Reviews (6)

Get his newer stuff instead!
I was first turned on to George Carlin by his list of dirty words (although the first one I heard was one that "had gotten a little bit longer"). Following that, I heard Carlin on Campus, What Am I Doing In New Jersey?, and You're All Diseased. I loved them and wanted more of it. However, as I began to dig back into his older body of work, I found disappointment in how soft he was back then.

FM & AM doesn't even begin to approach touchy subjects. Carlin takes no risks here for fear that he might terribly offend someone. No political remarks, nothing lewd or obscene. This album is clean enough to play on children's television, so if you'e looking for the terribly funny dirty old man, be assured that you won't find him here. This was a different man-- untouched by the world and ignorant to the way things really are. Don't waste your money on it--buy his new albums (Complaints and Grievances and Back in Town are nice) and go check out one of live shows...and if you're a conservative, be prepared to get picked on!

Classic George!!!
All the classic early George is here: Shoot, Hippy Dippy Weatherman, The News. It will keep you laughing for days!!!

High Wattage
FM & AM is another classic George Carlin album from the early 70's. The album is broken up into the FM side that contains his new, hippie side and the AM side is a throw back to his earlier comedy roots. Both sets of routines show that Mr. Carlin could be topical and cutting edge in his humor focusing on counterculture issues of the day like use of vulgar language, drugs and sex or could slide into universal routines like mocking radio station DJ's, newscasts & Ed Sullivan. His "11 O'Clock News" bit is an absolute scream as he mocks the typical talking heads of local newscasts who take themselves way more seriously than everyone else does. In "Sex In Commercials:, he skewers the supposed wholesome images of products that use a subliminal message sex to get you buy their stuff. His Ed Sullivan routine is great. FM & AM shows that George Carlin is a comic who can inhabit numerous comedy styles and make us laugh at all of them.

When George Carlin was still a comic...
...instead of an obsessed evengelist of a secular religion built on the freedom to use "four-letter" (not necessarily limited to that length) words. Even the opener, in which he describes losing a Vegas gig for saying "s$%&" onstage "...in a town where the big game is called 'craps'...", is still focused on the humor of that incongruity in Western customs. He also gave a lot of us our first look at his talent for impressions and characterizations (in those days, his previous album "Take-Offs and Put-Ons" was an undermarketed rarity on RCA--I didn't find it until years later). Since this album, Carlin has regressed into the entertainment equivalent of a single-issue political candidate. Frankly, the reason that it's considered wrong to use naughty words wasn't why I bought this album, and by and large, I wasn't disappointed (as witness the number of stars I slapped on this one). Plus, given the number of times "NYPD Blue's" Sipowicz calls a suspect an a--hole on network TV, the issue is kind of dated. Really, Carlin's more recent ranting on how we should have the right to use whatever language we want exhibits about the same level of logic that the people who all but stand there with a bar of soap, poised to wash offenders' mouths out. Meanwhile, those of us stuck in the middle want to tell both sides to get a life. But in this album, and maybe a couple or three after, you don't get polemics--you get humor. Which is a comic's job, right? I miss this incarnation of George Carlin badly.

Pleasing Both Sides
George Carlin's second album was released in 1972, and was recorded after Carlin made his public transformation from clean-cut, suit wearing comedian to the laid back, long-haired hippie who wasn't afraid to tackle things like drugs, sex in commercials, and exactly which word of the Seven Words that got him fired from a gig in Las Vegas. However, Carlin also stays true to his original routine, lengthy monologues while posing as a wacky disc jockey, news anchors, or slimeball game show hosts. Side one (the "FM" side) is the "new" Carlin, with well written and performed material like "Drugs", "Sex in Commercials", "Birth Control", and a bit justifying his long hair and new beard, "The Hair Peace". Side two (the "AM" side) is Carlin reprising some of his earliest routines, like "Son of WINO", the sequel to "Wonderful WINO" from his first album. "Divorce Game" and "Ed Sullivan Self Taught" are also fun. The best cut on the album is "The 11 O'Clock News", with the return of everyone's favorite hippy dippy weatherman Al Sleet, and his dead-on forecasts ("Tonight's forecast...DARK! And continued dark until scattered light in the morning, man..") A must own for Carlin fans, it marks the beginning of the Carlin era during the 70s, one that will always be a defining legacy in stand-up comedy. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

One of George's best CDs!
George made a masterpiece when he made this album. First off it's the only GC album made where it breaks away from the stand-up to do little non-live bits, but while I often am not too thrilled with albums that do that, this one is definately an exception.
George makes some of the greatest bits ever known to man on this album (Interview with Jesus, Book Club, the advertising, etc.), and if anything, this is one album no Carlin fan should be without.

Great CD
Great CD not his best but it is still very funny. Especially the track "A Place for my stuff". If you are a fan of george carlin and don't own this buy it today.

who thinks this CD sucks?
anyone who dosen't like this cd is nuts. i know some folks don't like skecth humor, but hey, without skecth humor, we wouldn't have Saturday night live, The frantics, Mad-Tv, none of that! i like skecth humor. (even tho it's often dumb). buy this cd now, and you'll also get his two classic monolouges, A Place For My Stuff, and from Dr. Demento's 30th anniversary collection, Ice Box Man!

When I was 15...
...This was my favorite comedy tape. I had all of George Carlin's recordings, and still do. At the time I thought this was his funniest, along with "Occupation: Foole."

Many skits mixed in with the standup. I don't know how well it's held up because I haven't listened to it in a long time.

Worst Carlin CD Ever
this is by far the worst carlin cd ever. he foregoes his observational humor which is the funniest around, and attempts to do skit humor. i for one, hate skit humor and was upset almost to the point of being mad that i baught the cd. this is definately the worst carlin out on the market. avoid this one. i would give it a rating of '0' if i could. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Excellent effects library
Just about every sound from the show you could want, although the tricorder sound effect and a high pitched sound when Sulu charged up the phasers are unfortunately missing-- though the latter can be heard in some of the bridge sequence mixes. I'm currently creating an animated Trek fan film, and this is an invaluable resource for putting it all together. Just got the CD from Amazon today, but originally had this on cassette many years ago.

Could I have twenty stars? Please?
This Cd of sound effects is very cool. I bought this two years ago. I've been listening to this ever since I bought it. I'm a major trecky myself. I like this Cd. It deserves twenty stars for the excelent sounds. I like both the original Star Trek and the Next Generation. I highly recommend this to any Star Trek fan of the future.

Fine I guess For Major Trekkies, But Boring For Anyone Else!
I got this Star Trek sound effects CD for free I'm really more of a fan of Star Trek: The Next Generaton and Star Trek: Voyager, and a little bit of Deep Space Nine, not being all that familiar with the original Star Trek TV show from the 60's I really don't care that much for this CD, I find it kind of boring and sound effects are not really my thing. Only buy this CD or give it to someone as a present if either you or they are major Trekkies. I listened to this CD once and when I get the time I'm probably going to bring it to a store that trades used CD'S.

Fun, but mainly for old Trek fans
For old-time Trekkers, this CD is an evocative walk down Memory Lane. The effects are well-mixed for disc, and are quite impressive, considering the time period (there were few synthesizers to help the sound engineers, so they experimented with sped-up and backwards tapes, much like rock groups of the time). Because the sounds are out of context on the CD, they unintentionally sound rather eerie and vacant, somewhat like a Brian Eno ambient recording--a fascinating effect.

"Sixty-nine never to be forgotten sound effects"
If you are a Star Trek fan or love sound effects - this CD is for YOU! It is quite interesting after all these years since 1966, when this series made its debut on the small screens in America, the sounds you hear on this album are unforgettable. You know in an instant what particular sound, whether it be action, adventure or drama the sound effect department is creating for the viewer.

The final result is a unique library of brilliantly futuristic sound effects that were created by some of the best sound editors of that time. On this album are sixty-nine never to be forgotten sounds that made this series entertaining and somewhat believable, which we now find is not at all that impossible. This is not a relaxing listening CD, but the way we remember those sounds from the "Enterprise" during the '60s when the cast and crew were flying high and protecting this vast galaxy of ours.

Total Time: 40:23 on 69 Tracks/ GNP-Crescendo - GNPD 8010 (1988) ... Read more

Reviews (13)

I have the answer!!!
To those of you looking for "That's Not Funny, That's Sick" - I found it. I shared your frustration ("I've also made pizza"), but cdstreet.com came through. They have it in all its glory. It was a little pricey ("they be chargin' us for stamps, they say..."), and looks almost like a home-made job (e.g., no label on the CD), but who cares. Good luck to all -- by the way, buy Gold Turkey, too. It has some classics as well,...

are you cd reissue people listening?
this cd is somewhat comical- but like the others say- it is no where near as laugh-out-loud hysterical as "thats not funny, thats sick", which they failed to include any of here. why rhino or rasor and tie has not grabbed this gem for cd release is beyond me. there was not a slow bit on that whole album and i cant even find a vinyl copy to make a home cd recording! someday...

Like Everyone Else Here, I Sussist On Tins uh Tuna
This album is ok; but like every reviewer here, I want to know
where is "Mr. Rogers", the single greatest comedy sketch on record?

Thats not funny its sick
Where is it. The classic. How about the olympic ice skating?? EggaMuffin. Give it to us, Please.

That's not funny, that's sick....
I concur with those who say this stuff is good but does not rise to the level of "That's not funny, that's sick". When are they going to make this golden oldie available? I've searched everywhere and can not find it. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Can't wait for #3
Schimmel tells jokes about true life things we all live through ourselves,but you can really laugh at his. Dice Clay style you can listen to with your wife, without affending her.I loved his first CD, now his second CD is just as good. His Sea World story & also the car rental ins. bit, Great, can't wait for #3.

I'll never get in the jacuzzi at the gym again...
WHAT IS THAT FOAM, ANYWAY? Schimmel is funny, dirty, truthful, dirty, clever, dirty, twisted, dirty... and sometimes a little too dirty. If you like sex, like hearing about sex, like thinking about sex, or even wondering about sex, Schimmel will do all the thinking for you. Buy this and every other CD and look for his special on HBO -- this is not your typical comic, Schimmel sees everyday "acts" [?] in a whole new way... Just don't play it for your parents, your nice religious neighbor, or your kids' teachers. FUNNY!

Great Album Marred By Ending
Typically hysterical stand-up gets marred by novelty songs at the end. He begins the bit(s) at the end of the album by talking about how he's being pressured to release a novelty song to promote, but ends up spending way too much time with his take on them, including a full length song at the end. The crowd eats it up, but as per irony, that's the point - but it never should have been put on the album. Absolutely worth the purchase price for the first two-thirds of the album, though.

Off The Hook!!!
This cd was just as I expected. Never a dull moment. Schimmel keeps you in stiches continually. He is very graphic, so if you are not into that style of comedy. I suggest you not buy it. I was very satisfied with this cd and do recommend it to all those who enjoy a good hard laugh. ...

Angry but at times predictable
Schimmel is funny, but not as loaded with "classic" lines that you instantly memorize - you find these in superb Denis Leary's acts.

Sometimes it feels that he could go easier on four-letter words; excessive usage lessens the effect and blunts the sharp edge. This is a shame.

The title track - cheerful, silly and hilarious - is probably the highlight. I catch myself humming it every now and then. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Great, Rare Compilation
I really enjoy listening to this album. The vocal arrangements are top notch. The addition of African drums and electric bass to "Wade in the Water" and "Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel" is inspiring. The contemporary gospel sounds of "You May Run On" and "Rocka My Soul" end the album on an energetic, positive note. Where this album really shines is in its honest and brilliant acapella arrangements. The only bad points are 1)that the fun ends to soon, and 2) the excrutiatingly long (but informative) interview with Judith Jamison at the end.

Otherworldly and electrifying
This CD is one of the most ecstatic experiences I've ever had with a work of art. Billy Porter in particular is magnificent.

Excellent interpretation of African American genre
I was very pleased and excited about this work. After seeing the dance company perform "Revelations", I found it powerful and cathardic. The music is now apart of my collection and I shall include it in the art of pedadogy. This work is very important to understanding the history of the African American progression in America with Negro Spirituals being parallel. Not enough can be said about this work. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Wish there was more
I was given six of her LP's and wish they were available on CD.
Her humour is timeless and such Great fun.
Hope you can get her other LP's on CD It's what comedy SHOULD be. Funny not Foul mouthed.

A Little Female Trouble!
Rusty Warren is the comic whose albums your parents hid in the closet and forbade you to touch--and you obeyed, unless like me you merely waited until they left the house and then dropped them on the stereo. I laughed until I cried, and receiving this CD was very much like meeting a very dear friend you haven't seen in much too long a time.

By modern standards, Warren's act is fairly mild--but in the 1950s and 1960s it was more than enough to blow the doors off the nightclub scene and get her banned from conservative communities, not to mention radio and television. And like the legendary Sophie Tucker and Mae West, Warren relies more on the lost art of sexual innuendo than on open expletive. She also has tremendous charisma, and in these two recordings you can feel the power of her spell.

Both offerings on this CD are from among her earlier recordings. The sound quality of KNOCKERS UP is a bit rough, and the tempo of Warren's performance on SONGS FOR SINNERS is perhaps a shade, er, laid back--but no matter how you look at it, this is still the Queen of Classic Blue Comedy working near the top of her, er, form. Are you ready for the ballad of Red River Sally? How about a rousing rendition of Roll Me Over, Lay Me Down, Do It Again ("now all the virgins sing the chorus!")? Or one of the naughtiest versions of Frankie and Johnny you've ever heard?

Yes, it's a trip down memory lane to a simpler time. But it's a good trip, and if you enjoy this brand of 1950s comedy you won't regret the time or money spent. "Just a little female trouble, dear"--from one of comedy's great but now sadly neglected treasures. Open up the bar, invite a few friends in, and put Rusty on the stereo. You won't regret it.

--GFT (Amazon.com Reviewer)--

Another "one of a kind" which we love to hear
Rusty, you wanted to do your act on TV. We are ready for you. At the time you did your album, we listened to it on the fronts in Vietnam, at home, and away from home. We laughed at ourselves as well as your great presentations of comic and song which in those days were almost strictly taboo. 30 years later, I am buying the album. You have stayed in our hearts and lives for that long with only nice things to say about you.

Grab your sesame seeds!!!
Rusty is the funniest dame around!!! We listen to her on at least a weekly basis & she just keeps getting funnier!!! Rusty is so bawdy she will brings tears to your eyes & a massive pain to your side! (This coming from a couple of young hotrod/monster loving/surf & rockabilly - type tattoo weirdos should tell you that the generation gap thing doesn't apply here... she is just the funniest)!!! Do yourself a favor & pick up anything that you find on her... and remember ladies, keep your knockers up!!! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

At His Best~Bill Cosby
This was Bill Cosby's best hit yet! I loved "Froofie The Dog" so much, I cried(literally)!It's so funny that if the whole world was listening to it,someone in a galaxy far,far away would hear all of the laghing. I have alot of Bill Cosby albums,but "Bill Cosby At His Best" is the best of all. I also recommend "Bill Cosby Himself" and "To Russell,My Brother,Whom I Slept With". If you want to actually see Bill Cosby, buy the movie "Bill Cosby Himself",which is more extended than the album. The movie is funnier than the album.

50/50 Rating
I got this yesterday with excitement because it's filled with tracks from Bill's various albums he released on the UNI label but I was disappointed because a few of the tracks were shortened too much (example: Track And Field). Terrible editing on a few tracks and the Left Out track are the downsides. Tracks like My Brother, Russel and a few others from the UNI albums are the upsides.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA... oh in case you didn't notice it this album is funny, I'm 14 and I even loved it, The track and field track is hillarious this cd does not get old.. BUY IT

Poor Package
This is not a good collection of Bill Cosby's best. Such a compilation is pointless for a standup comedian anyway, especially one who's original albums were so fluent & consistant. Here, you get only fractions of the classic bits, and out of context they loose much of their charm.

His classic albums are a MUCH better idea. This is a disjointed listen with no flow to it.

Three Cheers For Bill Cosby - RAH! RAH!! RAH!!!
If you've ever seen or heard a Bill Cosby production, whether it be at a comedy club, on television, from listening to one of his classic comedy albums, or as a television commercial spokesperson for various products, then you'll realize this is a man of many talents. It is due to the mainstay of Mr. Cosby's four decades in the entertainment business, which define his enormous talents and success as an entertainer. Listening to a Bill Cosby comedy album is not only a masterful comical work in progress, but is also an educational experience in and of itself. In "Bill Cosby - At His Best", the master himself will teach you how to say no to persnickety, stubborn children (Froofie The Dog), while tickling your funny bone at the same time. Want to learn how to play "Football" the Cosby way? You can learn all about the sport in Professor Cosby's "COS ELEM FOOTBALL 101". Mr. Cosby will not only provide you with his insight on how to play the sport like a professional klutz, he'll also teach you about how to take losing a game with a sense of dignity, as well as with a sense of humor in a way that only Mr. Cosby can deliver! Why is Mr. Cosby qualified to teach this course, you ask? Because he posesses a Doctorate Degree in Education, that's why! Talk about various family members being a handful, Mr. Cosby will give it to you straight (with a twist of that ol' Cosby humor, of course!), as he lets the chips fall where they may in "My Brother Russell". The "Do's & Dont's" on how to spend a worthwhile vacation in "The Gambling Capitol of America" with your significant other is well laid out as your personal guide to "(In Las Vegas) Be Good To Your Wives". If you're just dying to know "How Fat Albert Got A Hernia", well, you'll just have to find out for yourself by listening to this priceless gem. Personally, I would not recommend beating your wife (for those of you who are married)! So, before all you frustrated guys out there get all bent out of shape, I would advise listening to "Why Beat Your Wife". The comical atmosphere will absorb those tense feelings completely out of your body! "Grover Henson Feels Forgotten" seems out of place on a comedy album, due to its musical backdrop set to Bill's narration of a letter reading, as written about and as a dedication to Grover Henson (who else?), who is stationed in the military. Grover Henson could also be either an anonymous character, or possibly one of Mr. Cosby's friends whom Bill knew from his childhood. I did not, however, find one speck of comedy in this particular dialogue, which explains why it belongs on a Top 40 countdown show and not on a comedy album. Getting back to the comedy, "The Cos" will examine the ups and downs of married life in "Bill's Marriage", so just sit back, take your shoes off, and enjoy. What? You still haven't quite gotten your fill from that "Football" class? Well, don't despair, sports minded fan(s). Professor Cosby is teaching a class in Track & Field, titled "COS ELEM TRACK & FIELD 102", aka "Track And Field High Jump". Here, you'll learn the basics of this sport and more, as well as have a jollingly, hilariously good time while doing so. Last, but not least, I'd like to pay a humble tribute to BC's son, the late Ennis Cosby, as he's the person to whom Bill's speaking about in "Ennis' Toilet". You'll probably cry as you hear this piece. Ennis wouldn't want you to be sad, so please have a chuckle or two as you listen to "Ennis' Toilet", as well as the rest of the skits featured in this comedy CD materpiece in Ennis's memory. Thank you, very much. IN LOVING MEMORY...ENNIS COSBY (1970-1997). ... Read more

Amazon.com

Even though he's suffered through some bad scripts and an ill-advised singing career and been eclipsed by a younger generation of black comics (like Martin Lawrence and Chris Rock), Eddie Murphy remains one of the most important--and funniest--standups to come along since Richard Pryor. This album reminds you why. At his best, Murphy is wonderfully inventive and accessible. There are some excellent old bits here: "Drinking Fathers," "Ice Cream Man"--plus some rare, unreleased routines from Murphy's New York nightclub days. This CD is an excellent addition to any collection; Murphy's impression of James Brown is worth the price alone, as are lines like, "What the f*** does 'gooney-goo-goo' mean?... Gus, your wife is a Bigfoot!" -- Michael Gerber ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Starts great, ends mysteriously
The first 6 or 7 tracks of this CD are classic Eddie Murphy that all of us fans have come to know and love. BBQ, Drunk Fathers, and the Ice Cream Man are all tracks that do not disappoint. An absolutely side splitting impression of Larry Homes is also a wonderuful addition. Unfortunately, the last 5 or 6 tracks on the CD are very hard to understand, as if they were recorded from the back of a large and noisy club. I cannot make anything out on them, so I havent listened to all of them. It supprises me they realeased the tracks, because they are impossible to understand. All in all, this is a great CD, but should have been produced better.

HILARIOUS!!!!
I LOVE THIS CD. IT IS FUNNY. I LOVE EDDIE MURPHY; HE IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE COMEDIANS OF ALL TIME. I ENJOY HIS COMEDY AND I ENJOY HIM. EDDDIE HAS SOME OF SIGNATURE JOKES ON HERE: ICE CREAM MAN, FAGGOTS, HIT BY A CAR, AND MANY MORE BUY THIS CD IF YOU ENJOYED EDDIE IN THE 80'S THEN YOU WOULD DEFINITELY LOVE THIS CD!!!! BUY IT !!!

Still Funny yet Lacking in Quantity
I grew up wanting to "Party All The Time" and chasing "The Ice Cream Man". I had the complete version of "Bar-B-Que" and "Drunk Fathers" memorized. But, tell me this....where is my "Shoe Throwin' Mother"? That is a classic Murphy bit and it was greatly missed on this CD. This CD could have been better...but I still got my kicks!!! Eddie Murphy.....wierd to see him in Daddy Daycare and Klumps and think of how he used to be. I give the CD about a 8 out of 10.

A Great Collection But Buy the Other Albums as Well
This is a great collection of previously unreleased tracks as well as some tracks from his other two albums Comedian and Self Titled. There's twelve new (well still recorded in the 80's) tracks and six from the other albums. In my opinion the funniest tracks are still on the other albums. The Mr T jokes you have probably heard of are not on this album. The hilarious tracks Talking Cars, Myths/A Little Chinese and Black Movie Theatres are also absent and should really be on a greatest hits Eddie Murphy album.

Still this album is worthwhile listening to but I think you will definitely buy the other two once you have this. If you are buying this for your kids because they love donkey from Shrek or the Nutty Professor or something just be aware it has a fair bit of swearing on it. I prefer the other albums (they also have better sound quality) but you won't really go wrong with this.

Still sounds fresh - after all these years
If you have not been aware of Eddie Murphy's comic talent, this album will be a big revelantion; if you know him as a comedian, you will enjoy this disc immensely.

Other reviewers rightly noted that the album suffers from a poor recording quality. That is very true - however, after you listen to it over and over again, you will stop noticing this. You will appreciate fine and precise delivery (and in this sense, Murphy is with the best of them, comparable with Seinfield's incredibly polished act).

Probably, by today's standards, you will find Eddie Murphie quite mellow compared to the no-boundaries giants of African-American comedy like Chris Rock: other comedians pushed the boundaries of what is acceptable and how offensive you can be very, very far. Apart from off four-letter words, this is practically the stuff for family listening. Well, maybe not, but it still very fine comedy.

The "Drinking Fathers" and "Barbecue" tracks are probably the best on this CD.

It is a shame that they could not put the whole shown on a disk - shows taped live and reproduced end-to-end always sound better than "Greatest Hits", but what the heck, we have to enjoy what we have. This CD is worth every penny. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Good, clean country humor
Jerry Clower is the funniest man to ever live, in my opinion, and I really regret the fact that he passed away just a couple of months before I actually had the chance to see him live back in 1998. As a proud Southerner myself, I love his thoroughly Southern humor; the man was country, and he was proud of it. He was also a deeply religious man who expressed his beliefs in a poignant yet quiet way, usually ending his albums with some words of advice on how to be a better person. Clower Power, released in 1973, was Jerry Clower's third album. Clower was at his best when telling longer stories such as Knock 'Em Out, John or Marcel's Talking Chain Saw, but there are some real gems among the twenty short, hilarious stories on this album. Of particular interest is How to Back Into Show Business, in which he describes his transformation from fertilizer peddler to famous country comedian. There are plenty of stories about growing up in rural Mississippi and vignettes of the unforgettable Ledbetter family, particularly Uncle Versey, Marcel (of chain saw fame), and Clovis (who wanted to be a log truck instead of a little boy). Jerry Clower was just naturally funny; he could have read the obituaries and had a multitude of otherwise serious men and women rolling in the aisles with laughter. He is the epitome of family entertainment and the perfect instructor on the art of enjoying life to its fullest no matter what your situation.

Some very funny stuff (and some filler)
I agree with the reviewer who says that this is not as funny as "Greatest Hits." That said, however, there is some very funny stuff here that is NOT on "Greatest Hits." Buy this one at the bargain basement price and transfer the gems to your own "greatest hits" tape or CD. The sound quality on "Clower Power" is fine and some of the material is absolutely hilarious.

Get what you pay for
This cd is not as funny as his other ones. I recommend "Greatest Hits" with many of his more famous stories about marcel ledbetter, coon hunting,etc.

Jerry =Funny
This was Jerry's best ever. I could not stop laughing through out the album. His "backwoods" tales remind me of my grandfather's stories of the rural south. I highly recommend this work! ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Sure Eric's just one man, but he's a [very] talented one
You shouldn't look at this as a failure because Eric is only 1/6 of Monty Python, in fact it should be veiwed as a success because of that. I've always loved Eric more than the other Pythons, so I didn't mind the lack of the others here. Sure, a few songs felt lonely, but most were awesome. Eric is a very talented and wonderful man, who's heart is in the right place. I love this CD, and if you've ever enjoyed any Python song, you will too. Lets face it- who else did he need for the songs? He certainly carried The Lumberjack Song well without Michael. He didn't need John's awful out of tune voice (Sorry, but John is a HORRID singer) for the Eric the Half a Bee song. He was great. Buy this CD if you love Monty Python or Eric Idle. Don't buy this if you're a die-hard Palin fan because you will be dissappointed. He does not show up and make a guest appearence, but to all the right thinking fans, it shouldn't matter. Of course this isn't as good as the stuff the guys did together, but with Graham gone we'll never see anything that good again, so just sit back and enjoy yourself.

It's Alive!!
as a dedicated Eric Idle Estrogen Brigade I felt I had to get this CD!!my love of Eric accompinies a love of Monty Python so naturally I loved this CD.it is part singing and part stand up comedy, a great mix when you throw a Python/Rutle in.hooray!!all the best songs with Eric who has proved he's not dead yet.all the humour, satire and down right silliness of the old days.

What's the Point?
Imagine, if you will, that five of the six Pythons, save Eric Idle, havepassed on.Ceased to be.Gone to meet their maker. Now, imagine, Erictrying to keep the group going -- by himself.Also imagine, if you will,the only Rutle not to perform on the Rutles LP carrying on without any ofthe actual playing Rutles. That in a nutshell is the feeling one getslistening to this CD.

But the other Pythons (save Graham Chapman) arestill alive and producing.Check out their recent BBC special if you canand also check out Neil Innes' recent solo compilation, "Recollections1" (available through neilinnes.org).

As for this album, this is notan album for listening to.It's an album for laying down and avoiding.

He did the best he could
I love Monty Python. I saw Eric's show live in Boston, and I must admit he did a great job with it. However, Monty Python loses something when it's remade... I have seen all their "original" work and nothingthey've done with their material since has lived up to their movies or theflying circus. Eric did well, but he's only one man- he could never on hisown live up to what all six have done together.

Eric Idle has done it again!
Allright, I have just recentely got into Monty Python and I am totally hooked!He is my favorite and when I heard this CD was out and ran to buy it. I mean this was the first (most likely not the last! ) MontyPython CD that I have bought. I love how it is done live and you kind ofget the feeling that you are actually there! This CD has the words in itso you can sing along, but it doesn't have the words to all of them......It has some classic favs like the Money Song, Every Sperm is Scared, I likeChinese, and the infamouse Lumberjack Song. The Lumberjack Song was aspontaneous encore which they had rehearsed for three days. He was like"I never wanted to be a musician.....I wanted to be aLumberjack!" and then everyone started cheering and it made mesmile!So if you are a Monty Python fan, this is the CD for you!So gobuy it you little buggers! ... Read more

Album Description

Silverstein orginally gained fame as a cartoonist and satirist for Playboy magazine. His satirical songs first found a national audience with Johnny Cash's 'A Boy Called Sue', Loretta Lynn's 'Ones On The Way' and Dr. Hook's interpretations of several of Silverstein's best, including 'Sylvia's Mother' and 'Cover Of The Rolling Stone'. Silverstein's own recordings have earned him a cult following. This album is a 1973 release with 3 added bonus tracks, 'A Front Row Seat To Hear Ole Johnny Sing', '26 Second Song' & 'Everybody's MAkin' It Big But Me'. Standard jewel case. 1999 release. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Best. Lyric. Ever.
Best. Lyric. Ever: "I spend each dime I can afford. I swear it's gonna win an academy award. I saw Polly in a porny with a pony, and the pony seemed a little bored."

cat box, duct tape, and obscenities galore
once upon a time i was at a new years party at a wonderfully intriguing place called the "cat box." this was essentially a rented equivalent of a "squat house" in west philadelphia, inhabited by some of the finest philly punks circa 1990's (most notably, this was the house that kit and his band, wally, built). the "cat box" had its name for a reason... it smelled of one giant litter box! nonetheless, these guys knew the ins and outs of parties. punk shows in the basement (they actually booked shows in their basement, with touring acts et al), dj's on the first floor and drugs (any kind you could ever dream of) on the 2nd and 3rd floor, and of course kegs were accessible on all floors! every party was memorable in its own way. this particular new years eve party (and a certain halloween party where i dressed as laura palmer wrapped in plastic) had to be the crème de la crème. it was the first time i ever tried mesc, rodney and joe from the dead milkmen were there, this amazing punk band (i forget their name) from knoxville played in the basement (not to mention wally, and maybe even the 'flap), and i heard shel silverstein's freakin' at the freakers ball for the first time (and don't forget the first item i mentioned doing for the first time, that's very important). it was just four of us sitting in one of the upstairs bedrooms, smoking up, and the "host" was flipping through his records... he pulled out shel, and everyone immediately thought of his children's books, and we all made a frustrated sigh (like, "not that. we're all messed up on drugs, don't put a children's record on"). he wasn't giving up, he opened the gatefold, and to our surprise... well, why don't i leave it to your OWN surprise. let me just say, that in unison we all agreed, this would be the record we would listen to. and let me also just say, "stacy brown got two" had us all in tears, especially by the final verse: "why they climbing up the wall? just to get to stacy. young ones run and old ones crawl. he drives them crazy. he got two and that's a fact. but no one knows where the other one's at. on his elbow, on his knee, or underneath his hat?" i won't even take the time to explain what he's got two of, let's just say, "his girlfriends they all wake up smilin' every morn." this records got all the pot smoking, pornographic hits you can ask for... "i got stoned and i missed it," "polly in a porny," "don't give a dose to the one you love most." its all here. the best part about this whole purchase is the "columbia records radio station service suggested cuts label at the bottom of the back cover," usually columbia would check off what songs they recommended for radio play, you can guess how many of these songs are checked off. well, to end my story, the host of this little get together, made a dub of this record for my girlfriend. when we sobered up the next morning, she found the tape and wrapped it securely in duct tape, so that it could never be re-opened again. maybe that's why we broke up. so last new years, in memorial of one of my best new years eves, i found freakers ball. can't say it was exactly the same as the first time, but it did crack up my friend, margaret (but considering it was 3am, well, anything could have had that effect). margaret then earned the right to own her very own copy (which i found at the fall 2002 austin record convention), which was my christmas gift to her this year. talk about spreading good cheer...

My favorite album from the 70s
In 1973, I was in High School and my girlfriend gave me a copy of the original album. She and the album taught me more about sex than I had ever dreamed there could be. The title track alone had me looking up "necrophilia" and a dozen other deviations.

This album has been a cherished part of my collection now for almost 30 years. Not just because of the memories, but because the music is so damn good. Shel Silverstein, Dr. Hook and the others play some crankin' tunes, and it's impossible to feel down when you sing along to "Polly in a Porny".

Perhaps the most compelling thing I can say about this album is that my ex-wife absolutely hated it (She was the Kenny-G type, but a great "Thumbsucker"). Anyway, my turntable died a few years ago and I moved all my vinyl records into a box in the basement. Of all the albums in that box, I miss this one the most. Tonight, while browsing Amazon, I was elated to find it again on CD! I'm sure that my new "Masochistic Baby" will love it.

A Real Old Favourite
I bought this on vinyl in 1985 for £25 (indicative of the limited import to UK!) & have never regretted a penny of it... nor has anyone I have played it to.... Buy this CD!

Love This CD
I grew up listening to Shel Silverstein as a child in the late 70's. My parents owned all of his more "adult" records and of course I was not allowed to listen to them. Now that I am an adult as well I guess it is okay. My mother bought this cd for me last christmas and I absolutely love it! It shows Shel's other side, the Playboy cartoonist and adult humorist side as apposed to the poetic genius that I loved as a child. God Bless Shell Silverstein! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Can't Believe This Is Still In Print!
I had this actual 33-1/3 record album when I was a child (late 60's) and spent many, many hours sitting in front of the stereo listening to it - I played it ragged! I was both shocked and delighted to see that it's still in print to this day! Listening to it for the first time since my album days brings back so many great memories and brought tears of happiness to my eyes. When I was a child I liked "The Alpabet Song", "Mairzy Doats", and "Three Little Fishies" the best and overall there isn't a bad song on this CD! I'm expecting my first child in July and I purchased this CD for him/her. I'm hoping he/she gains as many happy memories listening to it as I did when I was a child - and even now! A+++++ CD! BUY IT!

A must-buy!
This album was made when the Stooges were enjoying a later-in-life renaissance of popularity (late 1950s/early 1960s), and needed to make some money. (They didn't do well off of their shorts, but that's a different story.) They produced all sorts of kid-friendly stuff, and this album was such a gem that it has remained in print right through to today!

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. My children, girl 12 and boy 10, both love this album! I am surprised, as I had feared that it would be too babyish for them. Instead, all that they have to say about it is that it is too bad that it features Curly-Joe (Joe DeRita - 1909-93), rather than Curly (Jerome Howard - 1903-52) himself. Well, that can't be helped. Anyway, the kids love this new album, and whenever we go out in the car, the whole family ends up listening to the hilarious Stooges.

If you have kids, then you really must buy them this album!

Feeling down? Sing along with the Stooges!
This album is guaranteed to cure the blues! If you've never been a Stooges fan, or thought they were just a bunch of guys who beat each other on the head all the time, this album will change your mind ... and make you happy! If you ARE a Stooges fan, this delightful album is a must for your collection! If you can't resist Moe, Larry and Curly Joe singing "The Merry Go Round Broke Down," you have a heart of stone, my friend! Buy it - Chrissy the Stooges Woman guarantees you'll be a satisfied customer, nyuk nyuk!

Sentimental, Sweet Stooges On This Classic Children's LP
The Three Stooges must have been gratified by the late 1950s to have won over a new audience, via TV, to their then 25-year-old classic short films. It brought their classic comedy to new fans even to this day, explaining why this LP, sub-titled, "The Nonsense Songbook," has remained in print 40 years after its original Coral Records release.

Alhtough most of the Stooges' fun came from seeing, not hearing, them slap and crash their way through every situation, this LP is more for the kids who saw their second set of delightful, full-length childrens' films ("Snow White and The Three Stooges," "The Outlaws Is Coming.") It's wonderful hearing "The Alphabet Song" again, hearing Larry substitute "darn" in "Three Little Fishes," even their sweet versions of "Chickory Chick" and Fanny Brice's "Mairzy Dotes." Lew Douglas' orchestrations recall nothing so much as the classic cartoon scores of Winston Sharples and Carl Stalling.

Only one regret...that, despite Curley Joe DeRita's fine performance here, the original and best Curly passed not only before being able to sing on this record, but before he could be recognized for the comic genius he was. Here's hoping MCA, Rhino, or some other heritage-minded music firm re-releases the Stooges' original "Swingin' The Alphabet," "She Was Brred In Old Kentucky," and the other delightful songs from more than 40 years of classic Stooge films. Recommended for kids and Stooge fans everywhere.

Great for ages 5 to 85
I purchased this cd a couple of months ago because I have always loved the Stooges and their antics. My five year old daughter has learned the "ABC" song and "Mairzy Doats" and sings them often. My Mother has enjoyed it as well as my Grandfather. Great old time songs and great quality sound for such old songs. So not only is it entertaining, it has taught my daughter her vowels! A+++++ ... Read more

Reviews (2)

One of the Better King Speech Collections
This is an excellent collection of King Speeches. It begins with the 1963 Detroit Speech, where "I Have a Dream" was first heard. This is filled with raw, barbed humor that most people don't presently associate with Dr. King. Next is the March on Washington Speech, which has the better knonw version of "I Have a Dream". Much of that is quite stiff before he gets to the Dream segement. Then we have the "Mountaintop" speech of 1968, which is all the more remarkable when you consider this was done without any notes. It conclues rather fittingly with Bobby Kennedy's eulogy of Dr. King, which is made all the more poignant since Bobby Kennedy was also killed just a few weeks later. Overall great listening and great history.

I Wish There Were More Speeches
The title is somewhat misleading, as only three of the speeches feature King, while the last is a speech by Robert Kennedy following King's assassination. There are only four speeches total in this volume, so one hopes there will be more to come. At least the celebrated "I Have a Dream" speech of 1963 is featured in its entirety. The speech still gives me the chills after all these years and remains the standard by which all speeches should be judged. It is the greatest speech of the 20th century, and for anybody to include it complete deserves at least three stars for including it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

For his DreamWorks debut, spoken-word artiste Henry Rollins turns the funny-dude charm way up on 13 jocular monologues. Recorded live at 1997 and 1998 gigs in Chicago and Australia, Think Tank presents a far lighter side than Rollins previously has recorded. He shows another side here, one different from the counterculture icon--the guy with so much pain, he had to tattoo it all over his body and scream it out through rad punk tunes as the human throat for Black Flag and the Rollins Band--and, surprisingly, the lighter Rollins isn't Rollins Lite. The 30-something performer has found his ultimate calling as a caring but angry über-punk who's on your side in the fight against evil. Channeling his rage into prosaic humor, Rollins details the really big problems of life (homophobia, lyrics to Journey songs, racism, vegetarians) and small everyday bummers (the cast of Friends, idiots everywhere, fax machines) alongside detailed postcards from the rock-star life. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (18)

A "Tank" to swim in for hours...
"Think Tank" showcases Henry Rollins at his Spoken Word best, IMHO. This record is so far my favorite of Hank's "Talking" records. The first disc is a collection of mostly short pieces from a birthday show in Chicago, while the second disc contains longer tour stories told in Australia.

Think Tank is great because it takes all the elements of Rollins's storytelling that have shown up individually in his previous records and BAM! Suddenly they all come together, and the result is funny, vicious, cynical, compelling and thought-provoking all at the same time. "El Nino" is a hilarious look at the much-ballyhooed weather pattern that trashed California in 1996-97, while "Airport Hell" rehashes the negative aspects of living life on the road.

My favorite tracks on this Album are the final 5, however. "Nothin Can Go Wrong" is enormously funny, chronicling some of Rollins' more embarassing moments onstage. "Russia" recounts one of the Rollins Band's memorable trips, and "Marius" is the touching (yet not saccharin by any means) tale of a lad with leukemia who Henry got to meet in Australia.

Over and over, these tracks amaze and amuse. I have listened to this record more times than I can count, and I still crack up every time. This is a great record, and I suggest you pick it up. If you're not a Rollins fan yet, you will be after getting this record.

Also check out the companion (sort of) video, "You Saw Me Up There". Not quite as tight as the CD, but it contains one EPIC story about Hank, a single engine plane, and a guy in a cover band.

A Rollins spoken word record which is long overdue.
To those unfamiliar with Henry Rollins' spoken word records, this CD is a very nice introduction to his work. To those who are, this Rollins at his absolute finest. From second one, Hank brings you through his adventures at the airport (continued), television, Bill Clinton, etc. The first CD is a very rapid fire comedic routine, as the second CD is more involved with telling long storylines and being just as funny if not funnier. Henry has mastered his storytelling ability to the point where its effortless, and this is readily evident in these 2 hours. Everyone can relate to at least one of his stories, as he speaks from a perspective of everyday life. This CD set will become a constant companion to you on a lonely night for years to come. If you enjoy this, I highly recommend Human Butt, Live at McCabe's, and the Boxed Life for even more great rides from the life of Henry Rollins.

Why would you buy this here?
Dude, if you want to buy a Rollins CD, go to his website and buy it direct. Why pay $16 for a $10 CD, just to pay for corporate overhead. Henry would not approve!
Oh yeah, screw Ticketmaster too!

Henry's Other Job...
When not fronting Rollins Band or hosting the carnage on TLC's "Full Metal Challenge", Henry tours the globe with his comic act. By this point, the material is professional and polished - until you get to "Marius". This story, of a fan who taught Henry a major life lesson, is the best and most honest bit on the cd.

While I truly prefer Henry's earlier work - the less well-honed sets - this is a very good cd. However, if you really want the Rollins experience, a ticket to his show is required.

Workingmans Hero
After listening to different spoken word artists I would have to say Henry is at the top of the list. Henry is a very intense, funny guy. He has the ability to take what he sees, process it in his brain and then regurgitate it to the audience in a very straightforward humorous way. There is no b.s. with this guy he says it like it is. He's very on the level, never alienates with any kind of "I'm a star" attitude. In fact he went out of the way to play in Chicago as a thank you to his fans. Henry lets his fans know they are appreciated and are the main reason he gets to make a living doing what he does.

Rollins talks alot about society and about how he views peoples interactions with him and each other. Of notable instances, "The Gay Thing" and "Television" will keep you laughing all the way through. The gay thing makes you laugh as well as teach you about being more open minded. After hearing television you might have urges to throw away your tv. Henry's humor isn't over the top, or full of slapstick punchlines. He is very good at observation comedy(add a dash of sarcasm) kind of like a Steven Wright.

Overall this album is a hit; there are some serious moments "Marius" for example is about a fan who is terminally ill. Even an occasional miss such as "El Nino" where Rollins humor just misses the mark. Still even with its little flaws this is a very solid piece of work. Remember this is done by a man who isn't a professional comedian or a trained orator, instead you have a regular Joe off the street doing something people only dream of. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Learn to swim, see you down at Arizona Bay (Tool, "AEnema")
This is probably the best Bill Hicks album to start with - it'sthe one I heard first, anyway. CLASSIC bits about the Rodney Kingtrial / LA riots, plus a lot more. There's also some good little musical interludes in between the blistering comedy bits featuring Bill Hicks on guitar. It may sound wierd, but the music works. 'Relentless' and 'Rant In E-Minor' are exceptional as well. Bill Hicks was a comedian for the thinking man. If you buy one of his CD's, you will NOT be sorry.

Good stuff, but...
I've always enjoyed the many rants and observations of comedian/social commentator Bill Hicks. Even if I don't get a laugh out of his diatribes against the hypocrisies of the world and the U.S., I've always find him fun and interesting to listen to. This album is no exception, except...

I find the guitar music that plays in the background in and between the comedy numbers to be a major, sometimes annoying, distraction. I mean, I know it's music written and performed by Hicks and all, but I feel if they wanted to showcase his musical talent, they should've put it on a separate CD, or at least on separate tracks and not during his rants and raves. But then again, maybe I'm missing the point...

Other than that, I still miss the guy...

'Late!

It's all Bill Hicks.
Bill Hicks performs the vocals and guitar on this cd, and I think it's beautiful music. Not only was he a brilliant comedian, but also a very insightful musician, as the scores show. I don't find that the music detracts at all from the humor. It shows another side of Hicks, and I love it. He is such an inspiration. Play the cd and keep in mind that he is performing all the background music, you'll discover a different kind of appreciation for the work.

Rest In Peace Maestro
This is currently my only Bill Hicks album. My brother in law gave it to me. I guess he figured since I'm a pretty young and angry lad, that I'd probably be interested in it. I gave it a listen one night while I was cleaning up the house, and boy was I in for a treat! I pretty much fell in love with it immediately. Now, I haven't heard any of his other albums yet, but because of this one, I do have full intention on picking them up as well. Bill Hicks knew how to put energy and heart into his performances. He has a stance with every issue and he stupendously holds his ground for the most part. I must forewarn you, however, that this is not for everyone. Some of this leans way past the vulgar side of things, but that's what comedy is all about. Now, I will also warn you that this is not just a spoken comedy album. They incorporated music inbetween the tracks, so you get about of minute or so of music after every spoken bit. The music is okay. It's mostly just laid back guitar and drums, and sometimes there's some humming. Most of the time I skip through it. It was just something he was experimenting with. It's not that much of a nuisance in my opinion, just hit the 'next track' button and you'll be on the spoken bit. To sum this all up, Bill Hicks was a genius. He was considered "over the top" by most, and went out of his way to shatter the rules. His philosophies were set forth as aid for the free thinkers of the world. He was a great, and energetic speaker, and any fan of intelligent comedy should definately be familiar with Hicks and his material. Highly Recommended!

Not for purists - but still superb
Many people dislike this album because of the musical soundtrack: they think that the music distracts from Bill Hick's superb delivery skills.

I disagree: I find the solution quite good; and while not all the bits are first-rate (Bush Sr election loss feels notably dated despite fiery delivery), there are enough brilliant bits to justify the purchase of this CD ten times over. Think hooligans versus LA bloods, think parts of anatomy so big that a police officer has to carry them in a wheelbarrow ("excuse me... excuse me..."): these are lines that are gems of stand-up and set the standard for decades to come.

Buy this, and let the party begin. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Neat
I think everybody in the whole world should get one of these I and my family love it ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A Great Collection!
With the exception of #1-5 being Ray Stevens classics, this CD is a collection of his days at Curb Records. Curb chose some of the best cuts from his albums: "Classic Ray Stevens", "#1 With a Bullet", and "Lend Me Your Ears." They have done a super job of picking some great songs. This is the best CD I can find on covering Ray's work from 1990-1993. It's a must have from any comedy or Ray Stevens fan as the original three CDs are hard to come by. You'll love it!

An Awesome CD
If your a Ray Stevens fan then this cd is a must it has all his best songs on it. This Cd will leave you in stiches. Great for all ages. ... Read more