Amazon.com

DJ Shadow, a.k.a. Josh Davis, could be credited with bringing newfound introspection to the gloating sounds of hip-hop. Condensed with urban oscillations and scatological beats, Endtroducing shutters with eclectic samples and aural montages that reach beyond the constraints of hip-hop style. Enhancing the mix with fundamentals of rock, soul, funk, ambient, and jazz, the modern fusions fail to go unnoticed, even by the casual listener. While most of the tracks are compiled by layering samples from vinyl treasures found in used-record bins, the production quality of the mosaic is unmatched. Darkened melodies carry throughout the album with its eye on the end of the tunnel. The narration samples come from numerous sources and keep the listener involved and waiting for resolution. With a message as fragmentary as an overheard conversation, Endtroducing conveys no apparent conclusion, but begs the mind, body, and soul for some rewind. --Lucas Hilbert ... Read more

Reviews (159)

DJ Shadow is the Postmodern artist
I first go this album in 96; I was still in high school and didn't know much about sampling, beat production, etc. I thought it was one of the most amazing things I'd ever heard. Now, as a senior in college with more musical experience under my belt, I can still say this is one of the best albums I own. DJ Shadow revolutionized the way I and many people thought about sampling. As he takes a record from his insanely deep crates, he doesn't simply loop a catchy cut a la Puffy, he manipulates and recontextualizes these sounds into something completely his own. Like his track "Organ Donor," where he uses a sample of a church organ and turns it into a beat. Shadow in my opinion is the epitome of the postmodern musical artist: taking what's already out there in the world we live in and breathing new life into it. I highly recommend this to any electronic or hip hop fans. Oh, and by the way I heard he has a new album coming out soon; he's on MCA now, so his access to production equipment is gonna be insane this time. I'm expecting a truely remarkable album.

Wow! DJ Shadow's a genius!
I bought this album a few days ago on my 13th birthday because I liked "Building Steam With A Grain Of Salt" and "Organ Donor". At first I didn't like it because a lot of it I found boring. It also made me angry that the Organ Donor song is only 2 minutes in lenght on mine! (The one I listened to on the internet was over 4 minutes long)I put it in the next day and I got it. It may not be the Orbital, Fatboy Slim type stuff that I usually listen to but it isn't supposed to be. I got it in the Dance/Electronica section of the local record store...so it is a bit misleading. Dance? No way. It's very different and extremely hard to classify. I would say...Trip-Hop/Jazz/Electronica/Hip Hop/Soul.

So overall:

PROS:
Very moving
Nicely mellow
Great variation of songs
Often funny

CONS:
Seems kind of short
Some filler "tracks" like 6 and "Why Hip-Hop Sucks in '96" which are somewhat annoying.
Organ Donor is WAY too short!

Best tracks:
Building Steam
Stem/Long Stem
Changeling
Midnight in a Perfect World
Organ Donor

-Also I have the "Mo Wax" label, and it says "Mu Wax" on the back in really small print when it should say "Mo Wax"!

Producing one of the best albums ever
From the opening sample of "Building Steam With a Grain of Salt" where a voice is heard saying "Producing..." you know you are listening to an outstanding piece of work. In order to better understand this, you have to position yourself at the time this album came out.

You have to realize Trip Hop was already in full fledge: Massive Attack and Portishead had already come out with their own thing, but DJ Shadow came with a different proposal in 1996 when he produced 'Endtroducing...'. Through the magic of samples, he blended in a way many have tried to copy, yet no one yet matched, genres such as rock, soul, funk, ambient, and jazz, into a final product that transcends time. If you need further proof of that, think how long it's been since this album came out (1996) as you are reading this, sit back, listen to it and be amazed, as so many have been amazed to this day.

After listening to 'Endtroducing...' almost daily for three weeks now, turning back and thinking of acts such as Fatboy Slim almost feels awkward, considering his sample-based 'Better Living Through Chemistry' came out almost a full year after Shadow's debut. Granted that everyone has a place in music, DJ Shadow's genius with sampling work simply is above and beyond, making this not only his breakthrough, but also one of the best albums ever.

Other favorite tracks: "Changeling", "Untitled" and the grandieuse "Mutual Slump". If you want to take a dip into an evolved form of his work, check out his side project, U.N.K.L.E., in particular 'Psyence Fiction'.

A shadow of himself
A couple years back i became interested in underground hip hop and turntablism. My first, and best purchase, was DJ Shadows Endtroducing. Nary a day goes by that I do not find myself listening to this album. The way he mixes and blends the songs together puts Shadow at the top of his game on this record. Where this album excels is in its ability to not only drag you into the world that Shadow has produced but takes you through the mind of one the most talented individuals in all of music. If you enjoy music, do yourself a favor and buy this album. You will never find another like it, as it creates a constant state of euphoria, as the beats and samples are blended together in such a way that it is almost impossible to describe.in my top 10 albums of all time.

Excellent work
Dj shadow has proved that he is one of the greatest artists ever. With such diverse tracks and complex beats, Endtroducing will be something to look back on from years to come. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When the Red Hot Chili Peppers first appeared smeared in neon body paint with socks dangling precariously from their wieners, even the most faithful funk-metal convert couldn't have conceived they would be around some 20 years later, carrying on in much the same fashion. Despite a long history of tragedies and personnel upheavals, the California quartet's eighth album is mostly business as usual--and business, as usual, is quite good. The title track, "By the Way," is a powerful, bruised piece of slap-bass and intermediary white-boy rapping. "Universally Speaking" pays sweaty, soulful tribute to singer Anthony Kiedis's hometown of Detroit. And "Lemon Trees on Mercury" sounds eerily like it could have been lifted from 1984's Freaky Styley. The band's reliable eclectic side, meanwhile, surfaces on the Latin-flavored "Cabron" and moody "Venice Queen." But the biggest surprise is "Tear," a masterful homage to the Beach Boys that suggests the Chili Peppers' perpetual state of arrested development may someday lift.--Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Reviews (610)

STILL RED HOT
This disc was a very pleasant suprise. The Peppers have grown in their musical capabilities. If you are looking for a nice alternative to today's uniform standard of rock, pick this up. Below I have rated each song from one star to five stars.

1. By the Way - ****, this song has an awesome baseline and a catchy chorus.

2. Universally Speaking - ****, this is sort of mellow and has some interesting lyrics.

3. This is the Place - ***, this song is sort of reminescent of Under the Bridge, which was on Blood Sugar Sex Magik

4. Dosed - ****, this has beautiful lyrics and singing.

5. Don't Forget Me - ***, this song was kind of boring until it picked up.

6. The Zephyr Song - *****, this has a good beat, good lyrics, and awesome delivery.

7. Can't Stop - *****, this has some good guitar riffs and a catchy beat.

8. I Could Die For You - ***, this is a pretty good love ballad.

9. Midnight - ***, this song has an interesting opening that progresses into a futuristic-type sounding song about what can happen at night.

10. Throw Away Your Television - ***, this has a cool drumbeat, but lacks in more interesting lyrics.

11. Cabron - *****, this has a very Latin beat and some exotic guitar riffs. It would be very good for listening to while on the road.

12. Tear - ****, this song is also very mellow and has good lyrics.

13. On Mercury - *****, this has a nice fast beat with really great lyrics.

14. Minor Thing - ****, this song has great lyrics and good vocals. It sort of reminds you of By the Way.

15. Warm Tape - ****, this has interesting production and sort of out there lyrics, but it's pretty good.

16. Venice Queen - ****, This starts out slowly with some mellow production and lyrics, but it picks up with some awesome acoustic guitar.

Would i know it was the Red Hots?
first off, unlike some other reviewers here, im not gonna say Californication is the Best cd ever, i own all the Red Hot Chili Peppers albums, and started out with the first two, "Red Hot Chili Peppers", and "Freaky Styley".

As a cd, this album isn't bad, but the thing is, it doesn't seem like a chili peppers album. Their first album was pure funk, and maybe a little too pure to its form. Gradually they slowed their tunes down, "Blood sugar Sex Magik" landing perfectly in the Middle. However, i Still love their earlier albums much better. These were great funk/rock albums, and their covers where amazing.

The nice thing about "One Hot Minute" and "Californication" was that they still had many heavy funk songs, about half. While "by the way" and "can't stop" are great funk tunes on this album, it lacks a little of the pure energy.

I would not know this was a chili peppers album if i wasn't told, and Anthony's voice wasn't so distinctive. Flea and John just don't show off their amazing skills. Hopefully, like Rancid, if the Red Hots make another album, they will revert to their origins, a "Freaky Styley 2".

Still, buy it, its better than any pop out now!

Smooth, Melodical Bliss
In this astounding CD by RHCP they really take it down a notch. They deliver a smoother, slower, more in touch album. The songs are very emotionally packed. It has a certain melancholy sound to it. There are a few of their more trademark rap/hard rock songs but for the most part, expect that melancholy sound I was talking about. They have some really good songs, my top 3 being:

Dosed- A slower more heartfelt song
Can't Stop- One of their fast paced rap/rock sounds
I Could Die for You- Very melancholy with good voice overs

funk? yeah right!
this cd is freakin' slow and boring, its perfect to put a baby to sleep. why! why! anthony did you have to change your style of music you bum! i liked you better with long blonde hair and funkier u fool!!!!!!!

ho hum
By the Way see's the Chili Peppers mature into a full blown pop rock band but it remains a hit and miss affair. The album starts off with the fiery funk rock of "By the way" before mellowing out into beatlesque pop harmonies and light orchestration. Unfortunately the album never regains the same energy it began with. Of the 16 tracks some work very well such as "The Zephyr song" and the amazing closer "Venice Queen". Others such as "Cant Stop" and "Throw away your television" are just downright annoying. Why does keidis insist on rhyming up to 8 lines in a row? Some of his lyrics are quite awful and really bring down the songs. By the way makes for a very good summer album, but not something i would take on a desert island. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

GREAT BEGINNING SAD ENDING!
Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam, guilty pleasure of the middle 80's scene, she was the queen of Freestyle by that time, her music was around every club, and her style will remain in many people minds. Her sounds were extremely danceable, although some people thought that her voice was a little bit squirky and anoying, it fitted just great to the type of music she wanted to approach, even her hit ballad "All Cried Out" a bittersweet melody with amazing lyrics, that will be covered later by many, fitted her just great, but undoubtly her greatest achievment was dance music, "Head To Toe", "Lost In Emotion", where #1's the same year and make everybody love this, sadly she became lost in more pop oriented tunes with the next albums, saving only "Let The Beat Hit Em" that it's truly a comeback to the dance music scene, but too late, the magic was lost and we should point to "Little Jackie Wants To Be A Star" as guilty for throwing Lisa's career to oblivion, but if you forget that and concentrate on the early materials you will find an artist that surface out of the bunch, because they were talented and had a new flavor to offer to the public.

Take it Home
The queen of Latin Hip-hop soul, Lisa Lisa shines on this set of big eighties pop hits with her crew Cult Jam. The songs for the most part are all upbeat dance gems that are very influential (ask Jennifer Lopez or even Janet Jackson for the matter) and full of great beats. The set really hits is stride with ahead of their time early tracks like "Can You Feel The Beat" and "I Wonder If I Take You Home" which prove that the Latin grooves can make great dance music and are brightly vivid songs about young love. These tracks make some of the best pop around now very seem lacking. Big hits like "Head To Toe" and the sweet "Lost In Emotion" is excellent modern mid eighties pop productions with a little soul influence in the vocals. Pure magic on CD these songs are. Prom classic "All Cried Out" is a lot more innocent on here than the over produced Allure version ever could try to be. "Someone To Love Me For Me" is very beautiful. "Let The Beat Hit "Em" is a powerful club hit from the likes of Clivilles and Cole. Basically the rest of the set leads astray with the lame R&B of "Something About Love" and an unnecessary Full Force feature "U Never Knew How Good U Had It". The set is excellent but the weak songs drag it down ("Little Jackie..." is iffy pop, but cute), but I think we can credit Full Force with blessing us with this set of dance gems that are as good now as they were in the mid eighties.

1985- THE YEAR Lisa and her Cult Jam came out
True Lisa Lisa& Cult Jam fans know that Full Force produced the group. Everyone loves how they brought serious flava to the 80's
Lisa and Full Force did a great Job on "Someone to Love me For Me" Full Force was great, and Lisa added that special touch!!!!!
The cult jam added their good beats, and together they became Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam...often featuring Full Force
I like "This is Cult Jam" it was original, it was fun, and it really showed how cult jam played part in the group.
"I wonder if I take You Home" was their first hit
next it was "Can You Feel the Beat" "All cried out" and"Behind My eyes"
On their 1987 album.... I like "Playing with fire" "A fool is born everyday" "Lost in Emotion" and "Head to Toe" very good
songs....
I forogt what album but "Little Jackie wants to be a star" is another good one!!!!
Who could forget...Someone to Love me for me
the duet with full force...very good!!!!!!
i like the part when lisa says " if your in love with someone, make sure they love you for who you are, and not for the material things that surround you" and full force says afterwards" enough said"
they kept it real during the 80's.
1991'S lET THE bEAT hIT EM
on their "Straight out of hell's kitchen" was also great!

tHIS IS WHAT i WOULD SAY TO THEM:

"BABY WE WERE WONDERING
IF YOU WOULD SING SOMETHING NEW FOR US
BECAUSE WERE NOT TOO SURE ABOUT HOW YOU FEEL
SO WE RATHER GIVE YOU AN IDEA
I KNOW THAT YOU KNOW THAT IF YOU SING AGAIN
YOU WILL DO A GOOD SHOW
BUT YOU MAY DO SOME THING YOU MIGHT REGRET THE NEXT DAY
AND YOUR FEELINGS WILL GET HURT
bUT i DONT KNOW....THE WAY THAT I FEEL
IM SO AFRAID....I
WONDER IF YOU WOULD SING AGAIN
WOULD YOU FEEL US WITH LOVE BABY
BECAUSE WE NEED YOU TONIGHT

-ML

*Sigh* 80's Nostalgia
Anyone who is familiar with mid/ late 80's pop has got to remember Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam and the great jams they cranked out. All of the big ones are here. You get both of their fabulous #1 hits. "Head To Toe" starts out like a Supremes song and then takes off with a terrific catchy chorus *instantly recognizable.* "Lost In Emotion" was the other #1 and is just as great. Then you have the slow song "All Cried Out" which is beautiful and although Lisa Lisa comes off as sort of whiny, it justifies the song so it's forgivable. "Youuuuuu you leave me so confuuuused, now I'm all cried out...over you." An 80's slow jam classic. Plus, you get the great free-style dance jams that put them on the map in the first place. Who can forget "I Wonder If I Take You Home" or one of my faves "Can You Feel the Beat." A MUST buy for 80's music fans. I don't care what people say about the 80's. Free-style dance music like Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam is awesome and music just isn't made this fun anymore. If you like this, I also recommend music by Expose and Debbie Gibson. Ear candy to help you forget about your troubles!

I REALLY like this album!
I got laughed at by the saleslady for buying this album. She looked at me as if, "What is this teenager doing buying a Lisa Lisa album?". I didn't care because I had grown up listening to Lisa Lisa on the radio when she was singing "Head To Toe" and plus I really liked her other hits like "I Wonder If I Take You Home" and "All Cried Out" so it was something I was willing to shell out cash for. I love this album because the music is pretty orginal, Lisa Lisa has a style that is unbeatable, the lyrics are catchy and those breakdancing beats are really danceable. My fave track has to be "I Wonder If I Take You Home" but I like the classics like "All Cried Out", "Head To Toe", "Lost In Emotion" and "Can You Feel The Beat". I also liked "Let The Beat Hit 'Em" and "Something 'Bout Love". This is the perfect dance album and one that you can play at parties, it's one of my personal faves and I recommend that anybody should buy this album and don't be afraid to just because it's old school! :) ... Read more

Reviews (11)

in response to a question
The song played during the street fight scene is by the Moody Blues "Nights in White Satin". I have always thought that was a great song but I when I heard it during that scene I was completely blown away. I love it when filmmakers use an unconventional song for a scene.

Great songs. Great film. I love it.

the music is good but some is missing
I really liked the music that the soundtrack has on it but they forgot to put many songs on it and I wonder what had happened to the rest of the songs missing? The movie has many more and is excellent but I only gave it 3 stars due to lack of the other great songs missing.

A Primo Collection
One of the greatest soundtracks ever. The mixture of music on this one works so well together from such great artists as Dean Martin, Della Reese to James Brown and The Jimi Hendrix Experience to name a few. You can play this CD anywhere at anytime and never get tired of hearing such old classics that are timeless and put together in an order that play with your emotions from beginning to end.
One question though, How many soundtracks does "Nights In White Satin" appear in, anyway????!!!!

Very Good Soundtrack
I don't usually buy soundtracks or review them and there are few that stand out to me. I enjoyed many of the songs on the soundtrack, mainly because of the diversity in genres. You've got your motown, doo wop, and classic rock. These songs suit the movie scenes perfectly, especially when "Beautiful Morning" starts playing when the scene cuts to the blue sky. The Four Tops add my favorite Baby, I Need Your Lovin' and Dion drops in with "I Wonder Why" to set the tone for when this movie was taking place. Motown and Doo Wop was very big at the time this movie was filmed, especially in NYC.

ONE OF THE BEST SOUNDTRACKS EVER MADE!!!
It's not easy to find a soundtrack with one good song after another. This one is defintely worth owning. Done in true DeNiro style...award winning! A super great 'make-out' 'remember-when' soundtrack that does not disappoint.
Cuddle up with your baby, and enjoy! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

In the mid-'60s, a distinctive postbop style evolved among the younger musicians associated with Blue Note, a new synthesis that managed to blend the cool spaciousness of Miles Davis's modal period, some of the fire of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, and touches of the avant-garde's group interaction. Maiden Voyage is a masterpiece of the school, with Hancock's enduring compositions like "Maiden Voyage" and "Dolphin Dance" mingling creative tension and calm repose with strong melodies and airy, suspended harmonies that give form to his evocative sea imagery. Trumpeter Freddie Hubbard was at a creative peak, stretching his extraordinary technique to the limits in search of a Coltrane-like fluency on the heated "Eye of the Storm," while the underrated tenor saxophonist George Coleman adds a developed lyricism to the session. --Stuart Broomer ... Read more

Reviews (21)

A landmark recording
Herbie Hancock reaffirmed his importance in modern Jazz history with this stunning album. Hancock always is a pioneer of Jazz music, and this album takes him to another level of Piano brilliance. Using outstanding musicians as backup compliments this album. With Trumpeter Freddie Hubbard and Saxophonist George Colman, Hancock explores each and every song on here with different rythmic spacing, and musical influences from Miles Davis, Ornette Coleman and even Art Blakey. Hancock isn't afraid to go for a new sound and we are all gratefull to this Jazz pioneer. From "Maiden Voyage" to "Dolphin Dance" each and every song on this album (CD) is a delight to listen too. Blue Note recordings did an excellent job of letting Hancock explore and the Jazz world is gratefull for it. Highly recommended!

A classic from the early 60's
This collection with Herbie Hancock fronting a group consisting of the rhythm section of Miles Davis' second quintet; the always amazing Tony Williams and Ron Carter; is an absolute classic from the period. Freddie Hubbard is at times astonishing in his soloing. George Coleman who also did a brief stint with Davis rounds out the group on tenor. While not one of my favorite tenor players overall he does some of his best recorded work on this. Hancock established himself as a composer of jazz standards with Maiden Voyage. His playing on this is comparable to another classic of the period Miles Smiles. Maiden Voyage ,Miles Smiles and Wayne Shorter's Speak No Evil are the epitome of where modal jazz was headed in the 60's under the influence of Miles Davis. These fabulous musicians were making history again and again.

One of the best jazz albums ever
Wow...this album blew me away. I'm a kid of the 21st century in a world of new exciting forms of music...the fact that this thing still gets to me shows that "Maiden Voyage" is a timeless jazz album....a classic. Herbie's masterful use of harmony is definitely evident in this recording. The beginning D Suspension and F Suspension chords are so classic...every jazz pianist should know his chord voicings in this song. It is incredible that Herbie is able to create beautiful musical textures in songs such as Dolphin Dance and Maiden Voyage. This recording is an essential item for every jazz listener. Yep, buying this is an option.

Maiden Voyage - a classic!
I was listening to this disc just a moment ago and I decided to make justice for it and decided to review it. This is what I've got to say.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

About The Rudy Van Gelder Edition
(In these RVG edition CDs all transfers from analog to digital are made at 24-bit resolution). The remastering done by Rudy Van Gelder is excellent! The sound Gelder gives the recording - which he originally engineered - a more life like balanced sound that is more pleasing to the ears. The listener is able to hear nuances of the instruments (f.ex. fingers on trumpet valves very clearly). Sometimes the remastering makes you believe that the recording session was held only recently.
By comparison most of the mid 80's Blue Note releases - that have been precursors to RVG editions - are muddy and have little bass definition and an inappropriate amount of treble.

About the packaging
I find it very nice! RVG edition CDs contain the original liner notes and also liner essay ("a new look at" as it is called) from critic Bob Blumenthal, that provides interesting historical insight that may - or may not - reveal new information to the seasoned jazz fan, but definitely could be helpful to new listeners discovering the legacy of Blue Note through these deluxe RVG editions. Also some session photos by Francis Wolff that fold out to full view in the booklet are very nice, some of them are well known and some are published for the first time.

About the music
To put its simply - it is beautiful. Other adjectives that I would use to appraise this disc: reserved, complex, elegant, sophisticated, cerebral, refined/mannered...
It is modal jazz that has some post-bop influences. Maiden Voyage is less overtly adventurous than its predecessor, Empyrean Isles, but it is nevertheless full of creativity of these musicians, notably Herbie Hancock who is at the peak of his entire career. It could easily be the finest recording of the '60s, reaching a perfect balance between accessible, lyrical jazz and chance-taking hard bop.
Each member is on top of his game for this session, and the result is a very enjoyable recording. Rhythm section is exceptional; Ron Carter on bass and Tony Williams on drums. Carter and Williams ceate an ideal backround (along with Herbie) where Coleman and Hubbard can do their soloing. Freddie Hubbard plays trumpet with nice phrasing but George Coleman won't stay far behind him as he shines with some of the best saxophone playing ever.
The quintet plays five Hancock originals. They are all simply superb showcases for the group's provocative, unpredictable solos, tonal textures, and harmonies. The quintet does take risks, but the music is lovely and accessible, thanks to Hancock's understated, melodic compositions and the tasteful group interplay. All the elemenst blend together and make Maiden Voyage a shimmering, beautiful album that captures Hancock at his finest as a leader, soloist and composer.
This is an excellent recording, which I unhesitatingly recommend as a great addition to any serious jazz library, and possibly as good a way as any to have Hancock represented as the essential musician he is. This is an excellent CD to begin exploring jazz - it is an ideal introduction for newcomers but also a must have for veterans.
It will immediately let you know that you're listening to a classic and with every listen it gets better.

When I listen to this CD I feel like I'm in one of those tropical isles surrounded by blue-green sea. Sun shines and the sand on the beach just shines pure white. Sky is blue and a few white clouds are scattered here and there. I walk in to the sea and dive to the direction of the bottom of the sea. I see many different coloured fish species swimming around me. A green turtle flows over my head. So much life... But suddenly it all disappears. I see couple of sharks swimming and passing by. And it all just calms down. Life returns. Turtles, fishes, octopussies... Everything shines and colours are bright and warm. It is so beautiful...And when the music begins to fade away I rise from the sea, get back to the beach and just watch as it all gets wrapped around the calmenss of nigth... Beautiful.

This is Essential jazz. Essential Hancock and essential modal jazz. It definitely deserves a five star rating. I have had this CD for a long time. I keep enjoying it time after time. You will do yourself a big favor if you buy this. If you don't believe me, just read what other reviewers have to say.

Almost Perfection
I would rate this CD as being a Jazz classic were it not for one or two weak moments in the set; that aside, it rates as one of Herbie hancocks best efforts to date, and is definitely a Jazz essential.

"Maiden Voyage" is a brilliant, mellow track, one that highlights both impressive individual improvisations and stunningly cohesive collaberation. "The eye of the hurricane" is a snappy little number that alomst allows its impressive style to overshadow its rather substantial substance. "Little One" veers back towards the mellow, serving as a quiet interlude before the free-form cacaphony of "Survival of the Fittest," a work that is not as cohesivelly structured as I would prefer. "Dolphin Dance" is a pleasently fitting close to the album. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Real Deal
There's just a little I can add to Mr. Sinclair's extensive review (available elsewhere on Amazon's page for "Naturally").

I have yet to have the pleasure of seeing Ms Jones and the Dap Kings play live, but it's worth mentioning that the DaptoneRecords site lists upcoming dates.

To my ears, several tracks -- especially "Natural Born Lover" and "How Long Do I Have To Wait For You?" -- would appeal to ANYONE who has EVER loved ANY of the great American "soul" styles (R&B on Atlantic in the 50s & 60s, Motown, Philly Soul, 70s funk, etc.)

But Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings transcend nostalgia. Refreshing, real, soulful -- every track on "Naturally" is brimming with music that feels just as good as listening to a side of the Atlantic Rhythm & Blues box set.

Their version of "This Land Is Your Land" is a special treat, the track that I come back to after filling up on the two songs mentioned above, the revelation of what depths still lie within the song, and within the country, Naturally.

Can't take it out of the CD player!!
Heard this CD playing at the a local indie store and bought it on the spot. If you are like me and new to purchasing this type of music, this CD is a good place to explore what FUNK really is! It;s not the junk you hear at dance clubs today for sure.I have always been a rock and roll guy but this album just grabbed me. Give it a shot and I am sure you will LOVE it!

The most Genuine and Soulful modern album yet!
What you get with any Daptone, Truth and Soul, Soul Fire or Desco release is serious no punches pulled gritty soul and funk with the same feel and sound as classic late 60's and early 70's soul.

This music is not a gimmick.

Nor is it like a cheesy 70's Blaxploitation soundtrack or a misjudged pseudo-soul acid jazz sounding record. There is quality and depth to these performances and heart and soul that goes as deep as anything you have ever heard.

It is being created and listened to by people who are sick and tired of the sterile mass marketed soul-less dross that the music industry continues to spew forth nowadays. People like Sharon Jones, Lee Fields, Charles Bradley, Joseph Henry, Naomi Davis and the NYC collective of musicians is doing us a great service by creating sounds of such organic beauty and raw funkiness.

What is great about this album is that, unlike Dap-Dippin', the music is way more varied; there are more ideas and more scope for lyrics with meaning. The biggest success of this album is that it proves to the critics that Sharon and the Daps are no one-trick ponies.

Here's a quick breakdown of the tracks in order;

How Do You Let A Good Man Down
This is my favourite new track by Sharon Jones. Firstly the groove is way different from anything off of the first album and it's more of a medium paced tempo. Great little horn riffs. The lyric is great too. We've all been in a similar position, but the band has got the feeling and groove nailed down tight!

Natural Born Lover
This one is a real late 60's stomper in the vein of the slew of 45's that came out around Mr Big Stuff (similar geetar in places) and has backing vocals. Over the drum breaks there's a chant 'An N.B.L. and a T.B.C.' which is very kitsch. It doesn't ruin the song but a lot of DJ's would have preferred an open drum break. I can take it or leave the little chant but it's a mighty fine Groove as always.

Stranded In Your Love
Is a duet with Lee Fields (check out his 2 albums, Problems and Lets Get A Groove On). This is a funny, jokey but heart-warming song. Despite this the general groove is just great. Sure it's a ballad, and it's not going to get many plays out, but it's bound to win you over with oodles of charm. All I can say is; 'Thank god Lee's car got stolen, cause otherwise he would never have slipped into Sharon's bed...'

Hang on, did his car ever actually get stolen, or was it a dodgy scheme to get in her pants?... I'll let you decide!

My Man Is A Mean Man
Has the BEST groove on the whole album. It's frenetic like the first album, but it's even better than anything on there as it sounds significantly different (some of the tracks on the first were very similar to each other). This a real butt-shaking floor-stomper, with bass drums and conga played at a breakneck speed! I don't know how these guys play such dense, frenetic- yet tight grooves so effortlessly. Totally thrilling.

You're Gonna Get It
Side one finishes with You're Gonna Get It which is another ballad, but this time much slower. This sounds so like an old 60's tune that it's unbelievably authentic. A nice tune, not funk, just soul. The horn players manage to sound a bit like a Yorkshire Colliery Brass Band at about 3.00mins in too. Get your whippets and flat caps out!

How Long Do I Have To Wait For You?
Side 2 starts with How Long Do I Have To Wait For You?. This is another highlight. Middish tempo and sufficiently different from their first album to feel that the band are moving forwards with the 'sound'. Fat Drums and Sharon in form, topped of with a sprinkle of trumpet.

This Land Is Your Land
You'll already know this if you buy the singles direct from the website. Again another highlight for me. An old Woody Guthrie tune (he was a folk singer who inspired Bob Dylan) that pushes the band out a bit further with their sound than Dap Dippin' did.

Your Thing Is A Drag
Is a vamp based on Papas Got A Brand New Bag and is typical of reply songs that that came out in the sixties (a la It's My Thing, It's Your Thing, It's Our Thing etc). Bass is the highlight on this one. Great party tune.

Fish In The Dish
Is a New Orleans type of track, done at a slow-mid tempo. It's a nice track, but not my favourite, despite impeccable playing as always (it's ok to like some songs more than others, even if it's Sharon, right?).

At 1.40 min there's a great bit of piano. and the tune gets into a nice groove. There's even a little whistling (a la Sitting On The Dock Of The Bay) right at the end!

All Over Again
Is a massively good tune, made unbelievable by Earl Maxton's soaring Hammond. One of the best things Sharon and the band have done so far. This is another ballad, with a nice guitar lead too. This is nicely produced and may not satisfy the 'funk heads' but the 'soul' crowd will dig it.

You'll notice that there's a few new names in the band, but the core- bass and drums (and bugaloo velez) are intact. These two are, to me, what makes the Dap Kings so impressive.

Negatives?

It's too short.

I wanted Paying Taxes, Genuine, and What Condition on there, so that was disappointing. Perhaps they'll go on a Daptone CD comp of their singles later in the year?

What Condition (a cover of a Betty Lavette song) will be released in April on Hot, Funky and Sweaty a compilation CD, with, get this; A NEW POETS OF RHYTHM SONG!.
... Read more

Amazon.com

Whoopi Goldberg has a lot of talents, but singing is not one of them. Hearing her massacre Motown classics like "Dancing in the Street," "Ball of Confusion" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" in her flat, dull voice on this soundtrack album would be harmless if a whole generation weren't being introduced to these songs through her clumsy performances. Several choirs turn in lackluster performances of gospel numbers. The disc's one redeeming moment is Aretha Franklin's overpowering delivery of "A Deeper Love," written and produced by C+C Music Factory. --Geoffrey Himes ... Read more

Reviews (26)

That's Some Powerful Gospel!
I prefer Sister Act 2 Soundtrack over Sister Act because of it content of songs. It has the best selection of songs. Don't get me wrong, Sister Act is good but I think this is better. Consisting you have Lauryn Hill of The Fugees and Grammy Award winner for her album 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.' My question is, why hasn't other talents like Ryan Toby and Tanya Blount been successful? Blount did a great album called 'Natural Thing' but nothing since then. I'm glad they have this album as a momento of some of the best singing talent around.

Just about every song here are some of the best classics put together. Whoopi does an OK job on Motown's classics, 'Dancing in the Street,' 'Ball of Confusion' (with the St. Francis Sisters) and closing song 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough.' The best comes from Lauryn Hill and Tanya Blount singing the old gospel hymn 'His Eye Is On the Sparrow.' There's excitement in 'Oh Happy Day' sung by Ryan Toby and the St. Francis Choir. Their shining moment at the competition with the new version of 'Joyful, Joyful.' They bring down the house with their kicked up performance. So if you haven't seen the film yet, don't miss out on some fun, some powerful voices and beautiful gospel.

Fun, Fun, Fun
This is simply a fun album to play. We hear it a lot because my wife loves it and she loves to sing. She has a good voice and often uses this album as a warm-up before singing.

The opening medley is lively and constantly changing (medleys tend to do that, but not as fun as this one). "Oh Happy Day" is fun to sing-along to, especially if you have seen the movie. They dynamics and voice control on "His Eye Is On The Sparrow" are awesome. The "Ode to Joy" is like "Boston Public" meets Saint Olaf's Choir. Followed by "Joyful, Joyful" will get you off your feet, clapping your hands and stomping your feet. Even Whoopi Goldberg does a decent job in "Ain't No Mountain High Enough".

If you love to sing, you must get this album (and should watch the movie, too). If you like upbeat songs or gospel songs, certainly give this album a try.

One of The Great Soundtracks...
Back in the day Sister Act 2 was one of my favorites because it represented the struggle to rise up and overcome adversity and doubt and excel...something we needed coming out the ghetto. Hope. The soundtrack was definitely a fun 'sing - along' type of thing since I already knew all the songs from watching the movie so much anyway. Notable singers that were on the album include Ryan Toby of City High fame, Tanya Blount, and the great Lauryn Hill. Granted that outside the movie I would rarely listen to these songs but that's exactly why this is a soundtrack. When I feel like reminiscing about a movie or something I just pop in the soundtrack. Still a great soundtrack with very memorable songs. 5 Stars.

Soulful
Do not listen to Amazon.com's review of this CD. You will be deprived of a great collection of soulful songs from the cast, especially their version of Oh Happy Day. And this contains one of the first available recordings of Lauryn Hill, who was also in the movie as an angsty teenager. Buy the CD and the DVD and enjoy.

GREAT!
This shows why soundtracks are good in the first place. This CD is so much fun, just like the original! I can'tdescribe it any other way. It lifts your spirits, every soulfull and uplifting tune! It has great Dance songs too! If you have a chance to listen to this CD, take it! ... Read more

Album Description

2002 vehicle from former At The Drive-In members OmarRodriguez and Cedric Bixler. A potent blend of dub reggae,psychedelic Latin and Can-inspired 'tribalisms'. 5 tracks'ShrimpTown', 'Dystopia', 'Lopsided', 'Paganorama' & 'Songs For Luna'. ... Read more

Reviews (45)

It's ATDI all over again...
In my opinion ATDRI was Cedric (and quite possibly the other guy with the afro - he seems to have gotten it right with crime in choir). Without his vocals ATDRI would have been just another band. So whenever someone says "boy, I'm sure bummed that they broke up," tell them to go listen to The Mars Volta. MV continues with some of the same type of beat Vaya had - spacey, intense, tribal rock stuff...the peak of ATDR.
The only major difference between the two bands is that Cedric doesn't scream. However, give MV enough time and I think he'll be freaking out in no time flat - sort of like how Crooked Fingers started out as a solo act and evolved into a full blown rock-out band. Hopefully, by the time MV releases an LP or two, ATDRI will be completely reincarnated, without the guys from Sparta dampening the real talent.
Buy Tremulant, it's good music.

Seriously the greatest cd I have ever listened to.
There's not much to say except that everyone should own this cd no matter what type of music they like, although you can hear influences from the 70's and obviously influences from today's indie bands, this music is wholly different. I am in love with these 3 songs and 2 other demo songs that are floating around the internet. The lyrics, vocal melodies, guitar work, and especially the drums are amazing. Music fans searching for innovation look no further. The Mars Volta will probably take over the world with their full length now that they are signed to a major label. Please listen to this cd, and download the songs Cicatriz and Roulette Dares.

Don't look this over.
Don't let the three song track list persuade you otherwise, this is worth the money. Well..when I think about it, they should of changed more. Every song is filled with such power and raw emotion it's hard for me to conger a compairison. "Concertina" is easily the backbone of the EP. They lyrics are beautifully crafted and blend with the music flawlessly. The song takes you on a journey of spirituality that few musical acts can duplicate and is one of their greatest songs. "Eunch Provocateur" is also a great track with amazing guitar and percussion work but the listed 8:48 is a little deceiving because the song really ends at 5:36 and is followed by muffled voices and techo drums. If you're interested in "The Mars Volta" then this Ep should be a great introduction to their music for you. If you like this then you'll love their full lengthed album "Deloused in the Comatorium".

Play That CD!
Did you ever have that brother or sister in your family, that eclipsed you, no matter how great the things you did were and how truly magnificent you are? Well, De-Loused in the Comatorium is the popular brother in the Mars Volta family. Hailed by critics left and right, loved by nearly all who experience it.

But what about Tremulant? The one that showed De-Loused the ropes? While it's not as polished and filled with some big-name session musicians and producers (although Alex Newport is nothing to poke a stick at) it has just as much heart and soul as De-Loused. It's still spacey and surprising; surreal and searing, just packed into a smaller amount of time.

Cedric's lungs still seem to be coughing up the shards inhaled at the demise of At The Drive-In, but it's only small pieces, and like they aimed to, they progress forward with their music.

This CD helps complete the chain that leads you to their newest endevor and manages to offer The Mars Volta with textures and tones that we're yet to see on any of their other works.

It's a reccommended buy if you even remotely liked De-Loused.

A jolt of the Volta
One of the freshest new rock bands in years is the Mars Volta, a sort of space punk band that blasts in and out and leaves you dizzy. The EP "Tremulant" is a fierce little chunk of music that blends together a dozen different musical styles into a big glorious stew.

The EP features a mere three songs. "Cut That City" has a steady buildup before exploding to life. "Concertina" is a more conventional rock song, but it's always ready to twist when it seems to become ordinary. Closing track "Eunuch Provocateur" is a mind-blowing example of what Mars Volta does best: rapid-fire, loud and strange, with plenty of dizzying instrumental stretches.

The Mars Volta is not what most people think of as a rock band. They rock, sure. But they cram in about every musical style that shouldn't fit together: punk, funk, psychedelica Latin, a touch of jazz. And at the heart of it is art-rock. Rather than defying the standards of rock music, the Mars Volta grabs those standards and twists them into a Dali-esque sculpture.

It has the weird, science-fictiony lyrics that Mars Volta does so well, but it's hard to hear them. Cedric Bixler's high, thin voice bobs in and out of the explosive music, and at times you can catch little hints of things that don't seem to make sense. No matter. His voice sounds almost like another instrument being played, whether he's wailing or murmuring.

"Tremulant" is a good intro to Mars Volta's full-length debut, the magnificent sonic avalanche "De-Loused in the Comatorium." The only problem is the hunger for more it leaves in its wake. ... Read more

Amazon.com

She's no stranger to the towering highs and lows of the heart, and Etta James's soaring, gospel-tinged pipes match up well with the rigors of unabashed bliss. Happily, the good people at Chess Records recognize this, and they have thoughtfully collected some of the best examples into one tidy record. Kicking off with her classic treatment of "At Last," the collection moves through the lilting strings of "My Dearest Darling" on into the expressive tones of "I Want to Be Loved (But Only by You)" with grace and emotional candor. James can be simultaneously tender and deeply honest and her ability to express the desperate joy that is the soul of love remains one of life's marvelous pleasures. --Matthew Cooke ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Whether you¿re in or out of love, At Last...
If I could have bought it for only one song, it would be "At Last." I've heard it all of my life. I've heard the voice all of my life. I've known the song all of my life... but Etta James, until recently, has been that mysterious and familiar voice whose identity is not mine to know.

I accidentally pushed the wrong button on a bar-room jukebox and heard the song... AGAIN. The luxury of this accident afforded me the privilege of knowing just who this mysterious voice is and I shall admit that AT LAST I know, and it pleases me.

James has this silky, nonchalant voice that sings of love and sometimes heartache. The music would be the best medicine for dear listener who requires sad love songs for the misery-loves-company-of-the-broken-hearted or the very same song for the couple in love. It is versatile entertainment, and very much enjoyable for just the right audience.

the soulful Miss Peaches
Etta James' big, brassy and bold voice sings some great love songs in this bluesy, R & B collection, starting with her 1961 hit of the Warren/Gordon "At Last", which is one of the standouts. Others include another hit from 1961, "Trust in Me", and an earthy, scrumptious duet with Harvey Fuqua (lead and founder of the Moonglows), "If I Can't Have You". I also like her take on the Gershwin brothers' "Someone to Watch Over Me", with Ira's terrific lyrics; I always appreciate his split phrases, like "Although he may not be the man some / girls think of as handsome"

With the exception of "Lovin' Arms" which was recorded in 1974, and the cover of The Association's "Never My Love" (1973), these recordings are from the '60s, but Etta is a classic singer, and never sounds dated. Digitally remastered, they did a good job of the audio quality, with crisp highs and nice depth. there are no liner notes in the foldout insert which only includes a song list, and the total time is 45'48.
Fondly known as Miss Peaches, one wonders if Etta's huge voice, with it's powerful, slightly abrasive top notes, would have become more famous had she not been shadowed and hindered by personal problems; Etta is a major song stylist, appealing to listeners of jazz, R & B, soul, and blues, and this is a fine compilation for fans of this splendid artist.

Soul Stirring
Miss Peaches is her nick name huh? Well her music is certainly sweet. When I purchased this CD a few years ago, I was really in a bluesy state of mind and remembering feeling very mellow and encouraged when listening to Etta's very soulfoul voice. She is so intense on the song Trust in Me and sweet as ever on I Want to Be Loved. Her version of Someone to Watch over me will bring you to tears (it did for me anyway, music is my therapy!). I loved this Cd and have since purchased The Chess Box-a 3cd set of her greatests songs. Wonderful. I love Jamesetta...

Fabulous Etta!
Buy it. Don't even hesitate. Every song is great,
the best. "At Last" gave me chills in 1958 as a young
teenager falling in love for the first time. Now, over
40 years later, I'm still getting chills every time I
listen to it. "How Do You Speak To An Angel" and "Again"
are two more that I have discovered and move me beyond
words. I love this CD!

Etta James a true jazz women....
I have been a fan of miss james for a long time since as far as i can rememeber........
This woman's voice is incredible...her barritone is so sultry and sexy...the way she sings is like velvet it's so smooth and sexy...
Miss james signature song is one of the greatest love songs of all time" AT LAST" beautiful love song...
this album is a collection of love songs that miss james has recording hense the albums name Love songs...
this is a stunning collection...
This is a must for any Etta james fan.. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Although his first solo record tanked, this release looked like the beginning of a superstar career. Brown, a former lead vocalist with New Edition (he was replaced by Johnny Gill, but both men participate in most NE reunions) has an appealing, if somewhat grainy, voice. It's a good match for the hip-hop beats that underpin some of the best songs here, especially "My Prerogative," which at the time sounded like an anthem. His ability to deftly merge R&B's upscale and hip-hop street esthetic (both Teddy Riley and Babyface produce tracks on this CD) changed the role of the rake hero. Sadly, this was Brown's lone significant musical moment as a solo artist. Except for marrying Whitney Houston, his life since has become a skein of self-destructive activities. --Martin Johnson ... Read more

Reviews (26)

It Was His Prerogative.
If you weren't at least a teenager in the late 1980s, then you'll most likely have a hard time believing that Bobby Brown made headlines for his hits and not for his embarrassing run-ins with the law. In retrospect, the success of this former New Edition member wasn't supposed to happen and it surprised all parties involved--even Brown himself. After the flop album "King of Stage," Brown had one more chance to prove himself as a solo artist, and nobody was sure if "Don't Be Cruel" would be a hit. Fortunately for him, it was. It skyrocketed to Number One on the album charts, spawned a string of Top Ten hits, and his onstage dance moves made him a new teen heartthrob. What's more, "Don't Be Cruel" is credited as an album that helped put two things on the map: a) new jack swing and b) LA Reid & Babyface, the production team who did a handful of the material on this album. However, his most familiar single was the Gene Griffin/Teddy Riley-produced "My Prerogative," which is just as slammin' a new jack groove as anything Guy ever recorded. The hits "Every Little Step" (whose original album version is way better than the single remix, in my mind), "Roni," and the ballad "Rock Wicthca" are all bonafide jams that have that late-1980s r&b feel, while the album cut "I'll Be Good to You" also stands out pretty well. "Don't Be Cruel" isn't a perfect album, though. Brown's vocal style is limited and the second half of the album loses a bit of steam. But it's an overall fun r&b record that proves Brown did indeed have a life well before he made headlines as Mr. Whitney Houston.

new jack classics
Bobby Brown is credited for being the most commercially succcessful artist from the era now known as new jack swing. And with good reason too. Don't Be Cruel was his 2nd solo project that was in deep contrast to his 1st. It was more aggressive, harder-edged, and just a new artistic format overall. He always had a niche for rapping, even with new edition, and he truly shines on "dont be cruel", "my perogative", and "all day, all night". Not only did he prove that he could rap, but he also showed that he can croon too, as shown on classics like "roni", "rock witcha", and "i really love you girl". Overall, Brown showed his versatility and charisma, riding to the top of the r&b charts in the process. Brown may not have originated new jack swing, but he certainly is the one who popularized it, along with his cohorts new edition, guy, and al b. sure. If you are even a casual new jack fan, "Don't Be Cruel" is a must-have.

real r&b music
usher is the only artist today that still uses this style. bobby brown is so talented i can't believe he stopped making music. this is as classic of a cd as michael jackson's off the wall. get you life together and get back to what you do best music. i can't wait to hear some new music from you.

The most influential R&B album of the last 15 years
When people think of the Bobby Brown these days, they think of the pathetic loser that's bringing down Whitney Houston's life and career; but at one time he was the biggest singer in the world. People were questioning his decision to leave New Edition; but it was the best move he could he could possibly make(and for New Edition; their post-Bobby album "Heartbreak" is a classic). This album is solely responsible for the raunchy bad boy R&B that is flooding the airwaves today; from Usher, B2K, Marques Houston, R.Kelly,Tyrese, Ginuwine and even Justin Timberlake owe B.Brown their careers. This has some of modern urban music's standards;"My Perogative"(which unfortunately be his life's theme song), "Roni"(MY SONG!), "Every Little Step", "On Our Own" and the anthemic title track. This will probably be Bobby's last shining moment in the spotlight; as the old saying goes: There's nothing worse in life to see than wasted potential.

Every Little Step I Take...You Will Be There...
I don't remember what it was earlier this year ( prolly the radio ) talking about old Bobby Brown was about to drop again and how it would be better than 'Don't Be Cruel'. I bust out laughing...I thought 'Impossible...preposterous, ludicrous!" After all, this album was THE JOINT when it dropped. I don't care what anyone said if you didn't have this album you were an outsider, a joke, the laughing stock. IF you didn't know "Don't Be Cruel" by heart, forget about having friends.

"Ohoh, girl

As long as I've been givin' my love to you
You should be givin' me your love, too
But you just keep on actin' just like a fool
You know it ain't cool
Don't Be Cruel...cause I would never be that cruel to you...
Don't Be Cruel...girl you need to change your attitude!"

You know you had your little childhood relationship battles...I know you did. That was the jam...it was undeniable. 'Roni' was equally the jam.

"My heart belongs to tenderoni ( she's my only love!)
She's My Only Love ( My Heart)
The truth about Roni, she's a sweet ol' girl
About the sweetest little girl in the whole wild world
She'll make the toughest homeboy fall deep in love
Said once you had a Roni you will never give her up
She's a special kind of girl that makes her daddy feel proud
You know the kinda girl that stands out in crowds
Found a tender roni and the Roni is so right
I think I'm gonna love her for the rest of my life"

WHAT!? Known by heart by many. And those were just the semi-jams. Don't forget about 'My Prerogative', 'Rock Witcha' and 'Every Little Step'. Straight up JAMMIN. Funky, movin, grooving, and straight up smoove. The Hip Hop and R&B was PERFECTLY blended here and never since has it been surpassed...maybe equalized but not surpassed. Definitely (in my mind) the opal of the New Jack swing era. Bobby Brown - Don't Be Cruel...a MUST HAVE. ... Read more

Reviews (29)

At Last!
Finally...the best of ALL the great Hall & Oates songs over the years, spanning the various record labels in one great package with strong remastered sound. Taken in chronological order, this set begins with the blue-eyed soul of classics like "Sara Smile" and "She's Gone" and contains crucial minor hits from the RCA years like, "Do What You Want, Be What You Are," "Wait For Me," and my personal favorite, "It's A Laugh." Soon the duo was a hit-making machine, and the huge singles make up the bulk of what's here, although the album cut "Every Time You Go Away" was indeed the #1 hit for Paul Young in 1985, and it's one of Daryl Hall's finest vocal performances. The hit cover of "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" is also essential, as is the cover of Mike Oldfield's "Family Man." Chart success was sporadic by the late 1980's and early 1990's, although there are some great tracks near the end of the second disc, like "Don't Hold Back Your Love" and the cover of "Starting All Over Again," a big hit for Mel & Tim. The recent "Do It For Love" shows that H&O can still do great things with a strong pop hook. Highly recommended, and a quantum leap in sound and selection over previous imports and stateside collections which didn't include the full roster of hits and strong album cuts.

Everything Your Ears Desire
With 6 # 1 songs, 10 additional top 10 singles and a string of gold and platinum albums, Daryl Hall and John Oates have rightfully earned their place in rock history as the most successful duo in music, a title they still hold 20 years later. And while their chart appearance is sporadic these days (their single "Do It For Love" ascended to the top of the Adult Contemporary charts 2 years ago). This 2 - disc set keeps the extraordinary legacy alive.

Disc 1 has all the stuff from the early years. Just about all the hit singles from their first 9 chart years are here. Songs like "She's Gone", "Sarah Smile", "Rich Girl", "Private Eyes" and "I Can't Go For That (No Can Do)" still sound as fresh and vibrant as they did 20 years ago. And don't overlook lesser - known early material like "Las Vegas Turnaround" and "It's A Laugh", not to mention their stunning cover of "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling".

Disc 2 continues with their bigges hits from the 1982 - 85 period, starting with their signature song "Maneater", which still remains one of the best songs of the 1980s'. My other favorites from this period are "Out Of Touch" and "Method Of Modern Love". Their later work is not to be overlooked by any means. The Jon Bon Jovi co - written "So Close" is absolutely brilliant. And their cover of the Mel and Tim classic "Starting All Over Again" and "Do It For Love" prove they still have it.

This is probably the best collection of Hall and Oates hits money can buy. It doesn't leave any hit out. It's what you might call an essential album by two of the greatest artists of all time.

Hall & Oates' all-time greatest hits
This collection features Daryl Hall's and John Oates' thirty-seven greatest,biggest and most memorable recordings,spanning three decades(1973 to 2002). Most compilations feature several original tracks but this is one of the few to feature all previously released material. If you're a fan of pop/rock,R&B,or both,this album is a must. The studio version of WAIT FOR ME appears in this collection. A live version appears on 1983's ROCK 'N SOUL PART 1. Since RNS,H&O released BIG BAM BOOM(1984),OOH YEAH(1988),CHANGE OF SEASON(1990) and MARIGOLD SKY(1997). Five years after MS,H&O released an album with the track DO IT FOR LOVE(track 17 on CD 2)on it. H&O began recording on the Atlantic label,then moved to RCA,then Arista. If H&O hadn't yet been inducted into the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame,they should be now. Keep up the great music,guys!

That '80s' Show
With 1980s' superstars like Michael Jackson, Madonna and Lionel Richie having greatst hits releases churning out like clockwork, odds are that it would only be a matter of timme before the superstar of the 1980s' Daryl Hall and John Oates would get their own "definitive collecion". Well, they did and the result is a two - disc filled with timeless music that still bristles with freshness more than 20 years later.

No matter what your favorite Hall and Oates song is, it's unlikely that you won't find it here. Whether you enjoy the smooth Motown - style groove of "Maneater" , the bouncy New Wave - style "Private Eyes", the infectious hook of "You Make My Dreams" or the pleading "Say It Isn't So" (my personal favorite), everything is here that you could possibly ask for. Hardcore fans will be happy to know that some unrecognized singles and album tracks have been included, such as "Las Vegas Turnaround", "When The Morning Comes", "Camelia", "Do What You Want, Be What You Are", "It's A Laugh" and "Your Imagination". The only singles missing from this album are "It's Uncanny", "Why Do Lovers Break Each Other's Hearts" and the medley of "The Way You Do Things To Do" and "My Girl" with Eddie Kendricks and David Ruffin from their 1985 live album. But who really remembers those?

This is a great collection of timeless music that should be cherished by all music fans. I also suggest picking up the albums "Voices", "Abandoned Luncheonette", "Ooo Yeah", "H20" and "Private Eyes".

Wish On My List
What an album! There's absolutely everything in here! Every single ever released! I bought it recently from my retailer and besides that the price is kinda high, it's worth every second... I admired Hall & Oates back in the early eighties and still do. I admit that they were the world's most famous duo. Certainly at that period of time. I wondered how they managed to make real catchy singles everytime. I'm only thinking of Kiss On My List (my real introduction), I Can't Go For That (No Can Do), Private Eyes & Did It In A Minute. From there on, it was clear to me that they had the most hitpotention, because really every tune they made, was a hit!
Out Of Touch was tremendous... and for me, the closing of a personal period. I am also in search of their 12 inch collection (2-CD's, Japan releases. Anyone who knows how I can get my hands on that?!) but it's hard to get. They take a special place in my heart forever... Thanks guys, for making such inspirational music (Voices album) for me in the eighties... ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Four years after her return to recording after a much-publicized battle with drug addiction, Natalie Cole found herself unexpectedly experiencing a virtual reinvention as a bestselling artist and performer, thanks to a project she had longed to do for many years. Unforgettable with Love was the soulful singer's way of paying tribute to her late, legendary father, Nat "King" Cole, and marked her label debut for Elektra Records. Cole, Elektra, and the album's producers--including then-husband Andre Fischer and Tommy LiPuma--were rewarded with a multiple-Grammy-winning set that sold an astonishing 5 million copies in the U.S. alone. Cole's selections varied from obvious choices like "Mona Lisa," "NatureBoy," "Route 66," and "Straighten Up and Fly Right"--all major hits for her father in the '50s--to more obscure parts of King Cole's repertoire, such as "Avalon" and "Non Dimenticar." The crowning glory was a "duet" with her father, electronically created using his original vocal, which helped expand Cole's audience dramatically and took her career to a new plateau. --David Nathan ... Read more

Reviews (32)

THE TITLE SAYS IT ALL!
When Natalie Cole first launched her career, everyone was expecting her to sing her father Nat's songs, or to sing the type of music, he did later in his career: middle-of-the-road pop. Well, Natalie specifically steered clear of doing that because she wanted to prove that she could make it on her own, and desperately wanted to step out of her father's massive shadow. So she sang straight up R&B, as a disciple of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. She established herself as a top vocalist during the mid '70s and into the '80s but not without some personal troubles.

This CD, UNFORGETTABLE WITH LOVE, gives fans of both Natalie and her dad a treat. No doubt the world greatly misses Nat King Cole; we can't help but think of what would've happened had he lived. But to carry on his legacy is his daughter doing his songs now, even though at one time she didn't want to. But it was time! We might as well keep it in the family, right? Who else is more deserving of covering his material? And Natalie does a wonderful job, too. The technology used to make Natalie sing "Unforgettable" with her dad is nothing new now, but when the CD first came out, everyone was saying, "How did they do that?" And to this day, I get choked up just listening to that duet. Natalie covers 22 of her dad's hits on this CD, such as "That Sunday, That Summer" (another tear-jerker for me), "L-O-V-E", "Mona Lisa", "Thou Swell", "Nature Boy", "The Very Thought Of You" and "Our Love Is Here To Stay". Plus she does a medley of three of her dad's most romantic tunes: "(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons", Tenderly" and "Autumn Leaves". Absolutely beautiful. Natalie, your dad would be proud. Well done, "Sweetie"!

"Unforgettable" proves a memorable tribute
Natalie Cole's pop albums always featured at least one jazzy, swinging track, so it came as no surprise when she decided, in 1991, to release an all-out tribute to her father, jazz-legend Nat "King" Cole, complete with full orchestra. It serves not only as a strong and fitting tribute to one of music's greatest figures, but as a perfect opportunity for Natalie Cole to expand her horizons...and her fan base.

Let's be honest...they just don't write 'em like they used to, and therefore Natalie never had quite the chance to show off the grace and elegance of her voice as she does on the likes of "The Very Thought of You," "Mona Lisa," and "Our Love is Here to Stay." Producers Andre Fischer, Tommy Lipuma, and David Foster keep Natalie in superior arragements throughout, especially evident on "Too Young" and an exquisite rendition of "Lush Life." There's plenty of swing, too, however: "Paper Moon," "Route 66," and "L-O-V-E" are songs that couldn't be authentically pulled off by just any pop singer, but Natalie more than rises to the challenge. Furthermore the frantically-paced "Avalon" and the midtempo "Don't Get Around Much Anymore," the latter boasting a slick scat, are among the album's best tracks.

But the finest moment comes at the finale: through the wonders of modern technology, Natalie is afforded the opportunity to sing with her father, digitally remastered here to gorgeous effect on the album's title track. Unfortunately, the practice inspired countless, less-appropriate knock-offs (even Natalie reprised the idea two albums later with far less impact) but here, Natalie's obvious love and affection for her father and his music come through tenfold, and we're treated to one of the most beautiful and moving moments in jazz. In summation, a talented daughter pays tribute to her legendary father, singing timeless classics admist top-notch arrangements traditional enough for purists to admire, but accessible enough for pop fans to discover and cherish. "Unforgettable" indeed.

Unforgettable With Love Natalie Cole
Natalie Cole's 1991 Album Unforgettable With Love is one of the major Highlights of her Career,because after 16 years of Contemporary Music she is finally ready to embrace her father the late Nat King Cole's music as well as the music she grew up with,as well as bieng her first album of the 1990's.The songs are The Very Thought Of You,Paper Moon,Route 66,Mona Lisa,L-O-V-E,This Can't Be Love,Smile,Lush Life,That Sunday That Summer,Orange Colored Sky,For Sentimental Reasons,Sarah Vaughn's Tenderly,Autumn Leaves,Straighten Up And Fly Right,Avalon,Duke Ellington's Don't Get Around Much Anymore,Too Young,Nature Boy,Darling Je Vous Aime Beaucoup,Almost Like Bieng In Love,Thou Swell,Non Dimenticar,Our Love Is Here To Stay,and the Postumous Duet with Nat King Cole and title cut Unforgettable.Finally after years of Hard Work and Perservearrance she was at the height of her Career and a Queen in her Own Right,and not Aretha Franklin's Title.This is truly one of My Favorite Albums Of-All-Time.I Love and Respect You Natalie Cole,you are truly Unpredictable and Unforgettable With Love like 2 of your album titles states it(early 1977&1991).

Brings new meaning to "using yo Daddy's name"
Natalie don't sing liker her Daddy, she brings emberesse=ment to the Cole family name, she sings liek a primitive monkey, way too high and off pitch, HORRIBE, and she brings SHAME to the Coel name , by altering her voice in a duet with her dead Daddy, SICK, she 's a SICK SICK person to take that and make a name for herself from her Dad's grave. SHMAE!!!! At least if one thing good came out of it, Nat Cole gets played on more easy listening stations and FM statiosn because of that hidiously artered song.

Natalie's Finest Hour -- Very "Unforgettable" Experience
Recently I purchased the replacement CD copy from Amazon after loaning the original to a friend, who promptly lost it. Oh well. It had been quite some time since I listened to this disc, but upon receiving it in the mail only 4 days after placing my order online (thanks, Amazon -- speedy delivery, as usual), I quickly became re-acquainted with the wonderful songs on this CD. It's like running into a childhood friend where you always discover something new everytime you're together. That's my feeling everytime I listen to this CD.

The song selection is impeccable -- every song so closely identified with Nat "King" Cole during his reign as one of the best singers to ever grace the music world in the 20th century. But what makes these songs special and "Unforgettable" is Natalie Cole's warm, sensual, yet faithful renditions made famous by her dad.

Legend has it that Natalie was first approached to record these songs almost 20 years earlier when she was still not even quite out of college. Apparently music producers and record companies wanted to "Cash In" on the notoriety of the relationship between the Cole family and these songs. But Natalie resisted because she wanted to carve out her own musical identity and distance herself from her dad's legacy. Story goes Natalie was approached time and time again by different producers over the years, but she continued to resist until her mom, Maria, finally encouraged her to just do it. But I think Natalie's own personal experiences with drugs and substance abuse also played a part. Emotionally she wasn't ready until the time was right.

1991 was finally the right time and her producers -- Andre Fischer (former ex), David Foster and Tommy LiPuma -- do a great job bringing in the beautiful lush orchestra to backup Natalie, who certainly doesn't disappoint. She was right in waiting out until the time was right to record these songs. Her painful years battling drugs only add to the nuance and subtlety of her interpretations. She has NEVER sounded better. She doesn't strain for any high notes, yet she hits every single note with ease and doesn't overpower the music, but lets the music speak for itself. Her renditions are right up there alongside the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, and Sarah Vaughan.

Personal favorites from this immaculate CD are: "That Sunday, That Summer" "Orange Color Sky" "Lush Life" "Very Thought of You" the very moving "Smile" and of course the "duet" with her dad on "Unforgettable". Natalie notes with pride in the CD jacket that "Smile" was written especially for her dad by the one and only Charlie Chaplin.

Thanks for making an "Unforgettable" CD, Natalie. Even 13 years after you recorded these songs, they're still timeless. And they always will be.

This CD may stand out as the cherry on top of a delicious cake. It is your Finest Hour as an Artist. ... Read more

Amazon.com

He could be the most low-key superstar in the entire pop arena. While almost anyone can name two or three Robert Palmer songs off the top of their head, it's startling to see all his monster hits packaged together and to realize just how many there were. Was Robert Palmer really this big and important? Actually, yes. With nineteen songs in this collection, ten are perennial FM staples--a higher number overall than anyone this side of ZZ Top. 1980's Clues is the critics' choice. But Palmer's commercial high point was 1985's Riptide and the Power Station album of the same year. All are well represented. For even more Palmer, try the two-part Addictions series. --Gavin McNett ... Read more

Reviews (20)

While some may like it hot, I just care for real cool rock!
This cool collection of primarily-'80s rock material from British solo performer Robert Palmer is very hip and stylish, I feel. There's really only one major flaw, that being the 1997 remake of one of his biggest hits "Addicted To Love", it's just not up to par with the original. Most likely, the movie buffs out there can remember what was going on during the time the original version was played back in 1988's "Cocktail", a movie I hated, but which had a great soundtrack, but of course, that's another story. Now back to this album. The songs I like are "Bad Case Of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)", "Simply Irresistible" (now being played in a show that performed on late-night TV recently, you know, it's the one with the woman in the yellow dress), then one of my real favorites, the Power Station performed "Get It On (Bang A Gong)", the funky "I Didn't Mean To Turn You On", the also funky "Looking For Clues", yet another Power Station hit "Some Like It Hot", the dreamy slow-paced "Know By Now", which I'm listening to right now, actually, it's a refreshing change from Palmer's usual style, I had previously thought he was just fast-paced rock. I also like Robert's remake of the Marvin Gaye classic "Mercy Mercy Me (I Want You), and finally, of course, the original "Addicted to Love", one of the great rock hits of the '80's. As for the other inclusions, there are only two I don't I like at all, and the remainders are of fairly average quality, I'd listen to them again if I had to. Also, what could have made this collection better is if it had included the 1990 single "You're Amazing" from "Don't Explain". All in all, this sure is cool music material, get it for yourself today!

The Very Best Of Robert Palmer Highlights The Singles Hits
This albums is a 17 song collection of radio hits, mostly from the US, and offers little evidence of Robert Palmer's ability to sucessfully tackle vastly different styles of music. This set ignores the R&B funk material of the singer's early solo career along with his many African, Latin, and Carribean influenced compositions. None of Palmer's forays into jazz and romantic standards are included either. Essentially this is the best of his Top 40 radio oriented material. There are several notable hit singles. "Addicted To Love", "Simply Irresistible", "I Didn't Mean To Turn You On", "Bad Case Of Loving You", "Every Kinda People", and "Mercy Mercy Me/I Want You" were all Top 10 or Top 20 hits in the US while "I'll Be Your Baby Tonight", "Some Guys Have All The Luck" and "She Makes My Day" enjoyed similair success overseas. Palmer's big hits with The Power Station ("Some Like it Hot" and "Get It On (Bang A Gong)") are also included. This is the best collection available focussing on the singer's "big hits" and casual fans or 80's rock fans will enjoy. Minor US hits like "Looking For Clues" and "You Are In My System" round out this set alongside the brillaintly crafted melodic ballad "Know By Now", a 1994 UK hit.

Remixed and tampered with hits? Oh my! And no Sally??!
The late Robert Palmer got his start back in the early 70s with Elkie Brooks singing co-lead in the British blue eyed soul band Vinegar Joe. Then he hung out with the Meters and Little Feat in the deep South and recorded his best album, Sneakin' Sally Thru The Alley, which of course features the legendary medley of the title tune with Hey Hey Julia and Sailin' Shoes. Why that 9-minute funky classic is not included on this set-despite the fact that it would fit perfectly on this set which putters out at 70 minutes- is a mystery. But maybe it is because he could not tamper with the master tapes as he does on most of the other tracks.

That's right, a lot of these songs have been re-mixed, re-vocaled, re-instrumented, or all of the above. This is really an unnecessary, cheesy thing, a cheap attempt to make the music sound "modern" and "hip". The funny thing is, it has the exact opposite effect, making this collection feel like one of those bargain cds in the cut-out bin with the disclaimer that "these songs have been re-recorded with at least one of the orignal members"! The original mixes got popular for a reason- because they were the original mixes! Mr Palmer was always known to be a slave to trends- kind of a poor man's Bryan Ferry-stylishly coiffed and clad, striking a handsome figure, hanging out at all the right parties. But as opposed to the trend-setting Ferry, somehow with Palmer it rang hollow and cynical. In other words, chasing the buck.

Palmer moved from his earlier funky soulful style of the mid-70s to attempts at a rockier sound ("Bad Case") and the Caribbean flavored Every Kind of People in the late 70s...then on to more New Wavy synth flavored stuff like System, Johnny, Some Guys, and Clues around the early 80s. These four tracks are mildly interesting but suffer from the same thing that his vocals often suffered from- too monotone, too removed-sounding, and too soulless.

With his mid-Eighties renaissance, Palmer would use this robotic monotony to his advantage, scoring monster hits from Riptide and the Power Station. He became an MTV darling,acheiving icon status thanks to his sharp look and of course the Robotic Model backing band he used in videos for Addicted, Simply Irrestible and Didn't Mean to Turn You On.

In the Joe Cocker/Rod Stewart mode in that he was more often an interpreter than a songwriter/musician, Palmer's songs are pleasant if often lacking the true soul Cocker and Stewart had. He was certainly a better partier than entertainer.

Get the original mixes!

We'll Never Forget You, Robert
Robert Palmer was a fabulous singer, with a super-cool, super soulful voice (and, lest we forget, he was also a very snappy dresser). His untimely passing earlier this year from a heart attack was a major shock. While it's unfortunate that it took Palmer's death to get this compilation CD, "The Very Best Of Robert Palmer," re-issued after being out-of-print for some time, it is indeed very good to have it available to the masses once again. A very generous 17 tracks long, this CD contains EVERY single hit song Palmer ever had, whether solo or with his side band, The Power Station. They're ALL here: "Addicted To Love" (both the classic original & the 1997 re-recording), "Bad Case Of Loving You," "Some Like It Hot," "Simply Irresistible," "Looking For Clues," "Every Kinda People," and a whole lot more, showcasing Palmer's powerful pipes and his great flair for catchy pop-rock. The only reason I'm not giving this collection 5 stars is because my favorite Robert Palmer song of all-time, "You Are In My System," is included here with a re-recorded vocal from Palmer. Reportedly, Palmer wasn't happy with his original vocal on the song (originally from his album, "Pride"), thinking that his performance was too rushed, so he re-recorded it several years later. While I respect Palmer's decision, and his second go at the song is fine, his original performance on "You Are In My System" was perfect, and didn't need to be re-done. Oh well, at least I have the "Pride" album on LP if I want to hear how Robert originally sang it....*Other* than that one personal gripe, "The Very Best Of Robert Palmer" is a superb collection and tribute to this great singer. Farewell Robert, we will never forget you.

Greatest hits but not his best at all
Although it does contain most of his greatest hits, I wouldn't call this album the VERY best of Robert Palmer. In my opinion, his very best definitely includes Best Of Both Worlds from 1978, his lovely version of Lou Reed's Pale Blue Eyes in The Power Station plus songs like Happiness and Housework from his Don't Explain album.

This collection starts out with up-tempo rockers like Addicted To Love, Bad Case Of Loving You and Simply Irresistible rolling by before his version of T. Rex's Get It On finally brought a smile to my lips. Palmer's version has less of a smooth flow and more of the guitars bursts, but his soulful voice is great.

Hits like Some Guys Have All The Luck, I Didn't Mean To Turn You On and Looking For Clues are typical of his later work: catchy tunes and clever lyrics to appeal to the mainstream, but a bit shallow. Songs like You Are In My System & Some Like It Hot, despite nice instrumental flourishes, sounds like pretty standard 1980s pop-rock.

Interesting that Palmer's really unique music should be hidden on album tracks that never made the playlists. At least there are some gems amongst all the bland pop here: the contemplative Every Kinda People with its lilting reggae beat and his gripping interpretation of Mercy Mercy Me/I Want You make this album worthwhile and earn it four stars. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A 9-year veteran of the indie R&B circuit, Amel Larrieux stretches her vocal wings on the stellar, yet painfully overlooked "Bravebird." Serving as her solo sophomore set, the New York-based singer/songwriter has crafted a disc that mixes midtempo melodies with beautiful and lush lyrics. Lead single "For Real," written by Larrieux and her husband Laru Larrieux, opens with a serene piano solo that is accented by the voice of a young baby cooing. Backed by an infectious, handclap-accented groove, Larrieux sings about "real love"--the kind of love that makes you a better person. Larrieux can also rock out and does just that on the funk-fueled "All I Got." The result is a bass-heavy affair that is accented by an electric guitar wah-wah and some impressive improvisation. However, it's on the heartbreaking "Beyond" that Larrieux truly shines. Backed by an acoustic guitar and quiet string section, Larrieux's lyrics of everlasting love make you want to believe in something more.

Like fellow soulsters Anthony Hamilton and Goapele, Larrieux, who began her career as one-half of the R&B duo Groove Theory, sings with an ease that is rare in many of today's R&B artists. Her voice is natural and engaging, and that's what makes Bravebird truly soar. --Rashaun Hall ... Read more

Reviews (59)

FLY, BRAVEBIRD, FLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Amel Larrieux's Bravebird, the follow-up to the amazing "Infinite Possibilities" is another instant classic in her repertoire! The Sony/Epic records label should be ashamed of itself to drop such a talented and gifted songtress/songwriter as Larrieux. What, Sony? Amel wasn't "ghetto" or mainstream enough for you? At any rate, I digress. Amel Larrieux has always had me as a fan since the days of Groove Theory. She lures you into her esoteric world and dares you not to feel what she feels with her incredible vocals and thought-provoking lyrics. Every song here is a hit and showcases Amel's incredible and diverse talents as a singer. Truly uncategorical with such a unique voice, it's very difficult to say who Amel sounds like or gets her influences from in the business; although it would be safe to say that she probably has an extensive classical jazz collection. With Bravebird, this gorgeous siren has crossed new boundaries, dabbling into house music, neo-soul, funk, folk and even some pop. Braveheart definitely has mass appeal, but will probably go unnoticed by the Alicia Keys, Beyonce, J-Lo and Ashanti fans--a shame, too, because Amel Larrieux is AWESOME! In my book, she's the QUEEN OF NEO-SOUL!!!!

You know it's a classic when...
Amel Larrieux's follow-up album to her solo debut is as good as music gets. Here's how you can tell this album is a classic:

1)No two songs on the album sound alike, yet the whole album flows effortlessly from one song to another
2)In reading different reviews of "Bravebird" every single song has been mentioned as someone's favorite track. From "For Real" to "Beyond" to the second version of "All I Got", EACH song has been named as "the best song on the album", or "my personal favorite" by different reviewers. Hence, there are no "highlights" on the album because that would imply that there are songs that are not as good as other song. Every song is amazing. Which leads to number 3...
3)There are no "fillers" in this album. You can listen to this album non-stop from beginning to end. If any of the 12 songs were taken off the album, the album would definitely be missing something. In a musical time period where filler songs are commonplace, this album is quite refreshing.
4)In reading different reviews of the album, everyone has different reasons why this record deserves 5 stars, implying that "Bravebird" does something different, but still wonderful, for every listener.

I was going to do this review by rating each song, then I realized that each song would get 5/5, so I decided to go about it in a different way. Whatever the case, "Bravebird" is definitely a classic. The only downside is, we don't know when we will get another album from Amel, but that is even more reason to get "Bravebird" and take from it all it has to offer.

Open spirit, positive words for the community
I was very pleased to hear Amel came out with a new CD, and I just got back from hearing a live gig in support of this effort. Listening to the CD, I feel that the songwriting is not as strong as that of "Infinite Possibilities", but this is still worth a listen. I dig tracks like "New", "All I Got" and "Bravebird". Equally important, Amel is an artist who is willing to carve out her own space. "All I Got" has a nice message as she affirms the beauty that's in all of us. She has a very giving spirit. Also, in contrast to many of the other soul singers out there, she does venture into issues beyond herself. beneath its catchy rhythms, "Bravebird" is a song that addresses the pain of female circumcision. It's Amel's courage in taking on issues, staying true to herself, and operating outside of the confines of a major label that leads me to urge you to support this fine artist. Very few of our artists make a Joni Mitchell's influence so transparent. She sings with passion and at times a real purity and grace.

Her live show was tight too. She brought this child on stage who was dancing to her songs and sang some of "For Real" including the falsetto high pitched stuff. Real positive and definitely touched the crowd. Also, she had a nice version of Bill Withers' "Lovely Day" in her show.

Carter Barron amphitheater in DC was moved by her spirit. I enjoy this album and she's definitely worthy of your support.

4 stars

--SD

Awesome
Maybe it's because I haven't heard any of her other work, but I love this cd. OR, maybe it's because I haven't heard any of her other work that I love this cd? In any case, her voice is beautiful, pure and soothing. I love her lyrics and her melodies. This is a welcomed addition to my cd collection.

WORTH EVERY PENNY SPENT
ALRIGHT THIS CD SHOWS OFF SOMETHING YOU DONT SEE EVERYDAY. ONES OWN STYLE NOT TRYING TO SOUND LIKE SOMEONE ELSE I LOVE THIS CD. THE BAD THING ABOUT TIHS IS THAT QUALITY ARTISTS LIKE AMEL DONT GET MUCH PLAY TIME OR YOU DONT KNOW ABOUT THE CD UNTIL YOU GO TO AMAZON AND YOU SEE THAT SHE HAS A NEW CD OUT. HEY I HAVE AN IDEA LETS TAKE ALL THE WANNABES OFF THE RADIO AIRWAVES AND PUT ON SOME REAL MUSIC!!!
I HAVE ONE COMPLAINT THE FIRST TRACK ON WHEN SHE GETS TO THE BRIDGE DONT SING IT UNLESS YOU WANT TO BE TOOKEN TO AN EMERGENCY ROOM FROM BEING MAULED FROM A PACK OF WILD DOGS OR BE CAST OUT OF YOUR OWN HOME FOR GOOD :O) ... Read more

Album Description

You want your '80s! Fer sure! This is the mother of alltributes to the era of skinny ties, Reaganomics, andPac-Man! Seven CDs, 142 hit songs, from New Wave to Pop toR&B to Hip-Hop to Novelty, including an incredible 49 #1tracks! Starring Queen, New Edition, Duran Duran, RichardMarx, Daryl Hall & John Oates, Men At Work, Toto, The Cure, Culture Club, Cyndi Lauper, Bryan Adams, Simple Minds,Bangles, New Kids On the Block...and many more. Plus a90-page book with hundreds of historical photos, facts, and memories from the decade that wanted it all! Limitededition sculpted rubber cover! Approx. 10 x 8 x 3/4 inches. 2002. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Doesn't compare to Rhino's 70's box
Okay, I'll concede this point: If you like a lot of 80's pop, from "new wave/new romantic/synth pop" to metal to plain-old top 40, you'll enjoy the music. I'll also concede that the art direction is both amusing and top-notch, in typical Rhino style. Their box sets are beyond compare in terms of presentation.

The problems: Almost all of these songs have been released on other 80's compilations, and many on Rhino's own product. Billy Crystal's novelty song is probably the rarest thing here. This is a general beef with Rhino, which reissues the same one or two tracks by a certain artist over and over as opposed to picking a lesser known hit. My guess is that most people likely to buy a package like this probably has at least some of Rhino's "Just Can't Get Enough" series, perhaps some of their Billboard 80's discs, and some other companies' compilations. I end up feeling like I pay $10 to $20 per song, or end up buying a package because I like the packaging! (It's true -- suckers are born every minute.)

What's most disappointing, however, is that Rhino did a much better job with their 70's box set. The 70's box set DID contain a few rarities from some big name artists. In fact, their "Have a Nice Decade" box is the ONLY place I'm aware of that one can buy the single version of David Bowie's "Fame" on cd. Similarly it was one of the first cd's to feature the single edit of Gladys Knight and the Pips' "Midnight Train to Georgia." These are just two examples. The only unusual sounding mix I heard on this box was the Romantics' "Talking In Your Sleep", and I didn't listen closely enough to be sure that there was something different about it.

The 70's box also had many interesting sound bites from the 70's (Nixon, Patty Hearst, etc) placed at amusing points during the program. The 80's box contains NO sound bites. This makes this box set more of a collection of tunes and less of an "experience." Sure, the music alone evokes nostalgia but sound clips from Reagan, Bush, Quayle, or "Murphy Brown" would have been interesting. Imagine a soundbite from the news of the shuttle exploding right before Peter Shilling's "Major Tom (Coming Home)". That's the kind of fun the 70's box provided.

I also thought the first essay in the booklet was lame, but that's neither here nor there.

I know that my critique may seem overly harsh to some. If I were reviewing this only for people who didn't have any 80's music on cd and wanted a great amount and variety of tunes, I'd certainly recommend this at the 5-star level. Somehow I don't think that is the primary market envisioned for this.

Is this enough '80s music for you?
My biggest gripe is this: there are seven CDs in this package, and my CD player only holds five CDs! :-(

OK, seriously, this is quite a comprehensive collection of 80's music, and just about every genre is represented to some extent. There's Eddie Rabbit, Blondie, New Edition, Dexy's Midnight Runners, Devo, Simple Minds, Duran Duran, just to name a few. Of course, though, it is heavy on the pop numbers, and it certainly brings back memories of high school for me, particularly since the collection seems to lean heavily toward early to mid '80s music. There's not much on it after 1987, which doesn't bother me personally, but I would have liked, for example, "We Didn't Start the Fire," by Billy Joel.

Indeed, that is the one problem with this collection, but that can be said for any collection. For all the wonderful songs on there, so many more were left off. There's nothing by A Flock of Seagulls, Journey, Michael Jackson, Madonna, and each artist that is there is represented only once. Why was The Thompson Twins represented with "Lies" and not "Hold Me Now" or "Doctor Doctor"? Where was Howard Jones? Still, it was well worth the money.

Now, I just need a CD player with more spaces . . .

Nice overview - may be addictive...
Be forewarned, the sugar-coated empty calories found in the LIKE, OMIGOD... box set from Rhino will just leave you wanting more. 142 tracks across seven CDs and it just scratches the surface on a shallow, yet oddly endearing decade.

LIKE, OMIGOD... hits almost all of the popularly acknowledged high points, including "867-5309/Jenny," "Tainted Love," "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," - as well as great novelty numbers and underground tunes like "Pac-Man Fever," "Da Da Da," and "Turning Japanese." While not in strict chronological order like Rhino's 70s set, HAVE A NICE DECADE, LIKE, OMIGOD... is well-sequenced and provides a relatively satisfying trip - as well as a great set for any party. No need for "random play" here - just load this set, hit "play" and dance away.

While this set is almost certainly a one-stop shop for the music fan simply looking for a well-balanced 80s collection, the completist and discerning collector will no doubt view this as the tip of the iceberg. Those such as myself, more enthralled with the simultaneous New Wave movement, will find lots more to love (approximately 300 tracks worth - with minimal duplication) in Rhino's 15-volume JUST CAN'T GET ENOUGH 80s collection. Even then, LIKE, OMIGOD... will spur you on to fill up your shopping cart with with entire albums by Billy Squier, Duran Duran, The Fixx, Pretenders and more.

The only downside to be found is that LIKE, OMIGOD... also forces the listener to take the bad with the good (or the worse with the bad?), presenting end-of-the-decade stinkers such as New Kids on the Block and Richard Marx toward the end of the seventh disc. For this listener, those musical tragedies are still too recent, too terrible to revisit with any degree of nostalgia.

As gaudily packaged as the decade it represents, LIKE, OMIGOD... is presented in a hardcover book format identical to HAVE A NICE DECADE and contains a similar full-color booklet complete with essays, trivia, 80s timeline and notes on each of the performers and songs included. The sound of the CDs, as with all Rhino product, is pristine. As for the sound of some of the music - well, you can't blame Rhino...

FREAKIN' AWESOME COLLECTION!
I can't tell you how many 80's compilations I have and, aside from each of them usually having the same couple songs, like The Fixx or Squeeze, (which isn't on here), you're always surprised when you listen to a compilation by which songs you hear that you never knew the name for and all of a sudden you're "like, omigod! (no pun intended) That's THAT song!?! I KNOW that song!" LOL...hearing a lot of these brought back some great eighties memories for me, even though I was only a kid back then. This compilation had most of my fave 80's songs on it, so I could just copy the one or two songs off my other compilations, make one CD out of them, and sell the rest. I advise anyone who's interested in this to do the same. But read Amazon's list of songs first, if you haven't already, to make sure your favorites are on here. Definitely worth the money, considering you're getting seven CD's, so it equals out to about ten dollars or so per CD, (I got mine for $73). As further proof, I'm letting my co-worker listen to disc 6 right now and she's so impressed, she's downloading it to her hard drive at work and will be purchasing it with her next check to bring it home! :-p If you love 80's, get this compilation. No collection is complete without it. Plus, the awesome booklet it comes with gives you a little info on each song, a historical timeline following the songs, and many many many colorful photographs! Impressive and worth it!

A must for any 80s fan!
Like, OmiGod! This set is awesome! It has almost every song that came out from any one hit wonder during the 80s like You Dropped a Bomb on Me (The Gap Band) and Turning Japanese (The Vapors). It's definitely a pop culture box with its songs on General Hospital, Pac Man and Valley Girls. This is a must for anyone who still dwells on the decade of E.T. and The Breakfast Club. Not to mention that I'm a huge Star Wars fan and it has a medly from The Empire Strikes Back. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

New Love
I hadn't even heard of Curtis Mayfield before this year. At a college party where me and my friend were literally the only people there, they were playing "Freddie's Dead." My 1st thought was what was this? Where's the "real" music? No wonder no one's here. My friend was like u have to feel the lyrics. He's talking about a junkie, about the consequences of being marginalized in society. This appealed to the activist in me and the funky arrangement peaked my musical curiosity. After reading a book that discussed his music, I knew I had to give him a try. I'm so glad I did. This is pure genius! I love "Pusherman" which is also briefly featured in one of my favorite movies Money Talks. Every song is genius. It's one of those rare CDs where I have to here the entire thing from start to finish. All his songs are versatile yet have his own signature style. I especially love that they all have a message. I will be rockin it in my car for a while, turning all my young friends on to some true music. Thanks everybody for the reviews! I'm so glad I checked this out! Peace and love.

Wazzup Curtis!!!!!!
This here is the mad tunes! This cat was super fly! Funky soulful bootyshakin music to my ears, my brothers. Dig it, yo.

Excellent Collection
Rhino has, as usual assembled a great CD highlighting the solo works of the late Curtis Mayfield. The trilogy of the Superfly tracks (Superfly, Pusherman and Freddie's Dead) show Mayfield as an observant sociologist. The Makings of You and So in Love show a true romantic. And anyone unmoved by the terrific, surging arrangement and upbeat message of Move on Up should check for a pulse. Curtis Mayfield was a giant in terms of songwriting, musicianship and message that we unfortunaley have too few of these days.

Timeless and perfect.
Curtis Mayfield was a musical genius and this CD is a testament to his amazing ability to create powerful, engaging, funky, soulful, moving music. Mayfield was clearly the master of funk and his falsetto vocals are the definition of soul. I have too many favorite tracks to pick just one -- "Freddie's Dead" and "Kung Fu" are alone worth the price of this CD. Most of the songs address some kind of moral or social issue and the lyrics are genuinely thought-provoking, not cliched. Some of the songs make you want to dance, and for others you just need to close your eyes and soak it in.

This is one of my favorite CDs of all time, regularly played and always enjoyed as much as the first moment I heard it.

If you are even remotely curious about Curtis Mayfield or funk/soul music in general, you have to have this CD. It just doesn't get any better than this. Really!

Very best...
It's Curtis Mayfield...what's not to love? Stop looking...buy this now. ... Read more

Album Description

Multimedia phenomenon Brandy rose to superstardom in the '90s while only in her mid-teens, and was one of the decade's most successful new talents. Her string of smashes soared to the heights of the R&B and pop charts, as did her top-selling albums. The young recording artist and actress also reaped major acclaim in the television world with her hit sitcom Moesha, and the starring role in Disney's beloved TV adaptation of Cinderella. ... Read more

Reviews (24)

ALL OF THE BEST OF BRANDY!
IT HAS ALL OF BRANDY'S GREATEST HITS! THESE ARE THE ORGINALS RECORDNGS. THIS IS NOT A REMIX ALBUM OR SOMETHING THROWN TOGETEHR. THIS IS A GREAT COLECTION FOR ANY BRANDY FAN. :)

{ HALF & HALF }
a 90's fan from (syracuse,new york)
BRANDY'S FIRST TWO CD'S WERE GREAT;HER LAST TWO WERE NOT!
BUT BRANDY DID PAVE THE WAY FOR PEOPLE LIKE BRITNEY SPEARS AND
PINK!
IF YOU (DO NOT) HAVE ANY OF BRANDY'S CD'S PICK THIS UP! IF YOU
HAVE ALL OF HER CD'S:OR EVEN THE FIRST 2 DON'T!

Full Circle
When you think about purchasing a "Greatest Hits" or "Best Of" CD, usually you may get some of the hits but not all, then you have to still search around and make up your own "hits" cd with all your favorite tracks.Well that is not the case with this package.This is one of the few compilations that give you the full picture and the complete story.Brandy has released several solid efforts over the past ten years and the best of the best is represented here in all her hits.They even included
"Brokenhearted" (w/ Wanya From Boyz II Men) "Sittin Up In My Room" "Rock With You" and the remix to "I Wanna Be Down" (w/ Queen Latifah, MC LYTE, & Yo Yo)This is one cd where you won't have to press the skip button even once.

It's about time for a Greatest Hits CD
Brandy has been great from the start, from "I Wanna Be Down" to "Talk About Our Love". I've been saying all along that her record company should do a greatest hits CD of her career. It should have been called "A Decade of Brandy (1994-2004)

Amazing greatest hits album...5+++stars
When I first found out that Brandy was releasing a greatest hits album last year I was sort of nervous seeing that she only had 4 albums...but I love her and I knew I had to get it...I couldn't have been happier.
MY RATINGS:
1. "Baby" (10/10)
2. "Best Friend" (10/10)
3. "I Wanna Be Down" (10/10)
4. "Brokenhearted (f/ Wanya Morris)" (10/10)
5. "Angel In Disguise" (9/10)
6. "The Boy Is Mine (duet w/ Monica)" (10/10)
7. "Almost Doesn't Count" (10/10)
8. "Top Of The World (f/ Mase)" (10/10)
9. "U Don't Know Me (Like U Used To) (f/ Shaunta & Da Brat)" (10/10)
10. "Have You Ever?" (10/10)
11. "Full Moon" (9/10)
12. "What About Us?" (10/10)
13. "Who Is She 2 U" (8/10)
14. "Talk About Our Love (f/ Kanye West)" (9/10)
15. "Sittin' Up In My Room" (10/10)
16. "Rock With You (Quincy Jones w/ Brandy & Heavy D) (8/10)
17. "Another Day In Paradise (w/ Ray J)" (9/10)
18. I Wanna Be Down (Remix f/ Queen Latifah, Yoyo & MC Lyte)" (10/10)
It's a great album thats shows her success well. In my opinion, They could've left out ROCK WITH YOU (which wasn't even that popular) and replaced it with MISSING YOU or AFRODISIAC. ... Read more

Reviews (36)

She's No 1-Hit-Wonder!
Natalie.That's what you're sure to think of when it comes to music!The girl behind the smash hit "Goin Crazy," which hit #1 on Billboard's Top 200 Singles Sales Chart for 6 weeks and is still in the Top 5 today, has just released her debut album self-titled "Natalie."The album is different and something that you wouldn't expect at this time.The album is pure R&B mixed with Latin beats.The lyrics deal with love, but not cheesy and fake like a lot of those 1-hit-wonders which debuted in 2004.Natalie is bound to succeed; being a singer/songwriter/producer/ choreographer/dancer, and showing those skills on her debut and beginning of her music career, who knows what other tricks and talents she may showcase to us in the future.

There are definately stand out tracks on here.You all know "Goin Crazy," which is R&B laced with Latin and Soul, combined to make a less instrument showcased, more acoustic sound."Engery," which is bound to success (it hit #1 last week on The Most Added Song To Top 40 Radio Chart), and is as good, if not better than "Goin Crazy."

"Energy" is another Latin R&B song, but influenced with a pop/dance sound.The song features labelmate and long-time friend Baby Bash, and the lyrics are most relatable to about anyone who had deep love feelings for those friends close to them.

"Get It Right" has a very emotional edge; the beat also gives out that emphasize.The song has is R&B meets Latin soul and pop.Natalie writes/tells that she wants to be more than just friends with someone she has deep feelings for, and is expecting them to make a move, because she feels they go together. Although it sounds like another love song, what the lyrics tell is a lot different, along with the beat.This song also features a rapper friend of Natalie's, Max Minelli.

"You Don't Love Me No More" is one of the best songs on the record.Around 1 minute and 40 seconds after the song beginng, you can hear Natalie show her rapping skills for about a half of minute or more (TRIVIA: Natalie was a freestyle rapper before she sang).The beat is purely Latin Dance combined with R&B/Soul.Great for cruising around in the car, try it!

"Me Faltas Tu" is the Latin-translated (thanks to Frankie J's translation) version of "Goin Crazy."It gives a different feeling than the English, and the sound, or at least Natalie's voice is different than on the English version of "Goin Crazy."This is a bonus track, along with "Where You Are"--track 11.The song has the most of the same beat as the English, but Natalie's voice, at certain points, makes the song sound like something totally different!*Can also help with learning Spanish words!*

All in all, Natalie proves on her debut that she does have true talent, and won't end up a 1-hit-wonder.Good job to a job well done!

WOW!
Natalie is awesome! My favorite songs are Goin' Crazy and Energy. Natalie's songs are so fun and cool that I can't stop listening to the C.D.! You should defenitly check this C.D. out!!!

Versatile Style
This is an instant classic.No other R&B artist of today shows so much promising talent and versatility.Natalie's debut album is one of the most original albums of the year.She really showcases her talent on the opening tracks, and keeps it going on the up from there.She has whatever your looking for.She even keeps the clubs moving with her new single Energy which is a far cry from her first single Goin Crazy which is a beautiful love song. Again I must stress no other female out right now is showing this much promise and versatility.

Natalie Rocks!!!!!!
Hey guys, Natalie's self titled cd is awesome. You should buy it because it has really great songs on it and it is definitly worth buying. My favorite song is Energy. Please buy it and you will not be sorry....Peace Out.

Natalie
It's about time we start hearing artist sing about dedication and loyalty and the good moments of love, instead of this sex sex sex drug and booze crap we hear on the radio, this cd is the best one I bought this year yet, and it's a favorite. I am more of a linkin park and rock genre person but her voice and lyrics grabbed me and I hope she raises to the top because this girl has talent and I hope she takes it to the fullist.

I support this artist and her music, everyone should take a moment and check her out at least, if not buy her new release.

Did i mention she's a hottie, lol, hahaha anyways mmmm... buy the cd people, you'll love it regardless of what genre, I can't wait for her next cd.

P.S - (...) ... Read more