5 comments about Live Rare Remix Box.

1. I didn't want to invest in this set based on the
   previous reviews. But I finally gave in because sometimes
   you need more chilis. I don't care for the remix of Give it Away.
   A song this good shouldn't be messed with. The live portion just
   isn't as good as Hyde Park or Off the Map - I guess I'm spoiled. But
   the rare disc - even tho its only 4 songs they justify the cost. It
   is the peppers between 'Mother's Milk' and BSSM. 'Sikamikanico' is a
   rocking, 'everything-you-like-about-the-peppers'. Everyone is at their
   best.



2. Amazon didn't make a mistake those are all of the songs on all three discs. $63 is a little more than I'm willing to pay for 13 songs.



3. Amazon only lists the contents of disc 1, and that seems to have a lot of repetition. Not too surprising from the current "experts" posting reviews, but: Nobody here has bothered to tell what else you get for your $60+. What years (and RHCP incarnations) does it cover? What songs? How much filler? Any other materials worth mentioning in the set? Photos? Write-ups?



4. Ah, yes, you definitely seem like a die hard "CHILLIS" fan. So big a fan, in fact, that you can even spell "chili" right. So die hard that you must use all capital letters when speaking their name. What a fantastic commentary, nice work.



5. An awsome compulation of rare, live and remixed songs by everyones favorate band the red hots. A must have at to hear the funk these clever little musicians put out esspecially live for any poor person who has not attended a chilis concert yet. I give it the big three thumbs up

1 comments about The Collection: The Clash/London Calling/Combat Rock.

1. I personnaly did not buy this set, but rather the three discs separately. This is incredible music for such a low price! My jaw droped the first time I saw London Calling on sale for $8, it's a classic CD that everyone should own. This set shows the progression of the band as they go from punk foreruners to reggae explorers. The drastic changes in The Clash's style may not be for everyone, but the amount of classic tracks from "Police and Theives" to "London Calling" to "Should I stay or Should I go" make this great set worth it.

1 comments about Goths Undead.

1. This album has 26 songs from the 90s... I was expecting mostly tacky pretencious 80s-impersonators (with which, personally, I have no problem: there's something pure about rock being tacky) but this album is SO much more. I was SO impressed at the level of production in most of these songs. They are complex, and often blend intelligent techno with dark melodious Goth. Case in point: The 3rd song, Sound of Angels, by Element, and Waves of Sorrow.... brilliant sweeping landscape songs... there is some gratuitous classic goth on this album (Alien Sex Fiend; Painted Glass) but it's mostly unique and profound. Surprising! There WILL be a resurgence of Goth in the new millenium, you mark my words...! Some of these bands will have their hay-day yet...

5 comments about Seattle, Washington, November 6, 2000.

1. This particular album is so awesome. I think the live recording adds to the life of the music. Eddie Vedder has such a distinct voice. He has his soft moments and then will be completely expressive with a screaming style of singing. It sounds so good and his voice can really attract one to the lyrics of his song. Mike McCready plays the guitar so naturally and with passion. I really love the lead guitar in the song "Alive" and "Yellow Ledbetter." Both of those songs tell a story and the guitar seems to take on the role of lead singer along with Eddie. The combination of the two is an awesome call and response technique. Most of their songs create an emotion. "Alive" is deep and really draws emotion once the meaning of the song is revealed. I guess I am drawn to "Yellow Ledbetter" because of Mike McCready. The lead guitar is one of the most beautiful pieces of music I have ever heard. I do not play the guitar, but that song really makes me wish that I could. Their music is simply a pleasure to listen to and just JAM. If I had to make a comparison of music that may be sort of the same, I would have to say Nirvanna because of the similarities in the grunge style. I have every CD they have made and now I am starting to purchase their albums in vinyl.



2. Live In Seattle (Nov. 6 2000), the Pearl Jam's 72nd and final show on the 2000 Binaural Tour
   
   By the turn of the new millenium, the Pearl Jam were one of the few, if not the only band still in existance from the days of Seattle grunge. The band released 'Binural', their 6th studio album in the May of 2000 and following its released, went on tour. It was during this landmark 72 concert tour that the band came up with a completely new idea. To counterract unofficial bootlegs of their concerts, they had the whole of the tour recorded and each concert officially released on CD. No band had ever done this before and so the Pearl Jam trod in unchartered territory with this move. However, the 72 bootled styled concert releases proved to be greatly popular, especially amongst the fans who went to the concerts and wanted a record of the performance they witness. This particular gig is the Pearl Jam's final concert on tour and has gone on to be one of their most famous live performances; so how good does it shape up to be?
   
   For me, Pearl Jam live bootlegs are hard to come by as they are seldom available in England. However, I was fortunate enough to spot a copy of this CD whilst on holiday in the US and immediately snapped it up, being the fanatical Pearl Jam fan that I am. All I can say is, that if this concert is anything to go by, this is a legendary tour. This is classic live music in action. The band's studio albums are awesome but their live performances are something else. The band play stuff right across their catalogue. They far from neglect the early grunge stuff from 'Ten', 'Vs.' and 'Vitalogy' nor are they short on current/recent material and neither do they forget the fan favourites such as 'Yellow Ledbetter'. Aside from this, what makes the concert even better (and all of Pearl Jam's concerts for that fact), is its length. With most modern day bands, you probably expect up to 90 minutes music; with the Pearl Jam, you get up to 3 HOURS, yes 3 HOURS! It just goes to show, yet again how the band truly are in this for their fans and for their love of music, not the money they get from it. This concert, furthermore is interesting in a number of ways. Aside from being the last performance of the tour, it also happened to be the day before the 2000 US election, and you hear Eddie Vedder speaking about that at one point. The album also features Vedder hinting at the prospect that this concert may be the band's last ever (the band at the time was seriously thinking of retiring following the incident in Denmark where fans were killed). However following this comment, he is met by booing and jests, 'For A While, Anyway'. However, at least it is good to know that my all-time favourite band haven't thrown in the towel and are still making albums following this tour! All in all though, this is a legendary concert and one of the most remembered live moments in the band's great career.
   
   During the concert, Pearl Jam play a whole motherlode of songs from their catalogue, 30 in total. The concert kicks off with an introspective performace of 'Release', the closing classic from 'Ten'. Eddie Vedder weaves and emotional performance before the band then jam out 'Corduroy', the protest masterpiece 'Grievance' and punk-rocking 'Hail, Hail' in style. Following highly charged performances of 'Evacuation' and 'Dissident', Eddie Vedder speaks on behalf of the band for the first time in the gig. After mentioning prospects of it being 'the end' for the band and questioning the overpresence of the security guards at the concert, he introduces more 'Binaural' material in 'Nothing As It Seems'. Like a lot of material from the great 'Binaural' album, this song translates excellently live. The band play it excellently, with Gossard catching the song's slow groove with great assurance and Vedder giving another stellar vocal effort. Then, following 'In Hiding' from the 'Yield' album, Vedder marks his appreciation to Stone Gossard and Jeff Ament's 18 years of collaboration before the band proceed to give performances of 'Leatherman', 'Betterman' and 'Nothingman'. The 'Betterman' performance as usual gets a great crowd reception.
   
   CD 2 opens up next with the classic rock songs from 'Ten' in 'Even Flow' and 'Jeremy'. Even after 10 years since 'Ten', the band haven't lost their touch at playing the early material. The aggression filled 'Lukin' follows and then one of my personal favourite Pearl Jam songs in 'Not For You'. It's great to hear this dark, anti-media song played live. It's not the band's best version of the song (the bass lines and guitar hooks felt a little cut down in parts) but I enjoyed it none the less. Then, following an excellent version of 'Daughter', Eddie Vedder takes the opportunity to tell the audience how much better they were than the previous nights crowd before introducing 'Off He Goes' as a tribute to one of the fans who was killed in the Denmark incident. Following a shakey start, the band give a real emotive version of this song. 'Light Years' follows; mellow sounding and rhythmically assured, this is a great performance. Further great 'Binaural' material follows with 'Parting Ways', where the band feature string musicians to create the true style to the song. The band then close the second disc with performances of powerful album openers in 'Go' and 'Once'.
   
   CD 3 is the climax of this great concert. 'Crazy Mary' transmits well, with Vedder giving a strong performance and then the band play their ode to suicide in 'Immortality' with its beautiful riffs and thoughtful lyrics. An inspired jam in 'Alive' follows before Vedder makes a few jibes at Bill Gates before picking up his ukelele and playing 'Soon Forget'. Eddie Vedder then gives an assertive speech on advising people to go out and vote in the coming election before he gets the crowd brimming when he says about the up and coming encores. The first two of these are takes on some songs by the Who. The band gives great versions of 'The Kids Are Alright' and 'Baba O'Riley' before playing their classic finishing song in 'Yellow Ledbetter'. Vedder's vocals deliver once again and McCready's guitar work is first rate.
   
   All in all this is a great concert. Eventhough the band don't give their best live takes on some of the songs and there are some notable slips occasionally, you can't deny that this is a great concert. This finish in Seattle to the band's mammoth tour is a memorable concert and is a great addition to any serious Pearl Jam fan's collection, provided you can get your hands on a copy!
   
   MY RATING: 9/10



3. I think the album speaks for itself, therefore I will not comment on the bredth of the songs played or the energy you feel from the crowd and PJ (although I just did didn't I?).
   
   Anyway, for all you naysayers out there commenting on the politics, and "rants" from Eddie in this concert I do have a few words...The politics and issues behind Pearl Jam's music is what makes them a great band. They are not just among the best musicians in the business, but the passion behind their message is unmatched in a mainstream band. PJ is clearly touched by social issues and is doing what it can to spread their message. If you don't appreciate musicians speaking their mind then don't go to PJ shows or listen to their music, its an essential component. After all, the best art is that which comes from the heart. To quote another favorite of mine, Greg Brown: "There's a singer singing about nothing at all, but he looks pretty good and he's knocking them dead down at the mall"...a fine statement about mainstream music. Fortunately, with Pearl Jam, you get the best of both worlds and with this concert hours and hours of listening enjoyment to reflect on the impression this band has left on the music world and the world as a whole.



4. I'm the owner of roughly one out of every six 2000 bootlegs, and this one is the best. The lyrical flubs that plague some shows limit themselves here to Evenflow. To make up for it, all Pearl Jam does is give us transcendent takes on virtually all of their best material. If Betterman, Corduroy, Dissident, Hail Hail, Immortality, In Hiding, Leatherman, Not for you, Nothing as it Seems, Nothingman, Parting Ways, RVM, Soon Forget, or Yellow Ledbetter are your favorite Pearl Jam songs, you'll find them performed at their finest here. And YES, Ed finally gets Immortality right! Also included are excellent Who covers: Baba O'Riley and The Kids are Alright. If there's any criticism to be found, it's because of the relative absence of No Code/Yield material. I don't know about you, but getting a definitive collection of the rest of their music is good enough for me.
   
   After what turned out to be the defining year of the band's career, the emotions run high in every Mike McCready guitar solo, every Matt Cameron drum beat, and every word out of Eddie Vedder's mouth. If you can't feel it, I don't know what to tell you. It just always seems to get a little dusty in my room when I'm playing the third disc, and Ed says "This is it... this is it, and we go home... We'll see you in the voting booth tomorrow." The world's greatest rock band, home after six months of triumph and tragedy... and then Yellow Ledbetter starts up.
   
   *sniff*
   
   Just buy this CD. Do it now.



5. i bought this one in 2001 i believe.. sometime in june.. it has to be the greatest live album i've heard.. the sound quality was excellent, and everything.. awesome setlist, i just wish it had Breath or Last Exit on it.. but regardless it's a great live album.. and i would prolly pay $300 to have gone.. but i didnt really listen to Pearl Jam till march of 2001.. if you haven't kept track with the band, no they did not break up or anything.. actually they released another album (Riot Act), a few live concert CDs from that tour (the PA State College one is pretty good).

   THEN they released the long awaited Rarities album, and live DVD of their Maddison Square Garden concert.. which is deffinetly worth buying. keep on rocking!

5 comments about Bowie at the Beeb: The Best of the BBC Radio Sessions.

1. David Bowie-Bowie At The Beeb ****
   
   
   For die hard David Bowie fans this is in as few words as possible a must have and a treasure. This is a incredible collection of David Bowie during the late 1960's to about 1972. This are all performances of Bowie at BBC in England. This three disc set is different then the other collection which only contains the first two discs.
   
   The first disc is a collection of songs that the average listener would not recognize as David Bowie songs. Some of the performances on this disc are uncomfortable as the range of styles is all over the board showing weakness that Bowie rarely shows. Highlights from the disc include 'In The Heat Of The Morning' 'Bombers' and the Hunky Dory featured 'Kooks.' But over all Bowie feels awkward during these performances like he had not yet found his skin.
   
   The second disc is the real gem in the collection. This is made up of material from Bowie's Hunky Dory and The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars. This is a great collection of music on this disc as it overs new and different takes on classic songs from Bowie's canon of music. Mick Ronson really shines during these performances. The whole disc is a real treat.
   
   The last disc only appears on only this version of Bowie At The Beeb. this is a performance from 2000 showcasing Bowie showing his age which is something we never expected from him. For one he still looks 25, and acts it but on stage now he doesn't hardly move and performs as if he is giving a speech. The performances sound great but you can tell, not to sound to cliche, that Bowie didnt really leave a pint of blood on the stage. Though 'Im Affraid Of Americans' 'Always Crashing In The Same Car' and 'Fame' are performed fantastically.
   
   Bowie At The Beeb is an interesting find if you can find it, it is worth the price but really only if you are a serious David Bowie fan.



2. `Beeb' is a British affectation for the BBC, the state-run media which plans (or planned) all television and radio for Great Britain. Bowie was around when the BBC was implementing its 4-station radio broadcasting, and he became one of the first guests in early 1968. BBC rules were strange and archaic by American standards, insisting that pre-recorded music represent only a fraction of airtime, the point being that this would provide employment for professional musicians. So it was that David Bowie appeared with a crew of musicians to perform his songs live a number of times over a four-year period.
   I'm a very big fan of Bowie's early work (reference my review of Images 1966-1967 if you're interested), but the earliest sessions on this collection are the least fulfilling. Disk one holds interest to Bowie-philes for historic reasons, but it is disk two that presents the artist in full flight. Working with Mick Ronson, his Ziggy Stardust-era songs shine brilliantly here, in some cases rivaling the album versions. "Hang On to Yourself," "Suffragette City," and "Ziggy Stardust" all rock with authority and grace. "Queen Bitch" has more energy than the version on Hunky Dory, while the songwriting brilliance of songs like "Changes" and "Oh You Pretty Things" come through loud and clear. Most telling are the two Velvet Underground songs performed here. Both "White Light/White Heat" and "Waiting For My Man" are definitive, surpassing all Bowie versions that were previously available and perhaps even surpassing Lou Reed's original versions.
   For those of you who are lucky enough to find it, a limited edition of this package comes with an extra disk of Bowie performing live at the BBC radio theatre in June of 2000. Search it out! The extra disk is extraordinary, featuring some of the best live Bowie ever recorded. The band is phenomenal, playing each song to perfection without sacrificing any energy. This version of "Stay" blew me away, forcing me to recognize the sheer funky power of this band. Just as mind-boggling are the versions of "Fame" (a new, `improved' version!), "Absolute Beginners" and "Man Who Sold the World". Every track on this extra disk is exceptional, making it an absolute must for even casual fans of David Bowie. A- Tom Ryan



3. David Bowie is indisputibally on of the most talented artists in music ever. His songwriting is always at a peak, and was always excellent in his early days, and that is proved on this fantastic collection from the BBC. All live, but you wouldn't know it because it's sounds as clear as his studio recordings. And how about those lyrics? Bowie is so inventive, and he's never gotten the due he's deserved. Look at the amount of work he's accomplished, and look how good he can still be; even better than most. He's amazing. One listen to this collection and you'll realize he's amazing too, i hope. If you're still in doubt listen to all of ziggy stardust, but trust me you'll love it.



4. CD2 - The first CD could be a symphony of (flatus) and I'd still give this 5 stars for the nearly immaculate performances on the second disk. In particular, "Hang Onto Yourself" (track 3), "White Light/White Heat," and "Suffregette City" (featuring Mick Ronson making this totally hot kissing noise with his guitar)crackle with energy. It is truly a thrill to hear these old favorites in such a new (as such) and exciting light. Bowie and Co. burn down the BBC studios. Repeatedly. Any rock fan (but especially an old Bowie fan, of course) is likely to meltdown in ecstacy upon hearing this.
   
   CD1 - Many hardcore fans will surely (sweet milk) over CD1 as well although I'm not personally crazy about all of it. Some of David's early Brittish folk period is represented which can be a bit hippy-dippy at times. The first 4 tracks, recorded in May of '68, fit that description although they do feature brilliant in-studio orchestral accompaniment.
   
   Much of CD1 does in fact rock. "Let Me Sleep Beside You" and "Janine" are very good, easy-going rockers recorded with Junior's Eyes who had a short-lived collaboration with Bowie and the session was never broadcast. Bowie delivers a stunning solo performance of Jacques Brel's "Port of Amsterdam" (vocal and guitar). The same session shows off Mick Ronson just a few days after hooking up with Bowie for the first time. They perform an intriguing, half-written version of "Width of a Circle." Ronson really cuts loose on "Unwashed and Somewhat Slightly Dazed" and "Cygnet Committee" is positively intense. Some studio hum can be heard on the session, an atmospheric reminder of the electric nature of these proceedings (that may or may not appeal to the listener). "Memory of a Free Festival" had sadly been edited for time and remains so.
   
   Recorded in June of '71, the last session on CD1 features all of the future Spiders From Mars as well as some friends on vocals and guitarist Mark Carr-Pritchard who played for a phantom Bowie project called Arnold Corns. Early embryonic versions of "Moonage Daydream" and "Hang Onto Yourself" were recorded and released under that name. The group stomps through "Bombers," a rare HUNKY DORY-era cut that sounds better (and less cheesy) than the studio version which I have as a bonus cut from the RYCODISK release of HUNKY DORY. "Looking For A Friend" is a country-ish, Stones-y rocker and they also turn in a rousing cover of Chuck Berry's "Almost Grown." And Bowie performs "Kooks" solo on vocal and guitar which he had just written for newborn son Zowie.
   
   Note: Those concerned about excessive voice-overs from BBC radio hosts (like the ones that marred the Jimmy Hendrix BBC release) can relax. There's very little talking over the songs and quite a bit of interesting Bowie banter on CD1. CD2 has nothing but back-to-back songs. Tracks begin with actual songs, not the preceeding dialogue.
   
   Bonus Disk (June 27, 2002 live at BBC Radio Theatre) - ****1/2 Excellent line-up (Earl Slick, Mike Garson), great choice of songs, Bowie in top form. Still, something's missing. A little too slick and professional, maybe? But this is great stuff. "Seven" comes off really well. "Always Crashing In The Same Car" is excellent and much more organic than the album version. The studio wizardry of "Little Wonder" and "Hallo Spaceboy" is expertly reproduced. This album takes on more definition with repeated listens and sounds better over time too. (Many live recordings can initially sound "same-y" from song to song due to same background vocalists, etc.)
   
   We can probably thank Kurt Cobain for reviving Bowie's interest in the post-apocalyptic "Man Who Sold The World," wonderfully played here. "Fame" is vamped-up with a slightly altered rhythm, still funky as ever. "Stay" rocks out. And on the final cut, "Let's Dance" is reimagined as a Carribean breeze before, suddenly, the beat kicks in and the audience "trembles like a flower."
   
   This entire package is most worthy. Highly recommended!



5. I rarely listen to this although having said that I have been listening to it a lot more recently. The fact is is that this is a hard thing to recommend. You might not have some of the songs that are on here and for that you might want to top up. I bought it as an overview of Bowie's earlyish career ( I'm not going anywhere near The Laughing Gnome ). Which in hindsight was probably a bit of a mistake but I wouldn't buy this album if it didn't have the extra CD - call me banal if you will but that's what happens when you have collector tendancies in you!

   Bowie's early stuff ( pre-Ziggy ) sounds anodyne and twee. The conversations you hear on the CD make Bowie seem genuinely nervous but pleasantly friendly. Of course he might not do one song " because to do it would be possibly over everyone's budget." You could take that as nerves if you will but this is the BBC we're talking about. Their budgets at the time were not astronomical.

   I've said this before that when you see " Live At The BBC " it doesn't really mean it's really *live* if you've ever heard BBC radio presenters like John " that was quite tasty " Peel or any others you'll know that they say " and we have [musician's name] here live in the studio." It's in a studio and it will never give you a live feel for the songs. It's just BBC engineers working on Bowie's songs and in return you could I suppose think of them as session outtakes from his album. But one thing should be made clear - if you haven't got Bowie's version of Jacques Brel's Amsterdam, this is where you can get it. It's passion almost matches Le Grand Jacques in it's intensity

   As the second CD moves and the classics come in you begin to think " this is more like it " and Bowie seems more at ease with everything. Notice his covers of White Light/White Heat ( " make me sound like Lou Reed ")

   Now the third CD becomes even more sprawling since it tries to fill in all the places that the first two CDs left out. And it's not always a winner. Little Wonder and I'm Afraid of Americans are terrible songs but actually sound better than what they sounded like on their original album. Still doesn't make it good but at least you can probably tolerate it this time. But overall it didn't capture the gig very well since I saw this on TV when I was 15 and I thought the gig was fantastic. Bowie really had them going ( but then that was to be expected right? ), the CD just doesn't capture the songs well and though I like nearly all of the songs, it lacks the cohesion that the show actually had. Still, for the money I paid for this it's not too bad. But then, there's always a nagging feeling that it could be improved but whatever about that, the sheer amount of material you have here you can be somewhat happy if you want to buy this.....of course that is if you are a diehard fan. If you're not - try figuring out which compilation you want to get of Bowie. There's a lot of them around!

5 comments about Surrounded.

1. Bjork in 5.1, need I say more! Her beautiful music in all it's glory coming at you from 6 speakers. If you are new to Bjork this box set is a bargain. Rather than purchase her albums individually, you get them all here, re-mastered in 5.1 & DTS for a pretty good price. If you are already a fan, then you need this. Each album features the original sound in stereo on one side and the entire album again in DTS & 5.1 on the other. If that is not enough for you, each disc also includes the videos from each release (also in 5.1) and a very entertaining behind the scenes look at the making of `triumph of a heart." The music sounds fantastic and I think it's awesome that the art work and packaging of each disc has not changed. My only gripe with this set is that there is nothing to look at while the music (DVD side) is playing. Bjork's duel disc version of her latest release (Volta) displays various promo shots in a slideshow while each track plays. This would have been an awesome addition to an otherwise excellent collection.



2. Not since Kate Bush have I been so impressed with a singer/performer like Bjork. She brings passion and pure joy to everything she touches. This box set is a must (and it includes DVDs of her videos). But Bjork is best experienced live - get all of her DVD concerts! That is where she truly shines. I especially recommend the Royal Opera House DVD.



3. Esperé bastante tiempo para comprar este Set, pero el reciente concierto de BJORK aquí en Bogotá Colombia me movió a comprarlo de inmediato, ya antes tenía todos los cds y dvds antes, pero, voy a eplicar por qué este set realmente vale la pena.
   
   Vale la pena por que la musica de bjork tiene muchísimas dimensiones acusticas, y simplemente no has escuchado nada, si no lo escuchas en DTS 5,1. Imagina los compases iniciales de PAGAN POETRY, en los que aparecen como cascadas estos pequenos sonidos.... no en un recorrido de izq - derecha... sino pasando lentamente desde tu espalda a la izquierda, luego sintiendolo frente a ti y posteriormente su eco a tu derecha alejandose....
   
   simplemente increible, escuchas con muchisima claridad cada instrumento.. es mas.. compare el cd normal contra el DVD DTS y de lejos.. la claridad del sonido y su distribución espacial te permiten escuchar cosas que antes eran inperceptibles.
   
   Esta colección es mi regalo de navidad: para mi.. y creo que no saldre a vacaciones.. por que debo encontrarme otra vez con toda la obra de Bjork.
   
   Algo adicional, es que en esta edicion el audio de los videos (vienen todos los video clips de bjork hasta antes del joga) están mezclados en DTS 5.1
   
   Si no puedes escuchar la senal de DTS, recuerda comprar el cable de fibra optica para conectar tu reproductor al Home Teather, esa es la solución.



4. Okey, I've read so many negative reviews about this product I want to share my experience this this box-set.
   
   
   First off, the bad things:
   1. If you don't have a DTS/Surround 5.1 system you're not going to enjoy the experience of being "surroundede" by the music. These days those equipments are not so expensive and you can have one for 200 bucks or less.
   
   2. Is a must to have a DVD player of Stereo system capable of reading DualDiscs. In my house I can play the DVD-audio side on my DVD player but not the CD side (!). I also use my computer to hear music and it can read both sides. Just in case, I own an IntelCore iMac. I strongly recommend to TEST your own equipment with dualdiscs BEFORE you buy the box set. Lend a friend's dual disc. Try it on your stereo, your computer, your laptop until you are SURE that there's not gonna be any problem with this kind of problematic media.
   
   
   The GOOD things:
   1. The sound is KILLER! The DTS sound is rich and powerfull. I only have a CHEAP Sony 5.1 DTS system (3 frontal speakers, two side speakers, and a non-active subwoofer) Some problems with the sub side but the rest is crystal clear. My favorite album is Vespertine... the surround arrangments enhance the atmosphere of the songs (like in Cocoon or Heirloom) THhe channle separation is perfect to make your house rumble. crank the volume in Pluto and prepare to be slammed against your wall.
   
   2. Package is sweet: Hot copper stamping over a holding carboard case. The printed art is Bjork-ish and I really love it. You have all jewel cases arranged inside, protected from dust and humidity. Some guy mentioned the "special" Dual-Disc version. Well, that version is cool (rounded corners and a curved side) but is a big problem to put that thing on a CD shelf. Think about if before buying.
   
   3. You got all the Björk discograhy/videography (even the weird Drawing restraint soundtrack) in one box. Is not pricey of you are patient and wait (like me) to have a discount from Amazon. I purchased it for 80 bucks (plus shipping). Great deal, considering I live overseas and don't have free- shipping benefits.
   
   
   My final balance: To me this is a great oportunityt to get all the Björk's studio music and videos, nice packaged and with a fantastic 5.1 sound. Please, before you buy this set do some test on the equipment you own. In that way you won't be dissapointed once it's in your home and you can't play the (damn) discs. This is what I did and I'm now very happy to have the entire collection of one of the most versatile and original artists in the world.



5. So it is no question that Bjork is not your typical mainstream artist. She is unlike anything else. She has the voice, the mind, the need, and the power to create and design, beautiful art, whether it is musically, or visually.
   
   In Bjork's new (__Surrounded) you will find everything from the "Debut" in '93 until her latest "Medulla" in '04. Every record on the collection has been re-mastered on the DVD side. They each, except for Selmasongs and Drawing Restraint 9, include their accompanied videos. Those beautifully made videos that can only come from the master mind that Bjork is.
   
   It is no doubt that Bjork grows with time, and this collections shows it. The videos, the music, the arrangements, it all changes, into the world called Bjork. The collection is definitely worth the buy, worth the money and worth the try. Even if you are the biggest fan, or most importantly, have all the CD's, (__Surrounded) is the way to go.

5 comments about Greatest Hits of the 80's.

1. There are some very obscure and unfamiliar songs included on these 8 cds. Not sure where they were "hits" because I never heard them before. Maybe they were top 40 in places like the middle east or europe in the 80s - I don't know. I didn't like most of them. I think after reviewing all the disks I liked perhaps 15 songs in the entire collection. There is nothing wrong with the disks or the music. The Quality is good. Just be sure that you review the song list before purchasing.



2. I only reconized 12 of the songs on these cd's. most of them were wimpy dippy songs I hated. Where are the real hits? there were numerous hits by The Police, Peter Gabriel, Simple Minds, Duran Duran and others which would hve been far better that the junk on this set. What a disappointment!



3. Being a BIG fan of 1980s era music, finding this 8 CD box set was really a treasure. Sure, I have a lot of the songs available on the discs in my huge 80s MP3 song collection (16 discs worth so far and still growing), but there are so many others included that I would never have known about or heard since they only aired in the UK. Of course, there are a few other excellent European music artists that do not show up in the set. People like Shakin' Stevens, Don McLean, English Beat and Madness; but they can be mostly found in other collected sets (with the exception of Shakin' Stevens, which is a shame, because his rock n' roll music is excellent). My only complaint about this box collection is the lack of information in concerns to the album each song was taken from and the confusion I have about the two numbers after each title (for example: Adrian Gurvitz: Classic 3,39). Does this mean track 3, Billboard rating 39? I don't know. Other than this minor issue, I highly recommend this CD set for any fan of the 80s music era. You won't be disappointed at the selection and quality.



4. This box set has something for everyone, especially if you want an idea of what was popular in Europe during the Eighties, i.e. names like Sandra, Kajagoogoo, Mel & Kim, Duran Duran, Ultravox... Many, many big hits and a bunch of unknown gems for those who want to explore.



5. In a few words, I can explain why I think this collection fails as a "greatest hits of the 80's" album. There is an absence of: Eurythmics, George Michael, Corey Hart, Wham, and just take a look at the track list, because mine goes on. I guess for the bargain price, expectations can't be set that high. You get what you pay for.

5 comments about From Croydon to Cuba: An Anthology.

1. I am not one who is given to hyperbole, but this is truly the best multi-disc career retrospective that I have encountered. The late, great Kirsty MacColl is truly the most underrated singer/songwriter ever. And Virgin has done right by her in a generous, comprehensive collection full of previously unheard or long out of print tracks. I am particularly pleased in the generous helping of songs from my favorite album of Kirsty's, 1989's "Kite," but each period of her well-documented career is represented well here. But in many cases the previously unreleased tracks are as good as the well-known (to her fans, anyway) tracks - what a treat to have "Still Life," "London Bridge is Falling Down," "Manhattan Moon" and the wonderful cover of Grace Jones' "Libertango (I've Seen That Face Before)". Marvelous. Buy this now and begin to be cast under the spell of Kirsty's wit, multi-layered vocals and breathtaking songcraft.



2. Because I love Tropical Brainstorm so much, I wanted more of Kirsty MacColl's music. Don't bother with this 2-disk album. Half of this album is most of Tropical Brainstorm, but not all of it. The other half is Kirsty's earliest music, which is bubblegum pop. Very disappointing. I would give the Tropical Brainstorm portion of this album 5 stars, and I would give the other stuff 1 star. That's how I came up with my overall 3-Star rating. But buy Tropical Brainstorm instead. And if you have and love Tropical Brainstorm and want more of Kirsty's flawless, sultry voice, buy something other than this Anthology.



3. The music is fun and original. Definitely recommend. Fresh, funny, moving and a Latin beat to boot.



4. Great talent...then and now. Never understood whe "He's on the Beach" wasn't a smash hit...one of my alltime favorites...perhaps just ahead of her time. This compilation will satisfy anyone who enjoys fresh music, as it is pretty certain you haven't heard most of this on the radio (if you have, please let me know where you live)...Buy it and enjoy.



5. Great talent...then and now. Never understood why "He's on the Beach" wasn't a smash hit...one of my alltime favorites...perhaps just ahead of her time. This compilation will satisfy anyone who enjoys fresh music, as it is pretty certain you haven't heard most of this on the radio (if you have, please let me know where you live)...Buy it and enjoy.

5 comments about Bowie at Beeb: Best of BBC Radio 68-72.

1. If you're a bowie fan, you're in for a treat. I first heard tracks from this album while I was sitting in a coffee shop. I thought he'd done some new live acoustic recordings, they sounded so fresh. There are a lot of tracks and some clunkers, but the good ones make up for it. Bowie is of course and incredible performer and the necessity of these stripped down BBC recordings lets his performances shine. He rips into the songs in a way that's not possible on a studio album. Magical!!



2. 
   If you have any notion of buying this great set, look at the used listings for the earlier, limited edition, now OOP, 3CD set.
   
   It contains a fabulous live disc recorded at the BBC London Theatre 06/27/00 that this later edition does not have.
   
   Check out the tracklist for the live disc:
   
   Disc: 3
   1. Wild Is The Wind
   2. Ashes To Ashes
   3. Seven
   4. This Is Not America
   5. Absolute Beginners
   6. Always Crashing In The Same Car
   7. Survive
   8. Little Wonder
   9. Man Who Sold The World
   10. Fame
   11. Stay
   12. Hallo Spaceboy
   13. Cracked Actor
   14. I'm Afraid Of Americans
   15. Let's Dance
   
   As of this writing, the OOP 3CD is available here on Amazon for less, used, than this 2-disc set, new.
   
   Don't pass up the opportunity to get the live CD. The audio is first rate, and the performance is excellent.
   
   Link to the original 3CD BBC set.



3. Contrary to the reviews here- i think disc One is the stunner here featuring many of Bowies earliest mod folk and acoustic rockers. God knows im good- (Brels) Amsterdamn -In the heat of the morning and well pretty much all of the first disc capture David at his early climb to fame. The interviews and radio chatter only enhance the uniqueness and rarity for fans. Its all very informative and captures a time and place and the sound is excellent- you can almost sense coming superstardom in the confidence of the material and in the band. Disc two contains most of his Ziggy Stardust material which ofcourse is all good but basically sounds like demos of that album and for the most part is very familiar even to the casual fan. The acoustic versions of Supermen and Andy Warhol would have sat better on disc one as they flow into that material better. This is a great bargain especially used nearly 40 songs of Bowie at his peak. Disc One however finds itself on permanent rotation in my cd player- i could listen to this all day.



4. CD2 - The first CD could be a symphony of (flatus) and I'd still give this 5 stars for the nearly immaculate performances on the second disk. In particular, "Hang Onto Yourself" (track 3), "White Light/White Heat," and "Suffregette City" (featuring Mick Ronson making this totally hot kissing noise with his guitar)crackle with energy. It is truly a thrill to hear these old favorites in such a new (as such) and exciting light. Bowie and Co. burn down the BBC studios. Repeatedly. Any rock fan (but especially an old Bowie fan, of course) is likely to meltdown in ecstacy upon hearing this.
   
   CD1 - Many hardcore fans will surely (sweet milk) over CD1 as well although I'm not personally crazy about all of it. Some of David's early Brittish folk period is represented which can be a bit hippy-dippy at times. The first 4 tracks, recorded in May of '68, fit that description although they do feature brilliant in-studio orchestral accompaniment.
   
   Much of CD1 does in fact rock. "Let Me Sleep Beside You" and "Janine" are very good, easy-going rockers recorded with Junior's Eyes who had a short-lived collaboration with Bowie and the session was never broadcast. Bowie delivers a stunning solo performance of Jacques Brel's "Port of Amsterdam" (vocal and guitar). The same session shows off Mick Ronson just a few days after hooking up with Bowie for the first time. They perform an intriguing, half-written version of "Width of a Circle." Ronson really cuts loose on "Unwashed and Somewhat Slightly Dazed" and "Cygnet Committee" is positively intense. Some studio hum can be heard on the session, an atmospheric reminder of the electric nature of these proceedings (that may or may not appeal to the listener). "Memory of a Free Festival" had sadly been edited for time and remains so.
   
   Recorded in June of '71, the last session on CD1 features all of the future Spiders From Mars as well as some friends on vocals and guitarist Mark Carr-Pritchard who played for a phantom Bowie project called Arnold Corns. Early embryonic versions of "Moonage Daydream" and "Hang Onto Yourself" were recorded and released under that name. The group stomps through "Bombers," a rare HUNKY DORY-era cut that sounds better (and less cheesy) than the studio version which I have as a bonus cut from the RYCODISK release of HUNKY DORY. "Looking For A Friend" is a country-ish, Stones-y rocker and they also turn in a rousing cover of Chuck Berry's "Almost Grown." And Bowie performs "Kooks" solo on vocal and guitar which he had just written for newborn son Zowie.
   
   Note: Those concerned about excessive voice-overs from BBC radio hosts (like the ones that marred the Jimmy Hendrix BBC release) can relax. There's very little talking over the songs and quite a bit of interesting Bowie banter on CD1. CD2 has nothing but back-to-back songs. Tracks begin with actual songs, not the preceeding dialogue.



5. This is yet another interesting byproduct of the recent rush to re-release Brit groups and stars who performed during rock's glory age for various BBC TV and radio programs. Usually these are a mixed bag, as they often collect different time periods, different settings, different styles, and different sound dynamics, all wrapped onto one or two discs. Notable recent BBC collections include an early collection by the Beatles, a generally enthusiastic release from the Kinks, a great Led Zeppellin cd, and a very strong late-period Procol Harum set.
   
   This one is no different. Like those I mentioned, the first cd of Bowie at the Beeb collects several early live performances of a red-hot Bowie fresh off the high of "Space Oddity" performing an eclectic set of solo, small group acoustic, and rock performances. Leaving aside the annoying BBC host who is always omnipresent in these sets, Bowie turns in a strong yet tentative collection of his early songs, some joined by Mick Ronson toward the end of the disc. Standouts include "Janine," "The Width of a Circle," and a rave-up performance of "It Ain't Easy." Those familiar with the early Bowie sound will find it in abundance on the first cd, an obvious talent looking for the right sound and fit for his muse, trying on and abandoning different styles but always a solid performer throughout.
   
   The second cd finds a far more confident Bowie a few years later (1972) in a studio setting, bringing his amped-up Ziggy Stardust persona and ripping through a blistering set of highlights from that period. The sound (recorded with overdubs in the studio) is especially fine, and the performances first-rate -- Mick Ronson leaves no prisoners as he slashes through "Hang on to Yourself" and "Ziggy Stardust." Bowie even brings on a large contingent of supporters later on to help him with a superb set that includes "Starman," "Space Oddity," and "Changes."
   
   Bowie fans will rejoice. I hope the Bowie archivists start releasing more of his early and mid-period live sets, as we have seen with other similar artists, so we can fill in the missing pieces in the evolution of a singular rock icon.

5 comments about Clash on Broadway.

1. Well, here it is - your Clash collection. Get _London Calling_, and get this. You will be set for a good couple of years, maybe for good. It's not often that I tell people to basically forget about buying an artist's albums and go straight to the boxed set, but in this case, it's the way to go. The compilers have done a great job, and there are just too many essential b-sides, promo tracks, etc. to possibly collect any other way.
   
   If you decide down the road that you want to be a completist, _Sandanista_, _Super Black Market Clash_, _Combat Rock_, and _Give 'em Enough Rope_ will be out there waiting for you. But don't be surprised if you find that you've heard most of the best tracks already... they're on here.
   
   Oh yes, and download a copy of "Remote Control" too. That's the one major item missing from this set.



2. Forget about the LP tracks. In fact, I'm not sure why a few tracks from the LP's were included here. What matters is the rare stuff.
   
   This set compiles all kinds of awesome rarities, like the EP tracks and B-sides found on "Black Market Clash" and "Super Black Market Clash." You get the original versions/mixes of classics like Armagideon Time, Bankrobber, and This Is Radio Clash, plus other amazing non-album tracks such as The Prisoner, City of the Dead, Gates of the West, etc.
   
   Also, when this came out, it was pretty much the only way for us Americans to get our hands on the tracks from the Clash's debut LP that were left off the American version - Cheat, Protex Blue, 48 Hours etc. Now the UK version has been reissued in the States, so that takes the advantage away from Clash on Broadway in this regard.
   
   Broadway also includes a cuople phenomenal tracks that had never been released before: "One Emotion" and "Midnight to Stevens." Essential Clash listening, only available here.
   
   The only thing this comp is missing, oddly, is the instrumental "Listen," and the classic "Capital Radio Two"! That song was WAY better than "Capital Radio One" - way louder, way tougher, and with a way better and funnier ending. These songs are only available on "Super Black Market Clash."
   
   So, the conclusion is, if you pick up this compilation, Super Black Market Clash, and all the Clash's full length albums, you'll have everything you need. And you do, definitely, need it all.



3. Since the release of their debut album in 1977, The Clash has become one of the most important and influential bands in rock history. They are the greatest punk band of all time. They may not have been the most punk. There is a big difference between being the most punk and the greatest punk band (I just wanted to point that out), and The Clash is the greatest punk band. No band from 1977-1983, with the possible exception of The Ramones, has had such an impact on rock music as The Clash. Here's the part where I justify this claim: The Police and U2 (many people would consider these two bands as the greatest of 1977-1983) are a couple of the greatest bands ever; we all know that. They were more commercially successful, but how many people decided to start a band after hearing either of those guys. How many successful bands had a direct influence from either the Police or U2, or tried to create a sound much like theirs. The numbers don't even compare to The Clash. The Clash did so much for music and were one of the most important and popular bands of one of the most important movements in rock.
   
   The point of the above paragraph is to give a good idea of the impact and importance of The Clash. Not only that, they were talented musicians, probably the most talented of all the famous bands of the original Punk movement. Their music, combined with the political edge they gave, is shown throughout the entire "Clash On Broadway". This box set shows better than all other greatest hits cds, that The Clash deserve the spot in rock history. In the "Clash On Broadway", there is the snarling early punk they started out playing, to the more artistic and masterful works they created later on in their incredible career. All the greatest songs from all the albums are here, including the great Eps. Just about every song from the debut album is here, and so is most of "London Calling". Eleven out of the nineteen songs are on this set, but it's enough to give anyone the idea of what the album is like and about. "Clash On Broadway" gives an incredibly detailed look at all the different musical styles The Clash played: from straight-up punk rock (just about all of CD 1), to the more experimental and studio demanding songs that are on "London Calling", "Sandinsta", and "Combat Rock".
   
   The other great thing about this set is that along with the three Cds, there are two big booklets. One is of all the lyrics, and the other has all kinds of great information, including quotes from the band members and others about each song. I would highly recommend "Clash On Broadway". Even for people who don't like punk, this is just great music, and I think anybody could really enjoy and appreciate this.
   
   Stand Out Songs: The list is just too long



4. This set may not have every realevent Clash song but it is an excellent overview of their career. Better than any of the greatist hits collections and comes with a nice booklet on them.



5. After the last US election we all have to wake up to injustice and the need for the compassion of the Dalai Lama and the Passion of The Clash (no pun intended).
   
   As a 50s and 60s person I grew up with Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bo Diddly, Bob Dylan, and the Stones. You can imagine my consternation when Disco hit the big time -- I skipped most of the 70s -- then I heard The Clash.
   
   They were great punk band. They were a great rock band. They were earnest, truthful, forceful. More importantly, unlike some of the punk and rock icons, they had a real soul. In a world drowning in Ronald Reagan's war against "welfare queens" while he transferred wealth to corporate drag queens -- they were alive and focused on the real issues. In a business full of stars only interested in sex and drugs they gave us a third way. They, like Dylan addressed the problems of the day -- racism, economic opportunity, poverty, nuclear war, terrorism, injustice.
   
   Hey, about this record -- just get it and listen to White Riot, What's My Name, Career Opportunities, London Calling, the Clampdown, Guns of Brixton, and Straight to Hell -- just try to not care -- try to go back to your old ways and habits -- you will not be able to go back -- you are now The Clash and your are on a mission to make the world a fairer and more decent place -- No fear brothers and sisters.
   
   Sure U2 is great, Pearl Jam holds their own. I am not sure of Green Day will emerge as the band of the 2000s -- they all have a long way to go even carry the Clash's luggage.