Amazon.com

Featuring the soothing narration of Deepak Chopra over the trancelike music ofAdam Plack, The Soul of Healing Meditations serves as an introduction to meditation for neophytes and as a more advanced tool to help overcome a physical ailment and/or emotional toxicity. That may make it sound like a digital elixir, but as Chopra says in his liner notes: "We like to tell our patients (at the Chopra Center for Well Being) that the body is the best pharmacy in the world and is capable of making wonder drugs."His message here is that one can naturally prevail over serious life challenges by becoming more attuned to one's body--by relaxing and filtering out the external world, focusing on and influencing internal sensations and biorhythms, and banishing negative thoughts and focusing on the positive aspects of life. This CD is not meant as a cure-all for physical or emotional ills. Rather, it's a supplemental experience to other treatments or programs, and it shows how enlightening and empowering meditation can be when practiced properly. Its actual effects will depend upon the receptiveness of the listener. Plack's accompanying soundtrack ranges from delicate ambient tones to more active Indian music, appropriately serving the mood of each of the album's eight tracks. --Bryan Reesman ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Peace & Joy
Wonderful CD! It's a joy to listen to! Some tracks were very calming, others were energizing...the benefits were apparent immediately. Dr. Chopra's voice was very soothing, and the lessons were very useful & comforting. The music was cool too.

Very quick & convenient way to bring some peace into your life & get you ready to face the world. Highly recommended. I even lost weight after listening to this a few days (crazy, right? more nervous binges)

You have to listen to it to get the benefits!
I just finished listening to the CD. WOW! You have to experience the whole CD to get the benefits from it. I did listen to the tracks online before I ordered it. I had a hunch it would turn out to be a peace filling experience.... And it was! I recommend this CD to anyone who wants to relax and let go any tension in their body. It is simply amazing! I had heard about Deepak Chopra's books but this CD is pure healing.

Best guided relaxation source I ever had.
I have several guided meditation tapes, CDs and videos but none have ever taken me so deeply within my Self as this one.

The background chanting and oriental music was a pleasant surprise.

Awsome and Profound
This CD is a must have for those on a spiritual healing path. I LOVE, the results are amazing from just the first time. I am very excited about adding it to my usual nightly meditation routine.

Heal Yourself with Deepak Chopra meditations
I noticed significant changes in my physical body and my awareness after the first time. I highly recommend this to everyone who is willing to commit the time to reap the benefits. It's powerful and awesome. I love it. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

HILARIOUS CD
i first heard Ron White on BLUE COLLAR COMEDY TOUR and couldn't stop laughing this cd is great there are afew things from BLUE COLLAR COMEDY TOUR and here's my review

1 SUNGLASSES he talks about seeing some sunglasses he likes he don't love them he likes them and they're more than his 25inchtv

2 TRUTH IN ADVERTISING says there is something near truth"DIAMONDS THAT'LL SHUT HER UP"

3 PLANE CRASH joke from BCCT "IF ONE OF THESE ENGINES FAILS THE OTHER WILL TAKE US TO THE SCENE OF THE CRASH CAUSE THAT'S WHERE WERE HEADING"

4CINCINNATI CHILI this track is ok buy the cd to hear it

5 HURRICANE GEORGE tells of a stupid man who claims to withstand the wind of a category 3 hurricane

6 I DRINK TOO MUCH very short but very funny

7 10 DAYS IN LA says "IF YOU EVER GET THE CHANCE TO BE IN LA PASS"

8 OUTLAW VIDEO GAMES SAYS THEY SHOULD GIVE THE GUN GAMES TO THE POLICE"LAST YEAR ONE GUY SHOT 9 PEOPLE WITH 8 BULLETS POLICEWITH22 BULLETS COULDN'T HIT THE SUBURBAN"

9 COUSIN RAY says how his cousin worships hunting

10 MARRIED A WEALTHY WOMAN best track on cd tells of a sucky marriage to a rich woman

11 CHEATING IN COLUMBUS talks of how he divorced "IF YOU GO 3 MONTHS WITHOUT HAVING SEX WITH ME I'LL HAVESEX WITH SOMEONE ELSE IKNOW I'VE SEEN ME DOIT"

12 OSAMA BIN LADEN it couldn't be a comedycd without a bin laden joke

13LUG NUT DAY he tells of sears messing up his van "I PROMISED SEARS I'D TELL THIS ONE UNTIL THE LAWSUIT SETTLES"

14 CAR SALESMEN jokes of disliking carsalesmen "I WOULD'VE BOUGHT MY VAN FROM SOMEONE ELSE BUT CARSALESMEN ARE THE ONLY PEOPLE WHO SELL CARS"

15 THEY CALL ME "TATER SALAD" you've been on another planet if you haven't heard this one

"Can't ride home on a bowl of goat..." (4.5 stars)
Ron White is a very funny and talented comedian that has a lot of potential, and that potential is very well displayed on his first album, "Drunk in Public." While many were introduced to him through the comedy concert movie, "Blue Collar Comedy Tour," I first heard of him through some of my friends. So, I decided to purchase the CD without hearing the man do a single set. It is a decision that I'm happy I made, because Ron White knows how to show you a good time without breaking a sweat.

White talks about a variety of things on his album... most of them involve drinking. Hence the title of the album. Still, he talks about a lot of other things as well. He talks about being married to a "spoiled" wife with rich parents, and how she can't really do anything on her own. He talks about an experience on a small plane where they were uncertain if they would ever see home again... although, Ron didn't really care since he was drinking. A nervous passenger asks him if one of the engines burn out how far will the other one take them, and Ron casually replies, "Right to the crash site." He even bets the man that they'll beat the paramedics there by a half an hour. He talks about his cousin who loves to hunt, and he talks his loathing of Sears. There's many more on the album, but those are just some of the real headliners.

I really enjoyed listening to this album. Ron White is a very relaxed comic... so relaxed that he actually drinks and smokes during his routine. His set never feels forced or recycled. He's very subtle and confident about his material, and it really shows. His "relaxed" style really works for his routine and makes him a real standout.

The only problem I had with the album is that it's too short. The total running time is a little over 39 minutes long. Usually, comedy routines on albums run about an hour long (sometimes a little less, sometimes even a little more). I was kind of sad that the CD was so short. I remember saying to myself, "That's it?!" It is only a minor complaint, but I still feel that the album could've been a little longer. I'm sure he didn't run out of material.

My favorite tracks are "sunglasses," "truth in advertising," "plane crash," "ten days in los angeles," "outlaw video games," "married to a wealthy woman," "lug nut day," and "they call me 'tater salad.'" I like them all, but those are some of my favorites.

Ron White's "Drunk in Public" is a very funny first album, and it shows a lot of promise for future achievements. Despite it being a tad short, it's still a very worthy listen. I think that he will really go places if he keeps it up. If you're looking for a funny comedian that is subtle and hilarious, Ron White is your man. Don't forget to enjoy a nice cold one when you pop this bad boy into the stereo. -Michael Crane

"I was drunk in a bar! They threw me into PUBLIC!"
Ron White is an incredibly funny and original comedian. Anyone who saw him on the Blue Collar Comedy Tour should certainly attest to that. He rants and raves about all sorts of things in a very interesting fashion. Ron proves that he's not just another typical redneck comedian building off of redneck stereotypes, such as Larry the Cable Guy and Jeff Foxworthy. This is good because he doesn't end up alienating his audience by only telling jokes only Southerners can appreciate.

If you already have the "Tater Salad" DVD, don't bother buying this CD, since the DVD has basically all the same comedy and even more. Also, don't bother buying the Blue Collar Comedy Tour if you want to see "more" of Ron since his skit is basically an abridged version of his act with 1 or 2 new things thrown in.

He is rather crude at times, but if you're not offended by dirty language then you're bound to have fun. I would not recommend playing this for the first time while driving your car, because odds are you'll be laughing so hard that you're bound to be a driving hazard.

This guy is funnier than h---!
We keep trying to find an opportunity to see him live. This guy is the epitome of perfect timing, coupled with a down home delivery. Highly recommmended.

Ron White is great!! Excellent! The only problem...
....is that the crowd laughter at the comedy club is WAY too loud for this disc! You have to adjust the volume while listening because the crowd gets louder than Ron White! The comedy, though, is brilliant and I highly suggest getting this album! His delivery is great; catch him on the Blue collar comedy tour DVD!! ... Read more

Reviews (29)

disco's best cd
this cd is a genius mix of great disco songs. its hard not to like it. to understand why, just look at whats on it: celebration by kool & the gang (classic), funkytown by lipps inc, dancing queen by abba, ymca by the village people, and many more. i mean, who doesnt know YMCA? also on this cd are less popular songs, such as knock on wood and hot stuff, but they were still popular and you will most likely know them as soon as you listen to the cd. at the end is the awesome grease megamix that anyone who likes the movie grease will know all the words to. on the megamix are grease lightning, you better shape up, you're the one that i want, and summer nights. this cd is great for parties along with personal listening because once you turn it on, everyone will want to get up and dance. Pure disco is the best disco mix around.

Disco is making a come back.
Well maybe Disco isn't really coming back, but at least this compilation sounds better than ever. Plus, when thinking about it, when did it ever actually end? There's not much that really separates the music of twenty-five to thirty years ago with today. Disco was the generic term for dance music of the 70s and maybe 1980 and 81 up until MTV came into the scene. Today dance music still is around, even if several of these artists are not. But it is fun hearing the roots of clubbing and rave. Look at what you will get with this CD:Funkytown by Lipps Inc., which featured members of the Prince's Revolution Band famous for his Purple Rain disc, Abba's Dancing Queen which inspired a Broadway play Mamma Mia, Celebration by funk-disco band Kool and the Gang, a classic. I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor which is one of the most covered tunes and a top dance song of all time. The Gap Band is here and they are an eighties favorite. Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and Barry White are legends and they're here. My favorite song is Amii Stewart's Knock on Wood from this collection. Plus among other's the famous mix of Grease tunes from the movie not found elsewhere. Give it a try and buy the other two as well. I am sure you will dance all night.

Great collection of Classic Disco
Yea, we all love to dance- but this collection of music
are classics and they always get people young and old up to
dance. Disco is NOT dead!

What a great series!
Let me first go on record saying that my favorite artists of all time (at this point) are Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. In that vein, you wouldn't really expect a guy with a taste for that sort of music to dig disco. But I really do. Disco music defines "good times." If you've ever been to any sort of party in your life (hosted by a professional DJ, that is), the odds are you've heard a number of the songs on this compilation. And they're all great.

Some are better than others, of course, but each song is catchy and the bass lines are funky. Not to mention cheesy. If you're looking for a cool collection of disco music and don't want to splurge the cash for expensive box sets or individual artists' albums, the "Pure Disco" series is a great investment. Throw in the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack and you've got enough great disco songs to blister your feet up.

Why only four stars instead of five? That's easy. Barry White's "the First, the Last, My Everything" isn't the REAL version. Polygram omitted the spoken introduction and the phrasing is just a bit different from the original version. Must be some sort of radio edit.

Despite this, great compilation. Two other recommendations: "the Bee Gee's Greatest Hits: the Record" and "Barry White: the Ultimate Collection."

PURE DISCO / VOL . 1, 2 & 3
This is the best disco set available!!! Although,disco music
was short lived,it was an era that no one will forget.To some it
was a fashion statement.To others,a threat of,the downfall of
rock & roll music,as we knew it.No matter how you felt about it you must agree that some of best feel good music came from that
generation.I also feel that the word: "CHEESY" came from this time period.I,myself,liked it because I could sleep in my clothes
without the fear of wrinkling them... ... Read more

Album Description

This is a new recording with a great cast, under the direction of Michael Lavine, of the Tony Award winning musical Wicked.This album contains two Cds.The first disc has the cast singing the songs of the show, and the second disc has just the orchestra for you to sing with.In addition,this album contains "No One Mourns the Wicked" as well as "Something Bad." In this version of "No One Mourns the Wicked" you have material found ONLY in the Broadway show. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Reykjavík-based noise quartet Sigur Rós are the biggest band in their native Iceland, which should say much, much more about the collective insanity of that earthquake-ridden, blizzard-beaten crag of an island than anything to do with Sigur Rós's sound. But in their music, Sigur Rós reflect all the breathtaking glory of the Icelandic wastes--a fairy-tale explosion of unhinged elemental majesty that's finally crystallized here, their debut European release. Poised somewhere between the haunting soundscapes of Labradford and the lilting Celtic falsetto of Enya, Agaetis Byrjun is a truly breathtaking listen. Frontman Jon Por Birgisson sings in a language that Sigur Rós dub "Hopelandic"--an otherworldly mutation of Icelandic, sung in the falsetto cadence of angels; similarly, he plays his guitar with a violin bow, opening the floodgates for brilliant waves of feedback. And while it's the opening "Svefn-G-Englar" that's Sigur Rós' moment to date, there's far more that they have to offer; listen to the pomp and flourish of a full orchestra on "Flugufrelsarinn," or the awe-inspiring near-religious mantra of "Ny Batteri." --Amazon.co.uk ... Read more

Reviews (233)

Surprised when I found out they were human beings...
After introducing many listeners to their distinct sound by way of the "Vanilla Sky" sountrack album, Icelandic quartet Sigur Rós (pronouned "Seer Rose" with the R's rolled) has built a following interested in expanding their tastes in music and virtually elimintaing insomnia. Agaetis Byrjun (pronounced "Ow-gate-is Beeryune"), the band's third overall album to date, is their masterpiece. It is the ultimate realization of the spectrum of human emotion, and, when accompanied by candles and a good pair of headphones, proves as an adequate cure for sleep deprevation. The band's instrumentation is relatively simple: vocals, guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards/synthesizers. The miracle of this is the otherworldly sound channeled through these instruments and into the ears, heart, and soul of the listener.
The album begins with an intro, roughly a minute long, which resembles an underwater choir singing an irresistable refrain, chopped and repeated by the loopwork of keyboardist Kjartan Sveinsson. It slowly travels into the now-famous "Svefn-G-Englar"(Sleepwalkers) by way of the repeating ping of a sonar detector and the rumbling of an underwater submarine. The two songs together serve as an exposition to a much grander scheme, but it is here that we are introduced to Sigur Rós' distinctive blend of angelic vocals, channeling bass work, etherreal percussion, and quite possibly the most beautiful guitar feedback ever recorded, by way of guitarist/vocalist Jonsi running a cello bow along the strings. From this, the listener is transported into the stellar "Staralfur" by way of a rapidly drumming heartbeat. From first listen, one is compelled to make a nighttime trip to an open field to gaze at a star-painted sky, revelling in the sheer beauty of life.
Next is the hypnotic "Flugufrelsarinn", brought in by a combination of wind and guitar screeching. The song borderlines erotica, and is as irresistable as it is trance-inducing. Brass hummings bring in "Ny Batteri", a song that is altogether more melancholy in its scope as compared with the rest of the album. It's as if the band is lost in its own emotional maelstrom, struggling to find any signs of light. A peephole is found in the jazz-like "Hjartad Hamast", which sounds like Miles Davis as interpreted by a Martian. The peephole then tears, to become the rejuvenation that is "Vidrar Vel Til Loftarasa". The longest song on the album, it is arguably the most beautiful, shifting through 4 main phrases all in one swift, breathtaking motion.
Now that the rejuvenation has been found, it is time for the youthful abandon that is "Olsen Olsen". The timely, enchanting bass riff guides the listener through a dark forest leading to a meadow, filled with a grand choir encircling a lone flutist. Immediately following is the smile-inducing title track, "Agaetis Byrjun". The guitar intro fades in from nothing, and the divine instrumentation makes the listener think of the same. A flying kite comes to mind in this song. As for "Avalon", the closer, nothing will be disclosed. It serves as a final farewell to the listener, tucking them in goodnight, and letting them rest assured that life is indeed filled with beauty, if they would only allow their ears to hear it.
Simply put, this is one of the most beautiful albums ever made. Sigur Rós is a band not easily dismissed. Agaetis Byrjun is an experience not easily forgotten. Your ears, mind, heart, soul, and eyelids will love you forever.

A new favourite of mine
I stumbled into Sigur Ros after someone on a messageboard I frequent was expressing excitement about their then-upcoming third album ( ), which I bought the day it was released stateside. I was duly impressed, but it was after I bought Agaetis Byrjun that the band really sunk it's claws into me.

For an album who's songs stretch up into the the ten minute range, this is a very accessable record. The instrumentals are soothing yet intense, often at the same time (think Kid A-era Radiohead), as this is very much mood music. Pianos interweave with bowed electric guitars, fingerpicked acoustics, moderate percussion, keyboard melodies, etcetera. One song (Olsen Olsen, I believe) even has a somewhat dischordant orchestral bombast.

As far as the vocals, Jonsi has a beautiful falsetto (no one I play this for believes that's a guy at first), and even though I don't understand the lyrics (they are Icelandic after all), I like the tonal quality of them.

To a point, Vanilla Sky did for Sigur Ros what Benny & Joon did for the Proclaimers: gave an unknown band stateside a few minutes in the spotlight. Given, Sven-g-Englar (which loosely translates to Sleepwalkers I think), the song on the VS soundtrack, is one you hear people going on about a lot. The standout, in my opinion however, is the title track, Agaetis Byrjun (A Good Beginning). Both are fantastic songs, though, and the rest of the album isn't much behind.

So yes. If you're in the mood for a three minute pop hook, obviously you would do well to look elsewhere. If you're willing to invest a little patience, however, Agaetis Byrjun is a top cut. Let it wash over you and see where it takes you.

I'VE FOUND NEAR PERFECTION
Anyone who appreciates beautiful music would love this album. It's not something you listen to when you're drunk in the club, or jamming in your car down the boardwalk on the beach, but its something to listen to and enjoy by yourself. These songs make you think of life, of past relationships, of God, and of the world. The only problem with this is, if you are mainly for lyrics, and you don't speak the language of this band, you will not understand a word, let alone spell a song's name. Do not listen to this album to find meaning in the words. Let the singer's voice and sounds be part of the music instead of focusing on what he is saying. I believe this is an album where you will either REALLY love it or it just won't be for you. If you are strictly into American pop music, hiphop/R&B, metal or hard rock, or close-minded to a certain hardcore sound, this album might not be for you. If you are open-minded to music that isn't just screaming and hardcore riffs, and isn't filled with hot beats with someone yappin about ridin on dubs and 24's, this might catch your ear. This is what music is supposed to be. I'm not saying this is what all music should be. I am saying that all music, whatever genre, should be on this level. If that were possible, the world would be a much more enjoyable place. If you have time to listen to this album, I strongly strongly strongly recommend it.

Superb
This is my number one desert island CD. Orgasmic and haunting are the best ways I can describe this album. If Iceland has it's own equivalent of the Smithsonian, than a copy of Agaetis Byrjun deserves to be placed in it immediately.

Mind bending, influencial recordings
I can only describe this album in few words, since there is so much to describe it with, it's amazing. Absolutely stunning. The violin bow added to the guitar playing is just great. Beautiful, melodic music. A good buy, and a classic to keep in your collection ... Read more

Amazon.com

After a quarter-century of punk and postmodern excesses, it's always something of a surprise to find young musicians who not only recall a past era's musical indulgences, but also revel in them. This Lava Records debut is the latest fruit of Porcupine Tree mainstay Steven Wilson's obsession with prog, a mania that dates to the late '80s when the "band" was little more than a fantasy, though one with a remarkably imaginative--if entirely fictional--history and bio. But that pipedream eventually became a real "alt prog" cult fave, with these dozen ambitious songs finding a focus that occasionally eluded the band on half-hour soundscapes like its underground hit, "Voyage 34." Tracks like "Gravity Eyelids" have a retro-psychedelic feel that would have done the XTC alter ego Dukes of Stratosphear proud, with Wilson's pure melodic tenor pushing it beyond the merely baroque. But the collection is also a strong statement of another crucial Wilson/Porcupine retro-sensibility: The album has unified musical statement. "Lips of Ashes" and "Prodigal" serve up the sort of impressionistic, harmony-rich musings that Pink Floyd has rarely managed since Wish You Were Here, while "The Creator Has a Master Tape" punctuates the rich harmonies of tracks like "Heart Attack in a Layby" with Crimson-esque metallic thrash and processed vocals. While the band's instrumental prowess sometimes slums its way into the free-form jazz noodling of past efforts, the album remains one of the band's fullest achievements. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (177)

"Black the sky, weapons fly..."
I have always heard of the name Porcupine Tree when I started getting into the modern-day progressive rock bands, but I had never heard anything by them and was skeptical whether or not they'd be any good. A few weeks ago, I bought a copy of their latest album IN ABSENTIA and was intrigued by the sound clips. This was some really heavy stuff, yet further info led me to discover that PT were a more mellow prog band on their earlier albums. You would never guess that from the blistering opening track "Blackest Eyes."

What Porcupine Tree have done on IN ABSENTIA is a truly remarkable achievement. By bridging the gap between old-school prog. rock and modern-day progressive metal and throwing in some melodic pop/rock for good measure, they have created a totally unique sound. There are some stunningly beautiful moments on this album, and some of the most intense moments I've ever heard. Yet, it always remains consistent and the album flows incredibly well. How else can you explain that the gorgeous "Heartattack in a Layby" is followed by the dark and punishing "Strip the Soul"?

The album begins with the aforementioned "Blackest Eyes," which expertly combines big, crunchy metal riffs with catchy harmonies and stellar acoustics. The song smoothly segues into "Trains," my personal favorite off the record. This track just might be the greatest pop song ever written. The two solos - one on acoustic guitar and the other on banjo - fit in perfectly, and Steve Wilson's vocals are heartbreaking and emotional, especially when you read the lyrics. After this great one-two punch, the song quality continues.

The excellent "The Sound of Muzak" is a slashing commentary on today's music industry, with clever lyrics and solid drumming. The 8-minute epic "Gravity Eyelids" starts off slowly with some innovative ambient samples and soundscapes that mesh wonderfully with Wilson's dry vocals, and around the 4 minute mark, a seriously heavy riff kicks in and the band rocks out for the remainder of the track until the ambience is repeated again at the end. The complex instrumental "Wedding Nails" is another rocking highlight, sounding like Black Sabbath and King Crimson jamming in the studio together. Nobody seems to have mentioned the beautiful ".3," but I think it's a mesmerizing, hypnotic song that conveys a lot of emotion through it's two lines of lyrics than anything else (one of them is my review title).

Unlike a lot of prog bands, Porcupine Tree's musicianship is used to serve the song rather than merely show off, but they still play great. The drummer Gavin Harrison is an absolute monster, laying down some killer grooves and playing some pretty speedy fills, especially on the industrial-like "The Creator Has a Mastertape." The guitar work is also fantastic. The tone and feel the riffs and solos are absolutely astonishing. The production is also top-notch, courtesy of Wilson as well, who also produced the last three Opeth albums (guess that's what inspired him to have the guitars heavier this time around).

IN ABSENTIA is a solid slab of classic progressive rock and deserves to be in everybody's collection. I don't use the word "masterpiece" very often, but that's what this album is. Once you own it, you'll feel the same way.

The BEST album of 2002!!
What can I say about the best album of 2002? Simple-it's the best album of 2002! Porcupine Tree has continued to amaze me with each of their releases. In fact, they are hands down my current favorite band.

"In Absentia" is clearly Porcupine Tree's heaviest album to date. Steven Wilson, after producing extreme metal band Opeth, has obviously brought his love of metal into the PT sound more than ever. From the opening crunching guitars in "Blackest Eyes," to the hard-edged instrumental, "Wedding Nails," this album will please the fans of harder rock while not threatening or discouraging those who like calmer music. The lighter side of PT is still there however, and the spaced out vibe and psychedelic influences have not left the band all together. These more laid back moments, mixed with the heaviness, make for a truly interesting, unique and powerful record.

What else would you expect from Porcupine Tree? Here's a band that has continued to evolve and change-never recording the same album twice. They push the limits and pre-conceived notions of todays rock while creating experimental, yet quite accessible music. This one-time solo project turned into a full-fledged band three records ago and now, this once underground, progressive, rock band has potential for major commercial success as "In Absentia" is Porcupine Tree's major label debut. Once Lava officially releases that all-important first single--watch out! This band's going to explode!

Porcupine Tree is, hands down, one of the most exciting things to happen to rock in years. There aren't enough great things I can say about all aspects of this group. From their early and odd beginning material, to the more accessible albums like "Stupid Dream" and this new record, Porcupine Tree is going to be a huge force to reckon with in 2003. They are simply the best rock band currently making music. This may be a bold statement, but once you discover the Tree for yourself, you'll understand!

It's just ok.
I am having a hard time understanding the buzz around this band. This is honestly an average album. NEUROSIS and TOOL have been making the same brand of music for about 15 years now. Porcupine Tree just doesn't stand up to these legendary bands, and in fact, they're boring by comparison. Not dark enough, not tough enough, not raw enough: this is basically standard commercial alternative rock. I wouldn't be surprised to hear any of these tracks released on commercial radio. That's basically what this album is; a collection of slightly above-average radio songs. I guess if you're bored and looking for something new, this album will surely please. But even the MINISTRY are producing better stuff than this right now. "In Abstentia" is an album I own on DVD-audio and I'm glad I do, but it's not as alternative, bizarre, or exciting as you may be hoping for. Check out stuff by the other three bands I mentioned first, or even by Mars Volta or Sigur Ros. Porcupine Tree just isn't on that level, hopefully they will be someday.

Amazon,Make it apparent this is a DVD
Amazon you guys DO NOT make it apparent at all this is a DVD you
A.Sell it in your CD area
and B.Do not imply in anyway it is a DVD.
Yes though Steven Wilson=Genius still not what I was looking for since it was a DVD it IS in fact an extraordinary DVD and I love it problem is,I'm travelling and kinda wanted to hear this cd.

Good first big-label release
Being a fan of Porcupine Tree for a few years, I was waiting in anticipation for their first release on Lava Records. Up to the official release, I read comments from longtime PT fans about how this was the end because PT signed with a big-label so in their eyes that automatically means they've "sold out". Nice to know bands aren't supposed to have a decent livelihood in order to please their hardcore fans.

Anyway, after giving In Absentia a listen, I was impressed. Did it sound a little more "mainstream" than what they've released in the past? Perhaps, but the result of this big-label release is that new listeners are now intrigued with what the group has produced in the past, and that's the whole point to signing to a bigger label: produce new music and at the same time have the ability to attract a larger audience that an independent label can't do, and in turn gets them curious about what you've previously done.

Anyway, back to the album itself. In Absentia definitely has a harder sound. Steven Wilson has said that he gets unfluenced by everything around him, and death metal was one of them. The harder metal sound is evident in songs like Blackest Eyes, Gravity Eyelids, Wedding Nails, and Strip the Soul. Some elements of what they've done in the past are still evidence such as the track .3, and Mr. Wilson even takes a jab at the music industry itself with the track The Sound of Muzak.

Overall, the album is still far better than much of the bs that comes out of the music world in this day and age. With so much coming just so it's listenable on MTV, it's nice to see that some groups don't fall into that trap. Porcupine Tree releasing material in a bigger label is here to stay, so deal with it. I definitely look forward to their next release. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Thanks For The Introduction To Mehdi
I've always enjoyed Steven Halpern and this album is no exception, but while reading some of the customer recommendations posted on this page I discovered an artist by the name of Mehdi (pronounced meddie). After some investigation I found his site (SoothingMusic.Com) and listened to the samples...
I was instantly blown away by the quality of this music and so I gave it a try and now that I have listened to his CDs several times I really must say that although I'm still a Halpern fan I find Mehdi to be a tad more interesting. I have them both in my multi-disc CD player and love the way they compliment each other. I highly recommend that you give this artist a try or atleast just go listen to the samples, I have a feeling you'll be glad you did.

Inner Peace Found!
Steven Halpern is a new artist to me. I haven't heard or listened to his music in the past, but I came across Inner Peace while searching for a nice yoga/meditation cd. I thought at first, "This looks like it'd work." Now that I have listened to it, I have no regrets for purchasing it. It was worth every penny and the music was unpredictable. Gentle, calm, and soothing to its listeners, this cd has become a crucial element in developing peace and relaxing.

Great Relaxation CD!
The best way to listen to this CD is with headphones, especially the last track. I also listen to this at night (without headphones) before I go to sleep-it definitely helped ease my anxiety while being unemployed.

Try it just once, and see what happens...
It is difficult to "rate" or "review" this kind of music, as the real value in the music resides inside the listener. May I suggest, if you have never been deliberate about relaxing or escaping life's stresses for a time, that you put yourself in a quiet, safe place, disconnect the phone, arrange your body in it's most comfortable position, and put a little pillow on your eyes to help you relax those muscles as well. Breath deeply and relax, and focus on the music. You will find yourself floating on gentle waves, in and out of thought, and will return to the real world physically and mentally refreshed, and thus more effective.

This album offers shorter tracks for shorter periods of relaxation, but they blend well together for a longer respite as well. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Thank you , Thank you , Thank you
This CD is wonderful, I found all the music for my wedding right here, and it sounds just like I wanted it to. I certainly recomend this to any bride looking for classy, beautiful music for thier wedding!

A Great CD for Your Wedding
My husband and I had a small elegant wedding (immediate family only). We wanted "classy" classical music for our ceremony. There were so many great songs on this CD that we had trouble choosing which ones to use! We settled on #1 (Hornpipe from the Water Music) and #16 (the traditional Wedding March). One would have thought the church was filled with a world-famous orchestra. I don't think anyone could go wrong with this CD if you want to use prerecorded classical music at your wedding.

Great For Outdoor Weddings
I had my wedding outside, in a large gazebo, but did not have
the funds to hire a musican to play traditional wedding songs at my ceremony. I also wanted the traditional "Here Comes The Bride" with out worring how it would sound for certain instruments. 'Classical Wedding' was WONDERFUL alternative and made my outdoor garden wedding spectacular!

Great Trumpet
The trumpeter on this recording is Gary Armstrong. He is incorrectly listed as Gray Armstrong. Thank you.

A great CD!
Reviewer: A music fan from Hartford CT
This CD was very helpful for our classical ceremony music.
I really like the musicians and the sound.
For the reception I used the CD "New Wedding Traditions Volume I" (from amazon.com) That CD had meaningful songs for our family and friends like "A Song For My Daughter" for my father bride-dance, "A Song For My Son" for the mother-groom dance,"A Wedding Thank You" for our bridal party and "To Our Family and Friends" for everyone.
I am very happy with both of these CDs because they gave me all the special wedding music I needed.
Gloria Easton ... Read more

Amazon.com

As the lead singer and songwriting force behind Soul Coughing, M. Doughty combined a slam poetry, ironic sensibility with jam band-ish, arty Downtown grooves. That group was an apex of smart stoner rock. Since the mid ‘90s Doughty has gone it alone, and his first release for ATO combines two self-released solo recordings that flirt with the sublime. Recorded in a single day in 1996, Skittish nicely replicates his solo performances, minus witty banter. "Real Love/ It’s Only Life" collapses a Mary J. Blige song into a Feelies tune, so of course it’s perfect pop. The 2003 EP Rockity Roll is just as stripped-down as Skittish, but electronic drums and keyboards dominate the mix. Mike has become a beautifully mournful, smart-ass singer-songwriter in the vein of Richard Thompson. Doughty’s voice is a tightly controlled, slightly nasal croon that sounds like he learned to sing by listening to trumpet solos off old bebop records.Rejecting the term "folk" for what he does, Doughty prefers his own phrase, "small rock." Surely, it’s more restrained, slower and less flashy than Soul Coughing. It’s also much better. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Amazon.com

Stephen Collins Foster is sometimes called America's first great songwriter, but you could make the case that he was also the country's first real pop star. Writing songs such as "Camptown Races" and "Oh! Susanna," Foster, a college dropout, was self-destructive, couldn't keep a marriage together, and ended tragically. Living on the Bowery, he gashed his throat in a fatal fall in 1864 at age 37, dying with only 38 cents in his pocket. The idea of a Foster tribute record may seem staid and archaic, particularly as his lesser known tunes are parlor and stylized minstrel songs. But minstrelsy was a lot like rock & roll, and the Pittsburgh native left behind an impressive body of work that draws upon the diverse branches of music brought to America by settlers and slaves from Europe and Africa. Beautiful Dreamer, on which 22 artists celebrate 18 of his compositions, surprises with its breadth of subject matter, tempo, and interpretation, including the use of the glass armonica and santour.Most of all, the album is uncommonly soulful--Mavis Staples's dignified but heartbreaking performance of "Hard Times Come Again No More," David Ball's elegiac "Old Folks at Home (Swanee River)," and the feathery rendition of "Slumber, My Darling" by Alison Krauss, Yo-Yo Ma, Edgar Meyer, and Mark O'Connor resonate in both the heart and the head. If Foster, the pop star, were alive today, he'd likely sit at the piano in shades and gelled-up hair. But he'd be playing these same songs, timeless and achingly poignant. --Alanna Nash ... Read more

Reviews (14)

chillin' out with Jolie Holland
Jolie Holland is an interesting character. Her last album delved into haunting old-country territory. "Escondida," however, pulls in elements of several different genres to create a uniquely "Jolie" sound.

To put the album's aura into musical terms, imagine a voice that lies somewhere between Cat Power and Billie Holliday, and a lyrical setting just off the back porch. There are several songs that break out of this description; "Sascha" reminds me of New York, reminiscent of the narrative stylings of a Dean Martin song. "Old-fashioned Morphine" absolutely effuses the back streets of 1920's Chicago, and "Mad Tom Bedlam" is a scat-inspired, interesting interpretation of an old English folk song.

Definitely worth picking up, it's like buying five or six different albums, as Jolie Holland runs up and down the musical spectrum leaving trails of southern charm behind her.

Good enough for Billy Burroughs, good enough for me
Jolie was a founding (now ex-) member of the Be-Good Tanyas, an all-female collective that made old-time country earn the alt. prefix. In her solo work, Jolie fieldtrips the listener even further back into history, slipping well past the Carter Family to conjure up a depressed Billie Holiday baring her soul for a disinterested crowd in a gloomy 1930s dinner club. Jolie's voice is wonderful, warm and emotionally charged, and her songs effortlessly mix subdued jazz with gothic country and folk. The production is so perfectly natural that it places Ms. Holland right smack dab in my living room - by the end of "Old Fashioned Morphine" I almost expect her to bum some smokes. There's other albums from this year that are more hip, more cutting edge, or more experimental - but greatness doesn't always have to be a cannon shot across the bow of tradition. This is the one album I already know I'll still be listening to in ten - or twenty - years time.

Phrases like a young Louis Armstrong...very cool vocalist!
Sure, the comparisons to Billie Holiday are accurate, but if you go back and listen to the Louis Armstrong of the 20's and 30's, you'll hear a musical style so beautifully mined and refined by both Holiday and Holland. I'll be listening to this one again and again.

Gimme that Old Fashioned Holland
This is a terrific CD, definately one of the best that I have bought in a long time. The style is evocative of Billy Holiday, Norah Jones and...dare I say- Ani DiFranco, all rolled into one package. Jolie Holland has her own ideas about music and how it should sound, though those ideas are clearly influenced by old sources...this is not a complaint. As G Love and Special Sauce takes old school jazz/R&B and reprocesses it for a new generation, so too does Jolie Holland. It comes as it should too, natural and easy, something that you can listen to over and over again, with the songs getting stuck in your head in an amiable, smooth way. From the jazzy 'Old Fashioned Morphine' to the more Patsy Cline-ish 'Amen', this CD has something that almost any fan of old-school jazz and blues music will appreciate.

Bottom Line: a must have for jazz/blues lovers.

Old Soul
From the alluringly grainy photograph on the cover (we'll guess that's Ms. Holland in the picture, but we may be way off), one pegs this young artist as an 'old soul'. The music here confirms it. With songs that seem to emanate from another time and place; from New Orleans, from the Mississippi Delta, from Chicago, they, at first, sound vaguely familiar and then they begin to creep up on you and nestle into your consciousness. But it's that voice-that muted trumpet of a voice-delivered with sensuous, scat-like, hypnotic phrasing, which captures the listener and elevates Holland's music to artistry. ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Super effort from Lynch
I had no idea of what to expect when I watched Comedy Central Presents featuring Stephen Lynch. In hindsight, I realized that what I earned was an addiction. An addiction to a awesome singing comedian. Ever since watching that special, I have been a fan of Lynch. When I received the opportunity to borrow his latest CD from a friend, I took advantage of it.

Having listened to the CD at least a dozen times over in the three or four days I had it, I can say that this is truly a solid album from beginning to end. Every song generates at least a chuckle if not a full-blown laugh.

The biggest laughs for me came from "Superhero" (which is extended quite a bit from the Comedy Central version since Lynch asks fans for superhero suggestions with hilarious results). Yes, Stephen Lynch is offensive, as his song "For The Ladies" makes quite clear. However, there's no denying that he has a certain talent about him. It's enough that he can write very funny material. But the fact that he can sing most of his tunes with the voice of someone you'd expect fronting a rock band, it adds a certain dimension to it.

When it comes to the issue of "Bowling Song (Almighty Malachi, Professional Bowling God)," the truth is that the song is not the funniest thing that Lynch has produced. But the mere fact that he blasts himself for writing the song before and during his playing of the song allows for some laughs. You can understand why Lynch hates it, but if nothing else, it's a rockin' bowling song.

All in all, this is definitely worth a purchase. Yes, you may have heard him perform some of these songs on different radio shows or on Comedy Central specials, but you've never quite heard him like this unless you've seen him in person. Go out and get this now, it's an almost essential album to have if you love to laugh.

My Favorite Comedian!
I bought this cd purely on the basis of two songs I heard him sing on tv. Not only was is great to hear those two songs again, but every single song on this albumn are FAB! Not only are Mr. Lynch's songs extremely funny, they are also well-written and the lyrics are very clever. If he wasn't a comedian, I'm sure he'd have a successful career as a rock star! He has that star quality about him- super good looks, witty sense of humor and he knows how to really rock on the guitar!

I like this cd better than his first release primarily because is was recorded live and he has a wonderful rapport with audiences, an element that was sorely missing from his first CD "A Little Bit Special." (But, don't put that you off buying it because it also is very fun and entertaining!) Not a lot of comics can talk with people in the audience and work the conversation into their routines. Stephen Lynch does this so naturally! Especially in the song "Superhero," where some members of the crowd come up with their own superheros, with some pretty freaky results!

"Talk To Me" is another great song, which has a good beat, great guitar riffs and made me laugh so hard that milk came out my nose! (really) Who else could sing so beautifully about a subject so taboo! Same thing with the song "Grandfather," nothing more sacred than a loved one who leaves you money! (I don't want to say any more without giving anything away!)

I can not find a bad or mediocre song on the albumn, every one will keep you laughing and smiling. Even his self-proclaimed worst song he ever wrote "Bowling Song," which, in my opinion, still brings in the laughs.

I have made all my friends listen to this cd, and every single one of them loved it! If you enjoy stand-up comedy and/or great guitar music, buy this cd. Perfect gift for almost anybody (be warned, he may offend some people. Certainly none of my friends!)

Now all I can ask for is for Stephem Lynch to come tour the UK so I can see him live!!

Laughing Myself Numb
Like a modern, more foul-mouthed Loudon Wainright III, swooping out of the sky comes...Awesome Man? Drug Free Boy? No! It's Stephen Lynch!

Lynch is one of those unique comedians who can make the crassest, most politically incorrect jokes but still be funny. How? He sings them. With such songs as "Down to the Old Pub Instead" and "What If the Guy From Smashing Pumpkins Lost His Car Keys"(a personal favorite), it's hard not to laugh. All that is required is that the listener have a sense of humor about the subjects he approaches and the jokes he makes.

Off he flies, toting his guitar whilst singing about the problems posed by PMS and how he would burn druggies and their paraphanalia(if he were Drug Free Boy, that is!). There is no mistaking. This man is no superhero. He's just a freakin' hilarious comedian on a mission.

Brilliant, better then Bob Saget!
I was first exposed to Stephen Lynch, while watching his Comedy Central performance and found myself cracking up throughout it. When I heard he was releasing cds I immedietly went and bought them. I have to say that this cd is so much better then his first cd "Special." This cd is a taped live performance of his standup and it is easily the best comedy cd I have ever heard. All of the tracks will leave you laughing out of control, making it hard to focus on the road. While Stephen Lynch is a brilliant comedian you will often find yourself laughing at the crowd comments which Lynch rolls with and turns them into great jokes. This cd is great to put in while sitting in traffic or when your angry and tense. Making the mood lite is what Stephen Lynch does, and playing this cd anywhere will do just that. Fans of Stephen Lynch will remember titles like "Superhero" and "Almighty Malachi, Professional Bowling God," but there are a ton of new tracks as well. This cd is exceptional and really is a must for any fan of the genre. Just don't play this cd for your mom!

The funniest CD I've ever heard
I was first exposed to Stephen Lynch on a Comedy Central stand-up special, and he is one of the funniest comedians out there. This CD is awesome; I can think of only one song that didn't have me laughing myself to tears (and he admits in the beginning that it isn't funny). Lynch is a master at pushing the very limits of what is acceptable, and making it funny as hell. I would say, though, that this CD (especially the song "For the Ladies") is not for the prudes. Don't listen to it with your kids, and for God's sake, don't listen to it with your mom! ... Read more

Album Description

As "America's Foremost Commentator On Everything", Black is a weekly political commentator on Comedy Central's "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart", and has starred in four top-rated comedy specials for the network. He's one of the nation's top stand-up comics and has done numerous films and television appearances. Recently, he's been touring constantly to packed theaters on his "Rules Of Enragement" tour, having finished a series of dates with Dave Attell and Mitch Hedberg. This CD catches him live at the Luther Burbank PAC. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Great Show
I went to this show at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, here in Santa Rosa California. When I saw that they had made an album out of it, I immediatly went out and bought it.

Every single bit is a comedic gem here. One of the things I always love about Lewis Black is that he never repeats himself, I have never heard him do the same bit twice. All of the material here was new and fresh, with much of the subject matter having happened within a couple of months. this was by far the best time I ever had watching stand up comedy, and it is a must have for any Lewis Black fan and anyone who jsut wants to laugh.

I Love Lewis, But I Only Like This Album
You gotta love Lewis Black.Its very rare that you see someone who so gets so angry so easily.Not to mention he's one of the absolute funniest comics working today.

With that said, I was a bit disappointed in this album.I'm not saying that it isn't funny, its just that alot of the material here is pulled from his previous 3 albums.I'd say its about 40% old stuff, and 60% new stuff.His new riffs are great.Very funny stuff about mostly politics from his insane point of view.Its a very good cd.I couldn't not recommend it.But it was just disappointing that I had heard so much of it before.

Great Stuff
In this crazy, screwed up political world we are living in today, Lewis Black breathes serenity where there is only chaos. Okay, thats a bit much, but he is on target with his punchlines, and his sense of outrage is well placed.

Lewis Black at his best!
I have to say that Lewis Black never ceases to outdo himself with standup comedy, and this CD only proves my point. In this CD, Lewis Black touches mostly on subjects like the Super Bowl, and Janet Jackson's breast. He does of course touch on many political issues, but this CD seems to be a slightly different approach, which apparently works. Highly reccomended ... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 1999

With the rise of more and more forms of media, the American storytelling tradition has become increasingly fractured. Praise be then for This American Life, a weekly radio anthology of stories that never fail to move even the most casual listener. Lies, Sissies, and Fiascoes purports to be a best-of compendium, but at two discs there's plenty more where this comes from. --Randy Silver ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Some of America's best storytelling
I absolutely love this collection. This American Life is my favorite radio show, and this 2-disk set has some of its best segments. My favorites include the story the about the failed production of Peter Pan, Ira Glass's story of spending time with his ex-girlfriend as "just friends," and the piece on the Apology Line. The only track I don't really like is Christmas Freud - it's not bad, but I don't really get the point of it, and I generally just skip over it when I'm listening to disk 2.

If you're a fan of This American Life, or if you have an interest in the art of storytelling, pick up Lies, Sissies & Fiascoes - it's more than worth the price.

Mostly good stories from NPR's radio show
As a fan of NPR who no longer lives in the US, I jumped all over the chance to buy a best-of compilation of "This American Life". The 2-CD set is split into funny stories on the first disc and serious ones on the second, although I thought both "Hands on a Hard Body" and "Christmas Freud" had some nice funny bits. Also on the second disc are the very chilling pieces "Test" and "Apology Line".

The only segments I did not like in this set, in fact, are the first one on each disc; these happen to be the ones that feature the show's host Ira Glass. I found "Peter Pan" (a piece about a small town drama production that goes awry) to be patronizing and overly long; the remainder of the first disc was very funny. Opening the second disc is "Get Over It!", a segment in which Mr. Glass explores an awkward weekend with an ex-girlfriend for whom he still has feelings. Although it has a good ending, I thought that he was just begging for sympathy with this story, and I felt manipulated. It's admirable in a way that Mr. Glass is willing to showcase his private pain for our entertainment, but not if he's going to make it a pity party.

But otherwise I think the compilation is great and I thank him for creating and hosting the show. I recommend it for anybody who's been a fan of the show (and most of you will probably enjoy Mr. Glass's pieces more than I did).

A few great ones, the rest mediocre
I enjoy listening to T.A.L. whenever I'm able to catch it, which unfortunately isn't very often. I had anticipated that this disc would contain the show's very best segments, but it was a bit of a mixed bag.

For example, "Shooting Dad" by Sarah Vowell is a terrific essay about Sarah's relationship with her gunsmith father. Well-written, funny, sharp and poignant. But compare that with the dreck that follows: "Get Over It!" by host Ira Glass, where he mopes at length about his recent encounter with a former girlfriend. Sarah Vowell once stated in an interview that radio stories are "edited down within an inch of their lives", but Ira's segment -- full of his own deep sighs, his laughter at his own comments, his voice often choked with emotion -- seems to have undergone no editing whatsover. It reminded me of the scene in "Broadcast News" where William Hurt's TV reporter character inserts a shot of himself shedding a tear during an interview. It reeks of "look at me, aren't I so 'real'"; that is, until you realize that it was created with multiple takes.

As for the rest, I enjoyed Sedaris's "Drama Bug" and Bindler's "Hands on a Hard Body", but many of the others struck me as mediocre for one reason or another.

This American Life from PRI is fabulous!
What a fantastic "best of" This American Life CD. It was the first and one of the best. I have been a fan of the program distributed to public radio by PRI, Public Radio International (NOT NPR) for years. This American Life describes such wonderful stories in such a unique way, and creates "driveway moments" for me! It truly is some of the best public radio has to offer and its story telling is up there with ANY medium.

disappointed baby boomer
perhaps I'm too old to appreciate these stories. I was too impatient to hear several of them out to the end, though all I was doing was driving to a destination, without alot on my mind. A few were good, but not good enough to immortalize on a CD. ... Read more

Reviews (173)

Music for strangers to receive great big hugs by
Stephen Lynch is the new and future voice of comedy. And oh what a voice. The man can sing. But what makes Stephen "A Little Bit Special" is his unerring ability to make any moment or situation ripe fodder for his humorous "taint." Yes, I said "taint." From the lovely melody and soft vocal stylings in "Lullaby" that explains exactly "why Mommy left us...", to the ruthless vigor of the chorus of "Altar Boy" this man sells his music. You can sense he enjoys singing his twisted tales as much as you will enjoy hearing them. Every song is good, at worst, and briliant at most. Seriously, how many CD's can you purchase that are 1 - hysterical; 2 - great to listen to; 3 - did I say funny? - 4 extremely "smart funny"; 5 - EVERY SONG IS GOOD? Everyone I have played the CD for (12) has purchased or at least downloaded songs from the web. But please, have a sense of humor, and a couple of hours...you won't want to turn this CD off.

Clever, funny, great music!
I saw a Comedy Central showcase of Stephen Lynch and went right out and ordered it on the web. Once I got it, I laughted my rear end off.

It is a great musical comedy album - and I've owned some great ones in my day. If you like black comedy, you'll love this album.

Afraid of laughing at something that "shouldn't" be laughed at? Then don't buy this CD - it isn't for you.

Not only are the lyrics hysterical, the music (and Stephen's voice) is fantastic. This CD angered my wife, but not because of the lyrics - it was because she finds herself singing the dimented songs over and over because they are so catchy.

I'm just sitting here in California waiting for Stephen to finally get his butt out here for a live show!

Pure Genious
When you hear this man's name, it is reminiscent of such masterful artists as Leonardo Davinci, MichaelAngelo, The Beatles. He is not only a masterful musician, but a top notch role model for the kids. I will leave you with a quote from his utterly scrumptulescent masterpiece entititled "gay".

"but if i were gay i would give you my heart
and if i were gay you'd be my work of art
and if i were gay we would swim in romance
but im not gay, so, get your hands out of my pants."

His music is so real to me, I can taste it, and believe me it tastes delicious. What a wonderful man, nay this is no man, he is one of gods infallible creations.

**I Love This CD**
This CD Is The Funniest CD Since Seinfeld's: I am telling you for the last time. I can't explain everything about this cd because you'll have to listen to it for yourself. What I can say is that Girbil Is the funniest song ever lol listen to the end of the song thats the greatest part of all download it or buy the album for your self to see what I am talking about. I can tell you this Stephen Lynch brings a laugh to your face with Jim Henson is Dead, he sings about how he wants another bite of Ms. Piggy and her tastey pork. Any ways this cd is the funniest so buy it if you dont have it all ready!

Hysterical, just not for the squeamish
If one had to list a fault of Stephen Lynch's unique style of music, it would have to be the lack of universality and the narrower audience he reaches with his ascerbic tunes. Don't get me wrong, I laughed my head off at songs like "Special," "Bitch," "Lullaby," and "Gay." There's just no way this album or even solitary songs could possibly appeal to a broader scope of listeners. Is that always important? No, definitely not, but sometimes it helps to at least throw a bone out there to the masses.

For example, if you are of the mindset that people cannot make jokes about necrophilia, homosexuality, divorce, gerbils, and stippers, this album is definitely not for you. I would avoid it like the plague. For those amongst us that understand a joke is a joke, nothing more, this one should truly belong on your shelves. I have to say even I was offended for one song, and laughed anyways! (It's the hidden track after Walken III; and keep listening for hidden outtakes and Walken IV.)

As for audio quality, the sound is crystal and the mixing was well done. Just shy of a 5-star comedy album. My one true complaint is a lack of intelligence in the jokes and jabs. Definitely a great listen (again, only if you can handle the acidic subject matter) and very very funny. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Accompanied by a resplendently rhythmic score and including an intriguing blend of classical, world, and contemporary western music, Abba Pater is Pope John Paul II's uplifting message to the faithful everywhere. Released in timely celebration of Holy Week and Easter, and in anticipation of the millennial Great Jubilee pilgrimage, this sacred inner expedition of sound explores universal themes of spirituality such as praise, forgiveness, and brotherly love. Abba Pater is the first musical CD ever to feature the most famous man in the world, whose dramatic and moving words delivered on these tracks are culled from archival recordings from the first 20 years of his papacy. In five beautifully expressed languages, the Pope sings, chants, and prays for the healing of humankind, all of which is perhaps best summed up by the words in Psalm 26: "I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (57)

very calming and peaceful
I most highly recommend this Cd. It is very special, the music is very calming and has a meditative feel to it. Abba Pater is a very inspiring CD, exquisitely beautiful. I especially love the tracks No. 4 Abba Pater, No. 7 Dove C'e Amore, C'e Dio and No.9 Un Comandamento Nuovo (Prayer for the World Day of Peace, attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi) This music will open your heart. I love the voice of Pope John Paul II, it is full of love. The CD inlet is excellent, 30 pages with lyrics in several languages, nice photos and beautiful artwork.

There is NOTHING like the voice of a loving father!
Your denomination doesn't matter; I dare you to get this CD, listen to it prayerfully, and tell me God is not with this man. Those of us living at the end of this millennium have truly been blessed with a very Holy leader in Pope John Paul II. This CD is proof.

The CD features a unique blend of world music and the Pope speaking. The instrumentals on "Seek His Face" are particularly moving. The Pope's voice is loving and forgiving. "The Law of the Beatitudes" is also unforgettable (the Pope shares Christ's Beatitudes). Finally, nothing can compare to the Pontiff singing the "Our Father" in "Abba Pater." Your eyes will not stay dry!

My son says, "Listen to his voice. He sounds like a grandpa." A grandpa indeed!!

The Pope's Influence on the World
Abba Pater is THE most incredible, peaceful, musically lush and harmonic sound I have ever heard. Whether you are a believer or not, the sounds of heaven are clear in the voice of the Pope. JPII will celebrate his Silver Jubilee this year, and Abba Pater is a jewel in the crown of his works for this world. Every Catholic household should own this recording, and anyone else wishing for a moment of peace from music should give this most beautiful work a spin. This man's influence will live on through the lives of the youth who have followed his mission, their voices can be heard as well, and you too can be impacted as positively. I highly recommend this item.

A (biased) seminarian loves it!
Here is a multicultural (Catholic) celebration of the Gospel. It has been produced magnificently, mixing soothing music with some upbeat rhythms. Tribal and ancient hymns blend seamlessly with excerpts from papal addresses modern liturgical refrains in many languages.

A Moving Experience - Blessed be our Pope
This recording exceeded all my expectations. No wonder it was #1 on the European charts upon it's release. Being a Catholic and a
musician with a BA in Music Performance, I listened intently to the orchestration and production of this project. The music is International; as is the Pope. It beautifully combines music from all different cultures. It is hard not to get emotional and cry. Very few works combine this much emotion, spiritualism, and beauty. Hearing the voice of the Pope will move you from joy to tears with each individual track. He is a very blessed man in any language. What a privledge to own this work. It has become my favorite. Do not hesitate. Buy this CD now. You will be thankful. ... Read more

Album Description

Voice Lessons To Go! Volume 1Vocalize and Breath

Voice Lessons To Go!is a great way to get going on your singing voice.Whether just beginning or as an addition to the work you have done.Now there is no excuse not to practice and improve because this CD makes it so convenient and easy.

Vocalize and Breath is the first CD of the Voice Lessons To Go! series.It consists of a half hour of vocal warms ups, then fantastic breathing exercises, and finally excellent advice on posture and training.You will be guided through the exercises with vocal examples and piano accompaniment by Ariella Vaccarino an excellent experienced voice teacher and professional singer fromLos Angeles.Ariella's explanations are clear and easy to follow.

Developing your singing voice no longer has to be just for people trying to make a career with their voice, or those with disposable income who can afford private lessons.The weekly price for voice lessons averages $45-150 an hour depending on your city.

Who is this CD for?

Singers, Actors, Dancers-This is an inexpensive way for the struggling artist to get and keep their voices in shape.

Teenagers - Whether you are watching American Idol with pangs of desire to be on there,sing loudly along with your favorite pop stars, are trying out for the school musical, or dreaming of singing at the MET some day.

People who struggling singing- There are those out there who feel, (it could be true or not) that they can't sing and are embarassed when they have to be heard by others.This is an excellent private way to improve your singing with out having to deal with embarassment or shyness.This CD will increase your abilities and confidence.

Adults- Always singing in your car, shower,or doing Karaoke? -but just are not willing or able to shower yourself with private lessons yet. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

As good as they claim to be!
I read an article about these cds in the Beverly Press and bought them right up. They are both great. She explains everything very clearly- all of a sudden I was singing a voice lesson just like the professionals do. I am auditioning for my church choir this fall as a result of my new confidence!

Excellent, well done.
As a choral teacher I was apprehensive to approve these CDs since it is so hard to learn with out a live teacher. But they are great. Ariella Vaccarino knows what she is doing. She keeps the exercises and ranges general enough so that everyone can learn. I really love her second volume. It teaches some excellent musicianship skills.

a budget saver for me!
Excellent, excellent! I have both volumes. I am an actress who needs to sing at auditions every once in a while. I have a good voice naturally and needed a way to keep it in shape. Yey! This saves me so much money in private voice lessons!

I was apprehensive at first....
I thought, yeah, I am going to learn to sing from a CD. Well, a friend bought this this for me, p[artially as a joke because she knows my fear of singing. I didn't think anything of it. Then I was in traffic one day and bored out of my mind. So out I took this from the wrapper and glove compartment. All I have to say is that I am singing now everyday in the car. And I find my self humming all the time. I just bought the second volume, can't wait to get it.

My 14 year old daughter loves this
So my daughter Karen watches American Idol, and begs to go to every musical out there. We have a young broadway singer on our hands. I heard about these CDs off another site a while back and bought both of them for her birthday. She loves them, sings to them all the time. I'm happy to see them on here! ... Read more

Amazon.com

If one's notion of "world music" promises a touch of the exotic and indigenous, often overlooked is the fact that the influence of western pop music has seeped into every corner of the globe, creating a hybrid that's often more than merely the sum of its influences. Theater vet Brightman steps into that pan-cultural hall of mirrors here, wedding her fascination with the music and rhythms of the "forbidden places" (the title's Arabic meaning) of the Middle East to her own oft ethereal vocal charms and rock-solid sense of drama. And if the diva's equally sound crossover sensibilities (and that of longtime producer Frank Peterson) sometimes mire it in familiar world-beat pastiche, Brightman's charmed muse manages some transcendent moments nonetheless. Her musical borrowings (Borodin for the title track; Puccini's *Madame Butterfly* for "It's a Beautiful Day") are as compelling as her choice of collaborators: classical violin star Nigel Kennedy and Iraqi vocalist Kadim Al Sahir add compelling touches to the weary timeliness of"The War is Over." The musical influences range from Europe across the Mediterranean and as far East as the Indian roots of "Bollywood" composer A.R. Rahman's "The Journey Home" and Brightman's own "You Take My Breath Away" to evocative recastings of the emblematic standards "Stranger in Paradise" and Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World," while ex-Killing Joke keyboardist Jaz Coleman provides the savory East-meets-West orchestrations that ensure Brightman's star turns the seamless foundations they deserve. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (163)

TAKE ME TO THE HAREM!
Oh what a wonderful album release! In short words to describe it, brilliant, a masterpiece in the cross-over music and a must for every CD collectors. For the information of everyone, Harem refers to the forbidden places, where nobody can enter or explore the inner beauty of the faraway lands. It does not completely adapting the Arab musical instruments, but touches all the hearts for those who will hear "THE WAR IS OVER." Kadim Al Shahir participation is much appreciated by the arabs colliding with an artist from the West End. A collaboration by great artists like Nigel Kennedy, Ofra Haza, Natasha Atlas and A.Abdul Rahman. Best cuts to keep on listening are: The War is Over, Beautiful, The Journey Home, Free, Arabian Nights and of course, the title track harem. A very marvelous start to appreciate the beauty of this album! A real getaway music from the usual crossover albums she has made - Eden and La Luna. This surely will top previous album La Luna and Encore. I could say, if you have liked Fly, this one will definitely soothes your mind and soul...

A MUST FOR EVERY CD COLLECTOR OF SARAH BRIGHTMAN!

EXCELLENT, But Perhaps Not Sarah In Tip Top Form!
There are 3 Sarah albums that soar above just anything else out there today.(1) LaLuna,(2) Time To Say Goodbye,(3) Eden..It is asking too much for anyone to continue on such a high level, but this album is just about as good as these three! There are some nifty ,toe-tapping neo-disco tunes here which might even be called joyful, especially the first 3! And I admit I first did not really like this CD, but on further playing, it's now among my all-time favorites.On a few tunes, including the title "Harem", Sarah's breathing is very audible, something the sound engineers should have eliminated. (This is my only criticsm, though) An original here "Till the End of Time" is among Sarah's alltime best, and there are many other worthy moments, including new versions of the tried and true "Wonderful World",and "Strangers in Paradise"..If you're new to Sarah, this is surely the bounciest, least solemn album. I give 5-stars, since this is surely among the best of recent releases, though maybe not quite not up to Sarah's very best! But still many great songs, and another illustrious addition to the Sarah catalogue!

Soaring over the New Baghdad
Get on board a magic carpet ride with Sarah. "Harem" introduces us to the new Sarah with her coloratura voice & Arabian beats. This sets the tone for the whole album. Later we hear masterpieces such as "Free", "Beautiful" (Sensual), "It's a Beautiful Day" (Exquisite Madame Butterfly-inspired),. This album takes you through a journey of the soul. It's beginning teases us with the quiet melodic Arabian sounds, then kicks in with the full pulse-pounding beats & descending strings. Sarah then pours out her sensuality with meaningful ballads. After this, she gives herself to me by releasing her voice to its maximum abilities in operatic pieces that will "Take Your Breath Away". Buy this album and soar over Baghdad.

..What A Wonderful World.. What A Wonderful Remix!!!!!!!!!
When I first heard of Sarah's version of What A Wonderful World, it is definately one of the most beautiful song I had ever heard. I hated this song before, but Sarah takes the song and reinvents it to 'now'.. It sounded fresh as if the song was written yesterday!!! Loved it, though the music was sorrowful but it made me think of even though with all this 'war' going on right now, it made me think... "What A Wonderful World!!"

Buy It!!
Amazing music combination, from Classic, Pop, New Age, Chillout!! wow! ... Read more

Album Description

Opening October 15th nationwide, Friday Night Lights (a Universal picture starring Billy Bob Thornton and Tim McGraw, based on the best-selling book of the same name) features an original score by Temporary Residence top-seller Explosions In The Sky!

The film chronicles the entire 1988 season of a high school football team from Odessa, TX (adjacent to Explosions In The Sky’s hometown of Midland, TX). It focuses on the ongoing financial and emotional struggles of a small town that places all of its hopes on the team's chances at winning the state championship.

The Universal soundtrack – scheduled for release October 5 – includes Explosions In The Sky’s score, as well as a new Faith Hill/Tim McGraw duet and a new track by No Doubt's Gwen Stefani. Universal estimates the soundtrack will top one million copies sold by Christmas 2004. It is expected to debut in Billboard’s Top 10.

"Have You Passed Through This Night," from Those Who Tell the Truth Shall Die... is featured in the film's trailer, which began airing in theaters nationwide June 11. The trailer began airing on national television during the Olympic Games. ... Read more

Reviews (47)

soundscape
i have not written many reviews - trying to write only to those albums which 'hit' something in me. explosions debut album did the exact same as this one does. from the beginning of the album the listener is subjected to unothadox sounds coming from instruments of the most commonality. the first track - first brath after coma - reminds me a lot of their last album in style. you can't help but move your body to the riffs created. half way into the song you notice that your foot is lifting up and down, your head is shaking side to side, and your hand patting your stomach trying to follow all of the sounds thrown at you. the second track - the only moment we were together - is slower and different than what you'll hear on those who tell the truth...and while it is different, the listener may venture off of the music a little bit. however, when the third track begins - six days at the bottom of the ocean - it continues the slower building trend of the second but which so much more intensity and emotion falling out of the musical movements. what i love about this track is that it constantly builds and builds but never fully peaks. where with almost all of their songs there is a peak, this one keeps you in the building phrase to only stop at a slow lull to start track four. memorial - the title really tells the mood of this song. the most repetitive of their songs, it makes the listener dig through the music to find the changes and stay ingaged and then at the end, is an explosion of sound rewarding the listener for the first seven minutes of the track. the last track - your hand in mine - a beautiful opener. a smile can not help but creap upon my face as i get two and a half minutes in. its blissful sound coming through my headphones. i can't describe it beyond that.
this whole post-rock movement (for the lack of a better word) is growing. people are getting tired of emotionless, poor lyrical music. albums that can 'hit' something in you come few and far between, i recomend this album as a breath of fresh air. it doens't matter if you start with this album or their debut - neither will disappoint.
i would listen to it straight through the first time - soely concentrating on the music with a good pair of headphones and a clear mind.
enjoy.

Epic
Explosions in the Sky have created a beautiful piece of art. The music is sweeping and monumental. 5 songs span 43 minutes, and when it ends you'll be wishing for more. Passion and melodies pour from the speakers whether the songs are a bare whisper or a loud roar. And every song contains equal parts whisper and roar.

Every song rises and falls from one end of the spectrum to the other; hushed and soothing one minute and loud and rushing the next. The build ups and let downs of the music are incredible, and the entire album flows oh so smoothly. Each song bleeds into the other, but in a good way. Everything doesn't blend together to sound like one giant song.

This album says so much more without lyrics than most bands say in their lifetimes. Every minute of this album is glorious, I found myslef closing my eyes and just drifting away numerous times. But you won't drift to far because there will always be a wall of guitars and drums to keep you from going to far. Whether you enjoy instrumental music or not, give this a try, you may be surprised.

A journey......
ETIS's latest offering "The earth is not a cold dead place" is a magical journey of textural guitars, rolling bass lines, and a drum sound that is reminiscent of a summer storm.....From the opening track "first breath after coma" the sweeping melodies drift across your consciousness, with some exquisite chord voicings the listener is transformed into actually taking that first delicious breath after being in a coma......"Six days at the bottom of the ocean" takes the you on a trip to the ocean floor inside the Russian submarine as the crushing inevitability of the situation "explodes" into complete silence..... "The earth is not a cold dead place" was described in a review as "music that saved my life", I find statements in this ilk patronizing and contemptuous, however, if music can indeed save ones life, and after almost overdosing on some of the gibberish that is recorded today the sublime peregrination that Explosions in the Sky deliver may well be as close as one can get to an adrenaline shot straight to the heart............Worth every penny you have.....

Gets Better All The Time...
BUY IT! This is the universal must-have no matter what your taste in music. Real music created by real musicians, not manufactured garbage ripped off from the last great thing to fatten the wallets of all parties involved. Read the reviews, Listen to clips - there up there, click on them and crank it up! Dont take a chance on some other hit-or-miss record purchase. This stuff is unbelievable!

Excellent.
Some may call Explosions in the Sky Mogwai-Lite, but this album of 5 songs really places the band alongside their post-rock brothers (with Godspeed as well); tinted with optimism, showering with sparkling guitar, this album won't disappoint those who have come to love post-rock. Although slightly repetitive, this album does far more than the latest efforts from Mogwai and GY!BE do - consistently evoke strong emotions, moving the listener in and out of a range of beauty, melancholy, and everything in-between. I'd give it 4.5 stars if I could. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Go pick This CD up! you will Laugh!
Hey ya'll just wanting to let you know about some awesome comedy CD's and DVD's that I just reviewed. "Lord I Apologize" By the one and only Larry the Cable Guy is on sale now. You can also see or hear Larry on the successful Blue Collar Comedy Tour, CD or DVD along with tour mates Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall, and Ron White . Lord I Apologize offers funny adult humor for all hitting on funny incidents about People Liking his Analogies, from the hilarious Larry the Cable Guy song. Laughter is the best medicine so get out there get the Cd and like he says "git -R- Done". I rate "Lord I Apologize" 8 outta 10.

Buy This CD, you'll be laughin' your @$$ off !
Larry is funny right there, I don't care who ya are !
Three big bikers, an' we had tears runnin' down our harry faces.
After you get this CD an' listen, check out the "Blue collar
Comedy Tour DVD or VHS...Order one of those too, Toooo Funny !
Russ (Slash) White, Tullahoma TN.

*yawn*
I went on a road trip recently and purchased about 5 or 6 comedy CD's. This was one of them and this was easily the worst of the lot. (Dave Attell's was the best and Dane Cook's is the funniest I own to date). I am rating it 2 stars because I am hoping to catch the attention of prospective buyers without seeming too extreme.

But it really was a one-star experience. Repetitive without being cleverly so, unsophisticated without guffaws, neither subtle nor over-the-top... I am amazed to find that 29 people before me actually enjoyed this. I wasn't offended, confused, or alienated by the content. I was bored. To give you an idea: If a joke like "I tried smoking mushrooms once but couldn't keep the pizza lit" followed by the non-infectious chuckling of the comedian himself... if hearing a comedian try to commiserate with you on how everybody's sisters just barge into the bathroom and put on makeup while you are taking a dump... If these are your cup of tea, then by all means drink this. You are in for a full CD of this kind of stuff. Very disappointing.

You'll laugh until you cry!
My husband and I have laughed so hard that we get tears in our eyes. His story telling is brilliant and funny. We have listened to it so many times that we will probably have to buy a second copy. Don't drive and listen because you will have to pull to the side of the road because you are laughing so hard. We can't wait and look forward to more from "Larry the Cable Guy".******"Git R Done"!*****

That's funny right there.
Larry kills me. Can't wait to see him live. Just buy this CD. very funny stuff ... Read more