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On first thought, the idea of the Man in Black recording such covers as "Bridge over Troubled Water," "Danny Boy," and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" might seem odd, even for an artist who's been able to put his personal stamp on just about everything. But American IV: The Man Comes Around, which also draws on Cash's original songs as well as those by Nine Inch Nails ("Hurt"), Sting ("I Hung My Head"), and Depeche Mode ("Personal Jesus"), may be one of the most autobiographical albums of the 70-year-old singer-songwriter's career. Nearly every tune seems chosen to afford the ailing giant of popular music a chance to reflect on his life, and look ahead to what's around the corner. From the opening track--Cash's own "The Man Comes Around," filled with frightening images of Armageddon--the album, produced by Rick Rubin, advances a quiet power and pathos, built around spare arrangements and unflinching honesty in performance and subject. In 15 songs, Cash moves through dark, haunted meditations on death and destruction, poignant farewells, testaments to everlasting love, and hopeful salutes to redemption. He sounds as if he means every word, his baritone-bass, frequently frayed and ravaged, taking on a weary beauty. By the time he gets to the Beatles' "In My Life," you'll very nearly cry. Go ahead. He sounds as if he's about to, too. Unforgettable. --Alanna Nash ... Read more

Reviews (236)

Reach out and touch faith...
This American Recording is different. On this album Johnny Cash (who is now 70 years old) never tries to fool himself or us listeners into thinking that he's going to keep on making album after album after album. Let's face it - the voice is even more ragged and torn than last time (American III) and the lyrics are even more desolate, lonesome, and dark than ever before. But this album of new and old originals & covers is probably one of the most beautiful I've ever heard.

Johnny Cash is not a singer. He never was. But without that dark baritone these songs would not have the impact that they do. I could talk about ever individual track on the album - but I'd rather just make it short and sweet by mentioning a few personal favorites.

"The Man Comes Around" - A Cash original that seemed to take a lot of time to get down (coming from the linear notes). Amazing song about that thing called the apocolypse and judgement day. Nobody could do it like Cash. Nobody...

"Hurt" - Johnny Cash takes one of Trent Reznor's (Nine Inch Nails) best songs and makes it even better. Not only does Cash make the song better but he also makes it seem as if the song was meant for just him. Oh, and there is a word change. Where Reznor would say "I wear this crown of sh*t", Johnny now says "I wear this crown of thorns." The change first kinda put me off but then it seems that Johnny's variation make much more sense then the first.

"Bridge over Toubled Water" - just a great cover of an amazing classic. Fiona Apple adds some tender backing vocals that help Johnny along this tune of trouble and redemption.

"First time ever I saw your face" - Just as where Cash left off on "Spiritual" (from American II) he starts back at with this one. Truly beautiful. Sounds as if they recorded it in a church for Johnny has this amazing echo on his voice. If you don't get tears in your eyes from this one, you're hopeless.

"Sam Hall" - one of the "lighter" tracks, but still painted in black.

"I'm so lonesome I could Cry" - I don't know how it happened. They got 2 of the most interesting singers to appear on a country classic. Nick Cave (who's a big favorite of mine) lent "The Mercy Seat" to Johnny's last American Recording (III), but this time he's lending his voice. Cash and Cave swap lines from this Hank Williams classic.

"We'll meet Again" - so you go through this dark and cold world where people can't even remember how to pray let alone carry a bible and then you come to the end and a smile is finally cracks and some light pours through as the door opens. Cash ends on a positive note and the whole damn Cash family joins in at the very end.

Who knows if Cash will record anymore albums. It's hard to tell. The man is in and out of the hospital constantly (or so it seems) and any one of us would've probably called it quits. Elvis didn't make it, Orbison didn't make it, but the Man in Black is still reaching out and touching us. He's still tormented by the feeling that music must be played. He's still not thinking that this will be the last song he sings. He's still got soul and he's still got love.

Songs from the other side of the grave
Ever heard a dead man sing? If you personally lack that singular experience, then listening to this album is probably as close as you will ever get. I am referring not to the man's much-publicized recent health problems, but rather to his voice - one of the great treasures of American music - on this recording. Although it is as unmistakable as ever, you can hear the age, the experience, and the wisdom in Cash's voice - not to mention the depths of dispair. I pray I can sound this good when I am 70. The lyrical content of the album is in keeping with this motif. Though it contains only one newly-written song - something which I don't think many people have realized, as almost every review I've read of the album refers to multiple new songs - it is one of the most autobiographical albums of Cash's career. The vast majority of the songs focus either on death or on looking back at one's life. The one new song, the title track, is an absolute masterpiece and - dare I say - one of the best songs Cash has ever written (though, indeed, if Johnny wrote "three dozen pages of lyrics" to the song before weeding it down to what we have on the album, as he states in the booklet, surely he could have found a replacement for the "father hen" verse.) Scary and convincing, it gets the album off to a great start, and deftly sets the tone for the rest of the material. What follows are 12 covers - some traditional, some very well-known - as well as new workings of two classic Cash songs. These latter two tracks are highlights of the album, and Cash's new throaty growl sheds a previously undreamed-of light on Give My Love To Rose. The covers, on the other hand (and unlike on the previous albums in the American series) are more of a mixed bag. Though the man has proved again and again that he can perform absolutely any song in existence, the key to the covers on the previous American albums is that they were, for the most part, relatively obscure songs - or, at any rate, not tracks as well known as Desperado, In My Life, and Bridge Over Troubled Water. There are already so many versions of these songs out there (not to mention the fact that the original versions were already perfect and incapable of being equaled) that the question of whether or not we need one from Cash is debatable. Though I would not call them necessarily superfluous - I actually quite like the album's version of Bridge - they certainly were not necessary. Apparently, Cash and Rubin (probably the latter more than the former) now consider a diverse set of covers obligatory. Still, some are essential. Cash's version of Trent Reznor's Hurt is masterful and lends the song a depth and profundity merely hinted at on the original. Though NIN fans might be quick to dismiss Cash's changing the lyric "I wear this crown of ...." to "crown of thorns" as an old man's squeemish desire to be PC, it, in fact, makes much more sense than the original line, as well as being more meaningful and profound. Having never before heard Sting's original version of I Hung My Head, I was surprised to find that this great song was written by a songwriter that I normally despise; of course, Cash makes it his own. Bridge Over Troubled Water, which has been maligned in many reviews but which was also nominated for a Grammy, is a nice rendition; to this day, it is hard for me, just like anyone else, to imagine the song without Art Garfunkel's soaring angelic vocals, but Cash's deeply emotive growl is a nice trade-off. The Man In Black's duet with his greatest prodigy, Nick Cave, is also a worthy track. That said, though I hate to critize one of the greatest singers of our time, the man seems to have merely mailed in his version of the oft-covered Beatles classic In My Life - though it can still manage to draw a tear from your eye, just from thinking of Cash's life story while listening to him sing it. Though not quite as good as the previous American albums - perhaps it is time for the man to move on or re-evaluate their format - this is still a very good album, worth owning for the first two tracks alone. One can only hope that the sentiment Cash expresses in the final song - We'll Meet Again - holds true.

As cool as it is moving.
It's amazing how popular this album became, but that's fine, just more people to love "Johnny Cash". This 4th of the "American Recordings" albums is as good as the others, though you can hear that his voice is weaker than it was before. His originals here are all excellent as always, especially the title track, however "American 4" is also cover heavy. He does the popular "Nine Inch Nails" song "Hurt", as well as songs by "Simon And Garfunkel", "Sting", "Depeche Mode", "The Beatles", and "The Eagles". As always, he seems to make each song his own. Overall I actually like "Unchained" better, but this and all of his albums are wonderful. It's the sound of cool country.

Get the version with the "Hurt" DVD
Buy the version with the DVD containing the "Hurt" video, the most moving music video I have seen. Without the video, the song is powerful; with it, one can experience even more, as the images are well selected and well arranged.

Although I am an atheist, I enjoyed Cash' version of the End Times on "The Man Comes Around," using such interesting phrases as "The Father Hen will call his chickens home" and the Biblical parablic allusion about the virgins trimming their wicks.

Perhaps the most moving line is to hear Cash, with his faded voice, sing, in "Streets of Laredo," "It was once in the saddle
I used to go dashing," realizing his dashing days are long gone, with the sum of his days nearly expired as well.

A wonderful album that you do not want to miss. Just be sure you get the DVD, as well.

Last Testament.
His voice is weathered but the overall effect is quite good. The cover of the Trent Reznor song, "Hurt," is surprising in its complexity and beauty. I would never have expected Johnny to sing that song so hauntingly which is in keeping with the theme of the free video DVD which is attached. "Danny Boy" is strong but the title track is superlative. His short interpretation of the biblical passage of the white rider bringing death is fantastic. I was not prepared for the way in which in this CD grew on me. ... Read more

Album Description

From pop-culture icon William Shatner comes Has Been, an album unlike anything you’ve ever heard before. Produced and arranged by Ben Folds and featuring numerous notable guest appearances, Has Been is the result of the collision of two great creative forces — a surprisingly pop-driven, lyrically potent collection of songs to enlighten and entertain.

Throughout Has Been, Shatner’s own insightful lyrics are masterfully woven into perfect pop melodies written and arranged by Ben Folds. Giving Shatner and Folds a hand on the project is an incredible lineup of singers and musicians, including Jon Auer, Adrian Belew, Matt Chamberlain, Joe Jackson, Lemon Jelly, Aimee Mann, Brad Paisley, Henry Rollins and Sebastian Steinberg.

Highlights include the poignant "That’s Me Trying," penned by Ben Folds with High Fidelity author Nick Hornby, a brilliant version of the Pulp Britpop classic "Common People," featuring vocals by Joe Jackson and closing track, "Real," a duet with country star Brad Paisley, written exclusively for this project. ... Read more

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

Amazon.com's Best of 1999

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

Reviews (31)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviews (57)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amazon.com

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

Reviews (163)

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

A MUST FOR EVERY CD COLLECTOR OF SARAH BRIGHTMAN!

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

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

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

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

Amazon.com

This sentimentally over-the-top spoken-word recording was originally issued in 1973, during the height of Watergate and the final, unsettling days of the Vietnam War. In the wake of September 11, 2001, the John Wayne Estate reissued it on CD. And why not? Marion Morrison, a.k.a. John Wayne and the Duke, remains an enduring symbol of America--a country with an endlessly conflicted legacy of largely improvised symbolism, national myths, revised-on-a-dime history, and the freedom to make a buck on effusive patriotic rhetoric. Kitsch collectors may welcome the chance to own a true genre staple in digital sound, while others may yet find genuine solace in its orchestra-and-choir-backed oratory. With a poetic sensibility that seldom strays from the "Carolina pines/Appalachian mines" level of its opening verses, Wayne's processed voice (which betrays the health problems that would be his demise) expounds on topics that range from his homeland's undeniable natural beauty to his son's high school football career and the wisdom of a fictionalized aging Mexican caballero. The would-be idealism in "The Hyphen" aims to erase ethnic and racial boundaries, yet modern hyphenated Americans may find continued prejudice and the vagaries of history have rendered its rhetoric distinctly double-edged. Still, Wayne's love of country emanates from every track. Patriotism may be the last refuge of scoundrels, but it's been graciously hospitable to Hollywood icons, from the Duke to Dutch Reagan. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Heart-warming and inspiring...
I am the proud owner of this on vinyl. I have been listening to it, for obvious reasons, lately and decided I needed to see if it was available on CD. I am thrilled to find that it is.
John Wayne took his responsibity to the American people for the persona of "John Wayne" very seriously. The words and music are a stirring proclamation about what is right with America.

America, Why I Love Her
In typical John Wayne style, he talks of all the pride and reasons he loves America. We owned this album on original 8 track tape and are estatic that it was re-released. Especially in these times, this CD will touch the hearts of many Americans. No one with even a little pride in this great nation will come away with less than goose bumps and a sense of oneness. A great album then and NOW>

I pledge allegiance to the Duke
The year was 1973. Patriotism was at an all time low thanks to Vietnam and Watergate. One man decided to do something about it. From out of the west came... an actor. No, not Ronald Reagan! It was John Wayne! Yes, the Duke himself. He recorded a narrative tribute (with orchestra and chorus) to America. Wayne himself did not sing, which may have been for the best. I don't know if this album restored anyone's patriotism. I admire John Wayne as an actor, but honestly, this album is kind of corny and boring. If you are more of a flag waver than I am, you may get more out of this album than I did.

John Wayne is The West
I've always loved John Wayne and so has my dad and when this cd came out to commemorate 9/11, we loved it and still do!

The "DUKE"
I do not yet have this cd, but have heard some songs from it, I loved them. John Wayne is awesome!!! He is my Fav actor as well!
CAS ... Read more

Amazon.com

On first thought, the idea of The Man in Black recording such covers as "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "Danny Boy," and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" might seem odd, even for an artist who’s been able to put his personal stamp on just about everything. But American IV: The Man Comes Around, which also draws on Cash’s original songs as well as those by Nine Inch Nails ("Hurt"), Sting ("I Hung My Head"), and Depeche Mode ("Personal Jesus"), may be one of the most autobiographical albums of the 70-year old singer-songwriter’s career. Nearly every tune seems chosen to afford the ailing giant of popular music a chance to reflect on his life--and look ahead to what’s around the corner. From the opening track, Cash’s own "The Man Comes Around," filled with frightening images of Armageddon, the album, produced by Rick Rubin, advances a quiet power and pathos, built around spare arrangements and unflinching honesty in performance and subject. In 15 songs, Cash moves through dark, haunted meditations on death and destruction, poignant farewells, testaments to everlasting love, and hopeful salutes to redemption. He sounds as if he means every word, his baritone-bass, frequently frayed and ravaged, taking on a weary beauty. By the time he gets to the Beatles’ "In My Life," you’ll very nearly cry. Go ahead. He sounds as if he’s about to, too. Unforgettable. (This special 2003 version includes a bonus DVD with the music video for "Hurt.") --Alanna Nash ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Farewell to a Legend
Johnny Cash's music resonates through many genres, and this album is no exception. "Danny Boy" and "We'll Meet Again" hold even more meaning with his recent passing, and he does justice to the songs that he covered on the rest of the album.

The video for "Hurt" was eerily poignant to watch after June Carter Cash's passing in May, because it was as if she was watching over him in death as she did in life. It is one of the most stunning, emotional pieces of film I have ever seen. His rendition of the song is nothing but raw emotion.

Though he was frail and getting on in years, Mr. Cash was a wonderful musician, and he will not be forgotten. I encourage you to buy this CD, but also to check out his earlier works. You will not be disappointed. There will NEVER be another Man in Black.

RIP Johnny Cash.

OH MY GOD
I have heard both Trent Reznor's and Johnny Cash's versions of HURT. Trent's version speaks from a young person's point of view and is fine...but in the hands...and voice...and soul of Johnny Cash, it takes on a resonance and meaning that NIN can't even begin to touch. I have seen the video and listened to the song numerous times and I cry every time. It is particularly heart wrenching now that June has passed...Everyone I know goes away in the end...how much more than one man take?

The other songs are good...and the album is superior...but I honestly listen to it for HURT. This album is the crowning touch to a phenomenal career but HURT is the diamond in the crown...his whole life in one song. People need to get over categorizations. This is brilliant MUSIC, no matter what the genre. This is a brilliant musician. He does not have the best singing voice, but his vocals have more soul in them than ANYONE else out there now. I would put him with Billie Holliday when it comes to singing from the very core of being.

Singers like Johnny come our way so infrequently...we need to hold on to him as long as we can.

4.5 stars - His final album
American IV: The Man Comes Around (2002.)

For nearly half a century, Johnny Cash has been one of the greatest musicians out there, period. His stylings, which fuse elements of rock, pop, and country, have made hin loved by many (I personally am not too fond of country music, but Cash is one of the lone exceptions.) Over the years Cash has experimented with a number of different sounds, nearly all of which brought him a good deal of success. In 2002, Cash released his final album, entitled American IV: The Man Comes Around. How does this release, Cash's final album before his death in 2003, measure up? Read up and find out.

When you looked at the tracklist to this album, you may have noticed something - MANY of the tracks on this album are cover songs. The cover songs are what I will discuss first. The first of these songs to discuss is Hurt, a cover of a Nine Inch Nails song. I admit, I was in shock when I discovered Cash was covering one of THEIR songs. But when I listened to Cash's version, I was quite impressed. Cash's simplistic yet emotional take on the song makes for a very pleasant listening experience. Another cover song featured here is Bridge Over Troubled Water, originally performed by Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. This cover isn't actually too far off from the original version. It isn't better than the original, nor is it worse. I Hung My Head is a country-inspired tune that was written by former Police frontman Sting, but by listening to Cash's version of the song, you would never guess that Sting wrote it - the song sounds like a Cash original. Another thing that shocked me is that Cash was covering Personal Jesus on this album - a highly bizzare new wave song originally performed by Depeche Mode. But what shocked me even more is that Cash's version of the song is better than the original! Cash's stripped-down take on the song, in my opinion, makes it stronger than Depeche Mode's original. Desperado is a country-style song originally performed by classic rockers The Eagles. Once again, this is a tune that doesn't differ greatly from the original - it's no better, no worse. In My Life is a cover of a Beatles song, and in my opinion, it's the only song on ths album that is inferior to the original recording - but that's not to say Cash's take on the song isn't excellent. And, almost needless to say, the other songs featured on the album are excellent, too. Many of them are the classic fusion of pop rock and country that we love Cash for, and some (like Give My Love To Rose) are emotional masterpieces. All in all, this is an excellent album - it's just a shame it will be Cash's last.

Honestly, how many musicians do you know of that were still making records at age seventy - much less GOOD records? More than likely, Cash is the only person you know of that falls into this category. His age definitely shows in his singing on the album, but surprisingly, it doesn't detract from the overall quality of the album. Regardless of who you are, I strongly recommend giving this album a listen - I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

The Album that Brought Me Back to Cash
When I was growing up, I loved country music. Johnny Cash was a particular favorite until I was around 13, and stopped listening to anything from Nashville. From 1995 until 2000, I didn't buy country albums, watch country videos, or listen to country songs. Gradually though, I started to listen to the songs of Hank Williams, Willie Nelson, and others again, but for some reason I never picked up my Johnny Cash cds. That was until I saw the video for "Hurt" on the internet.

I was shocked to see the Man in Black so ravaged by time, so obviously weak and frail, his voice losing it's power. I was also amazed at how wonderfully the song fit the man, and how well he delivered it regardless of his ailments.

Within a month I had purchased this album, and discovered that there was not just one gem on this album, but rather an entire cd of amazing music. Soon after buying American IV, I completed the American Recordings collection (including the Unearthed box set), and finally began listening to those great albums I had had all along. Now everyime I listen to songs like "Folsom Prison Blues", "I Walk the Line", "San Quntin", "Long Black Veil", ect..., I have "American IV: The Man Comes Around" to thank. Do yourself a favor and pick this modern classic today.

video hurt is incredible bonus
I'm new to Johnny and got turned on by Dawn of the Dead. This is the CD to get. ... Read more

Album Description

Subtitled - Without A Worry In The World. 2003 compilationfeaturing 22 tracks from the beat poetry poptraditionalist. BR Music. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Quite Disappointing
I have been a Rod McKuen follower since the 1970s and miss some of my early LPs that were unfortunately stolen years ago. So I ordered this CD in good faith but when I played it was amazed to hear that the sound and tempo of the songs (in my mind based from hearing them years ago) was faster, possibly to fit all the selections on one CD (I don't know). End product is a sound that is NOT romantic OR mood seting, not peaceful, rather racing through the selections to the point of annoyance. Save your money up to buy older and in good condition copies of the originals, like I am doing. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Mixed Bag from a Master Raconteur
"The King of the Night People" spins his yarns and shares his insights in this, a wonderful collection of some of Shep's better bits.

I, for one, never really "got" the enthusiasm over Shep's preoccupation with Orphan Annie, a cut on this CD that I personally would skip. Where this late, underrated cult figure excelled, I believe, was in his trenchant social commentary and understanding of the human psyche. Here, two riffs - one related to Role Reversal, the other to the connection between male sexuality and autos - presaged societal trends, and they really hit their mark.

Shep was at his finest in the late Fifties to mid-Sixties, and this CD captures some of his better material quite nicely.

Long live Shep!
A long lost treasure comes to CD. Go ahead...just try to find a copy of this little beauty on vinyl...I double dog dare 'ya. This disc is made up of several of Shep's best bits captured live on stage in NY in the early '60s. No one...but no one tells a story better than Shep did...either on radio or in print. This disc is short...and there are a few very minor sound problems (remastered?)...but you will not regret picking this album up while you can. ... Read more

Album Description

Stardust Records presents a 2 CD set of Orson Welles andthe Mercury Theatre's radio productions of The War Of TheWorlds and Dracula. Limited edition. 2 CD's in slimlinejewelbox and slipcase. 2001 release. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A terrific remastering.
These are two legendary broadcasts from the Mercury Theatre on the Air. First, the infamous War of the Worlds from Halloween, 1938, and, on the second disc, Dracula, the first ever Mercury Theatre broadcast. Both evoke their respective moods perfectly, an example of the quality of work done by the Mercury Theatre.

This is also a real deal for the price. Two CDs, excellent audio quality (especially considering the ages of the sources) and a retrospective booklet included.

A perfect gift for the Old-Time Radio--or Orson Welles--fan. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Great Collection Of a Great Orator
Winston Churchill is without question one of the best orators of all time. This CD is a compact, portable, and concise record of his best and most famous speeches including his best known, "We shall never surrender!" speech to Parliament.

But if you're looking for a comprehensive, unedited collection than this is not for you. Many of the recordings are snipped, especially the address given in Canada (Track 10) which is cut to around thirty seconds! And this is hardly a comlete record of all his great speeches.

All in all, this is a good addition to any collection of the spoken word. It shows just how fortuitous it was that Britain had such a great man to lead it in what truely was his, and their finest hour. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

It's not all in English....
...in fact most of it's in Latin. If you're a pre-Vatican II Roman Catholic, then you'll probably be able to follow along after listening closely for a few minutes. I understood the Hail Mary, Our Father, Glory Be.. but not the rest. Had I know it was mostly in Latin, I would not have purchased it.

forwarned
while this is an excellent CD and I love hearing the pope say the rosary, be forwarned that (english) only refers to the title of each mystery all the the prayers the Our Father, Hail Mary, and the Glory be are in latin.

Pope John Paul II is the best!
This Rosary with the Pope is excellent. Once I started listening to it, I couldn't put it down. It has been about 5 years since I've owned this CD /cassette. I still listen to it often. The Latin language is easy to pick up. And, you can pray along with the Holy Father. It makes me feel as though he's in the same room. I LOVE IT! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Students and teachers of history, enthusiasts of speechmaking, and folks needing something different to spice up those mix tapes with will enjoy this inspired four-disc tour of a century. It's a bit heavy on events a baby boomer is most likely to be interested in, but there's nothing wrong with knowing one's audience. For the most part, these recordings make 20th-century history appear to be happening right now. It might sound clichéd, but it really is a thrill to hear history in the making: Woodrow Wilson lying to the American Indians, Gloria Steinem addressing the National Organization for Women, the launch of sputnik, Dr. King delivering the "I Have a Dream" speech with intense clarity and emotion, Kennedy delivering his infamous address to the nation after being sworn in, the very first recording ever made on an Edison phonograph, Nixon resigning in shame, Hitler hatefully ranting about Germanic expansionism, Malcolm X powerfully speaking on black power, Babe Ruth saying good-bye to baseball, and Neil Armstrong uttering those famous words as he first steps onto the moon. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great classroom resource
This is a must for any US History teacher. It's one thing to read a landmark speech, quite another to hear it as you read along. Studying history is much more interesting when students can "touch" "hear" "see" it. To have the actual voice putting inflection and feeling to the words makes it more memorable. Students today are so visual that merely listening to the speech is ineffective. (trust me, they will fall asleep.) Hand out a printed copy of the speech for them to read along with and highlight key points. It's also helpful when students are taking the AP US History exam to be able to quote speeches in their DBQs.

Important Set--Good for school use
As a teacher this set is invaluable. The recordings are well-chosen and nicely mastered. It's a good survey of 20th century audio recordings.

A Good Collection That Could Have Been Better
This 1991 box set, put together a bit after the Persian Gulf War is an important document of American History. All in all, Great Speeches of the 20th Century is a good collection that could have been even better. It in fact includes many of the great speeches of the 20th Century. It begins with the 27th president, William Howard Taft, and includes all of the 20th century presidents up until 1991 with the exception of McKinley, Harding, Hoover and Ford. But the presidential speeches are not the highlights of this collection. Dr. King's "I Have A Dream Speech" rightly stands out as the finest oration on the entire 4 disc set. However, his final speech given in Memphis the night before he was murdered, including the immortal words "I Have Been To The Mountaintop," is nowhere to be found. That is an unfortunate omission. A more substantial offering from Malcolm X, besides his one minute comment on Black Power, would have also improved this set. My biggest criticism though is not with the selection, but with the editing and liner notes. Some of the edits massacre the speeches-the worst is hearing the few second snippet of Gehrig's fairwell spreech to baseball. On the other hand, a number of key speeches are given in their entirety and they are really powerful-the brilliant and insightful Eisenhower farewell speech should be heard by every American in its entirety at least once- it is still highly relevent today. My beef with the liner notes is that they give short shrift to certain speeches that are really extraordinary. It doesn't even mention the context in which RFK delivers what stands out as perhaps the greatest off the cuff speech in American History. Hearing it and knowing the emotional context is almost worth the price of the 4 cd set itself. It is even more impressive in the context of all the other "great speeches" that were carefully crafted. My only other beefs are that I would have included a more articulate speech than Jerry Rubin's to represent the anti-war movement- it makes Spiro Agnew sound like a brilliant stateman- and I would have included Nixon's final farewell to the White House staff, which is a very revealing and fascinating speech. Still, all criticisms aside, Great Speeches of the 20th Century is a good collection- and it is really neat to hear the voices of Teddy Roosevelt, Taft and Wilson. Now if we only had a recording of Lincoln....

Dynamic Voices of Inspiration
Hear those wise voices cry for redemption. Recall the power and emotion felt by a nation as these speaches were told. Remember how they impacted the course history, shaping the present. This CD captures the some of best and worst moments of our time. This is a great source of inspiration for anyone who cares to hear old, famous or dead people speak their mind. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Performed by a raucous sextet made up of beats, bass, guitar, cello, viola, and griot, Saul Williams hip-hop sounds like modern chamber music. It's music informed as much by Hendrix's star-strangled striations and Miles Davis's alchemical electric period as it is the krunk-krunk of contemporary hip-hop. On Amethyst Rock Star Williams exorcises urban music of its self-destructive excess, channeling its rowdy energy into a ritualized raising of consciousness. The single "Penny for a Thought" breaks into jacked-up breakbeats as Williams calls out those who sell their souls into artistic slavery for the same chump change paid to their chained ancestors. He makes like a soothsayer on "Robeson," reeling off a call for the heroic figures of the past to make their presence known in the future. Williams's singing voice is as robust as his words, soaring like a veteran rock croaker; on "Fearless" he attempts to dissolve the influence of an unnameable "she" on his psyche by spontaneously bursting into song. "Coded Language," a linguistic mantra first recorded for the DJ Krust album of the same name, makes a return appearance, sounding not a bit out of place with its warp-speed breaks and nitroglycerin orchestration. Saul breaks out on the epic closer, "Wine," a torch-burning call for collective empowerment that comes off like Purple Rain for the no-age generation. --Chris Campion ... Read more

Reviews (25)

saul williams 'amethyst rock star'
To be honest, i was somewhat frustrated with this material when i first listened to it. however, over the better part of a week i continued to listen to 'amethyst rock star,' and as i did both my interest in l and enjoyment of the material grew.

undoubtedly, it takes a few listens to appreciate williams' work. and a listener unprepared for williams' content and style is in for shock. williams is a poet to many, hip hop artist to some--his work being less entertainment than inspiration. of course for those who have seen him live--lyricst lounge, tours, readings, etc.--it is difficult to contend his presence and immediacy.

'amethyst rock star' is an important album. all the tracks are lyrically sound, though some of the production does not seem to fit. of course, the more i listen, the more i have come to enjoy the production.

in any case, enjoy, but be prepared to truly listen to this material. warning: this album is not conducive to Passive Listeners.

Stunning
Most assuredly, this is a fractured album: there are moments of simply amazing lyrical gymnastics, verses of sheer spoken-word brilliance, but there are also tracks where one simply wonders what in hell Saul was thinking, and why he chose to share it with us. Whether the confusion is due to Saul's being a tortured visionary far beyond our ken is debatable. Nevertheless, this disc is a tour de force spanning multiple genres and far outstripping most of its competition for top honours here.Saul Williams, star of the Sundance Festival favourite Slam (1998) and guest actor on HBO's wildly successful show "Oz," is neither a rapper nor a mere poet-he's a spoken-word artist, worlds apart from either of the other labels. On this disc his gifts are on display for all to see and appreciate; the listener is sucked into his philosophical and socio-political ideas with catchy beats ("Penny for a Thought"), heavy-metal guitars ("Omni American"), drum 'n' bass soundscapes ("Coded Language," featuring Krust), and ethereal choruses ("Tao of Now," featuring Esthero). There is also a toxic love story ("Fearless"), a hip-hop culture retrospective ("1987"), and a paean to fathers that features a monologue by Saul's father, an ordained minister.If you like Gil Scott-Heron, you'll recognise that Saul is his X-generation heir. If you like Public Enemy or KRS-One (with whom he collaborated on an earlier effort), you'll accept Saul as if he were their younger brother. If Rage Against the Machine and Living Colour are your style, you might notice the resemblance between them and him, as if he were their second cousin just now becoming ascendant. And if you enjoy Sartre and his ilk, you'll thrill to his existential flights of fancy.

wow
this is how god intended rap to be, meaningful lyrics to a beat, this almost has a beatnik feel to it, i cannot suggest this cd strongly enough, just grab a cup of coffee and sit down, you won't be able to do much else but listen to this one

As good as it gets
Though it's more than just hip hop, a hybrid of rock, trip hop, psychedilia, industrial, drum n'bass, all inbetween, it's mostly related to hip hop at it's core element. Being this it almost sounds like the farthest hip hop has gone. I dont think anyone could challenge Saul on this. Phenomenal.

Lighten up, dude!
I'm sorry this has to be said, as I used to be political and angry for no reason, too. But Saul Williams needs to lighten up.
The music is great - it's very imaginative, and Saul is a talented and intelligent writer, but stop picking on the commercial rappers for enjoying the finer things in life!
Saul is just too serious and pretentious, and weird for the sake of weird, like post-modern art (then again, I suppose that's what Saul and Rick Rubin, the producer, were going for.) He's obviously a skilled guy; he writes raps, spoken word, and he can even sing (though when he does, he sounds like Lenny Kravitz if he'd lost all hope in everything). I'm not heavy on bling bling party rap, and I enjoy some conscious rappers (my favorite rapper's Common), but I think Saul should take some of that talent of his and have fun with it! People like to DANCE to music, not sit and grow more and more miserable with each passing word. Saul sounds like he's condemning humanity at times on this album! He sins, just like the rest of us!
That aside, I don't think there's a bad track on the album, and I would recommend it to some, but not all. It's certainly an acquired taste. ... Read more

Amazon.com

His Royal Hipness was as unique as they come, an eccentric white cat who made his mark by recasting familiar tales--from Shakespeare, the Bible, and beyond--in a frantic spray of black street lingo, jazz-speak, and hipster jive. In Buckley's mind, Jesus became "The Nazz," Gandhi "The Hip Gan," and explorer Vasco da Gama "Cabeza de Gasca." That would be adventurous now. It was simply unheard of in the 1940s and 1950s when Buckley was plying his trade, entertaining audiences he called his Royal Court. He was too weird to be more than a cult figure, but his defiant persona, deep individualism, and comic sense of cool certainly influenced the likes of Mort Sahl, Lenny Bruce, and even Bob Dylan. Gone, wailin' stuff. --Michael Ruby ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Are you there?
I'm reviewing this item now because Oliver Trager's _Dig Infinity_ has just been published. I highly recommed Trager's biography, but if you want to meet His Lordship you'll have to listen to him. Trager's book includes a CD, and readers will want to know that there isn't much overlap between that one and this one.

"This one" is a re-release of _The Best of Lord Buckley_ and it includes some of his greatest raps (notably, of course, "The Nazz," deservedly his most famous). A different recording of "The Nazz" is also included on the Trager CD, and so is a different recording of "People." But that's as far as the overlap extends.

If you haven't heard Lord Richard Buckley before, I don't really know how to explain to you who and what he was. Was he an entertainer? A saint? A scoundrel? A bodhisattva? A con man? A raconteur? A shaman? A swindler? An evangelist? A shameless moocher? An artist? An agent of God? A prankster? A drunk?

Well, yeah.

Above all, His Lordship was a sweet cat who blew a solid ace lick, one of the gonest, wailin'est cats who ever stomped this sweet swingin' sphere. This CD -- so far as I know the only Buckley CD currently available -- includes the best of his best, though of course there's a lot of fine material that just isn't here. If you haven't met the Hip Messiah yet, do yourself a favor and give this a listen. And have a look at Trager's biography too.

On the Road with Lord Buckley
Plunging into Lord Buckley is like taking a leasurely swim through the mind of Jack Kerouac, or Sam Spade.

"Hey, Jonah?"
"What is it, fish?"

Everything with a time and a place, and this word is *it*, the thing and everything. Swoop this scene -- it's great.

A great *writer!*
For inventiveness with the spoken word, few even approach the genius of Lord Buckley. This recording is not hysterically funny (although it is not without laughs, either). What makes it so enthralling is not humor, but the sheer delight of Buckley's wordplay, and his thorough knowledge and love for humanity and for his subjects. The last track is among the most touching 40 seconds on record. If you buy this CD, you will find yourself thinking "What in the world did I do?" about 5 minutes into it. Twenty minutes later, you'll be thinking: "This is bloody marvelous!" ... Read more

Album Description

UNEDITED, UNCENSORED, UNAPOLOGETIC...The ultimate Lenny Bruce box set 10 years in the making!

Let The Buyer Beware is an unprecedented 6-CD boxed collection of Lenny Bruce’s popular recorded performances, never-before-released performances, and various private recordings that tell the powerful, funny, and ultimately tragic story of the man whose brilliance and convictions turned stand-up comedy on its head. Lenny Bruce (1925–1966) was a brilliant, outspoken satirist unafraid to speak about such then-taboo topics as sex, race, religion and politics. According to critic Nat Hentoff, "Lenny delighted in exploring why certain words were forbidden—and then demystifying them." Bruce eventually became a victim of his own talent; he was blacklisted by the establishment, but fought the laws of censorship until it eventually killed him.

Much of the public remains unaware of the wealth of personal recordings Bruce made over the years; he recorded everything from private rehearsals of new bits, to phone conversations and paranoid tirades. This collection is the first to tell the definitive Lenny Bruce story.

*This long-awaited box set is the ultimate tribute to a man that Comedy Central calls the #3 comedian of all time.

*Over 7 1/2 hours of performances, interviews, and wire taps, including: 69 previously unreleased recordings, 10 previously unreleased selections from Lenny’s personal tapes, and 4 previously unreleased radio interviews.

*Contains classic recordings of "Religions, Inc," "How To Relax Your Colored Friends At Parties," "Airplane Glue," "Jewish & Goyish," "Tits And Ass" and more.

*Also contains such unreleased material as Bruce’s WFMT Chicago radio interview with Studs Terkel, many bits from performances at the Jazz Workshop and Off Broadway in San Francisco, The Gate of Horn in Chicago, and The Den in New York and an unused radio ad for Zeidler & Zeidler clothiers.

*Luxuriously packaged in a unique 80-page hardbound book, containing unpublished photos and memorabilia, as well as essays by Lenny Bruce’s daughter, Kitty; Bruce expert Marvin Worth; set producer Hal Willner; and writer Paul Krassner; plus tributes, a chronology, a glossary, and much, much more. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"Most Lutherans aren't musicians; they're choir members," says Prairie Home Companion creator Garrison Keillor. In "The Young Lutheran's Guide to the Orchestra," he further comments, "Cellists seem like such nice people. The way they put their arms around their instruments, they look like parents at a daycare center, zipping up snowsuits." Such is the droll National Public Radio humor he embodies; listeners either adore or disparage him for his pedestrian slice of Midwestern nostalgia. Here in 1989, in front of a hometown audience with the majestic Minnesota Orchestra, Keillor holds court, bearish baritone intermingling with French horn and strings. He dishes on everything from patriotism to Powdermilk Biscuits to orchestral instruments in the context of Christianity and good Christians, particularly that ever dry hot-dish-eating Lutheran sect in the Minneapolis region. Keillor is like big brother home from college, poking fun at his family upon seeing them with fresh eyes. Delightful. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The Great Garrison Does it Again
After shuffling this CD around for some time (I had sort of "inherited" it from my father, and just hadn't gotten around to listening to it), I finally gave it a go on the stereo...and was utterly delighted. Here is a wonderful example of Keillor's work - warmly poking fun at his home state, making his classic commentary on Lutheranism, and peeking a little into his past. It makes for great comedy, and wonderful listening.

Let's go through this sequentially, shall we? The "Whoopi Ti-Yi-Yo" piece is great - the song about a humorist's work, set to cattle-rustling music is such a clever concept, you'll have to hear it for yourself. Just the fact that he mentions his "hand-carved, hand-tooled ballpoint" makes it an instant Keillor classic. The "Sons of Knute", set to Grieg's Homage March is wonderful, as well - such silly lyrics ("Sons of Knute, marching to freedom...") set to such a noble composition - it's a marriage made in heaven. "The Young Lutheran's Guide to the Orchestra" will surely go down as one of the great Keillor works - it's pure genius. His description of each instrument's sound, and what one should associate it with, is guaranteed to draw laughter from the stodgiest curmudgeon. And, of course, the analysis of each instrument's player - priceless. "The Radio Announcer" is classic Keillor nostalgia, touched with hilarity, and bittersweet memory - the outcome of his college radio career is absolutely knee-slapping. Finally, the "Song of the Exiles" shows Keillor at his best - almost hypnotizing in his ability to capture in words the character of a place, time and surrounding experience. Here is where his work truly shines, and it is the perfect way to wind up the album. Through it all, the Minnesota Orchestra accompanies beautifully, enhancing perfectly Keillor's written word. Everything falls into place seamlessly.

I can honestly say that this CD is among my top twenty, and is never far from my stereo. It fits my every mood, and I never tire of it. If you're a fan of Keillor, it's a must-have. If you're new to his work, here's a good place to start.

Gentle, Tasteful Humor
Heard "Young Lutheran's Guide to the Orchestra" on the radio and just had to have it. Along with this great cut, discovered other material in the same great vein as Keillor's other stuff.

"The Radio Announcer" piece is but one such example, here his story of young college kid who wants to impress Renee, but finds future life's work in so doing. "And now, without commerical intervention, J.S. Bach's St. Matthew Passion" Off to the library! Hilarious and entertaining.

Neat stuff to share with all ages, from this classic storyteller who can also sing the blues as well as yodel.

Gentle Humor - A Good Listen in Sad Times
This tape provides gentle humor and excellent music. It is patriotic without being sentimental and ironic without being mean. If you know a music lover who is going on a road trip soon, give this tape or CD as a gift. It is perfect road trip entertainment. Garrison Keillor fans will love this and be quite at home with his ironic and funny stories. Those who are not familiar with Keillor will soon be fans.

FANTASTIC! HILARIOUS! DELIGHTFUL!
I have always enjoyed the unique humor of Garrison Keillor, and especially his poking fun at his severe Lutheran background. I especially enjoyed his take-off on Benjamin Britten's "A Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra." Keillor did a Lutheran guide, ingeniously suggesting what kind of people choose particular instruments. There is an impressive real symphonic accompaniment, highlighting each instrument, which in itself is serious and accurate enough to help a young person actually recognize the instruments of a symphonic orchestra.

American radio funny-man hilariously describes the orchestra
The world famous Garrison Keillor gives a perspective to the orchestra in never before seen light. How many pieces of music are there that have the trombones sounding like cattle? The delightful music and commentary make for some of the funniest time you will remember for weeks to come. A must for fans, and a good buy no matter who you are. ... Read more

Album Description

We are pleased to announce our release of Pope John Paul II's first historical visit to America.Now everyone can enjoy over 4 hours of His Holiness' major sermons and talks from Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Des Moines, Chicago and Washington with beautiful versions of "Ave Maria'" and "The Lord's Prayer" captured on this digitally mastered 4-CD Box Set "From Rome To America"

This is a rare and priceless piece of American history offered along with an exclusive 8x10 photo of Pope John Paul II, ready for framing. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

An uplifting spiritual event
Listning to Pope John Paul II's words and then hearing the response form the public made the hairs on my arms stand up on end. It was inspiring to hear his words and to feel a sense of what it was like to be there when the Pope spoke to America for the first time in American history. I also enjoyed listning to "Ave Maria" and "The Lord's Prayer." This will be a keepsake in my family for many years to come. ... Read more