Paranoid [Limited Edition]

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com essential recording
Though most of Black Sabbath's classic material from this album ("War Pigs," "Iron Man," "Fairies Wear Boots," and the title track) can also be found on the collection We Sold Our Soul for Rock & Roll, Paranoid is essential for the completist. One of the best albums from one of the bands to define heavy metal, this album is chock-full of the best stuff from Sabbath's Osbourne years. (Where else will you be able to hear "Rat Salad?") The music isn't exactly complex, but it doesn't need to be; its importance lies in its evocative power, with which any teenager will be able to identify. --Genevieve Williams --This text refers to the Audio CD edition.

Tracks:

War Pigs/Luke's Wall
Paranoid
Planet Caravan
Iron Man
Electric Funeral
Hand Of Doom
Rat Salad
Jack The Stripper/Fairies Wear Boots

Amazon.com essential recording

Though most of Black Sabbath's classic material from this album ("War Pigs," "Iron Man," "Fairies Wear Boots," and the title track) can also be found on the collection We Sold Our Soul for Rock & Roll, Paranoid is essential for the completist. One of the best albums from one of the bands to define heavy metal, this album is chock-full of the best stuff from Sabbath's Osbourne years. (Where else will you be able to hear "Rat Salad?") The music isn't exactly complex, but it doesn't need to be; its importance lies in its evocative power, with which any teenager will be able to identify. --Genevieve Williams

Customer Reviews:

Missing a Digit.......2007-07-19

I believe it was Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath fame who played his guitar with the use of only three fingers. Fact or fiction?

There are no flowers in Birmingham.......2007-07-15

It's amazing that this band existed during the era of "flower power" and peace and love. On the other hand, maybe that IS the reason they existed. In any event, you should have this record, if only as a reference point for "heavy metal". I like it, even though I'm more of a jazz/blues cat.

Sabbath finds their groove.......2007-07-11

Many would argue that this is the best Sabbath collection ever created. I would agree in that this is the Black Sabbath showcase, the mold, the direction for which all later releases would follow. Where the superb debut album lacked direction, "Paranoid" picks up the slack: Ozzy found his vocal style niche, and the album's production and sound were now nailed down; we now hear well structured, polished songs rather than extended, sometimes aimless jams. It is hard not to compare this to the debut album since they were released within such a short period of time. To be fair, "Paranoid" almost sounds like a different band. That's not to say the first album was poorly made, just different, perhaps even a bit more creative....Sabbath finding their way. Some may actually prefer the more raw debut effort, with it's "dirty" loose jam feel. With Paranoid, it's almost as if Sabbath were brought in off the street and given a shower, fresh new clothing, haircuts and a shave; the band was now flying in formation, and as a result, the songs as a whole are just a bit more listenable than the prior effort. Although most have heard this album countless times since its release, to this day it is hard to deny the magnitude of the triple punch of War Pigs, Paranoid, Iron Man and then Fairies Wear Boots on side two when first heard. Side one of the vinyl, with the exception of "Planet Caravan" goes down as downright brilliant, albeit some may say musically overly simplistic. The lesser known songs are also a treat, such as "Electric Funeral". All in all, no hard rock record/cd collection should be without "Paranoid".

The founders of a genre.......2007-06-24

There is absolutely no reason this album should not be rated 5 stars. It should be 6 stars, probably 7. Its Sgt Pepper for metal.

Tony Iommi lost the ends of his fingertips, he shouldn't even be able to play the guitar. I imagine they'll make a movie out of this fact someday. For those of you who wonder how someone with prosthetics plays, he downtuned his guitar (the 'heavy' sound) and played riffs. These two things established the sound of an entire genre that the world now labels as 'metal'. Can anyone other band lay claim to something like that?

Ozzy gets extremely lucky, first with Iommi, then Rhoads, now Wylde.

Anyway, even if you don't dig metal as much as me or anyone else, you might still enjoy this. War Pigs, Paranoid, and Iron Man. The most famous Sabbath songs, all on one little disc thats so old you can get it dirt cheap now.

War Pigs also showcases on of the best guitar solos ever.

No Explanation or Introduction Needed for This Masterpiece.......2007-06-21

If every single C.D. in the world was to be wiped off the earth, but I was allowed to keep just one album, "Paranoid" would be that album. That's how strongly I feel about this album, and that's how utterly vital I believe this band is and how much I respect Black Sabbath. Ozzy, Tony, Geezer, and Bill were (and still are) four hard-working, blue-collar gentlemen, who appreciated a good tune and a stiff drink as much as you or I. They respected the `peace and happiness' thing that all the other bands were singing about, but they wanted the other side of life (the dark and depressing side) to make an appearance as well. Their environment and lives were shown through the music that they created (which was very misunderstood), and it definitely worked for A LOT of people. Say what you want about the band, whether you praise and exalt them or ridicule their guts out, because not one solitary person can deny Sabbath's contributions to the metal genre and their influence on every single metal band in the business...PERIOD! Since their inception, Sabbath have been creating historical and monumental work, significantly making their mark on the music industry in more ways than one could ever imagine. And what makes me sick is the so-called metal fans saying stuff like "oh yeah, Paranoid's an okay album, but it's just so overrated" or "sure the songs on there are {hip} enough, but they get overplayed so much it's repulsive". Hell, if anything, Paranoid doesn't get ENOUGH credit in our society, and about the songs being overplayed, chew on this thought. Those of you who agree with this reviewer, remember the very first time you heard Paranoid. Whether that golden year was in 1970, '80, '90, 2007, or whatever, just close your eyes and think back to the feelings you felt when this inexplicable album was spinning. The throbbing your neck endured after head banging to the title track, the raspy and sore feeling in your throat after singing along to "War Pigs", the chills and goose bumps you got when the main riff for "Electric Funeral" was underway, or how about the disappointment of having to buy new speakers after "Iron Man" blew out your old ones. Yes, all of those feelings (and many more) are why you immediately adored this album and in turn treasured it in your hearts forever. I'm here, not to urge everyone to buy this album (because if you truly love metal, then you already own this), but to restore the admiration that one should feel about this incredible album, and to reinstate the motto that Sabbath started so long ago: "We sold our souls for rock n roll"!

Hold Me to This: Christopher O'Riley Plays Radiohead

Average customer rating:

this has the depth you need...
Oddly Boring
a bit disappointing
Cocktail Party Radiohead
Good effort

Hold Me to This: Christopher O'Riley Plays Radiohead

Manufacturer: World Village
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0007TFI4W
Release Date: 2005-04-12

Tracks:

There There
(Nice Dream)
No Surprises
Polyethylene Part II
How I Made My Millions
Like Spinning Plates
Sail To The Moon
The Tourist
Cuttooth
2+2=5
Talk Show Host
Gagging Order
Paranoid Android
Street Spirit (Fade Out)

Amazon.com

Tribute albums are always suspect; classical interpretations of rock even more so--and follow-ups to the same are fraught with mediocrity. Just witness the inexplicable glut of String Quartet Tribute discs to Tool, Bruce Springsteen, and many other top-selling and cult artists. On Hold Me to This, his second run at the music of art-rock group Radiohead, classical pianist Christopher O'Riley avoids all these pitfalls. These aren't easy-listening piano renditions of Radiohead tunes, but deeply inspired, often challenging and dissonant re-imaginings. O'Riley succeeds by taking the music on its own terms. He doesn't try to make it "classical" but lets the classical nature of the music ring out. From the storming chordal overtone clusters of "There There" to the Chopinesque refrain of "The Spinning Plates," O'Riley makes you forget these songs were originally played by a raging rock band. Instead, they seem born on the keys of his piano. His "Paranoid Android" is like Conlon Nancarrow going boogie-woogie one moment and painfully, sweetly rhapsodic the next. I'm not sure how Radiohead fans will respond to this, but piano and classical listeners should rejoice. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

this has the depth you need..........2007-02-17

I don't believe you need to be ga-ga over Radiohead to enjoy this CD. This CD, it's all piano (w/o vocals) if you didn't already know that going in, will provide an even deeper appreciation of the textures & depth of the Radiohead catalog. Mr. O'Riley does takes some artistic liberties with the songs, albeit minor, but in so doing he unleashes the potential they all have. And this potential is truly staggering---some selections are nothing short of gorgeous.
Hold me to this: you WILL be floored by this CD. it's well worth the purchase.

Oddly Boring.......2006-07-16

I adore Radiohead, and really enjoy solo piano. I should love this disc, but I don't. Even though the wonderful creepiness of Radiohead is completely absent, I would be willing to chalk that up to artistic interpretation. But that's not what bugs me about this disc. What really bugs me is his style of playing. He relies on resonance and the transcript is completely devoid of silence. The result is a droning wall of notes, and all the pieces sound the same. It reminds me of Windham Hill recordings, but without the expression. Get Yorke's new album, Eraser, if you need a Radiohead fix, or get George Winston if you want solo Piano. I really wish I could recommend this, but I just can't.

a bit disappointing.......2006-07-11

O'Riley takes some liberties here, and that's fine. I'm a bit disappointed by his dynamic range, which is a bit predictable from song to song, and also with his tendency to overload the songs with schizophrenic ramblings. The craziness works well at times -- see "There There" for a time when it works well -- and other times it is overwhelming (see: "Nice Dream").

Despite a sometimes overloaded sound, the song list is so attractive and O'riley hits so many high notes (if you will..) that the CD is well worth owning. I prefer the "True Love Waits" album.

Cocktail Party Radiohead.......2006-03-21

I own the first Christopher O'Reily Radiohead Tribute - True Love Waits. If you love his stunning piano in that, or if you love stunning piano altogether, you will love Hold Me To This. I am an avid lover of all things Radiohead turned into wordless music lullabyes and this one does not dissapoint.

Good effort.......2006-03-02

Sound all the same...listen to the samples before you buy it. If your a fan of radiohead you wont like it...if your a fan of the piano you wont like it. But I give my respect to the musician for making the effort to replicate already beutiful music.

Average customer rating:

Delicious!!
Excellent CD!
Surprising and Refreshing
an old friend, a new friend
Plenty of hooks

Sunlight Makes Me Paranoid
Elefant
Manufacturer: Kemado
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Black Magic Show
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ASIN: B00008NRL3
Release Date: 2003-04-08

Tracks:

Make Up
Now That I Miss Her
Misfit
Bokkie
Tonight Let's Dance
Static On Channel 4
Sunlight Makes Me Paranoid
Annie
Love
Ester

Amazon.com

If you like the Strokes, you should be spending this week's CD allowance on Elefant's first full-length recording. This New York- based band has the same angular, punchy guitar and bass, sticky melodies, ennui-filled boy vocals, and pointed lyrics as the Strokes. But with Elefant, you get a little Brit-pop flavor from vocalist Diego Garcia (originally from Argentina but sounding British). Catchy arrangements grab you right away with the opener, "Make Up," and by track three, "Misfit," you know the ebullient style of guitarist Mod is going to stick in your head long after the CD stops playing. "Bokkie" is tailor-made for radio but is completely fresh and irresistible, and in a similar vein, "Love" bristles with a pop energy that's both understated and relentless. --Lorry Fleming

Customer Reviews:

Delicious!!.......2007-06-15

This is one of the best albums I have heard in a long time - intelligent, funny lyrics, and a cool 1980's, David Bowie sensibility. What more could you ask for? Haunting, catchy lyrics that will ensnare you in their cotton candy web of deliciousness? Your wish is granted . . .

Excellent CD!.......2005-11-20

Sure, this CD may offer sounds similar to those of the Strokes, but Elefant throws in some of their own moods, sounds, and ideas to a sound that only grazes the Strokes. Setting alone by itself, this CD is a masterpiece of beautifully crafted melodies that just leave you breathless and asking for more. When I first started listening to this CD, I pushed the repeat button because I knew I would want to listen to this CD at least three times through. And in the course of the first 24 hours of owning this CD, I listened to it near to 6 times. I absolutely love this CD and it is a great addition to anyone's music collection. This is great for any indie fans, but I think anyone should at least try this CD once.

Surprising and Refreshing.......2005-09-30

I got this a while ago. It's really quite a fun album. The basslines are dreamy, the singer's voice is melodic and lilting.

This album starts on a fun, romantic note with the song, "Make Up". Seems to be about love and sex and being yourself. I really can't tell because the lyrics are all over the place, but this is one of my favorite songs on the disc.

It continues in that general vein. The disc then moves on to "Now That I Miss Her" which is definitely a fun track. They have that melancholy yet upbeat sound down perfectly.

I really can't say enough good things about this. However, I think YOU, the intelligent buyer, should trust your instincts. You have my words here, singing it's praise...but it all comes down to YOU. What do YOU want?

I wanted this.

an old friend, a new friend.......2005-09-24

this cd is so, so good. the first five tracks especially are top. they have great sounds and lyrics that seem familiar, like old friends you grew up with. but their sound is also just original enough that it's also like that new best friend you want to spend all your days getting to know better. one of my favorites of the year.

Plenty of hooks.......2005-08-09

Yes, they have the New York Sound. I can say that I REALLY don't like the Strokes, but I love this cd, and their 1st ep as well. For those that think these guys are just imitating what's popular out there (someone mentioned the Bravery), please know that this cd is already 2 and a half years old, so they're part of the original NYC lineup. If you know and like Longwave and Interpol, I think you'll like this cross-breed of the two, mixed with more danceable new wave moments. This is summer music for sure.

Average customer rating:

OLP's Sgt. Pepper's
This review is not intended to comment on the disc itself or the company that issued it

Healthy In Paranoid Times
Our Lady Peace
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000CMNJEA
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Tracks:

Angels/Losing/Sleep
Will The Future Blame Us
Picture
Where Are You
Wipe That Smile Off Your Face
Love And Trust
Boy
Apology
The World On A String
Don't Stop
Walking In Circles
Al Genina (Leave The Light On)

Amazon.com

While Our Lady Peace's lead singer, Raine Maida, can be accused of writing rather cryptic lyrics, the liner notes of the new OLP CD are anything but subtle. The artwork kicks off with the statement "1165 days were needed to record Healthy In Paranoid Times"; the remaining pages show no lyrics or band shots, just statistics varying from how many people died of AIDS in that span of time (9.8 million) to how much money was spent on the arms trade ($3 trillion). Time spent by Raine and wife Chantal Kreviazuk overseas with the War Child charity have deeply affected the singer and it shows. On Healthy, the band's music is orchestral right from the get-go. "Angels/Losing/Sleep" jumps from quiet, fragile moments to emo-implosions, not only showcasing Raine's unique vocals, but also how undercurrents of combative guitar solos can turn a simple melody into something wonderfully unsettling, a true OLP trait. The group's frenetic first single, "Where Are You" is singer Maida's plea to a society enshrouded in indulgence, while "Boy" has the raw passion of early U2, with the song rising to a joyful, moving climax. One of the disc's strongest tracks is "Don't Stop." While not mimicking Radiohead or Coldplay, the group seems to embrace the like-minded love of turning a four-minute melody into something more orchestral and emotional, a thread consistent throughout this well-crafted disc. --Denise Sheppard

Customer Reviews:

OLP's Sgt. Pepper's.......2006-07-20

I first got this album when it first came out around a year ago. During this past year I have had a chance to completely digest the album and have come to the conclusion that this is Our Lady Peace's masterpiece. Every single song is a jewel. There is not a boring spot on this album. Blending great musicianship with scathing political commentary OLP has made an album that will definitely go down in history as one of their best. Standing out on the album are the songs "Angels/Losing/Sleep", "Don't Stop", and "World on a String".

This review is not intended to comment on the disc itself or the company that issued it.......2005-12-14

When you realize that a band like Our Lady Peace has been together for over a decade, it should make sense that they just will not sound the same. No band in existance has maintained the same sound album to album, and if they have, they didn't do very well. People like change, growth, maturity. They like different topics, they like seeing their fallen heroes rise again, they like seeing bad guys getting what's coming to them, and they like seeing those that once stood offstage finally take charge of their destiny and make themselves heard.

Throughout their career, Our Lady Peace has always fallen short of the explosion in the American market that so many Canadians get. They are HUGE in Canada, but not here. Many suppose that this was the reasoning for hiring Bob Rock as their producer and putting out the album Gravity (which is why a crucial member of their line-up left, that was the creative difference). Most OLP fans hate the album, but I can't share that sentiment. Regardless of their subject matter, regardless of how unique they are or aren't playing, I hear the same things coming from that group. Whether it be the musical dissonance that we've come to expect, or an interesting, dark twist on an old favorite...OLP has never failed to deliver to me songs that hit me in just the right way.

However, when I first picked up Healthy in Paranoid Times...I was REALLY disappointed. Had they gone too far? Was it possible that this was, in fact, their worst album? I wasn't ready to believe it, and I did actually find a few songs that I really really enjoyed. But overall, I just couldn't connect, you know? I felt left out, a place I've never felt with them before.

And then I went to see them perform at the 9:30 club in DC. It was very exciting for me, because the last performance of theirs I attended was on the date that Happiness was released. So yeah, it had been a while. They didn't perform my old favorites the way I remembered, and to be honest, I forgot some of the lyrics. But that didn't stop me from tearing up. I was connecting, I was rediscovering something I truly loved, and I was finding new material to love. They did some rather unexpected pieces from the new album. I didn't expect to enjoy "Boy" as much as I did. Nor did I think "Wipe That Smile Off Your Face" would be such a crowd favorite, but it was. The songs from their new album got the crowd really going, and you could see just who was a hardcore OLP fans from the ones who "remembered their glory days". They were the ones singing passionately to old *and* new songs alike.

So I took another listen. Maybe, just maybe, this was better than I thought. And yeah, it was.

First of all, "Angels/Losing/Sleep" may be the dumbest way to give us a song title, but the song itself is stunning. From the bayou twang of the opening guitar to the heavy bass falling in afterwards, to Raine's voice belting out some very odd lyrics, this song had me hooked. I'm glad I took the time to really listen to it, because this is an instant classic in my book.

"Where Are You", the first single off this album, is amazing. The lyrics are actually quite clever. "Tonight, did Punk Rock get it right, is there no future in sight? Is it different, now, is it different?" It's energetic, something which isn't a real OLP staple, but it's definitely something I can happily stomach.

"Wipe That Smile Off Your Face" is one of the angriest songs I've heard from them, and watching Raine shake on stage as he uttered those words into the microphone was chilling. He looked mortifyingly angry. It's such a wonderful song, I love listening to it when I am angry, it lets me vent.

Now Im not up on Raine's personal life, although I know he is married to Chantal Kreviazuk. If they had a child, I'd understand what he said at the concert about "Boy" being about one of those amazing unexpected moments in your life. I can't really be sure. But the song itself is heartfelt, and a pleasant listen.

"The World on a String" is another departure from style for them, but again, it works. It's fun to listen to, not too difficult to learn the lyrics, and nice to sing to. Definitely a good track.

"Don't Stop" is dirty dirty dirty! I never expected lyrics like this from them, but I don't mind! Good job, guys!

Those are the standout tracks, but the nice thing about music is that you form your own bond with your own selection of tracks. What I say here is simply my own personal experience. I do, however, highly recommend this to anyone (yes, even you), if to do nothing else than form your own bonds with the songs of your choice.

Average customer rating:

One Of the Greatest Albums Of All Time!
A Hard Rock Classic
Classic Album from the Darker Side of Metal
Sabbath's masterpiece
Paranoid

Paranoid
Black Sabbath
Manufacturer: Sanctuary UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00022TPSY
Release Date: 2004-05-31

Tracks:

War Pigs
Paranoid
Planet Caravan
Iron Man
Electric Funeral
Hand of Doom
Rat Salad
Fairies Wear Boots

Album Description

Digitally remastered 1996 reissue on Castle of the metalmonster's second album. Originally released in 1970, themulti-platinum reached #12 in the U.S., largely in part tothe hits 'War Pigs', 'Iron Man' and the title smash. Takenfrom the original master tapes, this edition also containsfaithfully restored artwork. Eight tracks total.

Album Details

Remastered from Original Master Tapes with Faithfully Restored Artwork.

Customer Reviews:

One Of the Greatest Albums Of All Time!.......2006-03-28

There is a reason why many people, fans and non-fans alike, put this album in their greatest albums of all time list. It is simply a complete masterpiece. The truth is that the first six albums by Black Sabbath are all 5 star quality without a single weak song on any of them. However, "Paranoid" stands out as the best of that group.

1. War Pigs-5/5. Another one of those "everybody knows this one" songs. Excellent lyrics about politicians who make war for profit. Not exactly an anti-war song. The music is superb and the vocals by Ozzy are haunting. Perfect.
2. Paranoid-5/5. This is the classic rock radio song. It gets played on every classic rock station across the nation at least once a day. Fast paced rocker with great lyrics and vocals.
3. Planet Caravan-5/5. Beautiful atmospheric song with bongo drums and acoustic guitar. The vocal effects make this song very haunting. It is a totally unique listening experience. Pantera's version is also great.
4. Iron Man-5/5. The song that cemented Iommi's reputation as the ultimate riff-master, and he hasn't been dethroned yet. One of the wildest and heaviest guitar riffs ever. Weird sci-fi lyrics with great vocals.
5. Electric Funeral-4/5. Another great song. Excellent heavy riff with some great gloom and doom lyrics. The only downfall to this is Ozzy's vocals. They aren't as perfect as they are on the rest of the songs. Still great, though.
6. Hand of Doom-5/5. Great bass line from Geezer. Slow and soft in the beginning that quickly turns heavy and sinister with another spectacular vocal performance from Ozzy.
7. Rat Salad-3/5. The one and only weak link on the album. An instrumental that isn't particularly great, but not too bad either. Thankfully, it's very short, so there is no real need to pass it.
8. Fairies Wear Boots-5/5. An earlier reviewer said this song was about neo-Nazis. I've never heard that before. My impression was that this was about an LSD trip that Geezer had, but I don't know that for sure. Whatever the case, the lyrics are weird, but the vocals are perfect and the music is quite trippy.

All in all, this is one of those few albums that actually comes close to complete perfection. No one with any appreciation of music, especially rock, should be without it.

A Hard Rock Classic.......2005-08-03

30+ years ago "Paranoid" was unleashed upon an unsuspecting world, the second album for Black Sabbath after their debut album "Black Sabbath". The late 60s and early 70s were a great time for experimentation, and rock was heading all over the place as various groups pushed the limits of what rock could be and where it could lead.

Paranoid remains a good album after 30+ years, a remarkable feat. "War Pigs" and "Iron Man" are considered primers for metal music, which we called hard rock in those ancient days, with a very basic bass, lead guitar, and drums sound, and the gritty, earthy voice of the Oz-man.

Of course some parents and many religious leaders pounced on the group's name and some of their lyrics. On the other hand, the current-day version of these same people complain that Harry Potter promotes witchcraft.

The lyrics in this album are mild, almost mainstream by today's standards. Furthermore, the lyrics are not all that breakthrough or novel, but when the lyrics are coupled with the music and Ozzy's voice, you have what was in 1971 a breakthrough album that sold very well, in spite of nearly zero radio play (except on the infamous, but not really, underground FM stations).

What else is on this album? "Planet Caravan" is a spacey tune that is a psychedelic rock holdover from the late 60s. I enjoy this song with its synthesized voice and mellow mood. "Electric Funeral" is another hard rocker in the vein of "War Pigs" and "Iron Man." The transition in this song is solid hard rock, bridging a relatively slow beginning to a brief lead guitar solo that takes off into a screamer...and then back to the slow beat of the intro. Ozzy is nearly singing a dirge at the beginning and end of the song, but that's also the point of the song.

"Hand of Doom" starts with the bass, adding drums and then Ozzy's voice. After the intro the lead guitar thrusts into the song and Ozzy starts putting himself into the song. The song switches back and forth between the bass/drums/mellow Oz to heavy bass, lead guitar, drums and Ozzy's full voice. Then the song suddenly changes so that it's almost like a completely different song, another hard rocker that may be the most metal song on the CD. Then about two minutes from the end of the song the speed slows down in a reprise of the beginning. By the way, this song is about drugs; the images are not positive.

Next you've got "Rat Salad." This song is an instrumental, the excellent drum work (turn up the bass!) setting you up for the last song.

I love "Fairies Wear Boots." I realize the lyrics are borderline corny, but on the other hand here's Ozzy singing about somebody who's clearly having a trip (chemically induced). Fortunately for many of us, the song is all the trip we need and the chemistry set is not required. This song is fun and good and has excellent riffs and bass.

Music has changed a lot in 30 years. But some things remain the same. This album is one of them. I hope I enjoy it 30 years from now as much as I enjoy it today.

Classic Album from the Darker Side of Metal.......2005-03-28

Paranoid (1970.), Black Sabbath's second studio album

'Paranoid' was a work like no other at the time of its release. The quartet of Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Toni Iommi (Guitar), Geezer Butler (Bass) and Bill Ward (Drums) after their self titled debut at the turn of the '70's put together this heavy-metal work of art. Black Sabbath are rightly credited as the main band which pioneered the heavy metal sound - their style was very revolutionary for its time. They were light years ahead of quite a lot of bands and their heavy, powerful style was something which only became more commonplace towards the end of the 70's/start of the 80's. Perhaps the only contemporary early 70's bands which came close to their style was Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin (with some of their more heavier stuff) and a handful of other bands.

You've gotta respect this band for the changing musical direction they started. At the time, they were heavily criticised by plenty of rather 'conservative' critics who really didn't know what to make of the band's music. Black Sabbath at the time were and sometimes still are misinterpreted as a band of devil worshippers when the reality is that the message they really portray in their music is that of a reaction to war, crime and plenty of other issues that trouble the world. People who often view Black Sabbath in a negative and suspicious light haven't listened to them (especially their lyrics) carefully enough and simply write them off. True, their style is quite dark on the whole but it is the ideal way to create the atmosphere for the lyrics. Atmospherics are definitely a strong point of Black Sabbath and you'll feel this when you listen to them and they have a very good knack at leaving gaps in their music (done to perfection in parts on Paranoid) which gives their music great suspense. There's very little to say about Ozzy Osbourne that lots of people haven't said, the man is a legend - unique as a vocalist. Couple this with the amazing power chords of Toni Iommi's guitar, the ever present bass lines from Geezer Butler and the great 'War Drums' style from Bill Ward and you have a much more than capable line up.

Onto the album music itself. 'War Pigs' is a powerful, moving 8 minute opener about the ills of war and the 'game like' attitude of politicians. There's plenty of memorable riffs in this tune alone, great effects too and rounds off at the end with a whirlwind finish. 'Paranoid' follows this, a track that even people who have the remotest intetest in rock have heard. For me, this track is equaled by at least 4 other tracks on the album but its stands still as a testament to the heavy metal sound with Ozzy's echoing vocals sounding around a great but remarkably simple guitar riff. 'Planet Caravan' follows this and we have a change of mood here - Ozzy's vocals are more mysterious here and it makes a very haunting track. The song rounds off with a brilliant guitar solo - I can't understand why a lot of people diss this track, it adds another dimension to a great album and has great atmospherics. If things couldn't get any better, 'Iron Man' follows this - you hear the thudding at the start, followed by that ripper of a guitar chord then 'I AM IRON MAN!' brilliant - a great riff (again) characterises the track from then on with great vocals.

The first half of the album is a monster start and then we have 'Electric Funeral', a bit downbeat in tone at the start but develops into another heavy rocker with some wailing guitar work in time to Ozzy's vocals. 'Hand of Doom' is more thoughtful but build into a good climax - listen out for the anti war references again - Ozzy makes his views heard on the Vietnam war, which was still happening at the time of the album. 'Rat Salad' is a drum showcase, reminiscent of 'Moby Dick' from Led Zeppelin II. A good break up track with some very good drumming from Bill Ward. 'Fairies Wear Boots' sounds out the album, a track which cleverly develops into different parts, a bit catchy - listen out for some great bass playing making a great thick texture to this track.

As you can see, I have plenty to say about this album - cos its so so good. Never pass off this band, like other 70's bands, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, these guys are pioneers of a changing direction in rock and you never get tired of listening to them. A must for any metal fan.

Sabbath's masterpiece.......2004-11-05

That's a nice review there, Mr Jacko Monteo. I'm sure Steve Huey from Allmusic.com was proud of it when he wrote it.
Anyway. This is Black Sabbath's best and most famous album, and I'm sure that hardcore Sabbath fans would like to pelt me with hard objects for giving it only four stars.
Well, I'm just not that big a fan is all.

But there is no doubt that this album sums up Sabbath's appeal perfectly, from the driving "Paranoid" (a UK #4 single) to the cartoonishly macabre "Iron Man". It's not excactly subtle, but Black Sabbath wasn't about subtlety; their drug-and-drink-fueled Dungeons & Dragons-like imagery were just what the angry teenager ordered some 34 years ago, and "Paranoid" is one album which demands to be played LOUD!
The sludgy anti-war song "War Pigs" and the two aforementioned singles (dealing with insanity and the supernatural respectively) are three of Sabbath's best-known songs, and three of their best as well, and while "Paranoid" doesn't maintain quite that level of quality all the way through, it still ranks among the absolute classics of the genre.
A must-have for fans.

Paranoid.......2004-06-27

Paranoid was not only Black Sabbath's most popular record (it was a number one smash in the U.K., and "Paranoid" and "Iron Man" both scraped the U.S. charts despite virtually nonexistent radio play), it also stands as one of the greatest and most influential heavy metal albums of all time. Paranoid refined Black Sabbath's signature sound -- crushingly loud, minor-key dirges loosely based on heavy blues-rock -- and applied it to a newly consistent set of songs with utterly memorable riffs, most of which now rank as all-time metal classics. Where the extended, multi-sectioned songs on the debut sometimes felt like aimless jams, their counterparts on Paranoid have been given focus and direction, lending an epic drama to now-standards like "War Pigs" and "Iron Man" (which sports one of the most immediately identifiable riffs in metal history). The subject matter is unrelentingly, obsessively dark, covering both supernatural/sci-fi horrors and the real-life traumas of death, war, nuclear annihilation, mental illness, drug hallucinations, and narcotic abuse. Yet Sabbath makes it totally convincing, thanks to the crawling, muddled bleakness and bad-trip depression evoked so frighteningly well by their music. Even the qualities that made critics deplore the album (and the group) for years increase the overall effect -- the technical simplicity of Ozzy Osbourne's vocals and Tony Iommi's lead guitar vocabulary; the spots when the lyrics sink into melodrama or awkwardness; the lack of subtlety and the infrequent dynamic contrast. Everything adds up to more than the sum of its parts, as though the anxieties behind the music simply demanded that the band achieve catharsis by steamrolling everything in its path, including its own limitations. Monolithic and primally powerful, Paranoid defined the sound and style of heavy metal more than any other record in rock history.

Average customer rating:

Great Album!
You're too cool to be smart, but that is what you are...
Criminally Ignored
Skin Rocks
Pre-great noise

Paranoid and Sunburnt
Skunk Anansie
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Stoosh
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Post Orgasmic Chill

ASIN: B000002B6V
Release Date: 1995-09-19

Tracks:

Selling Jesus
Intellectualize My Blackness
I Can Dream
Little Baby Swastikkka
All In The Name Of Pity
Charity
It Takes Blood & Guts To Be This Cool But I'm Still Just A Cliche
Weak
And Here I Stand
100 Ways To Be A Good Girl
Rise Up

Amazon.com

While everyone around them was celebrating resolutely white-boy, hedonistic, 1960s-inspired Britpop, the four Londoners who make up Skunk Anansie released a multiracial, politically-charged debut in 1995 that owed a greater debt to the funk-rock of Sly & the Family Stone and Living Colour and to the metal mightiness of prime Black Sabbath. Lyrically, in "Intellectualize My Blackness" and the "100 Ways to Be a Good Girl," vocalist Skin directly confronts prejudice and throws it back in the faces of its vessels. "Selling Jesus" and "I Can Dream" showcase her voice pretty much at the height of its power. Indeed, Paranoid & Sunburnt captures the band in top form. --Everett True

Customer Reviews:

Great Album!.......2007-03-16

The first person to review this album must have been listening to a different album. This is far better than their next album. This one is great! This is also one of the greatest female fronted bands I have ever heard!

You're too cool to be smart, but that is what you are..........2006-06-10

It does take blood and guts to be this cool, but Skunk Anansie surely aren't a cliche. In fact, they were probably one of the best British acts of the 90s, and quite possibly one of my favorite artists period. The band formed in 1994, just one year before they were signed to One Little Indian/Epic and released their '95 debut, and the fact that they got their act together so quickly and at such a young age wrote one of the best albums of that year astounds me.

Skunk Anansie (who sadly disbanded in 2001) were originally comprised of vocalist Skin, guitarist Ace, and bassist Cass. Mark Richardson, currently in Feeder, would become the band's drummer later on. Nothing quite like Skunk existed at this time - few multiracial, aggro-rock bands could be found aside from Rage Against the Machine, and the British music scene, populated by such silliness as the Spice Girls, wasn't exactly in its healthiest state. Many credit such bands as Radiohead and Placebo as singlehandedly keeping British music alive throughout the nineties; however, Skunk Anansie in my opinion offered the biggest wake-up call.

The black, bald, British woman Skin (who Sevendust fans are likely to recognize *hint hint*) and her soulful voice (not to mention funky attitude) were the heart of SA's music, and gave the band an extra edge that would even attract the attention of Icelandic diva Bjork, who personally requested the band to perform an alternate version of her song "Army of Me" which can be found on that particular single (the band also performed the song live with Bjork shortly afterwards). Skin's lyrics can be summed up as emotive, clever and expressive, but her voice is the band's biggest highlight. Accompanied by Ace's near-grungy guitars and Cass's bass rhythms, Skin can belt her demons out in heavy rockers "Selling Jesus" and "Little Baby Swastikkka" as well as tenderly coo out the chorus to the more up-tempo ballads "Charity" and "Weak." She's definitely the best black female singer I have ever heard, and could outsing Whitney Houston anyday. Furthermore, there are songs like the driving "I Can Dream" and upbeat closer "Rise Up" that make me wonder why this band never got the same exposure in America as they did in Britain.

After this album, the band would go on to make two more, 1996's Stoosh and 1999's Post Orgasmic Chill, the latter being my favorite of the band's works, as well as tour with such bands as Lenny Kravitz, Bad Religion, Soulfly, OOMPH! and Sevendust. There would eventually be a peaceful split in 2001, and Skin would move on to a solo career (her most recent album being released this past February), while Ace would work on music of his own and Mark would join the band Feeder. Still, I hope that Skunk reunite in the future, as they were easily one of the best bands of their time - not to mention they still are.

Criminally Ignored.......2002-08-17

There are various connotations that spring to mind when you hear the term "British Rock" but Skunk Anansie dare to break the mold. On this surprisingly strong and developed debut, they combine punk and metal to devastating effect, adding irresistably funky basslines and searing guitar riffs. Later in their career the band would add dark dance beats to their work, but this album is them at their rawest, heaviest and (in my opinion) best. Skunk Anansie manage to sound nothing like any of their peers, but the closest desciption that springs to mind would be a mixture of Rage Against the Machine's political rage, L7's bruising metal attack, early Red Hot Chili Peppers style funk and an attitude as powerful as the Sex Pistols' (but a lot more intellectual)

While not as commercial as Stoosh, I still believe this is accessible to any serious fan of rock and/or metal. Skunk Anansie also prove their sense of variety with slower, softer tracks like Weak and Charity. Little Baby Swastikkka is an inspired mixture of loud/soft dynamics, little girl whispers, malevolent riffs and sheer power.

Because of their nationality, they sometimes (wrongly) get lumped in with the British indie scene. Skunk Anansie should have made it in America, because (as well as being able to write great songs) they're blessed with a truly individualistic vocalist (Skin) who not only has one of the most beautiful and powerful female voices I've heard, but who puts her soul into the political lyrics and who actually has a clue about what she's singing.

Deliciously heavy, seething with rage, yet laden with catchy hooks and melodies: Paranoid and Sunburnt is a true gem.

Skin Rocks.......2001-01-12

Skin has the most amazing voice that defines each and every track on this album. Skin and co have managed on their first album to achieve what it takes other groups years to do, and that is to be able to produce an album good all the way through without having any low rated tracks or album fillers and each track beats the previous. Featuring key tracks like Weak, Charity and Selling Jesus, Skunk Anansie are going to be a band to watch out for in the future.

Pre-great noise.......2000-02-17

With the song »Weak« from this album, Skunk showed that the band had potential.

However, »Paranoid & Sunburnt« shows a political and wild rockband not fully developed yet. It plays the first attempts to become great, to find a unique style.

Tracks:

Paranoid Android
Polythylene (Parts 1 & 2)
Pearly

Album Description

The first single from their 1997 & third album, 'OK Computer'. Pt.1 is backed with 'Polyethylene (Pts. 1 & 2)' and 'Pearly'. Paper sleeve.

Album Details

The First Part of Radiohead's Masterpiece Single from the Album "ok Computer" Includes Two NON-LP Tracks, "Polyethylene Pts. One and 2" and "Pearly".

Customer Reviews:

Definitely one of the greatest Radiohead singles.......2003-04-19

This single surpasses many of Radiohead's (and other artist's) singles. Not only is Paranoid Android an unforgettable alternative rock song, but the bsides are fantastic as well.

Polyethylene (Parts 1 And 2)--such a great track. this could have definitely been on OK computer. it begins with an acoustic, calm snippet (part 1). but then, it breaks into an all out rock song (part 2). the track has great, meaningful lyrics and such an incomparable tune. one of their very best bsides ever.

Pearly*--also a great bside. it has a different sound to it, like it could fit into OK computer in some ways, but not completely. it does have great repeat listenablity value and an addictive theme.

I dont often say wow but.............2002-10-09

WOW! No matter if you are a new fan, old fan, if you like amnesiac best, or pablo honey... you really need to get this single. Paranoid Android could be not only the best radiohead song on ok computer, but maybe their best song ever. To put this song on a single accompanied by two b-sides that will leave you speachless makes this purchase totally worthwile.

Ok, so heres what the songs are like... Paranoid Android is just such a good song. Once you hear the 4 beeps in the beginning of this song you'd better take a seat. It has such an unbelievable feel to it created by possibly thom's best ever singing, and a guitar riff that gives you the chills. The background sound effects and such make the song all the more breath-taking. It goes into an electric guitar hardcore part towards the end proving the variety and talent involved in the making of this song. If there is one song that will leave a lasting impression on you from the OK computer cd it will be this.

Polyethylene (parts 1 & 2) comes next on the single. It begins with a nice little accoustic guitar and voice piece (part 1), that would do fine as a song on its own. But then you hear 2..3.. and the electric guitar comes in adding so much to this song. Thoms singing in this part is quite powerful and meaningful, it has a cool kind of off-beat to it. Would definitely go well on the ok computer cd.

Pearly* is the next and final song on this great single. As if they needed another great song after the first two, but hey, we're talkin about radiohead here... This song sounds somewhat beatles-esque in a way but with a great radiohead twist to it. I would buy the cd for this song alone. Interesting crashing of cymbals and bells lead the way in this song accompanied by a harmony of singing and guitar. Outstanding song for an outstanding cd.

The best single?.......2001-12-20

It was because of this song that I and many others got into Radiohead in the first place and it remains a pure, complicated gem. But it's not just Paranoid Android - Polyethylene could quite easily have made it onto Ok Computer and Pearly* rates as one of the better guiter-driven B-sides of recent years. Together they make a perfect monument to a great song.

Listen and Learn.......2001-10-18

Quite simply this is the greatest record of all-time.
To hear this work of genius in your living room played very loud after a hard days graft is special. To have heard it played very loud with 45,000 other people in Oxford one rainy Saturday was the one of the highlights of my life.

Forget music listen to this.

Demon of Wet Sawdust..........2001-07-24

THIS IS NOT A "NO SURPRISES CD-SINGLE" THIS IS PARANOID ANDROID PT. 1!!! Please make sure you know that, I did, and this is much better. Track listing- 1. Paranoid Android 2. Polythylene (Parts 1 & 2) 3. Pearly*

"Paranoid Android" is such a great Radiohead single, and quite an essential song to OK Computer. This is one of the songs that really got Radiohead's fame going.

"Polythylene" is an awesome B-Side, the first part is a nice Thom solo singing a guitar savvy song that moves into this full blown out piece with great guitars and some of the best Radiohead vocals. This is really a wonderful B-Side. A lot like all those great OK Computer songs that they became famous for. Not quite up to Kid A nor down to the Bends. REALLY A GREAT SONG!

"Pearly*" is another great Radiohead song. Another OK Computer-like song. Very cool song, sounds a little like futuristic 80s rock or something, if thats at all possible. I really like it, and Thom performed it recently as an acoustic solo. Its a really powerful song, I dont know how else to explain it.

These songs are great company to "Paranoid Android" and are excellent B-Sides. This is really one of the best Radiohead Singles I have, and Im a collector... that says a lot.

String Quartet Tribute to Black Sabbath
Average customer rating:

Nice idea, but not quite hitting home

Can you find parts for this?

Valiant Experiment

Sabbath's Music Lends Itself Perfectly To This Tribute

ELEVATOR MUSIC

String Quartet Tribute to Black Sabbath
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Vitamin Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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String Quartet Tribute to Iron Maiden

ASIN: B00006GOHM
Release Date: 2002-09-03

Tracks:

Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
Sweet Leaf
Iron Man
Changes
Electric Funeral
Paranoid
Solitude
Supernaut
Into The Void
Sacrament

Product Description

1. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
2. Sweet Leaf
3. Iron Man
4. Changes
5. Electric Funeral
6. Paranoid
7. Solitude
8. Supernaut
9. Into the Void
10. Sacrament

Format: CD

Customer Reviews:

Nice idea, but not quite hitting home.......2007-06-29

Sabbath's music interpreted by this quartet seems a lot more repetitive and ordinary than I would have thought it would. Maybe another quartet could give it more depth. But what do I know? It's a nice novelty - I recommend buying it if you have been listening to Sabbath as much as I have. But, I have to agree with the fellow who pointed out the hack assembly line quality of this quartet series. Also, I am not sure they picked the more orchestral Sabbath songs to perform (i.e. Killing Yourself to Live, or Spiral Architect).

Can you find parts for this?.......2006-08-12

I have been a Black sabbath fan for a long time. I was in Orchestra for nine years. I was so glad to find this CD on amazon. I haven't bought it yet, but I was wondering if you can buy, the violin score (part) for black sabbath? I would love to be able to play these songs myself.

Valiant Experiment.......2006-03-08

Pure classical strings: Violin, Cello, Viola, Contrabass. It's suitable for elevator & dentist music. Not bad but the music is lacking body, it feels empty and needs either more instruments or a deeper more pronounced bass. The high pitch strings do tend to get on your nerves after a while. The artist did a decent job on the songs but I don't think Black Sabbath comes out right with strings. The CD has 10 songs of which 9 are Sabbath and 1 is an original composition named Sacrament (short but ok). The CD really needed more songs to give a better incentive to purchase. Paranoid and Sabbath Bloddy Sabbath are my favorites in string.

Sabbath's Music Lends Itself Perfectly To This Tribute.......2004-10-02

Black Sabbath's music lends itself so perfectly to this kind of a tribute, you can't help but think maybe Ozzy, Tony, Geezer, and Bill planned this from the beginning. Not likely, but still. This is one of the most natural sounding String Tributes out there. The slow, plodding, doom-like riffs translate amazingly to a string quartet. Check out the sound clips of Electric Funeral and Iron Man for the best examples. Even Paranoid was impressive, and that's not really a song you would expect to translate very well. In all, a great pickup Ozzy & Sabbath fans, both old and new.

ELEVATOR MUSIC.......2003-08-28

This recording is very disappointing as far as adding a new exciting edge to Sabbath's great tunes. I'm 40 years old and have listened to Sabbath since my early teens. This is nothing but elevator music done on an assembly line. The main part of the strings are playing the tune while another one plays out the voice pattern over top.Real tacky and not very original.Once I recieved the CD I found an order form for the String Quartet's other cheesey renditions-Tributes to Queen,Zeppelin, U2, etc not to mention tributes to Bjork and Enya (who the hell are they?).This sound was like listening to castrated Sabbath music.There was no way to build up any dynamics or power using these instruments and they can't even begin to capture the raw emotion that makes Sabbath's music stand out. I love good string work but this left me wanting to reach through the speakers so I could grab those violins and smash them into a million pieces.As a hard core Sabbath fan I would strongly recommend buying the CD by Rondellus called Sabbatum if you want a unique attack on Sabbath music. It is very well done on medieval instruments and sung in Latin .

Average customer rating:

Better than Gravity, but not perfection...
A load of garbage.
Not much going on for me
Our Lady Peace Rules!!!
Healthy In Paranoid Times On A String.

Healthy In Paranoid Times
Our Lady Peace
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Happiness Is Not a Fish That You Can Catch
Naveed
Spiritual Machines
Gravity
Clumsy

ASIN: B000A2APW6
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Tracks:

Angels/Losing/Sleep
Will the Future Blame Us
Picture
Where Are You
Wipe That Smile Off Your Face
Love and Trust
Boy
Apology
World on a String
Don't Stop
Walking in Circles
Al Genina (Leave the Light On)

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

Better than Gravity, but not perfection..........2006-10-10

I will start off by saying I have been a huge Our Lady Peace fan for nearly 12 years. I was privy to seeing them open for Van Halen in 1995, already a fan of the Naveed album, I was so impressed by the originality and energy of the on stage performance. Each album released after Naveed seemed to carve out a unique vibe, mainly driven by the hooking riffs of Mike Turner. With his departure, went all the drive and energy that seemed to make Raine's lyrics listenable. Gravity, while having some very noteworthy pop songs, was so glossy and over-produced, lacking any of that true OLP trademark sound. The slicked down, Mesa/Boogie Triple Recitifier, over delayed guitar riffs of Steve Mazur seemed to drown out all that was OLP.

This new album basically only has two listenable tracks, but they are so good and ring of all that OLP was in the past, that they warrant the purchase of the CD alone. "Apology" is a brilliant song where Raine's vocals are truly that old OLP sound. The structure of this song is classic OLP, quite possibly the best song they have made to date. You almost get a sense that Mike Turner wrote the riffs on this one. Mazur has definitely tamed down his amps and put away the digital processing on this track. "Angel Losing Sleep" is the other keeper. Very reminiscent of a track that may have made the cut on Happiness.... This song instantly is etched into memory and I love the chorus on this one.

Well unfortunately, that is all I have good to say about this disc. But definitely download those two songs and bypass the rest. I hold out hope that the next album will be more focused and follow in the same direction as these songs seems to be leading us.

Peace and love to all,
Mikey

A load of garbage........2006-08-12

Gravity was tolerable ( I suppose) but this is it, Our Lady Peace is finished. This album is terrible, and very boring, its ovious Mike Turner (previous guitarist)was what made this band and gave them their sound.

Such a shame.
If you like "POP" music, you'll like this.

Not much going on for me.......2006-03-26

The great thing about music is that what doesn't appeal to one person sounds great to the next.You can see it here in the reviews for the new OLP cd as well as any other cd for sale at Amazon.
I loved "Gravity"."Healthy" is not horrible,but after a few listens nothing is memorable.I don't find myself singing any of the songs to myself during the day.Its just an "Okay" cd for me.

Our Lady Peace Rules!!!.......2006-03-07

I will say for those of you of you who are considering buying the album that I am probably biased being from Canada, eh, but I feel that all of their albums are great (note as per the rating system out of 5 I would give some of there past stuff a 6, while giving this one a 5)! Coming from the 90's rock era its still great to have a few bands around that I can just sit back and really listen to some good music. The album itself has a different sound than their other music but what can you expect in this day and age when everyone expects it to be one up the previous album. I do hear the modern edge and would love some more Naveed like albums but I would take Our lady peace over any other band currently on the market. For me I can really feel the emotion they put into all of there music! Keep those albums coming!

Healthy In Paranoid Times On A String........2006-02-06

As An English Our Lady Peace fan I do not get to see the band often, I rely on the power of their music to cross the pond and reach out to me, make me tap my feet, make me sing along to the catchy cryptic lyrics like previous Our Lady Peace albums have done. Although many weren't, I was completely satisfied.

Healthy In Paranoid Times has at least 5 songs that would make excellent singles: Where Are You, The World On A String, Don't Stop, Angels/Losing/Sleep and Will The Future Blame Us? and although a very good album would have 12 singles, the other 7 songs all serve a very different purpose; the power of thought provocation. It would be too much to explain all the possible theories about each track however:

Picture, has some powerful, thoughtful lines dealing with the loss of someone either through death or relationship breakdown.

Wipe That Smile Off Your Face has a catchy drumbeat with a slow guitar over the top. "I'm Not Afraid, I'm Gunna Make You Pay" reaveals the angry nature of the song which carries a theme of revenge. It makes you wonder what Raine is singing about.

Al Genina (Leave The Light On) mentions Raine's visits with his wife Chantal to war torn countries, it communicates the gulf of lifestyles and the type of lives people in 3rd world countries. "Life is different here, its not camoflauged with Gold" highlights Raines accusations that the 3rd World doesn't get enough attention, and joins hand in hand with the CD's booklet which indicates what has happend in the world since they started recording. Although sung in a mellow tone, Raines voice has the ability to communicate with a wider audience; something that OLP have been trying to do since Gravity in 2002.

Overall the album is more of a facinating peice of music than something that you can rock out too. Our Lady Peace are not stuck at crossroads as some may assume, they are still making powerful music, probing at different ways to climb the ladder of success ultimately having their music universally recognised. This album certainly takes them a up a few further rungs on that ladder.

Average customer rating:

Fun and refined
Fun Loving and Energy Packed
DISPOSABLE
PSC KICKS ASS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Awesome local band!

Paranoid Social Club
Paranoid Social Club
Manufacturer: Element Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000ALM4LM
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Tracks:

The Cable Hookup
Two Girls
Gangster
Evolution
Rhythm Is
Wasted
Chocolate
Save Me
Lunatic
Headphones
Music Man
She Gets Me High
Theme Song

Customer Reviews:

Fun and refined.......2006-08-14

This is a great cd with 13 solid tracks. Although most rock recordings heard on the radio today could be written and recorded in a couple of weeks, this is a production of several years. I think that the original version of "wasted" was better (probably just because I became attached to the first PSC song I heard), but that every other track is well worth the buy. The quality of the recording is perfect and is almost as fun as seeing them live. If you want some fun music that doesnt sound like it was written through some formula and stamped out by the millions then pick this up! You won't be disappointed.

Fun Loving and Energy Packed.......2006-03-24

After releasing independent albums in 2002 and 2004, Paranoid Social Club's major label debut serves as their introduction to a nationwide audience. Full of the high energy anthems that have made the band's live shows must-see events in the local market, this hard charging record is the perfect backdrop to any party.

All three members of Paranoid Social Club (PSC) began their musical careers as drummers and that shared background helps lay a solid groundwork on each and every track. With the use of obscure samples, turntable work and intermittent piano parts, each cut manages a unique sound while leaving the album with a unified theme. Though fittingly classified as rock, elements of hip-hop, jazz, blues and R&B help round out the Paranoid Social Club sound.

The most telling track on the album may be it's last. The bass-heavy "Theme Song" is an open call to fans to join the band on their musical journey, wherever it may lead them. "I know you want to trust again / But sometimes you just get too scared / At the Paranoid Social Club we'll all fit in".

This is not a Rustic Overtones CD. Paranoid Social Club is a new band, trying to make their way with a fresh style and by trading on their own name. Though they should be seen live to be fully appreciated, until PSC comes your way, pick up this album and familiarize yourself with a great band with their own style who make music for themselves and their fans, not for critics.

DISPOSABLE.......2006-03-24

Being a fan of the Rustic Overtones, I was excited to hear about the prospect that the key architects (Dave Gutter and Jon Roods) had a new band and decided to continue to make music. That excitement quickly faded as soon as I put PSC's self-titled CD in my player. The soul-inflected organic sound of RO has apparently give way to music that's over-produced through Pro Tools and processed to death. However, that's probably the least of their problems; The songwriting is just plain terrible, with songs on the album sounding like bad, incomplete demos. The songs sound like Dave Gutter just took a few bong hits, scribbled a few notes with lyrics and called it a day.

Need proof? "Wasted" is just brain-numbingly awful. Do we really need another song about the glories of getting drunk?

PSC KICKS ASS!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-02-03

This CD kicks so much ass!!!!!!!!! Every song on the CD is great!! I would highly reccomend this CD, though i will warn you that a couple songs arent what u would cal PC, lol!!!1

Awesome local band!.......2005-10-01

PSC rocks! They're a local band here, and I hope it won't take too long before they get the national recognition they deserve! Their lyrics are original, they've got an awesome beat to their songs, and how can you not love the self-depricating words to their songs? "The Cable Hookup" is a perfect example of that!

Music Review:

Music Review

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Music Review

Falling Out Into the Night [EP]

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Carl Story Tribute

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Keys to Imagination

Era Madrugada [Import]

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