Reviews (21)

WOW 1998 - awesome arrangment of praise&worship 1998 is #1
WOW 1998 is a powerful and a awesome arrangement of praise and worship music. To me it is the best one to date. It was the first one I ever purchased and I've bought them every year since and none has touched me the way that this one has. I lent it to a non believer at work she loved it and she never returned it so I have looked alot of places I;m happy to have found it here.
It's a great way to sample an artist's music before you purchase a whole CD,

Comes highly recommended will definately enhance your relationship and walk with the Lord. You'll learn appreciate him more.

This is the best CD I have every bought.
I have always bought contempory christian music and this is one of the first of my gospel cds. I really like it. It's very upbeat and has a variety of music styles. I highly recommend it to everyone, especially if you do not have any gospel cds and you think Gospel is boring. This is an excellent sampling. Hurry, make sure you get it if it's still available.

Great Inspirational Gospel!
I have to say that this is a truly anointing gospel CD. I still listen to this cd quite often, as well as the other wow gospel series cds that I have collected. The message is given by several contemporary and traditional gospel artists, so there is something on here for everyone to enjoy. This cd is definitely one to add to your gospel collection. I plan to collect all the others in this series that I do not have, because I enjoyed this one so much. I know you will too.

Encouraging
A great album of collected works that holds ones attention thru out both cds.

This is a wonderful CD!
I love this CD. There's a very good variety of music on it. My particular favorites are Beyond the Veil, Speak to My Heart, The Battle is the Lord's, and Total Praise. The CD is very inspirational. When times are not so great, The Battle is the Lord's always reminds me that the Lord is with me. I listen to the entire CD at least once a week. I love it! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Inconsistent, but mostly excellent
I am sure no knowledgeable person would deny how absolutely perfect all these songs are. However, the performances on this album are extremely inconsistent. It will go from an excellent rendition (Waiting for the Girls medley, Sunday, With So Little To Be Sure Of, Sooner or Later, Green Finch, Send in the Clowns, Pretty Lady) to the weird (I never Do Anything Twice), to the bad (Broadway Baby, Our Time). I still have absolutely no idea how they managed to butcher one of the best songs ever written--Good Thing Going--and turn it into smooth jazz elevator music. Why would they give Broadway Baby to someone who sounds like she's 10? That said, Liza Minelli, Glenn Close, Karen Ziemba, Dorothy Laudon and the "Waiting for the Girls" performers are all very good. And ending with Bernadette Peters and "Sunday" ends the set on a absolutley fabulous note.

"Celebration" is not strong enough a word
This review is by Crosley.

I have been a major Sondheim fan for quite some time, and I finally obtained a copy of this album. I was blown away by the excellent cast and phenomenal selection of music. It is obvious how much work went into this production, considering that this is the live recording of a one time show, and it's flawless. The songs cover all of his shows with the exception of "Passion," which was released 3 years after this show. Also, the shows for which he wrote only lyrics are ommited, like West Side Story, Gypsy, etc. Thus, you can find material from A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Anyone can Whistle, Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Pacific Overtures, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Merrily we Roll Along, Sunday in the Park with George, Into the Woods, and Assassins.

There are two striking things about this CD (besides the music and performers themselves). First of all, some of the songs are completely stylistically reworked. The most obvious are "Good Thing Going" and "I Never do Anything Twice." Both are traditionally very ballady with a piano accompaniment, but here they have been redone as jazzy tunes. The result is excellent. Such reworkings demonstrate that Sondheim writes music for virtually any style, and in these cases, across several styles. It's a great example of his variety. The other interesting thing is how many songs have overlapping melodies of songs from different shows. Case in point, "Our Time" and "No one is Alone" are sung seperately by the Harlem Boys Choir and Betty Buckley (the original Grizabella in Webber's atrocious "CATS," although Buckley was excellent) respectively, and then combined. Putting these two songs together offer different meanings to each, and the music is only enhanced. Another example, the trio of "Waiting for the Girls Upstairs," "Love, I Hear," and "Live Alone and Like It" are sung in that order, and then the latter two are combined. Again, the meanings of the songs change, this time in an almost narrative style, and offering different takes on love in the same montage. Lastly (at least for this review, there are more), Dorothy Laudon's (the original Ms. Hannigan in Annie) combination of "Losing my Mind" and "You Could Drive a Person Crazy" is brilliant. Those who are familiar with these songs will wonder how exactly they fit, but trust me, they do. She swtiches back and forth between melodies to create a number that starts poignant and beautiful, and soon moves to become uproariously funny. Both the song reworkings and overlapping melodies of unrelated songs are all for the better.

I recommend this recording to anyone wanting to get better acquainted with some of Sondheim's best work, or those already familiar who want to hear a tour de force of phenomenal music. It has been said that Sondheim is a masterful lyricist (which he is), but lacks real talent for music. This CD is the final proof that such critics are wrong. His music may take a few listenings to get into, contrary to Webber or Wildhorn, but unlike those two, he doesn't cater to the audience. He challenges them to think outside of traditional musical theater in a glorious repertoise of shows that reach for a smarter, more sophisticated form.

A maginificent evening, a magnificent album
There's something to be said for the first concert you ever see at Carnegie Hall. I was fortunate enough to have this be my first. This entire evening was devoted to his genius and the performers did not disappoint.

This wonderful double CD shows off the best and brightest of the musical theatre composer and it is, as one person put it, "an embarassment of riches." With songs from his finest works done in amazing arrangements (listen to that harmony in "We Had a Good Thing Going"!) combined with fabulous performers this is a Sondheim lovers delight.

My favorite song is, without a doubt, Dorothy Louden and her wonderful medley of "Losing My Mind" into "You Could Drive a Person Crazy" followed very closely by the recently departed Madeline Kahn singing "Getting Married Today."

Wonderful double album of a wonderful show
This is a terrific double cd set of the famous celebration at Carnegie Hall in salute to Stephen Sondheim. If you weren't one of the lucky people to be in attendance that night, then this album will make you feel like you were. And the booklet, 52 pages long, is wonderful. It has colour photos of that night plus all the lyrics and a 4 page essay. Very in-depth. And this celebration just focused on the material for which he wrote both the music and the lyrics, which is why you won't find any "West Side Story" and others, featured here. But what you will find is a huge assortment of wonderful music and songs. And just look at the stars who perform them. Anyone who loves Sondheim's music will love this album.

Attention must be paid
This concert remains the epitome of what a tribute show should be... comprehensive (all of Sondheim's musical scores were explored), intriguing (new interpretations of old classics, such as Betty's riff on "I Never Do Anything Twice"), and entertaining (Daisy Eagan's "Broadway Baby" and Dorothy Loudon's turn on "Losing My Mind/You Could Drive a Person Crazy" are hysterical, as is Bill Irwin's stint).

A stunning medley of "Our Time" and "Children Will Listen" by the Boy's Choir of Harlem and Betty Buckley, as well as an exquisite rendition of "Green Finch and Linnet Bird" by Harolyn Blackwell will leave sondheim devotees in tears.

The recording quality is superb, leaving you wrapped up in the magic of a magnificent tribute to Broadway's greatest composer. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Old schoolers, breakers, poppers, no matter, this CD kicks
This CD is really good. The first song is what made me buy this CD in the first place and after listening to the other songs, that's what made me keep it. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Must Have CD!!!
I have the entire Best Of Smooth Jazz Collection. The entire set is great, all you need is some chilled wine!

Great compilation of some of smooth jazz's greatest hits
What a super compilation. The name is actually a bit of a misnomer. A lot of the music here is not merely smooth jazz instrumentals. Most are actually smooth R&B vocals. No matter, this is a great CD. You may not know all the songs by title, however you will recognize them when you hear the CD. Almost worth the price of admission is the inclusion of the Al Jarreau/David Sanborn/Bob James version of "Since I Fell For You". Every song is a solid 10, plus this is a definite "Shut Up and Kiss Me" romantic CD.

great
a good time for romance.just a great gig!

Strongest in the series
From Boney James' flawless rendition of Rufus' "SweetThing"
to George Benson's rousing "On Broadway," thiscollection
(subtitled "Under the Covers," all remakes) is the finest in
Warner Bros. enjoyable Best of Smooth Jazz series. Take 6 gives an
irresistible reading of "Deepest Part of Me," Al Jarreau
croons sweetly over a backdrop by Bob James and David Sanborn on the
jazz standard "Since I Fell for You," and Randy Crawford
masterfully transforms Journey's "Who's Crying Now" into a
jazz/soul classic. Furthermore Michael McDonald gives Carole King's
"Hey Girl" a new lease on life, Mark Whitfield serves up a
smooth instrumental reading of Stevie Wonder's "That Girl,"
and we're treated to Fourplay's excellent take on Marvin Gaye's "After
the Dance," featuring a top-notch vocal by El DeBarge. A shoddy
rendition of the over-done "I Can't Make You Love Me" by
Johnny Hartman wannabe Kevin Mahogany can be forgiven; virtually every
other track is gorgeously executed, breathing fresh new life into
timeless songs.
... Read more

Reviews (7)

worthwhile rarities, but musically dull
I couldn't pass up this album because it has some songs that are hard to find elsewhere, especially this version of "Overture From Tommy," but it's a confused collection. Unlike the first albums of this series that were highly focused on a given year, this one spans from late 1969 (when "Midnight Cowboy" first appeared on the charts) through late 1972 ("The City of New Orleans"). Also, some of the songs are too obscure ("Small Beginnings") and there are no really exciting songs anywhere, which makes it a fairly dull listening experience.

Pool Songs
I'm not a great fan of this type of collection, but this one has one of my all-time favorite tunes on it that can be found nowhere else ("Toast And Marmalade For Tea"), and most of the other tunes take me back to the AM-radio playing at my suburban neighborhood pool what seems like 1000 years ago.

There are, as there always are with these collections, 4 or 5 tunes that are just garbage and would be better off forgotten. Why would anyone listen to "The Assembled Multitude" (whatever that is) stumble through the Overture from Tommy when the Who's version is lightyears better? Why would anyone listen to The New Seekers "I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing," a tune better known for being used in a Coke commercial than anything else? And why, why, WHY would anyone listen to Wayne Newton sing anything at all?

The 70's were very weird, that's why.

By the way, I grew up during this period and listened to the radio every waking hour, and I can say with absolute confidence that I never heard of Flash or their awful, awful song "Small Beginnings" until I bought this CD.

Oops, We Left Out A Few!
After seeing how the format for the first 15 volumes played out, you were probably expecting the likes of the George Baker Selection's "Paloma Blanca," Rhythm Heritage's "Theme From SWAT" and Sweet's "Action" to be featured here; instead, they decided to dedicate this volume (and the next) to tracks they somehow overlooked the first time. Maybe they should have left well enough alone: Delaney & Bonnie's "Never Ending Song Of Love" wasn't all that bad, I suppose, but their other 1971 hit, "Only You Know And I Know," would have been a better fit here; and they also picked the wrong version of "I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing," as the Hillside Singers' rendition contains some lyrics omitted by the New Seekers ("Put your hand in my hand, Let's begin today/With your hand in my hand, help me find a way."). Post-Sputnik babies will find "Daddy Don't You Walk So Fast" to be a distasteful (even if arguably necessary) reminder of the family breakups that scarred so many of them as children, and "City Of New Orleans" includes one line that would be considered "politically incorrect" if the song came out today ("Freightyards full of old black men"). Fortunately, however, three 1970 offerings - "Vehicle," "Ride Captain Ride" and "Midnight Cowboy" - save this collection from being a total disappointment.

Inconsistent, but offers rare lost treasures.
Rhino pulls no punches with their now-infamous collection of 70's tracks that offer some hidden treasures, but also a lot of buried (and best that way) musical corpses. This particular edition ain't all that bad, considering some of the other earlier volumes.

The Blood, Sweat and Tears-inflected "Vehicle" and "Ride Captain Ride" are fine, stand-out tracks that still rock out on various radio stations. However, it is the folk-flavored songs that will pique the most interest. "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing" (before infamously being transformed into a corporate shill for Coca-Cola) is offered up in its earlier, sentimental form; but will I be able to hear it without thinking of Coke? Nah, doubt it!

Other stand-outs include "The City of New Orleans", one of Arlo Guthrie's best songs by far. Also included is a rocker still played on FM classic-rock stations today, "I'd Love to Change the World", which has great acoustic and electric guitar by frontman Alvin Lee, yet lyrically leaves a bad taste in my mouth with its shameless (hopefully tongue-in-cheek?) socialist posturing.

The "Tommy Overture" by The Assembled Multitude is a pleasant listen, but doesn't groove the way The Who did it. Wayne Newton's "Daddy, Don't You Walk So Fast" is just a plain stinker, and should automatically prove to everyone why Wayno is stuck in the home for musically-spent artists, Las Vegas. Robert John's pre-"Sad Eyes" "Lion Sleeps Tonight" doesn't hold a candle to the Tokens' version. Ick!

The rest is pretty much filler, and not really known all that well. But I have to say that "Toast and Marmalade..." and "Never Ending Song of Love" are pretty darned good fillers.

All in all, decent songs, accompanied by only a few clunkers. My biggest gripe (as it is with every volume in the collection) is that the discs aren't longer. Surely, they could have turned a 23-volume set into a good 14- or 15-volume compilation. Ah well, just enjoy hearing these songs again in CD clarity. Just be aware that amongst the diamonds are a few turds.

A one hit wonder smorgasboard
"Have A Nice Day-Volume 16" is one of my two favorite CD's in this 25 volume series from Rhino Records. The majority of the tracks here are good, with "Vehicle" and "Ride Captain Ride" possibly being the best songs here. This collection also contains some fine instrumentals as well. You get "Midnight Cowboy" and "Theme From Tommy". Nonetheless, there are some sleepers, such as "Toast And Marmalade For Tea", "The City Of New Orleans" and "Daddy Don't You Walk So Fast", hich is perhaps the best one in the sleeper category. The track that really turned me on to this CD is "Small Beginnings" by Flash, a group formed by Yes alumni Peter Banks and Tony Kaye. The beginnings of Flash were rather small indeed, for they never had another hit single. "Small Beginnings" did make the US Billboard top 30, and is the progressive-rock masterpiece of this CD. This is the only place you can find this track, so fans of Yes and oldies music should have this title in their collection. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Where's Kind Of A Drag?
I bid on this one and purchased it based on the song listing provided. Kind Of A Drag by The Buckinghams is NOT ON THIS CD no matter what the song listing says! Even the photo of the CD cover does not have it listed. Only is the actual song listing on the sight the one that lists this missing song. Bummer!

American music demands some "Respect" from the British
Clearly by 1967 the U.S. was fighting back against the British Invasion, represented on "Billboard Top Rock 'N' Roll Hits: 1967" by Tommy James and the Shondells. The best cuts on this album are the R&B tracks, which includes not only Aretha Franklin's anthem "Respect," but also "Soul Man" by Sam & Dave and "The Letter" by The Box Tops. However, what kind of a music fan are you if you do not already have at least two of these songs in your music library? Pop harmonies are represented by The Turtles, The Young Rascals and The Association, with the Strawberry Alarm Clock providing a touch of the psychedelic. This album ends by putting the pedal to the metal with the Spencer Davis Group driving hard through "Gimme Some Lovin'." My criteria is always whether a hits collection can give you five new songs you would like to have; unless you have a massive CD collection, this album is not going to have a problem doing that for you. This is one of the best albums in the Billboard series.

it's a happening
all the original songs in stereo
Little bit of soul actually sounds dated for '67 should be like '64
Soul Man,the great screetching sound(the blues brothers did a version of soul man)
Incense and Peppermints-what do the words mean?groovy man,cool psychedelic tune
Gimme Some Lovin'-another 'soul' song i think its steve winwood in the band
I Think We're Alone Now-another tommy james hit, children behave!
Happy Together,the turtles big hit that everyone was singing that year,classic pop style harmonies
Windy i used to think it was wendy for years,but another fine harmony by the association
Groovin' the rascals slow summertime ballad
the Letter- i think the 1st song to have airplane sound effects
Respect hmmm aretha's sock it to me anthem
if you want to hear some songs from '67 this is a good way to know them for the year,they were all popular and had good pop crafted tunes that are easy to listen to ,you still hear them on oldies stations as a regular playlist. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The title might be immodest, but it's accurate. Just about every holiday song parody and comedy sketch you can imagine is jimmied onto this hilarious, sprawling collection. While you'll find a smattering of well-known Christmas wackiness (including "Grandma Got Run over by a Reindeer" and the Singing Dogs' "Jingle Bells"), the Doctor's specialty is unearthing the obscure, such as Wild Man Fischer's weirder-than-weird "I Am a Christmas Tree." You'll never listen to "The 12 Days of Christmas" quite the same way after hearing the spins put on the tale by both Allan Sherman and Bob and Doug McKenzie, and you're likely to check your Christmas cookie for "special ingredients" after hearing Cheech & Chong's "Santa Claus and His Old Lady." --David Sprague ... Read more

Reviews (16)

The perfect Christmas music-comedy CD
Put this on for your unwitting friends next time they are over around Christmas time and you'll all be laughing for quite a while. This is a truly diverse collection of timeless, spoofy Christmas songs to be played just for the fun of it. Some of the tracks are just plain silly, others are just plain weird, and still others offer a humorous social commentary about the commercialism of Christmas. From wonderful, lesser-known comedians to the Chipmunks and Weird Al, it's all here. If you love Christmas and have any kind of sense of humor, get this CD and enjoy!

NOT your average Christmas collection
Dr. Demento's collection of Holiday novelty songs is a weird and wonderful find. Just when it looked like the genre had been trampled to death with the success of "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer," the good Doctor shows us that there are richer (and funnier) X-mas musical parodies to enjoy.

Granted, some of these tracks are inevitable additions on Christmas discs that cover a specific era, or only include songs that were commercial successes: the tracks by the Chipmunks, Spike Jones and Elmo & Patsy are almost as tedious as a Kenny G Holiday collection. Fortunately, there are plenty of lesser-known gems here, like Gayla Peevey's bouncy "I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas" and Tom Lehrer's "Christmas Carol," a witty and sharp commentary on Holiday commercialism.

This collections spans about 40 years, but the selections generally complement each other, rather than sound out of place. The humor of the material here also spans a wide area, from goofy-voiced tunes for kids to sly, insinuating musical parody. Some of the choices are obvious, but others are wonderfully inexplicable, like "I'm A Christmas Tree" and "I Saw DADDY Kissing Santa Claus." Two of the more recent tracks (from Cheech & Chong and Weird Al Yankovic) are classics that appear (to my knowledge) in this collection only.

There are a few lame entries: "Christmas Dragnet" will only appeal to fans of the TV show, and Bob & Doug McKenzie's (of SCTV fame) "12 Days of Christmas" is similarly limited. The "Jingle Bells" cover here is simply annoying, though it's probably appealing to kids and drunks.

Christmas music, as a sub-genre of Pop music, is generally not an area that produces a lot of unique performances. The sentiments and well-wishings of classic songs like "Silent Night" or even "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" tend to be lost when people buy collections for the singer and not the material. Dr. Demento's addled and brilliant collection is a sure-bet for people who are tired of Diva-esque Christmas albums, or who simply refuse to be conventional.

-Mic

Enjoyment for years to come...
I bought this CD for a friend as a Christmas gift. We listened to it and I loved. I will be buy another for myself too. The song "I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas" is a classic and we just love that song. The whole CD is worth it and I know we will enjoy it for years to come.

Cute, but...
Nice collection, but I've heard many of the songs on other albums (which I already have).

"Cheech and Chong's" Lost Christmas Single!!
Greetings to you!

I was very pleased to find that Amazon.com had this CD for sale. I used to listen to Doctor Demento on KMET-94.7-Radio, in Los Angeles, California many, many years ago. All is gone now but not forgotton: KMET is no-more, they changed format, call letters, etc... KMET was a pioeneer in Radio, when it came to "Rock and Roll" music. I listened to them exclusivly for the entire 18 years of their existence. After they were gone, KLOS-Radio was the only thing close enough left to listen to. Too bad that after all that time, a new owner came in and changed everything. Fired all of the DJ's, changed the call-letters, and changed to format to "Easy Listening", (AKA: Elevator Music I call it!). Doctor Demento had his radio program every Sunday night. Later, he took his radio show accross the nation, on a syndicated, shorter version of the same show. I once had the 45-Single Record of "Cheech and Chong's": "Santa Claus and His Old Lady" in my collection. where it went to, I'll never know! They never put this cut on any of their albumns, it was only available on the 45-Single Record. I remember that on the B-Side of the record was "Dave", another classic from Cheech and Chong. Now every Christmas I think about that comedy-cut, and wonder how to get a copy of it. I hear it played on some radio stations, but until now I never have found it on any record, tape or CD. Thank you, thank you, once again for bringing back a fond memory of my past! Note: PS... All of the other comedy-cuts on this Doctor Demento Christmas CD are "Classic-Great Hits" too! I just love it!!

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Mark Motta ... Read more

Reviews (4)

THE GOLDEN AGE OF ROCK & ROLL SERIES
Another great series!!!You can't go wrong with anything on the Ace label.NO MATTER WHAT YOU BUY!!! All songs are the original
cuts that you remember.So if you're a fan of the oldies this series is for you!!! *WARNING* *WARNING* Stay away from:HEY LOOK WHAT I FOUND SERIES!!! This stuff is junk...

Six stars deserved
Ten years ago Ace records, the premier reissue label in the U.K., initiated their "Golden Age of American Rock and Roll" series. The intent behind this new series of compilations was to present a fully-packed CD of early American rock and roll tunes that goes well beyond the usual repackaging of the same hit titles using the best available tape sources along with interesting backround material on the tracks included all at a reasonable price! Is this really possible from a major music company? Ace has proved it unquestionably. The entire series has become the benchmark for all other reissues from labels around the world and has been phenomenally successful in the process. Here in the first volume emphasis is on top-10 hits with a few charting rarities seldom, if ever, found on CD and certainly not of this sound quality. Two of these tracks ("Cindy's Birthday" and "Since I Fell For You") appear in true stereo with the remainder in mono. While some of these songs have surfaced in stereo since, the quality of most of these tracks holds up even today. Completing the package is a twelve-page booklet with backround notes on the tracks presented. An extraordinary production that is essential to any CD collection of pre-British invasion American rock and roll.

An Impeccable Collection of Pre-British Invasion Rock & Roll
ACE Records bills itself as "Kings of the Reissue Market," and after listening to this first volume of their ever-expanding Golden Age of American Rock and Roll Music series (eight volumes so far) it's hard to argue with their claim. They do an impeccable job of covering pre-British Invasion American rock and roll during the years 1954 to 1963. All the more amazing is that ACE is a British label.

All tracks are mastered from "the finest tapes still surviving" and rather than recycle the hits that everyone hears over and over, ACE chooses to focus on the small independent record labels. The first five songs are from the Rust, Tuff, Soma, Coed and Dunes labels--not exactly household names. But these are terrific songs. All but one (the Genies' "Who's That Knocking") made it to the Top 30, and over half went Top Ten. But these are not artists with a long track record of chart success. More than half of these were one-hit wonders, and only five of these acts placed more than two songs in the Top 40. However, all this really means is that these were hugely popular songs, but most of them don't get played on Classic Rock radio stations.

Sure, there are some exceptions--the Kingsmen's garage band classic "Louie Louie" (the only real rock song here), the Penguins' "Earth Angel" and Bobby Day's "Rockin' Robin" (both of which sold over a million copies), but when was the last time you heard Ron Holden's "Love You So" or the Safari's "Image of a Girl" on the radio? These were Top Ten songs. As were "Cindy's Birthday" by Johnny Crawford (the kid actor from "The Rifleman"), "When We Get Married" by the Dreamlovers, and "My True Story" by the Jive Five.

In addition to the excellent song selection, each volume in this series has a 20 page-plus booklet with photos and information on the songs and the artists. Plus you get 30 songs. (That's less than 50 cents a song!) This series is truly a delight. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

A Good Start to a Must-have Series
This is the first of the best Oldies compilation series I have ever seen. The sound is great, only the best sources were used, and the research in the liner notes reflects great dedication on the crew at Ace Records. Seems ironic that a U.K. company does the best job with U.S. music history. You are guaranteed to know at least half of the songs here, the rest will probably be a revelation. For related material, check out the "Teenage Crush" Series on this label, as well as "Chartbusters Usa", taking the music thru the 60s. A good buy, as are all the volumes. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The Lost Ballads of Rock, Now Found
Wow, I am throughly amazed that I finally found the music I've been looking for for years. This had the best of cheap trick, Whitesnake, and old song of Ratt, and many others. You cannot find most of these songs, musicians in stores anymore. It is very few and far between when you can find 1 tape of the group let alone get everyone you want to hear on 1 tape. I think I have fallen in love with Amazon.com. Thanks for helping me find my music Again.

romantic feeling revisited
for any fan who has a romantic soul, the songs on this cd will bring out all the feelings you have been through. from falling in love to losing a love, this cd has it all. i recommend this cd for the different artists and the soul of the music. LOVE LIVE ON!!!

Great music!
I love this CD, granted I wouldn't have included some of the songs that were on here, but for the most part it is a great compilation. Brings back a lot of good memories, I was in high school when hair metal was in.

The best classic rock love ballads ever!!
This CD has all those old rock ballads I've been searching for. The songs are romantic, sweet and moving. I always get "mushy" when I listen to this songs. It makes me wanna sing out loud. I only hope they create a second volume with more great love ballads such as "With or Without You", "When I'm with you", "Heaven" and other great lost songs!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Love It Love It Love It
I am new to Lounge but knew I loved Austin Powers-type music so I took a chance on this one and this is my favorite CD. I need two copies, one for my car and one for the house! Many of the artists weren't familiar to me but it was love at first listen with Ann-Margret's 13 Men (first track), then an elevator-muzak style Girl from Ipanema and the classics Soul Bossa Nova and Mais Que Nada (you'll know it when you hear it). House of Bamboo is so much fun as is Hot Barbeque and a different version of Dave Brubeck's Take Five. It's all great - run, don't walk, to get out your martini glasses. Oh, and last but not least, the inside jacket is jam-packed with career bios of each artist. This is a must-have.

We play this every Thursday during our Martini Thursdays
This CD has it all. It is great. All you have to do is make some martinis, put this CD on. As soon as Ann Margaret starts with "13 Men" it sets the scene.

This it the optimum CD to sip martinis to
Of all the collections of vintage tunes, this is my favourite. Is it because it begins with Miss Ann-Margaret singing about her "Thirteen men"? Maybe. But every song just intensifies the grooviness of this album. Hearing Soul Sauce is bound to make you into a much cooler and hipper individual. "Comin' home baby" is just a gem with that crazy cool Mel singing / talking stern to his baby. It just gets better and better. "I'm not talking" is a jazzy swinger that ends the album nicely. Perfect for semi-formal parties where you want to add a touch of class and show your unique style.

Great bossa nova tunes
This is a selection of tunes any jazz lover or party goer will be able to groove with. With classic tracks like Baby Elephant Walk, this album offers lots easy fun. If you liked the theme song to Austin Powers your in luck, Soul Bossa Nova (the tracks actual name) is just one of the many jivin' boppers you'll find here. A great buy.

Hot Jumpin' Daddys!
This CD is the best! I played it at work and was shocked to see my colleagues starting to swing to these snazzy tunes! This CD would be a great addition to any party. Swing Daddyos Swing! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

I ACTUALLY RATE THIS 4 AND A HALF STARS
I own several cd's of the artists on this album and I think this album is essential for fans of these artists but I honestly beleive this album is worth the price simply for Christopher Williams' version of the Teddy Pendergrass song "come go with me" which is simply superb.

Jodeci fans will be pleased.
For Jodeci fans this cd is a must buy. "Stay" is probobly my favorite song by them of all time, although their live version on this cd doesn't sound all that great. The song "Lately" just blows me away, K-ci's performance is simply awesome. I can't wait until their greatest hits album comes out next month, i hope they have the studio version of "Lately" on it. There are some good performances by other Uptown artists as well on this album, but Jodeci's version of "Lately" stands out as the best. Overall a fine cd.

A Must Buy For Fans
Being a Mary J. Blige fan, I urge all Mary J. Blige fans to buy this CD. It showcases Mary singing 4 songs live. This is probably the first time she's done a live CD. It was nice to hear her live; she sound's great. The "Reminisce" is not the album version; it's very different. And "Sweet Thing" sounds terrific. For Jodeci fans, you'll love it! There's so much of them. This is a must buy.

Excellent CD
This CD is so cool because it was when Jodeci was still around and crazy. "Lately" is such an awesome song and this is the only CD to find it on... I would pay the $ just for that song! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A wide sampling of late 70's top-40
OK, maybe some of these tunes are not destined to be standards thirty years from now, but this volume does cast a broad net over the singles on the top-40 charts during the later 70's. Some one-hit wonders, some teeny-bopper fluff, some more substantial musical works and a few lesser-charting follow-ups show up in this near-the-end volume in the series. And rather than being a detriment, the inclusion of other charting hits by artists who had other more popular tunes is actually a refreshing benefit. Who needs to have the same oft-repeated stuff show up for the umpteenth time on a 70's collection? But this grouping is not of slouches by any means as nearly half of the included tracks were top-10 pop charters. As with other volumes in the series, there are readable trivia for each of the included tunes and while nothing revelatory is evident, the sound quality is respectable with all tracks in stereo. Contrary to what seems the general consensus, this volume does offer collectors of the era's pop music more pluses than minuses and is definitely a worthwhile addition to the series.

Weaker effort
"Super Hits of the '70's - Have A Nice Day Vol. 24" contains an even balance of strong and weak latter '70's Top 40 hits. The CD's strong points are well stated in the tracks "Makin' It" (David Naughton),"Save Your Kisses For Me" (Brotherhood Of Man), the unique and untimely instrumental "Feels So Good" (Chuck Mangione), the Bee Gees penned "Emotion" (Samantha Sang). The strongest of these strong points in this collection is the Andrew Gold smash "Thank You For Being A Friend" (which, of course was later re-recorded by an unknown artist and was used as the theme of the hit '80's sitcom "The Golden Girls"). Let's not forget the Elvis Presley tribute song "The King Is Gone", complete with a well-styled Presley-like vocal, courtesy of Ronnie McDowell. Unfortunately, the weaker tracks noticeably offset the stronger ones. Therefore, Rhino could have put better songs in the place of such horrendous tracks as the Eric Carmen penned "Hey Deanie" (Shaun Cassidy), "Love Fire" (Jigsaw), "Everybody Be Dancin'" (Starbuck) [with these two groups putting out much stronger previous tracks with "Sky High" and "Moonlight Feels Right", respectively, which are also contained in previous volumes in this '70's series] and perhaps the most horrendous track of all, which rears its' ugly head here with "Did You Boogie With Your Baby" (Flash Cadillac & The Continental Kids). "Vol. 24" provides adequate middle ground, as featured in the tracks "Heaven On The 7th Floor" (Paul Nicholas) and in the doo-wop styled "Street Corner Serenade" (Wet Willie). Even though "Vol. 24" is perhaps the most mediocre effort of this 25 volume CD series, you'll find that there are better volumes in this series, hands down. "Vol. 24" is recommended for completists only.

There are better volumes..
but this one isnt all that bad, it has rarities in it. "emotion" by samantha sang is one of them. She vanished after that effort (which was produced by the BeeGees) but what a hit it was. I guess if you are going to soak the money into the complete series, you need this volume.

The worst CD in the series, but still essential
Yes, this CD is the bummer of the series of 25, but "Thank You For Being A Friend" and "Did You Boogie" pull it out of the fire and make it worth buying.

Rhino Loses Steam Here
This is the weakest volume in the 25-volume set. Rhino either lost their enthusiasm for the project on this one or ran out of money to purchase song rights. Several hits from this era would have added weight to this volume, and would have matched the earlier spirit of the project. How about "Reminiscing" by Little River Band? "Children of the Sun" by Billy Thorpe? And, a song that is referred to numerous times in liner notes of previous volumes -- "Baker Street" by Gerry Rafferty? Rhino rallies a bit in Vol. 25, but this one is a stinker. Most of these songs were marginal hits, and you'll understand why when you hear them. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Excellent CD to revive your tv watching memories!
I love this CD! The only thing that kept me from giving it five stars was the conspicuous absence of two of, IMHO, the best tv theme songs of the cable-ready era: the theme from HBO series Dream On (love that jazz piano!) and the theme from Frasier. I would've preferred to hear those instead of some short-lived cable theme songs (i.e., The Brothers Grunt and Liquid Television). At any rate, this is a fun way to revive some of those old childhood memories! Now, at cocktail parties you can impress your colleagues with your rendition of the themes from Where in the World is Carmen San Diego? and The Nanny. Now, if that's not worth it's value, I don't know what is!

Television's Greastest Hits: Cable Ready
This is a great album. I love listening to CDs that have songs from some of my favorite shows. My favorite songs on this CD are: The Simpsons, Roseanne, Seinfeld, Home Improvement, and Tales From The Crypt. Everyone should definitely buy this CD. It's great to listen to because you can still keep in touch with some of your favorite tv shows that are no longer on tv. I love this CD. Buy it!

the dqays and nights of molly dodd
i haven't heard a sound of this theme song whats up your web site is for the birds.

"I am a TV Head, I watch it day and night"

I was kind of hesitant to spend 20 bucks on this CD, but I grew up on a lot of TV and the memories these songs bring back are priceless. The performances are all originals, no cheesy imitations. My faves are the Nickelodeon tunes - 'Clarissa', 'Pete & Pete', 'Ren & Stimpy' - and I would have given the CD 5 stars if they had included at least one version of the 'Roundhouse' theme (the title of my review is an homage to 'Roundhouse'). Another missing theme is from 'Martin' - I mean, they have 'Roc' and 'Fresh Prince', but no 'Martin'? Or En Vogue's "Hangin' with Mr. Cooper"? Come on!

The strings in the 'Sisters' theme still give me chills, "The Nanny Named Fran" always makes me smile and Doc Severinsen's "Georgia on My Mind" (from 'Designing Women') is excellent. When I listen to 'Twin Peaks' though all I can think of is the sketch on 'Saturday Night Live' with Mike Myers talking backwards and Victoria Jackson eating ribbon and spitting out a bow.

All in all, this CD will make you smile when you hear the songs because they will make you think of the shows and what was happening in your life when they were airing.

PETE AND PETE?!?!?!?!
Of all the "Television's Greatest Hits" volumes, this one is my favorite because some of its shows were actually made during my lifetime. However, I am giving this compilation 5 stars for one and only one reason:

It has the theme song from the ADVENTURES OF PETE AND PETE.

Just in case you missed that last part, let me say it again: the theme song from the ADVENTURES OF PETE AND PETE.

No, you're not hallucinating. I really did say the theme song from the ADVENTURES OF PETE AND PETE.

I'm sorry, but any TV-theme compilers who paid attention to that show have my SUPREME respect and admiration. They also included the theme for Clarissa Explains it All, making them even more deserving of my respect. In case you don't know, this is where Melissa Joan Hart got her start - not on Sabrina, which is like a years-dead cow that is somehow still being milked for pennies.

The other eighty thousand or so tracks are also somewhat interesting. Home Improvement! Roseanne! The Simpsons! Etc. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Volume 5. Nice set of arena rock & hard rock ballads.
NOTES: In the early 90's, Priority Records issued several budget priced, short compilations (with only 9 songs apiece) called "80's Greatest Rock Hits."

THE FOLLOWING IS MY REVIEW FOR VOLUME 5: FROM THE HEART.

This particular series takes the power ballad route, taking slow yet rocking ballads from pop/metal to medium rock acts.

1. "When I See You Smile," Bad English -- The John Waite-fronted somewhat hair metal band sings this keyboard drenched, slightly uptempo emotional, happy power ballad about being in love. A very big hit that's no longer recognized. You'd have a be a rapper or an old grump not to love it.

2. "When I'm With You," Sheriff -- Quieter, also happy power ballad about devotion. Even though it has a teeny bit of a soft rock tinge, it's not gutless and will still be loved by hard rock ballad fans.

3. "More Than Words Can Say," Alias -- Freddie Curci, singer of Sheriff, actually formed this new band in 1989/90 and did this very similar sounding tune. The afforementioned has a slightly more classic rock ballad sound to it, whereas this is a bit more late 80's/early 90's pop based, and a little more rocking. Of the two songs, this is narrowly my favorite, but they're both extremely similar.

4. "The Flame," Cheap Trick -- Late 70's power pop/hard rockers had their '88 comeback here, with yet another 'happy in love/devoted' song. A little more pop based and unique, only a dork could not love the accoustic guitar intro, elecric guitar solo and the emotional, catchy verses.

5. "Second Chance," 38 Special -- We take a small adult contemporary turn with the southern arena rockers' biggest hit. The steady, somewhat rock based breakup tune begs for, just that. Don't be put off, it's still very much in style with the metal ballads.

6. "Can't Fight This Feeling," REO Speedwagon -- Poppy arena rockers' yearning, slightly uptempo ballad that I'm sure everyone has heard before. It's generally keyboard laden and kinda soft, the guitar solo makes it rock a bit. Even though it's the classic example of a song you'd laugh at today, it's one of my favorites of all time, no joke.

7. "The Search is Over," Survivor -- Extremely melodic power ballad by the arena rock band. A somewhat forgotten hit about the love you always wanted being right in fromt of you. A perfect cross of styles, fans of soft rock and hair metal alike could love this.

8. "Angel Eyes," Jeff Healey Band -- The most unique tune to deviate from the style. A still somewhat rocking, blues based ballad by the blind guitarist/songwriter.

9. "Sister Christian," -- The big hair tinged pop/arena rock band slows things down a bit. A piano and guitar based ballad about one of the guys' little sisters hanging with dangerous, older guys, from what I've heard.

In general, a nice budget priced collection. Yet, a few things might've helped it. First of all, many collections of this type will 'cheat' a little on their song selection.

An example is they'll include some mid tempo tunes (i.e. Pat Benatar's "Love is a Battlefield") or uptempo songs by more pop based arena rock acts (i.e. Eddie Money, "Take Me Home Tonight"). While some may dislike that and think of it as inconsistent, to me it makes that much better of a mix. Also, every song is a full ballad or very close. Even just one mid tempo tune, or a more rare one would've made this perfect. But, hey, it's pretty close. It's also one of the only volumes of this collection still in print.

Volume 2. Pop & Rockin' Ladies of the early 80's.
THIS REVIEW IS FOR VOLUME 2: LEATHER & LACE.

This particular series focuses on female pop stars and rockers, again with a nice variety and a couple rare songs.

1) "What's Love Got to Do With it," Tina Turner -- Despite how common this classic, calm pop/rock tune is, I still like it.

2) "I Hate Myself For Loving You," Joan Jett -- One of the more rare tunes here. I'm glad it was included over the overplayed but still great 'I Love Rock & Roll.' This is an angsty hard rocker and the title is self explanatory.

3) "We Belong," Pat Benatar -- Though usually rocking, PB slows it down for this 1984 melodic, keyboard heavy pop/rock ballad. Another one of her underappreciated tunes.

4) "We Got the Beat," Go Go's -- Ah, the opening mall shot from 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High' is what comes to mind when I hear this fun, extremely energetic surf rock tinged pop track.

5) "Walk Like an Egyptian," Bangles -- More of a New Wave compilation type song, and total pop. By no means is it bad though. I enjoy the humorous lyrics and the beat.

6) "The Warrior," Scandal -- Another song overdone on compilations, but you know what? I'll never tire of it. It's a great gutsy yet fun poppy hard rock.

7) "Only The Lonely," Motels -- The next ballad of the album is a pretty good one, even if it, too, appears on many of these compilations. A soft rock tinged melodic pop tune that I'll never get sick of.

8) "Bette Davis Eyes," Kim Carnes -- This early 80s tune still has a few remnants of Disco and 70s pop in it. It's good but not great mid tempo tune. Again, it's not exactly uncommon on these type of collections.

9) "Solitaire," Laura Branigan -- The next rare tune is a good one. Instead of 'Gloria' for the millionth time, the dramatic vocalled pop singer gives us an extremely keyboard heavy tune. Starting out as a nice ballad, it explodes into an uptempo rocker near the end (well, a rocker for this kind of singer, at least).

This is actually one of the few volumes of the series I still see regularly, so it's likely still in print and not dead stock. It's a nice collection, but I had to take off one star, just for the fact that 7 out of the 9 songs are easily available elsewhere. Than again, the first place I owned many of them was on this collection. My younger self was glad to get it than.

A Real "Priority" For Power Pop/Ballad Fans
"From The Heart" is a great compilation. I picked it up a few years ago when I was chasing after a particular young lady. Naturally I ended up listening to it alone and pining over her later. From the first to the last song, this album is filled with great power ballads from the 80's. Priority Records did a great job compiling this disc. It gives us the somewhat hard to find "When I'm With You" by Sheriff, who disbanded quickly after the song was released. Who knows, they might have been as big as REO Speedwagon when it comes to love songs. It also gives us "The Flame" which is one of the best Cheap Trick songs ever. Jeff Healey's "Angel Eyes" is a great love song for oafs like myself who don't quite understand why some ladies fall for them. Bad English, REO Speedwagon, Alias, .38 Special, Night Ranger and Survivor round out this album. It's more than worth the price, and it's great for reminiscing about the good ol' days. As a matter of fact, many of these love serenades still work on the ladies.

Get this disc if you loved the power ballads of the eighties. It may not have some of the harder rockers who are known for ballads like Whitesnake and Def Leppard, but it gives you a good selection of great hits that everyone knows and loves. Highly recommended.

Great memories here
There's not a bad song on this disc. Great CD all the way around. It'll make you remember times driving at night on lonely highways when your mind was on that special someone. I fell in love with my copy, so now I'm sending one to my girlfriend at college. This is the kind of CD you'd normally want to burn for somebody special, but they saved you the time! Don't pass this one up!!

The Best 80's compilation cd!!!!!!!!!
This is my all time favorite cd. It takes me back. I had to order a new copy as my old one was stolen by a "friend". This cd got me through many bad times. Would recommend it highly to any "Child of the 80's." Its money well spent. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Pass The Ham, Listen Hard, Laugh Well
Add serious actors (Sebastian Cabot, William Shatner, Jack Webb) performing works of serious writers (Lennon-McCartney, Dylan, Stevie Wonder) and you get this mind-blowing collection of horribly sung, pretentious mush. Cabot's spoken rendition of "It Ain't Me Babe" is hilarious, urban spaceman Shatner's "Mr. Tamborine Man" is a riot; Jack Webb's "Try A Little Tenderness" is the polar opposite of either Otis Redding's or even Three Dog Night's versions.

This collection is only exceeded by "Golden Throats 2," its sequel. That album features a parody cover of the Stones "Satanic Majesties Request," and anti-classics "Hey Jude" (by Bing Crosby), "Dixie Chicken" (by Jack Jones), and "Give Peace a Chance" (by Mitch Miller & The Gang in an unbelievable performance.) Fact is, if any of these performances tried to be this bad recording this material, these albums would be nowhere near the camp classics they are.

Surprisingly not bad!
I got this album primarily because, being a fan of old TV in general and the Original Star Trek in particular, I really wanted to have those tracks that Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner sing (mind you, I'm using the term "sing" loosely here). I had always heard how cheesy/bad Shatner's and Nimoy's tracks were, and I thought it'd be good for a laugh.

And of course, it is most certainly good for a laugh, particularly Eddie Albert's "Blowin' in the Wind" and Jim Nabors's "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" (Nabors's operatic voice was definitely wrong for an easy listening pop song.)

However, to my suprise, as another reviewer of this album has noted, most of the tracks are surprisingly listenable and good. Nimoy may not have the best voice in the world but he at least sings on key (more than can be said for most "modern rock" vocalists today, who whine and scream into a microphone and call it singing). Shatner of course is such a ham that it's enough to make you die laughing; but hey, he puts his heart and soul into it and you have to give him credit for that.

Sebastian Cabot's spoken-word renditions of old Dylan favorites are...well, odd and certainly are not my favorite tracks on the album (kind of bizarre to have Mr. French doing Dylan and there's not much oomph there).

Noel Harrison's "Whiter Shade of Pale" may actually be better than Procul Harum's; and Joel Grey's "White Room" may be better than Cream's version. On the original versions of both of these tracks, I was never able to understand what in the world the original artists were singing about, but with both Harrison and Grey I actually was able to make out what was being said (rock singers tend to mumble a lot and sing only for themselves, but Harrison and Grey both enunciate nicely so you can understand them).

Probably could've done without Mae West's "Twist and Shout," but hey, by the time she did this she was pushing eighty years old, got to at least give her credit for effort. And Andy Griffith's "House of the Rising Sun," while not nearly as good as the Animals' version, is an interesting interpretation.

So the upshot is - it will not only make you laugh, it may make you revisit your opinion of the "definitive versions" of old rock favorites! Buy it.

Sing your fool head off!
This album has become surprisingly influential. It was the first album to feature celebrities singing badly. I remember the first time I heard it; I laughed my head off. It spawned three sequels and several imitations. Hey, it even helped revive William Shatner's career! Of course, Shatner's unforgetable renditions of "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" and "Mr. Tambourine Man" are the highlights here, but there's much more. Shatner's first mate, Leonard Nimoy, who was the most prolific actor/vocalist (five albums!), has two amazing contributions here. Everybody's favorite butler, Sebastian Cabot, has two songs from his spoken word album where he overacts Bob Dylan lyrics. Speaking of overacting Bob Dylan songs, you should here what Eddie "Green Acres" Albert does to "Blowin' in the Wind". Jack Webb recites "Try a Little Tenderness" in his best Joe Friday monotone. I could go on and on, but I will get to the point and say that "this album is hilarious". I highly recommend this album to anyone who likes funny music.

Disturbingly entertaining
This is, simply put, the most disturbing collection of *music* ever collected. You'll laugh the first few times through it, and simultaneously cringe. A few more turns in the CD player, and it becomes sickeningly transcendent. Flee in terror, or click on Buy Now and grab a copy--either response is appropriate. "Golden Throats" is the "Blue Velvet" of trash music.

Not that funny
This is, for better or worse, the album that made Rhino's name. And one is hard pressed to imagine why. Simply put, it's not that funny. While Sebastian Cabot archly blundering over "It Ain't Me, Babe" and Jack Webb reciting "Try a Little Tenderness" like a police report are amusing, most of the other tracks aren't bad enough to be funny. Just because a star has no business making music doesn't mean the end result is a laff riot. Even William Shatner's celebrated mauling of "Mr. Tambourine Man" is merely pretentious heard in its album context. What's more, these misbegotten renderings are mostly from the sixties, before production advances and better technology allowed any no-talent to sound -- well, half-decent. They're as much the victims of bad recording as anything else.
Which brings us to the sound quality. It's obsolete. This CD was obviously derived from analog LP masters, which in turn were probably derived from multiple-generation tapes. One who remembers the Rhino folks using their catalog to complain that Sony Music turned out Simon and Garfunkel CDs from noisy duplicates (not anymore) mightn't be pleased. So too with the running time. Look in the liner booklet for any Rhino album circa 1990 (the age of the dreaded long-box) and you'll see well meaning environmental reminders. Isn't thirty-odd minutes on a CD rather wasteful? (The recent "Silk Stockings" runs seventy-nine minutes.) Yet this album is first cousin of all those Billboard anthologies and the cheater budget albums the label has produced in too-great number for the rack jobbers, only it's full-line. Music fans must love Rhino; but for every "Doo Wop Box" or "Have a Nice Day" or "Gigi" or "Band Wagon" it turns out three or four gimmicks and many times more annoying repackagings. They've become only slightly more careful in recent years. If Rhino and the bosses at Warner Music really want to please their customers they'll ditch this and its sequels for a newly-remastered multi-disc set compiled by Dr. Demento -- from session or first-generation tapes, please. Meantime, if you want funny, buy their multi-disc box of Spike Jones.

(ALL RIGHT, Amazon.com, I WON'T COMMENT on "helpful" ratings. Every time I do you delete the words.) ... Read more

Reviews (9)

unknown 80's music
As a big 80's pop music fan, I must say that I was pleasantly surprised at this compilation. I bought used at a low price. This cd really lets you hear the way music sounded in the 80's. Some titles I wasn't familiar with but they were all good. Could have done without the foreign version of "Mickey." You may even recall hearing some of these songs in 80's movies like "Living in a Box" in "Can't Buy Me Love". Worth picking up for avid 80's fans.

How do you build an 80s compilation?
Like the other four entries in the Living in Oblivion series, this disc is pretty hit and miss. There are some great, now-lost tracks here, ones that I'm happy to have on disc again (Mickey, Get It On, Lay Your Hands On Me, 88 Lines ..., some others). And then there are songs that I never heard in the 80s(and by around 1981 I was listening to a LOT of radio), and I don't think I was missing much.

If I had my way, I'd try to condense the 5 CDs into 3 -- there are enough gems to fill three CDs easily, and about 2 CDs worth of songs that I would just as soon see slip back into oblivion.

More of the hits from the 80's of which I was oblivious
There is certainly something to be said for any collection of songs from the 80's that gives you Katrina and the Waves singing "Walking on Sunshine" along with Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill." The most recognizable track on this one is One Hit Wonder Tony Basil's "Mickey," which you get in English AND in Spanish. There are tracks by Culture Club and Debbie Harry, but my favorite track is "Heart and Soul" by T'Pau. You gotta love any group named after a minor character from the original Star Trek. I think Volume 1 is the better of the first two, but then it is quite clear to me that I was listening to a different radio station in the 80's. Look over the play list and see if there are five or six tracks you would like to add to your collection; if so, then go for this one.

Lotta good stuff, some alternate of the alternate
I bought this CD because it was the only place I've been able to find "88 Lines about 44 Women" by The Nails.

After I bought it, I found there are several tracks here that I really like, such as "Heart and Soul" by T'Pau and "Running Up That Hill" by Kate Bush. I also feel that people like Kate Bush, who continued making CDs -after- the 80s deserved better than the title of the disk "Living in Oblivion".

Then there are the alternate tracks. The version of "Lay Your Hands On Me" by the Thompson Twins is not the one you probably expect, but is rather some alternate mix. I found this disappointing.

I also started wondering about "88 Lines...". I think it might be a marriage proposal, but I'm not certain.

Anyway, this is a good CD but not a perfect one.

Volume 2 probably the best of 5
I have Vol. 1-5 and I personally think #2 is the best. I know it's sappy and lame, but I love The Neverending Story and it always makes me think flying dogs, of course! ... Read more

Amazon.com

When was the last time you heard collard greens being sung about in a Christmas song? Probably never, unless you're a Run DMC fan, or were wise enough to hop on the Very Special Christmas tip. The rappers' contribution to this benefit collection is probably the highlight, although traditional songs covered by now-traditional artists like the Pretenders ("Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas") provide the majority of the material here. Eurythmics turn in a suitably chilly "Winter Wonderland," Stevie Nicks sings a beautifully haunting "Silent Night," and Whitney Houston proves again that she's every woman with "Do You Hear What I Hear"--that is, every woman with a voice strong enough to do the song justice. "Santa Baby," Madonna's contribution, isn't as sultry as it could be, but there's more fun thanks to hell-on-heels, the Pointer Sisters and Bon Jovi. --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (26)

First and still best in the series
Here's the collection that started it all. Proceeds of course go to the Special Olympics, so you get to hear a great set of holiday songs and help out a great cause at the same time.

If you are looking for a rockin' Christmas, you'd be hard-pressed to find holiday music better than U2's remake of the Darlene Love classic "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" or John Mellencamp's "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus." Bob Seger's update of "Little Drummer Boy" is one of the best versions of that oft-recorded classic as well. For poignancy, you get Sting's "Gabriel's Message" and for festivity you get the Pointer Sisters' exalting about "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town." Whitney Houston is at her most soulful on "Do You Hear What I Hear?" while Madonna camps it up Betty Boop style with "Santa Baby." It's a smorgasboard of emotions!

Is the collection perfect? Well, no. Stevie Nicks sounds like a goat on "Silent Night" and Run DMC's "Christmas In Hollis" is too noisy for my tastes (but then again, I don't like rap). Overall, however, it stands (along with the Phil Spector Christmas album) as one of the best Rock and Roll Christmas collections ever.

Christmas Rock
What can I say? I grew up listening to the old guard's Christmas albums (Perry Como, Andy Williams, etc.). A VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS was probably the first "contemporary" Christmas album I'd heard. While I still prefer the retro artists singing my Christmas music, there are some noteworthy efforts on this CD.

I always like to hear the Pointer Sisters sing the opening song, "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town." That's a great one out of the gate because the Pointers sound so excited about Christmas, sounding almost childlike with glee.

Though I'm not much of a Whitney Houston fan, one of my favorite songs on this CD is Houston's soulful version of "Do You Hear What I Hear?" I could have done without Run-DMC's "Christmas in Hollis," but I welcome it on the CD because it helps round out the flavor of the music--from Bruce Springsteen's gritty "Merry Christmas Baby" to Sting's ethereal "Gabriel's Message."

But it is Alison Moyet's haunting rendition of "The Coventry Carol" that makes this CD worth listening to. I had pulled the CD out to listen to on a Christmas road trip several years ago, and when I heard that song--WOW! I like Loreena McKennitt's version (on her CD, A WINTER GARDEN) much better, but it was Moyet's version that got me interested in listening to Christmas music that's off the beaten path.

I recommend this CD to those who want their Christmas with an Eighties touch. I would even recommend it to traditionalists who want a change every once in a while.

wonderful!
This is one of my ALLTIME favorite Christmas cd.s! It has some great artists and wonderful songs! I recommend to anyone who either likes these artists or likes Christmas music to get this one for sure!!

Madonna's "Santa Baby" is the BEST!
I just LOVE Madonna's rendition of "Santa Baby". She is so talented! I like to play it over & over. I think that this is the only CD where her recording of this song is available.

Have Yourself a Very Special Christmas
This was the first of the Very Special Christmas albums, and it's still the best. There are some great performances here, but I have to make special mention of Eurythmics, who turn in the best version of "Winter Wonderland" I have ever heard. Run-D.M.C. contribute the only original song here, "Christmas in Hollis", and it's a terrific one. I also love the songs by the Pointer Sisters, Bruce Springsteen, the Pretenders, John Cougar Mellencamp, U2 and Madonna. The only weak performance here is by Bon Jovi, but they can't all be great. This album would make a fine addition to anyone's Christmas music library. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Old Rhino collection still the best..
on the market at least. Hey Rhino how about a two disc set of Surf instrumentals. While most of the essentials are here there are a few missing. And as some of Rhino's other surf collections demonstrate there are some re-found classics (including the tunes from Pulp Fiction) that now need to be added. Oh well, until some movie soundtrack or commercial sparks the interest of the general public, we geeks will have to wait.l

The Definitive Surf Classic Compilation
This is the definitive surf classic compilation, in my opinion....a sure pleaser. I lucked out by purchasing this as my first surf instrumental album after getting hooked by "Pulp Fiction's" movie soundtrack. After branching out to others, now I realize how good of a collection this is.....a "must-have." No cheesy tracks, no poor choices, all gold! Still playing regularly after several years (unlike several other compilations that didn't quite make it...and now collect dust.) Can't go wrong with this one.

If you only purchase one surf album ever...
... then this is the one to get. Not only does the disc have all of the obvious classics like "Wipeout," but the more obscure tracks from the first explosion of surf music in the '60s. But it's not all reverb guitar cliches here. There's a diversity of style, evident in the 4/4 rock stylings of "Surfer Stomp," the lush orchestration of "The Lonely Surfer" and Dick Dale's penchant for Middle Eastern melodies.
The CD also features a very well-written booklet about the emergence of surf music, providing a great introduction for groms, surf neophytes and even jaded big kahunas. Well worth the five star rating!

This one is tops!
I couldn't have put together a better CD myslef. This has all the surf classics that I have been longing for on one CD. The Pyramids "penetration" and the Lively Ones "surf rider" are truly great! This CD is a must, one of the most listened to in my collection

A solid collection of songs. Buy it now.
This is one of the best collections of surfer rock in my collection. No filler here, just classic surf rock at its best. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A Great Mix of Club Classics
Down in the A before crunk completely took over we had the So So Def Bass All Stars. Songs off their albums would rock until a completely new one came out. THe So So Def Bass All Stars is where some groups and big names of today got their start (Ying Yang Twins, Lil John & Eastside Boyz etc.). The beats were very smooth on this album and straight rode out. R&B songs set to fast paced beats with occasionally some rapping. These songs with incredible chants are easily recognized by folks from the South and even some outside the South. THe songs are straight booty shakin/ freaknik type stuff. Songs such as Thyou (Thigh) (Oooh Lawd she's got that Thyou, that Thyou), or What's Up What's Up with that chant for the chorus, these songs were instantly enjoyable. Or Kootchie Kuters (Look At Dem Girls That Got them Kootchie Kuters on) which became an instant classic or the chilled out Let It Burn. Whichever song, that joint was bumpin and through this point in JD's career he was considered a genius. The magnum opus of this album, however, was My Boo by the Ghost Town DJ's. That was undeniably the southern anthem for 96 as far as the parties were concerned. Everyone in the South knows that song by heart. It's popularity rivaled that of Get Low in 2003. INcredible beat and lyrics. The first So So Def album is a must have for any fan of Southern music. 5 stars.

A truly good time...
truly great album. got drunk and danced to it so many times in college i can't even remember.

ok seriously, when you have choruses, like "...look at dem kootchie kuterz!" or memorable lines like "What'z up What's zup, What's up What'z up What's up {hey!}", you can't go wrong. A good time will be had by all who are blessed enough to listen to this cd.

GOOD BASS
Tiiiiight album, great booty-shakin bass!

Wonderful. Bassalicious.
If this CD doesn't out do all of them, I don't know what does. It's straight mixing for the truest bass fan. Most creative and not straightforward look 'at me bass. It varies it up and it's most def.

Excellent Bass reproduction
Bass music has come so far in the last 10 years and this is just another example of what it has grown into. This album features sub zero bass and extended 30Hz bass tones all the way to tight crisp 600Hz bass tones. To sport a wicked thump orientated system or to just ride around, this album has got what every bass enthusiast craves. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Oldies But Goodies Vol.2
I Think Oldies But Goodies Vol,2 is a classic oldies album with all the atmosphere and wonder that the 50's and 60's embodied . I would recommend this to any that loves the feel and passion that this bygone era was and ever will be. ... Read more