5 comments about Kill the House Lights.

1. Track 1 could be the best song Thursday has ever created. They could of sold an entire album with this song. It worries me to think that they have to top this now.
   
   This is far from a sell out cd to make money. This was made out of love for the fans.
   
   Thursday has always been one of my favorite bands, but I didn't know much about their history and how they came together. After watching the dvd, I've got a lot more respect for the work these guys have put in touring and putting in the extra work to always be on the cutting edge.
   
   The dvd was really well produced and well worth the money.



2. but the sad thing is that while being an amazing band they still apparently fall victim to money schemes set up by record companies.. while its neat as hell to hear the demos again from years ago, the final album cut versions of the songs were put on the record for a reason. they were better, period.
   
   the dvd is amazing from what I hear, haven't watched it yet myself. for the cd portion of the record, I would say probably not worth the money unless thursday is your favorite band (myself). honestly from the outside looking in its pretty dull in retrospect, however again I've heard a few times the price is worth the dvd contained inside so keep that in mind.



3. The only reason to truly warrant a purchase of this set is for the added DVD. The DVD that's packaged with the compilation contains well shot concert footage and a full length documentary that will definitely be entertaining for those who are fans of the band.
   
   Kill the House Lights starts off with three original, never before released, tracks. This without a doubt is the highlight of the CD. "Ladies and Gentlemen: My Brother, The Failure" starts us off. The song is definitely not the most inventive cut the band has ever done, but it's a hell of alot more interesting than the rehashed demos that follow it. The other three "new" songs that are oddly placed between a single live song (Signals Over the Air) and demos that aren't all that different from the finished products that wound up appearing on their respective albums, are sad attempts to make this disc relevant.
   
   "A Sketch for Time's Arrow," is a simplistic minute and a half interlude, featuring Geoff's tortured vocal, repetitive guitar work and not much else. "Panic On the Streets of Health Care City," is not only a mouthful but the working demo of the song "Counting 5-4-3-2-1." Although it's interesting to listen to once, it's easy to see why the drastic change was made to the song before it made the album. The last original song is the instrumental "Roar of Far Off Black Jets," which pales in comparison to the lively "Arc -Lamps, Signal Flares, A Shower of White," the splendid instrumental track that was placed on the band's last album, A City by the Light Divided.
   
   There is some good amongst all the muck for those willing to dig. The furious "Dead Songs" is the heaviest track Thursday has put out since 2001's Full Collapse, and may be the one song good enough to have made the tracklisting on one fo the band's full length LPs. The documentary and live performances on the DVD is also a delight for true fans of the band, which I do consider myself to be, just don't expect this collection to convert you in to one. Sadly, it may just do the opposite.



4. when i came home and saw this album had come in the mail i just about peed my pants...its always fun to hear b-sides, demos, etc...but the dvd is more than any fan could ask for...it has a documentary thats 2 hours long and it only gets better as it goes...on top of that theres tons of live footage...which...i love...seeing as how ive gone to every holiday show (at starland ballroom) theyve ever put on (this year's new year's party should be the best ever)... my favorite of the 3 new songs is ladies and gentlemen.... this song is close to my heart b/c i can relate to the lyrics on a variety of levels...but then again...i can relate to alot of the songs...either way...i think it shows a little bit of what thursday is going to be putting out in the near future and i personally cannot wait another minute



5. I saw Thursday live once. It was sometime between Full Collapse and War All The Time. It was one of the most amazing shows I've been to. It was like the entire audience knew all of the lyrics to every song, and everyone was screaming the scream-o parts with such intensity. The energy in the room was incredible. You can hear change from album to album, but they are still an amazing band and I appreciate everything they've done. As far as this release, I'd pay $20 just for the documentary that chronicles the entire lifeline of the band with some cool live performance footage. The DVD also includes enough live songs to almost make a full concert. And of course, you get the CD which is worth the price alone. If you like Thursday, get it.

5 comments about The Isle of View.

1. I've had this CD since it came out - and it is still one of the CD's in my most listened to pile.
   Such a great live acoustic set with so much feeling added into the songs from Chrissie. If your a pretenders fan or not, you're sure to love it.



2. Love Chrissie's Sound, Style, Poetry you will absolutely love the work she has done here !
   Must Have.
   Turn it up and Hit the Replay All Button.
   
   ENJOY
   
   PEACE



3. Chrissie Hynde's bad attitude was always more refreshing than most - she has no patience for celebrity, no desire to sugarcoat her "message," barely even a desire to give anyone asking her a question the time of day. One of the great shocks of The Isle of View, then, is Hynde's vulnerability in full play. It's an acoustic set, but it's an coustic set of a particular bent - the guitar parts of old get morphed into string arrangements, and on occasion, the songs themselves morph in tone. The result is remarkable - it's not just a shift in tone during a song like "Back On The Chain Gang," it's a somber, moving refocusing of that song's true nature of loss and nostalgia. The best moments of the album are like that - versions of "Kid," "Sense of Purpose," or "2000 Miles" that take the songs in directions you didn't realize they'd gone all along, which proves just what a deft poet Chrissie Hynde can be. It needs to be said that not all the moments are perfect - the laconic version of "I Go To Sleep" is just laconic, and the rejiggering of their obscure debut album song "Lovers Of Today" might only prove that the song should have been forgotten in the first place. Still, by the time Hynde arrives at her last extraordinary "Freedom!" in "Revolution," the strings blazing with galvanic charm, it gets difficult to imagine a much better live attempt than this one - a winning, sly, cleverly concocted minimalist set.



4. I am a lukewarm Pretenders fan, enjoyed the first three albums, felt they lost a bit along the way after that, but still always willing to give Chrissie and friends the benefit of the doubt.
   
   Here they turn in a surprisingly strong live, acoustic set, covering old, new, and forgotten songs from their catalogue, with tasteful backing from a string quartet. Some tunes work better than others: "Private Life" and "I Hurt You" work especially well, as Chrissie's mournful voice mixes perfectly with the delicate acoustic guitar and string backup. "Back on the Chain Gang," on the other hand, is a bit awkward and forced.
   
   But with picture-perfect versions of "2000 Miles," "Chill Factor," and a strong opener, "Sense of Purpose," this is overall a very strong addition to the Pretenders canon, worth picking up for its unique and somewhat experimental handling of these classic songs.



5. This little gem snuck into The Pretenders' discography after Chrissie took a latter day incarnation of The Pretenders on an A&E concert TV special. (That show is available as "The Isle Of View" DVD.) The surprise is just how effective and intimate Chrissie sounds in the "Unplugged" setting. She split the set between obvious songs and crowd pleasers ("Brass In Pocket," "Back On The Chain Gang") a surprise or two (I always thought "Sense Of Purpose," the best song on "Packed," was unjustly ignored -- and here it's the show opener), and some delightful reworks. In particular, the string laden version of "Kid" here takes on a greater sense of maturity some twenty years down the line. While I'd have a hard time recommending "The Isle Of View" as the most potent of Pretenders albums, it remains a personal fave of mine for more relaxing moments. If you're just getting into 80's or The Pretenders' music, start with their debut, "Learning to Crawl" or the updated (and import only, come on Warners) greatest hits. But if you're already a fan and this one slipped under your radar, "The Isle Of View" is a serious contender for your listening dollars.

No comments about Live at Twist and Shout.

5 comments about Live at the Roxy.

1. Social Distortion has always been known for its live show. This CD really is the next best thing to being there. Live albums usually are a very mixed bag; however, this one lives up to all of the expectations. The sound quality is amazing and the setlist is a nearly perfect selection of their live performances during that era (it should have included sick boy though). It is also notable because this is the last Social Distortion recording featuring Dennis Danell before his death.
   
   The only thing that could have been done better on this album is that the tracks should have started at the beginning of the songs rather than beginning with Mike Ness's long speeches before each tune. Sometimes, it would be preferrable to just hear the songs without having to listen to or fast forward through Mike's views on the punk rock scene, the establishment, the "old days", or the government. Still, that really is the only complaint about this cd.



2. I consider myself a casual fan of Social Distortion, and this disk is pretty good. The sound is good, and the energy is excellent. Even Mike Ness's cheesy commentaries between songs are worth listening to. I also bought this disk for musicians I know, because Social D, especially LIVE Social D, should be required listening for anyone performing music onstage.
   
   Highlights, IMO, are Ball and Chain, Prison Bound, Ring of Fire, I Was Wrong. It's worth checking out whether you LOVE SD, are a casual fan, or never even heard their music before.



3. 1 hour ago just saw Social Distortion Live in Atlanta. People yelled all the way through the concert. Whoops and yells spilling out on the street after the concert. "Live" is the best word for this band when you see them in concert. "Live" for both girls and guys. All seemed to linger after the concert. Total adrenalin. Why see the Rolling Stones live when you can see the real deal?
   
   Some things are totally fresh after 20 years. How is that possible? 5 stars.



4. It's during Ball and Chain, more than Ring of Fire, where you can FEEL the Johnny Cash influence on Mike.
   This a pretty important album to have and I spin this way more than any other SD's.
   I always thought SD took awhile to find their identity, I wasn't a big fan of Mommy's Little Monster and prior (so I tend to skip some over some of those songs -I know that puts me in the minority) but once they did they didn't turn back (kinda like AFI).
   Ball and Chain on this album will always rank as one of the greatest country/rock songs ever written and I know that's the direction Ness wants to continue in. I just hope he keeps uptempo guitar work because it's that constant balladry, well, and a few other things, that turns me off of most country. Check it out live - preferably with a bottle of JD. Really! You'll be feeling bittersweet once the crowd starts taken the 4th verse.



5. You can forget about the debate over who the best band in America is. It begins and ends with these guys. Although not the same Social D of the 80's and 90's, in part due to aging, retirments (Johnny, we need you back on bass man!) and largely to the tragic loss of Dennis Danell, these guys simply put on the greatest show, every time. I just saw them live in Poughkeepise NY (for like the 30th time since 1992), and that show was as powerful and rocking as that first time I saw them at the Sting in New Britain, CT (and like a young dum-ass, offered Mike and Dennis a beer in the parking lot before the show).
   
   Thank you Mr. Ness, for taking time from you family and touring. And for those of you who have never seen the band play, this album is as good as being there. "The kittens are out tonight!"

5 comments about I Heard a Voice: Live from Long Beach Arena.

1. I've had this DVD since it came out and have decided it's a 5 star.
   
   There are 2 kinds of live recordings. The kind where everything sounds perfect and the voices are crystal clear and everything happening on the stage is smooth and organized.
   
   Then there is the real down and dirty kind of live recording. The kind where you can hear the crowd singing and cheering and the band is vibrating with excitement. And thats what this DVD is. Davey is so full of passion in his singing. He even looses his breath a couple of times because he's so excited. It's worth every penny especially if you are an AFI fan because you feel like you were there.



2. I was incredibly dissapointed when I heard the songs on this CD. I saw AFI at the Warped Tour in 2001, and was absolutely amazed. The band was incredible and sounded amazing. I will never forget hearing Total Immortal - the vocals and the rest of the band sounded exactly like the CD recording. Davey does a moderately decent job on the vocals for a some of the newer stuff, but older songs, and ones that feature screaming such as Death of Seasons, sound terrible in my opinion.



3. CD was awesome & in excellent condition. I would definitely buy from this seller again.



4. Great album, well structured and with a good taste of music from across most of thier albums. Favourtie songs - all of them. No real low points from the album.



5. i think this is a great addition to the afi catalog i dont understand the holdover thing people are talking about afi has like fifteen albums when do you think they should put out a live cd pantera only had four when they put theres out and nobody whined about it but anyways the cd is awsome they could of played a little more from the art of drowning but they played everything from sing the sorrow that i wanted to hear i'm not to into december underground but the songs from it honestly sound better live i think except for love like winter witch will always suck (sorry i really dont like that song)my favs from the cd would be days of the phenox,death of seasons and silver and cold theres alot more but my brains not working and i dont have the case in front of me one other cool thing about the cd is nick 13 from tiger army comes out and does a song with them so over all the cd is great and even if it is a "holdover" cd what better time to do it
   
   p.s. check out the dvd its the same show but its still enjoyable even if you heard the cd and it also has interviews

5 comments about Live.

1. Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R87V3WUK7W9I5 I own more live albums then I will ever bother to count and this set is exactly what I want out of any such set. Rather than being cobbled together from several concerts in a short time frame and then having the instruments and/or vocals overdubbed to sound less "live" (WTF?) as so many bands do, The Police gave us a true live album -blemishes and all- consisting of two very different concerts from two very different eras of the band's career. This highlights the extreme musical growth of the band in a relatively short time and proves that they could harness some serious energy playing live. Anybody unhappy with the sound obviously is not a fan of live music and should stick to studio recordings because this is as good as a genuine live album gets (aside from a slight sound problem during the first verse of "Next to You"). There can be no argument.
   
   The sampling of songs is spot-on on both discs; the first representing the band's early years aspiring to harness the energy of punk rock and reggae, the second showing the band at it's creative peak. Both are wonderful documents of where the band was at musically at the time and both absolutely rock. Sting's voice sounds killer and his typically solid bass-playing is on full display. He works the crowd and occasionally ad-libs during songs, adding some flavor to the proceedings. Andy Summers' guitar playing is the missing link between the firey punk attitude of Mick Jones and The Edge's soundscaping virtuosity; at times allowing his solos to devolve into distorted feedback that would make Greg Ginn (Black Flag) smile and other times letting subtle arpeggios and the ambience of his guitar effects work their magic -sometimes in the same song. It only takes two words to sum up Stewart Copeland: drummer's drummer.
   
   This is easily one of my favorite live albums and if you share my enthusiasm for concert recordings and The Police then this is a no-brainer. All it wants is to be next to you.



2. It is hard to believe that a band can become a Hall of Fame band with just five studio albums to their name, but the Police are such a band. This is an honor that the Police are most worthy of. The Police were sort of an off-shoot of the Punk Rock movement of the late 1970s. The band would eventually encompass other influences - namely Classic Rock, Reggae, Jazz, Dance, and even Folk. For the most part, it is fair to say there was a Punk Rock and Reggae influence on the band for their first two albums" - "Outlandos D'Amour" and "Regatta de Blanc". Both of these albums were terrific efforts - mostly because The Police used applied their unique style to a formula that worked. The Police would soon transform their sound to a more Classic Rock sound. With each successive album ("Zenyatta Mondatta", "Ghost in the Machine", and "Synchronicity"), the Police would continue to grow as a band and incorporate a variety of genres into their sound. When the Police would disband in 1986, they did not have a live album in their portfolio - despite the fact they had emerged as one of the great live bands of all-time. It would be nearly a decade later when the Police would release their first live collection - 1995's "The Police - Live!". Despite some negative criticism, this collection is worthy of the Police's Hall of Fame career as well as prove to be worth the long wait.
   
   "The Police - Live!" is a very unique live collection. It consists of two concerts - one from 1979 and one from 1983. Each concert is on a separate disc. The concerts show a great reflection of the Police's career. The November, 1979 concert, recorded in Boston at the Orpheum Theater and broadcast on WBCN radio showcases the Police's early Punk Rock and Reggae roots. This concert has much more of a "raw" edge, but you can also tell that the Police were performing in a more intimate setting. By 1983, the Police had progressed their sound and had much more of a Rock edge. The November, 1983 concert was recorded at Atlanta's Omni Arena and this concert definitely has more of an Arena Rock feel. The 1983 concert showcases a good amount of material from the "Synchronicity" album (this was the tour in support of that album), while the 1979 concert is drawn from the band's first two albums.
   
   I've heard a lot of people complain about the sound. It is important to remember that a live album will never have the audio standards of a studio album. This CD set was recorded in ADD format - meaning an Analog tape recorder was used during initial recording and a Digital tape recorder used during mixing/editing and for mastering. Overall, I think the album was well mixed and well engineered. Compared to many live albums, I consider this album to be one of the better sound qualities.
   
   Here are eleven things to look for on this collection:
   
   1-The 1979 Boston Concert contains all of the tracks from the Police's debut album with the exception of the instrumental track, "Masoko Tanga". This includes rare performances of "Peanuts", "Born in the 50s", and "Be My Girl/Sally".
   
   2-Despite the fact that "Reggata De Blanc" was the newer album, there is less material played at the Boston concert. "Message in a Bottle", "Walking On the Moon", "Bring on the Night", and "The Bed's Too Big Without You" are the only songs that are represented. The instrumental "Reggata De Blanc" is played as part of "Can't Stand Losing You" - a tradition the Police have done throughout their careers.
   
   3-The Boston concert plays two early singles not found on albums - "Fall Out" and "Landlord".
   
   4-Sting has said he had been battling laryngitis at the time of the Boston concert, but for the most part you can't tell it. The only exception seems to happen during "Peanuts" - where it definitely sounded like he was having some issues with his voice.
   
   5-The 1983 Atlanta Concert contains eight songs from "Synchronicity", including a rare performance of the Andy Summers tune - "O My God". Unfortunately the albums "Zenyatta Mondatta" and "Ghost in the Machine" end up being the big losers in this collection as only three songs total are found on the two CD set.
   
   6-I love the segue from "Synchronicity I" into "Synchronicity II" at the Atlanta concert. The segue seemed almost natural. Both performances showed the Police at the top of their game.
   
   7-The best song on the two disc set is found on the Omni performance with "King of Pain". I've always considered this a great song - and this live version is even better.
   
   8-The Police "wrap-up" the Omni concert with two songs from their first album - the traditional extended jam of "Can't Stand Losing You" (featuring "Regatta De Blanc") followed by "So Lonely".
   
   9-The Omni performance has the Police using outside singers. I had mixed feelings about this because I always liked the fact the Police would make "every sound" on their recordings. Yet, the outside vocalists add a new dimension to the band.
   
   10-One thing that is great about the Police is how they improvise during their live performances as well as create new arrangements of their songs. Both concerts showcase how well the Police has been able to do these things.
   
   11-For the most part, both concerts appear to preserve the order of the songs and give the feeling of being at the 1979 and 1983 performances respectively. It's hard to tell whether these are "complete" shows. Usually with live CDs, some songs are not included when recorded from the show.
   
   Overall this is an outstanding collection. The two concerts really contrast the early days and the latter days of the band - with both performances being outstanding. It is a live album that is truly worthy of a Hall of Fame band.



3. If you listen to this product you'll definetly consider the police a very weak live band. Actually, they are very good musicians, this is their only official live album, as far as I know and in this compilation the first disc, recorded live in 1979 is VERY painful to listen to, the band hurries through the songs, copeland constantly overplays on every song, example: the beds too big without you: it gives the impression that copeland is rearranging the song live to make it more interesting but neither Sting nor Andy seem to be able to catch on, and sting finally comes into the first verse after three attempts, Roxanne seems to fluctuate and flutter all over the place, cant stand losing you loses steam as it goes on. Overall the first record sounds like an unrehearsed police cover band. The second disc is pretty standard though absolutely not exciting, even their big hit every breath you take sounds very weak compared to the studio version. I have never seen the police live, but have heard people commenting on how great they were. I guess if this was them at their worst their best was overrated.
   
   PS: after watching the Stu Copeland movie "everybody stares" about the police, I can finally say that they were really pathetic live. very very bad, thus this album is not a fluke, the police were really this bad.



4. I bought this album after hearing the Police on Live Earth. The first cd is horrible. The band sounds like they are rushing through the concert and would rather be somewhere else. The second cd is much better.



5. This CD was received as described and is a very good deal for the price. Seller was prompt in shipment.

5 comments about Arena.

1. I have to echo a lot of these reviews criticizing the production and sound of this mostly live recording. It sounds tinny, the audience sounds like they are a mile away from the band and the echo is deafening. Add to that the band barely changes any of their songs from their studio versions and you think, "what do I need this for?"
   
   The songs here were the soundtrack to 1984 for me anyway, so there is that. The songs are all great and the band plays them with a lot of energy and excitement.
   
   Then there is "The Wild Boys" which is the lone studio recording here and it's a whopper of a track. You could describe it as "Union of the Snake, Part II" and you would be right to some extent, but "Union of the Snake" was so good, why not try it again? The lyrics are great, Simon's voice has a sort of nastiness to it you rarely hear and the guitar riffs and drum beats are just huge!
   
   You also get a very good live version of "Careless Memories" which, unlike the other live tracks here, is a bit different. This version plays up the rock vibe over the dance track it was on the first album to great effect. The same is done with the additional tracks included on this remastered version ("Rio" and "Girls On Film") So those four tracks make it worth buying, or at least listening to.
   
   Oh, the photos and the teeny-bopper packaging is so damned funny its also worth it just for the kitch of it all!



2. I'd always hoped they would get around to releasing a remaster this with a more complete show. I was hoping too much, but having the encores is kind of nice. However, there is an alternative...
   
   There's a 'bootleg' version, if you will, called "Into The Arena" (named after the board game). It's a very different mix of the Arena tracks, probably from a master tape which was used to mix down the original 1984 release. The mixes are wildly different. I mean, you can actually hear Andy's guitar work on "Hungry Like The Wolf" for a change. It contains things like a snippet of the "Tiger Tiger" intro to the show, an absolutely mind-blowing performance of "New Moon On Monday", "The Reflect", and of course the encores here. The recordings are by and large from the L.A. shows with a few extra goodies from the tour itself. here's the track listing, if you can find it. Anything denoted with a "*" is from the LA show of that tour and was used as the original master to make the Arena album. "**" designates a song dropped from "Arena". Just remember that all the arena tracks are different mixes, usually with Andy's guitar being louder.
   
   1. Tiger Tiger (intro) **
   2. Is there something I should know? *
   3. Hungry Like The Wolf *
   4. The Reflex **
   5. Cracks In The Pavement (this is the live b-side from the Save A Prayer (live) single)
   6. New Moon On Monday **
   7. New Religion **
   8. The Seventh Stranger *
   9. The Chauffer *
   10. Save A Prayer *
   11. Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me) - (This is an extended version of the one that appears on the b-side of the The Reflex 12" picture disc.)
   12. Friends Of Mine (from a different show on the same tour)
   13. Waiting For The Nightboat (from a different show on the same tour)
   14. Of Crime And Passion (from the New York FM simulcast)
   15. Careless Memories * (much longer than the Arena version)
   16. Rio **
   17. Girls On Film (the live night version) **



3. I used to sit by the river and listen to this album for hours back in high school. That was my leisure time...not doing drugs and underage drinking.



4. This is Duran Duran at their finest- totally at the peak of their game. Although I love all of their studio albums, the early ones in particular, hearing them live is a totally different experience. On Arena, Simon's voice is raw, edgy, and sexy and the band performs with wild abandon. It is in their live performances that Duran Duran's true character and musical depth and emotion ring clear. This album contains a great cross section of their earlier hits. Those of you seeking a "greatest hits" type of album will enjoy this. I personally prefer the live versions of "Save a Prayer" and "The Chauffeur" as they appear on this album, as the sensual nature of these songs seem to be better related when performed off the cuff and out of the recording studio. The addition of "Rio" and "Girls on Film" to the remastered edition only serve to improve what was already close to perfection. I also recommend obtaining the DVD "Sing Blue Silver", which is a companion documentary to this album to experience the full effect and energy of the music and the era. This album is a classic and an absolute must for all Duran Duran fans as well as for 80's afficionados.



5. DONT BUY THIS HORRIBLE ALBUM.IT IS'NT LIVE AT ALL.IT IS MADE IN THE STUDIO WITH SPECTATOR VOICES ADDED ON TO THE MUSIC.ZERO STARS.GET FRAMPTON COMES ALIVE FROM PETER FRAMPTON INSTEAD.

5 comments about Bootleg Detroit.

1. If you're considering this album, you're probably already familiar with Morphine and have some of their stuff. "Bootleg Detroit" provides a glimpse into their live show, and yeah, the sound quality isn't the greatest, that's why "bootleg" is in the title. Apparently some people (see rorscach12's review below) are too slow to get that. and the fact that stage "banter" is included is part of what makes this release cool, some people don't get that either (see same simpleminded review below). for those who never got to see them live, it's interesting to hear that part of a live show. plus there's material (Come Along) you won't hear on any other releases. if you're a Morphine fan, should probably get it, if you're just getting into them, pick up another studio album first.



2. This is Morphine at their raw best! This recording is a snapshot of one of Morphine's best live performances ever! Mark stated the following year that "the last time we played here at St. Andrews was one of the best shows we've ever had". The band was touring in support of their hit album "Cure For Pain" when they rolled into Detroit on this Monday night to play to one thousand lucky fans at this packed, intimate Detroit club. I remember leaving the show that night with the master tape in my bag -- that is now memorialized on the this disc -- feeling completely energized and transformed. I was repeating the phrase "that was the best show I have ever seen" over and over to any one who would listen. I thank God I was rolling tape that night, recording the "Morphine experience". Unfortunately, when Mark edited it he left out 20 minutes of great music. However, the 40 minutes that is there is exceptional. I am grateful Mark had the opportunity to again enjoy this stellar performance and found it worthy to share with all of you. He is greatly missed. If you never had the chance to see Morphine live, or want to relive the experience, buy this cd, turn the lights down low, close your eyes, crank up the volume and experience the power and magic that was Morphine! Cheers, Alan



3. Morphine's Bootleg: Detroit is a textbook example of how not to assemble a live album: Take a fairly average performance; record it with second-rate equipment; do not eliminate any of the lead singer's banter, no matter how tiresome, mummbly and hackneyed ("Thank you very much, Detroit, Michigan. We're happy to be here") and leave almost half of the disc blank (Don't be fooled by the fact that Bootleg: Detroit contains eighteen tracks. Every instrumental prelude and piece of banter is considered a selection. The album is eleven songs and only forty minutes). Diehard Morphine fans who may already possess a stack of better, actual bootlegs of the band's shows, should be disappointed by Bootleg: Detroit and neophytes can certainly find better examples of the band's slinky night-rock than this murky recording of a sub par concert.



4. BUY IT!!! If you like Morphine, or kinda like Morphine, or have never even heard of Morphine, buy it. You won't be dissapointed. There are no bad songs on the album. It even has the onstage banter with the crowd. There are few bands that have been able to accomplish what Morphine has. With only 3 musicians in the band the have been able to create a huge sound and with great diversity. Mark (rest in peace) Sandman is a master with the great art of composition. With such talented musicians they have been able to create a sound like no other. And this "LIVE" album showcases their great ability and beautiful art. BUY IT!!!



5. Good smattering of Morphine -- gives you the flavor of a live Detroit performance. Not as polished as a studio track though, so if that bothers you you might want to think twice. Personally, I think it's pretty good.

5 comments about Minimum-Maximum.

1. There is something inherently prosaic in this dead dull "music of der future". Fortunately, man has still some sense of individualism, but barely, and Kraftwerk's fascist goal for music has not rendered vocals obsolete. Listening to this, it harkens back to the techno geek 1970's when Germans laden in neo-fascist uniforms with thin ties and a pound of grease on their hair, showed no emotion on stage, acting like machines. Most of them wore leather pants so tight that they froze while playing, hence the dumb and inarticulate Krautbot look. They copied architecture chic from the 1930's, added some 70's porn montage and called it "modern" 1970's and praised the revolution of robots and computers. Not only is that very idea horrifying, but it is also silly. "Kraftwerk" means "cheese plant" in German and they are very cheesy.
   
   The CD is probably one of the most horrible things I've listened to. If you can get to the end of it, you'll find all sorts of unwanted electronic noise, Krautbot voice dubs, electro fuzz, beeps, computer konks, repugnant computer-generated vocals, static, repulsive synthesizers, and extremely unpleasant clamor that goes on forever, that you'll soon be reaching for a hammer to crush the CD. In my estimation, all crap. A few American bands at the time tried the stale trend with deadly results, Gary Numan The Pleasure Principle (1979), Styx Kilroy Was Here (1983) , both tossed their careers away because of it.
   
   You'll be reminded of foolish telephone companies, lumbering computer screens, electronic wires, gay 70's discos, and moronic techno cabarets in smelly, dark German cellars. This is the 2nd album by these Krautbots in 28 years, so be glad their production output has ceased. So, unless you're a nerd or have little taste in music, forget this stuff ever existed.



2. After all these years, the live Minimum-Maximum might be the best way to listen to Kraftwerk's Music... If not the fact that the German accent of Ralf Hütter in Enclish lyrics got polished out, taking away some character. Too smooth operators.



3. How to sum it up in a few words? Well here's a short attempt:
   
   1) The sound is amazing. If you listen to this through a decent system, you will be blown away at the production quality.
   
   2) I assume you have heard these songs and this group before, so I won't go into detail on the song-writing. If you don't know this group, then you are in for a treat!
   
   3) One of the big points of mystery is "who does what?" Meaning, what things are actually being played versus what things are sequenced or taped. Well, I don't think this matters much more than a curiosity. It is them, their songs, and their product. Sit back and enjoy the show.
   
   4) Speaking of the show. . . In case you don't know, KW are not known for their dynamic performances, especially lately. You would never know by just listening that Ralf und Florian are in their 60s. . . but, you can certainly tell by the stoic body language and virtually NO interaction with the crowd. I don't feel this detracts from the performance in any way. But, I think it is fair to tell you not to expect a dancefest by them onstage.
   
   That's all for now. I LOVE both the CD and DVD of this and have watched/listened repeatedly since I bought it. I recommend it for all lovers of Kraftwerk, and for anyone interested in learning more about them.
   
   Hint: 1st time listener? I recommend "The Model" "Numbers" and "Computerworld" as well as "Pocket Calculator." Don't get me wrong, they are all great. . . one of my other favorites is "Elektrocardiogramm." Ok, enough of my yakking. Get to it!



4. Punchy live recordings of Kraftwerk's best known songs.
   
   The CDs are programed wisely and the songs flow from one to the other quite nicely. This makes the CDs easy to listen to.
   
   Some fans have doubts if Kraftwerk are still the leaders in electronic music, this set will ease those fears. They still have what it takes to create compelling music.
   
   They have given us vital sounding new arrangements of aging material on this set. In doing this, Kraftwerk is giving long time fans value. And showing newer fans how a legendary band is able to adapt without losing their vision. And finaly they are showing everyone how a teacher learns from the student. To be a good teacher, one must be able to adapt and progress with the changing times. This is what Kraftwerk has done on this release.



5. A pivotal, amazing, extraordinary, pioneering electronic group such as Kraftwerk does not have a "greatest hits" collection. However, this really is not that saddening since it forces the interested buyer into purchasing their brilliant classic albums (Trans-Europe Express, Autobahn, etc.) like they should. However, for the timid person this CD is out there. The live versions of the song are studio-quality and since Kraftwerk plays everything post-Autobahn live then this functions as a "best-of". For longtime fans, this is great because it includes newer tracks from the Tour de France Soundtracks and great renditions of their older tunes.

5 comments about Anodyne.

1. 2.50 out of 5 stars.
   
   Lyrics look good on paper but, are hurt by a solid mediocre voice with a faux southern accent I could do without. The vocals could have been more like the familiar Indie-hipster-rock-nasal-geek-Muppet voices used so often in groups The lyrics and music often sound like a Yankees' interpretation of a music he (they) never really knew by not living in The South. The players know their instruments and the clichés and play them as if learned in a class. I really don't get the punk influence I heard of much. They do often sound Indie-rock. I also have not responded well to Gram Parsons. After hearing artists like Emmylou Harris, who turned out an incredible rock/country LP "The Wrecking Ball", and possibly the real first alt-country artist, Mickey Newbury, who used a large palate of beautiful compositions on par with The Beatles, it's hard to be impressed by the "Alt" of Tupelo or Gram. I also like Lyle Lovett more than those "innovators".
   The two albums I checked out are "Anthology" and "Anodyne", Anthology being difficult to get through twice. The 3rd attempt was played as a background to sitting on the back porch but, my wife made me turn it off half way through track 2! I can't get beyond the fake accent and the overly "sittin'-on-the-front-porch" feel to nearly every song. Pat your hands softly and sip a PBR. There is not enough oomph to any of the tracks and just not any staying power for me, save the stale cliché of a song overstated and over....
   The last half of "Anodyne" felt glummer. I have to say that at most was a little more pure. Still, it does not have the emotional impact or beauty of a fairly comparable artist, Mark Kozelek, also of the beloved Red House Painters.



2. I discovered Son Volt and Wilco in the last year or so and really love both of them. My appreciation for the two spinoff groups led me to Uncle Tupelo, and everything I read said Anodyne was THE Uncle Tupelo album -- so I was excited to get it.
   
   Anodyne is a really solid album; it's very easy to listen to the whole thing and there are no bad songs. But it didn't quite match up to the high (probably unreasonable) expectations I had for it. The album is a little more country-ish/less alt-ish than I had hoped and I don't find it quite as interesting as some of the Wilco/Son Volt albums.
   
   But I'm clearly biased by my perspective. I came to this album backwards and I'm not a huge country fan. Still, I recommend Anodyne for anyone who loves their alt country with a little more country. And I think it's the type of album that will really grow on listerners after a paying it a half-dozen or so times.



3. Depending on what dictionary you use, you'll find different defintions for the word "anodyne."
   One says "anodyne" means "a cure for all depression."
   Another says it means "soothing, calming."
   Another: "a medicine that relieves pain."
   It can be a noun, or an adjective.
   In all these definitions, it fits this album perfectly. This, Uncle Tupelo's last (and best) album together, "Anodyne," will cure those depressed by a lack of beautiful music, it will soothe and calm those who have wasted their time on music less melodious and less mournful, and will relieve the pain of those who have their hearts broken with no one to tell their sorrows to.
   This album is full of songs of struggle and longing, hopefulness and the feeling of being betrayed, acceptance and resignation. The cover version of "Give Back the Key to My Heart" will lodge itself in your brain for weeks. "New Madrid" with its banjoish, country road, "Driving on 9" type of feel will make you rush to your car keys and out the door, slamming the screen door behind you. And "No Sense In Lovin'," with its lilting steel guitar and walloping lyrics will reaffirm your suspicion that Jeff Tweedy is among the greatest songwriters of all time. (It has to be Uncle Tupelo's best song.)
   "There's no sense in lovin'
   Anyone
   Who hates themself."
   This is the last album of a great band full of great musicians. Listening to it, one is filled simultaneously with the sadness that this band may never play together again and a joyful knowledge of the great music that both of this band's main songwriters (Jeff Tweedy of Wilco and Jay Farrar of Son Volt) would go on to write on their own.
   I love this album. (My daughter's NAME is Anodyne. Seriously.) You can listen to this album when you're happy, or when you're sad, and they'll be something in it for you no matter what.
   It's alt.country at its best.
   It's MUSIC at its best.
   It's GREAT.



4. The item arrived promptly and in better condition than promised. THANK YOU!



5. Anodyne catches Uncle Tupelo at their zenith. At that moment when a band realizes their potential just before the wheels come off. Each of these songs have much too offer. "Acuff-Rose", "We've Been Had", the Doug Sahm cover "Give Back the Key to My Heart" are the highlights of a cd full of gems. Buy this record, turn it to 11, pour a glass of bourbon of your choice, and become a part of the greatest American alt-country band doing what they do best.