5 comments about This Is Somewhere.

1. This album can easily be considered Grace Potter and the Nocturnals' greatest effort to date. Although they're noted for their energetic jam oriented performances, I believe the band's talent's shine the brightest in their studio recordings. In a carefully controlled studio environment, the band is more immune to the negative influences that inject sloppiness and narcissism into their live shows, which is likely caused by a demanding small pub/club touring schedule as well as drug and alcohol abuse.
   
   As bright as Grace Potter and the Nocturnals' star shines at the moment on the local/regional music scene, it is quite dim when compared to any of the legends that they so carefully attempt to emulate. Instead of a fresh group with a fresh sound, they simply re-hash what others have done much better and offer nothing new or innovative to the equation.
   
   Their songs suffer from mediocre lyrics and sub-par harmonic structures, all of which are clearly designed more for lengthy jam band performances than a succinct expression of song. However, adding too many notes and lengthening the songs in a live setting only worsen the problems.
   
   On this album, Grace Potter's singing is rather flat and lacks both range and versatility. Every tune pretty much sounds like the previous one. Grace's poorly executed pseudo-southern tinged accent fails to offer her any credibility in the southern blues/rock genre and only amplifies her shortcomings. Listening to each song only makes you ponder how much better it would sound if it were sung by Bonnie Raitt, or Etta James, or Bessie Smith.
   
   Overall, this album lacks the same sense of maturity and taste that plague the band in other areas. For instance, goofy publicity photos of orange parking cones on their heads seems to be on par with the band's musical adolescence and apparent lack of understanding of true soul and blues music.
   
   In short, pick up any Bonnie Raitt album to hear the Grace Potter and the Nocturnals sound cooked to perfection. With Raitt's soulful voice and guitar (backed by New Orleans piano master Jon Cleary) you don't need anything else. As for Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, give them 20 years and perhaps one day they'll see the light.



2. The new album by GP&N is a tremendous journey. Stop whatever your doing, put on your headphones and just listen, they will take you "somewhere", and the place your going is a great place to be.
   
   At first listen this is a solid rock album. Period. Its great stuff. But as you listen to it the second and third time it begins to reveal its real magic. The recording is just right, its crisp and intimate. This is where the headphones come in, put them on and just listen to the album, the tracks : "Apologies", "You may see me", "Lose some time" tell an intimate tale and Grace sings them that way. The tracks "Oh Mary", "MR Columbus" & "Mastermind" are great rock songs with powerful messages that hit you in different ways at different times, So this is a journey you can take again & again and its fresh each time. I find myself getting stuck on different tracks on different days, I like that. This album has replay value times 10.
   
   Grace has the "it" that is so rare,and she's brave enough to share herself with the listener. The Nocturnals are are solid band and they balance and enhance her vocals just right. I don't sense egos in there arrangements or playing. They play what needs to be there and no more. Balanced. Thus the Magic. I recommend this album, a cold beer, oh, and don't forget the headphones.



3. This Is Somewhere by Grace Potter & the Nocturnals sounds like a stellar Americana album from the 1970's. This album was released in 2007 but I like the old-fashioned feel to this cd, Grace Potter's voice is soulful and gorgeous from track 1 through 11. Standout tracks include: Lose Some Time, Big White Gate, Mastermind, Ah Mary, Mr. Columbus, and Apologies. The rest of the band sound amazing as well, Potter's songwriting is unique and strong. Every song has a catchy hook or chorus but without coming off cheesy or glossy. Another reason why I like This Is Somewhere, the album is not over-produced, has a laid-back and home-like feel to each song. I highly recommend this under-rated gem, enjoy!



4. The singer has a wonderful voice and the band is talented, however I definately found this lacking something that would give it more stars. I think I wanted a little more from the lyrics and a little to much Pop in this for me. Maybe I'd like the album before this better.



5. I'd heard the buzz about Grace's live shows and had a chance to catch her live at Mountain Jam II . That show caught my attention and I bought the bands "Nothing but Water" disc and wasn't overly impressed with that collection , and was dissapointed with the way it played Vs. the great energy this band showed Live. When this disc was released I bought it in hopes that Grace & band were evolving and they sure are. A bit more of a rock vibe than their first effort and it defintley plays more towards their live show. I recently paid a little more attention to the lyrics during a long car drive and and the last cut on the disc "Big White Gate" really caught my ear. I find it amazing that a woman in her early 20's can put to paper such great lyrics. I'm looking foward to seeing Grace again on stage at Mountain Jam IV at Hunter Mountain in June , and seeing this young musican evole over the next few years. ( Here are the lyrics to "Big White Gate" ) My body's acing from laying in this bed
   I went singing in the rain and the cold got to my head
   I don't know who's paying i just know what the doctor said
   84 years of a sinning life and in the morning i'll be dead
   
   I had three daughters
   A new man for every one
   The only man that i ever loved
   Left me with my only son
   I was a no good mother
   I was a no good wife
   There's only one thing that i did right in this godforsaken life
   
   Saint peter won't you open up the big white gate
   Cause i heard about forgiveness and i hope it ain't too late
   I ain't no holy roller but you go tell your king
   That all the folks up in heaven might like to hear me sing
   
   I sang to my children
   Before they strayed so far
   I sang for my lovers
   Or a nickel in a tip jar
   I never knew jesus
   I never read the good book
   But on my day of dying
   I'm giving life a second look
   
   Saint peter won't you open up the big white gate
   Cause i heard about forgiveness and i hope it ain't too late
   I ain't no holy roller but you go tell your king
   That all the folks up in heaven might like to hear me sing
   
   It's coming on time now
   My body's getting cold
   I've got no will i've got no prayer
   My story's all been told
   I'm ready for the land of fire
   But i'd love to see the land of gold
   So nurse bring me my guitar
   One more song before i go
   
   Saint peter won't you open up the big white gate
   Cause i heard about forgiveness and i hope it ain't too late
   I ain't no holy roller but you go tell your king
   That all the folks up in heaven might like to hear me sing

5 comments about Leave a Whisper.

1. From the first few times I listened to this CD I knew it was going to be an instant classic. Not only did they turn me into a Shinedown addict immediately, they introduced me to other bands along the same sound, such as Alter Bridge. Us and Them is a great CD don't get me wrong, but this one completely destroys it!



2. I bought this for a friend's christmas present and he liked it a lot and from what I've listened too it's pretty good alternative.



3. Got the 2004 Enhanced CD yesterday from a local store and listened for 3 hours straight. Almost all the songs on it are great and I will definitely keep an eye on this band for further CD's. However, wondering if anyone else has had the problems I had. The 15th Track, an acoustic version of "45", would not copy to computer -- kept getting error message. I exchanged the CD and got same error message with the replacement CD. Also, this enhanced 2004 CD says it includes a video of "45" and contains a 16th "data track", but video will not play in either computer or DVD player. Has anyone else had this problem? Would like to know before I purchase a third copy of this CD.



4. Great CD. Contains several great songs to include "45" and "Burning Bright" The whole CD is filled with good or at least decent songs. This was my second time buying the CD because I lost the original copy that I had bought some time ago.



5. I but a lot of music, I've bought several albums before and after this one, but very rarely I find an album where I love EVERY song, and this is one of them. It is a must have for all rock and roll fans, if only for the excellent version of Skynyrd's "Simple Man", which I have never, ever heard done so well. Thumbs UP!

5 comments about Secrets.

1. I was really surprised by this album. I didn't have high expectations, but the instrumental work is fabulous and her voice works very well on nearly every vocal track. Great stuff, I'd definitely recommend it.



2. Thanks to Amazon I listened to snippets of this album and recognized a voice very much akin to Alison Krauss and also a tremendous mandolin player. Then I dug deeper and found out many members of Union Station were guests on and produced the album. And then, I discovered that talent was still in her teens and I was blown away! Every song is a keeper and to think this young lady will only get better as time goes by is just down right scary!!! This CD has none of that first-timer feel to it at all. Be part of a legend in the making and buy this magnificent work.Secrets



3. There is not one song on this album that I dislike. This is the first album in a long long time where I have enjoyed every single song. This girl is very talented. Not only can she play the varnish off a mando but has the voice of an angel.



4. I never considered myself a fan of Bluegrass as a genre but it has slowly crept into my collection. Sierra's album has definitely won a place there. Her talents are revealed through this album. Every track is delightful -- hard to pick a favorite!
   I would recommend this album to anyone who loves music. She will reach out with her mandolin and touch your soul. A lovely young woman with a lovely voice--can't wait to hear more!



5. She is one of the best of the new generation bluegrass artists. Her style of playing and the pure, on pitch voice is a joy to hear. I really liked the last track for its simple, clear style. She will only get better as she matures. A must have, especially if you like good mandolin playing!

5 comments about Time Bomb.

1. Time Bomb is often viewed as Buckcherry's sophomore slump, coming between more successful efforts with bigger hits.
   
   This criticism is partially true. Time Bomb] didn't produce the hits of either their self-titled debut or the more recent Fifteen. But aside from that fact, it's a very strong album, full of hard rockin' tracks, as well as quality softer songs that give the album a good deal of balance. This all adds up to an album that has some of Buckcherry's hardest hitting tracks, such as "Whiskey in the Morning," "Frontside," and "Ridin'," as well as some great ballads (so to speak), in "Open My Eyes" and "You." Of course, it's not all the two extremes. Straight ahead rockers ("Underneath") are found throughout.
   
   Really, it's a very cool album if you're a fan of hard rock. It may lack some of the hits of Buckcherry's other two albums, but it's far from the failure that some claim it to be.



2. Time Bomb-Buckcherry *****
   
   
   If you heard the debut album then you know what to expect. With their hard rocking California style and their punk leanings Buckcherry have once again released an album that will please even the hardest of rock credicts. This was the bands second album before their nearly eight years hiatious causing phenomonal frontman Joshua Todd to persue a solo project which while promising was nothing compared to the power of Buckcherry. Keith Neilson laid low over the next couple of years until Buckcherry reformed in 2005 with all new members except Neilson and Todd for the album 15 (also recomended).
   
   Partys, durgs, alcohol, getting laid, and living the rock n' roll lifestyle are the main subjects of this album. From the start of the album with 'Frontside' you can tell the band means buisness. It's a killer song with high energy, and great way to start the album. Next is the semi-hit single 'Ridin' which is one of the bands best songs and a concert favorite. A great party song! 'Time Bomb' the title track is exactly that...a bomb waiting to blow. In your face from start to finish and some great guitar work from Keith and Yogi. It's easy to see why this is the title track. 'Porno Star' is about what else..."big 'blank, mother blank porno stars." Great bluesy guitar playing here and some great vocals from Todd. 'Place In The Sun' is very Sex Pistols esq. It is done well but the song could have been better. 'Helpless' is a great song, very emotion and personal. Once again Todds vocals are at the top of his game. 'Underneath' is alright I do think the album would be alright with out it but it does make for a nice addition. 'Slit My Wrists' is killer, without a doubt one of the best songs the band has ever composed. Very high energy and yet laid back at the same time. 'Whiskey In The Morning' is one of the better songs on the album. It has a great bridge in the middle where everything slows down and Todds vocals get real high. The guitar playing is probably the best on the album. 'You' is so good it hurts. A bitter sweet love song with out of this world good lyrics. This really shows that the boys are more then just dirty gritty rock and roll songs. 'Slamin' is just everything Buckcherry is. Thats the best thing to say about it and really the only thing you can say about it. It maybe the best song one the album, at least the second best. 'Fall' is a great song that was released as a single but did not chart very well and it is hard to explain why because it is a great song. 'Open My Eyes' is a bonus track on the album and it goes without saying that it is the best song here. Just Joshua Todd, a piano, his voice, and the best lyrics he has ever written in his life and really some of the greatest lyrics ever written. This man is a genius. On a personal note this song helped me to purpose to my wife. This song is amazing and a brilliant way to end the album.
   
   Surprsingly this album flopped. The record company Dreamworks folded right after the release of the which left no money for videos or any promotion of any kind making the album vertually unknown with the exception of the 'Ridin' video. So they decided to go their sepperate ways and only Todd and Neilson have done anything since then.
   
   Time Bomb is an album that I would recomend to anyone who loves rock n' roll. If you heard the debut, 15, or even Joshua Todds solo work "You Made Me" then you will surly love this album as well. I am just glad that the band is back togther making great music once again because Buckcherry is truly the best band to come along in the last fifteen years.



3. The label needs to hurry up and get this album back into print, hopefully these guys are on the rise again. Timebomb is a solid sophomore effort for Buckcherry, I even prefer it to their first album. The highlights in my mind? Time Bomb and Porno Star both have great choruses, granted you don't buy the "clean" version I imagine. Slit My Wrists is great, and Whiskey in the Morning is just a good old fashioned rocker that I love about these guys. On the other hand, you can play Open My Eyes to get your girlfriend to shed a tear..lol.



4. There's just something about this band, and especially this album... it's powerful. Amazon really needs a sound sample of "Slit My Wrists" - THE best song on here, with strangely beautiful and melodic parts placed inside a fast, upbeat tune (despite the dark title). The band is generally raunchy but some lyrics are surprisingly deep and unbelievably intense. I wish I had gotten into this band sooner - they're amazing, and just get better as they go!



5. If you love a band that has that great classic rock sound Buckcherry is the band for you. I got this cd the day it came out and I still listen to it to this day. If you ever get a chance to see them live you will understand what all the buzz is about.
   
   Stand Out Tracks:
   Ridin' (single)
   Porno Star (single)
   Whiskey In The Morning
   Slamin'

5 comments about She Ain't Me.

1. This record should be one of the better ones of this year. Carrie's first album, "Seven Angels On A Bicycle" was a real treat and this one just expands her artistry. Always a great fiddle player, she has now progressed to playing mando-bird (electric mandolin) and tenor guitar. Her singing is also getting better; and she is writing more songs. On this record she co-wrote with the likes of Gary Louris, Mary Gautier, Dan Wilson, Jim Boquist & Leslie Nail. The production by Malcolm Burn is excellent. Carrie uses her own band on most of the songs, and they are augmented by Richie Stearns (Banjo), the great Greg Leisz (pedal steel, lap steel and guitars) Malcolm Burn (keyboards & guitar). Lucinda Williams sings on "Mask Of Moses" and Aoife O'Donovan sings on two songs. The record as a whole really fits together. Some of my favorite songs are: "Infinite Night", written with Louris who also sings backup, "She Ain't Me", "Rag Doll", a song written by Sandrine and beautifully sung by Carrie. Also "Mask Of Moses", "Grace", and "El Dorado".
   I think the record will appeal to a wide range of listeners. Especially if you like Emmylou Harris & Lucinda Williams.



2. In fairness I've only listened through a couple of times but I'm sorely disappointed in the effort. Carrie Rodriguez is a remarkable talent who has thrived in her partnership with Chip Taylor. What worked so well for and between them was at least in part his ear for a good tune and his world-weariness that cast the perfect backdrop for her to shine. She was always able to present herself as a quite plausible peer among an ever-so-slightly rough crowd of seasoned rowdies. The feeling that everything was sort of thrown together on the spot out of pure raw talent and experience worked well to showcase her multiple talents.
   
   This album, on the other hand, is pure marketing. From the dolled-up photos to the way-overproduced feel, this is all wrong. (Interestingly, Gracenote has it classified as "Pop.") It really sounds to me like some kind of mutant packaging project where the idea was to try to force her into clones of songs by one each of a dozen recognizable and highly marketable girl singers. It doesn't work.
   
   I don't mean to say she is nothing without Chip Taylor. Far from it. She is exceptionally talented. But I do mean that Chip Taylor has clearly played a crucial role in clearing the space to let her work shine. If she's going to flourish without him she's going to have to find enough spine to follow her art and ditch the marketing team that is serving her so poorly. Unless, of course, I've got it wrong and the gig with Chip Taylor was just to pay the bills and she was merely the best actress ever pretending to be into all that while she waited for her big chance to step out and make some pap under her own name.
   
   Look, she's a terrific musician who can also turn a phrase with that delicious twang of hers. Casting her as the girl singer on a pop record is a tremendous waste. If you want to see what makes Carrie Rodriguez special look up the YouTube video of her playing off Chip Taylor on a live rendition of Wild Thing. She turns just the right phrase with just the right inflection and then she tears into that fiddle. Please, spare me the airbrush.



3. rodriguez is currently touring with lucinda williams...one new york paper gave this album two and a half stars and so i listened to it, because they were being unfair...some of her lyrics are flat but ms. rodriguez's singing makes them listenable....plus her band always keeps things moving nicely...i look forward to hearing her first album...



4. In her second solo album Carrie Rodriguez leaves her fruitful partnership with songwriter Chip Taylor further behind. Most of the songs are at least partly hers: she collaborates with a group of talented co-writers and is backed up by a really great band, led by guitarist Hans Holzen, that forms a perfect foil for her distinctively smoky voice. The total sound, overseen by veteran producer Malcolm Burn, covers both pop and country territory but is all of a piece, avoiding the slightly overproduced feel of her first solo outing, "Seven Angels on a Bicycle."
   
   Whether laying down the political gauntlet in "Infinite Night" and "Mask of Moses," or mulling over love's sorrows in "Rag Doll" and "Can't Cry Enough," or getting down with some gritty fiddle playing in "Absence" (too bad there isn't more on this album) Rodriguez delivers unforced, sincere emotion, even when her different vocal registers aren't perfectly in sync (high notes tend to be little more than whispers). The title track is a knowing, sassy take on the old "cheating song" theme that could well be delivered by the likes of Dolly Parton. It has an agreeable way of getting stuck in one's head that suggests it could get lots of airplay. I've listened to all of this artist's albums from the beginning and eagerly look forward to more.



5. This album is fresh, inventive and well crafted. Stylistically it ranges from folk to rock to infectious bluegrass but maintains continuity. The lyrics are unusual, often catchy, and they resonate. There is some nice fiddle on several of the tracks. Absence is one of the best, reminiscent of Alison Krauss and Union Station. Other songs like Grace and Infinite Night remind me of Jonatha Brooke. However, Carrie Rodriguez really has her own sound that is indefinable and very appealing.

5 comments about Carry On.

1. "You Know My Name" from CASINO ROYALE is an unbelievable song and really blows you away. As for the rest of the album the songs seem rather perfunctory and almost fillers. The main selling point or should I say interest in this Cd was primarily for "You Know My Name." It was omitted from the soundtrack for CASINO ROYALE and thus many Bond fans and others wanted to know why, where and when "You Know My Name" would show up. In an interview I read with Chris Cornell he stated that he would be releasing this song on his own album and did not want it included on the CASINO ROYALE soundtrack. After nearly two years since the release of CASINO ROYALE it almost seems a mute point. CARRY ON as an album just does not seem up to Cornell's previous work with the exception of "You Know My Name" which is an outstanding song. On first hearing it, it is not your typical James Bond song but by the end of the film it really hits its mark.



2. What makes Chris Cornell a dynamic singer/songwriter, is that he has the uncanny ability to explore every single inch of a song and come at it from every angle. When Cornell is finished with a song, you are left feeling like no one can ever do that song justice...not in a tribute album, not ten years from now.
   
   Carry On is proof positive that Chris Cornell is still one of the best singers of his time. Cornell hasn't lost any of his sagacity over the years, if anything, he comes off as wiser. This album is perfect for a nice long weekend.
   
   New favorite song of all time "Your Soul Today"



3. I am such a huge fan of Chris Cornell. I've been listening to him for nearly 15 years now. I've loved soundgarden, temple of the dog, audioslave and his solo projects. Carry On is so incredible and I listen to and enjoy the entire thing. Poison Eye, She'll Never Be Your Man, Scar on the Sky and Your Soul Today are great songs and worth the price of admission. The songs that touch me most deeply, though, are Arms Around Your Love, Ghosts, Finally Forever and Disappearing Act. Any of these can move me to tears on any given day for many different reasons. And Safe and Sound is one of those songs that really should be in a hymnal. It's a call from one soul to another to envision our world as a more beautiful place. This song inspires me to be a better human being and I truly hope that everyone who hears it gets the same feeling. This CD is such a truly amazing gift from a powerful songwriter/musician.



4. ...after listening to him near-constantly due to my husband's love of everything Cornell. I've grown to very much enjoy him, and this album is wonderful.



5. comparisons to CC's sound with major bands is unfair. His 1st solo album was a sizable departure from Soundgarden after their demise. I have to say that i'm a major vocal/music person. owning Euphoria Morning for 5 years, i've still never sat down & absorbed the lyrics to it. people have said the new album lyrics are lame, but i don't think they're much different than the 1st album 8 years before. Cornell's vocal ability & attack on the songs is what i appreciate the most. Maynard from TOOL/A Perfect Circle is the only singer who can come close to the vocal control/play CC has. Maybe add on Serj Tankian from System of a Down - how much do we care what he sings about? banana terracotta anyone?
   
   If you really like Cornell's voice, it's worth it to pick up this album. i spoke to a fan the other day & we agreed that we'd listen to a song about pooping in your hand if Cornell did the singing/music! You can almost hear it in your head & it makes you smile when you know you'd dig it, at least a little...
   
   the album is book-ended by the 2 coolest songs in my opinion: 'No Such Thing' at the front & the bond theme song he did at the back. the weight varies from song to song on which ones will hit you personally, but there isn't a weak one that stands out to me.
   
   Chris Cornell (& Maynard) is the best thing to come out of the early 90's, & we're so blessed that he's still making music. We lost Layne Staley, so the other shining star to come from Seattle is gone. AIC & Soundgarden are the crux of the long-lasting effects of grunge. NONE of their albums lose their strength as time goes on. GO see Cornell live - you'll hear Soundgarden (1/2) & Audioslave (1/4) songs. Then go see AIC with their new singer, it's a great show & if you close your eyes - it's there. i missed them a few times & i'm grateful to get to hear those songs live.
   
   word,

5 comments about 7even Year Itch: Collective Soul Greatest Hits 1994-2001.

1. I really enjoy that this CD is composed of some of Collective Soul's greatest hits! All of my personal favorites are on this one.



2. I have gotten several "hits" albums that I found less than impressive. This is one of the better ones I have heard and considering I have all of the other CS albums I have to say its a strong collection.
   If you are new to the band or only have 1 or 2 albums this is a strong selection to get you caught up.



3. I enjoy this band's music , this is the only CD that collects my faverite songs by this band .
   I say buy it!



4. This is a collection of the best songs by one the of the most underrated groups ever! If you have heard one of these songs, and like it, then just go ahead and buy this CD - It has all of their rocking tunes, a great introduction to a great band.



5. Great CD. Well worth the money. You will not find yourself fast forwarding through this CD.

5 comments about Foiled.

1. I absolutely love this album as do my kids. We listen to it over and over. Can't wait for their new release to come out.



2. This is a pretty good cd with a lot of good songs , very good album to add to your collection , highly recommended.



3. This is a pretty good CD, not as good as their HISTORY FOR SALE (which is my very fave) and CONSENT TO TREATMENT...but not bad at all. A tiny bit more rough than those two.



4. Foiled
   
   My late boyfriend got me into this band. We both could relate to it very well since a lot of the songs are about dealing with madness. What drew me in was the lyrics. I find this album very comforting to listen to, especially 'Into the Ocean' and "X Amount of Words' since both songs parallel current life events.
   
   I normally don't listen to 'mainstream' music, but Blue October is truly exceptional in a lot of ways, not the least of which is the uncomfortable subject matter dealt with in a heartfelt way.



5. From the opening lyric of "Into the Ocean," Blue October grabs you with its unique sound, the throbbing beat and complex lyric, "I'm just a normal boy that sank when I fell overboard. The ship would leave the country. But I'd rather swim ashore. Without a life vest, I'd be stuck again; Wish I was much more masculine." The catchy hook is addictive. My other favorite on this disc is "X Amount of Words" that is lyrically jammed with Justin Furstenfeld's breathy vocals and stadium crowd sound effects, "Systematic, sympathetic, quite pathetic, apologetic, paramedic, your heart is prosthetic." The tracks are so original that they jump out of the speakers. "Let It Go" & "She's My Ride Home" also capture attention. "Foiled" is a great disc! "Enjoy!"

5 comments about Break the Cycle.

1. When Staind dropped `Mudshuvel' they immediately built a fan base, but it wasn't until the solemn `Outside' hit airways that they became a household name. Now, it doesn't matter really who you are, you've heard of Staind in one way shape or form. Their songs litter the radio waves; they appear on countless magazine covers and back up plenty of soundtracks and film trailers. Staind has become an international hit, thanks to `Break the Cycle'.
   
   That said, this may be my least favorite album they have released.
   
   When I say this, I don't mean it in an extremely negative way, because truth be told, Staind is my favorite band out there today and everything they put out I listen to and adore in its own respect, but the one thing that put me off from `Break the Cycle' was the fact that it seemed (at least to me) that the band was trying way too hard here. Even if collectively the album is better than `14 Shades of Grey' I tend to prefer the latter only because it seems to come a little more natural to the band. On `Break the Cycle' Staind was trying to find themselves, that balance between the brutality of `Dysfunction' and the melodiousness of their latest effort `The Illusion of Progress'. What happened, as a result, is an album that feels strangely uneven.
   
   So, lets start with the good. `Outside' sounds completely natural and pristine on all levels. This is the band that Staind was always meant to be. Don't get me wrong, I love the raw intensity they brought to `Dysfunction', but the truth of the matter is that this band was never meant to be savage, and the effortless way they sink into the groove of `Outside' is major proof of that. Same can be said for the massive hit `It's Been Awhile'. The song is beautifully constructed and highlights the bands massive talent. It is vocally brilliant and musically impressive. Following in this same line of melodic passion is `Epiphany', which may be the most beautiful song this band has ever penned. Aaron Lewis and an acoustic guitar; you can't get any better than that.
   
   The there are some tracks that are decent, yet not superb.
   
   The album opens up with `Open You Eyes', which is much more commercial than anything off of `Dysfunction' but it sounds as if it fits well. It seems a little too simple to me, but it is not a bad track by any means. `For You' was a huge hit for the band, and I can see why, but upon multiple listens it becomes more and more obvious how clichéd this track really is. This is not a song to become rooted it. Yes, it is a good song and it is easy to grab hold of (it is the heaviest song that sounds right on the album, since the other `heavy' tracks sound forced and unnatural, and this does not) but this is not a `great' song. `Fade' and `Change' possess (possibly) the best vocal work on the album. The way Lewis allows his voice to caress each and every word can illicit chills, but the fact remains that the tracks themselves don't really hold up over time. The verses are superb, but the generic commercial way they crafted the chorus lines is a major drawback.
   
   Then there are the songs that fall somewhere in the middle.
   
   `Safe Place' is a song that I really want to like, one that has a lot of potential, but the downplayed vocals take away from the power this song could have had. Aaron has one of the greatest voices in the world of rock and roll, yet he doesn't capitalize on them here. He always appears to be holding himself back. `Pressure' tries far too hard to be the band Staind was in the beginning, and the end result is less that it could have been. I abhor the chorus; I like the verses; I love the bridge...in the end I'm indifferent. The concept behind `Waste' is great, but like `Safe Place' Lewis continues to sound restrained, and restraint is not something this song should have possessed. If he had just let go a little more the song could have really been a highlight of the album.
   
   And then there are the downright bad tracks.
   
   `Suffer' just doesn't work on any level. Aaron's heavy breathing is annoying and out of place and the chorus is so far removed from the track it borders ridiculous. As bad as `Suffer' is, `Can't Believe' is even worse. This song tries so hard to be heavy that it just comes off as a really bad garage band trying to be heavy. Aaron really needs to stay away from screaming. This is so odd to say, because his brutal vocals in `Dysfunction' were so appropriate and natural, yet here he sounds so out of his element.
   
   The album closes with `Take It'. Now I was really excited when this song kicked into the first verse because it just felt so right. The guitar work, the bass lines, Aaron's vocals; it just all seemed to fit. That said; the chorus drags it down a bit. I won't say it ends on a bad note, but I can't say that it ends as well as I was hoping for. The chorus almost stops the brilliant progression they were establishing. Thankfully the bridge actually nails it. The whole album they were attempting to straddle the fence of heavy and melodic and finally they managed to get it right, to where it felt comfortable. I just wish the chorus would have done it for me, for then it would have possible been the best track on the album.
   
   So, we all know I am a huge fan (like I said; favorite band) but I have to be honest and objective. Do I like this album? Yes. Do I own it and listen to it regularly? Yes. Do I consider it a fine testament to the band Staind has become? Not really. `Break the Cycle' is a transition piece for me. It contains a few really good songs and a slew of decent ones with potential, but the bands shaky legs can be seen on many of the tracks as they try to find themselves musically. I think that `Chapter IV' and `The Illusion of Progress' are more definitive of the band as a whole. `Break the Cycle' is the bridge to get from here to there.



2. This album kicks some serious a**. Aaron Lewis really pours it out. When I heard the song Waste, maaaan I was shocked. At about the 2:50 min mark he unleashes like a beast. His aggression drives me. Warm Safe Place is Aaron at his best as well. His lyrics make you really think, he has me rewinding like crazy. Not to mention he does it behind some insane guitar riffs and hectic drum lines. I think this is their best album and i truly recommend it.



3. Staind's Break the Cycle really pushes the boundaries of metal in terms of power. Singer Aaron Lewis' lyrics are the foundation for this album. It's filled with pain, despair, and real problems without the annoying "f*** everything kill everyone satan blah blah" heavy metal stereotype. Staind's music is haunting, to say the least, but at the same time, delicate. The guitars and drums blend perfectly with each song. Then again, some of the music could be better. I loved the song "Waste", but the instrumentals didn't fit with the words. With topics ranging from broken friendships ("Fade") to teenage suicides ("Waste"), Staind dares to be real to its audience, and has done so for the past 11 years.



4. Staind's "breakthrough" album, Break the Cycle, is a very good album. I'm surprised I say that, because usually when a band goes from an album like Dysfunction to an album like Break the Cycle, I'd say they sold out. However, I believe this is a different case. Break the Cycle is not much like Dysfunction, and it sure is hell isn't like Tormented, but it is extremely good in my opinion. I don't think the album is soft, I think it is not as hard as their previous albums. The disc has some gems on it, "Its Been Awhile" being one of them. Others include "Pressure" and "Epiphany". I give it 4 stars because, quite frankly, I don't believe it is their best, but I do believe that it is a really good album.



5. I recently listened to this album again and it took me back to my high school years when I was a angry teenager and this album really meant something to me. Staind can relate to the pre teen high school crowd because they make the kind of music that you'd want to listen to after getting into a screaming match with your parents. Running up to your bedroom and slamming the door behind you, you could slip on your headphones and listen to any one of Aaron Lewis' teenage angst driven songs on this CD, epitomized by "For You", the musical equivalent of flipping the bird at the parental unit. After it's over you'd get a shot of adrenaline. Flinging open the door you'd say something like "See mom and dad, I'm not to blame for my problems with other people, it's all you! Aaron Lewis speaks the truth!"
   
   I can't forget those years fast enough
   
   When was in school it seemed like everyone had this album, from the truly angry and bullied kids, to the fairly well adjusted and the salutatorian, who was angry that his 3.95 GPA couldn't be rounded up to a 4.0, justifying his purchase of the album.
   
   In the label filled world of music, Staind is classified as nu metal, a genre of music where the lead singer complains about his many misfortunes and failed upbringing. On this album, Staind does this quite well and it has their most well known songs, like "For you" "It's been awhile", "Epiphany" and "Outside" I may not like this album as much as I used to when I was a teen, but it did get me into hard rock and grunge, leading to my interest in bands like Soundgarden, and for that I'll give them their due, and I have a soft spot for epiphany and a few other songs, so it isn't terrible, but for me the music hasn't aged well and doesn't sound as hard and edgy as it did in high school. After listening to Lewis' socioeconomic themed "Open Your Eyes" and "Pressure", about one of his bad experiences with drugs, all I did was shake my head in disbelief that at one time I actually thought this was great music.
   
   Some reviewers say this album is Staind's best while hardcore fans say they sold out with this one. I say they sold out with their next album 14 shades of grey, which has a bunch of weepy ballads that were better suited for adult contemporary stations. This trend has continued up to their most recent album Chapter V. This album may not be a "hard" rock album like "Tormented", but it sounds harder than future stuff
   
   You can only like Staind for as long as you can relate to Aaron Lewis. Once you realize that he's now a successful sell out ballad happy artist who's wallowing in his past in a desperate attempt to sell albums, you'll find them annoying. Still I think you'll be forgiven by most people if they find this disc in your collection, because it has their best songs that are still worth a listen every once in awhile.

5 comments about Nirvana.

1. For some reason I never even knew this album existed. It's basically a "Best Of" compilation with the last recorded song with Kurt on it. For a pretty good collective of the music landscape changing geniuses, this is pretty good. For a cheap starting point I would recommend the first two albums but for any not sure of where to go with Nirvana, this is an excellant CD including "The Man Who Sold The World" and "Rape Me" - that is for sure, one of my all time fav performances by Nirvana.



2. if you don't already have all the Nirvana albums, you should definitely buy this one.



3. I was so happy to purchase Nirvana's self-titled Greatest Hits album. What can you say about this awesome band that hasn't already been said? From the time period of 1989 to 1994, Nirvana were on top of the world. Nirvana lead the grunge movement of the early 90's that included bands like Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice In Chains. Nirvana's impact on music cannot be denied. Despite the tragic suicide death of Kurt Cobain, their music still lives on to this day. The trio that also includes Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl & Krist Novaselic had so many great songs. Classics like "Smells Like Teen Spirit", "Come As You Are", "In Bloom", "All Apologies", "About A Girl", "Lithium" and "Rape Me" can all be found on this Greatest Hits collection. I definitely recommend this purchase for any rock music fan that wants to get caught up on Nirvana.



4. Forget what the haters say. This is better than "Nevermind", "Bleach", and "In Utero", It's got only the best singles and is very worthy of being called a greatest hits compilation.
   
   BUY THIS!!!



5. This is the best Nirvana cd to own. Every single song on it is of course great, and I can never get enough of this cd. Its perfect.