Amazon.com

Their remake of "Killing Me Softly" was the hit, but that's only the beginning of the story. A hip-hop trio whose talents reach out into the world of the pop song (Wyclef Jean is a fine guitar player, and Lauryn Hill's a heck of a singer), the Fugees are also all distinctive, inventive rappers--you find yourself waiting for each of them to take the next verse in turn. The beats are the familiar crossed-armed boom-bip, but the group's understated grooves and subtle effects lie low in the mix. Aside from two kicky covers of classics (the other is Marley's "No Woman, No Cry"), The Score'sfocus is on the stars' rhyming with the free-form grace of performance poets and showing that they've thought deeply about the issues they raise. --Douglas Wolk ... Read more

Reviews (60)

"It's Time To Settle The Score!"
What can I say? The Score by the Fugees was definitely their best effort. While the group soon split up and the members, with the exception of Lauryn, tried to capture the Fugees' formula with less success, The Score still stands the test of time. On this release, the Fugees matured from Blunted On Reality and became much more focused. The beats are interesting relying on nice drum and bass lines mixed with reggae, soul, and lots of hip-hop flavor. The lyrics are very good, and the group seems very confident and relaxed when it comes to the delivery. Check out the classic "Fu-Gee-La," the Diamond produced title track, and the posse cut "Cowboys" featuring members of the Outsidaz. And of course, the two cover tunes work. Lauryn proves she is a great singer on "Killing Me Softly" while the "No Woman, No Cry" cover adds a new twist to the classic Bob Marley song. The only low points with this album might be the skits which can get monotonous and stupid after a while. Otherwise, The Score definitely deserves a listen.

A 5 Mic classic according to the Source and Me
This one was a massive comercial sucess in 1996 here is the song
by song review of the Fugees score album.
2.How many Mics-Classic freestyle joint like for Supernat this is not as good as those versions but it is very tight 10/10
3.Ready are Not-One of my favorite rap songs 10/10
4.Zealots-Early 60s 10/10
5.The Beast-Great Produced Album this is tight 10/10
6.Fu Gee La-I was always a fan of the Fugees this tight 10/10
7.Family-They did great on this album 10/10
8.Killing me Softly-Hip Hop Soul classic 10/10
9.The Score-Carribean feel I did not no Pras was this tight 10
10.The Mask-This albums got it all rap-hip hop-raggae not his usual stuff and also Soul 10/10
11.Cowboys-this is pretty raw all of it MCs 10/10
12.No Women Cry-I guess a cover 10/10
13.Manifest-I love the Carribean feel to this album 10/10
16.Mista Mista-Accoustic Guitar pretty tight 10/10
This Album sounds great I have been sleeping.
Lyrics 10/10 Production 10/10 X Factor 10/10 Style 10/10 Voice10

Music 10/10 Innovative 10/10 Classic 10/10 Guest 10/10 Blends 10
Overall 100 This album sounds completely Masterpiece the Source
was good for giving the Fugees there respect they deserve this is a 5 Mic Classic wich is *****Classic

This Is Hip-Hop
"The Score" is one of those unique albums that can never be outdone. Wyclef Jean, Pras, and Lauryn Hill all work together in giving us this classic sophmore album. Guest appearences by John Forte(a member of the Refugee Family), Tha Outsidaz(Rah Digga, Young Zee, Pacewon), Diamond-D, and Omega all do well, but it's really the main trio that make this album great. Wyclef's crazy flow, Pras' laidback rhyming, and Lauryn's angellic voice bring a beautiful flava to this LP that no one else could've done. "How Many Mics" is an example of all three members rhyme skills, especially Pras' who spits, ("too many MC's not enough mics, exit your show like I exit the turnpike"). "Ready or Not" is one of my all time favorite songs, because of the cool beat and the memorable last lines of Wyclef Jean("I think not I'll send a letter to my friends, a born again hooligan only to be king again") and Lauryn's opening line("I play my enemies like a game of chess") and lastly Pras' opening("ready or not refugees taking over"). "Zealots" is a well made song in which Wyclef sings the hook and Lauryn teaches Hip-Hop physics over an amazing beat. But it is Pras who delivers the best lyrical verse("I compress sound sets with my rap DBX, then drop vocals on my 456MPEX, bring terror to the shop of horror, as you cry meamore, the phantom dies in the opera"). "The Beast" is a weirder song and not one of my favorites, though it is not to be skipped. "Fu-Gee-La" is another favorite of mine because of its Caribbean lyrics and beat, and amazing chrorus by Lauryn. "Family Business" is a sad song but another great one with guest rappers Omega and John Forte, rhyming over a frantic beat with a verse surprisingly by Pras(it's the only chorus he does on the whole album). "Killing Me Softly" is a solo song by Lauryn Hill who remakes the song with a Hip-Hop groove. "The Score" is quite simply a lyrical song, produced and guest featuring Diamond-D, the trio drop some of their best rhymes in between a scratched hook. "The Mask" is another good song, with a great chorus and verses. "Cowboys" is the gangsta western song featuring Tha Outsidaz. The mix of Carribean rhymes and hardcore rap is amazing and turns out good, even with the oh-lae-he chorus by Wyclef. "No Woman, No Cry" is another remake, this time of Bob Marley's classic song(Wyclef solo). "Outro(Manifest)" isn't an outro but another real lyrical song where you can actually hear the anger in the trio's voices. The first and best remix of "Fu-Gee-La" is the last great song on the album. The final remix of the song isn't very memorable and not one of my favorites. The final song "Mista, Mista" is very confusing. It's a sad song but you can't help laughing at the constant cussing through the whole song.

The main point is that "The Score" is one of the many classic rap albums of the 90's and was very groundbreaking, because it brought Hip-Hop to the entire world. If you like this album go pick up the trio's solo albums:

*Wyclef Jean- "The Carnival"
*Lauryn Hill- "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill"
*Pras- "Ghetto Supastar"
*Wyclef Jean- "Ecleftic: 2 Sides 2 A Book"
*Wyclef Jean- "Masquerade"
*Wyclef Jean- "The Preacher's Son"

The Fugees are broken up now, but they will always be remembered as one of the greatest and most creative rap group of all time.

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ONE OF THE BEST !
The Fugees are definitely the most complete group of all times. TLC, WuTang, etc all are real good groups, however The Fugees integrated every form of music into rap and made hiphop globally respected. Their themes and videos were the best of all times. The Score is really a street classic. From " Ready or not", cowboys, "the beast". Everything is tight. Lauryn is fascinating though. She really makes fugees what it all is. their breakup is a great loss to the enrichment of hiphop.

The Score [EXPLICIT LYRICS]
The Score [EXPLICIT LYRICS]~ The Fugees is avery good album with great fun and good lyrics. Hill is a good singer and the other guys prevent her from getting to cynical and boring which is her tendency otherwise. A very good album and one should buy it ... Read more

Amazon.com

KC and the Sunshine Band, led by Harry Wayne Casey, brought a bit of male bravado to the predominantly diva-led disco scene. KC and company incorporated a Caribbean feel to their music, with swelling--and staccato--horn parts and multilayered vocals. The repetition of the choruses of "Shake Your Booty" and "That's the Way (I Like It)" had every gold-chain wearing male on the dance floor singing along.While these hits, and "Get Down Tonight," are now disco cultural reference points, "Sound Your Funky Horn," a minor hit earlier in the band's career, has more of an island feel to it. The Best of KC and the Sunshine Band provides a fairly broad sampling of the Sunshine Band's music, including "Keep It Comin' Love," "I'm Your Boogie Man," and the tropical funk of "Boogie Shoes." --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (26)

All the KC Most People Need
KC & the Sunshine Band, for whatever reason, don't strike me as the kind of band with a massively devoted following. Most folks will probably just want to hear a good collection of their work. This is probably your best bet - containing all the hits (and several that weren't!) from the band. "Get Down Tonight", "That's the Way (I Like It)", "I'm Your Boogie Man", the ballad "Please Don't Go" and the late-period "Give It Up" get the most plays in my player, but the rest of the tracks probably won't disappoint. The inclusion of the early junku/disco tracks "Sound Your Funky Horn" and "Queen of Clubs" adds some needed variety. "Let's Go Rock and Roll" isn't exactly rock, and you'll start swearing you heard "Do You Wanna Go Party" just four or five songs ago - around this point, my interest starts to wane. The liner notes are notably lame for a Rhino Records release, but hey, just peruse 'em once and forget about 'em. Anyone interested in some KC should pick this up, listen to it once, then program around the tracks you're not crazy about. That's what CDs are all about, right?

Still Booty Shakin'
KC was a real guilty pleasure every time his songs got played on the radio, super hooky, catchy as hell and so easy to dance to. Like Motown, its amazing his best tunes can still pack a dance foor in seconds after 20+ years! KC's stuff has been repackaged many times but Rhino has done the best job if you looking for the hits. You get all the original single mixes and excellent liner notes.

My only (little) gripe is that the compilers should have included his 1978 cover of the 4 Tops "It's the Same Old Song" - the song didnt do so well nationwide (it barely scraped the Billboard Top 40) but it still got a lot of regional and dancefloor airplay. Other than that, this whole CD is a lot of fun.

Just excellent!!!!
KC and The Sunshine Band are represented very well, here. All of the songs are terrific and Rhino does their usual fine job of compiling a hit package. I think KC and The Sunshine Band are underrated and they were an important part of the disco/funk evolution. They are without a doubt, one of the funkiest disco bands, ever. This is highly recommended to anyone who likes good disco, with a funky flavor and R & B. I love it!!!

The Best of KC & the Sunshine Band [Rhino 1990]
The Best of KC & the Sunshine Band [Rhino 1990]~ KC & the Sunshine Band is a good collection of their best tracks. Their music is hypnotic with very good tracks and fun lyrics.

I like it
KC and the Sunshine Band were the most successful disco group of the 1970s. They produced a lot of fun records. The songs didn't have any serious messages, but they were had a lot of charm. This is just good time, get up ... and dance music. This CD contains all their big hits and some songs that weren't big hits, but should have been. I would recommend this CD to anybody who is a fan of disco. ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Soulful Songs And Stories Cooked Up On Essential Hits Set
This 30-song, one disc collection is Sam Cooke's most lovingly presented and essential single disc released to date. It builds on his 2LP "Man and His Music," itself a revelation when released in the mid-1980s. This set tops it due to remastered sound (this CD has a layer playable in Sony's SACD format), and R&B scholar/author Peter Guralnick's detailed liner notes. Guralnick, author of several books on Southern rock and soul, examines the roots of all 30 songs, performers backing and dueting with Cooke, his inspirations for writing and singing them.

This is important because Sam Cooke's songwriting and storytelling skills are as much his legacy as his Gospel music beginnings, his mysterious, untimely 1964 murder, and his influence on Steve Perry (whose "Lovin' Touchin', Squeezin" was a Cooke tribute of sorts), Rod Stewart (who claimed he listened only to Cooke records for two whole years as a teen), Terrence Trent D'Arby and a generation's rock and R&B singers.

Cooke's chart hits are here, except for the relatively minor "Soothe Me" and "Frankie & Johnny." You get his gentle, intricate vocal trills on his first singles for the Keen in the 1950s (1957's #1 "You Send Me," "Wonderful World," "Cupid"). You get his rethinks of country, blues, even pop standards ("Tennessee Waltz" becomes a gospel rave up; "Little Red Rooster" a slow churn blues with a teenage Billy Preston's extra cheesy organ, "Summertime" a vocal showcase with offbeat rhythm and guitar). Finally, you get Cooke's rollicking humor and detailed lyrics on his dance hits ("Shake," the dancers' garb and moves in "Twistin' the Night Away," the hip DJ requests in "Havin' A Party.")

Guralnick refers often to Cooke's phrasing, which found soul and poetry approximating daily speech. On his greatest artistic achievement, 1964's finale "A Change is Gonna Come," Cooke tops even himself. He takes Bob Dylan's lyrical challenge in "Blowin' In The Wind" (which Cooke admired for being written and performed as pop by whites) and, through hopeful words sung as near-weeping laments, he approximates the timbre and granduer of Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have A Dream" speech given less than a year before.

"Portrait" set is bookended with Cooke leading Gospel's legendary Soul Stirrers for two songs. They not only define soul's gospel roots but showed Cooke sang a great Bible story as easily as from a cha-cha crowded dance floor, highway prison road gang, or lonely room. For more, reach for his dark, mellow "Night Beat" or the "Man Who Invented Soul" multi-disc. Ultimately, "Portrait" underrates itself; it's more like a small, soulful slice-of=life gallery from one of music's seminal artists.

5 Star Magic from the best voice ever but read before buying
What can I say about one of the most inspiring/soothing singers of all time? Sam Cooke possessed the sweetest voice in soul, and his elegant vocal style inspired almost every singer worth his nickle. He was also a terrific songwriter, and the string of hits created prior to his death in 1964 was unrivaled.

I can hear this CD non-stop for days, weeks,.... It should be mandatory for all singers to listen to this release as it showcases a singer whose delivery was so elegant and did not have to go through vocal gymnastics to bring it home. It did not matter whether he was singing traditional pop, soul, gospel, or (you name it), as it all came back to Sam's voice and elegant delivery.

This collection has all the songs, including the indispensible "A Change Is Gonna Come". Sam's version continues to be THE definitive version and any collection that overlooks it should be banned. As you can imagine I give this my highest recommendation. Also worth noting this release has been remastered to blow away all previous efforts and unlike the previous single CD greatest hits collection, this one has an informative insert that tells us a little bit about the history of the songs.

NOTE: This state-of-the-art digital audio release titled is a magical 31-track greatest hits release that has been replaced the already amazing "The Man And His Music," a 28 greatest hits collection released in the 1980s. There is one downside to the CD as it is a hybrid with SACD capability, so that it will play in regular CD players and those with the SADC technology. The only problem lies in that, like other hybrid SACDs you cannot make a personal copy or grab any of the songs to put in a personal mix. For me that is a huge downside as I make lots of mixes to reflect different moods and favorite all time songs; notwithstanding if you just plan on listening to it and don't mind that you won't be able to pick and choose songs to make a mix, there is no better choice than this release.

During 2003 and now I've found myself listening to the new releases by Al Green and Ron Isley as well as this release, and I am reminded that new artists have it really hard as Sam and others raised the bar so high and so early that it makes it virtually impossible for anyone to make better sounding music. There are some out there who show much promise and I am always trying to support them, but Sam is Sam and God bless him.

OUTTA SIGHT!!!!
THIS IS A TERRIFIC ALBUM BY A TERRIFIC ARTIST. I LIKE EVERY SONG ON THIS ALBUM. IN FACT, AFTER HEARING THIS ALBUM MADE ME PURCHASE SOME OF THE SOUL STIRRERS GOSPEL MUSIC. I LOVE THIS ALBUM I LOVE SAM COOKE THIS IS A NICE SAM COOKE COMPILATION AND IT INCLUDES A LOT OF MY FAVORITES I WOULD RECOMMEND ANY SAM COOKE FAN TO PURCHASE THIS ALBUM I LOVE IT!!!!!!

Best Cooke collection so far
The treatment of the music of the definitive soul singer, Sam Cooke, during the CD-era, at least so far, has fallen far short of his contributions. Complicating the situation is the split ownership of his catalog. The now out-of-print "Man And His Music" was a decent compilation of Cooke's charted hits but was deservedly criticized for some poor mastering and resultant less-than-optimal sound quality. RCA/BMG released a much better sounding "best-of" a few years ago but by then the later Cooke tracks controlled by ABKCO were not made available for that piece, leaving it as a frustratingly unfinished career retrospective. This collection is from ABKCO and therefore contains those later recordings but fortunately and ironically, contains the earlier stuff, being licensed from RCA. With all this ownership infighting overcome, we finally get a truly high-quality, well-executed overview of the music of Sam Cooke. From a sampling of his seminal early sides with the Soul Stirrers up through his pop and smooth soul golden age on the charts in the mid 60's, this piece represents a "must-have" for any serious or casual CD collection. The generous 30 tracks in the best sound yet with many in stereo, the exceptions being tracks 1-3,5-7,9,10,15,30, is accompanied by an informative liner notes booklet with info on each of the included tracks. As a collector, due to their inane refusal to license anything they control to other willing CD producers, this reviewer bristles whenever seeing the ABKCO name, but credit must be given where credit is due. And here, Cooke's material gets the treatment it deserves. An absolute must.

A Perfect Single-Disc Portrait of Soul Music
James Brown may be the Godfather of Soul, but Sam Cooke created the genre--and no one has done it better since. His first charting single, "You Send Me," sold two million copies and was a No. 1 pop hit for three weeks in 1957. Cooke would go on to place 29 singles in the Top 40 (including three after his untimely death in 1964), and 22 of them are included on this collection.

For fans who have been lamenting the deletion of the 1986 collection THE MAN AND HIS MUSIC, this new anthology is welcome news indeed. Not only does PORTRAIT OF A LEGEND duplicate all but five of that earlier collection's tracks (including the poignant "A Change Is Gonna Come"), the disc is playable as a regular CD and as a Super Audio Compact Disc. [I don't have an SACD player, but the sound quality on my regualr CD player is nothing short of stunning!]

Fans who were hoping for a generous sampling of Cooke's work with the Soul Stirrers will be disappointed. [And the title which includes the dates 1951-1964 would certainly lead you to expect as much.] However, the only Soul Stirrer's track is the gorgeous "Jesus Gave Me Water," recorded during his first sessions with the group just two months after joining in 1951. {Every other track was recorded between 1956-1964.]

Another plus to this new collection is the informative 32-page booklet. Author Peter Guralnick (who is working on a biography of Cooke) includes an essay and insightful track-by-track commentary on each song. Recording session information is included for every track including dates, producer, and musicians used.

The album closes with an uncredited 32-second interview. The interviewer asks Cooke to hum eight bars to show the listeners what soul sounds like. After he's done, the interviewer states,
"Sam Cooke's yours; he'll never grow old." He's right. ESSENTIAL ... Read more

Album Description

"Comin' From Where I'm From" utilizes a copy-protection technology that allows the CD to play on nearly all standard playback devices, including CD players, DVD players, car stereos, boomboxes, PCs, Macs, Walkmans, and game consoles. Using the original disc, consumers can transfer this album to their personal computers. From their computer, consumers can also transfer the music to a secure portable device and burn three copies to CD-R. Mac users can transfer tracks to an iPod, but PC users can not transfer tracks to an iPod. ... Read more

Reviews (161)

I give it 4 1/2 stars, great CD
OK if your reading this your probably wondering if this CD is worth buying. Two words: Oh Yes! First of all if you are expecting to hear R&B/Rap as you hear in much diluted R&B today then look elsewhere. Because this set of songs, save a few, is all about love, mostly lost love. My favorite of the set so far is "Charlene"(I just noticed two of the songs have been named after women, and I dont know if any other artists has done that on an album), anyway, if you just listen to this song just imagine his situation as he singing about it you can feel his pain and where hes coming from. At one point as the song is fading out, he sings in an rugged almost tearful yet smooth voice "Sometimes I cry, Charlene if your listenin', could you call me? Cause my heart is aching without you, call me, see about me." When you hear him sing that line there that should convince you this man is for real if you havent already been convinced by hearing the title track. It makes me almost wonder if he really did have a relationship gone wrong with a woman named Charlene. 9 of the 12 tracks are about love, and like one other reviewer said, its not depressing to where you feel bad like after coming out of a sad movie, but when you are listenin to it you feel what hes saying at the moment. Buy it now you wont be dissapointed, unless your not a fan of good old R&B. This man satisfies both of the letters in R&B. Rhythm, and definitely blues.

Impressive!
Combining what's great about our past, and the progressions of today, Anthony Hamilton's debut does not disappoint. Conjuring images of Al Green, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke, Hamilton proves that he is a force to be reckoned with in his own right. In an age when "Booty Rhymes" rule, it's inspiring to hear a singer that sings from within, thus creating soul music. In addition "Coming Where I'm From" is exceptionally produced. On songs like "Charlene" and "Lucille", you can actually feel the emotion that Hamilton conveys for these women. His duet with Latanya Richardson as well as the title track, are stand-outs. If there is any draw back to the album, you may walk away feeling some experiment. Arista Records, has decided to unveil or unleash the new copy protected "Smart CD", which limits copying and sharing usage. The disc as side effect may not play on your CD player. It is an unfortunate risk that Arista, is asking you to take, however if the disc does work, it is a risk well worth it. This is a project well befitting the talented Mr. Hamilton.
Jivon Jackson

Another great Soulful album
This album was like a breathe of fresh air. 'My first love' was excellent, reminded me of fire & desire from rick james and teena marie, a very beautiful duet. 'Charlene' was a very personal track, I feel his pain from past experiences. And another stand out track is 'Since I seen't you', another great soulful ballad by mr. hamilton. This is album is very well produced, written and performed. He has the heart and drive of past soulful greats like the Dramatics, Stylistics, Barry White, you get the picture. This is a must have for the lover in you.

Much Needed Artist
I've listened to all types of music for years and I must say that Anthony Hamilton is a much needed sound to music today. He brings soul to today's music that many artist lack. He is just a raw, natural talent and it is so refreshing to hear him sing. His album is soothing and easy-going, but also has much power and soul. Thank you Anthony Hamilton for reviving soul music.

Hamilton Jazzes The Soul with the Funk of Soul like no other
Anthony Hamilton!!! His CD "Coming From Where I'm From" What can I say to describe him? Intriguingly jazzy, Soul. I heard the brotha on an awards show, I think, the BET Gospel Awards show earlier this year-maybe. Everything in my mind, my spirit, my body ceased momentarily and my soul was definitely taken, captivated like never before. Hamilton is the Kenny G of Soul.

I was like whooh! Who is this Brotha? Honey, he sings a gospel song in such a way that he takes one back in the day as thought they were birthed and lived in the day. The brother has that funky jazz that jazzes the blues in a sister's soul. Anthony has that Deep Down mesmerizing sensational stuff that a women wants
to experience and enjoy. Particularly if she has long awaited such emotional confessions and desires the earnest dedication of her significant other. Hamilton has that Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Eddie Levert funk that can put Georgia on your mind like Ray Charles.

I am dazzled with "My First Love" and "Coming From Where I'm From" and "I'm Messed Up" and "Charlene" and "Float" are elegantly inticing for lovemaking. Hamilton's joint is the Joint-the entire CD.

I like Cornbread, Fish & Collard Greens to because he tells this evidently attractive and desirable, succulent, yet too outward woman, about how she needs to gain control of herself and how he could rock her world. Yet with the tracks on this CD, he touches everybody even mothers with "Mamma Knew Love".

Charlene,the video-Man!, Hamilton is still feeling Charlene for him to get down in that video, pounding with every ounce of his soul-his emotions. Sister's want to know that a man will cry and release his spirit, mind, body and soul with such expressions.

Hamilton is, with great capability, Jones(ing) the women with the emotions and soul of his loving lyrics like no other. Any woman or man who is no greatly touched by "Coming From Where I'm From" has never known love. ... Read more

Amazon.com

India Arie seems comfortable in her own body. She told us as much on both "Video" and "Brown Skin" from her stunning debut album, Acoustic Soul, which celebrated the diversity of feminine beauty, self-acceptance, and spirituality. She addresses similar themes on her second outing, although much of her original soul-scouring fire is gone. While she still preaches self-empowerment, many of her lyrics veer toward the trite, and that's not where we expected to go on this Voyage to India. In fact, there are very few self-revelatory moments like the ones on Soul. Arie seems bent on journeying to the center of womankind's mind, rather than unearthing more of her own autobiography, casting herself as adviser to the disempowered. But that is not where Arie shines. When she strips her voice down to its unvarnished essence--leaving all the imperfections in the mix--she is a lithe, ethereal presence. She's capable of raising chills, as when she sings of a man who foretells his death on "Good Man." Or on "Complicated Man," where she lets her voice run ragged, brimming with raw emotion while describing her imperfect love. Despite some glibness, this is still a voyage worth taking. --Jaan Uhelszki ... Read more

Reviews (140)

I took the voyage to India and found it refreshing!!!
India.arie has done it again!!! If you are looking for really good, spiritual, and meaningful music then Voyage to India is definitely the cd for you. Just like her first cd, I was caught up by her voice, her lyrics, and her originality. Her first single, "Little Things" is a beautiful song but she has so much more to offer like "Talk to Her" which is a song that cries out for men to treat women with respect. "The Truth", "The One", and "Beautiful Surprise", are all deep love songs. I literally can not decide which is my favorite between "The Truth" and "The One". "Complicated Melody" is so different but so original and has a country flavor to it. She has a couple of songs on her cd that has a Sade-like appeal to them but it is still all India. "Good Man" is a sad song about a husband and father passing away and it is good as well. All of India's songs are about love, life and lessons learned. I am truly a fan of India.Arie and wish her nothing but the best. India stay the same and keep it original because that is what real music is about.

Call Me Insane, but I Expected More.
It's amazing what a few Grammy nominations can do. India.Arie's debut album of folk-laced soul didn't break any new ground, but it was an overall appealing mix of catchy tunes and positive messages that were a welcome alternative to the talk-show/men-bashing lyrics of her ghettoized peers. And even though she walked home empty-handed on Grammy night, her debut album, "Acoustic Soul," enjoyed robust multiplatinum sales. Expectations are naturally high, and I hoped that her followup "Voyage to India," would be a musical and lyrical step forward from her debut. While the album is thoroughly listenable from start to finish, "Voyage to India" just doesn't serve a platter filling enough to stick to your ribs. Arie has her heart in the right place, and her intentions are noble, but the truth remains that she's a passable lyricist, often resorting to "love yourself" cliches that become one-dimensional. And while the music is pleasing, the folkish, acoustic-based melodies and choruses seem a bit predictable. However, I really dug "Little Things," the sincerity of the love song "Beautiful Surprise," and "Get it Together." While "Voyage to India" is an okay album, it pales in comparison to better, superior albums we've heard in the last year from "Cookie" by MeShell Ndegeocello, the flawed yet fascinating "Unplugged" set from Lauryn Hill, and "How Do I" from Res. Ultimately, it's a "Voyage" that takes off promisingly without ever reaching its final destination.

Decent But Not Too Memorable
RnB/Soul singer, India Arie Simpson released her sophomore album in September 2002. Most sophomore albums by other neo-soul artists, such as D'Angelo and Macy Gray (note that I haven't heard either of these albums) were deemed by fans to have fallen to the dreaded sophomore slump so India Arie had a lot to prove. India Arie proved she had undeniable talent with her debut album, both lyrically and vocally and most fans tend to compare the two albums. On both, India Arie wrote or co-wrote all the songs and she writes about meaningful topics such as self-respect and communication in relationships. On her sophomore album, "Voyage To India", India Arie provides her wonderful lyrics and vocals in songs that seem to tell what many women are thinking of, rather than being self-reflective as she was on her debut.

India Arie starts her sophomore album off with a short intro, just over a minute in length, called "Growth" which states that the only thing that is constant in the world is change. It's a somewhat pointless intro, but the statement she makes is definitely true. The second track is an mid-tempo song called "Little Things". As expected by the title, this song talks about appreciating the little things in life such as a "call in the morning from my little sister singing me happy birthday". As with most of India Arie's songs, the lyrics are not complex but are beautiful in their simplicity. Next comes "Talk To Her", a somewhat preachy song about how to talk to a woman. India Arie instructs the listener to treat the woman with respect and "talk to her the way you want someone to talk to your mama". In other words, talk to her respectfully no matter what she's wearing ("It doesn't matter if she's wearing a miniskirt or a business suit"), a message that desperately needs to be heard in today's society. The song also talks about the importance of respect and communication in relationships.

Afterwards comes the mid-tempo "Slow Down", a debatable album highlight. The song speaks about taking life day by day and not rushing through everything. The lyrics are once again simple yet beautiful. It's about remembering that speed isn't always the best way to achieve your goals. Next comes the romantic "The Truth", with its lyrics seemingly half-spoken, half-sung (more like spoken to a tune). Nonetheless, a sweet, romantic song about what India Arie loves about her man. The next song, "Beautiful Surprise", has a similar theme about finding love when you least expect it. It was written by India Arie alone and really shows off her talent for songwriting. After comes a short interlude, "Healing" which talks briefly about releasing all sadness from you. Like most interludes however, it is not too memorable.

Subsequently come two songs about moving away from the pains of the past, "Get It Together" and "Headed in The Right Direction". "Get It Together" is another somewhat preachy song that talks about having to get it together to heal your body and heart. It is a beautiful song when you listen to it but in the grand scheme of things, it does not stand out. "Headed In The Right Direction" fares much better, probably because it is more upbeat however it is fairly short compared to the other songs on the album. After that comes "Can I Walk With You" is an album highlight that seems to talk about taking friendship to another level and it is probably my favourite song on the album. Then comes "The One", a very overused song title but this is probably one of the better songs of that title. Lyrically and vocally it is a unique (in a good way) song but it is also quite short.

Next comes "Complicated Melody" another romantic, metaphoric song that compares India's man to colours, numbers and songs. It sounds somewhat odd when you read the lyrics but India pulls it off well enough that it sounds nice. Otherwise, it adds little to the quality of the album. The song, while it sounds nice, is a little too full of metaphors and comparisons. Following this comes another interlude, "Gratitude" which is not much different from the other two. Then comes another highlight, "Good Man", another romantic kind of song but better then some of the others on the album. India's lyrics and vocals work so well together and with the beat as well. The second last track, "God Is Real" has beautiful lyrics but the beat and vocals sound too similar to other material on the album. Finally, there is the bonus track "Interested" which doesn't stand out at all compared to the other tracks. The verses are not very interesting and only the chorus really sounds great.

Overall Mark: 3/5

Although this is still a great album, "Voyage To India" does not have the same amount of truly memorable material that made India Arie's debut so good. The songs provide great messages but many of them sound too similar and lack anything to really distinguish one from the other. As a whole the album sounds great, but when you break it down, many of the songs sound like one long song with only slight changes to the beat and, of course, different lyrics. India Arie has undeniable talent but her album lacks the catchy tunes that made similar artists, like Jewel (similar in the fact that she writes meaningful lyrics rather then Britney Spears style pop), so memorable. The album definitely has some highlights but it mostly seems too similar to be memorable.

Headed In The Right Direction
I purchased India's first cd, "Acoustic Soul" upon hearing constant airplay of "Video" and am very contented with my purchase. Upon learning about India's second release "Voyage to India" I immediately ran to the store to purchase it, without hesitation. I was definitely surprised to learn that "Voyage" sounds nothing like the "Acoustic Soul" that I so fondly enjoyed. In light of this discovery, I will say this: Though I expected work that would match that of India's first effort, and was initially disappointed that it didn't, upon listening to the album a second and third time, I realized that this time around India has come close to mastering her gift. She has a way of delivering messages that come packaged in simplicity, while the content is unexpectedly meaningful and emotional. This is what I have come to appreciate with this second album. It is evident through her songs and delivery that she has grown as an artist, knows what is important and is quite self-possessed. As a result, though "Acoustic Soul" is an excellent first effort that should have earned her a grammy, "Voyage to India" is actually a better album in the sense that India.Arie has learned what it actually means to be an artist, a creator. This is most evident in songs like "Little Things" "The Truth" and "Complicated Melody" which happen to be my favorites. Despite having favorites, there are no songs that I dislike, and you can rest assured that a thoughtful message will be delivered on each track. I pray that India.Arie will continue her voyage and be generous enough to share her discoveries with us.

Took time, but it won me over
At first, I didn't like this album as much as ACOUSTIC SOUL. The lyrics seemed less complex and less passionate. It's also heavily produced.

But it wound up in the regular listening rotation because bottom line is -- it still has her heart. And I can feel that every time I listen to it.

When you listen to India Arie, it's not just one thing or another that you're getting out of the listening experience. It's not just the words or else the smooth feel, or else the guitar. It's a strong spirit that's more than the sum of its parts. No matter whether you like one song a little better than another or one album a little better than another... in the end, it still has that broad feel, that spiritual depth that sinks in and makes you a little better for listening.

If you liked ACOUSTIC SOUL, I'd buy this ... and prepare to give it a few listens before its spirit seaps in. It really adds another layer to the gifts of heart she gave us in the first album. But I'd still by the other one first! ... Read more

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As the lead female voice of family gospel band the Staple Singers, Mavis Staples has shown more than a little faith across four decades, using her voice as a powerful instrument in the battle for civil rights and the eternal struggle for salvation (as well as pop hits). Here, on her first CD of new material since 1993's Prince-produced The Voice, the 64-year-old Rock and Roll Hall of Famer seems relaxed. That's why acoustic treatments of tunes like "Step Into the Light" and the Blind Lemon Jefferson tribute "A Dying Man's Plea" sound so good wrapped around her warm honey-and-grits tones, with slide guitars and fiddles following the easy flow of her melodies. Nonetheless, there's a simmering intensity to her performances, though she eases for sweet recollections in the uplifting biography of her late father Roebuck, "Pop's Recipe." Yet Staples always remains strong enough to render the disc's overabundance of lite-funk arrangements irrelevant. --Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

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Produced by the infamous Dr. Dre with assistance from Mr. Suge Knight, Doggy Style was the first solo outing by Calvin Broadus a.k.a. Snoop Doggy Dog. Incorporating a straight gangsta vibe into the deep funk grooves pioneered by George Clinton and his Parliament-Funkadelic ensemble, Snoop and Dre dogmatically invent the "G-Funk" aesthetic. Espousing an irreverent dope, bitches, and guns mentality, Doggy Style garnered the Parental Advisory for explicit lyrics it sorely deserved. Still, Snoop's lazy-yet-acrobatic rap/drawl is distinctive and undeniably entertaining. With additional vocals from Tha Dogg Pound (Nate Dogg, Warren G, Kurupt, and Dat Nigger Daz), this disc is deceptively professional and musically quite slick. "Murder Was The Case" is practically an inner-city classic, while "Ain't No Fun" is another blunted, urban-rap anthem. Woof! --Mitch Myers ... Read more

Reviews (110)

a must have rap classic!
1. Bathtub - Umm... sort of pointless.... (4/10)    
2. G Funk Intro - Cool song. Dr.Dre makes an appearence in it. (9/10)    
3. Gin and Juice - Awesome song. Love it. (10/10)    
4. That Shiznit - Great beats (10/10)   
5. Lodi Dodi  - Not a big fan of this one. (2/10)  
6. Murder Was the Case (Death After Visualizing Eternity) - Awesome song. (10/10)    
7. Serial Killa - Great, but many better ones. (8.5/10)    
8. Who Am I? (What's My Name) ? - Awesome song. One of my favorites. (10/10)   
9. For All My N**** and B****** - Great track. (9/10)    
10. Ain't No Fun (If My Homies Can't Have None) - My favorite. This is an awesome song. (10/10)    
11. Doggy Dogg World - Great Snoop hit. (9/10)   
12. GZ and Hustlas - An okey track....(6/10)   
13. Pump Pump - Awesome. Love the beats. (10/10)

One of the Top Rap Albums Ever!
Every track on this CD is good. There is not ONE bad track to speak of, and that's a huge accomplishment by itself. This is the perfect complement to The Chronic. Both albums define the very nature of what G-Funk and rap are all about. It's produced by Dr. Dre, and his influence is seen in every track through incredibly irrestible beats (a la The Chronic). This CD has some of the best beats ever heard on a rap album, combined with incredible lyrics and Snoop's best style. Guest appearances from The Dogg Pound rappers are excellent, and this is by far Snoop's best rapping.

This CD CANNOT be compared to any other Snoop Dogg CD; it surpasses any of his other albums with ease. There are so many classics on this album ("Gin and Juice," "Murder Was the Case," "Ain't No Fun," "Tha Shiznit," etc.) and the others, though less played, are equally as good. If you liked The Chronic (in other words, if you like real rap with incredible beats and lyrics) then buy this album. It will not disappoint. This goes along perfectly with The Chronic and many debate which album is better. Either way, you cannot lose with this album: It is easily one of the best rap albums EVER.

give black people their own country
the black "race" is always complaining that they want to have their own everything such as colleges. i have an idea, america should take every blackie out of society and give them their own territory with their own government, schools, etc. this will be very amusing because their country would crumble within the first few days. and i would send letters to the taliban asking them to bomb the new and "much deserved" country after it crumbles to destroy the ashes and crumbled buildings that now lie there just to be sure that i won't have to hear this crappy music blasting and hear blackies pathetic cries of injustice and "White america owes me."

thank you

now die

3 and 1/2
I bought this album not too long ago, too young to hear it when it first came out (I was 8), but not too old to dislike it. Around 5 years after this album came out, it was deamed a classic, probably because it came out so long ago. There's some quality tracks here (G Funk Intro, Gz and Hustlas, Serial Killer, Ain't No Fun), but there's some garbage here too. If you like rap, you'll love this, but for me, this album was a little dissapointing. So if you're not the biggest rap fan, be prepared to be let down. Snoop Dogg's still the man though.

pretty good
this is the best of snoop right here. Ever since he left deathrow his music just aint as good. However he did very well on Dr. Dre 2001 & The Marshal Mather's Lp.

Oh well, thats just my opinion ... Read more

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Sade's brand of elegant pop/R&B owned the charts in the '80s, making the Nigerian/British chanteuse one of those artists whose very name becomes the adjective to describe their sound. After an eight-year layoff, Sade and her core band (and longtime producer Mike Pela) are back with a CD that is both a stunning reaffirmation of her artistry and a solid soulful collection. Perhaps the best thing that can be said about Lovers Rock is that it picks up where Sade left off, which means you will hear no cool beats or hot hired hands or hip-hop cameos. This is Sade music, and on the firstsingle, "By Your Side," she glides back into the spotlight on gentle,countryish, sparse wings--singing, once again, about love's power to redeem. Of course, Sade knows that love can stink: listen to the dub-riddim-tinged "Every Word" and cry tears of recognition. Decidedly female but utterly universal, grown up yet not hardened, Lovers Rock ranks as one of the best of the year, and marks the return of a true original. --AmyLinden ... Read more

Reviews (439)

Sade Adu still shines brightly; Sade, the group fades a bit
Again, as with the early CDs, Sade Adu comes forth as a complete woman, strong and supportive, yet vulnerable. As with the former collections, the strongest songs (IMHO) are grouped in front. With "By Your Side" and "Flow", she portrays strength in standing by her man, loving and supportive. "King of Sorrows" expresses deep sadness and yet there's no self-pity in this woman living in a real world of hurt. "Somebody Already Broke My Heart" expresses a deep past hurt with courage and hope as she ventures forth for the love she needs. These are emotional songs speaking to the women who experience these emotions and also to the men in their lives. Here is the appeal of Sade Adu and it's every bit as strong at the time the record was released as it was 15 years earlier when she first came into the music scene.

Another notable song is "The Sweetest Gift" which may be a lover's song, but also works as a mother's song. And of course, there is the title song, "Lovers Rock".

I do admire Sade Adu for including songs of social consciousness in her collections. "Slave Song" and "Immigrant" do not preach to us, but they portray past and present injustice.

Sade Adu's fans won't be disappointed by this set, but jazz fans will be. Her first three albums were distinguished by superior jazz work and by the way she gave the group space in which to perform. Stewart Matthewman's sax faded in LOVE DELUXE, but the group still had their chance to play some cool and smooth jazz in the final instrumental. Not so here. The percussion sounds like a drum machine and the keyboard and guitar are very subdued. I miss that distinctive jazz backing.

However, if you have other Sade CDs, you'll want this one; and if you don't have any yet, c'mon, get with it! This is a good enough one to start with!

She's done it again!
True, the voice sounds a little older and deeper, true, the saxophones that graced DIAMOND LIFE and PROMISE are gone, but Sade's trademark is still there: soft, sweet, elegant and romantic music, powered by her beautiful melodies and lifted by her unique, understated yet expressive vocals. Most of these songs are powered by a gentle, soft acoustic guitar rather than a sax and jazz drumming, but that gives LOVERS ROCK a warm, romantic quality - perfect for snuggling up in a comforter with a mug of hot cocoa on a cold winter's night. I've heard Sade's sound described as "aural comfort food," and I think that sums it up nicely. As in the past, Sade's lyrics aren't exactly Nobel Prize-winning poetry, but are lifted and given new meaning by her voice and her backing band. Favorite tracks: the title song, "King Of Sorrow," "All About Our Love," "Somebody Already Broke My Heart," and "Immigrant" (a simple yet moving song about the pain of racial prejudice).

hope is an agent in the world.!!!!
ACOUSTIC, LUSH, DECIDEDLY SPARSE AND BEAUTIFUL. SADE never disappoints especially here on LOVERS ROCK.The countryish opener of "by you side" which uses hope as its core, remember hope is an agent in this world of dismay and hunger for tenderness and truth;JUST as sure as the album opens with that sheer hope it closes with the same joy and openess. Each of SADE recordings shine and shift, but here there is a distinct sound. a change to a more cohesive nod to reggae gentle and perfect in delivery and content. IT IS POWERFUL in its vuneralbilty.SADE IS JUST SO COMPLETE AND TRUE. THIS BAND IS CONSISTENT. A MUST FOR THE MASSES. BEYOND WORDS.BRAVO.

Relaxing
I purchased Sade's Lover's rock album back in 2000-2001. I found her album to really satify my need to relax and think about situations I was going through. Her delightful voice combined with her soulful lyrics produces a serine enviorment for any true music lover. Lover's Rock is not much different from any other album she has previously released. Her songs are based on the same topics, love and relationships which I feel to be a good thing it shows consistency. Lover's Rock has proven for me to be the best song on the album, and it's also the the title for the album.Her hit single King of sorrow also display her talent and ability to touch her audience. I plan to have this album in my cd rotation for a long time.

The Rock That I Sing To....
A few months ago I bought Sade's ''By Your Side'' CD Single because I thought it was a awesome song that reminded me allot of the previous hit ''No Ordinary Love''. Well, what I didn't know is that there was a full and great album out there ''Lovers Rock'' that I didn't have. So on another occasion, I was browsing through contemporary R&B, Soul, Trip-Hop and I found ''Lovers Rock'' there.-- I was curious, so I HAD to get this.

And what I found was a excellent soulful album that has space for everything that keeps you calm and chilled-out. I think that this is Sade's best album to date, really great!. I hope she releases another great disk like this!.

My favorite track is the title track ''Lovers Rock'' which is a esque-portishead trip-hop track, with great production value and the chorus rocks!!!. Other great one's are ''By Your Side'', a deeply entrancing and sensual song with great lyrics (check out Shania Twain's ''From This Moment'' for a almost identical track.), ''Somebody Already Broke My Heart'', ''All About Our Love'' and ''It's Only Love That Gets You Through'' are nice songs to sleep to, very relaxing.

This a essential album that would satisfy any Sade, Dido, Massive Attack, Portishead and Sinead O'Connor fan. Excellent!. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!.

Enjoy! ... Read more

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As the title would lead to you to believe, these are the greatest hits from a group that had a fair share of hits in the late '60s and early '70s.Too pop savvy to be merely a funk band, and too damn funky to be just a rock band, Sly and his multicultural crew made intelligent party music that crossed boundaries and became AM radio staples. Included in this collection are smashes like "Dance to the Music", "M'lady", "Sing A Simple Song", "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Again)" and "Everybody is a Star".--Amy Linden ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Great CD! Makes you move and groove
This CD was on for 6.99, so I thought, "What the heck. It's the band who did Dance to the music." (I thought that's the only hit song they had). Then I put the CD in and the first thing I heard was "I want to Take you Higher." And I thought, "Sly and the Family Stone did this? Wow". It just got better with "Everyday People", "Hot Fun in the Summertime," "Thank you (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)" and "You can Make it if you Try." There's nice funk and groove musac (aka music, when it's funk you call it Musac). Has some slow songs too like "Everybody is a Star". Awesome CD. If you have no idea who Sly and the Family Stone is, get this CD, if you do know who Sly and the Family Stone, get this CD. DANCE TO THE MUSAC!

The band that made pop funky, and FUN...HOT FUN..
Anybody who was under, say 25 in 1969..and had a pulse, 'got' this, and really, really dug it. Every single track is a testament to how GOOD this band was. Hendrix and Sly (and of course Ritchie Havens...whose life and world all begin with a dream'; and advertiser's dream, that is) were the only "black cross-over" acts at Woodstock, and Sly, I think, outdid Hendrix. Back then that really counted. This CD will bring back the "hot fun in the summertime" - and as Cynthia says..."all the squares, "GO HOME!!"

Psychedelic funk at its best!
There was, and is, only one band like "Sly & the Family Stone". A group that put the "H" in high produced a slew of hits during the 70's. There was some major ones to follow the tracks gathered, but this "greatest" package, for the buck, is a "must-buy". The album version of "I Want to Take You Higher", presented here in all its glory,is a brilliant tour de force, combining R & B, pop, and funk with the masterful of Sly and company.

One word : FUNKEY!!!
You gotta love Sly. If you can put on this cd loud enough, and remain quiet, check your pulse! The grooves are so powerful, they define funk, and they make you wanna move! The first song just grabs you, and it doesn't let go until the last. Great grooves, great vocals. Now, I think we need to clarify. A reviewer said that Freddie invented slap bass lines. I think not. It was Larry Graham, even before getting into S&tFS. One of the first (if not the first) recording of slapped electric bass is "Thank You", a track included here. Now, get your afro wig, your plattform shoes, and dance to the music!

Everyday Star
Greatest Hits concluded the first phase of Sly and the Family Stone's career, neatly summing up their boisterous, politic-pop era. But the darkness was creeping in, as heard on the sarcastic "Thank You (Fallenme Be Mice Elf Agin)" and the resigned "Everybody is a Star." Sly's next move would be the mercurial There's a Riot Goin' On, and then his subsequent slippage. Greatest Hits is one of the few "best-of" packages which serves as a complete statement rather than the typical career supplement of most such collections. This stunning set covers a mere two years of recording and argues favorably for the group place alongside The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan. ... Read more

Reviews (53)

One of the great recordings of the century.
In his prime (c.1971-1982), Stevie Wonder produced a body of music that ranks among the most original, innovative and consistent ever created. As a composer, lyricist, drummer, keyboardist, harmonica virtuoso, producer and arranger, Stevie was the very epitome of the independent creative artist, and almost entirely self-sufficient at that. "Innervisions," along with 1972's magnificent "Talking Book," is arguably his finest hour. Nine extraordinary songs, with Stevie's finest set of lyrics to accompany his rich, intricate music and arrangements, display a true musical genius at his most intensely creative. "Innervisions" has been universally acclaimed as a landmark recording since it was released and it is easy to see why: there is nothing here short of excellent, and most of it is among Stevie's very best. And not only is the material virtually peerless, but Stevie's production was also unique--in addition to playing almost every instrument on the album, he was busy using synthesizers in ways no one else had ever imagined they could be used. If you buy only one Stevie Wonder record, let this be it.

Arguably Stevie's Best
A friend first got me into Stevie, and now I own what you might term the five essential albums - Music of my Mind, Talking Book, Innervisions, Fulfillingness, and Songs in the Key of Life. After that, let's be honest, he turned into a pile of poop, but boy were the 70s a good decade. Each album is a fantastic record, and Innervisions is perhaps the best. Personally I favour SITKOL, as it is more varied and simply bombards you with musical genius on all sides.

Yet Innervisions is the greatest of the albums Stevie produced when he was doing pretty much all the stuff himself. He plays virtually everything on this record - listen to Living For the City, and you'll be amazed that he's playing every instrument. Whereas SITKOL has a proper 'big band' feel, because he brought in lots of other musicians and created a real wall of sound studio feel, Innervisions remains intimate and personal. That's what gives it its charm.

Unquestionably, these are 9 great songs. Plain and simple. Golden Lady is one of my favourites, a gorgeous song. But Too High is a great opener, All Is Fair in Love is a suitably over the top love ballad, Don't You Worry is a brilliant funky number, and Misstra Know It All (spelt like that because he just wanted to, and about his accountant, apparently) is fantastic, especially the growling finale. Stevie is also the master of the outro, and some can last for several minutes. Don't You Worry and Misstra are ones to look out for here is you are a fan of the over indulgent fade out (as I am). But SITKOL really has the monopoly on outros, and if you're a real connosieur, that's the album for you - look out for As and Another Star in particular, though Isn't She Lovely, Black Man and Summer Soft also clock in impressive repeated choruses.

Stevie is an idiosyncratic musician. Listen to the six second pause on Visions, where he says 'everything must have an ending' before coming back with the next line - geddit?! That's what makes him appeal to me. He has more talent in his sunglasses than most popstars have in the combined body mass of them and their hundred-strong entourage. This is a great album, with immaculate instrumentalism, superb lyrics, that fantastic voice which can do seemingly anything, and funky, groovy, melodic tunes. You should buy this, and then move onto other Stevie terrority, according to taste.

Thank You Stevie
"Innervisions" quenches my musical thirst. At thirty years old, it is beyond categorization and is a stellar album on so many levels. It is a marvel of studio production. The music is outstanding and (with the exception of a few instruments) is all played by Stevie. It has so much depth, but is so well put together. I frequently pick up on little nuances I hadn't noticed before. The vocals are unbelievable. Stevie Wonder has a beautiful voice with an amazing range and great control. On "Innervisions" he shows that he knows just how to use it and how not to. It's something that you just don't hear from today's popular singers and that is a shame. What I think makes this album so phenomenal and separates it from so many others is the songwriting. So often great music lacks lyrical substance or vice versa. Such is not the case here. The content is insightful, spiritual, socially relevant and presented in a creative and coherent way. It all comes together in nine songs at around 45 minutes. Of all the great albums I have ever listened to this one is my absolute favorite. I would like to thank Stevie Wonder for giving the world this timeless musical treasure.

Stevie's Best
This is easily Stevie Wonder's best CD. Though his previous "breakout album" Talking Book did have some innovative tunes, to me it was hindered by a few overly sappy love songs. "Key of Life" is a great album, but isn't as concise. There is only one traditional love song on Innervisions ("All is Fair in Love" is a sad reflection on relationships, but certainly not a romantic ballad). Here's a track by track analysis

1) Too High: Jazzy cautionary tale about drug abuse and its consequences, but subtle enough not to be overtly preachy. It captures the feeling of an addict who exists only to "touch the sky" but never gets there. Outstanding drumming by Stevie (yes, he plays the DRUMS too!!).

2) Visions: Utterly stunning in its beauty. The acoustic guitar work is second to none.

3) Living for the City: The "epic" of the CD describes the tribulations of a man raised in poverty in the South only to find more poverty upon his migration to the city. Yeah, the interlude section is a little cheesy, but still effective and with great vocals as always.

4) Golden Lady: I love how this song keeps going up a key in the end, which signifies the yearning of the singer for his lady. What a great love song.

5) Higher Ground: Once again, outstanding drums and a very funky beat. Like most in my generation, I heard the RHCP cover first (which is a decent interpretation), but it didn't take long to me to realize that this is the definitive verision.

6) Jesus Children of America: Stevie boldly confronts religious fundamentalists, junkies, and even the listener, challenging all to "come clean," all while being backed by insistent gospel harmonies.

7) All is Fair in Love: Laced with agony and pain, Stevie teaches us all about the difficulties of a romantic relationship.

8) Don't You Worry Bout a Thing: A great song about being there to support a friend who is going through a transitional period. Very comforting.

9) Mista Know-It-All: Some think this song is a bash on President Nixon; others interpret it as a stern message against arrogant street hustlers who are looking to corrupt inner-city youth. However you interpret it, it is certainly an effective kiss-off and a creative way to end the album (as opposed to ending it with a sappy love song).

People who have only ever heard "Part Time Lover" may have a hard time accepting Stevie Wonder as a genuine artist, but trust me and the other reviewers, this CD is different. You will not regret buying it.

Visions of a Prime Stevie
Stevie Wonder was established as a major talent by 1973, with his previous two albums 'Music Of My Mind' and 'Talking Book' he had abandoned the shackles of Motowns pop-soul hit machine shackles to craft inventive funky and soulful albums in his own unique & distinctive style.

The 3rd album in this vein was 'Innervisions', which has to be one of the mans crowning achievements. 'Livin' For The City' still sounds titanic, an awesome number, as is 'Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing' and the opening 'Too High'. Not only was the mans music incredibly funky but he was now covering issues such as social ills and politics. The closing 'He's Mr Know-It-All' is an enjoyable piano-led groove, and with so many classic cuts on one album this in itself could run like a Best Of record. Theres a nice vibe that runs through this album and the production is real high quality.

This is his 3rd essential in a row, and you have to admire the work of Stevie Wonder what an incredible back catalogue this guy was able to create in the 70s. ... Read more

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Adding pop savvy to their soul-disco mix, Jamiroquai grabbed the attention of MTV and Top 40 radio and won a Grammy with this platinum-selling album, their third. It's a fine record, with warm keyboards, sweet strings, and irrepressible grooves grounding Jay Kay's sublime vocals and fueling the hits ("Virtual Insanity," "Cosmic Girl," the title track). That voice--elastic, jazzy--is the fire of the band, but immaculate guitar sounds, snappy backup vocals, and clever old-school soul samples (Eddie Harris on "Alright," Esther Phillips on "High Times") are the details that create perfection. Balancing the dance-ready, radio-friendly tracks are the ballads "Everyday" and "Spend a Lifetime," the reggae-styled "Drifting Along," and a couple of didjeridoo instrumentals. --Suzanne McElfresh ... Read more

Reviews (105)

Manifest Destiny: Jamiroquai show their true colors
Just when you thought there was a single band in the world not fueled by greed. On "Travelling Without Moving", Jamiroquai take their music to a new level: "Commercial". Meaning you've probably scene the video for "Virtual Insanity" countless times. Forget the sincerety and quality of the previous albums and prepare for cars, women and all the excesses that have preserved the longevity of bands like the Rolling Stones.

This effort encorporates one song from nearly every genre of black music. Disco, Reggae, Jungle to whiny "Boyz II Men" type ballads and a bit of rock-ish influence but very, very little in the way of Funk, Soul or Jazz from which the band won critical acclaim. The almost non-existant range of Jason Kay's songwriting and lyrical structure seems to remain.

Make no mistake, the album does have it's funky moments. "Do you Know Where You're Coming From?", the bonus track on the US lp, is a worthy drum n' bass tune. But if you suffer from insomnia let "Virtual Insanity", "Alright" and "Spend a Lifetime" be your cure. Several issues to which Jay would previously object are executed quite easily. It makes one wonder if Sony was the driving force behind this record.

This is not a fake plastic pop version of the band. In fact, it's a revelation. Jay Kay no longer parades as an eco-friendly man with a mission, but rather as himself. It shows us also the future of Jamiroquai's music as being less interesting as time goes. Thus, "Travelling" is deep in a shallow sort of way.

My Favorite of Jamiroquai's Work!
In my opinion, "Travelling Without Moving" is the best of jazz/funk/pop band, Jamiroquai's, work! Who can forget the infamous video for "Virtual Insanity" and the way you and your friends tried to figure out how they filmed it (even I was surprised by how simple the technique was)?!?

I was very impressed with Jamiroquai's music from the second I heard it. Having been a fan of similar music from the Brand New Heavies, Jamiroquai was a pleasant and welcomed surprise. It's unfortunate that it took three albums (along with a quirky video and lead singer) for the United States to take notice of this incredible band. Jay Kay's vocal abilities are wonderful. His voice can go from fun to loving to sensual very smoothly and effortlessly.

Needless to say, I quite enjoy this album!!!

Stand-out tracks:
Virtual Insanity
Cosmic Girl
Everyday
Alright
You Are My Love

If you want to hear some seriously good music and have a lot of fun while doing it, buy this CD!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The turning point
For us Jamiroquai fans who love the instrumental and creative side to the band, Travelling Without Moving is the album that begins a total descent into 'jazz-pop', that Jamiroquai, by the two latest albums have turned into. The album does deserve 3 stars due to its' obvious merits in terms of accessability. Virtual Insanity is the best song on the album, and one expects the album to develop depth and innovation wise, but it simply never occurs. One of the main reasons seems to be in the bands increased use of strings and guitars, rather than a greater range of horns and synths, which makes Jamiroquai's music less challenging and gives it an easy cuddly feel.
Overall the album is a collection of catchy songs, but with little experimentation, sadly unlike Space Cowboy and Emergency.

the best imitation of someone else's album
Ok, so Jamiroquai has a strong similarity to mid-seventies Stevie Wonder. I dont see anything wrong with that, Stevie Wonder has influenced many bands. I wont say Jamiroquai is very original like some reviewers say, but they are good at what they're doing. It was refreshing to have some uplifting sounds emerge out of mid-nineties Britain due to an array of good but dark and melancholic music like Tricky, Portishead, etc.

One could say that Jamiroquai's lead vocalist not only imitates Stevie Wonder's voice but his lyrical character, this is true. But hey, if you're going to imitate someone, Stevie is a great choice. Differences from Jamiroquai and Stevie is that the music more dance orientated, otherwise it would sound like a perfect follow up to Songs in the Key of Life (except that Jay Kay's voice is no match for Stevie's).

I admit, imitations are not good, but Jamiroquai has altered enough for me to excuse it and to realize it's just good music.

The poor man's Stevie Wonder!
Forget this guy and get the real Stevie Wonder. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Few will accuse JoJo of being a musical revolutionary--hers is a streetwise, modern R&B sound that owes a lot to Destiny's Child and a little to opposite-ends-of-the-genre artists Angie Stone and Aaliyah--but there is a freshness about her. This, on mulling it over, is a quality that's hard to miss when you're 13. Those who haven't ventured beyond the radio hit "Leave (Get Out)," though, will want to take this self-titled debut for a spin if only to be among the first to discover an artist who's figured out how to effectively blend innocence with attitude. It's not the lyrics but the delivery that grabs hold and gives way to compulsory head-bobbing: JoJo may not be "That Kinda Girl," as we learn three tracks in, but instead of putting her point across shyly, peppering the song with flirty vocal question marks, we half-expect her to tell us to step off. The same expert ferociousness fuels "Baby It's You," which embraces sincerity--love for all the right reasons--and power-kicks materialism to the curb. It's not always the case that you can judge a CD by its cover, but with JoJo there's no harm in projecting. Sulking from inside her plastic cover, the artist seems at once woebegone and willful, menacing and mopey. Pop scenesters will do well to keep watching. --Tammy La Gorce ... Read more

Reviews (531)

Crunk 2 def! Nothin but pure R&B.
I love this album! When I first bought it I thought it would be some R&B mix in with some pop, but man I was wrong. This album is straight up R&B and I'm lovin' it. This is one of my newest favorite cd along side Christina Milian's It's About Time. I love the opening track "Breezy" it's a great track. Makes you wanna go to the club and start dancing. Also her rendention of "Weak" is amazing. It really shows her vocal talents. The whole cd altogether is amazing. I'm in love with it. Her voice is incredible in each song. The whole cd has captured the purest of her talents in 14 tracks. I was even suprised to see 14 tracks, because a lot of artist put out at least 12 or 10. I love all the tracks, again. I can't stress this enough, you'll be happy for what you receive. She's not another pop star, but a great r&b songstress ready to hit the world. It's nothing but pure R&B for Jojo.

And the winner is....JoJo!!!
This CD is absolutley amazing. It's R&B with hints of pop and hip hop. It's great. These are my short song reviews just to give u a taste of the great JOJO album. Please support my gurl and put her where she belongs on top. You won't be dissapointed

Breezy- Hot up-tempo song.
Baby It's You-Didn't like at first. Its kool now
Not that Kinda Girl-cute independence song. Its great
The Happy Song-Beautiful and of course...happy
Homeboy- 1 of my favs. I like how it tells a story like Sk8er Boi by Averil Lavigne(though the songs sound nothing alike)
City Lights-I aint like at first. But now is OK
Leave (Get Out!)-I'm gonna leave this alone. I can go days...
Use My Shoulder- true to heart
Never Say Goodbye- Her voice is angelic in this ballad of love
Weak-I never heard the SWV version, but if it's anything like this then they had to be the bomb
Keep on Keepin'On-Inspirational
Sunshine-Bright song
Yes or No-Hot song, tyte beat and JoJo u SKAT GURL!!!
Fairytales- self explainatory

Good for the first few times.
I bought this cd after hearing and liking the song Leave (Get Out)on the radio. I listened through it a few times, and now its very dull. The only songs i can listen to now are keep pn keepin on and yes or no. Overall its an ok cd.

very talented for her age
Jojo is very talented for her age because she's only 13!Not only that,she already has a hit called Leave.Here's how I rate each track: 1.Breezy-4.5/5-I don't like this one alot.It's one of my faves. 2.Baby it's you-6/5-I love this one!Her second single and in the video,Bow Bow is in it. 3.Not that kinda girl-4/5-Not one of my faves. 4.The happy song-6/5-I heard on TRL that this song is her favorite.This one is tied with Baby it's you and Use my shoulder. 5.Homeboy-4/5-Nothing to say. 6.City lights-4/5-This track is tied with tracks 5 and 3. 7.Leave(Get out)-5/5-TOO OVERPLAYED!!Her first single. 8.Use my shoulder-6/5-I love this one too. 9.Never say goodbye-3.5/5-I'm not a big fan of slow songs that's why I gave this song 3.5/5. 10.Weak-4.5/5-One of my faves. 11.Keep on keepin on-5/5-I love this song. 12.Sunshine-4/5 13.Yes or no-5/5 14.Fairy tales-4/5 ANYWAY'S THAT IS MY REVEIW OF JOJO.IF YOU TAKE MY ADVICE BUY THIS CD.You won't be disapointed!

best cd ever made
(...) i am 12 and luv it. all my friend like it 2. and on the bus there is a radio and when leave comes on every one sings and every one i know that has this cd luvs it so bye it it is so worth the money.
AND IF ITS SO BAD THEN WHY IS SHE IN MAGAZINES LIKE TEEN PEOLPLE AND #1 ON TRL ?
BECAUSE SHES GOOD THATS WHY. ... Read more

Reviews (20)

One of the very few rich soulful voices left
Bill Medley with the baritone DEEP soulful , choir voice and Bobby singing tenor showed proof that when it comes to soul, you either got it, or you don't. Some of there less played songs are fabulous and would make ray charles proud. One is called "B side blues" which is a very deep , bluesy song by the righteous brothers and check out Bill Medley getting it on in the song "my darling clementine" yeah, you go Medley. I prefer bari voices over tenor so I favor Medley more. Saw the righteous brothers in concert 3 years ago, and they still sound great. The songs on here are the "best of" and proved it. Sounds alot better on cd than on those old scratchy 45s :)

Beware the mix.
Ok. If you like the Righteous Brothers, this is a very good collection of their works, but beware! The makers of this CD did not spend much money on making the sound work for modern stereo systems. The recordings have not been mixed to enhance their quality. There is hiss, and rather washed out bass and trebel. NO PUNCH! I know that these are old, analog recordings, but they can be cleaner. Also, I remember a more intense version of Unchained Melody, than the one that appears on this disc. Buy it for the songs, but not the quality.

They haven't lost the feelin' yet!
Born almost one month apart and in two different states, Bill Medley and the late Bobby Hatfield nevertheless blended their voices so well that they might as well have been brothers. Whether covering material by other songwriters and the once-brilliant (and now tragic figure Phil Spector) or performing their own songs, the Righteous Brothers harmonized so well that for a while in the early 1960s they were among the hottest acts in the pop music world, earning the nickname of "the Blue-Eyed Soul Duo."

While tame in comparison to today's musical scene (ranging from Eminem's angry hip-hop to Britney Spears' descent into Madonna-smooching, quickie-marriage-then-annulment irrelevancy), the Righteous Brothers were very popular, and some of their songs broke into the coveted 1,000,000-single selling stratosphere, starting with their 1963 hit "Little Latin Lupe Lu," with its pulsing backbeat and catchy hooks and alliterative lyrics. Even after the British Invasion of the 1960s and the splintering of pop/rock into a kaleidoscope of styles (disco, punk, heavy metal, rap, and electronic), Medley and Hatfield's songs and bluesy harmonizations remained popular enough that at least two songs on this "Best of..." collection were featured in such popular films as Top Gun and Ghost.

"Unchained Melody" and "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin' " are the songs this reviewer is most familiar with for the simple reason that Hollywood directors and music supervisors chose them as part of those two films' scores. It's hard to imagine Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore at that pottery wheel without the first song's unforgettable melody, or to shake off memories of Tom Cruise as the cocky F-14 pilot wooing Kelly McGillis to the strains of "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'." Nevertheless, the other eight songs are worth a listen, including the Medley-Hatfield-written "My Babe" and the duo's warm and reflective cover of Hoagy Carmichael's "Georgia On My Mind."

"Unchained Melody: The Best of Righteous Brothers" is a very pleasant album, even though its running time is not much over a half-hour. It is a musical time capsule to a seemingly more innocent musical (and historical) era -- check out that cover photo, featuring Bill and Bobby when they looked like members of a college glee club stopping by for a cup of coffee and a friendly chat. Nevertheless, many a young couple listened to these songs while making out...and making memories that this compilation might trigger off.

A great collection of their biggest hits in stereo
It is true that these recordings do not sound the best but that is because of the way they were recorded and the CD does come from the stereo master tapes which are noisy. Those notes aside this contains their biggest hits for Philles and Verve, a few of their top 40 hits which didn't chart as high as the songs you hear the most on the radio, and the original version of "Little Latin Lupe Lu" which was a huge hit for Mitch Ryder and The Detroit Wheels. You do get the original versions on this 12 song disc with no liner notes obviously, there are no re-recordings on this disc at all, unlike the CDs on Curb which the bulk of the recordings on those discs are re-recordings. For Rock and Roll Heaven on a budget CD, try and find the now out of print CD "Rock and Roll Heaven" on CEMA Special Products, and for their earliest material, get the out of print CD entitled "The Moonglow Years," but for the songs that made Bill Medley and the late, great Bobby Hatfield in the superstars they became as a duo, this is the disc to get.

I need help!!
Hello, I'm a big fan of the righteous brothers. and I am trying to find a fanmail address of them, so I could write to them. Or at least the one that is left. Anyway, if someone knows of a website that has their fanmail address, please get back to me. thank you ... Read more

Amazon.com

A good, inexpensive single-disc compilation of Rundgren singles may not be what the world's been waiting for, but it's a fine thing nonetheless. Largely avoiding the big pretensions of many of his post-Something/Anything? albums, this record distills 15 years of releases into a hits-just-keep-on-coming set which makes sense of the sensibility that produced the bemusedly soulful "Hello It's Me," the straightforwardly sweet "Dream Goes On Forever," and the outright goofy "Bang the Drum All Day." --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Fairly Good Compilation
As many Todd Rundgren fans know it is very difficult to make a BEST OF or GREATEST HITS album on all of Todd's music. As far as this one goes it is a decent start for people who are just getting interested in Rundgren's great wide variety of music. It contains all of his hits including "We Gotta Get You A Woman", "I Saw The Light", "Hello Its Me", "Couldn't I Just Tell You", "Can We Still Be Friends", and the never ending hit "Bang The Drum All Day". All of these songs are classics in the Rundgren mold, but I really wish there were some more songs from A Wizard, A True Star and Todd. All in all though it does contain some Utopia songs icluding the excellent rocker "Love In Action" from the album Ooops Wrong Planet. Todd Rundgren's major hits are all here making it an excellent addition to any music fans collection, but buyers beware of the last track with Bobby Womack called "The Want Of A Nail".

Great for the casual fan
For over three decades, Todd Rundgren has been one of the highest quality pop-rockers out there, Not many artists last that long, let alone have music that stands the test of thime. Todd's music more than stands the test of time - it's an infinite number of times better than the stuff that has been flooding the mainstream in recent years. To not love this guy's music is the ultimate sin! Okay, enough talk, let's get down to business. Read on for my review of The Very Best Of Todd Rundgren.

PROS:
-If you're a casual Todd Rundgren fan, and you like the songs of his that get played on the radio on a regular basis, this is the compilation for you. All his big hits are here, from the deep and meaningful early seventies tunes Hello Its Me and I Saw The Light, to the much more pop-oriented and keyboard-heavy eighties pop-rocker, Bang The Drum All Day.
-The compilation truly is a "best of" and not a "greatest hits", because it relies on a number of excellent songs that were never popular in any way.
-The album features tracks from Todd's Utopia days.
-The liner notes are very nice. They contain info on Todd's career, original release dates (to the month) for albums and singles.

CONS:
-The major problem with this compilation is its run time. It doesn't fill the eighty minutes you can fit on a compact disc. This is sad, because Todd has so many songs that could have been used to fill the time, and ultimately make the compilation more complete.
-As another review stated, the liner notes (while good) could have been better. I don't like it when an artist disses his or her own music.

OVERALL:
Minor flaws aside, this is an excellent compilation for any casual fan on Todd Rundgren. If you're just a casual fan, don't get a pricey, multi-disc anthology - this will do just fine.

Great for the bewildered fan
I owned and loved all of Todd Rundgren's albums until he formed Utopia and stepped off into outer space. I still stand by the two Runt albums, "Something/Anything," "A Wizard a True Star" and (especially) "Todd" as some of the most brilliant, creative pop-rock ever produced. If you like Todd Rundgren, before you buy this best-of, buy all of those. You also might want to get a couple of other winners from a little later in his career, "Faithful" and "Hermit of Mink Hollow." But after all those, you might want to get this, because it's the best way to get great tracks like "Real Man," "Love is the Answer," "Something to Fall Back On," and "Want of a Nail," without having to expose yourself to the maddeningly tedious side of Rundgren's music, his explorations into generic transcendentalism, accompanied by endless screaming guitar and synthesizer solos, with zero evidence of the humor and soul he shows at his best. None of that music is represented here, luckily. You can enjoy "Real Man" without ever having to listen to "A Treatise on Cosmic Fire," and that's the best favor anyone could do for this gifted, but sometimes self-indulgent, artist.

Can we still be friends?
Can we still be friends? is quite simply one of the most amazingly beautiful and moving and poignant songs this reviewer has ever had the good fortune and blessing to hear.

Good Starter, could have used a couple more tracks
This is a good starter CD for anyone who is learning about Todd's music, but it barely scratches the surface about who Todd is (and thats hard to explain because he kept trying to re-invent himself every LP during his 70's prime) Rhino has a few other 1-CD budget comps of Todds stuff but they are very skimpy - get this one instead to see if you like him or not. (I think you will)

My only gripe is the liner notes which someone should have re-edited, Todd complains a lot about his early music (which I adored).

All his well known "hits" are here, but I would have loved to also have had "Sometimes I Dont Know What To Feel", "Time Heals" and the underrated "Parallel Lines" from his last great CD, "Nearly Human". ... Read more

Album Description

Asian exclusive limited edition pressing of her sophomorealbum includes one bonus track, 'Catch 22', along with abonus CD sized spiral bound 40 page 'Dear Diary' note padthat's housed together with the CD in a special slipcase.Enhanced with photo ogallery and lyrics page. 15 tracks inall. 2002. ... Read more

Reviews (489)

It's not just about the pink hair anymore.
Sure, she may have caught your eye with her pink hair and fresh lyrics, but this CD offers something even more. Missundaztood is Pink's clear departure from typical music today. As she stated in an interview, she's really laying herself out on a line here. It's dangerous, but sometimes that's what it takes to succeed. Well, Pink, lucky for you - it worked!!!

Pink comes clean on tracks like "Missundaztood" (self-explicable) and the heart-wrenching "Family Portrait", about kids stuck in the middle of a divorce. This is Pink's real life story - when she wrote the song she played it to each of her parents and broke their hearts *sigh*. Other highlights are the determined "18 Wheeler", the sassy "Respect", and the rockin' number "Numb". By singling these ones out I am by no means putting down the rest of the CD - notice I haven't even included tracks 3, 4, and 5, which are all singles.

This multi-faceted album starts out fast and mellows out to allow Pink's honesty some leeway, and the CD ends just as great as it started. It's clear-cut and rockin' smooth, with a little less edge than her debut "Can't Take Me Home". That's not a bad thing, just notes the direction in which her style is leaning as she matures. Her image has also changed a little - but while her name no longer applies to her hair (pink, white, purple, black - whatever) it doesn't seem to matter anymore, Pink is all about the music. Just buy this CD and you'll see what I mean, then maybe you'll understand her. Great CD for Pink fans, or curious converts-in-the-making. For lack of a better word - THIS CD ROCKS!!!

Pink's BEST Album!
I was really amazed when I listened to
this cd. None of the songs are similar! There are songs from
rocking numb to the blues of Misery. I have listened to this cd
for a year and I haven't got bored! And here are ratings for each song (1-10).

Get the party started: 9.5/10 Awesome Party song, good lyrics, makes u wanna move...
18 wheeler: 10/10 one of my favorites, bridge is great
missundaztood: 10/10 soft and simple and... just soo Great!
dear diary: 9.5/10: this is quite nice and catchy!
Eventually 10-/10 best slow song, far, far, far away from boring!
Numb: 9/10 Í didn't like this at firs, but it's quite nice and ROCKING!
Just like a pill: 10+/10 perfect! Best pink song! Tough lyrics, really catchy!
Family portrait: 9/10 good ballad, P!nk gets emotional...
Misery: 9.5/10 Steven Tyler is soo good in this! ...and P!nk of course. Nice blues...
Respect: 8/10 Fast, powerful, but not my favorite from the cd.
Don't let me get me 10/10 Really, really good, quite rocking, I never get bored on this!
Gone to California 7.5/10 It's nice, but too slow for me.
Lonely girl 10/10 One of my favs, great duet with Linda Perry, great chorus, great everything..
My vietnam 9/10 I like this one, nice guitarr solo in the end
Catch 22 (bonus) 9.5/10 and nice end...

...not bad...4 sum1 who disses pop & is herself a pop artist
i love this CD. I bought it mainly for Just Like A Pill and found that most of the songs on her appeal to me. The beats and sounds of this make for great party music.

i dont get why she's classified as a pop artist tho...some of the music sounds poppy, but not completely...shes more alt/punk or pop/punk...

good CD....that wraps it up

this is the sound for her!
The first album was cute but this one is better. The sound she had for this album seems to fit her better. My favorite is "My Vietnam" and "Family Portrait". "Don't Let me get me" is close to home for me. This is my anthem. Her future albums should sound a lot like this one.

Pretty good.
This album is 100% better than her first one. This one has better tracks such as 'family Portrait' that is personal and lovely. 'Get the party started' is incredibly catchy and a great dance song. 'R.E.S.P.E.C.T' is a really cool song that has a good beat about it. I love all the songs on P!nk's albuma nd think that she is an talented singer that just does not care about what other people think about her!!! I think that her voice is.... fab!!! I am so happy she was discovered as a artist because i would hate to think of her as a undiscovered talent that only sings at talent shows and in her bedroom!! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A misunderstood and underappreciated national treasure
One of this country's most renowned singers is also one of the most misunderstood. And no, this is not a cheesy segway into her great version of "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood." Nina Simone was never as popular as she should have been due her strength of refusal to be a puppet for neither record company executives, racism, and even the audience's refusal to support a talent who refused to be pegged as either solely a jazz, soul, blues, gospel, standards, or Broadway artist. Her story in a way is similar to Tina Turner's in that she eventually got fed up and felt she needed to leave the US to make the most of her life and not to suffer some of the hardships/prejudices that some would like to sweep under the rug for people.

But what about the music? Well one listen to this remastered 2 CD collection will give any fan or future convert an overview of a versatile treasure who could sing the most tender and elegant of songs and immediately display her anger and frustration, especially when it came to issues surrounding the Civil Rights Movement. The common denominator that I found in hearing all these treasures was a certain elegance, soulfulness, and pride that left do doubt about her feelings regarding any song she was singing. On the other hand, she never resorted to the histrionics of other singers and both her pain and joy were tempered and best appreciated by listening very carefully to the way she uses silence as much as her voice to interpret any given song.

It's amazing that Simone sounds equally good in both studio productions and live performances, and this collection is peppered with many of both. In a nutshell, I think that this is a must have collection and that with the exception of a few covers towards the end of the second CD (Here Comes The Sun and Rich Girl), is perfect. Since I was not around during her most productive period, I am not sure if any of her essential songs are missing, so if you've been are a hard-core fan, consult the song list to make sure that none of your favorites are missing.

Although not relevant to this review, I think that those who love some of the artists thoughtlessly clumped as "neo-soul" artists, owe themselves the pleasure of listening to some of the masters to get a better un understanding and perspective to the music that they listen to. I am amazed by how great treasures like Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, Etta James, and Stevie Wonder (just to name a few) still sound fresher than much of what is hailed as the cream of the crop these days. If for example, you were one of the millions that thought that Usher's latest CD was good, give the masters a listen and you may find that it would not sound odd to burn a mix that may have Prince, Lena Horne, Van Hunt, Nina Simone, Seal, and ______ (fill in with your favorite(s)) sitting side by side and the result would be more cohesive than those alleged best of compilations that records companies love to release. One listen to "Mississippi Goddam" and you may never be the same. Nina Simone died in the South of France in 2003, but her music makes her sound more alive than many of the lesser singers who self-pen themselves as "divas." Simone may have been misunderstood but with time we are all catching up to all the singers who matter and she stands at the front of that line.

Masterful
Fantastic compilation. However, I was very upset that my favorite Nina Simone song was excluded, the wonderful "Wild is the Wind". Why that song is not in her anthology is beyond my understanding.

Astonishing
Nina Simone. This collection of her work might just be the best 2 disk compilation of music ever made. There is not a song on here that can be called anything but outstanding. Ms. Simone makes even the most standard of torch songs huanting and compleatly new... she takes classic blues ideal and makes them complex works of classical philosophy....

as a guy raised on indie rock and folk nina simone early on became and important break from the norm. It is impossible for anyone to not like her.... i just cant see how there could be a single human alive that would not appriciate this collection of her work in their library..... FOR THE BETTERMENT OF HUMAN TASTE PLEASE BUY THIS!!!!!

good
This woman sings and you believe every word she is singing. She sings from her heart. She sings deep and from her gut. I feel transformed into a dark smoky lounge room when she sings. I really like her even though she sounds so sad when she sings.

Social activist's career neatly summarized
Young, gifted and black, Nina Simone had a lot of things she needed to get off her chest. Racial conflict, social inequality, political aversion - the passionate subject matter of her songs is as gritty as the voice that sings them. This anthology gathers a collection of material from a variety of labels and demonstrates Simone's two-sided mentality; namely, that of musician and poet. Guided by a subjective introspection, her songs dive head first into a political pathos with an unapologetic disregard for sweetness and simplicity. Their messages are harsh and candid, brutally confrontational; their titles are explicit labels of what issues are contained inside ("I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free"; "Black Is The Color Of My True Love's Hair"; "Strange Fruit").

But that's only half the appeal. Simone's vocal delivery - often unfathomably overcooked - produces a dark, smoky and undulating quality to the proceedings that, curiously, travels further than the material often permits. The blues-cum-gospel musical arrangements are mostly uncluttered to lend a more engaged sound as Simone protests, dismays, and wrestles to establish her communal identity in the foreground, and tinkers away brazenly on piano in the background.

Yet her delivery is just as convincing in her love songs. "I Loves You, Porgy", the album's opening track, adopts a relaxed, almost sleepy, disposition, and whose bittersweet content is perfectly reflected in Simone's beseeching voice: "Don't let him take me/don't let him handle me/and drive me mad." In addition, her talents also extended to good humor, as some of the live recordings reveal; her ability to make the audience laugh through on-stage banter is quite moving. Ultimately, Nina Simone left this earth with a much clearer chest. This compilation stows her lifetime's worth of encumbrance. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Badu and her large turban appeared out of nowhere in early 1997, on a murmuring, romantic album that trod the median between old-school soul and contemporary electronic R&B. Badu's songs, especially the hit "On & On" and the catchy "Certainly," recall Sade in their polished, subtle sexiness. Badu almost never raises her voice--save the occasional "ooh-wee!" exultation--but she skillfully uses repetition and chanting to empower her words. Later portraying a beautiful swamp queen, she was one of the only good things about the movie Blues Brothers 2000. --Steve Knopper ... Read more

Reviews (83)

My Personal Favorite Album
Erykah Badu is a very gifted & talented singer, songwriter and actress. Her soothing blends of old-school jazz & soul influences create an amazing backdrop of seductive beats, and a distinctive vocal style. With a musical approach that contains highly mature lyrics, Badu scats her way through an album of masterpieces.

From the opening "Rimshot Intro" all the way to the closing "Rimshot Outro", Badu offers us an in depth look into her wonderful life filled with poetic visions and respected insights. "On & On" is a treasure, as is the hip-hop influenced "Apple Tree". "Otherside of the Game" is silky smooth and my personal favorite track "Next Lifetime" is a tale of reincarnated love.

Though some found "Afro" humarious, it carried a very distinct message, that Badu plays nobodys fool. Other sure fire favorites include "Certainly", "Four Leaf Clover", "Drama" and "Sometimes".

The lyrical content varies from track to track, and its nice to hear Badu's unique style of blended music put together onto one terrific album. She is definetly gifted and I hope that all her releases leave me as happy as this one in the future.

Good Sleepytime Music...
Odd as it sounds, I really enjoy listening to this album when I'm sleepy. It lets me relax and eventually fall dead asleep. The rhythm and music is just so soothing and relaxing. This definatly isn't driving music if that's what you're looking for. Though some of the songs on this album sound the same, I give Erykah Badu credit because she was truley an influence in modern day r&b and soul, thus paving the way for such artists as Angie Stone and Macy Gray. She is definatly an interesting figure in the music industry, known for her body jewlery and hair raps (I remember hearing Billy Crystal commenting at the Academy Awards on her infamous hair wrap: "They finally found the last missing Oscar. It was found under Erykah Badu's wrap." LOL) Hit songs include "On & On", "Appletree" and one of my favorites, "Certainly." Another song I also enjoy is the catchy, "4 Leaf Clover" as well as the "Intro" and "Outro." "Next Lifetime" I also remember hearing on the radio and is catchy as well. So, if you're interested in modern Soul/R&B that you can relax to (Whether it be at dinner or going to bed) this CD is reccomended.

Next lifetime
This is one of the best debuts ever. She put her foot in this one along with her other cds. She created a new field in R&B with her new sound. Her album can fit any mood and make you feel like a glass of wine and just relax.It starts off with the mind moving (Rimshot) and flows all the way through with hits like Otherside of the game, Sometimes, No love and maymore. This is one Cd that I can listen 2 all the way through with out pause or fast forward. She hit a home run with this one . If you like this one you will love Momma's Gun and fall in love with her latest cd Worldwide Underground its hot along with her concert.

how cynical can erykah badu be?
i love badu's voice, i love the music, but i cannot stomach how her lyrics convey such cynicism and bitterness. listening to "lifetime" makes me utterly depressed that this woman in her lyrics cannot hope that she can get the man she wants in her present lifetime, perhaps a bit later than sooner. the lyrics in "certainly" give me the impression that badu deliberately preaches that alienation is her life script. has she gone through horrible relationships which reflect in her lyrics? again, i love her voice; billie holiday's sensuality comes to mind when i listen to this CD. the music is amazing; jazzy, soulful, smooth, and entralling. i'm not saying that erykah should sing about all things hunky-dory, but enough with the cynicism.

A cooled debut...
Erykah Badu was part of that neo-soul movement from the mid to late 90s that were trying to make REAL R&B rather than all the bad boy hip hop kinda mess that most acts were making. 'Baduism' is a real cool debut, a nice collection of chilled, jazzy numbers about love & spiritualism etc. The main song here is 'On & On', the big single that I personally can play over and over. But there's a lot of other good stuff here, the production is inventive and Badu has a nice style. 'Next Lifetime' is a deep & meaningful song with a lot of truth. All the melodies here are real nice and the album is likely to stay in your hifi for a long time. Well Recommended for those in need of some intelligent R&B. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Kool and Funky Wins The Race On This Greatest Hits CD
THE greatest hits CD to own from one of the 80s top hitmakers. Never as groundbreaking as Michael Jackson or Prince, or as flamboyant as George Clinton or Earth, Wind, & Fire, Kool & The Gang earned a steady stream of Top 10 hits throughout the decade that, heard together, indicates how quietly prevalent their sound was.

Never as popular as the comparable Ohio Players at their mid-70s peak, Kool & The Gang with producer Eumir Deodato crafted a funk/R&B/pop formula that clicked literally as the clock struck midnight to begin the 80s. They hit equally with funkier tunes and lush ballads, many with one-word titles: "Fresh," "Misled," "Cherish," "Joanna," "Tonight," and the cliched #1 hit "Celebration" (refreshed little by a house remix).

You also hear the group's bass-heavy, influential and heavily rap-sampled early hits like "Funky Stuff," "Hollywood Swinging," and the "Pulp Fiction"-featured "Jungle Boogie." Together, these songs form nearly 15 years of hitmaking that, despite personnel changes that ultimately sunk the group, stands with the best in modern classic R&B. Recommended.

All the Hits!!!
I knew Kool and the Gang was an awesome band. I grew up listening to them. But I never realize the impact that they had on modern music until I got this collection. Just hearing the songs (hits) back to back, made me respect their work even more. In a time, where R&B artists actually wrote, produced, and played their own music, what set Kool and the Gang apart from others is they had alot of crossover hits. But they never lost their funkness or koolness. Get this collection and learn to love Kool and the Gang all over again.

You're Right...ALMOST the Greatest Hits
This thumping, soulful collection of one of the greatest pop/dance and R&B/Rock bands that exploded out of Harlem and took the disco craze by storm in the 70s' and 80s' is almost complete. It includes all of their songs from the funk intro era of the late 70s' to the more pop/rock mixed and synthesized dance hits they made in the 80s'...except for 'Stone Love'! How could they leave that out? There are other collections made by tons of companies that feature all of these songs plus 'Stone Love' and others that are missing, plus several remixes and liner notes. If this is your collection though, its perfect sounding and a good edition.

Almost "The Very Best of...
Overall, this is a very good compilation that should satisfy most listeners. However, if they really want to hear just how diverse and talented this band was, they should have included the classic, "Summer Madness" It was (and still is) a mind trip of massive Jazz/Funk/and R&B proportions. Any true Funk Aficionado should hunt for this song and give it a listen.
Also, Where is the disco era's "Open Sesame" ? The horns on this cut are ree-diculous, The nasty bass line propels this song like a freight train, and the soaring vocal harmonies are not to be missed.

A full tilt boggie ride!
This collection by Cool and the Gang will turn your everyday living room into a funky disco tech. Immediately, as my wife and I were jamming out to tracks like Fresh, Misled, and Take It To the Top,we both were transported back to the time when roller skating on Saturday nights was so cool and so fun. This collection of hits by Cool and the Gang is a full tilt boggie ride for those of us who still love the way disco makes us move and feel. Treat yourself and buy this funky collection of hits. You won't be sorry. Enjoy! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Where Off the Wall was pretty much straight good times, Thriller introduced dread into Michael Jackson's solo work. By 1995's HIStory, this element curdled into overwhelming self-regard and out-of-touchness, but here it's bracing. While Thriller offers its share of cute ("The Girl Is Mine," a duet with Paul McCartney that was the album's first single; "P.Y.T."), the most memorable cuts remain "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," all of which meld musical imagination and worried-mind lyrics.

There's also the title track, which takes a cue from Parliament's concept pieces in employing Vincent Price to warn that nonfunky forces will "terrorize y'all's neighborhood." Thriller, of course, continues to battle with the Eagles' first greatest-hits package for the title of biggest-selling U.S. long-player ever. Bonus material on this edition includes "Someone in the Dark," from Jackson's E.T. children's album, and a Quincy Jones interview in which the producer cites "My Sharona" as the inspiration for "Beat It"--and, even better, the real-life Billie Jean's claim that Michael was "the father of one of her twins." --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (126)

5++ stars...
I give Michael Jackson's Thriller FIVE stars and I don't care for the title track, Billie Jean or Beat It (all which were world-wide hits). The album really opened the door for Michael's solo career thanks to, in part, the 25th Anniversary of Motown and the video for Thriller. At that time very innovated!!

I enjoy this album in large part because of The Girl Is Mine, Human Nature, P.Y.T and the Lady in My Life...all very R&B soulful tracks.

On the remastered versions includes behind the scenes (so to speak) with Quincy interview and a home demo for Billie Jean. As a fan of Michael Jackson-and I assure many fans agree...that this was a wonderful move by Michael and Sony. Rare tracks without going underground! :-)

Included tracks on the remastered version of Thriller are...
Someone in the Dark...track for the ET Storybook...really rare to hear. Nice slow track.

Billie Jean home demo...what can we say? a work in progress...a real treat, even for those of us who are not a fan of the track!! :-)

Voice over session from Thriller-including the never heard before 2nd verse. With Vincent Price...another wonderful treat.

and a song called Carousel...a pleasant song but I am glad that if a song had to been omitted the first time around, this song was a good choice to leave out compared to the other tracks on the album. It's another rare track if you don't get bootlegs from the underground

All in all, you can't go wrong with this cd, even if you have the first version cd because the extras and the remastered version of the original songs are well worth the money!!

What A Thrill
Thriller has been a household word for almost twenty years now. The mere mention of it conjures up images of invisible footprints, Michael and gang dancing to Beat It, the huge Thriller video, and Michael's showstopping performance on the Motown 25 television special. With no less than seven hit singles, this has become the biggest seller of all time, so much so that this album has been mentioned on the cover of the Guinness Book Of World Records. With this release, Michael Jackson and Thriller have become a phenomenon.

However, you when you take away all of the awards, music videos, and tabloid stories, you are left with the music. The special edition release is a chance to listen to the music with fresh ears. The remastering is a quantum leap over the original CD release, possibly because the original CD release was rushed out. Everything sounds a lot crisper, particularly the percussion and horns. Beat It sounds absolutely majestic in this new version and the most improved song of all.

The bonus tracks are a major treat. Someone In The Dark from the ET storybook is one of the lovliest songs he's ever done. The Billie Jean demo is obviously a work in progress but is interesting. The Billie Jean demo raises the question of whether or not there are other demos and outtakes around. They would be fascinating to listen to. The Vincent Price Thriller rap is hilarious and includes the missing 2nd verse (can you dig it?). Carousel, a Michael Sambello cut is okay but having it on the original album might have disrupted the impact of the original.

The front cover of the CD package sports a stunning cover of Michael with a baby tiger. With all of Michael's subsequent appearance changes, this photo's impact is particularly striking. It's almost as if the Michael that came out with Thriller doesn't exist anymore. With this album, he was not yet named "the King of Pop" but he was probably one of the most recognized and beloved person on this planet.

Buy this CD and rediscover the Thrill.

Genius!
Theres no question that this was overhyped. It doesn't matter. It deserves to be. One thing though I would like to say is that, even though this is a perfect album, I find albums like Dangerous, Bad, History and Blood On The Dancefloor to be better.

I do think this was a better follow up to Off The Wall.

Michael Jackson, the biggest selling recording artist in history, proves himself with the biggest selling album in history.

The best tracks are Wanna Be Startin Somethin, Baby Be Mine, Girl Is Mine, Billie Jean, Beat It, Human Nature and PYT!

Songs like Lady In My Life shows that he can sing beautiful ballads. The title song, "thriller" gets annoying so i skip that track often.

Michael Jackson is 100% innocent!

Visit my site: www.mjacksononline.tripod.com

Thriller [Bonus Tracks] [ORIGINAL RECORDING REMASTERED] [EXT
Thriller [Bonus Tracks] [ORIGINAL RECORDING REMASTERED] [EXTRA TRACKS]~ Michael Jackson is simply put it stupendous with many memorable tracks, i.e., beat it, thriller to name a few. It is the best selling album of all time and when one listens to it one knows quickly why.

60 million copies sold, the biggest selling album of all tim
60X platinum. Need we say more? ... Read more

Amazon.com

In the path of enormously popular collections of number one singles by Elvis and the Beatles comes this crammed (seconds shy of the 80-minute mark) disc from another pop-culture icon, Diana Ross & the Supremes. 14 Diana Ross/Supremes tracks appear in some of their most vivid sound ever, while the post-Ross Supremes get their due with "Stoned Love." Ross’ Hollywood years make for the weakest music here ("Touch Me in the Morning," "Endless Love"), but disco smashes "Upside Down," "I’m Coming Out," and "The Boss" prove as smart, canny, and enduring as Supremes 45s like "You Keep Me Hangin’ On" and "Reflections." The contemporary, yet already dated, remix of "Hangin’ On" at album’s end suggests, in fact, that Ross might make one more dance-floor comeback if paired with the right behind-the-scenes team. Basement Jaxx, anyone? --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (67)

Supremely Amazing, Supremely Different
Looking to start your Diana Ross and The Supremes collection? This is THE CD to do it with. Already got the hits? Well, you need this too, because the versions are different, and better than ever!

This collection is amazing and worth every penny. Unlike other compilations that have been remastered, the first 15 songs on this compilation have been REMIXED from their original 3, 8, and 16 multi-track session tapes! For those who don't know, remastering and remixing are very different. Now the songs are crystal clear, have longer fades, and the mixes are a vast improvement. They sound like they were recorded yesterday!

Another reviewer inaccurately wrote that the versions between older compilations are indistinguishable, but he is so wrong. The differences are like night and day. I guarantee it!

Harry Weinger, Andrew Skurow, Jeff Moskow and Suha Gur did an incredible job on this compilation. They must be fans because the proof is in the results. I like their past compilations on Diana Ross (The Motown Anthology, diana - Deluxe Edition, To Love Again), and the Supremes (DR&S Anthology, The '70s Anthology, Rodgers And Hart), but this time, they've outdone themselves. Thank you guys, and keep up the great work!

This collection is wonderful! It includes the best #1 hits, and a few that were #1 on dance charts, AC charts, R&B charts, and regional charts. They even mention other number ones that wouldn't fit on the single disc and TELL YOU where you can find them!

Finally, the Almighty remix is incredible. It has club hit written all over it. These guys have done the best remixes on Cher, Elton John and JLo.

Again, this is the perfect set to to have. You won't be disappointed! Buy it now!

NEW AND OLD, YET STILL A CLASSIC
This collection is fabulous, and here's why:
1. This collection is strictly the number ones (Pop, R&B, AC and Dance). If you want just one collection in a neat package, this is it.

2. The songs are newly mixed for clarity and many songs have extended fades. The songs actually sound better than any other collection out there, and not slightly, the differences are truly amazing. One cannot hear the difference on a streaming download, the proof is in the purchase.

3. For those purists who want original mixes, or perhaps more hits than exist here, there are MANY Supremes collections currently available: The Ultimate Collection (Mono masters), Anthology (Stereo masters on 2 CD sets for DR&S, 70s Supremes and Diana solo), a box set, and countless others.

4. Some people are giving this CD less than 5 stars because they want the original albums (there are over 30). I don't think this CD deserves to be penalized this way. Besides, Motown's new Hip-O select line will surely re-introduce several of these albums in the near future, I look forward to it.

Bottom line: Buy this CD, it's well worth every penny...and what a great price!

The New Motown Is To Blame
First of all, let me say that if nothing else the cover is beautiful and the pictures were enjoyable. I'm a young woman, however the songs that were released on this album are the same songs that I have always indenifed with the Supremes and have therefore been on compilation after compilation. Where are the previously unreleased tracks? As a buyer, this is the last time I will be sucker to nice packaging & promotion by the likes of Motown. Give us the gems that haven't seen the light of day and it would be nice to keep the ones that are already known in tact! Some of this material was downright butchered.

The new mixes are Supreme! BUT --
Tracks 1 thru 14 on this CD are amazing. Track 15 is not as good as the original. Track 24 is fantastic (the new dance remix!)

BUTT - What about tracks 16 thru 23 - the Diana solo #1's???

These are unfortunately BADLY REMASTERED. "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" is not the wonderful mono single mix that appears on "The Motown Anthology" or even the stereo single mix from "Motown Year-By-Year: 1970". It is a murky, muddled mess that sounds like it was culled from one of the old 80s CDs.

"Touch Me In The Morning" is - criminally - the early fade rather than the sublime long fade (3:52) that first appeared on "All The Great Hits" and was mixed and remastered by Paul Elmore.

"I'm Coming Out" is slightly SPED UP! It is actually noticeable upon listening. The best mix of the single mix is to be found on the "Disco Years: Vol. 4", remastered by the guru Bill Inglot. And for the best remastered single mix of "Upside Down", you must get "Billboard #1 Dance Hits: 1980", also remastered by Bill Inglot!

Ultimately, while most of the new 1960s Supremes mixes are exciting and pleasing on the ear, the Diana Ross solo mixes on this CD are shoddy. The Diva deserves better!

Diana Ross and the Supremes the #1's
I buy every every Diana Ross and the Supremes Package because Holland Dozier Holland produced the greatest songs of the 1960s.The Supremese remain tyhe best charting group in American history. 19 top ten hits including 12 number one hits in just eight years.The HDH team is the greatest American-born composers of the Rock Era., and maybe their race is the cause of them never getting grammys. All together HDH produced and wrote 12 number 1 and 27 top ten hits in four years. Only Lennon and McCartney surpass them. Each song is memorable and delicious. The remix of "You Keep Me Hangin'On" is worth buying the disc by itself. I liked some of the new re-mixes of the other songs. Diana's music was an addied bonus. Imagine what could be done with other songs by the Supremes if remixed with some verve and nerve? Each song is good,it is too bad that there were not more re-mixes. They are Supreme angels of 1960s and 1970s Rock and Soul. They just keep me and all their other loyal fans hanging on for the next re-issue. These sisters were aand are the paragons of glamour and good taste. Nobody will be unhappy with this package. The Diana Ross song are classy anbd remind us that before BET African Americans could be romantic and funky and en vogue without looking, dressing, and singing like self-hating stereotypes of demimondain in black-face. The showman ship and dedication to excellence with always made new fans for these girls from the Brewster Projects. They will never be replaced given the current crop of performers with no respect for themselve or their race. ... Read more