5 comments about The Quilt.

1. Gym Class Heroes serves up another addictive album with a major supporting cast of producers, and guest stars as diverse as Estelle, Daryl Hall and Busta Rhymes, to name just three.
   
   If you liked "Cupid's Chokehold" from their last album, you'll also like the single "Peace Sign/Index Down" [try it yourself] with Busta Rhymes, which has a chorus that may get you fired if you perform it at work in front of the wrong audience. [Note to self: listen with ear buds at work, but DON'T sing along if you can be overheard] Other than the PA lyrics, there are also funky, trippy lines such as "But now I'm sittin' lovely off in Wonderland with Alice / With purple people passin' me at the catapillar's chalice", and I think I've grown rather fond of this track.
   
   The other single released is "Cookie Jar", featuring The-Dream, which is a funny song about a compulsive cheater. Another good track is "DRNK TXT Rmeo" which is about people who would rather send a text message than have an actual conversation - "I usually avoid any kind of confrontation, conversation, moderation / Lips sealed but my fingers are flying"
   
   Other tracks for your consideration are "Like Father, Like Son (Papa's Song)", which samples "Papa Was a Rolling Stone"; the reggae-beat "Blinded By the Sun"; "Live a Little"; "Live Forever (Fly With Me)", an R&B track with Daryl Hall; and "No Place to Run", which sounds a little like BritPop.
   
   This is a solid fourth album, and well worth a place in your collection, but remember the PA lyrics and listen responsibly.
   
   
   
   Amanda Richards, October 9, 2008



2. The Quilt, as a whole, is probably better than 95% of the pop-rap/hip hop played on the radio today, it has deep lyrics (in some songs) and some decent beats. That being said, this is not at all what I expected from Travis. Papercut Chronicles was a real, raw, powerful album full of unpolished art... that's what made it so beautiful! When ACASC came out I think that everyone was a little bit worried that GCH may have sold out a bit, the album didn't have as many powerful songs as Papercut Chronicles, but still sounded decent. The Quilt, however, is a true sign of artistic departure. Every single song is overproduced and the lyrics are shallow and bland. Cookie Jar? DRNK TXT Rmeo? Are you kidding me? Is this the same Travis that said "F*** mass appeal, art is art?"



3. Gym Class Heroes were coming off new found fame with their newest project titled 'The Quilt'. This album is NOTHING I mean NOTHING like anything you may have heard from them. Their first album was a very dark and gloomy album that caught many of their early fans by surprise and 'As Cruel As School Children' showed a very hungry and lively band...but 'Quilt' needs patchwork.
   
   Lead Singer Travis McCoy went through many problems in the making of the album which included his addiction to drugs and family loses...which therfore makes the album 'Quilt'. A family theme can be felt with many shout outs to family and like the chorus of Peace Sign "F.U. this is for MY people" So here is the breakdown
   
   Guilty As Charged (formally called Tell Hip-Hop)- This track is very lively, Estelle does a nice job holding the chorus...this was supposed to be a rap to hip/hop but...you can listen to this song and cannot see what this song has to do about hip hop. The chorus really saves the song.
   6.5/10
   
   Drunk TxT Romeo- Is a very cheap version of their MakeOut Club back in the Papercut Chronicle Days and has a very generic sound even with the original concept. He talks about his desire for women and how they are his 'obsession' towards them. It has the poppy feeling and may appeal to some audience but not the die-hard GCH fan.
   5.5/10
   
   Peace Sign- Again, this song shows off the band's originality with the chorus to make the middle finger towards the industry. He says that the poppy jingles are a thing of the past and are to leave yet makes many attempts to try to make them throughout the album. Busta Rhymes goes crazy on the Cool&Dre beat and does his usual thing as appearence. The third verse kinda makes you wish Busta was back on the mic, Travie somewhat bores you with the usual.
   8/10
   
   Like Father Like Son- Shows off the 'family theme' this album has. Travis talks about the life of his father and his life growing up with him. This song has a great piano roll and clap to make a very soothing sound. Travis pays appreciation towards his father for his hard work and the chorus explains how Travis always wanted to be in the cover of the Rolling Stone and always had his father to help him. He later goes on saying how he looked up to his father....sweet song...think of a Kanye's "Hey Mama"...a manlier version.
   7/10
   
   Blinded By The Sun- This song is a switch to the alternative rock road but by this point you are a bit 'Blinded' by Travis' repition of woman and uses the sun as metaphor for the truth to the number of lies woman have told him. It has a relaxing chorus and beat but the caution to this record is...theres just nothing special...this is a track you'd likely skip.
   6/10
   
   Catch Me If You Can- Before the album Travis had said this album would prove his lyrical ability...well this song sure does. The begining of the song shows how his lyrical creativity is up to par but the problem with this track is the bear is just strange. The beat kinda ruins the song...and the song might have been better off as an acappela. But never the less, his lyricism, when attempted, can be one that is uncontested...one of the best songs on the record.
   7/10
   
   Cookie Jar- Honestly, this is actually so freaking catchy...it's hard to not like it. The Dream is on a tear with his appearences and leaves a great chorus and Travie AGAIN talks about women...but this time uses a cookie as his metaphor. Catchy chorus but you kinda get the repition thing going on right now.
   7/10
   
   Live A Little- This sounds something off of Disney...I swear. This is just a teenage rock band thing going on. It is pretty catchy but this is something you could see the Jonas Brothers doing and that kinda scares off any avid GCH fan.
   6/10
   
   Dont Tell Me Its Over- The best song on the album, Travis lets off on the haters he's made since hitting stardom. He attacks those that criticize his success and does a good job doing it. Dre is on the hook from Cool&Dre and gives a real nice feeling that makes you want to press repeat. Travis mocks the fans that criticize him and gives it to his haters....If you want to see his lyrical ability...go straight to track 9.
   
   "Dont be mad cause you flirted with a chick that had my tongue in her
   esophagus"
   
   8.5/10
   
   Live Forever- Is obviously one of the most powerful songs GCH has ever made. This song deals with the death of Travis' cousin and the beautiful melody keeps the listener in awe. The Plane ride symbolizes the road to death and the window is like the last views of life while going to the 'last resort'. Haryl Oats does an amazing production and chorus job and this song is one that will inspire and if you are a BIG fan of the last two CD's...this song will be one of your favorites.
   9.5/10
   
   Kissing Ears- Another metaphor that Travis claims is his love for music but you cant help but think this is another poppy single with more and more about women...this really takes away from the last song...You go from soo very inspired and perplexed to...Kissin Ears??
   6/10
   
   Home- Is a GCH version of a homecoming party. This was used on Madden 09 i believe and is a hype song, very well written and something you would expect and like t hear from GCH. The guitar's from Cool&Dre give the song another hit. This gives more of Travis' lyrical contortion and does a well job of showing hip/hop that he's still got it...for this song at least.
   7/10
   
   No Place To Run- Is a very original band production which wasn't seen a lot in this album. This is another of the various songs that has singing in the begining...and this did not occur in the previous albums. More singing on how a couple can go and run away and how nothing can stop them. Its a nice cheery song and is reminiscent to something Yellowcard would make.
   6.5/10
   
   Coming Clean- Wow, well the original song leaked last year with just guitars so hearing this awful remake kind of sums up the album. Even with the time they had to record the album, it didn't show up in the music. Its about a girl...again...but according to Travis this may be his love for music...again. I liked the original but to use it as an outro just hurts a strong GCH fan. You feel so very disappointed....
   5/10
   
   This album had gems but are overlooked with the dirt poured on it. I cant honestly think the group can feel satisfied with the project...but this just may be it for the group. Most members have other endeavors going on...and Travis may just as well go solo and try out the rapper thing for a while.
   
   Overall: 2.5/5



4. Along with many other Gym Class Heroes fans, I had been waiting for this album to drop for quite a while now. I have played out their first few LP's more times than I can count on my IPOD. After listening to "The Quilt" a few times all the way through, I am extremely disappointed with almost every track. I tried to give it a fair shot and thought it might grow on me, but no such luck...
   
   Their first few CD's had fresh beats, creative lyrics & didn't fall into that 1 or 2 hit category. On this album, Cookie Jar is a hot track but it gets played out quick and I would say the only redeeming song on the entire LP is Peace Sign / Index with Bustah Rhymes.
   
   Too many ballads, TRL sounding top 25 tracks, etc... Just a huge let down after the first few albums.



5. Gym Class Heroes have done it again! Front man Travis McCoy spits rhymes like baseball players spit gum. Fresh off spending the summer on The Vans Warped Tour, "The Quilt" is their latest release. It's appropriately titled "The Quilt" because it is indeed a coming together of a million little pieces. With tracks like "Peace Sign/Index Down" featuring Busta Rhymes, it's hard to imagine that this was the same band who put out "As Cruel as School Children" a little while ago.
   
   There are however, several tracks which can be reminiscent of "As Cruel as School Children". "Blinded By The Sun" features Fall Out Boy frontman Patrick Stump and is definitely going to be a fan favorite for those who loved "Cupid's Chokehold" and "Clothes Off!"
   
   It's also nice to see Gym Class Heroes branch out into a little more hip hop as well. With guests such as The Dream, Dr. Dre, and Little Wayne, it's definitely going to be a hit with the hip hop crowd as well.
   
   My favorite tracks are "Live a Little", "Kissin' Ears", and "DRNK TXT Rmeo".

5 comments about 15.

1. This CD only has a few good songs, but they are still a kickazz band.



2. I myself did not like this album. There are two good songs on the CD and that's all.



3. I bought this CD after seeing Buckcherry at Cruefest. Everyone song on this CD is really good. I have had it in my CD player ever since I bought it. I really recommend this to any rock fan.



4. I purchased the explicit version of this cd...I can handle it but I have to be careful to not let the grandkids get ahold of it. It's a really a great cd and I love rockin to it turned all the way up!!



5. These boys rock!!! If you like it loud and raunchy, this is the album!

5 comments about One Day As A Lion.

1. I was a teenager when Rage first came on the scene and blew me and my friends away. We loved the militant Public-Enemy political message, the impressive delivery and flow of Zack, and the funky/metal guitar of Tom. They were a band built for teenage boys to love and idolize.
   
   Rage was one of my favorite bands and their old albums still sound VERY good today. So I came into One Day As A Lion hoping for something great.
   And overall it is pretty good, but it's definitely not great. Zack still sounds good on the mic. But it can't touch the old Rage albums. I got the feeling I was listening to some sort of Junior-Varsity-Rage.
   
   As mentioned in other reviews, the 5 songs on this EP kind of all sound the same, two of them especially, which is not good creativity-wise. Plus, I thought the choruses/hooks were not as strong, powerful or memorable as his other previous work.
   
   It's taken Zack nearly TEN years(!) to put something out and this is what we get? So yes, I'm a bit disappointed. Will I still be listening to this One Day As A Lion EP 15 years from now like I do with the Rage albums? Probably not.



2. OK, the first track is pretty cool but the others just don't make the cut. It has a touch of the Beastie Boys to it but is more like the Renegades album then any original RATM material. It's kind of sad, really. I was such a huge RATM fan and wish Zack could have more success (although I was pissed that the he left the band right before they were supposed to play in my town...)
   
   Anyway, ODAL is kind of weak material. If it was anyone other than Zack de la Rocha, I don't think it would be getting nearly as many 4 and 5-star ratings.
   
   Not recommended.



3. de la Rocha is as lyrically and vocally intense as ever, but the music of One Day is somewhat subpar, especially in comparison to Morello and crew from Rage. Some of the songs sound almost identical, two of the songs differentiate in only a(very)slight variation in strum pattern. The lyrics are interesting and hard hitting, though, and some of the songs pick up a nice groove. Overall,it's an album worth picking up if you like de la Rocha.



4. This CD is a collaboration from Zach De La Rocha (of Rage Against the Machine fame)and some indie guys...sounds like RATM as a garage band...minus Tom Morello's innovative guitar playing...slashing chords and tubby drums...with Zach ranting as usual in the forefront...I would much rather hear the stuff that Trent Reznor produced for Zach...this is just him sleepwalking through some more angry indie stuff...



5. One Day As a Lion (2008, Anti) One Day As a Lion's first studio EP. ****
   
   For a long time there was talk of Zack de la Rocha releasing solo material (apparently material he had been working on even before Rage Against the Machine split), and even more talk when he worked with Trent Reznor. But now we get some sort of taste of what de la Rocha is like on his own, but he equally shares the stage with Jon Theodore, former Mars Volta drummer. As expected, One Day As a Lion is explosive, with de la Rocha spitting hateful messages at the powers-that-be while taking a minimalist effect. The idea is fantastic; Theodore's drumming is superb, playing a central role in not only developing an effective beat, but also being fairly responsible for filling the sound, as de la Rocha's vocals and keyboards are either sparse or start-and-stop. Sure, it sounds like lost Rage material, but it's fairly intimate for what it is, and what it is is righteous. A full-length LP would be outstanding. On it, boys! (Wild International)

5 comments about Black Sun.

1. Or so you would think.
   
   My introduction to Ra came about when I went into a local FYE with a handful of cash and a cd player with an appetite. I came across the hard copy of 'From One', and was so impressed by the album cover I bought it on a whim. Why shouldn't I have, with thirteen dollars to lose, and a timeless classic to gain, what choice could I have made.
   
   I played From One to the point the bottom half of the album nearly turned black. Songs such as 'Only', 'Sky', 'Rectifier', 'High Sensitivity' and 'On My Side' had such multilayered elements of talent embedded into every second of music it was almost impossible not to succomb to an obsessive affair with it. The production, and sound quality on that album was fantastic (for it's time), and you were presented with a group with unlimited potential, and the presence of mind to capitalize on that potential.
   
   In between the releases of 'From One' and their 2005 sophmore album 'Duality', I had begun my personal music career as a hip hop artist, which required a great deal of dedication to the genre. I had not even been aware of Ra releasing 'Duality' until I breezed by it in the same FYE I had aquired 'From One' in. I purchased it without even a first thought. I will be the first one to admit that nine times out of ten, I prefer 'Duality' to 'From One'.. the elegant, moody compositions coupled with the aggressive skull crushers that completely validated the concept of the album were too superb to deny. From the moment the cinematic intro exploded into 'Fallen Angels' all the way until the conclusion of the album it was obvious that these guys had no direction left other than upwards.
   
   Or so it seemed.
   
   The interim between 'Duality' and 'Black Sun' have been well-documented, and I will not waste your time by having you read about it, when you could just as easily enjoy the 'From One'-esque gem 'Waste Of Space'.
   
   The title of 'Black Sun' is truely befitting of this album. This is a very dark album, to put it as simply as possible. 'Broken Hearted Soul' being by far the most tame track on the album in terms of thought provocation, makes for one of the most fun listens. Yet it is in the song that we encounter the most critical failure of 'Black Sun'. Just about every song on this album is excellent. However, while listening it feels as though these songs are just one notch below the level of execution that they were built to me. Perhaps the previous two albums have heightened our expectations.
   
   'Lost Along The Way', "Waste of Space', and the pleasant 'I Believe Again', round out the superb midsection of this album, leading us into the formidable, yet subdued tail end. It is in the first act this album truely shines.
   
   'The First Step' is classic 'From One' era instrumentation and cinematic sound, yet updated with newfound sound quality. The inclusion of the popular B-Side 'Don't Turn Away' is definitely a big plus, considering it would've gone down as the best Ra song to never see a studio release had it not been on, and the updated version of it only ices the cake.
   
   The highlight of this album comes in the supercharged 'Faulty Information', which may quite possibly be the best song Ra has released to date. So potent is this song that it almost weighs the album down simply because the other songs just aren't quite on it's level. While it may frustrate some to know that there is a clear divide between the "best", and "worst" songs on the album, it should serve as a reminder that Ra always leapfrog over their previous albums, each time they release a new one. I just think that this time they just came up a little short, but that does not mean that they shouldn't be carried upon their own shoulders. This is a fantastic album, and is more than enough to satisfy fans until their next release.
   
   4 out of 5 stars.



2. For a heavy rock band like Ra, it hasn't been easy. Having gone through two record labels, they've gone the independent way for their third studio release Black Sun. Without abandoning the Duality sound while also incorporating what made From One a fan favorite, this is easily their best record next to their first. What shocks me is that I haven't heard these guys on the radio since '02, and while they're not a total radio band, you'd think this would be played relentlessly like Seether or Breaking Benjamin, who my opinion are lesser bands compared to Ra. So whether you haven't heard these guys before or you've been a fan, do check these guys out.



3. I have followed these guys for years now. For the life of me I don't understand how these guys are not know by everyone. This is an intense piece of work. I am not a fan of the "Raw" cd but this is in the same league as "From One" and "Duality". Ra are real musician and artist. That is a rare thing in music today with all the manufactured bands on the radio. This may be the most emotional release for them yet. They are trying to survive in the music world on their own terms and that is a challenge to say the least. Self produced, self promoted, and self managed is an impressive thing. The music is smooth and thoughtful. I wish the world would finally discover these guys. Radio has ignored them.
   
   If you want something that is different and crosses many styles of music check this out. Its worth buying



4. This is Ra's 3rd album, and it's far and away my favorite. The band left their previous label "Cement Shoes Records" after years of abuse to join a label created by the band's lead singer, Sahaj. Under the new label, "Sahaja Music Records," the band is able to create music just the way they want to. With that in mind it's clear that the band is headed in the right direction with Black Sun. Without the pressures of a label the band has written beautiful music that touches on all genres of rock and comes out triumphant. Black Sun's beautiful, experimental, yet mainstream rock defies all of the common rules of public appeal and still manages a sound that anyone will fall in love with, after the first song.
   
   If you haven't listened to Ra yet, now is the perfect time. Through the Sahaja Music Records label the album is available at a bargain price. Most major labels sell their albums for $16-20, but Black Sun can be found new for $9-12. Stop considering this album and start buying. You won't be disappointed!



5. After three years Ra returns with a new album of mostly new material. The song 'Don't Turn Away' was released on their live Ep and the song 'Broken Hearted Soul' was released early on I Tunes. So, maybe it's only nine songs if you want to think like that. Anyway, another solid effort from this band. Would I call it groundbreaking as touted on their My Space page. Probably not, but it's just a good rockin' album. Stand out tracks are 'Broken Hearted Soul', 'Lost Along the Way', 'Don't Turn Away', 'A Poet's Dream' and 'Easier Than This'. As other bands in this genre I feel Ra delivers more on their more melodic songs and those are the one's that I usually listen to more and have in my playlist. Overall, a good listen.
   
   From what I gather there is also problems with the download from I Tunes, Rhapsody, and Amazon. I usually get my downloads for my Ipod from mp3search.ru and at a way better price. This album I downloaded for the price of $1.88. Can't go wrong for that.

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 In Time: The Best of R.E.M. 1988-2003.

1. My husband has learned Everybody Hurts on the piano and will be singing it to me soon, Love the song and artist REM!



2. A nice adventure through the years with REM. There is more to Stipe's lyrics than meets the ear. Take a listen.



3. I ordered this item and received it in less than 48hours. The item arrived exactly as described and, as the CD was a gift for someone else, this was the most important aspect of the sale for me. I would definitely buy from this seller again in the future.



4. I am not a die-hard R.E.M. fan so half of the music on this disc was new to me.
   
   I have to say this is a good CD; very enjoyable. All the big hits are here.
   
   Tracks that were new to me were "The Great Beyond", "Bad Day", "All the way to Reno", "E-Bow the Letter", "Imitations of Life", "Animal", "Electrolite", "All the Right Friends" and "At my Most Beautiful". They are all good tracks.
   I like this band more after listen to this CD and I recommend it.
   
   Their new CD "Accelerate" is really good too.



5. {luv it, luv it, luv it }The most favorite of all the REM I could ask for in one set. Finally ive "got my spine" now Wheres my Orange Crush?? Oh well I still have my best of REM 1988-2003. and just in time thanks to Pepsi points and the great service and speed of Amazon Ill be rockin' till the sun comes up

5 comments about The Future Is Unwritten.

1. This is a very good documentary; lots of great footage. It really seems like a fresh retrospective. Some of the other stuff that's come out between 'Westway' and this, seems to have less to offer than 'This is video Clash', the late '80's quickie compilation. GREAT STUFF, from the beginning to the final incarnation of the band (i think the last album was a little better than the reviews, but not as good as what Husker Du was generating at that time). WHAT A BAND! I think Mick Jones had the right idea musically, during the Combat Rock period. Too bad we couldn't see a continuation of that.



2. The structure of this doc gives the illusion of being casual and free flowing, but it's a clever structural ride taking us thru Joe Strummer's emotional journey as a struggling artist, cultural hero and disappeared recluse. While it is sort of organized around a 'wake-like' celebration (a sort of street assembly featuring sing-along hootnany clips and open fire-barrels) it's really about Joe's motivations and response to how his political committment is slowly co-opted by the system that he tried to subvert. Temple's directorial effort here - which utlizes lots of stock footage, present-day recollections and Strummer's radio show (as voice overs) is really good. I think it took the production team numerous hours to piece it all together and in the end it explains a lot about Strummer's relationship to music and society. Recommended and a superb rockumentary.



3. It's a rockin' world make no mistake about it. These are the words of one Joe Strummer. But in my opinion and as this doc will attest the world is a not as rockin' as it was when Mr. Strummer was still with us. The story of the man, his bands and his influence on the world regardless of whether or not they could understand him. As pointed out in the DVD by one fan, "you guys are great but I can't understand the words." Joe replys simply. " That's ashame because the words are really great."



4. A must for any Clash fan, or anyone interested in the history of British punk.
   A little maudlin at times, and a bit sedate as well, but overall a worthy addition to your punk/ rock library.



5. I loved this documentary, it really told the full story of a creative spirit that got his message out and carried on long after the areanas were empty and the pint glasses were washed. Joe Strummer was a unique singer songwritter who embraced the political and social turmoil of the late seventies and put them to a musical score that is as vibrant today in its message as it was then.
   By telling the mans story through the thoughts and feelings of his friends and aquaintences you truely can understand the mesure of this man and his music, we were lucky to have him on this planet and we miss him dearly this film helps to explain why.

5 comments about Graduation.

1. Having the benefit of 4 songs being released as singles before I purchased the album, I knew this was a good purchase. As with Late Registration, a couple of songs on the album that have failed to grow on me but enough out of the others to recommend



2. After experiencing disappointment with Kanye's previous effort of Late Registration, I had little to no expectations for this album. Of course, The College Dropout was an instant classic when released, but this album tops it. While Late Registration was spotty with the great and the outright bad, this album is a gem from start to finish. It's one of the few albums I can play all the way through without wanting to skip songs. The standouts (five out of five stars) of the album are "Good Morning", "Stronger", "Good Life", "Can't Tell Me Nothing" and "Flashing Lights". The rest are no less than four to four and a half stars. I think Kanye has finally found his style and groove and I can't wait for his next album.
   
   If you enjoy hip hop, rap, Kanye, you probably already own this album. If not, get it!



3. I went to see him at the Glow N the Dark Tour in houston.... there is something about him that is so touching... he is a true performer. I think he is at the top of the game... hes brilliant. GRADUATION is a mind-blowing album with excellent samplez...
   
   my favourite track hands down is "Flashing Lights" ft. Dwele. the beat is just OUTSTANDING... the video helped it become a INSTANT CLASSIC...
   
   other joints on this album that i love...
   "Homecoming"
   "Champion"
   "Barry Bonds"
   "Good Morning"
   "Cant Tell Me Nothing"
   "I Wonder"
   
   the whole album is amazing to me... he is alwayz going to b over the top and im not going to hate.... I just wish ppl would just give him the respect that he deserves...
   
   4.5 out of 5 stars



4. Well the question of whether this album was going to be better than Curtis was answered a long time ago, so I think enough time has passed to look back on it and assess it as it is; Kanye West's third studio album. To start off, the artwork is one of the best I've ever seen on a hip hop album, and it'll catch your eye every time. As far as the music goes, I think it could have been much better had the original version of "Homecoming" been used. I still don't quite understand Chris Martin singing the chorus of a love song about Chicago, but who am I to question the marketing machine that is Mr. West. I think "Home" with John Legend is a far better song and was disappointed not to see it here. And speaking of that, where is "Bittersweet" with John Mayer??? Some of Kanye's best lyrics ever and in my opinion a far better song than "Big Brother" which should have been a b-side or a bonus track somewhere, as I believe "Bittersweet" became. Other than that, you know most of these songs already b/c he's released about 5 or 6 singles from this record. If you like those pick it up, if you're just starting out I'd suggest starting with College Dropout and than Late Registration (my personal favorite West album). 3 1/2 stars.



5. Kanye West - Graduation (Roc-A-Fella, 2007)
   
   It's no secret: critics love Kanye West. The media loves Kanye West. Whatever wrongs he do in public are forgiven by them and each of his albums end up on some annual "Best of" list. Everybody else, however, has their own criticisms: he can't rap, he gives his best beats away, he's too cocky, etc. Well, this album, Graduation, probably won't change the naysayers' opinions but it is another well-rounded effort from Mr. West.
   
   What you may notice is that this album is more condensed than his other albums (read: no stupid skits). It gives the listener more time to listen to 'Ye's lyrics. And he doesn't disappoint, especially on "Can't Tell Me Nothing", where he sums up the argument about how hip hop ain't how it used to be: "Old folks talkin' 'bout 'Back in my day'/But homey this is MY day". In other words, quit living in the past. Other great songs come in the forms of "Good Life" (any artist + T-Pain = instant hit), "Everything I Am", the funny "Drunk and Hot Girls" and the revealing "Big Brother" about Kanye's previous jealousy of Jay-Z.
   
   Unfortunately, Kanye still has a way of trying to introduce old material to the masses, thinking that we never heard a certain rap before. One of The College Dropout Proper Advance's tunes, "Home", which used a girl as a metaphor for the city of Chicago, shows up on here called "Homecoming" and does an injustice to the original. And I'm not gonna lie, The College Dropout will always be Kanye's best album to me. Still, if you haven't yet, attend Kanye's Graduation because it's a special event. -EJR

5 comments about Mescalito.

1. I've lived in Texas and Louisiana and worked the off shore oil scene back in the day. Fabulous new Texas roadhouse music. Real lyrics, great rhythm...where's this band been hiding? Give me a big old Coonass smile.



2. What a great CD! Can't wait for the next CD by this very talented artist! Highly recommend.



3. I love this album. He has a bit of old-school grit that adds depth to his fresh music. Highly recommended!



4. I finally just got around to putting this on and it is amazing! Ryan rules. Just buy this album. He is a fantastic writer and the band is super tight all throughout! What a delight!!!!



5. This is a great album, and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a bit of new, young, non-trad country music.

5 comments about The Best of (Special Edition 2CD).

1. I am frequently a late comer to what is hip and cool. I had listened to Radiohead early on (Kid A, the Bends, Pablo Honey) but just didn't get it. In a twisted way I returned to Radiohead after my new found appreciation of groups like Coldplay, Muse, Keane, and the like. This Best of CD may not be all their best music but it is extensive and awesome. I couldn't stop listening to disc one with many of the familiar tunes but eventually found may way into disc two which is just as excellent in its own right. Songs like Let Down and Planet Telex really hold their own, even if they may not be their better known material.
   
   Listening to Radiohead is a unique experience, and the critics were right about this group early on. I remember hearing an interview with Tony Banks from Genesis (one of my musical heroes), and he was asked who he liked in the modern musical scene. His first reply was Radiohead. I tucked that away in the recesses of my cerebrum until I finally "got it" about Radiohead. I can best describe them as a mixture of U2 and Beck. There is clearly the musical talent and the VOICE of Bellamy but there is also a distinctive push into a new style/genre of rock music that sets Radiohead apart.
   
   If you haven't quite gotten into Radiohead, I highly recommend this collection. It has opened my ears to a group that has changed the direction of much of what we here today.



2. Excuse me my hereticism of view , but after listening to this 2 cds back to back for 2 days on good cosmic mind organic self i could be convince that this is the reencarnation of Pink Floyd . The overall music mind set is just that , incredible music for our times , from early Chicago , to King Crimson ( horns and all ) , with some Young Marble Giants in the way , the Smiths and the Buzzcocks ... Anyway , buy it , steal it , borrow it , estimulate yourself with good soul cosmic music ... Inmerse in the times we live , insane and tragic and lovely fearful and who could really care for me if not myself ...



3. Don't buy this, buy the individual albums instead, or better yet, actually support the band by going and seeing them in concert.
   They didn't put this together and it doesn't sound like anyone with even the slightest bit of an ear for flow did either as it sounds choppy to listen to the songs in this order.
   No money from this compilation goes to the band, it just goes into the wallets of EMI executives.
   Support the band, f*ck EMI!



4. GREAT CD! EXCELLENT COMPILATION OF HITS YOU CAN JUST POP IN THE CD AND LET IT PLAY ALL THE WAY THROUGH!



5. Radiohead's album "The Bends" and "OK Computer" are among my all-time favourite albums, and as I have never actually owned any of the albums personally, I thought this two CDs compilation could be a good way to get to appreciate some of the later tracks more. When "Kid A" was released in 2000 was very disappointed, and more or less lost interest in the band. I still don't understand how both "Kid A" and "Amnesiac" can be assessed in line with "The Bends" and "OK Computer".
   
   CD one is really sheer pleasure; very nice to hear the songs in a different running order. "Creep" and "There There" blend nicely with the great songs from my two favourite albums.
   
   CD two is a different story with more focus on the later albums, and at the end of the day I realise that I probably should have bought the original albums instead, after all.
   
   Another disappointment was that my favourite non-album track "How Can You Be Sure" was not included on the the compilation - in fact CD 2 would have been a real treat if more of the finest B-sides were included
   
   For casual fans of the melodic side of Radiohead, the single-CD version of the compilation is still very recommendable.