O.K you might not be able to dance to it, but it's great to play when you are feeling down or even to play to someone to make them appreciate you as the words are extreamly wise. Not everyone goes around thinking these words,(apart from the bloke who rubbished it of course, as he sounds as if he knows everything and thinks that we are merely 'stupid people' yeah whatever) so it's nice to hear them once in a while.

It is not even a song!
Its a poem set to a techno beat, not a song. Also it is simple every day wisdom anyone except the stupid don't know.

Great song to lift your sprit when your down.
This is a great song to listen to if your felling down. It makes you fell happy and makes forget your problems. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Another classic in the making
I just picked up a copy of Slow Train's Illegal Cargo and without a doubt it's hottttt for this summer.Lady Z's vocals are on the button with a haunting soulful echos which captivates your entire body.Every track finds its way deep into your mind eventually exploding through your feet.I may be a bit bias on this one since Lady Z is from St.James Trinidad (West Indies). But don't just take my advice, check out any real music lover and they will tell you that THIS ONE IS FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!

ILLEGALLY YOURS!!!
I first discovered Slow Train Soul on the "Hotel Costes 6" CD--"In the Black of Night"--and decided to try them out.Slow Train Soul are the petite Lady Z and a hippie named Morten Varano, who have put together a very impressive CD.Lady Z's vocals are dark and sensual and meander across lazy, melodic riffs and funky basslines like a true veteran.Songs of note are "Slow Train", "Illegal Cargo", "Intuition", "Inna City Woman", "Trail of Dawn" and "Stoned Rays."Slow Train Soul's "Illegal Cargo" chugs along at a pace that's easy on the body and on the mind.Recommended!

Great CD
I love this album!It's so lush and complex it's hard to describe, but I'll try.I definitely hear some soul influence in the music but it's also pretty electronic in nature.it's very layered, with a variety of different textures and sounds.The production work is genius and the vocals totally hit me right where I live.This could possible be described as lounge music, although I think it's a little more evocative than that.Well, that's the best I can do, all I can say is I highly reccomend it, well done!

Just fantastic!
A British friend introduced me to Slow Train and I must say since I have purchased this CD, it has not left my CD player!

This is soulful lounge music! "Twisted Cupid" is just hypnotic! If you are a fan of Hotel Costes then you will be more that happy you invested in this CD. ... Read more

Album Description

The latest from the groundbreaking BUDDHA BAR compilation series. Still the best and most reknowned lifestyle compilation series, BUDDHA BAR V mixed by David Visan will build on the positive word of mouth created by its fans to reach an even broader audience and they will be turned on to this unique & sophisticated style of music from the moment the music starts!! Featured artists include Angelique Kidjo, Frederick Rousseau, Operatica, and Gipsyland. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Utterly transcending!
I recently became a big fan of the Buddha Bar imprint. The only two cds I own that is with the Buddha Bar imprint is the second volume of "Chillout in Paris" mixed by Dave Visan and "Buddha Bar Presents:The Living Theater vol.1". Both cds were simply fantastic and some of the best chill out music I have ever heard in the past couple of years. "Buddha Bar V" is my first official copy of the "Buddha Bar" compilations. Without hesitation, I knew I had to buy it. The track list says it all. I am familiar with Emma Shaplin (well name recognition only) and Operatica. After hearing the cd for the first time today, I was completely swept away by the gorgeous melodies and beautiful vocals on this cd. Both cds are absolutely wonderful. The Dinner disc is more laid back while the Drink disc is more dancey. I loved both cds equally. Then entire feel of both cds ranges from Asian to French. I especially thought the songs on the Dinner disc flowed well tother. Dave Visan does a remarkable job of allowing the cd flow from one song to another. I really loved the opening songs on the Dinner disc. I thought they had a particular Asian feel to the songs. On the Drink cd, Dave Visan picks up the beat with more dancey type songs which is a contrast from the Dinner disc. I thought he did a splendid job at mixing. After listening to "Buddha Bar V", I am definitely hooked on this series. Although pricey, the quality in the music is simply outstanding.I especially enjoyed tracks #1,#7, and #9. Those songs simply took my breath away. Unlike a lot of chill out compilations, the songs chosen for the Buddha Bar compilations are truly unique and different which appeals to me a lot. I get sick and tired of seeing the same ol' song on every chill out compilation I come across at the record store. I find listening to this wonderful compilation thoroughly relaxing, especially when I am at the office. After hearing "Buddha Bar V", I most certainly plan on acquiring the other compilations in the series as well as other cds with on the Buddha Bar imprint.

It's just sooooooooooooo played out, please stop it.
I own all Buddha-bar CD's and must say that I really enjoyed the entire concept in the beginning. Claude Challe did a great job on buddha-bar 1&2. After that, his friends/business partners started to chip in. This CD is mixed by David Visan, who also was responsible for volume 4. Let me tell you, I bought 4 and I prayed they'd stop this madness. (see review) Of course I got suckered into this once more and bought volume 5 as well (got to have the entire collection). Frankly, I am not sure which one is worse, volume 4 or 5. As usual, David selected middle of the road new-age tracks, mixed up with extremely boring & soulless vocal tracks (CD1). CD2 is supposedly dancy (I managed to tap my left finger once). Also, David felt it was necessary to add two of his own creations on this CD which basically tells it all. Like all other lifestyle series, this volume very originally celebrates eating and dancing because that was never done before(ahum). If you walk into any large department/record store you can buy the best of buddha, goa, world music etc. etc. for 10 bucks (a 4 CD set). You are better of spending it on something like that. This CD is truly horrible. Oh yeah, just looking at the price of this CD, buy yourself a nice meal and a drink instead. Trust me that's a better way of spending your money.

Just Wonderfull!!!
I started listining to the buddha bar series b4 2 years. when my freind played buddha bar vol.2 i knew its wonderfull even from the first track since that day i dont hasitate to buy any buddha bar cd..this volume is extremly heavenly breath taking, with its dreamy melodys the mix of india arabia just take you there. isuggest everyone to listen and buy the cd.

Blecchhh
Bland, boring, disappointing ear-candy. Avoid.

Have heard good things about Buddha-Bar compilations (including some great tracks at a local Indian restaurant) and picked this volume as a starting point. Bad decision - should have done more research. I'll try again with Vol. I or II.

Simply Terrific
Be careful if you play CD#2 (Drink) while you are driving. The tempos build as it progresses and you may find yourself doing more seat dancing than driving. If you like the Buddha Bar, Nirvana Lounge and Chill Out in Paris CD series, you will love this CD, especially if you like the Middle Eastern and Asian influences. CD#1 is perfect as background music for dinner while CD#2 will get you blood flowing. I find it hard to comprehend the criticisms leveled at this CD by a few "purists" and can only wonder what it is that I am missing. Frankly, judging by Buddha Bar IV and V, the Buddha Bar series is getting better. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Thanks to the radio ubiquity of "2Wicky" (from their debut album, A New Stereophonic Sound Spectacular), Hooverphonic won mainstream attention and early admission into the trip-hop pantheon. But this Belgian group's sound was always closer to the warm etherealness and pop aspirations of bands like Australia's Single Gun Theory than the wispy experimentalism of Britain's Portishead. Well, they'll probably still be labeled a trip-hop band, but Blue Wonder Power Milk is essentially an electronica-tinged symphonic pop album--and a very strong one, at that. The breathy coo of new vocalist Geike Arnaert melds effortlessly with the languid beats of tracks like "Club Montepulciano" and "Eden" as well as with the more muscular drum & bass of "Battersea." In fact, almost all the songs--many of which are augmented by simple string arrangements--possess a beguiling beauty guaranteed to keep your finger on the repeat button. Highly recommended. --Steve Landau ... Read more

Reviews (95)

Interesting Title....
As you listen to all three Hooverphonic albums you will hear a difference in sound which seperates each one in their own distinct way but I think that BLUE WONDER POWER MILK is their most mature album to date, thus deserving a ton of recognition. And despite the fact that I strongly feel that their first album, A NEW STEREOPHONIC SOUND SPECTACULAR was a bit disappointing just because of all the excess hype, their third album THE MAGNIFICENT TREE seemed to smooth out all the uneven edges, despite the fact that it took an unexpected turn toward the dreamy yet very mainstream pop scene. BLUE WONDER POWER MILK, however, seems to sit perfect in the middle as their most impressive work yet. I also think it wise of them to have replaced the lead singer Liesje Sadonius with that of Geike Arnaert. She just seems to have more feeling to her voice which adds an unexpected warmth to the cool, chilled-out electro beats amidst the smooth string arrangments that rise with the momentum of the songs. "Renaissance Affair" and "Battersea" are prime-examples of this while songs like "One Way Ride" and "This Strange Effect" have more of a dream-pop sound that'll remind you of groups like Mandalay, Olive, Morcheeba and Joydrop. Even Alex Callier lends his rapturous male vocals on songs like "Dictionary" and "Electro Shock Faders" which elevates the album to a haunting effect. I also really dig "Eden" (which my favorite pop singer, Sarah Brightman, did a cover of) and the cold "Magenta" with its mystique speak-singing that grips the soul with an icy chill that's refreshing and new...

This is by far the best Hooverphonic album so buy it without a thought and enjoy...

This is highly recommended.

Not Trip Hop, but definitely a trip
I guess that this album is classified as a "Trip Hop" album, and Trip Hop lovers will probably buy it. I'm a trip hop lover, and I bought this album of course, and found out it is not trip hop. Still, it's a fanatastic album.

Trip Hop uses the drums and sinths of Hip Hop to make sound more like ambient. This album doesn't have this sound. It doesn't sound like Portishead, Massive of Mono. It sounds like Hooverphonic : a sound that is almost pure acustic (they use orchestra) but still will be a favorite of electronic sound lovers.

The album begins quite fast, with a strange drum & bass beat over slow string tune ("Battersea") and kind of slowing down until a noisy break in the middle ("Lung") and then goes down to slower and a very darker sound.

Three tracks in this album have a male vocal. That's an interesting thing, because most of the bands usually have one leading vocal, and it adds to the diversity of sounds.

Pay attention to "Club Montepulciano" and "This Strange Effect", which are, for my opinion, the best tunes in this album, listen to the voice of the singer almost breaking every glass in the house, and be hypnotized - like I was.

Symphonic, Playful, Thoughtful...Beauteous
After their sublime, yet more low-key first album, Hooverphonic get a new singer, with a voice just as entrancing in a different way, and explore a more trip-pop environment, while not losing any appeal or orginality.
There are similarities in the songs, but they set different moods, and feature futuristic, perceptive lyrics that add to the intrigue of the music.

While each song is memorable, some of the highlights to me include "Club Montepulciano", a groovy, hypnotic tune featuring Geikes soaring, honey-sweet vocals, "Electro Shock Faders", a funky song sung by one of the band's male members, and "Tuna", a sort of mournfully hopeful ode to the future's promises.

I could mention many other songs, but this is an outstanding collection of quality music from a band that already started on a gorgeous note.

one of the 90s' best, in my opinion.

Car Commericial
You may think of a Belgian waffle. Everything on it. No empty places. Or what about Gabba Hardcore? Sort of heavy metal techno for football hooligans. People who aren't into Burzum must have to do something with their time when they are not burning churches or watching X-Files. Hooverphonic are like none of the above. They have been slowly informed by the jungle virus. The massive beats are there, but what else can you do for me, mister? I have been playing "Eden" and "Out of Tune" the moonless nights that I have been DJing lately, and all the young girls come up to me afterwards and ask, "Who was that?" I like the way Hooverphonic uses both male and female vocals on different songs. Geike Arnaert is a good singer in the Cocteau Twins/Bjork tradition, but many of their lyrics seem to make little sense, as if they are struggling with the English language. People like myself and Will Self have to keep the language pure and we see ourselves as custodians of English. Sometimes the cuteness of an accent wears off. The mastermind of Hooverphonic, Alex Callier, is a fine and talented songwriter. The disturbing cover of the old Kinks song "This Strange Effect" is wonderfully sad. I hope to hear more of Hooverphonic in the future and congradulate them on the new direction. Need a haircut? Ask Nelson.

A Futuristic Voyage
I bought this album based on some back-of-the-head idea that it got good reviews, and it just blew me away.
Hooverphonic uses just enough synth and computerized sounds to give this album a sleek, refined sound that transcends most modern music, but the listener never feels lost.
"Battersea" explodes with such a rush of energy, it feels like being lifted off the ground and set into flight. The first track also introduces you to Geike's sweet voice, with an intangible quality that leaves me curious and listening to this album more and more. Following tracks like "One Way Ride" and "Club Montepulciano" flow effortlessly and beautifully.
Two more popular songs are "Eden", with its relaxed almost chill-out vibe, and "Magenta", a creative masterpiece. Note how the backup vocals on the chorus jump to the left speaker for "Look left" and right speaker for "Look right" - a nice little detail.
My two favorites on this disc are "Electro Shock Faders" - short, sweet, and an incredible outro that again is reminiscent of flying - and "Lung". The intro notes sound as though they'll never fit in, but halfway through the song you remember that they're still playing, and are amazed at how smooth the transition was.
I believe BWPM is the band's best work, and recommend it to any avid music fan with a little bit of a taste for adventure. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

One of the best eighties pop albums
Madonna was among the most successful pop singers of the eighties and nineties. Listening to this album, it's easy to see why, Four enormous international hits - Like a virgin, Angel, Material girl and Dress you up - plus an outstanding cover of Love don't live here anymore and some other great songs that would surely have been hits had they been released as singles - most notably Over and over, a catchy number to make you get up and dance to.

There were those who thought that Madonna was all about image, but this album made me realise that she had the talent as well. I am therefore not surprised that she has continued to make great music that sells in huge quantities.

My Like a virgin CD includes another major international hit, Into the groove, which has been omitted from this re-mastered version. A couple of re-mixes of other songs have been included instead. Even without Into the groove (which can be found elsewhere), this remains one of Madonna's strongest albums - and that is saying something, given the consistently high quality of all her albums.

Dedicated to virgins--but wonderfully lacking innocence!
As other reviewers before me have very perceptively noted, this IS without doubt one of the best albums of the 1980s. It did shoot Madonna to fame and she deserved every bit of her success! Listening to the first four songs "Material Girl," Angel," "Like a Virgin," and "Over and Over," I felt young, excited, optimistic and happy as I did all twenty years ago when I first heard these wonderfully infectious songs! (It encourages you to reminisce about the good old days, too--as well as the materialism of the '80s! GRIN) Following them is the torchy pop ballad "Love Don't Live Here Anymore," which Madonna performs very well. "Dress You Up" is yet another tune that immediately became a global hit for "The Material Girl." "Shoo-Bee-Doo" is a slower ballad that goes well after the faster paced "Dress You Up." This album also includes very, very good songs like the slower "Pretender" and the song "Stay." The listener then gets the added plusses of extended dance mixes of "Like a Virgin" and "Material Girl."

The sound quality is excellent throughout the entire remastered CD! The liner notes include the lyrics to all the songs and there are a few great shots of Madonna taken at that time, too. A real plus for Madonna fans!

Not only is this one of her greatest albums, this CD would also be an excellent introduction to the newcomer who wants to see what Madonna could produce at such an early point in her career. I strongly recommend this remastered CD as a great addition for Madonna fans who only have the original CD or the vinyl album. Only regret: "Into The Groove" isn't here! Hey! To improve this incredible CD even further, can we use this as a springboard to remaster it yet again as something even more awesome (although there's not too much room to go higher)? Only time will tell.....GRIN

An excellent sophomore effort
Like A Virgin (1984.) Madonna's second album.

Early in the eighties, Madonna came onto the musical scene with the single Everybody. Not long after its release, her 1983 debut LP was released. The LP contained a number of excellent tracks. But, while many of the songs it featured are revered as classics today, at its time of release it didn't do very much to put Madonna in the spotlight. She needed to release another album, and she did so the following year. 1985's Like A Virgin is the album that first brought Madonna the popularity she has had for so very long, and this is arguably her most popular album. Is it deserving of this reputation, or is it just an overrated release? Read on for my review of Like A Virgin.

To put it in the simplest terms possible, this IS an overrated album (and I personally like the lesser-known debut better), but it's an album that deserves to be overrated. There were many female pop singers trying to make it big in the eighties, and Madonna was one of the few whose music was worthwhile. This is the album that put her in the spotlight, and rightfully so. The title track is arguably the biggest hit of her entire career. And, of course, that's not the only hit. We've also got Material Girl and Dress You Up, both of which became extremely popular. But, much like her first LP, some of the best tracks on Madonna's sophomore effort are the tracks that were never very popular at all. Angel and Over And Over had some minor popularity, but sadly, they never became as popular as the really popular tracks featured on the album. That's a shame, because these songs feature the kind of upbeat, bouncy pop music that only the eighties incarnation of Madonna could ever shell out. She even serves up a ballad, Love Don't Live Here Anymore. One of the most interesting songs on the album is Shoo-Be-Doo, because it's the perfect balance between a pop hit and a ballad. This goes to show just how excellent her music is. The closers, Pretender and Stay, tend to go overlooked, even by Madonna fans. That's bites, because they are VERY good songs. The fact that they were featured as single B-Sides doesn't help their reputation any, either. In the end, Madonna's sophomore album is a damn fine piece of eighties pop music.

THIS TEXT REFERS EXCLUSIVELY TO THE WARNER REMASTERS EDITION OF THE ALBUM. Many of Madonna's albums were recently rereleased as part of the Warner Remasters series of album reissues. The liner notes have been expanded, the sound quality has been improved, and bonus tracks have been added! In the case of the Like A Virgin album, you get extended dance remixes of two of the tracks! That's pretty cool. Too bad they didn't put bonus tracks like this on their Van Halen reissues...

Like A Virgin is the album that shot Madonna straight up to instant popularity, and rightly so. She has shelled out a number of excellent albums over the years, and this is among the finest. They don't call her the Queen of Pop for nothing! If you're a fan of Madonna or eighties pop music in general, don't hesitate to add this one to your collection.

Next to Thriller, Probably The Quintessential '80s' Album
Although her 1983 self - titled debut was a hit, Madonn had to wait until December of 1984 before she was a superstar. When "Like A Virgin" reached # 1 and stayed there for 6 weeks, the world was ready to welcome a new pop superstar. 1985's "Like A Virgin" welcomed her into the world of music, knocking Prince's "Purple Rain" from # 1 after 24 consecutive weeks at the top. Yielding 5 top 5 singles, Madonna had arrived.

The album opens with its other massive hit, the bright and fun "Material Girl", her tribute to Marilyn Monroe in a way. It remains one of the best '80s' pop songs. It also went to # 2, unable to unseat "One More Night" by Phil Collins. "Angel" (# 5) is a great and upbeat. Next comes the moment we've all been waiting for. From its heavy synthesized intro to its breathy close, the title track might as well be the best song of the 1980s', summing the decade up (in musical terms) in just over three minutes. "Over And Over" is a rapid - paved dance number sure to have you on your feet. Following is her soulful cover of Rose Royce's "Love Don't Live Here Anymore" that is so beautiful, you can't help but wonder why they waited 11 years to release it as a single (a remixed version peaked at # 78 in 1996). "Dress You Up" was another big hit. It's not really anything special, but it's still a fun and harmless little pop song. "Shoo - Be - Doo" is a nice slower number. "Pretender" is a bit of a downer, but the album closes on a high note with "Stay", which has a mesmerizing chorus.

"Like A Virgin" was the album that blew everyone away. Madonna had emerged from Detroit and proven herself a durable pop artist with moe than just a few tricks up her sleeve.

not bad
This Album was produced by Nile Rodgers and his time was the 70s. If we listen to this album today we may think there was no technical possibilty to create quality pop music, but believe me this recording sounded "old" by the time it came out. Other weakness is that it has many monotone and repeatative song, which are boring, example: over and over, pretender, stay...By that time she worked also together with Tangerine Dream, and those songs are much better than the ones we can find here, no wonder that "Gambler" and Crazy for You" climbed the charts not theese ones. Her other big hit "Into the groove" is not presented here either. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Despite Paul Oakenfold's status as "the world's most successful DJ" (according to the Guinness Book of Records, no less), and producing bands like the Happy Mondays and U2, Bunkka is his first real stab at solo superstardom. Abandoning the podium trance with which he made his name, Bunkka sees Oakenfold marrying Hybrid-like breakbeats with rock, hip-hop, and progressive house--not to mention a healthy dose of pop. Add an impressive list of guest vocalists--Tricky, Nelly Furtado, Ice Cube, Perry Farrell, Hunter S Thompson(!)--and a slew of radio-friendly tunes, and it soon becomes clear that Oakey has gone straight for the populist jugular. Fair enough, but no amount of star turns, catchy choruses, and occasional flashes of brilliance can hide the fact that Bunkka is fundamentally a patchy album. It occasionally pushes the right buttons, but its blunt, schizophrenic nature risks compromising Oakenfold's appeal with his traditional fan base.--Matt Anniss ... Read more

Reviews (97)

better than one would expect
seeing as how everyone has loved this album in the reviews posted so far, i will be the devils advocate. the production was the most impressive work, and perhaps oakenfold gets 5 stars for the production, although not groundbreaking by any means, (see BT-MISL, or Hybrid -wide angle for more innovative work).
the album starts off with the amazing; "ready, steady , go"...which def will be popping up in ads and movie trailers soon. then the next 2 songs slag off into mediocrity, with the bland southern sun and the absurd time of your life with perry farrell. However, Oakie comes back stong on the next string of tracks, hypnotised, is a beauty, but the real album center piece is Zoo York, with its sampled strings from "Requiem for a Dream". This song is the one stand out track that demands respect. Perhaps Oakie has it in him to be scoring films after all.
Then comes Nixon's Spirit, with the weird spoken world mumblings of Fear and Loathing's Hunter S. Thompson. Not bad, but not needed. Hold Your Hand is another magical track, that has a bouncy hip-hop feel, and the vocals are perfect. From then on, the album needs to end. Starry eyed surprise with that loser from crazytown is lame and is not memorable, and when the rap/rock fad ends people will wonder why oakie wanted to use him? vocal greatness..no..just for a few more albums sold. the ice cube track, get 'em up, is odd, they edited out the swears, which takes away the impact of the song, get the balde 2 soundtrack to hear the better version. Motion (somewhat of a grower) and The harder they come are just wasted tracks with big name vocalists (i.e. nelly furtado, tricky), a waste of the record companies money. Worth buying for Zoo York alone and ready, steady, go. Not bad for Oakie. Not too bad at all.

Paul Oakenfold is not a talented human being.
Bunkka should be boxed with a 2nd cd, that 2nd cd should be Michelle Branch or one of her teen pop sensation friends (or maybe Crazy Town or whoever he got to help him) because thats the target audience with this album because those kids (when they're not listening to Metallica and Michelle Branch) like to listen to Paul Oakenfold's Bunkka and pretend they're at a rave, which is their #1 dream...too bad their parents won't let them go, time to rebel. I strongly advise that you avoid this album as if touching it would instantly give you AIDS.

This is no sellout
All you ignorant people who label Oakenfold as selling out are, well, just ignorant. As Michael Jackson on South Park said, "That's just ignorant." And it is. Do you think you're coming off as a smart, intelligent, know-it-all trance fans when you say he has sold out? Those two words are so misused and abused together it's disgusting. I don't even have the time to go into this further, it's not worth it. But I wanted to defend Oakenfold and this CD and mention that there is no selling out and it's an excellent blend of styles to create an edgy, well-balanced mix of great music. Obviously, anyone who is saying he sold out isn't truly knowledgeable about music. Try to sound like you know what "true" music is, but you don't. And you people obviously aren't artists yourselves, because if you were, you would know the dire need to completely explore new terrain from time to time. I'm done. Buy this CD for a good time, end of discussion.

you yanks just don't get it? from a brit!!
Bunkka is not like anything Oakenfield has done before, which is good. Amazon double it up with Tranceport which is like chalk and cheese.I'm sorry but the professional reviews do not do it justice.Another guy says it is schizophrenic but that the point the juxtaposition of styles.This CD is not background music you positively have to engage with it.Play it on a Walkman and get a boring job done quicker.Play it in the car (the best place to listen to any music as you are encapsulated)very, very loud and drive fast. Its music to live to, that gets in your very soul.It is music to dance to not dance that has gone we have all moved on.

Not what you might expect
Paul Oakenfold has been one of the most famous trance remixers for a long time now but this is actually his first solo album where he's making the songs by himelf and the result is quite average actually. Remixing others songs is not such a difficult thing, afterall most good dj's are able to make a decent remix or a song.

If you expected many dance songs then you've bought the wrong album, Only "Ready steady go" and "Southern Sun" sound like typical Oakenfold songs. The rest are a commercial mix with Guest Artists that take more place then Paul does. I loved "Starry Eyed Surprise" with rock-rapper Shifty Shellshock, it's no Oakenfold song but it's catchy with a gtood hook. "The Harder They Come" with Nelly Furtado was allright and also nice to see Emiliana Torrini appear on "Hold Your Hand". I never liked "Get Em Up" with Ice Cube cause the Rap-trance mix doesn't fit. "Time Of Your Life" with Perry Ferrel is so so. I Paid attention to the collaboration more then the song itself.

Let's not blame Paul for trying, many others including Basement Jaxx did a album with guest artists, the case here is that making a "own" album is morr then just adding a wide range of guest artists. Paul should have taken his time and created something that the fans really wanted to hear. Sure some songs are good here but they are far from the great trance remixes he normally makes. Average album. ... Read more

Album Description

Originally released in 1995, Boulevard sold over 300,000 copies worldwide, was elected Record of the Year in England and served as a cornerstone for a legion of artists and producers interested in trying to capture its elusive and sexy grooves. Boulevard, new version the complete series includes two special extra songs, including the rare early hit "Alabama Blues," both taken from 1999’s From Detroit to St. Germain, a compilation of cuts recorded over seven years. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

THE FIRST SHOT FIRED IN THE NEW COOL
This is the hippest, coolest, jazziest of the 21st century. A new genre of jazz, HOUSE JAZZ. Chillin jazz is right here for your listening and laid back pleasure. This is chill music jazz. The songs are hypnotic beats, very underplayed, with full jszz improvisation. This is not light jazz, believe me. It's jazz over house beats. One song even starts off paying tribute to the world wide DJ's of house. It is jazz, house, dub. That's the best way to define what this listen is. If you're a bebop purist, stay away. But if you really understand jazz this is your place to be. Jazz is about innovation and improvisation. New stuff. Let's leave the past behind. Always moving ahead. Miles would be proud. The first shot fired in the 21st. century cool revolution.

Dull
There are three good songs on this album: Deep In It, Street Scene, and Forget It. The rest of the tracks are filler. Alabama Blues is a good disco song, but it doesn't fit in with the rest of the slow-cool-jazz-groove thing on the rest of the disc.

Buy TOURIST instead.

A new version for what is the standard of Paris Jazz House
Despite the acclaim and exposure which 2000's 'Tourist' provided to St. Germain, to his loyal followers that was only a mainstream acknowledgment of what they've known all along: Germain has mad skills and his place in practically founding the "French Touch" sound of dub/house/jazz/blues was cemented many years prior with the 1995 release of his 'Boulevard - The Complete Series' album.

I believe that the track listing as provided by Amazon.com may be incorrect for this 2002 reissue and it appears they have accidentally displayed the track listing of the 95 version instead. If so, here is the corrected listing.

1. Deep In It
2. Street Scene (4 Shazz)
3. Sentimental Mood
4. What's New?
5. Dub Experience II
6. Forget It
7. Soul Salsa Soul
8. Alabama Blues (Todd Edwards Vocal Mix)

The inclusion of the tracks "Soul Salsa Soul"[7] and "Alabama Blues (Todd Edwards Vocal Mix)"[8] allow the listener to experience some of Germain's earlier recordings. (For a compilation of other Germain B-side-like recordings see 'From Detroit to St. Germain') It was in Germain's early recording years where he began to exude the vibe of his "French" style. It was as his music needed to mature, but you could see the brilliance in strong flashes. It is these two tracks which make this version of Boulevard positively more upbeat compared to its original version. The older version of 'Boulevard' had a decidedly more Blues and Jazz taste.

"Soul Salsa Soul" is a great booty-shaking, latin-house track. "Alabama Blues", given the Todd Edwards flavor, is suitable for inclusion in a dance-hall set. Jazz-based with subtle house rhythms, Miles Davis would be proud if he heard "Street Scene". "Deep In It" may be the song which served as the lynchpin in defining Germain's "french touch" style. If there is one primary fault of this 2002 reissue, it is the exclusion of "Easy to Remember"; I was surprised that the record label couldn't stretch out one more additional track.

Moving in stereo,
-Daz

St. Germain - Use it at YOUR next party
Re-released from a their 1995 album of the same name is truly a masterpiece of the electronic, trip-hop genre. The deep grooves and chill vibes on this album truly relax and soothe as they progress. The first track, "Deep In It" combines a jazzy electronic keyboard vibe with a low-key background beat. "What's New" is a musical tribute to the major underground house music artists out there and has a flowing, easy-going beat. "Dub Experience" provides an island trip-hop groove, reminiscent of a Police sound session mixed over a Bob Marley track. Very nice. The slower "Forget It" mixes a slow bass beat with a Miles Davis type vibe to a cool perfection. With all the songs on this album, one can't go wrong playing it at their next get together, or just hanging around on their own, chilling with a bud. Get it and enjoy. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Only A Few Songs Really Hit
Ralph Tresvant's debut album had the distinct challenge of matching or surpassing the success of Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill and Bell Biv DeVoe's post-NE projects. After years of duty as the group's lead singer, Ralph's time was now to breakthrough.

Unfortunately, the album doesn't do much to help. Aside from the classic #1 hit "Sensitivity", plus the moderate hits "Do What I Gotta Do" and "Stone Cold Gentleman", the remaining material just doesn't cut it for Ralph.

Ralph Tresvant was supposed to have the biggest solo success from New Edition. His silky vocals on the group's 1988 album "Heart Break" was proof of how much potential he had and with this album sort of lost.

Safe to say, Ralph was the only NE member to have better success with the group versus without.

Ralph Tresvant
New Edition member Ralph Tresvant's self-titled debut album is great. It features the hits "Sensitivity," "Do What I Gotta Do," and "Stone Cold Gentleman." Tresvant's smooth soulful vocals are all over this album. Whether you like slow romantic ballads or fast jams, you will love this album. The album also features writers and producers like the hit-making team Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Babyface, and L.A. Reid. The best tracks on the CD are "Sensitivity," "Stone Cold Gentleman," "Do What I Gotta Do," "I Love You (Just For You)," and "Alright Now" which was co-written by Michael Jackson. With all this, this album is a must buy!!! Go and check it out now!!

His Only Success Outside Of New Edition!
Ralph Tresvant was great as lead singer of New Edition but on his own his two CD's were probably the weakest. The self-titled debut was definitely the better of the two! "Rated R", "Sensitivity" (both versions), "Do What I Got To Do" and "I Love You" (in my view) were the gems of this CD! Still, I think this was the last gasp of the New Jack Swing movement as it began to wind down at this time.

one hit wonder
this album had two good songs at the most. ralph was good with new edition. it's apparently obvious that he can't stand alone. bobby should have been the lead for new edition. then we may never have seen this terrible album. ralph isn't that good of a singer. this shows that just because your the lead singer in a group doesn't mean you are the best. ralph is miles behind bobby.

A gentler, kinder, more mature New Edition solo act
This CD was not a ground breaking chart topper. That is probably due to poor promotion. But the CD includes some songs that are noteworthy: Sensitivity, Stone Cold Gentleman, and Do What I Gotta Do.

Let's face it: singers of the age Ralph was when this CD came out are expected to be hyped and loud. In comparison, Ralph was smooth and mature.

It's Tresvant's maturity has stood the test of time. I can listen to this CD 10 years later and appreciate it. I can't say the same material from other post New Edition spin offs (Bobby Brown, BBD). ... Read more

Amazon.com

For many bedroom producers, Daniel Bedingfield's debut must seem like a dream come true. A songwriter, home producer, and vocalist whose laptop recording of the title track was one of the biggest hits of 2001 in the UK, Bedingfield makes music that's one part Prince, one part Michael Jackson, and one part UK Garage. Poppy soul-funk in the vein of Cameo, he possesses a distinctive edge that sets him apart from countless other '80s revivalists. A softer side of Bedingfield emerges on "If You're Not the One," a ballad that could easily be dismissed as generic album-filling slush but, with a few listens, proves to be the kind of well-crafted song Jackson's Invincible lacked. One gripe: the re-recorded version of "Gotta Get Thru This," while far more polished and professional than its predecessor, lacks the infectious, raw groove of the original. Still, this album demonstrates how pop music should be made--with a strong emphasis on skill rather than image. --David Trueman ... Read more

Reviews (83)

Good to Some Degree
When I first heard "Gotta Get Thru This" on the radio, I was hooked immediately. After some extensive research, I finally found out that Daniel Bedingfield sang it. I bought this Cd yesterday. The acoustic version of "Gotta Get Thru This" is excellent as well as "Inflate My Ego." The rest of the songs remind me a little too much of Backstreet Boys/N'Sync. I bought this album expecting a good dance Cd, so was a little disappointed. I wouldn't recommend buying this if you expect the same thing I expected. However, if you don't mind the majority of the songs sounding "pop" then definitely buy this album.

Impressive
Daniel Bedingfield's success story is one that is interesting and somewhat endearing. He put "Gotta Get Thru This" on a mix cd and through the listeners reaction and demand, he created this album. The album is a good mixture of garage, pop, and dance. The title track was a monster hit and is catchy in its own right. "If You're Not The One" is an impressive ballad that stretches his vocals, but is also quite sad and personal. "James Dean (I Wanna Know)" is another great dance tune that would fit well as a single and in the clubs, I can only imagine the remixes. Other impressive songs include "Friday", "Inflate My Ego", and more. An impressive showing, well worth checking out.

Good pop with tasteful and catchy lyrics.
This is a pretty good CD (it took a couple listens for me to get into it), and judging by the tasteful (no profanity/vulgarity/sensuality) and the seemingly genuine spirituality of some of his lyrics and liner notes, Mr. Bedingfield seems to exude a Judeo-Christian influence.

Though not groundbreaking, his album is catchy, well-sculpted pop. Though sometimes I'm pushed past my limit of girl-obsessive songs (all but two of the twelve tracks are some form of romantic/hormonal contemplation), I still consider this a long-term enjoyment prospect. A tastefulness that almost no other (quality) pop record comes near brings this musically 4-star disc up to a 5.

love title song
I bought this CD for the title song. its got a really good beat. I also enjoy track 4. However, the rest of the CD lacks interest. Track 3 is misleading in that it is nothing like any of the other songs.

Daniel at his best
this cd was great .my favorite song is "if you're not the one"
it is a great ballad. if i was having a dance party it would be one of the first slow songs for sure. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Geogaddi, like Boards of Canada's 1998 debut album, Music Has the Right to Children, drifts its way into consciousness, rolling a fog of dark-hued psychedelia over slow-burning, lullaby melodies. Having led a reclusive existence in their Hexagon Sun studio, shunning interviews and live shows in an effort to escape the shrill, loud praise that accompanied Children's release, the enigmatic Scottish duo has stayed focused, creating another tour de force in the process. Geogaddi opens with no fanfare, with the bare hum of "Ready Lets Go" blossoming into the soporific, hypnotic chimes of "Music Is Math". But for the next 65 minutes, it's clear that while BOC move slow, they do so with the power of shifting glaciers. All their old influences--thenoise-as-melody drone of My Bloody Valentine, the brave futuristic synths ofNeu!--remain, but more than anything, Geogaddi is about the vivid sense of warm melancholy that lingers when the music fades out. It's another slow-burner, but Geogaddi is as utterly essential as its predecessor. --Louis Pattison ... Read more

Reviews (110)

I've been forcing myself to like this album
i've had music has the right since it was released in england back in 98. i thought it was not only groundbreaking and incredible but a true piece of modern music history. much like everyone else, i picked up a bunch of similar artists like the amazing mum cd, dntel, arovane, etc...and most of it has been excellent.

i waited for geogaddi for years and when i played it for the first time, i knew my expectations would never be reached. i wanted a progression of all the best parts...the analog synths, the warm techno sounds...what i got was 23 tracks of mediocrity. its as if the cd is a replica of music has the right with no progression, darker elements and weaker tracks...track #18 is probably the greatest boards track ever, a 1 minute synth that is so beautiful and there are several good tracks but overall, its not something i expect to listen to much.

chalk this one up to another case of the common sophomore slump for electronic artists (see basement jaxx, goldie, air, rae and christian, and soon to be dj shadow)...

Dark and unsettling, yet excellent
It took me quite a few listens to start to enjoy Music has the right to Children. Even after a few dozen listens, it still gives me this creepy feeling, as though someone is watching me.

I was both anxious and panicked at the thought of listening to their new album, Geogaddi. There was a lot of hype surrounding this album, but it's not diappointing in any way. It still has that same uneasy feeling as MHTRTC, yet the sound is much more, how should I put this, organic.

While both albums are dark and methodical, Geogaddi stands out as less mechanical and slightly more approachable. Well, as approachable as a BOC album can get. It's definitely not an album you can put in a CD player for some friends and expect them to like it immediately. It's just so poignant and involved. I just don't see how it could possibly be used as background music for whatever you're doing. It deserves careful and attentive listening.

My personal favorite is Alpha and Omega. The mix of smooth percussions and what sounds like a distorted flute is unsettling, surprising even. The entire album is wonderfully uneven, with smooth pieces and equally rapid ones mixed chaotically. A definite must-have.

Good Music at first...
Just like my longer review for Music has the Right to Children. Their music is good but has references to the occult, satanism, hypnotism, and brainwashing. Look it up on the net.

The Devil Is In The Details
Boards of Canada are often criticized for not being innovative, just exploring the depths of their own "trademark" style. I can argue with that. They have been developing their sound for over 20 years(believe it or not, Marcus And Mike were about 10 when they made their first attempts to compose music in a primitive form of what they are doing now). On Geogaddi they spent 4 years of making, choosing 23 songs(the last of which silent) from about 90.
Geogaddi is a well-made record, but somehow in the reverse way. You can hear this throughout the album - every tune is somehow damaged, perfect in its imperfection. This is not a chillout record(the term chillout in fact could not be used to describe anything BoC), it is a difficult and disturbing listen. "Play twice before listening" - this is a good piece of advice if you feel Geogaddi is a rip-off.
It is composed basically of short-length tracks and full-length ones(I mention those second because they seem to be dominated by the sometimes irritating interludes. Listening to this album feels like a tough experience("geo" means Earth in ancient Greek, "gad" means running and "di" means two - running twice around the Earth?). Some of the interludes are quite pleasing, though - my favourite is Dandelion.
The full-on tracks are also quite disturbing at times. The Boards seem to have grown up a litte more than on MHTRTC - more paranoia, more subliminal messaging(with some references to the Branch Davidians, most notably on 1969).
As a whole, the best tracks here are Music Is Math(nice tune ended by a weird noise), Sunshine Recorder(the percussion here is incerdibly well-crafted), Julie And Candy(a mess of a symphony, made mostly with recorders), 1969(pop-music BoC style - my friends seem to love it so much, not knowing its lyrics "Although not a follower of David Koresh, she's a devoted Branch Davidian" - references to Amo Bishop Roden), The Beach At Redpoint(a good example of tabla drums used, the bad example provided by Alpha And Omega, which is a little too long), The Devil Is In The Details(the focus being not really on the details, but on the rather minimal music - the riff is based on a mathematical equation), Dawn Chorus(think Moby's Porcelain, distorted and rough, but somehow even catchier with the vocals). The last peak on Geogaddi is You Could Feel The Sky - a minimal track that doesn't really stand out among the other, more complex sonically numbers. It contains the already famous reversed voice sample "the God with hooves".
Corsair fades slowly into Magic Window, and the album stops at 66 mins, 6 secs. A smart move.

a cd for dark tribal rituals deep deep in the woods...
I am willing to take the Boards of Canada as seriously as they take themselves. A lot of people talk about the mood and atmospheric effect of their music instead of the actual content becasue all the meticulously crafted and sonically tweaked ingredients that the Boards mix into the brew are meant to produce a unified effect. This album is kind of like the last one, and you will not be surprised by anything from the first time you see the case to the first time you listen to it. Even though it has been four years, there are still a lot of short filler tracks (but not weak filler, sometimes they're the strongest tracks) and crunchy hip hop beats. But this cd is darker and deeper than Music Has the Right to Children. There an astonishing number of creepy hidden samples buried and layered into the tracks. You Could Feel the sky, besides being a strong song by itself, is filled with dark satanic undertones. I could talk about other strong tracks; I have my favorites like everyone else, but little on this album could be considered bad. The highly stylized nature of this group's work is entirely consistent in all their work, so if you dig their other stuff, pop this in your walkman, and take a long walk in the woods in the middle of the night... ... Read more

Amazon.com

An oasis of calm amidst the turbo-fueled clubbing tornado that is Ibiza, Café Del Mar is the White Isle's original home of red-eye chill-out vibes and weepy sunset soundtracks. The series of compilations bearing the bar's name, meanwhile, have long patented that authentic sound of Balearic bliss (even claiming Madonna as a huge fan), and this seventh volume maintains the high standards. Founding DJ Jose Padilla may have long moved on, but his successor, DJ Bruno, is clearly well aware of the old adage about not fixing what ain't broke. There's the usual mix of names well known (Moby, Bedrock, Nightmares On Wax) and head-scratchingly obscure (Uko, Lux, Aromabar), but the sound of beautiful music for loved-up and lazy beach bums stays the same. Frankly, this sounds as good at home as it does on the early-morning terraces of San Antonio. --Calvin Bush ... Read more

Reviews (28)

Drifting and Dreaming
Of all the Cafe Del Mar CDs I have (3,5,6,7 and 8), I enjoy listening to this one the most. Jose Padilla has moved on, but Bruno clearly understands the definition of "chillout".
Lux's opener, Northern Lights, sets the pace, and is followed by a remix Afterlife's Breather 2000. Incidentally, Steve Miller has a hand in both groups, and both reappear on Volume 8. Apart from Northern Lights, Deep & Wide's Easy Rider, and Beautiful Strange by Bedrock are worth mentioning. Among the best tracks is Moby's Whispering Wind, which was later included on the Play b sides. I do not know why it wasn't on Play, because in my opinion, it is better that anything on Play. Nightmares On Wax have done an amazing remix of a song by Bush, Letting The Cables Sleep. Bush are a rock band, similar to Blur and Oasis, but this track fits seamlessly onto the album.
This disc is good after a long day, during an easy day, at any time during the day. You can listen to it, or play it in the background. It's not good if you need some solid music to get your teeth into, but otherwise, it's great.

unique downtempo grooves
A year after buying Vol. 7 and Vol. 8, I still find myself spinning these grooves up. Timeless downtempo joy.

Nikolai Safavian Says Get This
This tops the Del Mar collection. It is also among the best played in clubs in Bukara and Baku. Every person has music moments that need this.

I'm definetly hooked
This is the first volume of this series that I got. All I can say is, superb!
The quality of the music in this CD is absolutely amazing. If you're looking for something calm yet trendy and cool you will definetly like this.
I'll be adding more volumes to my list very soon.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU
I'm so grateful for such beautiful music. Put this on, the whole world opens up. It is so gorgeous it makes you glad to be alive. That ain't no jive! You need this CD in your car, at the bar, even in war. It extends your vision SO FAR! That beat, so great--don't hesitate! Hear it--with God you've got a date. For this CD there's not enough stars to rate. Thank you all world class musicians for CHILL OUT DOWNTEMPO--It's heaven sent for us below! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Not in the same vein as previous UCs
I have all of the Ultra Chilled series and while I usually enjoy 80% of the music on those collections, with about half of that entering my permanent rotation, there were only three songs in this version that I could even sit through.

Those were the tracks done by Jon Hopkins, Bent, and Federico Aubele. The rest were not strictly chill, dreadful as music and some were depressing (a few tracks regarding death, including one where the singer is "waiting for suicide" or some such angst).

There is a bit of jazz, electronica, blues, dance and alternative music in Ultra Chilled 05, but little chill and nothing exemplary.

Nice effort from Ultra
A very refreshing compilation of chillout tunes, though I could live without "Glorious" from Sa-Ra.

If you're a fan of chillout, I'd highly recommend this compilation.

:(
I didn't like it.I own Ultra Chilled 01 and 02, and really dig them both...but this one really isn't my style at all - didn't like any of the sounds I heard.
Thought it would have been as good or better than 1 and 2, but it wasn't.


... Read more

From Amazon.ca

The You and the Now is French Canadian singer and cellist Jorane's English-language début. Boasting production by Michael Brook, writing by Lisa Germano and Simon Wilcox, and the appearance of Daniel Lanois on "Pour ton sourire" (the only Francophone track), it's undoubtedly her best album yet. Though it's more rhythmic and less vaporous and mannered than her previous outings, it remains a Jorane album--one on which every track is worth hearing. ... Read more