5 comments about The Best of Talking Heads.

1. not including Stay Up Late. You know that song "please let me hold him, I want to make him stay up all night". If your a casual fan of TH and just wanted a greatest hits, like I said, it's almost perfect. It has the mainstream hits Take Me To The River, Once In A Lifetime, Burning Down The House, And She Was, Wild Wild Life, Psycho Killer. Although I really feel the version Psycho Chicken by The Fools is much better. But there ya go, 6 great songs for $14.99, ya ain't gonna find that on a late night infomercial.



2. .... thats what you must have if you dont grab this OUTSTANDING cd. only wish I had spotted it years ago, what a great set of tunes!!! A lot of bang for the buck.



3. The Best of Talking Heads is the latest in a (relatively short compared to other artists) line of "Greatest Hits" for the band. However, if you are someone who is looking for a single-disc package of the best songs from each of the band's albums, this is the CD for you. With an average of two songs from each album and a running time of over 75 minutes, it gives a very good overview of the band. The songs are very well picked given the limitations of the medium, and I don't think you can do much better when trying to turn a casual listener into a full-fledged fan. Sure, you can argue about the selections: "Houses in Motion" over "Born Under Punches"? No "I Zimbra"? But remember, this CD is for "new" listeners, and throwing songs like "Born Under Punches" in is like trying to teach calculus to a five-year-old. As for "I Zimbra", it pales in comparison to the other three selections from Fear of Music. Overall, this album is a great conversion tool to pop in while driving with a friend, which is exactly what it is for.



4. What's not to like , the sound is perfect , the music is awesome , great collection , highly recommended.



5. All of the best of Talking Heads, good cd!!! I hadn't heard some of the songs and love them better than the ones I had heard. Heaven is a great song and so is Road to Nowhere.

5 comments about Black Butterfly(Limited Fanclub Edition).

1. Like many people, I can't wait for Buckcherry's new albums and buy them immediately. Black Butterfly, however, sounds like a label pushed the guys to throw something out there quickly. Josh's vocals are almost swallowed up by instruments and his vocals are a huge part of what makes Buckcherry so loved. It's not a bad album and there are some good songs but mostly it just doesn't do it. Too Drunk is fun but it's kind of dumb compared to their other radio station releases. You'll like this album ok if you're a fan but it won't be a favourite. Hopefully the tour doesn't comprise songs from just this album.



2. The new Buckcherry album Black Butterfly is everything you could want in a good rock album. It has the hard and heavy songs like Rescue Me and Talk to Me, the ballads like All of Me and Don't Go Away and the token BC song to played in every bar across the world... TOO DRUNK...
   
   To ignore this album would be to ignore greatness. Although their previous platinum selling album 15 was their break through record not many people apreciate them and see them as Aerosmith and AC/DC posers. And they are no where close to them. They have their own original rock sound with a touch of the classics and mix it up with some country and blues. They are an amazing band on record and even better LIVE...



3. Buckcherry is a classically known for their Sex, Drugs, and Rock and Roll attitude at an extreme level, and this album has all of that and then some. With songs like Too Drunk, Stayin High (Demo), and Imminent Bail Out, this album is ready to party when you put it in. Not groundbreaking material at all, but they are doing what works for them, and have not compromised in any way, and the sound is still very pallitable.
   
   As for the fan club edition, excellent. The two bonus tracks of Stayin High and Nothing (both demo's) are nice addtions for a few dollars more, but the online access is really cool too. You also get to sign up for a t-shirt with the voucher and club sign-up, much like the Staind fan club edition. Worth the extra few dollars.



4. Had to get the Fan Club edition version of this album since Buckcherry is one of my top 5 fav bands of the last 10 years or so. This one contains two bonus songs, one of which ("Nothing") I would rate higher than at least 2 songs on the regular release "All Of Me", and "Don't Go Away", maybe even "Dreams" too? The other bonus track is "Stayin' High" which sounds a bit like Enuff Z'Nuff (and the topic sounds like something they would record now doesn't it?) It is a decent song also and I rate it higher than All Of Me and Don't Go Away also....what can I say, I am a big fan on Z'Nuff also!?
   
   The album has alot of promise to me, I after 3 or 4 listens put it ahead of "15" for sure. "A Child Called 'it'", "Rescue Me", and "Fallout" are my favs right now. "Rose" followed by another rocker "Imminent Bail Out" sound great back to back. "Imminent Bailout" is also up in the top tier group of favs...which may change on a daily basis now that I think about it. The song "All Of Me" doesn't belong here at all, and it to me their weakest track ever...I have yet to be able to listen to it all the way through (4 try's). "Rose" is a nice song, sorta a mid tempo ballad type thing or whatever that works, but the interruption of All Of Me is me reaching for the remote to skip it...time to get back to rocking!
   
   They do plenty of that on here, very good blues based hard rock with a dab of sleaze to be found abundant on any Buckcherry release, to be played loudly and enjoyed in all it's raucous splender.
   
   Love the guitar work on here, some nice fills, abbreviated but necessary solo's that add to the feel of each song also. The feel is good on this one, and they are to me expanding a bit and trying some somewhat new things, but at the same time not straying too far from the formula also in the process if that makes any sense? I would rate it above "15" for sure right now...I still like "Time Bomb" better...but maybe after a few more listens not by much.
   
   
   The "Best Buy Version" as it may be referred to in many circles includes a one year membership to the fanclub *explained on an insert in the packaging of the CD*
   
   With this you get:
   - 24/7 access to the members only fan club site
   - Chances to meet Buckcherry
   - Members Only Message Board (Like OMG!!111!!) j/k
   - Contest with drawings and prizes
   - And Much More (apparently)
   
   There's a coupon code on the insert that you type into a spot on the site to redeem/activate I guess.
   
   And of course you get the 2 bonus songs which are worth it for a few extra bucks.
   
   I guess depending how into this band you are, is what you decide on. Buckcherry doesn't disappoint in unreleased songs/material, if only they could better decide on a couple songs here and there to put on each CD (after Time Bomb), but I do give this one 5 stars for being 1. Generous with the 2 songs. 2. Fan Club stuff, inside info etc. gained (even if only for a year).
   
   
   Favs:
   1. A Child Called 'It'
   2. Rescue Me
   3. Fallout
   4. Rose
   5. Imminent Bail Out
   6. Too Drunk
   7. Tired Of You
   8. Cream
   9. Talk To Me
   10. Nothing (bonus track - demo )
   11. Dreams
   12. Stayin' High (bonus track - demo)
   13. Don't Go Away
   14. All Of Me



5. Just as we all knew it would be....Amazing. Nice to know Buckcherry is around still making real Rock N Roll. A def MUST buy!

3 comments about Snowflake Midnight.

1. Much is made of the electronics and atmospherics surrounding Mercury Rev, and with good reason: they have embraced an innovative aesthetic as tightly as any band out there. But when it comes down to the basics, electronic innovations do not assure anyone of a good album, and Snowflake Midnight is, most assuredly, a good album.
   
   Song structures are typically loose, with the melodies weaving in and out of a river of sounds, the lyrics bubbling to the surface, heard as if in a dream--velvety one moment, then frighteningly clear the next. The music itself at turns is sublime, noisy, glittering, lovely, and memorable.
   
   The thing that makes Snowflake Midnight such a pleasure, ultimately, is its cohesion. As I try to parse my way through the lyrics, I know there is a lot in here about love, and flowers, and...well, I'm not sure what else...but in the still seconds when the album is done, just before you press the play button again, you somehow feel that it was complete. I'd say that is a pretty good recommendation for anyone.
   
   Now, on to what may be an even greater find--Strange Attractor. You probably know that when you buy this, you get a download link to a second full album. The album, Strange Attractor, is a "companion piece" to snowflake midnight. They are an excellent counterpoint one to another. Where Snowflake Midnight has recognizable song structure, lyrics, and uses electronics as a setting for the songs themselves, Strange Attractor is all instrumental and is a feast for electronic aural soundscapes. The songs are wonderful, mysterious explorations of looped sounds, echoes, grooves that rise and fall. The entire impression is one of immense grandeur and at times loss. Perfect music to drive on a dark night on a winding road--I know because I've done it. Magical. I think I like Strange Attractor as much as Snowflake Midnight, but for completely different reasons.



2. This is Mercury Rev's seventh studio album, following on from 2005's "The Secret Migration", largely viewed as a mis-step following the critical and commercial success afforded them in the UK following "Deserter's Songs" and "All Is Dream".
   Having taken the psychedelic lullabies of their breakthrough album, 1998's "Deserter's Songs", as far as they can go over subsequent releases, and having been somewhat eclipsed as a cosmic pop force by fellow travellers The Flaming Lips, Mercury Rev have changed direction quite dramatically on their latest album.
   They have re-invented themselves once already. The first time helped to take them from avant garde sound pioneers with a small group of followers, to a major US indie act.
   Having found it difficult to continue growing as a band within the crowded indie market, they have decided to throw off the shackles once again with "Snowflake Midnight", using random note generator software and a bunch of synthesised effects to create a pulsating canvas of soothing digital ambience which belies the less-than-organic composition techniques.
   Gone is the guitar sound, or the shoegaze tendencies.
   Instead, we have swirling synths, En-esque ambience and ethereal flourishes worthy of Sigur Ros' majesty. There's not a dull moment among the nine songs that comprise this startling new beginning.
   It begins with 'Snowflake In A Hot World', an affecting mini-classic to rank among the best in the band's canon.
   The majestic sweep of old is largely absent, although "Dream of a Young Girl as a Flower" does build to a compelling Krautrock climax.
   "Tracks such as the serialist-leaning "Runaway Raindrop" with its vast cinematic sprawl, the soaring, spiralling spectacular that is "Sense On Fire", and the blissful hymnal "Faraway From Cars" more than make amends and contribute magnificently to Mercury Rev's finest offering since 1998's "Deserter's Songs".- BBC
   Give it a fair few listens and, and it will grow on you amazingly.
   Deserter's Songs
   All Is Dream
   The Secret Migration
   Back to Mine



3. This is very differnt in ways and not so in others.
   
   It sounds like a cross between "All Is Dream", "Deserter's Songs" and a trace LP.
   
   The noise is back, after leaving upon "See You On The Other Side" to a degree, which is welcomed. The first three tracks are very good but then the rest just kind of blends together.
   
   It's not their best as I'm afraid that another "Yerself Is Steam" or even "Boces" is just impossible at this point, but it is better than the last offering. These guys are always expanding and rarely make the same sounds twice on any LP which goes to show just how creative they really are.

5 comments about Greatest Hits.

1. I love this cd because it has all the songs I like in one cd saving me the time to look for them one by one.



2. This is a great collection of songs , but it's missing five hits from there album One hot minute , including Aeroplane and many other's , i guess the reason there not on here is because none of the band members were fond of Dave Navarro , which means that is why they didn't include the five hits on here , i guess they don't care if we like them.



3. All of their greatest hits plus some other tracks. This band is so talented at whipping up hits with simple chords, melodies and incredible singing it's unbelievable. GET it. It's GREAT! Two thumbs up for them.



4. I've been a fan of RHCP since the late 80's!
   I love Funk Metal and RHCP are at the top of the game!
   Breaking the Girl & Give it away are some of their best songs!
   I would rate this album a 9 from 1to10!!



5. I am not a fan of the Chilli Peppers down to every single song they have but I have found this cd hits on many of my favorite songs. Its a great buy for anyone who is even a half of a fan of the Chilli Peppers

5 comments about rearviewmirror (Greatest Hits 1991-2003).

1. Been listening to Pearl Jam for a while but had never bought any of their music and am pleasently suprised in that I thought I would like the older (relativly) stuff but I actually like the newer stuff a bit (not much) more. Overall a very good compilation.



2. What Pearl Jam did, maybe even unwittingly, was to weld the thick sludgey minor-chord sound (and general angst) of grunge to arena size rock choruses and guitar power. In doing so, they managed to quickly outshine their nearest peers (Nirvana) commercially and ultimately become the vanguard for rock through the 90's. Along with Red Hot Chili Peppers and maybe Soundgarden, they shaped the sound of a decade and thrived to see their success sustained creatively.
   
   "Rearviewmirror" reflects (har har) that 12 years between Ten and Binaural in solid fashion, even if does lean heavily on the first three albums. It also offers a dozen later track to show that, even while the band's spotlight had faded somewhat, albums like No Code were better even while the band purposely was making music that antagonized fans expecting more of "Jeremy." Treats like "Do The Evolution" and "Man Of The Hour" sound just as powerful as any of the pre-Vs. material.
   
   And for those who argue that Eddie Vedder is a big old sourpuss, they miss out on fun stuff like the tribute to old 45's "Spin The Black Circle" or the totally unironic cover of "Last Kiss" (that actually hit the top ten in 1999). Guitarist Stone Gossard rips some particularly innovative riffs through the proceedings here, and it's worth noting that Goassard (as well as the rest of the band) usually co-wrote the band's songs. On "Rearviewmirror," they are divided into two CD's, with an "Up" disc of rockers and the "Down" side of more pensive or acoustic material.
   
   It is the second disc where more of the interesting material lies for me. I've always personally felt "Better man" to be the best song Pearl Jam ever wrote, and the closer, "Yellow Ledbetter" is a damn good blues number with Mike McCready hitting a terrific facsimile of Jimi Hendrix. There is plenty of meat spread between the two discs, and for the casual radio fan of Pearl Jam, this is a great sampler at a fine price.



3. I'm going to take a different approach to reviewing albums on Amazon. Instead of going in depth on each album and describe each album in detail, i'm going to simply rate each album with how many stars I feel each album is worth based on the below criteria. I hope this helps you make a better decision on purchasing this album with a simple individual rating. If it doesn't help read another review.
   5 stars- Classic, Album goes beyond description, Perfect in every way, Could remind you of a certain time or place, Lifetime replay value.
   4.5 stars- Near Classic, Incredible album, Maybe only one song that is skippable or just overall doesn't quite deserve classic status. High replay value.
   4.0 stars- Awesome album. Very solid album from start to finish. Met every expectation and more. Maybe only one song or two that is skippable. High replay value.
   3.5 stars- Above average album. Solid from start to finish but there are a few songs worth skipping. Met expectations, minimal replay value.
   3.0 stars- Average album. Nothing bad but nothing great either. After the initial appeal will collect dust.
   2.5 stars- Major disappointment. You had high expectations that were ruined as this album is not good at all. There might be only one or two songs worth listening to. No replay value.
   2.0 stars- Below average album. This album doesnt bother you to hear as background music but you would rather not listen to it if you didnt have to. No songs really appeal. No replay value.
   1.5 stars- Terrible album. Makes one sick to hear it. Would rather throw in garbage than even waste space in your collection.
   1.0 stars- Makes one cringe and the ears bleed!
   *keep in mind, each album review might not be based on opinion of the band but the album itself in the bands discography.



4. What "Nirvana" was to some Pearl Jam was to me There is a lot of "mystery" in Ed Veds voice He doesnt wear it all on his sleeve like cobain did. I can appreciate that, as well as the lyrics.From Yellow Ledbetter to Once its an "Evenflow" from front to back on this CD.



5. Somehow I slept through the grunge rock movement in the 90s and missed this. I vaguely remember hearing PJ back then wondering how people could listen to this and call it music. Years later, I was exposed to the alternative rock music genre and "got it."
   
   If you missed the boat, this is a great way to get into PJ's music and get a sampling of their hits from different albums. Some of these hits are lovely acoustic songs or blistering electric songs you can really rock to. To improve things, you get some remastered hits and get a much better listening experience than you would ever get from the original recordings.
   
   If I really could get what I wanted, I would want a remastered PJ "Ten" album, which I think is the best PJ album. Until then this may be the best I can get. But this collection of the faster Up Side hits and slower ballad Down Side gives me a nice way to learn about the PJ albums I missed.
   
   This collection fits together well with Nirvana, Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots, Alice in Chains, and Bush grunge hits.

5 comments about Murs for President.

1. Since the very beginning of Murs' career, he has always had a different outlook on the game than his fellow peers from the west coast power-house collective, the Living Legends crew. Since 1995, Murs has been one of the hardest working rappers in the game. Officially, this is his 7th full-length album, which barely speaks of his entire career. He's a part of the collective known as 3 Melancholy Gypsy's, who've released 2 full-length albums. He's also part of the duo Felt, with Slug from Atmosphere, who are currently working on their 3rd album. And besides appearing on 7 full-length Living Legends releases, he's appeared on approximately 50 records within and outside the crew.
   
   One of the things I've always noticed about Murs is that he's never been tied down to a certain type of sound or producer. From Eligh, to Bicasso, to El-P, to 9th Wonder, to Terrace Martin; Murs stays inspired like a true artist from the golden age. Whether he's dropping material on an independent label, Definitive Jux, Rhymesayers, or Warner Brothers; Murs has never compromised the quality of his art or craft.
   
   Plain and simple, mainstream hip-hop needs a record like this. Murs brings back that golden age aesthetic to a time when hip-hop albums are vastly disposable in the commercial and underground scene. Murs has always spoke on tales of the common man, and has always brought a conscious, personal, and thought provoking message of real life events to the table. Being a long time fan, I feel Murs has really stepped up his game up lyrically, and is flexing his muscles to their tightest for his major label debut. Now more than ever, it's apparent Murs is trying to change the game with an eye-opening record of positivity and realness - and now he has the tools and the distribution to make that happen on a global scale.
   
   Having heard Murs' entire catalog, the production was the thing I was most interested in. Producers include Wild Animals, 9th Wonder, Keith Harris, Scoop DeVille, LT Moe, Khalil, Josef Leimberg, Terrace Martin, & Knotch. One of the most notable additions to the production is DJ Quik. If you are unfamiliar with the west coast legend & audiophile, just know that his mixing and engineering skills have given this production a mainstream glossiness that Murs has never had before, which demands more presence from Murs than ever before.
   
   01. Intro (produced by Wild Animals): The album kicks off with "Hail to the Chief" - a press conference style introduction. Although unnecessary, it exemplifies the magnitude of the project nicely.
   
   02. I'm Innocent (produced by 9th Wonder): An excellent opener featuring a nice sample from Honey Cone's "Innocent 'Til Proven Guilty". Murs introduces himself to the mainstream with some very nice skill. Dope quote - "I'm anti-thug, and anti-drugs, brought peace to the party and got anti-love".
   
   03. Lookin' Fly (produced by Keith Harris, co-produced & featuring Will.I.Am): This is probably the most commercial sounding track here, and Murs handles it nicely. Diehard fans of his older Living Legends material may find cuts like this a little out of the norm, yet he tackles a different sound and does it well. Features a sample of Al Hirt's "The Green Hornet Theme"
   
   04. The Science (produced by Scoop DeVille & DJ Quik): Taking a cue from revolutionary artists like KRS-One & Chuck D, Murs literally drops some "Science" on us. He speaks intelligently on new and old hip-hop, slavery, genocide, freedom, and race through the facts of cocaine and crack, and how the public and government view it. An excellent message track with live flute and bass-lines.
   
   05. Can It Be (Half A Million Dollars And 18 Months Later) (produced by Scoop DeVille): This is the lead single from the album. And it exemplifies what Murs is bringing to the game excellently. The beat is a favorite of mine, as it utilizes samples of "I Wanna Be Where You Are" by Jackson 5. Great message & great hook.
   
   06. Everything (produced by LT Moe): Nice piano-filled production with James Blunt on the hook. Definitely a different sound for Murs. And he delivers excellent lyrics and flows with an inspirational theme.
   
   07. Road Is My Religion (produced by Khalil): Nice production which includes a nice guitar and synth line. Murs speaks on the struggles of touring, missing his girl, money issues, and self-doubt. Not the most original concept, but dope nonetheless.
   
   08. Sooo Comfortable (produced Josef Leimberg, featuring vocals by Kokane): This one changes up the rhythm nicely with a smooth west coast flavored banger that features soulful hooks & production.
   
   09. Time Is Now (produced by Terrace Martin, featuring Snoop Dogg & Latoiya Williams): This is probably my favorite cut on the album. Unlike the Will.I.Am guest spot, Snoop actually drops a smooth 16 bars. The soul-clap production is straight up ear candy. Nice to see Murs getting some solid validation from one of today's most popular and recognizable rappers.
   
   10. Think You Know Me (produced by Nottz): Excellent cut here. Murs brings a little gangsta flavor here, only to eliminate any connotation that he's actually a gansgta. He's just a common man, and speaks on it in a very interesting way. Features nice samples from "Moment Of Truth" by The Originals.
   
   11. Me And This Jawn (produced by Nottz): Mainstream rap has some major problems respecting women nowadays. Murs is one of the few rappers in the game today that flips a love song in interesting ways. He describes everything about his one and only love in his life. Features samples from "For The Love Of You" by The Isley Brothers
   
   12. Love And Appreciate II (produced 9th Wonder): When Murs gets together with 9th, they make some extremely personal, and soulful cuts. This is my favorite song here. Murs is once again dropping knowledge on relationships, and he may have reached his apex here. Once again, in an age where mainstream rappers fill the air waves with misogynistic lyrics, Murs is truly a breath of fresh air. Features samples of "Now It's Time To Say Goodbye" by Freda Payne.
   
   13. A Part Of Me (produced by Terrace Martin): Here, Murs speaks about making mistakes in a relationship, his struggles with his decisions, and how much he misses his girl even though they weren't meant for each other. I honestly never thought I'd hear production like this under Murs. It brings out his emotional side as Murs let's lose heart-wrenching lyrics.
   
   14. Break Up (The OJ Song) (produced by Knotch): Murs continues with his stretch of love songs, and this one is about the painful ventures of a break-up, and how he wished she would just call him up and apologize. He would take her back at the drop of a hate; but his pride is in the way. It features a very alluring sample of "Charlene" by Anthony Hamilton. Another favorite of mine.
   
   15. Breakthrough (produced by 9th Wonder): The album closes with an excellent banger about his dreams to make changes in the game of hip-hop. By this point, nobody should have any doubt that Murs has what it takes to bring a quality change to the game. As the common man, he proclaims if the album fails and doesn't sell he'll be getting a job at McDonald's, Burger King, or maybe Target or Best Buy (at least he gets a discount). It's hard to imagine a more humble rapper than Murs.
   
   If you picked up the "Special Edition", you got the bonus DVD. The DVD is only 25 minutes long, but has an excellent production value. Basically, it's one long sketch about the 2008 Hip-Hop Presidential election. It all takes place on "3:16 News", which is a format which pokes fun at Fox News. There are 3 candidates; one is an ignorant, new-school Souljah Boy-type rapper who's only been rapping for a few months. He pretty much represents everything wack about hip-hop today. Then there's a 60-something white man who is completely out of tough with the culture and just wants to exploit it's commercialism. Then of course, we have Murs as candidate #3, who embodies all that is hip-hop - the well-educated veteran who came to take the Obama approach and change the game for the better. Not only is the program funny, it has a wealth of very interesting things to say about hip-hop. So if you're debating over which version to get, I'd highly recommend the "Special Edition".



2. Maybe I am biased because I am a huge Murs fan but this album is fantastic. The track 'Everything' is my favorite, high energy, great beat, fantastic track. 'Can it Be' is another great track. One of the best things Murs did was get 9th Wonder for a producer. Pick it up, worth more than $8.99.



3. Murs just can't go wrong. This album is incredible as ususal. Despite recording under a new label, he manages to deliver a way that only Murs can. His rhymes continue to deliver powerful messages with continuous flow. Highly recommend getting your hands on this record as soon as possible.



4. Your probably thinking, 5 stars? Yeah right, probably just a pretentious review from some biast fan...Not At All!! I honestly didn't enjoy the past couple Living Legends albums. But his earlier stuff and work with Slug in Felt were dope.
   
   I didn't know what to expect from Mur's move to Warner Bros., but was sure it couldn't be great. After considerable listening, it's hard to deny that mainstream hip hop Needs This Record!!
   
   Mur's lyrical delivery is stronger and way more focused than past efforts. He could of gone either way when he signed his first major label deal; and fortunately he kept it grounded, carrying a very positive message with not-so over the top production that one might of expected with these new producers.
   
   Let's hope some of this actually does get radio play, maybe it will enlighten the industry to what already exists but rarely heard, intelligent rap.



5. My roommate and I could not have been more excited when Murs For President arrived in the mail. The anticipation built as we tore open the packaging and put in the disk. We pressed play and...oh. This is it? This is what we have been waiting months for? The message was clear but the delivery flopped. Obviously Murs is a great lyricist but the beats were mediocre and bland. After masterpieces like L.A., Sillygirl, and Bad Man, how am I supposed to listen to a compilation with Snoop Dog. Come on Murs, you're better than this. All I can say is get out now and remember who you are. Keep it raw.

5 comments about Gorillaz.

1. At first glance, Gorillaz seems to be a novelty throwaway. After all, it IS a virtual band, comprised of cartoon characters, and the music sounds exactly like one would expect from a fusion of Damon Albarn and Dan the Automator: Brit-pop meets hip hop (Brit-hop?). So a side project? Perhaps, but with Blur virtually defunct, what else can Albarn do?
   
   Truthfully, Gorrliaz debut is better than one might expect, and isn't that far off from the musical style of Blur's last (upcoming, then) album, "Think Tank." As a result, it succeeds more often when Damon overtakes the production. "Slow Country," "Tomorrow Comes Today," and "M1 A1" particularly stand out as winning moments in the collection, not to mention the irresistible groove of instrumental, "Double Bass," and the very fun hit, "Clint Eastwood." The sensation that you're listening to a debut album is clear; it has all the tendencies of a side project, all the way to the realized freedom of exasperated brain childs discovering an outlet to channel their more off-kilter tendencies. "Demon Days" is a narrowly better album, but those looking for some alternative hip hop experiments, both Gorillaz studio LPs fit the bill.
   
   Better than the album, though, is the virtual part, including winning creations by "Tank Girl" creator, Jamie Hewlitt; the music video for "Clint Eastwood" is terrific.
   
   Best cuts: "Double Bass," "Clint Eastwood," "Tomorrow Comes Today," "M1 A1," "Slow Country," "19-2000," "Re-Hash," "Man Research (Clapper)," "New Genius (Brother)," "Rock the House"



2. While I think that Gorillaz' second album, Demon Days, is their best, I also enjoy their self-titled debut. It's definitely a different beast Demon Days, a dense, dark, swirling concoction. The production here is much looser and stripped down. And it reaches higher heights than its successor, including my two favorite Gorillaz songs: the trip-hop experiment "Clint Eastwood" and the funky, screwed-up "Rock the House", both featuring Del the Funkee Homo Sapien's memorable raps.
   The interesting thing about this album is that it's like a pop album made by someone who's just the slightest bit insane. Not in the totally lost, Syd Barrett sense, but you know, just a bit out there. See, the tunes are hummable, but there's an aura of weird about each of them. Some, such as "Rock the House" and "Tomorrow Comes Today", have weird instrumentation. Others, like "Re-Hash", "5/4" (with a refrain of "SHE TURNED MY DAD ON!" that you might find yourself singing under your breath without noticing it... until the people start staring, of course), and "19/2000", have odd lyrics. While "Rock the House", "Tomorrow Comes Today", "Re-Hash" and "5/4" are definitely highlights, I'm not a huge fan of the "album" take on "19/2000". I love the frenzied Soulchild remix, though. If you ask me, that should've been the album mix. The "album" take is all right, but doesn't convey the party atmosphere as well as the up-tempo take does.
   There are other good songs, too: the trip-hoppin' "New Genious (Brother)" (sic), the house-influenced "Sound Check (Gravity)", and the bass solo "Double Bass", as well as the eerie regional bonus track "Dracula" (with bizarre lyrics like "Santa Claus told a lie") and the off-kilter "Left Hand Suzuki Method". But after "19/2000", the album turns crap and stays there for the last four tracks. For a first, "Latin Simone (Que Pasa Cognito)" sucks. Gorillaz try to reinvent themselves as a mariachi band there. Needless to say, it doesn't work out, and it might be the worst song they ever made. "Starshine" and "Slow Country" are awful as well, and the experimental metal "M1 A1" needs to go too. I'm also not big on the "weird-for-weird's-sake" "Man Research (Clapper)", and I don't care if "Punk" is only a minute and a half long, it sucks.
   This is an interesting album, even if Gorillaz would do better on Demon Days. It's very creative, and like I said in my Demon Days review, I love how much effort Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett (the masterminds behind the project - Damon plays most the instruments, and Jamie designed the four "band members") put into fleshing out the four virtual members of Gorillaz, vocalist 2D, guitarist Noodle, bassist Murdoc, and drummer Russell. Good job!



3. Just a punk funk fist full of love. I only love half these songs though...
   
   Tomorrow comes today - alternative chillout experimental hip-hop
   Man Research - something off the sopranos
   Starshine is just a tweaker for shure.
   Slow country - alternative chillout experimental pop



4. This cartoon band is the greatist, gorillaz has 4 wonderful characters, (2D) (vocals)(keybords), (Russel) (drumer), (Murdoc) (Bass), (Noodle) (guitar) is a great CD to start out with, If you want to learn more about this wonderful band I would get the book Rise Of The Ogre.
   
   Ok lets talk about the music, the band is mostly made up of electronica, and regge, but has rap, pop, dub, and rock.
   
   1. Re-Hash - Comes complete with wonky electronica, a colourful acoustic groove and damaged guitar, with 2D and noodle singing, dubby delays, some kebording. 8/10
   
   2. 5/4 - This is one of those rocker songs, awsome guitar, which is in 5/4 timing, hense the name, hard beats, some electronic kebording. 9/10
   
   3. Tomorrow Comes Today - Rumble in the urban jungle, bass combination, keybord, cool harmonica, vary dubish, good volcals, laze drum. 10/10
   
   4. New Genious - The sound of old regge, tin pans clanging, some harmonica, violin, vary old sounding, with a tad of electronics. 8/10
   
   5. Clint Eastwood - Signature tune for gorillaz, cymbals smashing, best 2D vocals, with the help of Del raping, best harmonica yet, great piano, with some electronics. 10/10
   
   6. Man Research - Starts out with electronic insect noises, guitar ruffs, then a muffled beat, then DJ scratching, 2D's vocals, cool electronics. 8/10
   
   7. Punk - Short song, but nothing short in sounding, this is a vary punk rock, starts out with twirling electronics, with a muffled beat, then guitar riffs, hands claping, 2D throwing up, hard beats. 9/10
   
   8. Sound Check (Gravity) - World of digital dub ragge, song starts with crickets cherping, acoustic guitar, dogs barking in backround, 2D's vocals, then awsome DJ scratching, and beats, and bubbling electronics. 10/10
   
   9. Double Bass - My favorite track of the CD, this is a mentally unsteay piece of inebriated breakbeat psychedelia is a great instrumental song, this track is the sound 2D imagined, Russel got a machine that could make any thoght turn into music, you can hear every pluck of the double bass, with a simple beat, wash bord, and the best guitar riffs ever, same with the cool keybording, the song stalls with 2D saying "all of which makes me anxious, at times unbearably so", great chill song. 20/10
   
   10.Pock the House - An ok track, with a lethargic rap from Del, with trumpet, cool breakbeat, flute, and piano. 7/10
   
   11. 19-2000 - A collage of bleeps, bloops, sonds like a video game, with the help of some of Noodle's vocals, and bubbleing noises, a good song. 8/10
   
   12. Latin Simone - A vibrant, smoky Cuban track, with vocals from Ibrahim Ferrer, has a Latin style, good beat, Latin horns, an ok song.
   7/10
   
   13. starshine - Starts with cool beat, then a creeping guitar riff, bass, 2D's vocals, muffled twirling electronics, sounds like video game noises.
   9/10
   
   14. Slow Country - Starts with a beat, combined with an elelctronic breeze, awsome piano, 2D's vocals, electronic keybording. 9/10
   
   15. M1A1 - Starts with 2D saying , "helo", "helo", "Is anyone there", slowly the guitar rising, then full force rock, hard beats, riffing guitar, 2D's vocals, Murdoc yelling. 10/10
   
   16. Dracula - The hunting sound of Dracula, is great regge song, many electronics, saxaphone, and 2D's vocals, mixed so well that Dracula would love it. 9/10
   
   17. Left Hand Suzuki Method - is another one my favorite tracks, starts with a eerie sound, then a hard beat and guitar, Noodle speaking Japanise, and violin mixed with a honky-tonk piano. 10/10
   
   Over all you'll fall in love with this great band!



5. Their second album is better, but Clint Eastwood is a song no fan should be without.

5 comments about Aha Shake Heartbreak.

1. I maintain a collection of over 8,000 albums from every genre. This album is easily one of my most top 10 ten favorites of all time, and a must have. It's simple but highly effective in its purpose, it rocks. Enough said.



2. This album is awesome from the first song to the last. It is a complete work of art. These guys are super talented. Each time I listen to the album I hear something new and like it a little bit more. I have had it for over a year now and I'm still not tired of it.



3. This cd is great! Had one before, but got lost in the move or something. Came to Amazon to find it and I did for a fraction of the price. Mint condition and Excellent!



4. Ok, this being the second KOL release it has a lot to live up to. But it does so and admirably. KOL is one of the first bands in recent memory to have that "Southern sound" that is both fresh and place-centric. The first album was amazing even through its use of simple chords and straight forward arrangements. I loved it. Aha Shake Heartbreak still respects its Southern roots and rock and roll sensibility, but it is certainly more mature. Both musically and lyrically.
   As an after-the-fact-review, I must admit I also own the third album and listen to it frequently. I like it, but not as much as the first two. If you are a fan (or perhaps even if not) get it too. But this is the best. I look forward to the next release and hope KOL keeps growing and putting out some of the best current American rock-and-roll.



5. I heard about Kings of Leon in 2004 when the single "The Bucket" was released. I have to admit I wasn't a fan at first, but the song grew on me and I decided to purchase the album. Each and every song on the album, but one, is absolutely terrific and demands repeat listens.
   
   From the get go on "Slow Night, So Long" the musical creativity just flows from the speakers. The lyrics are not overly inspriring but still memorable enough to sing along with. The better songs on the album would have to be "Taper Jean Girl", "The Bucket" & "Pistol of Fire".
   
   The reasoning that this album does not warrant the five star rating is due to one horrible song. The fifth track, "Milk" is absolutely treacherous. Absent is any real substance other than the occasional gallup drum and bass line that is rather subpar compared to the rest of the work. The vocal arrangement on the track is strained and is just plain wretched.
   
   Other than one mishap on the recording, this is an album that many people will purchase and listen to hundreds, if not, thousands of times. The constant complaining about not being able to add it to an iPOD is absolute rubbish, as well. Anyone with a half-way decent opperating system and understands how to use it will have absolutely no problem adding. Purchase the album and add 11 of the best songs you'll ever listen to your iPOD today, you won't be disappointed.

5 comments about Dig!!! Lazarus Dig!!!.

1. just got home from his show at the 930 club....when an artist's new songs are as good as his classics live you know you are onto something...best album of 2008 so far...



2. I am embarrassed to say that I have just barely discovered Nick Cave! I had heard of him before but never really listened to him. My husband bought this album and had been playing it in the background and like most of my husbands music I tried to ignore it. But luckily I could not! My favorite song is Moonland. Nick Cave has this sort of sultry sexy voice (which so totally does not go with image) and I love title track. Midnight man is also great. This album is funny, witty, and smart. I can't believe my husband and both like it! marital bliss when it comes to music finally!
   
   to top if off we got to see Nick Cave in SF this past weekend and he was awesome! he played lots of songs off this album and they were just as good live. the band performed amazing live with funky instruments and Nick played the audience so well. Truly a great album and a great band. I can't wait to listen to more of their stuff.



3. This is CD is much better than I expected and an absolute surprise to me. I am big Nick Cave fan and loved his ballad CD's (Boatman's Call / No more shall we part / Nocturama) and the Pop inbetween (Abottoir Blues). I was a little afraid that after Grinderman he would try to get back to his roots of The Birthday Party trying to get the punk back. But no. Instead the CD is very much like "The Good son" and contains great ballads, fun songs and pretty much of everything. Very catchy and I can't stop listening. Only four stars because of 1-2 fillers.
   
   Great CD!



4. This is the first CD by Nick Cave that I own. Before this, I'd heard (and liked) the odd song of his, usually on some soundtrack or compilation; "There is a light" from the "Batman forever" soundtrack, The songs he did on the "Leonard Cohen: I'm your man" album, "People ain't no good" from "Shrek 2" (which coincidentally I saw last night again on DVD) and the dark but brilliant ballad "Where the wild roses grow" with fellow Antipodean Kylie Minogue.
   
   "Dig!!! Lazarus Dig!!!" is a rock album steeped in biblical imagery, and reminding me in parts of Bruce Springsteen (vocally) or Robbie Robertson (his dramatic narrative style). The title track is a chugging rocking narrative about Lazarus set in modern day New York.
   
   The midtempo groovy "Moonland" is a killer song. Other standouts are the eerie effect laden "Hold on to yourself" (with nice twanging guitars), the bouncy and extremely catchy "Lie down here (and be my girl)", the brooding ballad "Jesus of the moon" (brilliant!), the lilting and shimmery "Midnight man", and closing , the midtempo verbose "More news from nowhere" (which wouldn't sound out of place on a CD by the Boss).
   
   It did take me a few listens to really get into it, but it's turned out to be one of my favourite albums so far this year...



5. To say Nick Cave isn't the force he once was, is like saying Vlad the Impaler had minor anger management issues. Glories LONG gone, he's resorting to loose balladeering and conventional rock in a vain and desperate attempt to disguise the fact he's got nothing new to say and should've given up on this music thing a long time ago.
   A new Nick Cave album is cause for despair, where once it was cause for celebration. Ok, you can't go on re-living past triumphs (ask Morrissey) but the guy must have SOME of that early threat and purpose kicking around somewhere. Where's the gusto and urgency that drove classics like 'Nick the Stripper' or 'Mr Clarinet' ?
   He's become a rock dullard, a pale imitation, a caricature of all he once meant.
   He's got a hopeless band together. The keyboard player looks like Bob the Murderer off 'Twin Peaks' and the rest of them try ham-fistedly to be eccentric, playing at being rock misfits in a Beefheartian sense, but the sad drone of long departed inspiration means the sound is a resounding mis-fire.
   Like a once-proud wild animal that's become old, and needing to be put out of it's misery, Cave is a sorry sight. He tries vainly; 'Jesus of the Moon' is appalling, melody-less and uninspired. 'Midnight Man' is unco-ordinated pseudo HM dreck, in dire need of some serious oomph and pazzaz. Each song is asleep on it's feet, and finally, laboriously, drag 'Dig!! Lazarus Dig!!' sorrowfully along to it's spiritless, uninteresting conclusion.
   The spark's gone. It went a long time ago, and what we're left with is lazy MOR for the less discerning 'alternative' masses. Cave always seemed close to breaking point, never far from the loony-bin, and his music reeked of that creative morbid intensity. But he doesn't need his straight-jacket any more. He's a summer season, woolly jumper and fabric softener man now.
   I bet he even does requests....

5 comments about Shogun.

1. I got into Trivium shortly after their acsendancy album hit through a friend and i havnt looked back since. I've observed their evolution from Ember to Inferno all the way up to their now newly released album Shogun and they are in my honest opinion exactly where they need to be. This album has all your thrash metal needs from the machine gun guitar riffs to your entricate solos. And some of the songs even have a few catchy hooks. The biggest thing for me though is that Matt has finally found a happy medium between his screams and his singing, and that i think is the most important aspect of this album. If Trivium keeps putting out more albums like this one then they have a long long road of success ahead of them.



2. First of all, this album should NOT be compared to The Crusade in such ways as saying its a step up or step down from it. Its really a hybrid album. Too many people are basing their opinions of Shogun by saying that its too intense compared to The Crusade and they miss the melody and singing on that album. Then still others are saying that The Crusade was a mistake of Trivium's and this is a return to original form that Ascendancy introduced us to. I say both sides are wrong. This album is Ascendancy and The Crusade all in one, but even more in your face. As I said, hybrid album.
   
   With Shogun, Trivium has mixed the melodic singing, lightning fast guitar work, and blistering drumming of The Crusade with the screaming, up in your business, heavy metal of Ascendancy. The combination is undeniably brutal. You get the best of both. Fans of The Crusade, which I admit I loved, will easily cling to the parts of songs where Matt Heafy is melodically chanting over speedy drum work and machine gun guitar riffs, but then its over as fast as it started and the vocals turn up a notch and the music becomes chunky and heavy while Heafy takes on a demonic scream.
   
   Highlights of the album:
   -- The guitar solos are insane! Fast, original, and ear piercing.
   -- The drumming is top-notch. Travis Smith is easily my favorite metal drummer right now. BLAZING fast double bass work, and masterfully built drum fills, he's really coming into his own. Catch him on his way up!
   -- Long intricate songs. Most songs clock in at over 5 minutes, several are just shy of 5 minutes by mere seconds. The title track itself is nearly 12 mins long.
   -- The production is excellent. Amazing clarity. If you have a good set of headphones, listen with those. Smith's tom fills seems to wrap around your head and the solo's seem to start on one side of your head and travel through your skull sonically bouncing around inside until connecting with the other ear. Its wicked.
   
   As a side note, even if you don't like the album, you've got to at least admit the cover art is awesome.
   
   SHOGUN HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE:
   1) If you're into speedy licks, its here.
   2) If you're into in your face screaming, you're gonna get it.
   3) If you loved the melody of The Crusade but wished the intensity had been turned up a few notches, Shogun won't disappoint.
   4) If you're a guitar solo junky, welcome home, this album delivers.
   
   Pick this album up, its hella cool.



3. Trivium is back to what made me like them in the first place. This is a step in the right direction. Yes there still is that Hetfield voice but I can deal with it now that his real clean voices and the RETURN of the screaming and growling are present. Musically this is a sound album. The Crusade on the other hand was a slap in the face to their fans in my opinion. Oh how I dislike that album. Metalcore fans will rejoice with the return of the REAL Trivium.



4. Ascendancy, and The Crusade were good, well-written albums in my opinion. Matt Heafy has the kind talent that either makes you hate him, or fills you with the desire to get better. The previous two albums culminate on Shogun. Shogun sounds like neither of their previous albums but rather fuses them along with some new sounds. If you like metal even slightly you will appreciate Shogun and the musicianship Trivium brings to the table!



5. This was always going to be a tough task for Trivium. How to match the earlier success, but still not sound like a complete sellout. I think this album succeeds admirably well. First let me say that this is NOT an overtly commercial record. Sure there are melodies both sung and played, but this doesn't mean it is cheesy or weak. Trivium have been combining rough and clean vocals for a while, and this album shows that potential being achieved. Same with heavy riffing interposed with beautiful melodies. The clean voices and choruses sound much less like Hetfield. The growling is deeper and more "death" style. I have always enjoyed their guitars, and again, you won't be disappointed. Tons of riffs and solos. Also, there is a bit more depth to the songs, both in scope and in musicality. Get this album if you like newer metal with a major classic metal influence, lots of solos, and thundering riffs and powerful drumming / bass. It will not disappoint. There is nothing really bad about it. Good for them!!