Ivory & Steel

1. Happy Lypso

2. Cavatina

3. Montevideo

4. S.K.J.

5. That's the Way It Is

6. Work Song

7. Medley: Impressions/So What

8. Stella by Starlight

9. Street Life

Ivory & Steel,Monty Alexander Quintet,Concord Records,Bop,Calypso,Jazz

Jazz

Music

jazz

music

Average customer rating: Wonderful new find Great Singer Have Passport, WILL travel PLAY THAT FUNKY MUSIC, BLACK GIRL! Black Magic

Black Ivory Soul Angelique Kidjo Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Benin | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Fusion & World Fusion | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Oyaya! Djin Djin Keep on Moving-Best of Angelique Kidjo Aye Logozo ASIN: B00006348E Release Date: 2002-03-19

Tracks:

1. Bahia
2. Iwoya (w/ Dave Matthews)
3. Olofoofo
4. Tumba
5. Black Ivory Soul
6. Refavela
7. Iemanja
8. Afirika
9. Okanbale
10. Ominira
11. Mondjuba
12. Ces Petits Riens

Amazon.com

Angélique Kidjo's previous albums have been decidedly patchy affairs, with tracks ranging from the sublime to the abysmal. With Black Ivory Soul, however, Kidjo strikes a lovely and generally consistent note. Exploring the connections between her native Benin and Brazil's Bahia region, she makes beautiful music flavored by two continents on songs such as "Tumba," with its crisp but subtle percussion driving a lilting melody, or "Afrika," where the cascading notes of the kora help bridge the Atlantic. Co-writing with talents like Carlinhos Brown and Vinícius Cantuária has helped; they've toned down the R&B influence than ran through Oremi and replaced it with something more individual. Kidjo sounds strongest when she's very rootsy, as on her cover of Gilberto Gil's "Refavela," which stands in stark contrast to the bland "Iwoya," a duet with Dave Matthews that sounds like nothing more than a calculated shot at radio airplay. Even the odd track out, a version of "Ces Petits Riens" by Serge Gainsbourg, works because of its spare delight. In following her muse and her history, Kidjo has produced her best work to date. --Chris Nickson

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful new find.......2007-05-12

I heard her music over a crowd at a museum opening event and found the DJ to get the name of the musician. I just bought this CD as a first sample and I love it! I'm coming back for more Kidjo. If you love Latin and world music and want something for a great party atmosphere that is not over bearing, this is delightful!

Great Singer.......2006-10-11

This is a great and beautiful singer, her style is cool and uptempo, easy to listen to all day. I have all her CD's, I give this CD and "Logozo" a 4 score only because my favorite is "Oyaya!"

Have Passport, WILL travel.......2006-10-01

From Bahia to Refavela to Ces Petits Riens...the range of Angelique is astounding. The obvious next step is...to see her live in concert!

PLAY THAT FUNKY MUSIC, BLACK GIRL!.......2006-09-04

BLACK IVORY SOUL by Angelique Kidjo was a 2004 birthday gift to me from one of my few true friends, Melanie. [Thanks, MelNel!] She was turned onto it by the receptionist at her dentist's office. Melanie immediately determined to get me a copy too, knowing that I'm the hippest, most soulful White dude this side of RESTAURANT 28 - an excellent soul food joint in Glendale, AZ. [restaurant28bbq.com] And did I like the music immediately? Did Louis Armstrong like red beans and rice? Does a bear like honey? Does Albert Pujols like a hanging curve ball? Does Terrill Owens like Donovan McNabb? (Oh, I guess I went too far.)

What I don't like is this bovine excrement that passes for music amongst our brain-dead youth today. (I call all of their bands `THE NAKED EMPERORS.') If it's not Bimbo Pop pap, it's Rap crap, or what's called "Alternative" (meaning: alternative to "music.") I don't buy music anymore; having an I.Q. over 50, I don't watch MTV; I don't go to dance clubs; and the only contemporary music [sic] I'm exposed to is through commercials and the half-wit sitting next to me at the red light. So although my familiarity with it has been limited, I'd say that Angelique Kidjo's BLACK IVORY SOUL is the best music yet to emerge from the 21st Century.

From the liner notes: "Kidjo has crossed musical boundaries by blending the tribal and pop rhythms of her native West African heritage with a variety of styles, including Funk, Salsa, and Jazz. On BLACK IVORY SOUL, Kidjo explores the musical and cultural kinship between Africa and Brazil, specifically her homeland and the province of Bahia."

Now, if that sounds like a real potpourri of influences, I can assure you that it does not come off as being some patchwork quilt of disparate styles. BLACK IVORY SOUL is a very unified and unique musical statement. The whole piece is tied together by intriguing , exotic rhythms and (though few of the lyrics are sung in English) the album is loaded with catchy melodies and hooks galore. It's as memorable as any Pop album ever created by an English-singing music stylist.

The musicianship - especially the drumming and percussion - is first-rate throughout, and Kidjo displays remarkable vocal control and an expressive instrument that conveys many emotional shadings regardless of language. Man, this is stellar stuff! You could dance to it, sing to it, contemplate to it. The only thing you won't be able to do is sleep to it; it's entirely too energetic for that. There's not a single track that I don't really like on BLACK IVORY SOUL, but if I had to pick a favorite, I'd probably side with OMINIRA. Thanks to the English translations provided in the accompanying booklet, I know that Angelique Kidjo is singing: "Everybody wants freedom / Everybody wants to find one's soulmate / Take my hand / I can promise you / Life will bring us freedom." From Kidjo's lips to God's Ears!

The only negative comment I have to make is directed at Dave Matthews who duets with Kidjo on IWOYA. While I like the song and also Dave's voice, it kind of irks me to hear him singing, "You don't have to be old to be wise / Don't you hear the baby crying?" I just happen to know that Dave Matthews associates with Planned Parenthood, and a few years ago his band did a benefit concert on behalf of that organization which is the nation's largest promoter of abortion. I've got a question for you Dave: How `bout you? Don't you hear the "unborn" baby crying?

Other than this "insensitive" singer/songwriter's participation, I really dig Angelique Kidjo's BLACK IVORY SOUL. It makes my own Irish / German / Scottish / American Indian soul sing. (I may be a mutt but I ain't no dog!) If you're the soulful sort and can appreciate great music regardless of its origin or the language of its lyrics, then you're gonna love BLACK IVORY SOUL, and I wouldn't Kidjo `bout that. (Ha! Sorry.)

Black Magic.......2006-07-03

This could be Kidjo's best ever, although she's still young, and no doubt, has more tricks up her sleeve, as the more recent, Caribbean-influenced OYAYA! would indicate. This collection of songs is largely inspired by Brazilian music, but as usual, Ms. Kidjo likes to mix things up, so her Aftican rhythms combine with French, South American and other shadings, and most of the melodies here are not only beautiful, but memorable; "Iemanja" and the kora-backed "Okan Bale" are particularly lovely. Even the fairly commercial duet with Dave Matthews is fine, and the one track I've heard on the radio, "Tumba" is joyfully infectious. Angelique Kidjo is an international treasure who has grown as a singer. She has become subtler, while retaining the power and soulfulness that first caught my attention in the early '90's. If you have the opportunity, catch Kidjo live, as she is an energetic, animated stage performer who can move even the most reserved audience to dance in the isles!

Average customer rating: Our favorite Not a lullabye CD Great for babies and adults Great lullaby CD - it really works! love this CD!

African Lullaby Various Artists Manufacturer: Ellipsis Arts ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Guinea | Africa | International | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music Nigeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music South Africa | Africa | International | Styles | Music Ivory Coast | Africa | International | Styles | Music Senegal & Gambia | Africa | International | Styles | Music Zimbabwe | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Compilations | Children's Music | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Brazilian Lullaby The Celtic Lullaby Mediterranean Lullaby Planet Sleeps World Music for Little Ears ASIN: B00000JCRJ Release Date: 1999-06-22

Tracks:

1. Thula Mtwana - Ladysmith Black Mambazo
2. Omo - Kemi Akanni
3. Kounandi Deni - Abdoulaye Diabate
4. Mayo Mpapa - Muriel Mwamba
5. Nyandolo - Ayub Ogada
6. Ayo Nene Touti - Mor Dior Bamba
7. Thula Thula - Ntomb'khona Dlamini
8. Webake - Samite
9. Oluronbi - Floxy Bee, The Hikosso Queen
10. Diriyo Nakana - Sadio Kouyate
11. Diyore - Abou Sylla
12. Sigalagala - Anindo
13. Tesegu - Danone O'Sow
14. Chitsidzo - Stella Rambisai Chiweshe

Amazon.com

As with other Ellipsis Arts releases, African Lullaby is more than a stellar music collection. Its delightful liner notes provide ample context for these "love songs for children" and the collection's innovative earth-friendly packaging is a work of art unto itself. Commencing with the bewitching Zulu harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, "Thula Mtwana" sets the tone, creating an atmosphere of warmth, safety, and peace, and is followed by a baker's dozen that reflect the gentle rhythms of an abundantly diverse continent. "Kounandu Deni" marries the dancing melody of Malian guitar and African harp with lyrics of paternal providence. Broadway's Sarafina! and The Lion King cast member Ntomb'khona Dlamini wails soulfully on "Thula Thula," and "Chitsidzo" is a mystical reverie of parental love and spousal longing accompanied by the intense beauty of a mbira (thumb piano). Standing head and shoulders above others in its class, African Lullaby is testimony to the awesome power of music. --Paige La Grone

Album Description

African Lullaby

This collection of lullabies reflects the warmth, musical richness, and soothing rhythms of the African continent. It is a gathering of talented singers and musicians whose gifts are recognized internationally.

Young and old ears will delight in the magical sounds of mbira, balaphone, kora, a capella vocals, guitar, bamboo flutes, dundun, and talking drum.

The lyrics sing of folklore, family, and village life in the traditional languages of the Ivory Coast, Mali, Senegal, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Guinea, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia, and South Africa. They communicate the love that these African artists feel for children and humankind—a love that transcends language.

Features Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Ayub Ogada, Samite, Stella Rambisai Chiweshe, and more.

The notes include original lyrics and English translations.

Customer Reviews:

Our favorite.......2007-04-03

This is my son's favorite cd to listen to when he is falling asleep and we don't mind overhearing it on the monitor! I spent a few years in Africa and a few of the lullabies remind me of singing with my coworkers and friends. Just beautiful.

Not a lullabye CD.......2007-03-01

While I love this album - especially the first track by Ladysmith Black Mambazo - I don't find it very soothing. The rhythms are not sleepy, but rather sweet and uplifting. I can't imagine a child in Africa being sung to sleep by most of these songs - these are the equivalent of slow pop songs from the 70s like "Time in a Bottle" - basically, love songs. Sappy and slow, but not lullabyes. I've heard a few African lullabyes, and other than the LBM track and one or two others this isn't it. Buy the album - but then request the publisher release an album of songs to soothe your kid to sleep.

Great for babies and adults.......2007-01-09

I bought this for my daughter as a change from the rest of the lullabies and we both enjoy it.

Great lullaby CD - it really works!.......2006-09-10

It's great. The songs are wonderful and it puts my 7mth old daughter to sleep in mins. At home or on long driving trips it is very soothing. Adults be careful...it also works on us too! Guarenteed to put YOU to sleep in seconds!
I will also recommend 'Gift of the Tortoise' by Ladysmith Black Mambazo...wonderful and educational CD.
Happy shopping!
Trinitaria

love this CD!.......2006-03-04

i listened to this while pregnant, then while nursing. now we listen to it at bedtime, and sometimes in the car. the music is so beautiful and soothing, it's one of my favorites in any category.

Average customer rating: Lush sound of Henry Mancini Mellow Classic The Stuff I Did While This Album Played Remembering the Past

A Warm Shade of Ivory Henry Mancini Manufacturer: RCA Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Lounge | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Six Hours Past Sunset The Academy Award Songs Midnight, Moonlight & Magic: The Very Best of Henry Mancini Mr. Lucky Goes Latin Uniquely Mancini ASIN: B00004LMRG Release Date: 2004-11-16

Tracks:

1. In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning
2. Cycles
3. Moment to Moment
4. Day in the Life of a Fool
5. Watch What Happens
6. By the Time I Get to P [Hoenix
7. Love Theme from Romeo & Juliet
8. Windmills of Your Mind
9. When I Look in Your Eyes
10. Meditation
11. Dream a Little Dream of Me

Album Description

Reissue of pop composer/arranger/conductor's 1987 album forRCA. Details TBA.

Customer Reviews:

Lush sound of Henry Mancini.......2007-07-06

Another of my favorite albums from my youth. This particular recording I consider lush and romantic. The same goes for his album, Six Hours Past Sunset. You could always count on Henry Mancini to produce some great easy listening music.

Mellow Classic.......2007-06-13

This album is the most melodic, soothing music I have ever listened to, and one that I continue to return to -- it is that pretty. I cannot recommend this one enough, if you want to relax or be calmed. If rap or heavy metal are more your style, this is not the one for you.

The Stuff I Did While This Album Played.......2006-05-23

This album is best known for the "Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet," which is justly beautiful and deserves your attention.

But here's the thing: Mancini was a pianist. He composed his music on piano - which benefits it a lot. The tonal and dynamic range of his best stuff comes from the versatility of the piano as an instrument, for sure.

The concept behind this album was to showcase his touch and virtuosity on piano. And it does. But, in the early 1970s, this type of music was not appreciated by many.

However, my friends and I used it a lot to establish a mood. And it was our close, close friend and ally, I can tell you for certain.

Remembering the Past.......2005-08-22

I've enjoyed this music in L.P. format for years. I'm glad to have it once again. Shipped & received in good condition. Good job.

Average customer rating: GREAT CD Cant see this being the best A brilliant 5 songs, should be more. Something You Should Listen To Some words of a french speaking guy

The Best of Alpha Blondy Alpha Blondy Manufacturer: Blue Note Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music Ivory Coast | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Reggae | Compilations | International | Styles | Music Fusion & World Fusion | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Blue Note Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Africa | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Reggae | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Jerusalem Masada Apartheid Is Nazism Serious Reggae Elohim ASIN: B000005H2R Release Date: 1996-04-02

Tracks:

1. Cocody Rock
2. Apartheid Is Nazism
3. Come Back Jesus
4. Jerusalem
5. Politiqui
6. Sweet Fanta Diallo
7. Banana
8. Cafe Cacao
9. Masada
10. Rendez-Vous
11. Yeye
12. Fulgence Kassy
13. Amour Papier Longueur
14. Rendez-Vous (Cool Summer Mix)

Customer Reviews:

GREAT CD.......2007-02-17

this dc is great i play it almost everyday. you will not regret buying it it worth the money

Cant see this being the best.......2004-12-15

This CD may have to grow on me. There is a few classic tracks. To call this CD The best of Alpha Blondy is hard to do. The high point is, The Wailers is on a few tracks. Im very new to Mr.Blondy. I was really impressed with Yitzhak Rabin. My next CD by Alpha will be, Masada

A brilliant 5 songs, should be more........2004-05-13

Alpha Blondy is a unique artist. Hailing from Africa's Ivory Coast, this talented and inspiring musician is capable of some of the most infectious and moving songs in the reggae genre. This compilation contains several of those songs. Unfortunately it also contains some very weak material as well. The first 5 songs on this c.d. are brilliant, and are almost worth the price of the c.d. alone. The problem is that one would be much better off purchasing one of his early works. My suggestion would be "Jerusalem." That being said, if you've never heard Alpha Blondy even this less than perfect compilation is a worthwhile investment.

Something You Should Listen To.......2002-03-24

So your not an Ivory Coast rocker? Well, it doesn't matter. Have you ever wondered why people listen to reggae? Did you think reggae was just Bob Marley? Well than you should pick up this album and get and education. If you are an avid reggae fan, than your collection is not complete with a little Alpha Blondy, and this album is a good place to start. They keep it irie mon, and the beats are always right on. I think there are very few groups that understand music as an international language, and Alpha Blondy understands perfectly, reaching out across the globe to all people and cultures. So do yourself a favor and pick this up, kick back, and relax...maybe even light a spliff. Other than that, this is one of the best albums I own.

Some words of a french speaking guy.......2000-07-09

What a review of that Marconi... Language is the first sign that can separate people. This discrimination is also nazim, my dear ! Hopefully Alpha blondy, however his mother tongue is not english, can break the barrier of the language to communicate.

So maybe I can advice you a nice song of Alpha Blondy, called "Armée Française", which means French Army...., you should just replace the title and the words of the song with whatever designing worst then such colonial attitude of yours. Simple words are in it as in all songs of him, but sure you will be able to understand as millions of African understand his educative message!

Average customer rating:

Ano Neko Dobet Gnahore Manufacturer: Contre Jour France ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Voice Baro Putumayo Presents: Acoustic Africa Ma Ya Foly! Live Around the World ASIN: B00019IC50 Release Date: 2004-07-13

Tracks:

1. Intro Pygm
2. Youn
3. Kakou (Je Meurs) [En B]
4. Weli
5. NsielFatigue) [En B]
6. Warabo
7. Nan (Maman) [En Malink
8. Sida
9. Atho
10. MindilLa Vie Est Belle)
11. Not
12. Nadodo
13. Flute (Intro)
14. B Djili (Esprits Bs)
15. Abiani
16. Amonbolo

Average customer rating:

Since I Met You Baby Ivory Joe Hunter Manufacturer: Collectables ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Blues | Styles | Music Traditional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music West Coast Blues | Regional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music Piano | Blues | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Blues General | Blues | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Blues General | Blues | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music General | R&B | Indie Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Blues | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: I Almost Lost My Mind The Very Best of Big Joe Turner I Remember Chuck Willis/The King of the Stroll Memorial Album Clyde McPhatter - Greatest Hits ASIN: B000EGDBME Release Date: 2006-03-28

Tracks:

1. Since I Met You Baby
2. I Got To Learn To Do The Mambo
3. A Tear Fell
4. Empty Arms
5. I Want Somebody
6. It May Sound Silly
7. Shooty Booty
8. Everytime I Hear That Song
9. You Flip Me Baby
10. You Can't Stop This Rocking And Rolling

Average customer rating: Jerusalem -Alpha Blondy Album of perfection TOP 5 REGGAE ALBUM OF ALL TIME Must have for reggae fans Mind Blowin'!!!!!!

Jerusalem Alpha Blondy Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music Ivory Coast | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Reggae | Compilations | International | Styles | Music Fusion & World Fusion | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Africa | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Reggae | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Apartheid Is Nazism The Best of Alpha Blondy Masada Cocody Rock!!! Elohim ASIN: B000000DWG Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Jerusalem
2. Politiqui
3. Bloodshed In Africa
4. I Love Paris
5. Kalachnikov Love
6. Travailler C'Est Trop Dur
7. Miwa
8. Boulevard De La Mort
9. Dji

Album Description

Import only reissue of the popular African reggae artist's 1986 album. Features 9 total tracks. EMI. 2006.

Customer Reviews:

Jerusalem -Alpha Blondy.......2006-11-10

Had not heard this in a while. What a treasure! I still love every song.
One of, if not the best of Alpha Blondy!

Album of perfection.......2006-07-05

There is not a note, lyric or rhythm I'd change on this album. It is old school reggae at its zenith. The hypnotic rhythm and heart felt lyrics are mostly of a by-gone era when the reggae meant more than the dance beat. Alpha Blondy may not hail from the islands, but who said that was a requirement? This is good reggae you can listen to over and over and still enjoy.

TOP 5 REGGAE ALBUM OF ALL TIME.......2005-12-27

For the seasoned Reggae ears, you are in for a huge treat with this CD. This is Alpha Blondy's best album hands down. If you are looking for an awesome Reggae CD that you've never heard before, this is it. Forget the Best Of album, it's not even close. I was introduced to this album back in 1991 living in Hawaii. A full blooded Hawaiian friend of mine turned me on to it, need I say what we were doing at the time? Reggae is all the Hawaiians listen to. Go to the music store on the islands and see how the Reggae section takes up the whole store. This guy was a SEASONED Reggae man. This was what he listened to 95% of the time. I fell in love at first taste. Stoney, Stoney, Stoney......

Must have for reggae fans.......2005-07-15

That the best reggae does not only come from Jamaica has been clearly pointed out by British bands such as Aswad. But a later wave of excellent reggae comes from Africa where it is blended with more traditional African rhythms and lyrics.

Who, like me, loves reggae but grows weary of the Rastafarian song texts after some time this albums is a must have.
The album is in the great tradition of Bob Marley: politically conscious lyrics with 'pure' reggae.
The music is in the tradition of Bob Marley clearly, and not only because the (remaining) Wailers accompany Ivorian Alpha Blondy.

The album is the best Alpha Blondy made (another great one is 'Apartheid is Nazism) and it is one of the best Reggae albums I am aware of.

Mind Blowin'!!!!!!.......2003-07-15

Alpha Blondy is a legend with powerful messages delivered by his beautiful voice.
I recently lost this cd and was going crazy trying to find a replacement, (at the time I was travelling). I could hear the songs in my head though, especially, "Jerusalem," that song to me is like a spiritual experience.

Average customer rating: Heaven Came Down To Earth Get out of Jail Free

Since I Met You Baby: The Best of Ivory Joe Hunter Ivory Joe Hunter Manufacturer: Razor & Tie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Blues | Styles | Music Traditional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music West Coast Blues | Regional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music Piano | Blues | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: Fats Domino Jukebox: 20 Greatest Hits the Way You Originally Heard Them I Remember Chuck Willis/The King of the Stroll ASIN: B000002Z8K Release Date: 1994-10-19

Tracks:

1. I Almost Lost My Mind
2. S.P. Blues
3. I Need You So
4. Rockin' Chair Boogie
5. I Feel So Good
6. It May Sound Silly
7. It's A Doggone Crying Shame
8. I Got To Learn To Do The Mambo
9. I Need You
10. I'll Never Leave You Baby
11. A Tear Fell
12. Heaven Came Down To Earth
13. I Want Somebody
14. I Need You By My Side
15. You Mean Everything To Me
16. Since I Met You Baby
17. Love Is A Hurting Game
18. Empty Arms
19. Worried Mind
20. All About The Blues
21. If Only You Were Here With Me
22. Shooty Booty
23. I Just Want To Love You
24. Yes I Want You
25. You Flip Me Baby

Customer Reviews:

Heaven Came Down To Earth.......2003-01-12

Part of Razor & Tie's line of terrific mid-90's retrospectives of underappriciated 50's stars (Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochran and Chuck Willis among them), "Since I Met You Baby" does exactly what those others did - namely, state the case for greater reknown. Hunter is virtually strictly remembered for the song from which this collection takes its name, a massive hit from late '56/early '57 which remains one of early rock 'n' roll's slow dance classics. More astute fans will be able to name his two 1950 R&B chart toppers, "I Almost Lost My Mind" and "I Need You So", both of which were revived mid-decade by white stars (Pat Boone, hitting #1 Pop with a surprisingly admirable version of the former, and Elvis Presley who did the latter expertly in '56 for an album). Other than that, only true historians would be able to delve deeper into Hunter's legacy.

This is the best place to start your education then. Taking 25 songs from two labels, this spans the entire 1950's, his most prolific stretch of recording, gathering up nine R&B and Pop hits, plus some truly fantasic non-charted sides to paint a fuller picture of a veteran musician who was capable of delivering in any style.

Hunter began recording back in 1933 while still a teen and by the 40's owned two record labels making him one of the first black men, and one of the first artists of any race, to run his own company. Both disappeared quickly, but not before giving him his first Number One hit ("Pretty Mama Blues" - available on other collections of his 40's work). A brief stop at King Records gave him a few more hits and by the time he landed at MGM Records in 1950 he was primed for the start of the R&B revolution that would lead to rock 'n' roll.

That's where this collection picks up. The first five cuts are from those early 50's MGM years and showcases Hunter's feathery piano, pleasant, intimate vocals and his prolific writing (he penned over 2,500 songs in his lifetime, including a few specifically written for Presley, who befriended him in 1956) all of which made Ivory Joe (which was his real name) one of the era's best R&B balladeers along with Percy Mayfield and later Johnny Ace. When rock 'n' roll dawned in the mid-50's Hunter was already past 40, but the hit cover versions of his songs by Boone, Presley, even pop stars the McGuire Sisters (busy ripping off every black R&B singer they could find, grabbing his "It May Sound Silly" for a trip to the Top 20), and Teresa Brewer (who copped "A Tear Fell" from him and took it to #5) proved he still could connect with younger audiences. As a result, now on R&B powerhouse Atlantic Records, Hunter stormed back into the spotlight with back to back smashes "Since I Met You Baby" and "Empty Arms" that made him, along with Big Joe Turner, the 1950's oldest rock 'n' roll star.

With "Empty Arms" in 1957 he resumed a flirtation with country-sounding R&B which he'd started on King Records with great success in '49 ("Jealous Heart" - #2 R&B), a move that far preceeded Ray Charles more famous groundbreaking move from R&B to C&W a few years later. Just one of the many reasons why Hunter is deserving of a Rock 'n' Roll Hall Of Fame induction for which he has thus far been shamefully denied.

This disc shows Hunter at his best - from the ballads he was most adept at and known for, but also offering him as a smokin' bluesman ("I Feel So Good") and a strong-mid-50's rocker ("I Want Somebody", "You Mean Everything To Me", "You Flip Me Baby"). The liner notes are very informative, there's a full sessionography including sidemen, recording and release dates, as well as a few pictures. It is not an album that will knock your socks off on first listen, Hunter just wasn't the kind of performer. If given a chance for repeated listening though, it will slowly sneak up on you until you find yourself uncontrollably humming "I Almost Lost My Mind" on the subway, elevator or in board meetings, (or on the school bus and playground), while people look at you oddly. Let those quizzical onlookers listen to this disc though and soon they'll be humming along too.

Get out of Jail Free.......1999-07-25

Y'all ever been in the doghouse with your significant other? Take a tip from a cop who does, chum and learn to sing 'Since I met you Baby' like Ivory Joe Hunter, and you MIGHT survive if you'll pipe up at the right time. Any fool can sing it (trust me) but nobody sings it like Ivory Joe. This is almost as good as wearing a kevlar vest (you just can't trust those gals from Texas). Lots cheaper, too. Seriously, that one cut makes the whole CD, there's other goodies on here, you too can learn to do the mambo. But 'Since I Met You Baby' is the real Get Out Of Jail Free Card.

Average customer rating: metalhead on medicare Incorporate the Old with the New

The Ivory Tower Takota Manufacturer: Ares Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Glam | Classic Rock | Styles | Music ASIN: B000EWBMOC Release Date: 2006-05-16

Tracks:

1. The Ivory Tower
2. Satellite
3. Lioness
4. City Drugs
5. Diary
6. Turn Up The Radio
7. Paperheart
8. Mayday Mayday
9. Little Honesty
10. Carpark

Product Description

1. The Ivory Tower
2. Satellite
3. Lioness
4. City Drugs
5. Diary
6. Turn Up The Radio
7. Paperheart
8. Mayday Mayday
9. Little Honesty
10. Carpark

Format: CD

Customer Reviews:

metalhead on medicare.......2006-06-09

Without any question one of the most thrilling albums of this or any year. Grant Arnow`s vocals will take you back to Journey and Queensryche and a number of other great 80`s performers.The band as a whole is marvelous, and that`s an understatement. Buy this album now and tell your friends. If these guys make it, we will have been there first. One more time: This is a truly great surprise[think Boston,Pump,Back in Black,Appetite for Destruction].

Incorporate the Old with the New.......2006-05-18

A masterpiece of bringing the old with the new. Vocalist, Grant Arnow, brings a reminiscence of old hair bands similar to Dokken and a hint of something more modern like Chiodos. Aside from the current uprising and flash-flood of hardcore, screamo and transformed metal, these guys have taken a route of something more mellow and even appeasing to "old-timer parents." Their style could be easily unexpected knowing that Atreyu drummer, Brandon Saller, produced the album. Former Reel Big Fish drummer, Justin Ferreira, and once striving Varota bassist, Danny Roddy, and guitarists, Andrew Lara and Brett Anderson, complete the musical roundup of pedal shifting and techish simplistics to create a spectacular debut album and a guaranteed forthcoming of not-so-cliched mainstream radio and televised airplay. Track 6, "Turn Up the Radio," is definitely a recommended crowd anthem.

Average customer rating: fun groove, lyrically weak I Love You, Mr. Blondy Amazing Apartheid Is Nazism BIGTIME!!

Apartheid Is Nazism Alpha Blondy Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music Ivory Coast | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Reggae | Compilations | International | Styles | Music Fusion & World Fusion | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Africa | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Reggae | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Jerusalem Cocody Rock!!! Masada Live Au Zenith The Best of Alpha Blondy ASIN: B000000DW7 Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Afriki
2. Jah Houphouet
3. Apartheid Is Nazism
4. Idjidja
5. Sahel
6. Sebe Allah Y'e
7. Kiti
8. Come Back Jesus
9. Djinamory

Customer Reviews:

fun groove, lyrically weak.......2006-07-26

This album is fun to listen to, and has a great reggae feel to it, but doesn't show Alpha's songwriting ability, in my opinion. Perhaps he's trying to reach a Western Anglophone audience, but his English lyrics didn't do much for me.

I Love You, Mr. Blondy.......2006-06-18

This man and his musicians, to me, are among the best artists, leaders, spiritual teachers, healers EVER to walk the earth. I give thanks for their work.

Amazing.......2005-03-19

This record is fantastic. It is one of the best albums that I have in my collection.

Apartheid Is Nazism.......2003-03-05

This Album is a must for any serious Reagee fan, world music appreciator or just someone with good taste for rythm and lyric that stimulate the mind and ear! I can not imagine anyone being dissapointed with this album, it will deliver you a lifetime of enjoyment

BIGTIME!!.......2002-03-21

Every song on this cd is great bottom line!! If you like reggae and who the hell doesn't, add this to your collection!! This is by far Alpha's best album! If you like Bob then get this, TRUST ME you will enjoy this album and will play it constantly!! Alpha is a nice break from Marley since he is unfortunatly overplayed! The cd is cheap for the quality of music. I do recommend you get this cd before the greatest hits cd, because Alpha's best songs (my opinion) are on this cd. ENJOY!!

Jazz Music:

1. Jazz Samba
2. Jubilee [Live]
3. Juggernaut [Live]
4. Kansas City Breaks
5. Lament
6. Legacy
7. Lennie Niehaus, Vol. 1: The Quintets
8. Live at Butler University (1972) [Live]
9. Live at the Cafe Carlyle [Live]
10. Live at the Concord Jazz Festival [Live]

Jazz Music

jazz music