Dream a Dream

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Everybody's favorite precocious sprite of a soprano comes out with her third album in Dream a Dream. It's only been two years since Charlotte Church's smash debut, Voice of an Angel, but that's a big chunk of the Welsh singer's life span so far. This latest is basically a Christmas album, so full of festive cheer you'd never guess it was recorded in the summer. Even the glummest of moods will disappear when you hear Charlotte's infectious take on chestnuts such as "Winter Wonderland" and "Little Drummer Boy" (and having the London Symphony Orchestra as your backup band doesn't hurt either). And on top of that is a really special treat: the title song (borrowing an unforgettable classical melody) which blends Church's soaring vocals with the tender voice of young country prodigy Billy Gilman. --Sarah Chin

Dream a Dream, Music, Adolphe Adam, Felix Bernard, Katherine K. Davis, Charles Gounod, Franz Xaver Gruber, Hugh Gwynne, Jester Hairston, Simon Hale, George Frideric Handel, Felix Mendelssohn, Michael Praetorius, Mel Torme, Christmas Traditional, John Francis Wade, Zacar, Sian Edwards, John Themis, Rhodri Davies, London Symphony Orchestra, Charlotte Church, Billy Gilman, Chamber, Christmas, Christmas / Chanukkah, Christmas Music, Classical, Classical Crossover, Holiday, Miscellaneous, Miscellaneous Music, Miscellaneous Vocal Music, Romantic Music for Voice and Keyboard, Solo Voice(s) and Orchestra, Vocal, Vocal Music, Xmas Vocal

Systematic Chaos
Average customer rating:

Amazing, as expected

Brilliant

Dream Theater does what they do best.

Great as always

the box

Systematic Chaos
Dream Theater
Manufacturer: Roadrunner Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Dream Theater - Score: 20th Anniversary World Tour Live with the Octavarium Orchestra

ASIN: B000PTYP5C
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

In The Presence Of Enemies
Forsaken
Constant Motion
The Dark Eternal Night
Repentance
Prophets Of War
The Ministry Of Lost Souls
In The Presence Of Enemies- part II

Album Description

Progressive rock masters Dream Theater return in full force with their ninth studio album Systematic Chaos. The album features heavy riffs, soaring melodies, and intricate arrangements. Dream Theater appeases its loyal fans but also reaches out to all rock fans with hook-laden hits like "Constant Motion," "Forsaken," and "The Dark Eternal Night."

Customer Reviews:

Amazing, as expected.......2007-07-22

Unlike the promo songs, In the Presence of Enemies (the split-up epic) is the most memorable, magnificient song I know. Repentance has emotive power of a steam roller. I can't get enough of this album.

Brilliant.......2007-07-20

Dream Theater is known for their complex, progressive arrangements and strong musicianship. Any band would be happy to have one of these muscians be their hub, but Dream Theater has 5 talents who all excel at their individual instruments. Bringing it all together in one band is truly a feast for the ears. This release may be their best yet. It's a little heavier and a little darker than some of their other releases, and some of their fast, tight riffs have had me pushing the rewind button in disbelief so I could listen again. The DVD covers the recording of each song, some of the thoughts behind those songs, and a little look into their personalities. If this is the only Dream Theater release you buy, I guarantee you'll be going back for more. Highly recommended.

Dream Theater does what they do best........2007-07-20

Dream Theater has done it again - an amazing album that showcases the immense technical abilities of the members as musicians without taking away from the poetry that is their music. The DVD is also very entertaining and goes into a lot of fun detail on how the album were recorded and what kind of stories are behind the songs.

Great as always.......2007-07-19

This is another great album from Dream Theater. For me, this one couldn't beat the previous one (Octavarium). It's because this one they were focusing to create more heavy songs. That's really great, but for me I prefer a little bit more light. Just a little bit, like Octavarium. If you are a progressive music lover and a heavy metal lover as well, Dream Theater is your band. If you like a little bit more Heavy than Progressive, this is your album.

Enjoy!!!!

the box.......2007-07-19

why is it every single modern prog band is mired in horrible industry standard sound production?

Average customer rating:

Interesting Good Modern Music
Awesome CD!!
In The Mode Of "Keep It Simple, Stupid", All I Can Say Is...
Worth The Hype?
Good but not amazing

Carnavas
Silversun Pickups
Manufacturer: Dangerbird Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000FUF86Q
Release Date: 2006-07-25

Tracks:

Melatonin
Well Thought Out Twinkles
Checkered Floor
Little Lover's So Polite
Future Foe Scenarios
Waste It On
Lazy Eye
Rusted Wheel
Dream At Tempo 119
Three Seed
Common Reactor

Amazon.com

If the idea of basement tapes made by Billy Corgan and Doug Martsch appeals to you, say hello to your new favorite band. Silversun Pickups are fairly early adopters of the 1990s revival, but they're not grunge dorks or anything, and they're from L.A. so they dress nice. Their music updates the anthemic but gauzy heavy rock sound that Veruca Salt and the Smashing Pumpkins had down pat. Thankfully, they strip it down and add plenty of finely distorted guitar leads to the whole thing. It's nice. With a spacey, laid-back sound due in no small part to knob-twiddlers Tony Hoffer and Dave Cooley, repeated listens are mandatory. Just don't pass out on the couch. --Mike McGonigal

Album Description

The wait is over. Silversun Pickups are about to unveil their debut full length on July 25. The Angelenos have been hard at work in the studio for months since the release of their EP 'Pikul', and are excited for the finished copy to hit the shelves. Singer/guitarist Brian Aubert offers, "We worked our asses off and we are very proud of the finished product." Using Pikul as the blueprint, the full-length seamlessly continues with Silversun's signature sound. Aubert continues, "We stayed very focused on a feeling for the full-length. It's colder, more mechanical, moodier - but at the end of it all, it's a rock record. And that's what we wanted to make." The album captures the moody nature of Silversun Pickups' sound: fuzzy guitars, driving bass grooves, ethereal keyboards, angular drums, all complemented by Aubert's unmistakable, raspy vocals. This duality is the quality that sets the Silversun Pickups apart.

Customer Reviews:

Interesting Good Modern Music.......2007-07-21

So I was driving home from work at about 3:45 in the AM and my station was playing an hour of new music from unheard artists because as we all know they can do that then because no ones listening to the radio at that time... Anyway, I was listening and all of a sudden this song came on. I was instantly curious on finding out who it was. As it turns out it was the track "Well Thought Out Twinkles". I had to go out and buy the cd the next day because of it. Now it might not be the best thing to ever come to radio but it sure is really good. There are quite a few tracks that I really love on this cd alongside a few okay ones. None the less the cd is pretty good. My favorites from the cd are "Melatonin", "Well Thought Out Twinkles", "Lazy Eye", and "Third Seed". The cd itself is very relaxing as well as interesting because I havn't heard anything quite like this. Here's my album ratings...

1. Melatonin - 10/10
2. Well Thought Out Twinkles - 10/10
3. Checkered Floor - 9.5/10
4. Little Lover's So Polite - 8.5/10
5. Future Foe Scenarios - 9/10
6. Waste It On - 8.5/10
7. Lazy Eye - 9.5/10
8. Rusted Wheel - 9.5/10
9. Dream At Tempo 119 - 8.5/10
10. Three Seed - 10/10
11. Common Reactor - 9.5/10

Overall : 92% A-

It's an overall pretty relaxing listen. There are a lot of good to great tracks and the cd was the complete opposite of a disappointment as I bought it on a whim. As it turns out I had heard the song "Lazy Eye" before without realizing it. Since I can't tell who they really sound like I couldn't tell you what types of people would like this so anyone into modern indie music should give this a shot.

Awesome CD!!.......2007-07-19

I don't know how I can be the first to review this. This album is amazing!! If you love early Smashing Pumpkins, you'll like these guys. Cross Pumpkins with My Bloody Valentine and you get the picture. Great as background music, for blasting as loud as you can in your car, or sitting around getting wasted.

In The Mode Of "Keep It Simple, Stupid", All I Can Say Is..........2007-06-23

...Silversun Pickups remind me of The Smashing Pumpkins, except that they're much less annoying and pretentious.

Therefore I like "Carnavas" a lot. Shiny, fuzzy, androgynous vocals, oblique enough require digging into.

Standout tracks are:
"Well Thought Out Twinkles" (all twinkles should be well thought out)
"Checkered Floor"
"Common Reactor"
"Future Foe Scenarios"
"Little Lover's So Polite"

A touch of post-grunge from whence the sun does shine.

Worth The Hype?.......2007-06-19

Very few bands to emerge in the new millennium have succeeded in bringing the 90's back by injecting modern elements into it while still retaining credibility. For the Silversun Pickups, however, they succeed where others may have failed (or just simply dumbed the formula down) on their dynamic full-length debut, "Carnavas." It's a sound you're bound to recognize upon your first listen, but which will bring you much to discover on each repeated listen.

So, let's get this out of the way, because it's unavoidable. These guys sound a lot like "Mellon Collie And The Infinite Sadness"-era Smashing Pumpkins. And I mean A LOT. In fact, that's what drew me into their music in the beginning. The afeminite vocals. Check. The prominent hooks delivered by bass. Check. Distorted guitars. Check. It's safe to say that if there was any band who got Billy Corgan's formula perfect, it's these guys. But instead of being mere carbon copies, the Pikcups at least add their own mark to the sound. Songs like "Melatonin," "Little Lover's So Polite," "Dream At Tempo 119" and the popular first single, "Lazy Eye" are the kind that get better and (gasp) still sound fresh with each repeated listen. "Rusted Wheel" is a personal favorite, and shows the band has a knack for the dramatic and can stray from the formula, just when you think the album might be slipping into predictability. Truth be told, there are some songs that are much better than others, and at times the vocal delivery can sound phoned in, but for a debut, it's nothing too bad. In fact, the album is just about perfect.

"Carnavas" may not ooze at the pores with originality, but at the very least, it stands out from the crowd. Play any of this album's eleven tracks next to the average modern rock fare, and not only does it stand it's own, but it's distinct and has flavor. It's simply a solid album that is perfect for letting yourself slip away. Truly, one of the rare albums these days that requires a good listen the whole way through each and every time. Are Silversun Pickups worth the hype? Well, they will appeal to many music lovers and create music that is simultaneously fun, smart and sincere. So the answer is definitely 'yes.'

Good but not amazing.......2007-06-15

I bought this album after hearing the song "Lazy Eye."I really don't agree with all the people making the Smashing Pumpkins comparison.I'm a huge SP fan and I don't mean this to make the Silversun Pickups sound bad or anything but I don't think they can be compared.I just think people want to sound smart when they write these reviews by bringing up other bands they know or have heard of.But anyway back to the review:
I'm listening to the album as I write this.The songs are good.They sound rich and I don't think anything should be added or taken out.They're the kind of songs that make you bob your head in the car.I think this album will appeal to a lot of people,whether you like rock,indie or whatever.
I'd say it's worth your money.I have to say though that near the end of the album I fell asleep.Literally.Sorry.That's why it's 4 stars.

My favorite songs are "Melatonin" and "Little Lover's So Polite."

Average customer rating:

Some fantastic singles
I'll follow You into the Dark!
Hoping to pull this up to 4.5 stars...
IT'S ALL GOOD
Pleasantly Surprised!

Plans
Death Cab for Cutie
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Amazon.com

When an indie-rock band as intimately and fiercely loved as Death Cab for Cutie makes the inevitable major-label jump, it often telegraphs a painful death. Witness Husker Du, the Replacements, Nirvana--hell, even R.E.M. After a successful four-album run on tiny Seattle imprint Barsuk, however, Death Cab for Cutie just might buck the trend on its Atlantic premiere. Yes, you can grumble about the production (a little too slick), the proportion of ballads (a little too many) and the overall feeling of restraint (a little too much), but ultimately the album delivers everything the group does best in emotional, experimental songs such as "What Sarah Said" and "I Will Follow You into the Dark," which both blend stark lyrical details with acoustic guitars and soft-focus electronics. In "Soul Meets Body," meanwhile, songwriter Ben Gibbard has come up with the kind of blissful, beatific pop song that's capable of disarming even the harshest skeptic. "A melody softly soaring through my atmosphere," he sings. --Aidin Vaziri

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Customer Reviews:

Some fantastic singles.......2007-06-27

This is the only Death Cab album I like, but it's an amazing one. If you're new to the band, start here!

I'll follow You into the Dark!.......2007-05-16

My wife and I heard the tract "I'll Follow You Into the Dark" on Jay Leno and since August is our 44th Anniversary we thought it would be the perfect song to play at the renewing of our vows. Suprisingly the entire CD was as awesome as the one song we had heard and we've enjoyed every one on it. It's a little different than what we've always listened to, things like Steppenwolf and Led Zepplin, but we've become fans of "Death Cab For Cutie!"

Hoping to pull this up to 4.5 stars..........2007-04-11

I would actually give Plans 4.5 stars, but I am rating it a 5 to help pull the overall rating to a 4.5.

This was my introduction to Death Cab For Cutie by a friend. She made me listen to "Soul Meets Body", and I was in love with that song. I purchased the album, and to my surprise, there were a few tracks I liked more than "Soul Meets Body". There are a couple of tracks that don't work well ("Brothers on a Hotel Bed", for instance), but when it does work well, it's a mellow and beautiful listen.

Standout tracks: "Marching Bands of Manhattan", "I Will Follow You Into the Dark", "Crooked Teeth", "Soul Meets Body", "Summer Skin", "Your Heart is an Empty Room".

IT'S ALL GOOD.......2007-03-23

I bought this CD after hearing "I Will Follow You Into the Dark" and "Crooked Teeth." The whole CD is quite good, and some of it is relaxing, too. We actually listened to it during dinner. It was good straight through. Haven't heard much of "Death Cab For Cutie" other than this CD, but would definitely check them out more now!

Pleasantly Surprised!.......2007-03-11

Somewhere I heard their track "Follow me into the dark" and the accoustic guitar caught my attention. I don't listen to the radio that much since I don't have a long commute - kitchen to office type thing. The other day I heard it again and this time I caught the name of the album - I'm notorious for not knowing the names of bands and this one zipped by me too. I know what I like and I know good music when I hear it. Frequently when I've bought a CD for one track I'm disappointed by the tone or quality of the rest ... but, not in this case. They have the quality of many of the bands from the 60s, but they are original and thoughtful in their writing. This record is relatively mellow, but it has as pleasant energy about it. Similar to another review here on Amazon, I'm interested in looking into their previous work and will look for new releases from them. If someones doesn't talk them out of their own style and will let them alone to continue to develop it, they'll be around for a long time I'm quite certain.

Average customer rating:

You will agree with me if:
Just "ok" for DT - "great" compared to anyone else
A return to form, of sorts
Ups and Downs... But Too Inconsistent
could have sucked worse

Systematic Chaos
Dream Theater
Manufacturer: Roadrunner Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000PFUAO6
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

In the Presence Of Enemies-Part I
Forsaken
Constant Motion
The Dark Eternal Night
Repentance
Prophets Of War
The Ministy Of Lost Souls
In the Presence Of Enemies-Part II

Amazon.com

Dream Theater has built a career on delivering some of the most consistently strong progressive rock albums in history and Systemic Chaos proves no exception. Built upon the trademark musically diverse but stylistically reliable principles that made albums such as Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence and Train of Thought instant classics, this album features new career highs such as "Prophets of War," "Forsake," and "Constant Motion." Although the band has flirted with commercially viable material in the past, especially on 2005's solid and exciting Octavarium, Systemic Chaos proves unrelenting in its pursuit of pure heavy rock. There are plenty of surprises in store, even for stalwart fans, perhaps one of the reasons that Dream Theater remains in a class by itself, ahead of the pack and ahead of the times. A truly outstanding album by any measure.--Jedd Beaudoin

Album Description

Customer Reviews:

You will agree with me if:.......2007-07-22

You will agree with me if:
1. You think Images and Words is Dream Theater's best album (I don't, but if you do, you will likely agree with this review.)
2. You dislike Linkin Park and DragonForce (or listen to them rarely.)
3. You absolutely love Scenes from a Memory.
4. You were slightly disappointed in Octavarium but didn't hate it.

Now to the review.

I'm a big Dream Theater fan. I have all of their albums. I liked their recent album Octavarium, but it had some flaws that really hurt the album. I looked to Systematic Chaos to fix those errors. I read some very complimentary reviews from a variety of people. People have said that if you like Train of Thought (as I do), you'll like Systematic Chaos. What I got was a slap in the face. I don't care if you like ToT, it's way better than SC (You have been warned.) Anyway, I guess I should mention what I liked:

When it comes to the instruments, the music was well played. They are a very tight band, and I enjoy their musical composition. This album is no exception. However, that was far overshadowed by two major things:

The lyrics are horrible. I felt like I was listening to a satanic DragonForce clone. Just horrible. Johnny P, stick to guitar playing, it's what you're good at. When I listen to Dream Theater, I want to hear The Mirror, Space-Dye Vest, Metropolis part one and two, A Change of Seasons, etc. The classics. I especially like the lyrics for the AA stuff. But I don't give a crap about an ancient monster or somebody who sells their soul to Satan. And what the @#$% was up with the Vampire song? Give me a break! I know Dream Theater is a music-first-and-then-we'll-worry-about-lyrics-which-aren't-important band, but if the lyrics are sufficiently terrible, the album sucks, even with good music. This is the case with Systematic Chaos.

The second thing that ruins the album is the chanting. Need I say more? And yet I WILL say more because that chanting is so awful. Horrible. Completely unenjoyable. If I want to listen to that, I'll listen to Linkin Park, not Dream Theater. It completely overshadows the good music I mentioned earlier. It completely draws your attention away from LaBrie's much improved singing. I give him full credit for his actual singing. It's some of his best. But it's hard to pay attention to it when you hear that awful crud JP and MP are... uh... "singing."

2 Stars because I'm a Dream Theater fan. Here's to hoping their next album is completely different. Time to go listen to Scenes from a Memory again...

Just "ok" for DT - "great" compared to anyone else.......2007-07-21

First I would like to say, I am a very dedicated DT fan and all JP and MP solo work. Live, the whole group is flawless, and they pay close attention to sound quality and stay true to the studio version of each song played. The first time I heard DT years ago, I was was floored! Their music was like an answer to a prayer for someone that had reached "burnout" stage with all other prog-rock groups.
These guys (all 5 members) are incredibly talented and never cease to amaze musically. But, in my opinion, not all of these songs seem to fit the DT maturity level. "Constant Motion" has a VERY predictable vocal melody closely resembling Metallica, which is a kick in the nuts to LaBrie, who is an excellent vocalist - he can do way better than this! Also, Portnoy's backing vocals are kind of annoying on that track #3. They should let LaBrie do his job. I would not be suprised to find out that LaBrie and Rudess end up going somewhere else in the near future. Even Rudess' keyboard wizardry is somewhat stifled on this album. Track #1 (In the presence of enemies Part 1) is very fresh melodically where as Track #8 (Part 2) is dark, directionless and even corny? Dark Master.........what the hell?. Track #4 is very dark and hard lyrically, which is fine if your 17 years old and like thrash. Track #6 (Prophets of War) is good but isn't it time to quit talking about war in the east? This is the 3rd-album-in-a-row to have such a song. Find a new topic already. All the rest of the tracks are just "ok" compared to what they are cabable of. They climaxed with the album "Scenes from a Memory", no doubt about it. I thought with that being Rudess' first DT release that it would have gotten better and better. None of the DT albums since have matched SFAM. I am still dedicated to DT music and hope they will rise above the "kid thrash" phase, and get back on track again. Sorry die-hards, but I have to be honest.

A return to form, of sorts.......2007-07-16

After two disappointing studio albums, Train of Thought and Octavarium, Dream Theater has managed to rebound with a very good album, that is probably their best of the decade. No, it doesn't come close to matching the greatness of most of their 90's material, most notably, Scenes from a Memory, Images and Words, or their masterpiece, Awake, but Systematic Chaos is still a very good progressive metal record.

"The Ministry of Lost Souls" is easily one of their three best songs of the 00's, "Repentance" demonstrates that they do in fact have the ability to slow it down and craft a wonderful, mellow song without having to remind listeners of their chops every other minute, and "In the Presence of Enemies" is a solid epic that is broken into two pieces and bookends the record. "The Dark Eternal Night" is arguably the heaviest song they have ever written. It is ripe with distorted almost death metal-like vocals, heavy guitar riffs, and plenty of technical flash, which normally would be a bit too over-the top for me, but in this instance, it comes across as the band just trying to have a little fun. It is mindless metal song, but it is good fun to crank up while cruising on the freeway.

On the flip side, the lead single from the album, "Constant Motion," is a strong contender for worst Dream Theater song ever. The verses smack of Metallica-wannabe syndrome, there are some truly embarrassing vocal moments by drummer Mike Portnoy (who really ought to stick to just playing drums, and leave all of the vocals to James LaBrie), and a keyboard solo by Jordan Rudess that merely sounds like a game of "let's see how many notes I can jam into the smallest space possible." Fortunately, "Constant Motion" is the only clunker on this record. The rest is all at least very good.

One more thing...the only other negative thing I can really say about this album is that the lyrics are, to put it nicely, not good. But then again, who really listens to Dream Theater in search of good lyrical content? The days of Kevin Moore crafting lyrical masterworks are long gone, so for now, it is best to focus on the music, most of which is very good.

Ups and Downs... But Too Inconsistent.......2007-07-14

I don't know if I was expecting to like this album or not when I bought it, because just looking at the song titles can give you a pretty good idea of the path that DT is now set on. The songs on this album are so sickeningly inconsistent; gone are the days that you could put in the CD and listen to it all the way through, without skipping halfway through songs to get to the fun parts. Song progressions are generally as follows: boring structures/time signatures, annoying noodling, pretentious musicianship, obnoxious Metallica-style vocals... then the occasional awesome riff and soaring melody.... followed by more over-the-top lyrics and some video game keyboard sounds that, sorry, DO NOT fit in. With anything.
They've probably come up with about 20-25 minutes of good, original music with this album. I especially like "In The Presence of Enemies" and "Repentance," the continuation of Mike Portnoy's saga. Parts of the CD are worth listening to; me, I'll stick with Images and Words.

could have sucked worse.......2007-07-13

Background: The first time I ever heard anything Dream Theater-related was in college while helping a guy I knew who has a small sound/lighting company do a sound check for a show. That song was "Pull Me Under". I&W, Awake, Falling Into Infinity, A Change of Seasons, SFAM had already hit shelves and 6DOIT came out that year. I've enjoyed all of those albums on a song-by-song basis.

Dream Theater will of course never return to my favorite area: I&W and Awake, but hopefully they won't dive too far down the TOT/Octavarium tunnel again either. This album is probably the best since 6DOIT, and I've only heard a few songs from that album. Because I like albums based on a song-by-song basis, there is no need to provide a breakdown since I don't think my interest in individual songs will help the fanbase determine the value of the entire album. Just understand that James LaBrie should have retired long ago, and that the rest of the band is still making Dream Theater-branded music - complete with all influences shining and all composition skills engaged. Musically, I am not aware of any competition when it comes to diversity and depth. Lyrically and vocally, ...well, I wish the band would write the rest of their albums as instrumentals.

Average customer rating:

Alternative rock masterpiece
Must have album!
An Alt-Rock Masterpiece
gorgeous!
an all time favorite

Siamese Dream
Smashing Pumpkins
Manufacturer: Virgin Records Us
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Cherub Rock
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Luna

Amazon.com essential recording

An introductory drum roll drops out and is replaced by a single suspended electric guitar, which is then paralleled by a snare, filled in with the bass, and--crash!--"Cherub Rock," the opening track, is enveloped in an explosion of metal guitar. So the journey begins. This album is pre-experimentation vintage Pumpkins. Produced by Butch Vig (Garbage, Sonic Youth, Nirvana's Nevermind), Siamese Dream is first about guitars. Lots and lots of guitars. A very close second is Jimmy Chamberlain's unquestionably excellent power drumming. Throughout each song, Billy Corgan delivers angsty lyrics in his signature breathy whine. "Disarm" is a nice intermission halfway though the album. As the title of the song suggests, it throws the listener into a different mood with its full string arrangements and radiant orchestral chimes. But then it is back to the aural masochism--a pain that rarely sounds so sweet. --Beth Bessmer

Customer Reviews:

Alternative rock masterpiece.......2007-07-21

Siamese Dream (1993.) The second Smashing Pumpkins studio album.

INTRODUCTION:
With the advent of the alternative music movement in America, new bands were surfacing all across the country. Among them was Billy Corgan's band, the Smashing Pumpkins. The group had already gained a cult following of sorts after touring with other, more popular acts. Their following had increased further with the release of Gish, their first full-length studio album. Two years later, after numerous conflicts and hardships, including Corgan's depression and Jimmy Chamberlain's drug problem, the album was finally released.

OVERVIEW:
Siamese Dream was released in 1993. The band's second studio album featured the classic lineup of Billy Corgan on vocals and rhythm guitar, Jimmy Chamberlain on drums, James Iha on lead guitar, and D'arcy on bass. Guest musicians Eric Remschneider and David Ragsdale provide string arrangements and violin/cello for some tracks.

REVIEW:
Despite the sessions for this album being plagued with hardships coming from every corner of the band, the end product was more than worth it. Billy Corgan had written over fifty songs during the sessions, and was going to disband the group if the album was a failure. Fortunately, he didn't have to do that. Siamese Dream catapulted the band into the American mainstream, and scored even more hits than Gish. The band's sound here is much more mature and developed than on Gish, and this results in a stronger, more coherent album.

-Cherub Rock:
One of the biggest hits on the album, and of the band's career. This song beautifully combines a melodic, peaceful sound, with the hard and heavy rock of the band's early days. The fusion of these two styles results in an absolute masterpiece.

-Quiet:
It's called Quiet, but this song is anything but. This is straight-up, distortion-driven rock. James Iha's distortion-heavy rock guitar sound makes this yet another worthwhile tune. It would not have been out of place on Gish, the band's first album.

-Today:
One of the reasons so many people like the Smashing Pumpkins is for their ability to combine heavy and soft sounds alike. And that reason is why this song was such a big hit. Slow and melodic verses are combined with guitar-intensive choruses and interludes, making for yet another worthwhile track.

-Hummer:
Another fusion of melodic rock and the distortion-intensive material the band was so well known for in its infancy. The final two minutes are all melodic, abandoning the hard and heavy structure of the rest of the song. What results is another great track. While not as popular as some of the other songs on here, this one is no less excellent.

-Rocket:
With Corgan and Iha alike shelling out multiple guitar tracks, this song takes hold of your attention and never lets go. It's another one of the distortion-intensive tunes (clearly the band hadn't outgrown them yet), but the use of the multiple tracks and awesome melodies makes this one a stand-out.

-Disarm:
By far the biggest hit on the album, and definitely the most popular song the band ever recorded that didn't come from Mellon Collie. This isn't your average rock song - it's filled with classical-style melodies, including string sections courtesy of the guest musicians, and church bells chiming. The song doesn't rock hard at all, but it doesn't have to. The beautiful melodies on this song must be heard to be appreciated. Absolute masterpiece.

-Soma:
For the first half of this song, the band shows off their melodic rock side, and quite well. And then, come the second half, James Iha enters the picture, rocking out full force. This one is a fan favorite because it has the best of both musical worlds.

-Geek U.S.A.:
Despite its awkward title, this song rocks hard and never backs down - except for during a very brief, melodic interlude. Once again, Iha is on fire (this guy is such an underrated guitarist.) Awesome track that deserved more credit.

-Mayonaise:
Another distortion-intensive rocker. The band tries to fool you with a minute-or-so long melodic introduction, but catches you off guard with heavy riffs when you least expect it. This album is laden with underrated treasures, and this is one of them.

-Spaceboy:
Here the band takes a break from the rockers and tries something completely different. Acoustic guitars and orchestral backing instrumentation is the primary sound here. These deviations from the rest of the album make this one of the stand-out tracks, even if it wasn't one of the more popular ones on here.

-Silverf*ck:
This is an interesting song, because it's simultaneously the loudest and the quietest song on the album. The intro and outro parts rock hard, even harder than anything else on the album. But a lengthy interlude in the middle is extremely low-pitched - hell, it's even pretty difficult to hear unless you turn up your stereo full blast. But once again, they're nice melodies. Another good fusion of two musical extremes.

-Sweet Sweet:
Less than two minutes in length, this is the shortest song on the album. The instrumentation is all acoustic and classical flavored. It's an excellent melody, and the only weakness is its brevity.

-Luna:
The band closes out the album with another slow-paced, melodic tune that heavily implements classical instrumentation. It's another unique track, and definitely stands another solid one. Great closer.

OVERALL:
Overall this is a greatest album, one of the finest alternative rock albums to come out of the nineties. It's not quite the masterpiece Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness would be - while the band has began maturing, it's clear they're still not above the distortion-filled rock sound that filled their early days. If you're new to the Smashing Pumpkins and you're trying to decide which album or albums you want to purchase, I would recommend buying this one, along with Mellon Collie. Final verdict? VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

EDITION NOTES:
The Smashing Pumpkins albums have always remained popular and have always been readily available. And being one of their most popular, this one remains available at most major music retailers.

Must have album!.......2007-07-11

This is, in my opinion, Smashing Pumpkins' best album. "Gish" and "Mellon Collie and Infinite Sadness" are also good, but this is their masterpiece. Still has a unique sound to me- imagine how unique it was then...

An Alt-Rock Masterpiece.......2007-06-29

This album is so good, it puts a lump in my throat just thinking about it. Very rarely are there great "albums" released anymore, where from the first song to the last, the music is strong and artfully arranged to make one complete "book" of music. I love this album, I love this sound. To me, this captures the best of the Pumpkins - the driving guitar and drums. What is that signature Pumpkins distortion on the guitar? Amazing. There's another song out there right now that has a similar sound and screaming vocals. It's not the SP, but it sure sounds like them!

gorgeous!.......2007-06-16

well this will be review 450 and i guess there aint much to say that hasnt been said at this point. so shut my mouth and strike the demons... yeah, you see i was only 4 when it came out and my sister who was only 8 had it new. the thing is i dont really remember much of it from when i was a kid. so skip some odd years later plus a shattered soul and you have me at 18, a diehard pumpkins fan of about only a year, and when i first heard sweet, sweet again it was instant nostalgia of heart warming bliss, like that song had never left my heart all those years. all in all it is the best sp album because it is the most flawless even though personally i find no flaws in any sp material. i will listen to these songs until my heart beat implodes, nothing short of that. the thing is that my taste in music is so big that i could kick it with most that love all good music, and still could not say there is anything in the history of music like the splash in "TODAY" after those opening chords of angel dust...nothing! billy better be playing most if not all of these songs on upcoming shows, hard to do when his songs list is extremely dense, still i'll prolly be the guy in the front wearing my zero tee yelling play SWEET SWEET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

an all time favorite.......2007-05-19

Why do I keep losing this CD?! I've bought it about 6 times now and I love it every bit as much as I did back in Chicago when I first heard it, so many years ago. I love the Pumpkins, I love their ever changing sound. But this is one of those "top 5 stranded on a desert island" CDs for me, and I suspect it always will be. It's pure, raw, energetic Pumpkins at the very beginning of their long and glorious run...which is finally kicking up again soon. It's one of the few albums I own where I love every single song. A classic.

Mamma Mia! The Musical Based on the Songs of ABBA: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Recording (1999 London Cast)

Average customer rating:

Mamma Mia
Mamma Mia Musical CD
JUST GREAT MUSIC
Mamma Mia
Not good at all

Mamma Mia! The Musical Based on the Songs of ABBA: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Recording (1999 London Cast)
Benny Andersson , Julian Poole , Jenny Galloway , Nicolas Colicos , Paul Clarkson , Bjorn Ulvaeus , Lisa Stokke , Eliza Lumley , Melissa Gibson , Siobhan McCarthy , Louise Plowright , Jenny Galloway , Bjorn Ulvaeus , and Stig Anderson
Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000031WEN
Release Date: 2000-10-17

Tracks:

Overture/Prologue
Honey, Honey
Money, Money, Money
Thank You For The Music
Mamma Mia
Chiquitita
Dancing Queen
Lay All Your Love On Me
Super Trouper
Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!
The Name Of The Game
Voulez-Vous
Entr'acte
Under Attack
One Of Us
S.O.S.
Does Your Mother Know
Knowing Me, Knowing You
Our Last Summer
Slipping Through My Fingers
The Winner Takes It All
Take A Chance On Me
I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do
I Have A Dream

Amazon.com

Put together by Abba's own Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, Mamma Mia! manages to cram over 20 of the Swedish supergroup's songs into a threadbare plot. It goes a little like this: Young Sophie is getting married and she's trying to identify which of three men is her father. That's about it. Wisely, the musical doesn't mess around with the songs, save for the insertion of some dialogue or for having some of them performed by a man (it works amazingly well). Abba fans will jump on this import of the London production, but traditional fans of musical theater should consider it as well. After all, Andersson and Ulvaeus's songs have always felt as if they were more than isolated pop gems and actually belonged to a longer narrative. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

Mamma Mia.......2007-03-22

I have not stopped playing this cd. It is just great! It makes any trip in my car most enjoyable Happy I bought it!

Mamma Mia Musical CD.......2007-03-21

This is a grand list of songs from the original musical when it was first introduced in England. The songs from ABBA are very recognizable even if you haven't seen the show. But, making a trip to NY to see the Broadway production is a plus. ENJOY!

JUST GREAT MUSIC.......2007-03-08

I RECENTLY SAW THE SHOW MAMMA MIA IN LAS VEGAS. ALWAYS LIKES THE MUSIC OF ABBA, AND THOUGH THE PLOT WAS THIN, THE MUSIC WAS WELL PERFORMED. IN THIS PARTICULAR ALBUM, THE ENGLISH ACCENTS WERE A BIT MUCH, BUT THE SONGS WERE GREAT. ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC, ABBA.

Mamma Mia.......2007-01-29

Every time I hear the music and songs it brings back memories of seeing the Broadway Show

Not good at all.......2007-01-09

This is not what we wanted. The British accents throw it was off. We just saw it in NY and this is not what we were looking for.

Average customer rating:

Parachutes
coldplay "parashutes"
Can anybody stop this thing ... before my head explodes ...
Amazing debut album
Cold Play rocks

Parachutes
Coldplay
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000508U6
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Tracks:

Don't Panic
Shiver
Spies
Sparks
Yellow
Trouble
Parachutes
High Speed
We Never Change
Everything's Not Lost

Amazon.com

Music doesn't come more touching than this. With their debut single alone, the emotion-fortified "Shiver," Coldplay prove they can shift between elated and crushed in a breath, as singer Chris Martin pours out music's oldest chestnut (unconditional yet unrequited love) with the shakiest of voices and a backdrop of epic guitars. For 10 tracks on Parachutes, he adds newfound meaning to the most tired and overused rock sentiments--love found, love lost, love unrequited--over acoustic guitars and emotionally fraught rock. And for once, all the clichés ring true because Chris Martin genuinely sounds like a man picking over the bones of his life, coming up with just as many reasons to be cheerful as seriously depressed. Not that Parachutes is a depressing album--there's too much conviction to the guitars and hope in Martin's words for that. Instead it's a beautifully tender balance that comes as close to perfection as anything that's come before it. --Dan Gennoe

Amazon.com

Coldplay Photos

More from Coldplay

A Rush of Blood to the Head
X&Y
Live 2003

Customer Reviews:

Parachutes.......2007-04-05

For so long I wrote this band off as Radiohead wannabes. Granted, Chris Martin himself pretty much admits this sentiment to be true, but that does not mean Coldplay can't want to be like Radiohead and make good music at the same time. They don't strike as deep or reach as far, but they deliver more accessible music that isn't all that bad. In fact, Parachutes, their debut album, is quite good - no, it is great.

The album has a reserved, modest alternative rock sound that relies on acoustic guitars and keyboards just as much as it does electric guitars and drum rhythms. There aren't many layers or complexity to the ten tracks on Parachutes; they are beautifully simple. Chris Martin will probably never top his vocals on this album. It is his most vivid and honest delivery. One key aspect of Coldplay's music that has never gone well with me is the lyrics, and more specifically their topics. And Coldplay haven't seemed to move from where they started, but that isn't a real weak point for Parachutes, considering that this is where they started.

"Don't Panic" is one of the best songs on the album, both in terms of sound and lyrics, but when the electric guitar comes in you can immediately taste the Radiohead. "Shiver" is a much more "Coldplay" song that has a very endearing, melodic sound to it, and the fact that it isn't in 4/4 shows that Coldplay aren't just talented. But the lyrics - being about a girl - dull this display of intellect and creativity. They more than make up for it on "Spies," a darker-sounding drum-heavy piece that is surely metaphorical about life's worries, drug use, or maybe even communist China. "Sparks" is a beautiful, almost lounge-like piece that is fitting to be about a girl. Both "Yellow" and "Trouble" are overrated, but still very good songs that work perfectly on this album. "High Speed" is another very enjoyable Radiohead-flavored song that contains a lot of atmospheric guitar-work and a grooving bass line. "We Never Change" is perhaps the best song on the album, and is certainly the most expressive and meaningful. "Everything's Not Lost" is the perfect track to close out Parachutes, with its "this could go on forever" guitar and bass riffs and vocals.

The songs in and of themselves aren't particularly brilliant or overwhelming, but the whole is much greater than the sum of its parts. The album cannot be expressed in a song or two like your average pop album. It's not exactly a "Dark Side Of The Moon"-type of album either, but everything works so well from beginning to end that it is in a sense exactly that kind of album.

coldplay "parashutes".......2007-03-19

i wait3 month and not recieve nothing-you lost this, i don't know condition.

Can anybody stop this thing ... before my head explodes ..........2007-02-03

Simply stated one of the best albums in existence. From the restrained beauty of "Yellow," to the haunting, unbelievably beautiful "Trouble," to my favorite "High Speed," this cd is astonishing. Stunning. Perfect. The last song "Everything's Not Lost" is ideal when you're at the end of your rope. It'll choke you up, but you'll feel better ... I cannot recommend this cd highly enough. This audio clips on the main page don't do any of the tracks justice ... they sound warped, tinny, and flat ... just buy it. The main review calls Parachutes "a beautifully tender balance that comes as close to perfection as anything that's come before it." Yes ... yes.

Amazing debut album.......2007-02-02

Not often does a band come through and shatter the mold for popular music. Before this cd, Americans were fixated on 'boy bands' and Outkast. This release expanded the palette of nearly all who listened; the door was open for such bands as Keane, Franz Ferdinand, and even Modest Mouse to gain their fair share of radio play. A deeper and more spiritual side of music was exposed that had an overwhelmingly great effect on the industry as a whole. This CD is simply amazing, with every song complementing each other seamlessly.
While most casual listeners will be quick to enjoy the pop-friendly "Yellow," it is such songs as "Everything's Not Lost" and "Shiver" that best define this album.

Cold Play rocks.......2007-01-11

This Cd I bought for only two of the songs. I do however enjoy more than the two I got it for.Its not as good as X&Y but its good. I have bought most all Cold plays music and this band is awesome.

Recurring Dream: The Very Best Of Crowded House

Average customer rating:

the return of crowded house.....
Great CD
Essential compilation of severely underrated band
An entire CD that is very easy to listen to.
beautiful, soaring, exciting pop/rock

Recurring Dream: The Very Best Of Crowded House
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Crowded House

ASIN: B000002U5B
Release Date: 1996-07-23

Tracks:

Weather With You
World Where You Live
Fall At Your Feet
Locked Out
Don't Dream It's Over
Into Temptation
Pineapple Head
When You Come
Private Universe
Not The Girl You Think You Are
Instinct
I Feel Possessed
Four Seasons In One Day
It's Only Natural
Distant Sun
Something So Strong
Mean To Me
Better Be Home Soon
Everything Is Good For You

Customer Reviews:

the return of crowded house............2007-03-15

this band needs no intro....
this greatest hits shows the greatness of a band audio-wise but doesnt show their incredible live presence and on-stage banter that made them legends. Paul Hester sadly left us a few years ago but the news is out:

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Crowded House Reform - Official Statement from the Band

Crowded House founders Neil Finn and Nick Seymour have confirmed that they will be putting the band back together, with plans for a new studio album and world tour.

Talking about the decision Neil said "After spending most of last year making music and hanging out with my friend Nick Seymour we are now announcing our intention to reform Crowded House with a new record entitled Time On Earth. It feels right to us that the band should re-emerge at this time and together with Mark Hart we look forward to reconnecting with the audience that we established and for whom we still hold a deep respect. We aim to make the upcoming shows and the new music every bit as vital and spirited as what has come before. We are conscious that Paul Hester was above all a great drummer and we are currently auditioning to find someone special to take that role."

The band is currently putting the finishing touches on the new album for release later in the year. Tour plans are yet to be announced but the band have confirmed they will play the Coachella Music and Arts Festival in California USA along with Bjork, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Rage Against the Machine."

they are coming out with a new album this year (2007) and a new tour!!!!

GOD BLESS CROWDED HOUSE.....

Great CD.......2007-02-09

I really didn't know much about this band. I loved the song "Don't Dream It's Over"; so I bought this CD. The entire CD is great. It is filled with easy listening and mellow songs. The CD just leaves you feeling really good. I love it.

Essential compilation of severely underrated band.......2007-01-19

I agree with most of the other reviewers: Crowded House were massively underrated. The critics were fond of their albums at the time, and in the years since Neil Finn has been acknowledged of one of the master songwriters of his generation. Still, outside of their home turf of Australia and New Zealand, few people are familiar with the name Crowded House. Play them "Don't Dream It's Over," their brilliant 1987 chart-topper, and you'll probably get a vague, "Ohhh, they did *that* song." This is simply a shame.

Almost every band purported to be the Next Big Thing eventually gets compared to The Beatles, whether it's Duran Duran or The Strokes, and it's usually quite a stretch in any number of ways. Not so with Crowded House. In superficial aesthetics the two bands share a lot in common: the Rubber Soul-like harmonies that adorn their album Woodface; the driving, melodic basslines of Nick Seymour (much like Paul McCartney); Paul Hester's non-technical, but undeniably toe-tapping drumming; and Neil Finn's voice, which can break into Lennon-esque, hoarse rock shout, or have a soothing clarinet quality like McCartney.

But the songwriting is where the comparison is most apt. The Beatles' best songs seem almost inevitable and cosmic: *somebody* was bound to happen upon a melody this perfect eventually (as in "Yesterday"), and for some reason Lennon and McCartney were able to pluck such songs out of the air regularly. Neil Finn did the same, several times for each album, with Crowded House. Listen to "Four Seasons In One Day" just once, and you'll hear what I mean.

With this album, all these songs are collected in one place. I can't say how essential this disc is for anyone who appreciates outstanding pop songwriting that goes beyond catchy and crafted and into the realm of something deep and transcendent. The first 10 listens you'll be enjoying the melodies, energy and fantastic production; after that, you'll feel like you've found a new musical best friend. It's that good.

An entire CD that is very easy to listen to........2007-01-13

This CD plays like an easy listening extravaganza. Every song is mellow and classic. The band is apparently from New Zealand/Australia, which may explain the subtle brit pop undertones.. not to mention the McCartney-esque style of a few tracks. Overall this CD is a great buy, you won't be disappointed.

beautiful, soaring, exciting pop/rock.......2006-12-31

When I first listened to this disk, I could knew one Crowded House song (Don't Dream It's Over), which is a great song, but I didn't know the band. A friend recommended this disk, which I listened to the first time at work. I didn't get anything done for that hour, and if CD's could wear out, I'd long ago have needed to replace this one.

Crowded House may not be a major band - one MTV hit, a couple of radio hits, and they're real big in New Zealand (where they are from) - but they are one of greats. Reminiscent at times of (OK, I know, this gets thrown around too often, but it's true) the Beatles (in their mid-years - think Rubber Soul) and The Ocean Blue, they can mellow with the best (Not the Girl You Think You Are, Four Seasons in One Day). When they choose to rock (Locked Out), the maintain musical and lyrical integrity. Weather With You is an indescribable joy.

Perhaps not for metalheads, but anyone who likes sophisticated (but not overly complex) arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, and spotless, emotional performance will love this.

Average customer rating:

Bubblegum Pop for a Dying Star
Gorgeous sheets of sound
23 is a Keeper!!
SWEET EDGE
HUUUUUUGE disappointment

23
Blonde Redhead
Manufacturer: 4ad / Ada
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000NJLYSK
Release Date: 2007-04-10

Tracks:

23
Dr. Strangelove
The Dress
Sw
Spring And By Summer
Silently
Publisher
Heroine
Top Ranking
My Impure Hair

Amazon.com

As if getting a spread in a popular home décor magazine just a month prior to this album's release wasn't enough of a tipoff, Blonde Redhead have come a long way since their days of mimicking Sonic Youth's brittle art-rock. Clanging guitars have been replaced by warm synthesizers and soft strings, while Japanese singer Kazu Makino's thin voice has become a ghostly moan on the grandiose opener and title track of the New York trio's seventh full-length release, 23. Their last one, 2004's Misery Is a Butterfly, was a lovely throwback to the dream-pop heyday of the Cocteau Twins and Lush. This one presses further down that road, only with a more experimental streak, as cascading guitars, military rhythms, and wobbly melodies shape opulent, otherworldly songs like "The Dress" and "My Impure Hair." --Aidin Vaziri

Album Description

As rich and densely layered as their last album, "Misery Is A Butterfly", but the overall mood of wistfulness, melancholy, and regret has been replaced by one of mystical wonder and renewed energy. "It's art music and heart music, with equal appeal to a Serge Gainsbourg fan as to a Sonic Youth fan, without ever sounding like either act" - LA Times.

Customer Reviews:

Bubblegum Pop for a Dying Star.......2007-07-15

Are these guys camping out and recording in some sort of mystical glass castle: Melodically pristine, opulent, and delicately humming through colored sunlit skylights that view the shape shifting cosmos, there is something just stretched and unnervingly pure on this utterly dreamy and hypnotizing Blonde Redhead CD. A record, that RARE record that makes loneliness in the dark after midnight make THAT much more sublime sense, as in YES of COURSE I was meant to be here listening to Makino's echoey little-girl voice ring all around me even though its dark in here and the atmosphere is thick: though you'll somehow HEAR the light and SEE a glow--somewhere, anywhere...These are haunted songs after all, angelic, listless, brave. These guys are lit from within, and they can shine through any darkness. Ladytron puts them to bed at night. The Cocteau Twins wake 'em up. Lush, Ride, and My Bloody Valentine drop by for tea and biscuits...and these dappled afternoons get mellow, the world shimmering and pretty. Imagine if Portishead were given magic mushrooms and Lexapro instead of the aged gin and dusty Byron texts they must have stuffed in their backpacks in their trippity hoppity mid-90's escapades, and you'll get some idea whereof I speak.
I enjoy high, lilting, surprising little records like this one; It's short and shimmery and although after every sugary pretty song you expect a downtempo disappointer, a tad a slab of filler, but no, it never comes.

Gorgeous sheets of sound.......2007-07-06

This may be my favorite album of 2007 so far (we still have another 6 months to go!) Gorgeous dream pop that hearkens back to the early 90s shoegazer days. Kevin Shields would be proud. I hear some Cocteau Twins in there somewhere as well, which is why it is the most erotic record that I have heard in a long time. Sit in a room by yourself and let the sounds permeate.

23 is a Keeper!!.......2007-06-27

In my never ending search for new sounds, bands I have not heard I came across this band. Very impressed with their sound, great vocals and the music quite original. At first I was not sure about the female lead vocals but in time it became quite interesting. But also to my surprise, when I thought that only she did the singing, another male vocals came to play which in my opinion made the album much better if for the change of pace alone. Never heard of Blonde Redhead before this and by the time the CD had ended I was definitely sold and bought for. I would rate them higher than a 4 but not quite a 5. This is a very delicately woven endeavor and it shows. Now all I need is to play it at a louder volume with a more concentrated sweet smoke and enjoy the ride, they are a classy act and I am very happy I found them. The sound was tight and the songs interesting and appealing, did not find a bad one to complain about. Like most albums there are standouts but the overall quality of the songs is there. Yes, I know, I am not a professional critic that is able to dissect the songs to their lowest denominator and that knows the history of the band. No. I am an avid fan of good music and believe me when I say it is indeed a rare treat to find an act that deliver the goods. I like to change the famous saying "All Men are equal but some are more equal than others" to "All Bands are equal but some are more equal than others". Blonde Redhead "23" was certainly a good buy, one I am very content with, and when it comes down to it, what more can a music loving consumer wish for?

SWEET EDGE.......2007-06-26

I've never heard of them until lately.

If you like catchy melodies, sweet music and some edge to your music... this is the blonde redhead album to buy. Their earlier albums are raw, less friendly, and less catchy. This album fits into the Cocteau Twins/Sugar Cubes category.

If you're looking for harder stuff like Artic Monkeys, don't buy this album.

Gems: Dr Strangeluv, S.W., 23, Silently, My Impure Hair.

HUUUUUUGE disappointment.......2007-06-18

As a fan of Blonde Redhead's work for quite some time, I bought this as soon as I had money to do so. I was so excited to hear this record. I loved their old stuff, I loved Misery...even with how different it was from the old stuff. It was just so beautifully done, I didn't care. 23, on the other hand, is just plain bad. The music definitely picks up where Misery left off, but it's really boring. The vocals are equally boring. There is no intensity at all to this. Not to mention that there is no artwork really to speak of. The red wrap around banner is pretentious to say the least. Open it up and there's....nothing. No lyrics, no liner notes, nothing to really draw people to actually purchase this, as opposed to downloading it. Then again, the music doesn't really do that, either.

Average customer rating:

Tour de force
Another Stellar Performance
The Title Says it All!
Stunningly good remaster
On the Threshold of a Masterpiece

On the Threshold of a Dream
The Moody Blues
Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

In Search of the Lost Chord
To Our Children's Children's Children
Question of Balance
Every Good Boy Deserves Favour
Days of Future Passed

ASIN: B000002GQH
Release Date: 1997-05-20

Tracks:

In The Beginning
Lovely To See You
Dear Diary
Send Me No Wine
To Share Are Love
So Deep Within You
Never Comes The Day
Lazy Day
Are You Sitting Comfortably?
The Dream
Have You Heard (Part 1)
The Voyage
Have You Heard (Part 2)

Amazon.com

Released in 1969, just eight months after In Search of the Lost Chord, Threshold continues the Moody Blues's journey as cosmic seekers but in a less exotic manner. Here, Justin Hayward packs away the sitar and the band has swept most of the mystical and Eastern influences under the Kilim rug, replacing them with a science-fictional search for meaning and futuristic production methods. As on two earlier albums, Graeme Edge regales listeners with esoteric poetry, this time adding a whimsical, ironic edge to his ponderous verse. The songs have also undergone a similar overhaul, allowing the band's talent for melody to overcome the psychedelic whirls that embellished the earlier albums. John Lodge's assertive bass takes control of the bucolic "Lovely to See You," Roy Thomas's deceptively cheerful "Dear Diary," and the upbeat "Lazy Days," which also contains an unexpected lyrical sting. Indeed, the entire album is underpinned with a wistful melancholy as the grandiose rockers capture the bittersweet fleeting moments of the '60s. --Jaan Uhelszki

Album Details

Digitally Remastered - 13 Tracks Include in the Beginning, Lovely to See You, Dear Diary, Lazy Day and More.

Customer Reviews:

Tour de force.......2007-06-06

This album truly is an absolute work of art. Others here have offered up fantastic reviews of this album, so I am only going to briefly comment on the songs that struck a particularly strong chord with me, whether good or bad.

I can honestly say that out of the thirteen tracks, there is only one that I really don't care for: 'Dear Diary'. Who knows, maybe I might learn to love this song someday, and if I do change my mind, then I will most definitely alter my negative review. But right at this moment, it's the one and only song that keeps this album from being a perfect 10 in my book. Usually- and with good reason- I am such a fan of Ray Thomas' work, but this song does absolutely nothing to present this man's awesome vocal abilities in a favorable light. Perhaps if he had sang it differently, ie in his normal vocal tone, it would most assuredly have been a great song. The tune, melody, and lyrics are quite good actually. It's the "way" that Ray sings it that turns me off- sorry Ray. (I still love and miss you, dear sir). Ray does redeem himself very well on 'Lazy Day', a sweet little ode to the peaceful times to be had on an English Sunday afternoon. It's not an intricate or deep song by any means but it has its merits.

Now on to the awesome Mr. Hayward's ballads: Justin's 'Lovely to See You' is a concert staple/favorite for a very good reason: it's a truly lovely, understated song that just makes you plain feel good! 'Never Comes the Day' is one of my favorite Justin penned/lead vocal songs. I had heard it often described as being slightly weird, the lyrics "but you WILL love me tonight" in particular. Perhaps I'm a little slow but I just don't get that feeling from this song. To me, this song is about a man in love who is honest enough to admit that there's "stuff" hidden inside of him that isn't pretty, may be hard to love, and perhaps should be kept hidden. This could be speaking of any of us, myself included. Another reason for me to admire this song: John's background vocals. Any time (on the same song) that he can sing that fab falsetto AND he and Justin can sing harmony is an oh-so-good time to be had by my eager ears. In rounding out Hayward's songs, I have only one word to adequately describe "Are You Sitting" (co-written by Ray) MAGICAL!!

What to say about my dear John's two songs: 'Send Me No Wine' is a great, catchy tune, albeit a MUCH too short one(why oh why John?) This one has a decidely country feel, flavor, and sound to it. This little gem could have come straight out of Nashville in the late 1960's and been right at home here in the Southern United States. This is truly something so very different from anything I've ever heard from him, though he still rocks it out as well. I believe John's songwriting muse short-changed him on this album, as his next great offering 'To Share My Love' is a much too brief song as well. "Makes me feel good" is how Lodge starts this ditty and it does make me feel quite good indeed to hear it, even though Pinder leads most of the vocals on this one. It;s still a good little song but I wanted to hear more. John's rocking bassline is excellent as is Graeme's accompanying drum beat. Love ya Lodgie!

Rounding out my favorites on OTTOAD: Mike Pinder's 'Have You Heard/ The Voyage'(I consider the two to be one song). I will freely admit that I am not a huge Pinder fan, but I HAVE to give the man his much-deserved props. This is, bar none, his best song EVER and it is an absolute pleasure for me to listen to it. The man has a way with words, not to mention his unsurpassed skills on every keyboard instrument known to mankind. He will forever be the Mellotron king. His voice ain't altogether half bad either. What I appreciate the most about this song is that fact that ALL of the Moodies awesome skills and talents as musicians are on pristine display here. I have only seen one "live" (it was a video, sadly) performance of HYH/TV and it quite frankly blew me away, just in seeing how passionately and ferevently the guys played their respective instruments. Oh man, what I wouldn't give to have seen this live "back in the day". If God would grant me the opportunity to go back in time to see only ONE vintage Moodies performance, it would be this song! Graeme Edge's often overlooked drum work is an absolute marvel to see and hear. Ray's flute solos have never been played with such understated zeal. Pinder is so very passionate on the piano and organ, or is it just the Mellotron? Regardless, the man has never sounded better. John's very dirty, low-down, funky, hard-driving (did I use enough adjectives?) bass work is just stellar, especially when played in unison with Edge's drum- truly a treat for the senses! The guys make me tired just watching them play, at what is at times, a frenetic pace. Can you tell that I dearly love this song?!

In closing I'd like to say that this is an album that the Moody Blues can and should be VERY proud of. It is truly a masterpiece created by the minds, hands and voices of five incredible men who are all living legends and supremely talented at their craft. If you don't already have it, get it- TODAY!

Another Stellar Performance.......2007-04-15

I rate this as my third favorite Moody Blues album behind In Search Of The Lost Chord and Seventh Sojourn . Are You Sitting Comfortably ? is my second favorite Moody Blues song . The first half of the album has some of the most pop oriented songs that the band ever did in it's second incarnation . The last 4 cuts must be listened to as a single piece . This is the first of the "art rock" bands and they were paving the way for the rest of them . It's amazing to think that they were able to get noticed at all by the general public in an era when radio stations refused to play ANY songs that ran over 3 minutes in length . This album is a facinating part of history and should be in every Moody Blues fan's collection.

The Title Says it All!.......2007-04-15

This is another Moody Blues masterpiece. it ranks in my eyes right by their ultimate achievement: "To our Children's Children's Children."

Few in my generation have not experienced the magic of this album. Every song on it is gold, and the continuity between the songs is perfect. The blending of classic orchestral instruments and rock and roll instruments is perfection. Every ballad is a work of beauty.

To feel good being seranaded by harmonizing voices blended with rich sonic tapestries is the delight of the Moody Blues that will never become outdated.

Stunningly good remaster.......2007-02-16

I used to listen to this and other Moody Blues albums on both vinyl and 8-track endlessly in. I *finally* got around to getting the CDs recently and the remaster of this album is STUNNING. I'm always a bit afraid of remastering because often the mix changes to suit the engineers or the artists as they think "it should have been". My opinion of this remaster is that it's a beautiful technology update that doesn't disturb the original music from the 1960's. The master tapes must have been in great shape, this is nearly flawless.

If you liked the Moody Blues back then, the remasters will blow you away.

On the Threshold of a Masterpiece.......2007-01-30

The Moodies put together a melotron thick album. Have You Heard parts 1 & 2 are worth the price of admission. A preview for the next album which is......

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