4 comments about Billboard Top 10 Karaoke, Vol. 2.

1. I think this is a great karaoke package. I hate that I always have to buy several single C.D.'s just to get one good song on one, then another one or two good songs on another c.d. This package has a good variety for everyone and the price was right. I don't think that it is that big of a deal that the original artists are not the actual singers because we generally sing over them anyway, which is pretty much the idea of karaoke anyway! I would recommend it, have FUN!!



2. I believe a good Karaoke disc must contained well-played music. It's because beautiful music will make you want to sing and dance. I bought one pack of CD-G with the brand "Billboard top 10 Karaoke". After that I found out it was made by the company called partytyme karaoke.
   
   I bought 2 Karaoke dics made by Party tyme from the local Walmart. The music played on those CD+G and DVDs are bad. They're not close to the one played by the original band. I can tell they're peformed by amateurs whose music skills are below average.
   
   There are companies that make very good CD+G karaoke dics such as Pocket songs, Chartbuster, Priddis, Sunfly, etc. When you listen to these discs, you just want to sing and dance because the music is so close to the one played by origninal artists. The trouble is Amazon does not carry these brands. Why? I don't know. However, you can buy them from on-line stores such as dbkaraoke dot com. Their service is quick and user-friendly especially when you're asking questions. The best store, I believe is singerschoice dot ca. They're in Toronto, Canada. Their collection is huge. They have dics imported from Britain too! When I travelled there, I found out they let their customers LISTEN to ALL the dics BEFORE BUYING. As a result, I am completely satisfied with all the 10 discs I bought.
   I've never seen a store like that before.



3. I gave the same review for the other Billboard karaoke music. The music is not the original artists but is music "made famous by the original artist" and is only evident once you read the fine print. It seems a bit dishonest to use the Billboard Top 10 as a selling vehicle. I rated the item a 4 because the music is ok and after all it is Karaoke. Worst of all is the price--I found these at Walmart for $30.



4. Hook this up for the nephews and nieces during family get-togethers. Planning to get the other volumes as well. Works great through my player (KaraFun for PC) and having both tracks with and without vocals helps the beginners and/or children sing along.

4 comments about Hairspray (2-Disc Collector's Edition Soundtrack).

1. Hairspray is an excellent film with equally excellent music. The music, which was composed by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman is a complete knockout and the ensemble cast deliver the goods. This collector's editon features an extra disc which features a song peformed by Nikki Blonsky, which was cut from the film, entitled "I Can Wait", as well as demos of songs which did make it into the film and various other recordings specially made for this album. The CD is great value for money and any Hairspray fan will love it! The album also includes a booklet containing lyrics as well as stickers and photocards of the cast of characters. Amazing! :]



2. The Collector's Edition contains 2 discs. The first is exactly the same as the original soundtrack. The second disc contains extras from the film - outtakes and alternate recordings - fine with that as well - although some of the material is also on the DVD (I did not check all details)
   The most disapointing part however is the Karaoke Section. On the cover it promises 5 songs although on the disc are only three songs. On my edition the songs "Welcome to the 60's" and "Come so far" are not on the disc although they are featured on the index on the box.
   If you are looking for the Karaoke Version of either of these two songs - be aware and do not purchase the disc.



3. Although the music is the same as in other albums, the second CD it's a good one. It has excellent pieces played by the composers, and "You can't stop the beat" instrumental is great. Those songs neither played in the movie nor in the live musical are included here. Good pair of CDs!



4. This is the best cd ever! It SOOO much better than the original single disc version! The second disc has alot great songs. My favorite is I can wait. The only bad thing is that it doesn't have Big, Blonde and Beautiful(Reprise) Velma Only Version that is on the 2-disc dvd. Other than that it is ABSOLUTELY GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

5 comments about We're Gonna Rock - We're Gonna Roll.

1. Unbelievably wonderful and affordable compilation. The only place I've found to get so many original versions of songs that were covered by other artists. Especially the original rythm and blues version of "Tryin' to Get to You". I would recommend this to anyone and not just Roots music fanatics. This is one heck of a collection!!



2. A great box set and at very affordable price. Well worth the money and a great addition to and rock-a-billy fans collection. Lots of good info on the liner notes. Kind of like gettin' a musical history lesson!
   
   The Mean Eyed Cat
   KNON 89.3
   Dallas, Texas



3. "We're Gonna Rock - We're Gonna Roll" is an excellent audio history of how Rock & Roll came to be.
   The set is divided into four genres: R&B, DooWop, Rockabilly and finally good old early Rock & Roll.
   The tunes selected are truly representative of their era and genre (with the exception of the rockabilly CD which leans more towards hillbilly swing) and the sound quality is excellent.
   Also included is a highly informative liner notes booklet.
   As with all the box sets I've gotten from Proper, this set offers great music and an excellent value.



4. Trying to keep the hyperbole to a minimum is darn near impossible when the topic is the superlative (oops--there I go!) box set, WE'RE GONNA ROCK - WE'RE GONNA ROLL. Five stars simply aren't enough to grade this collection-- its that good!
   
   There are 118 tracks here (not 70) on 4 CDs. The discs are stored in reinforced paper sleeves, each cover is uniquely illustrated. A 67 page booklet is included; this contains photos and plenty of details on each song. There's also a color catalog from PROPER records to tempt you with many of their fine box sets. All this is packaged in a box that looks like it could barely accomodate 2 CDs, let alone four, plus literature.
   
   Each CD has a theme: #1 is BLUES & RHYTHM, #2 is JUMPING & DOO WOPPING, #3 is called HILLBILLY BOPPING and the last CD is entitled IT'S ONLY ROCK 'N' ROLL.
   
   If you love rhythm & blues, rockabilly and early rock & roll, by all means . . . buy WE'RE GONNA ROCK - WE'RE GONNA ROLL. You won't regret it!
   
   PLAYLIST:
   
   DISC 1--
   (2:54) That's All Right - Arthur Crudup
   (2:51) Hound Dog - Big Mama Thornton
   (2:10) Party Girl - T-Bone Walker
   (2:28) Pledging My Love - Johnny Ace
   (2:47) Good Rockin' Tonight - Wynonie Harris
   (2:24) Mystery Train - Little Junior's Blue Flames
   (2:16) We're Gonna Rock - Cecil Gant
   (2:50) Rock And Roll - Wild Bill Moore
   (2:44) Rockin' At Midnight - Roy Brown
   (2:35) Rock The Joint - Jimmy Preston
   (3:00) Shake Rattle & Roll - Big Joe Turner
   (2:30) Rock And Roll - Laverne Ray
   (2:53) Why Do You Waste My Time - Tiny Grimes
   (2:34) Shake Holler & Run - John Lee Hooker
   (2:41) I Need You I Want You - Jack The Bear Parker
   (2:04) Teenage Baby - T-Bone Walker
   (2:28) Rockin' With Red - Piano Red
   (2:46) Train Kept A-Rollin' - Tiny Bradshaw
   (2:51) I Got A Woman - Ray Charles
   (2:51) Hey Little Girl - Billy Wright
   (2:39) Let's Rock A While - Amos Milburn
   (2:35) I Wanna Know (What Cha Doin' Down There) - Dolly Cooper
   (2:37) The Fat Man - Fats Domino
   (2:47) Bee's Boogie - Smiley Lewis
   (2:32) Lawdy Miss Clawdy - Lloyd Price
   (3:15) Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee - Stick McGhee
   (2:26) Country Girl - Dave Bartholomew
   (3:07) The Hucklebuck - Paul Williams
   (2:39) We're Gonna Rock We're Gonna Roll - Wild Bill Moore
   
   DISC 2--
   (2:32) 60 Minute Man - The Dominoes
   (3:08) Ting A Ling - The Clovers
   (2:54) Gloria - The Cadillacs
   (2:07) Hold Me! Squeeze Me! - The Orioles
   (2:38) Hearts Of Stone - The Jewels
   (2:25) Mama (Your Daughter Told A Lie On Me) - The Five Keys
   (2:30) Mary Lee - The Rainbows
   (2:51) Can't Do Sixty No More - The Du-Droppers
   (2:39) Never - The Dundees
   (2:46) Rock Me All Night Long - The Ravens
   (2:31) Such A Night - The Drifters
   (3:05) A Thousand Stars - The Rivileers
   (2:09) Ling Ting Tong - The Five Keys
   (2:56) Earth Angel - The Penguins
   (2:29) One Minute Julep - The Clovers
   (2:30) Ooh Baby - The Teardrops
   (2:25) Honey Love - The Drifters
   (2:54) Shoo Doo Be Doo - Bobby Lester & the Moonlighters
   (2:30) No Help Wanted - The Crows
   (2:34) Fool Fool Fool - The Clovers
   (2:37) Trying To Get To You - The Eagles
   (2:45) My Loving Baby - The El Dorados
   (2:06) Bounce - The Spaniels
   (2:30) Sexy Ways - The Midnighters
   (2:36) Boot 'Em Up - The Du-Droppers
   (2:46) Bip Bam - The Drifters
   (2:51) Roll Roll Pretty Baby - The Swallows
   (3:05) She Rocks - The Cardinals
   (2:43) Lovey Dovey - The Clovers
   
   DISC 3--
   (2:46) Move It On Over - Hank Williams
   (2:51) I'm Movin' On - Hank Snow
   (2:46) Birmingham Bounce - Hardrock Gunter
   (2:41) Tennessee Saturday Night - Red Foley
   (2:14) Tennessee Jive - Johnny Horton
   (2:43) Rompin' & Stompin' - Curtis Gordon
   (2:22) TT Boogie - Charlie Adams
   (2:17) Blue Ribbon Boogie - Chuck Murphy;
   (2:27) Oakie Boogie - Jack Guthrie
   (2:33) Juke Joint Mama - Jimmy Swan
   (2:30) Hot Rod Race - Arkie Shibley
   (2:33) Hot Rod Mama - Jimmy Dolan
   (2:19) Too Old To Cut The Mustard - The Carlisles
   (2:33) I Ain't Nothin' But A Tom Cat's Kitten - Wayne Raney
   (2:53) The Band's A-Rockin' - Johnnie Lee Wills
   (2:44) Slick Chick Boogie - Porky Freeman
   (2:13) White House Blues - Bill Monroe
   (2:11) Juke Joint Johnny - Lattie Moore
   (2:16) Sally Let Your Bangs Hang Down - Maddox Bros & Rose
   (2:43) Sugarfoot Rag - Hank Garland & His Sugar Footers
   (3:24) Guitar Boogie - Arthur 'Guitar Boogie' Smith
   (2:31) The Nashville Jump - Chet Atkins
   (2:11) Stratosphere Boogie - Jimmy Bryant
   (2:11) Don't Drop It - Terry Fell
   (2:08) Good Deal Lucille - Moon Mullican
   (2:24) Louisiana Swing - Bud Hobbs
   (2:46) Louisiana Boogie - Merle Travis
   (2:11) Wild Cattin' Woman - Lee Bonds
   (2:41) Hound Dog - Betsy Gay
   (2:36) There's A Leak In This Old Building - Brother Claude Ely
   
   DISC 4--
   (2:51) Rocket 88 - Jackie Brenston
   (2:40) Rockin' Is Our Bizness -The Treniers
   (2:46) Work With Me Annie - The Midnighters
   (2:13) Gee - The Crows
   (2:26) Sh-Boom - The Chords
   (2:48) Love Me - Willy & Ruth
   (2:59) Riot In Cell Block #9 - The Robins
   (2:40) Crazy Man Crazy - Bill Haley and the Comets
   (2:43) Please Don't Leave Me - Fats Domino
   (1:55) Rock The Joint - Jimmy Cavallo
   (2:21) The House Of The Blue Lights - Merrill E. Moore
   (2:23) Gonna Dance All Night - Hardrock Gunter
   (2:42) There's Gonna Be A Ball - Rudy Grayzell
   (2:04) Blue Moon Of Kentucky - Elvis Presley
   (2:23) My Sweet French Baby - Jimmy Logsdon
   (2:13) My Gal Gertie - Dub Dickerson
   (2:20) Real Rock Drive - Bill Haley and the Comets
   (1:56) I Love You Madly - Charlie & Ray
   (2:32) Shake Rattle And Roll - Bill Haley and the Comets
   (3:02) Money Honey - The Drifters
   (2:43) Blue Monday - Smiley Lewis
   (3:10) Tweedle Dee - LaVern Baker
   (2:54) Teardrops From My Eyes - Ruth Brown
   (2:30) Such A Night - Bunny Paul
   (2:17) Rock A Beatin' Boogie - The Treniers
   (2:53) Shake A Hand - Faye Adams
   (2:40) Honey Hush - Big Joe Turner
   (2:55) Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean - Ruth Brown
   (1:57) That's All Right - Elvis Presley
   (2:13) Rock Around The Clock - Bill Haley and the Comets



5. Any collection that starts with Arthur Crudup's "That's All Right Mama" and ends with Elvis's version, and then "Rock Around the Clock" as its finale has something to offer. This is an encyclopedic view of where rock and roll came from, and there are a lot of suprises no matter what you think you know. The real plus is, it's more than just a catalog; this is one of the most entertaining collections I've ever bought. I especially like the "Hillbilly Bopping" set, which builds on the four-disc Proper Records box, "Hillbilly Boogie". Great music for the car.

5 comments about Perception.

1. If you are a Doors fan/lover, then this box set will easily satisfy you. I do prefer some of their other versions to some songs, but most everything else was right on. It was worth the price, and Amazon did a great job on the gift wrap. It was a memorable birthday present for my girlfriend, and even better for me since she moved in. Now we share this great Doors collection.



2. If you are a Doors' fan then this is a new way of listening to them. Out takes and new versions of old favorites.



3. The DVDs do have DVD-Audio (MLP) 24bit 96khz 5.1 tracks for every song.
   
   I couldn't find this info before ordering (Amazon is not very good at properly describing hi-res audio products).



4. if you own a high end audio system w a dvd-audio player this set is a must have for any doors fan.the 5.1 versions are smokin hot, the 1st album not so much probably due to the quality of the original tapes but by the time you get to break on through or wishful sinful you will be weak in the knees, la woman is the same release that was independant some years ago with the kickoff of the dvd-a medium. but the collection is well worth it if you are an audiophile, the other reviews that tell you to purchase the old packages obviously do not have dvd-a players



5. Without getting into all the technical points of this boxed set, this boxed set sounds awesome. Liner notes are outstanding. A must for the Doors fan. This is all you need!

5 comments about One Nite Alone...Live!.

1. he doesn't sing alone. he feels the feelings of the public. or is it the public who feels his feelings?



2. If you've ever seen Prince Live- YOU GOTTA PEEP THIS ONE! I'm a collector of Prince music and memorabilia- If U are... U gotta own this! LYNCHMOBB69



3. For better or for worse, the man still has not changed much in the 22 years that I have been a fan of his. I still see that his concerts go big on the most recent material (i.e. things he has with a new album) while alot of the oldies are glossed over and played for about 15 seconds (enough just to get one refrain in):(
   I swear to you, this box set is sorta the same old thing you can expect from this man. I paid $50.00 for this and got three CD's worth of music (some great, some so-so and some just overly long stuff) You mostly pay $25.00 for the music and $ 25.00 for the box itself with the booklet inside! I almost feel the rube but I am willing to give this a second chance. So far, not so pleased though:
   
   Prince is a brilliant genius. What can you say he loves to jam. And in one of the CD's "It AINT over", there the man is playing "Girls & Boys". Which come to think of it is almost 8 minutes of him & his band and the only reason this is considered "Girls & Boys" is because the chant of "I love you baby, I love you so much" is said by the audience at the beginning of the song! How is that "Girls & Boys??!?? I love that song, but with no Eric Leeds onstage with him, that song is NEVER to be played! The same treatment is given to "Peach" ANOTHER great song which leaves U thinking "What the hell..?" Prince obviously dances to the beat of his own drummer. Lol And so it goes on.
   The second CD has alot of Prince just doing his regular "slow jams" melodies and I swear you will think because you see on the CD listing for "Diamonds & Pearls" and "Do me Baby" but get ready for just 20 seconds of each song (thus, that is considered long enough for a track listing (???)) Then get ready to hear yet another over-long rendition of "Nothing Compares 2 U" and "Anna Stesia". I swear, why does he love "Nothing.." so much? It was never a hit for him! It's his song so whatever...("Adore", "The Beautiful 1's", "Take me with U" and "Raspberry Beret" are given good treatments, but "Diamonds & Pearls", "Free", "Do me Baby" and "Starfish & Coffee" are given the bum-rush jobs)
   Obviously, as always the man wants people to know his newer material "Muse 2 the Pharoah", "1+1+1 is 3", "Everlasting Now", "Avalanche" et al are all mostly played their entire length. That's fine, but don't be SO impatient to run through your catalogue so fast that certain songs (new or old) suffer from BEING TOO SHORT!!!!! He USED to take his time with his songs when the concerts were simpler (think Controversy tour 1981), when "Purple Rain" hit, the concerts became more rushed in my opinion.
   
   Save the $50. This set has bad false advertising, plus it's from a period of time where Prince's "Hero" Larry Graham got too much stage time. (I thought Sonny T was Prince's hero???)



4. Very hot, at times experimental, incredible muscicianship, and flat out funky songs! A great package, and worth every penny.



5. One Nite Alone...Live! delivers rich funk, smooth jazz and powerful rock! Maceo Parker, Rhonda Smith, John Blackwell, Renato Neto join Prince in this amazing 3 disc live recording. From the opening track "Rainbow Children" to the final track "Everlasting Now" you'll be transported to another planet! Song like Rainbow Children, 1+1+1=3, The Beautiful Ones, Joy in Repetition, Take Me With U, Do Me Baby deliver the album. Amazing collection of material that will please the new fans as well as the old ones. Overall, Prince - One Nite Alone...Live! is truly one of the greatest live recordings out there! This album will not disappoint! Solid live material, beautiful music/vocals, over 30+ songs are presented. Will make a great addition to your Prince collection!

5 comments about Pandemonium Shadow Show/Aerial Ballet/Aerial Pandemonium Ballet.

1. I first heard of Nilsson from a song he did with John Lennon on Lennon's album Walls and Bridges. I later found out that the hypnotizing backing vocals on Ringo Starr's cover of "You're Sixteen" were also Nilsson's. So when I found out that Nilsson was declared the Beatles favorite singer I realized I had to check him out. This album is simply sensational all the songs show a man who loves to sing and who can sing with the best of them. Pandemonium Shadow show has the powerful and humorous "Ten little Indians" the beautiful and heartwrenching "1941", the wry and catchy "cuddly toy", the gorgeous "sleep late my lady friend" the simply genius "without Her" and the clever Beatles tributes "You Can't Do That" and "She's leaving home". These tracks are all of high quality and are sung beautifully.
   The next album Aerial Ballet starts with the fun, catchy, and unsettling "daddy's song" the adorable "Good Old Desk" the beautiful "Don't Leave Me" the thought provoking "Mr. Richland's Fav. Song" which, according to legend, was John Lennon's favorite. The legendary cover of "Everybody's Talkin'" which made Nilsson a Star and the song does not disappoint. Three Dog night also covered Nilsson's original song "One" which is both haunting and reminiscent of Paul McCartney's Rubber Soul-Revolver songs while maintaining a distinctive voice of it's own. The remix album besides being the first one in history is fun and the bonus tracks are smashing. Overall this compilation is fantastic and if I have not convinced you then I will say that this music is perfect for dating because it sets a terrific and fun mood. Thanks Nilsson for all the wonderful music!



2. 
   In 2006, after painstakingly purchasing and comparing all the Nilsson domestic, European and Japanese CD versions, I posted a review on the best-audio edition of each title. That was split between four UK, one domestic and six Japan CD's, and this CD was one of those titles.
   
   However, time and technology have marched on. In Q307, the entire Nilsson pre-1978 catalog (except "The Son Of Dracula", announced but subsequently canceled), were remastered anew and released in mini-sleeve format by BMG Japan.
   
   So, what was slightly confusing before, with all the different international and domestic versions, has now been simply resolved: In terms of the best audio available, the fifteen new BMG remasters are head-and-shoulders superior to any pre-existing Nilsson CD. While the older versions were no slouches, these new BMG's are absolutely GLORIOUS. And, finally, there's complete, matched-mastered sound through the entire catalog, in contrast to the dynamic range variations in the older releases from varying remastering schemes.
   
   In A/B comparisons between the new and older versions, it is also obvious different masters were availed of, because there are snippets of additional audio on the BMG's that never appeared elsewhere.
   
   In addition, there are now approximately seventy bonus tracks spread out through the new BMG set; demos, alternate takes, singles and non-album tracks. Only one previously-available track is not in residence on the BMG set: "Waiting", which is found only on the "Harry/Nilsson Sings Newman" UK 2-fer.
   
   If you are a true Nilsson fan, then don't delay in getting these, as all mini-sleeve releases are limited edition. It is possible, of course, that BMG will release these as less expensive jewel-case releases down the road. However, as the original Nilsson LP jackets were often wonderfully imaginative affairs, having these exact replicas only heightens the joy of ownership.
   
   Amazon only allows 10 product links per review, so below are the first ten titles. The remainder, you'll have to find on your own (TIP: look for the 2007 release date when searching):
   
   Pandemonium Shadow Show
   Aerial Ballet
   Skidoo
   Harry
   Nilsson Sings Newman
   The Point!
   Nilsson Schmilsson
   Aerial Pandemonium Ballet
   Son Of Schmilsson
   A Little Touch of Schmilsson In The Night
   P*ssy Cats
   Duit It On Mon Dei
   Sandman
   That's The Way It Is
   Knnillssonn
   
   Just in case you find this review after the `sleeve versions have sold out, here is a list of the previous best-in-audio jewel-case CD versions. I will re-post this review on each of the previous editions:
   
   Pandemonium Shadow Show/Aerial Ballet/Aerial Pandemonium Ballet (2CD) (2000) UK BMG/Camden Deluxe (catalog number) 74321 757422
   The Point (2000) UK BMG/Camden Deluxe 74321 757432
   Harry/Nilsson Sings Newman (2000) UK BMG/Camden Deluxe 74321 757442
   Schmilsson (2004) RCA 82876 572652
   Son Of Schmilsson (2000) UK BMG/Camden Deluxe 74321 757462
   A Little Touch Of Schmilsson In The Night (2002) Japan K2 BVCM-37249
   P*ssy Cats (2002) Japan K2 BVCM-37251 (the UK has one extra track not on the K2)
   Duit On Mon Dei (2002) Japan K2 BVCM-37252
   Sandman (2002) Japan K2 BVCM-37253
   That's The Way It Is (2002) Japan K2 BVCM-37254
   Knnillssonn (2002) Japan K2 BVCM-37255
   
   WHAT IS A JAPAN "MINI-LP-SLEEVE" CD?
   
   Have you ever lamented the loss of one of the 20th Century's great art forms, the 12" vinyl LP jacket? Then "mini-LP-sleeve" CD's may be for you.
   
   Mini-sleeve CDs are manufactured in Japan under license. The disc is packaged inside a 13.5MM X 13.5MM cardboard-sleeve, precision-miniature replica of the original classic vinyl-LP album. Also, everything else packaged with the original LP is precisely replicated and included, such as gatefolds, booklets, lyric sheets, posters, printed LP sleeves, stickers, embosses, special LP cover paper/inks/textures and die cuts. An English-language lyric sheet is also included, even if the original LP did not have printed lyrics.
   
   Then, there's the sonic quality: Often (but not always), mini-sleeves have Japan-dedicated remastering (20-Bit, 24-Bit, DSD, K2 or K2HD, and/or HDCD), and can often (but not always) be superior to the audio on the same title anywhere else in the world. There also may be bonus tracks unavailable elsewhere.
   
   Each Japan mini-sleeve has an "OBI" ("oh-bee"), a Japan-language promotional strip. The OBI often also lists the original album's release date, the Japan street date of that particular disc, the catalog number, and mastering info. Bonus tracks are always only listed on the OBI, maintaining the integrity of the original LP artwork.
   
   The enthusiasm of mini-sleeve collecting must be tempered, however, with avoiding fake copies of Japan `sleeves manufactured in Russia and distributed throughout the world, primarily on eBay. They are inferior in quality, worthless in collectable value, a total waste of money, and should be avoided at all costs.
   
   Also, there are older Japan mini-sleeve releases that have been supplanted with newer ones, usually with updated audio (such as JVC-Japan replacing older K2-mastered titles with new K2HD mastered releases).
   
   All mini-sleeve releases are limited edition, but re-pressings/re-issues are becoming more common with some of the Japanese companies (but, again, not always). Mini-sleeve collecting can get expensive quickly, so, if you're a novice, it is highly advisable to seek the advice of an experienced `sleeve collector!



3. Harry Nilsson entered in my life about a couple of years ago and God, I just don't knew what I was losing!!! I firstly bought a twenty-two-tracks-best-of, but rapidly I was delighted and got his records in single cd's...But I was mad to find his first two, "Pandemonium Shadow Show" and "Aerial Ballet" and only this compilation could satisfy my true desire!! I must say that the sound of this Camden Deluxe is not the clearest, but damn that, I was so happy (and moved) in hear this beautiful songs of a superlative composer/singer, I think too (and shamelly!) underrated...
   Well, we can forget, for moments, the remix-album "Aerial Pandemonium Ballet" (seems it was the "first" remix-album, chronologically!) that came with this edition, it's only a experted reworking of some songs of both albuns, with a couple of good ideas...In fact, I'll give all the money for the bonus-tracks, everyone of higher quality, not deserving the second-hand interest. "As I wander Lonely" (hey, is it Divine Comedy!??), "Miss Butter's Lament" and "Wasting My Time" are prime-Harry Nilsson moving songs, with that peculiar melancholic tenderness. And "Sister Marie" a bit appart with a much more acid arrangement (dubbed keyboards?).
   But first cd is a masterpiece, both of records being a perfect collection of songs...Harry Nilsson is so inventive in his solid musical ground, playing with a dozen of recording possibilities, just in time with the masters Beatles, certainly his great influence. It's not saying that he was the nearest american-clone of Lennon-McCartney (like a Janus statue!), no, he just deserves a great place in musical pantheon and be recognized by the masses!!
   What we could say about the intrepid rhythm of "Ten Little Indians" with intriguing nursery-rhyme lyrics; the truly sentimental beauty of "1941" (delicious harmonium and trombone!) and "Sleep Late, My Lady Friend" (gorgeous, gorgeous!) or the happy-erotic keyboard (with Nilsson's comment "Oh, beautiful") of "Cuddly Toy"??? Say nothing, just give a thousand listens and bring joy to our life!!
   The two covers here are quite great, in fact I think "She's Leaving Home" surpasses the original, more rich in details (magic tablas here!); "River Deep-Mountain High" is not so "Spectoresque" but it works in dramatic pulsation...
   Nilsson is simply gorgeous in love songs, giving only the essential, sometimes with a sad regret and disappointment, like in "There Will Never Be" (a lonely dance), "It's Been So Long" and "Without Her", the latter one the most perfect whispered love song (great flute!), the true loneliness without indulgence...In another hand, he chose happy counterpoints in the ragtime approach of "Freckles" or the extraordinary meddle of Beatles work "You Can't Do That"...
   "Aerial Ballet" is a kind of second chapter to "Pandemonium...", some more of magnificient crafted songs in an ecclectic manner (Nilsson's scat is a copyright!), so distinctive and not a single moment dated!! Truly masterpieces here are "Don't Leave Me" (another touching love song! Notice the superlative last scat!), "Together" (probably his second best song!!Impeccable!!), "I Said Goodbye To Me" (superb bass backing vocals!) and all the last four tracks!! More commercial-oriented hits like "Mr.Richland's Favorite Song" and "Everybody's Talkin'" aren't also easy listening.
   "Mr.Tinker" is a deep social meditation of a lonely person; "One" is probably Nilsson's best song (beautiful lamenting cello at the middle section) and "The Wailing of the Willow" is that late-sixties new thing called "bossa-nova" so softly inspired in Nilsson's hands!! "Bath" is a remarkable shouting farewell...And then go straight to bonus tracks again, the remix-album is just a interesting variation, this edition is an essential one!!!!



4. This is an irresistible package for anyone tracing (or revisiting) Harry Nilsson's sadly under-rated and neglected catalogue.

   The "Pandemonium Shadow Show" album is a 1967 charmer, introducing Nilsson's unique and brilliant singing/songwriting talents. It features classics like "1941" and "Without Her". It could be accused of being overly in the thrall of the Beatles, but that would be to deny the charm of "You Can't Do That", which manages to cram much of the Beatles stylistic repertoire into one arrangement. At least he's wearing it on his sleeve. This playfulness remained one of Nilsson's many endearing characteristics.

   The "Aerial Ballet" album is a real revelation; an achievement on equal terms with the Beatles, rather than standing in their shadow. With only one non-original song on the album ("Everybody's Talkin'", the one Nilsson song I guess everyone's familiar with), the strength of the songwriting ("Good Old Desk", "I Said Goodbye To Me", "One", etc) would stand alone even without the often breathtaking vocal performances. Most of the songs dissolve into Nilsson's inimitable "scat" vocalising in the final verse, which adds a level of poignancy and poetry beyond language. Running out of lyrics was an opportunity for such a talent! The vocal multilayering is very effective, and, I guess, technically advanced for its time.

   The "Aerial Pandemonium Ballet" remix album is an interesting addition for the sake of completion. It was more successful saleswise than the original two albums, but I find myself sticking more with the original versions of the songs.
   The bonus tracks are all very worthwhile, particularly the spine-tingling "Wasting My Time".

   The sound quality appears to be fine, although I have my doubts about the "remastering" on these BMG reissues. I have nothing to compare "PSS" and "AB" to, but the reissue of "The Point" (double with "Skidoo") sounds markedly inferior to my original CD of that album.
   Now, speaking of reissues, what about the post "Pussycats" albums?




5. The original mastertapes were in shambles. When BMG went back to Harry's original masters for his first two albums for the Personal Best Anthology they found that the tapes needed tender loving care to bring out the best sound. Like lots of recordings from the same time frame, the tapes hadn't aged well.

   This 2 disc set gets things right. Yes, there is still a significant amount of hiss but, trust me on this, it's better than having BMG reissue these classics using sonic solutions no noise (which was used on the Badfinger reissues from Apple--it's one of the reasons they sound so bad).

   Of the three albums included here APB sounds the best. Harry went back and remixed many of these tracks reducing many of the overdubs and, hence, improving the sound quality in many cases. Fans should note, however, that the bonus tracks on APB here are different from those found on the US edition.

5 comments about Fifty Years: The Artistry Of Tony Bennett (5CD).

1. Aside from Frank Sinata, no greater singer has carved a niche in the collective soul of American popular music than Tony Bennett. For over 50 years, the man who entered this world as Anthony Benedetto has given us some of the best and most beloved recordings of timeless songs that to this day help define our deepest emotions and most important moments in our lives.
   
   This 5 disc collection is a magnificent introduction into the world of Tony Bennett, containing some of the most beautifully interpretted renditions of our most cherished standards by great writers such as The Gershwins, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern and other legends of the craft.
   
   Discs 1 and 2 chronicle Bennett's rise to stardom in the early 1950s' to mid 1960s'. Tony proved to be a force of nature right from his first single release, "The Boulevard Of Broken Dreams," which still sounds as fresh and soulful as it did 54 years ago. Throughout the rest of the 1950s', Tony scored a string of hit singles that went on to become defining numbers in the Great American Songbook, including "Because Of You," (a wedding perennial), "Cold, Cold Heart" (a country hit for Hank Williams that Tony helped introduce to the pop world), "Blue Velvey," the timeless "Rags To Riches," "Sing You Sinners" and many other classic hits that he still does to this day.
   
   Also from this classic era are lesser known but eqqually excellent albums such as "While The Music Plays On," the splendid "Ca, C'est Amour," the gorgeous "Lazy Sunday," "I Get A Kick Out Of You," (perhaps the only version that rivals Sinatra's defintive 1953 rendition), a magnificent "September Song" and a swingin' "Lullabye Of Broadway" with Count Basie.
   
   The 1960s' continued to bare more fruit for Tony, including classics such as "The Best Is Yet To Come," "Tender The Night," "Once Upon A Time," the stinging "I Wanna Be Around," and the lush "The Good Life." It was during this period of productivty he cut what to me, are his two best songs.
   
   The first is "I Left My Heart San Francisco," his 1962 hit and (deservedly) his most popular song, a melancholy slice of vintage Americana sung so passionately by Tony against a gloriously understated and utterly breathtaking Grammy winning arrangement by Marty Manning.
   
   The other would be "When Joanna Loved Me," which ranks alongside Sinatra's "I've Got You Under My Skin" and Darin's "Mack The Knife" as one of the most perfect recordiings in American history, a song that represents pure human emotion at its most raw and honest. Tony's singing on this song is sincere and heartbreaking, and remain so to this day.
   
   Discs 3 and 4 mark a period of transition and eventually resurrection for Tony. By the mid 1960s', Tony's appeal began to dwindle, as hit singles had begun to dry up. He still cut quite a few certified classics (among them "Smile," "The Very Thought Of You," "For Once In My Life," and his personal favorite recrding, "I Do Not Know A Day I Did Not Love You"), but by the early 1970s', the music world wasn't as kind to Tony commercially. Artistically, however, Tony was still capable of churning out some excellent music. His collaboration with Bill Evans yielded such gems as "My Foolish Heart" and "But Beautiful," and he turned in a magnificent performance of the "Cabaret" classic "Maybe This Time."
   
   By 1986, Tony had mounted a very successful comeback with "The Art Of Excellence," which yielded his beautiful performance of "How Do You Keep The Music Playing" and the playful and seductive "What Are You Afraid Of." His newfound sreak of good luck continuted with his Irving Berlin tribute, which yielded the beautiful "I Got Lost In Her Arms" and a haunting a capella take on "When I Lost You." Tony also scored a latter day classic with the beautiful "When Do The Bells Ring For Me."
   
   Disc 5 chronicles Tony's 1990s' revival, when he helped introduce the wonderfuls tandrards of the past to a new generation and connected with young listeners and contemporary entertainers. Tony added yet another classic to his reusme with the Fred Astaire tribute "Steppin' Out With My Baby," and teamed with contemporary artists such as Diana Krall ("Alright, O.K., You Win"), B.B. King ("Let The Good Times Roll"), Ray Charles (the amazin' "Evenin'"), and two wonderful duets with k.d. lang ("La Vie En Rose" and "What A Wonderful World"). This disc is an excellent overview of his later years up to today, and Tony is still very much alive, well and performing.
   
   This boxed set contains a superb booklet filled with great essays and rare photographs. The boxed set is affordable and the sound quality is superb. Do yourself a favor and purchase this magnificent collection as soon as possible.



2. Fifty Years: The Artistry of Tony Bennett
   My mother in law LOVED this gift. Had it shipped to her location for Christmas with no problem, and in perfect condition!



3. This boxset is a great start for someone just discovering or long-time fan who wants a great overview of Tony's career on CD, what I love about this set is that features songs that showcase Tony as the Jazz singer, it does feature alot of pop standards but Tony swings on those too! and the ballads are just beautiful!
   and the sound quality of this boxset is awesome!



4. Tony Bennett has always moved me with His voice. from the time I was a child through now His Voice has always been on point to me."I Left my Heart in San Francisco" is still One of My all time Favorite Songs.I dig how He uses His Vocal Tone on Tracks&Keeps things cool.TB has always kept it cool on whatever Project he was working on.



5. Essentially, this IS the "Forty Years" offering plus an extra CD for the past decade. Considering the plethora of gems, especially live music, that must (please God) still be available in the archives, this set is a disappointment to owners of "Forty Years". Of course, its still Tony Bennett, arguably the greatest interpreter of American popular standards, there's lots of music, and the selections are generally solid. However, the sound quality is a bit uneven at times and grossly under-represents his live contributions (shockingly, Carnegie Hall 1962 is still the only all-live generally available recording from his first three decades of output). Still, this collection is the definitive take on Mr. Bennett's musical life work to date. Tony Bennett...long may he live.

5 comments about Chrome, Smoke & BBQ: The ZZ Top Box.

1. Awesome song selection, very thourogh and just the perfect little set with loads of extras. The artwork, book and flip book are excellent.



2. I'll let all y'all fans gush - suffice to say that ZZ Top is an essential Texas band. I mainly want to refute some other comments concerning these mixes. In the 80's, the band heavily remixed their first six albums for the "Six Pack" reissue, adding massive amounts of reverb. For years, those were the standard mixes on CD reissues.
   
   These mixes are the originals - they sound clean and dynamic, with a little tape hiss audible in only the quietest parts. I owned the old CDs, so I could 'A-B' them. Check out "La Grange." When the drums kick in, it's easy to hear the absence of echo. Buy with confidence!
   
   As for the track selection, I only found one cut - "Balinese" - that will be sorely missed, and a few more - like "Apologies To Pearly," "Low Down In The Street," and "(Somebody Else Been) Shaking Your Tree" - that would have been nice. But, nothing's perfect, and those cuts are available for download.
   
   Altogether, "Chrome, Smoke & BBQ" is the one to get. Haw, haw, haw...



3. well top fans the buck stops here this repersents the best from the boys from 70 to 90. zz top has so many great tracks and albums your best of buying a compilation. so either your a.(a casual fan who just knows radio zz top). b(a pretty serious top fan from over the years who wants the hits plus all the great cuts from the albums you use to own. or your c(a hardcore top fan who want pretty much every great track they made in cluding a bunch of rarites.
   
   
   if your A you need the one cd collection greatest hits
   
   if your b you need the two cd rancho texicano hits
   
   if you c you need the 4 cd chrome smoke and bbq
   
   
   *of note is worth mentioning no matter what you buy this hits only go up to recylcer album so none of the albums they have done in recent yaers are not covered,but thats not a problem for most people. either wat its all great music and wont disappoint.



4. Great box set! Could have done without the moving sidewalks stuff. Enjoyed the included flip book! If you are an old fan looking to supplement your vinyl or a new fan looking to get up to speed...this box set is for you. The enclosed booklet also provides some history and insight into how that lil ole band from Texas came to be.



5. This set is just about as complete as you can get with just four discs. Sure a few great songs are missing but you can't have them all. As someone else stated these are NOT the "disco-mix" aka the "six-pack-sound" mixes. They are the original album mixes. I do like the "medium-rare tracks" at the end of disc four as they were new to me. One thing though, the version of Legs on this set is NOT the same version as on my Eliminator cd. The rhythm guitar (that to me defines the track)is nowhere to be heard on here. What's up with that? I've never heard this version before, it doesn't even sound like the same song.

5 comments about Rare Masters.

1. I loved this album in the late '70s and could not find it. It is a wonderful as then. There are other songs that are very good also. I think it is a GREAT CD !



2. I bought it because it was the only way I knew to get copies of the songs from the old "Friends" album (movie of same name). Don't care for any of the other songs.



3. Almost all of the b-sides and various singles included here on this collection are now available on the expanded reissues of Elton's albums. The real reason to get this is that its (as of this writing)the only place to get the "Friends" soundtrack. No, not the soundtrack to that TV show but to an obscure early 70's movie. Elton and Bernie wrote four new songs that were used in the film (although Bernie supposedly didn't read the script he only skimmed through it to get a feel for the movie). The rest of the album is filled with Paul Buckmaster's soundtrack which adapts various themes from these four songs plus a reprise of the title track. Is it worthwhile buying this just for the "Friends" soundtrack? Yes, if you're a hardcore Elton John fan because his is the only place to get the album now.
   
   If you enjoy Buckmaster's orchestrations on the early Elton John albums, then you'll enjoy every aspect of this album. If you're looking just for the songs that John and Taupin wrote, you'll still enjoy the four full performances and song reprise. Just about any of these songs musically would have fit in well on "Elton John", "Tumbleweed Connection" or "Madman Across the Water" with "Honey Roll" and "Can I Put Yon On" two great lost Elton John rockers. They would have made a fine single if they had been released separately from this album (which I believe one of them was if memory serves).
   
   We also get the singles/b-sides that were added to each Elton John album through "Tumbleweed Connection". "I've Been Loving You"/"Here's To the Next Time", "Lady Samantha"/"All Across the Havens", "It's Me That You Need", "Just Like Strange Rain", "Bad Side of the Moon", Rock & Roll Madonna", "Grey Seal" (an early version of the song from "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road")all demonstrate Elton and Bernie's developing songcraft even if they aren't always the best songs by the duo.
   
   The second disc features an outtake from "Madman Across the Water" (included on "Tumbleweed Connection"), "Into the Old Man's Shoes", "Rock me When He's Gone", "Slave" all of which appear on "Tumbleweed" or "Honkey Chateau". "Skyline Pidgeon" is a piano/vocal re-recording that appeared as a b-side from 1973 and appears along with "Jack Rabbit", "Whenever You're Ready (We'll Go Steady)" from "Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player" (although the latter two were also on the deluxe reissue of "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road"). "Screw You". "Sick City", "Step Into Christmas" and "Ho! Ho Ho" all appear on "Carbiou" as bonus tracks. "One Day At A Time" and "I Saw Her Standing There" appeared as b-sides and on "Captain Fantastic". "House of Cards", "Planes" and "Sugar on the Floor" all appear on "Rock of the Westies". Only "Let Me Be Your Car" doesn't appear anywhere else as it was written/performed as a demo for Rod Stewart who recorded it for one of his albums.
   
   The two CD set includes an oversized booklet with comments from Bernie about the genesis of each song. The mastering is pretty good overall and is done by Joseph Palmaccio before engineers started applying too much compression to make the music sound "louder" and more contemporary (and squeezing the dynamic range to death hurting the quality of the sounds you hear). I'd get it if you are an Elton John fan before it goes out of print as almost everything here is somewhere else, it's possible this is on the chopping block. So I'd give 4 stars to the best songs here from "Friends" and the stronger tracks from disc 2 with 2-3 stars for the other b-sides on the first disc and the remainder on disc 2 with an overall rating of 3 stars.



4. I purchased this SOLELY because it was the only way to get a CD version of the soundtrack to the movie "Friends". I own the LP, but searched in vain for a CD re-make. Apparently, there's no market for this in the US because this CD was not released in the US. The geniuses at the record labels strike again. Anyway, it is pricey but worth it!



5. Rare Masters is a very interesting listen for someone like me who is the ultimate Elton John fan. At one point or another, I've owned everything Elton's put out, so it's nice to have this double CD of B-sides and unreleased tracks.
   
   If you're unfamiliar with Elton's albums, there are some better choices to start with. I'd suggest, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Madman Across The Water, Rock of the Westies, or even his latest release, The Captain & The Kid, over Rare Masters. That said, if you've worn grooves in your 20 year old LP versions of the above mentioned you can't go wrong with Rare Masters.

5 comments about To Be Continued....

1. HAPPY WITH THIS BOX SET OF ELTON JOHN THE PRODUCT WAS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION LIKE NEW. AND VERY HAPPY WITH THE SELLER. DELIVERY WAS VERY FAST, GOOD SERVICE



2. 
   1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
   Nearly all you could want., 7 April 2008
   By D. Wright "davewright29" - See all my reviews
   
   
   
   
   When I was growing up - a period which coincided with Elton's rise to stardom - I wasn't a great fan of his. I liked Honkey Cat, which was nearly the first single I bought, until my mate talked me out of it because Elton wasn't cool, so I bought Take Me Bak Ome by Slade instead! That was essentialy what we felt was wrong with Elton at the time - he wasn't really a rocker. Crocodile Rock and Saturday Night's All Right For Fighting (which always sounded a bit silly when sung by someone patently not tough like Elton! Bit more appropriate when the Who did it, as Roger Daltrey was a fighter!) weren't really rock in the sense that Led Zep or Deep Purple were, whilst there were also too many soppy ballads for teenage boys.
   However when I became an adult I bought a greatest hits album and started collecting the early 70's classics when they were remastered in the 90's. It was only after I began playing them again a couple of years ago that I realised actually how good and varied Elton's music was. I was then inspired to investigate his later material, which apart from the obvious hits had always passed me by. So it is from this perspective that I come to this box set.
   
   The first thing that strikes the listener about Elton John is how incredibly prolific he was. Probably only Dylan, Van Morrison and Neil Young have produced as much music and they have all been recording longer. This inevitably means that there is a good deal of inconsistency. And there is little doubt that, like Bowie at the time, he produced some poor albums in the 80's. However there were exceptions. Too Low For Zero in 83, Made In England in 95 and the 00's albums Songs From the West Coast and The Captain and The Kid are as strong as anything he's done. But for every one of these there is a dreadful Victim of Love or a Leather Jackets. I also found Peachtree Road, the acclaimed follow up to the excellent Songs From The West Coast, just boring. So quite often a strong album is followed by a poor one.
   
   This box set contains all the hits, although a couple of them: Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me and the massively well known Candle In The Wind are not in their original versions, but are inferior live versions when Elton was struggling with his voice in the mid 80's. Therefore this box isn't suitable for people who only want all the hits as they know them. Part Time Love is also missing completely. This is a bit annoying when the awful Act Of War with Millie Jackson is included. The excellent The Club At The End Of The Street has also been left off in favour of its B side, a dreadful version of Give Peace a Chance (not a brilliant song melody wise in the first place), which is a ridiculous decision. You do get other singles which weren't hits though, such as the brilliant tribute to John Lennon, Empty Garden, (Hey Hey Johnny). This was one of John/Taupin's very best songs, but because it unnaccountably wasn't a hit is usually left off compilations. There is also another excellent flop Feel Like A Bullet in the Gun of Robert Ford, albeit again in a live version, but this time a good one. There are also four new songs to tempt fans specially recorded for the box; unfortunately none are really memorable and could have been omitted to include better songs such as Part Time Love, The Club At The End Of The Street and Burn Down The Mission.
   The booklet contains a lot of excellent photos and an interview with Elton and Bernie. There is also a commentary on his career, but because he has been so prolific it isn't as comprehensive and thorough as it could have been. For example there is no real insight into all the individual songs as you get on some box sets.
   
   It could actually be argued that the box is now somewhat redundant as most of the unreleased songs have subsequently been issued as bonus tracks on the remastered albums. Record companies seem to have a habit of doing this now: issuing a box set full of rarities then issuing those rarities on re-released albums.
   I think for someone just getting into Elton or exploring his work in the 80's you might be better buying the remastered albums, as this box set is expensive and not easy to obtain now. But for someone who wants a cross section of Elton's career up to 1990 (remember he's produced tons of music since!) and would like more than just the big hits, it is a very worthwhile purchase.



3. To Be Continued is a wonderful box set of Elton John's career. From his early demos to his late 80's songs it covers his career very well. Much of this disc focuses on his glory years of the early-mid 70's but there are also some more obscure numbers that are great additions to this collection. (such as "Bad Side of the Moon" and the live version with John Lennon of "I Saw Her Standing There").
   
   As usual with box sets, some songs are omitted. In my case I really would have liked the original studio version of "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me", one of his greatest singles ever, and the rollicking "Grow Some Funk of Your Own". Still, this collection is first rate, and for those who like box sets this is one of the better ones.



4. If you love Elton John, you will love this incredible box set! I received it as a Christmas gift years ago, when it was first released, and it has been one of my most often played CDs ever since. So many of Elton's greatest hits are here; "Empty Garden", "I Guess That's Why They Call it the Blues", "Bennie and The Jets", "Grey Seal", "Candle in the Wind" and "Your Song", they are all here and so many more... It is hours of beautiful Elton John classics all in one place. What more could an Elton fan ask for? You won't be disappointed!!!



5. I AM VERY DISSAPOINTED WITH THIS BOX SET. IT HAS ALOT OF HITS. BUT WERE DID MCA GET THE MASTERS FOR THIS SET. ON DISC 1, (2) SONGS HAVE DROP OUTS IN THE RECORDING, DANIEL IS A RUFF CUT NOT SMOOTH AS I HEARD ON A 2-TRACK MASTER DONE BY STEVE HOFFMAN. DISC 2. NOTHING TO COMPLAIN ABOUT. DISC 3. PHILADELPHIA FREEDOM AND ISLAND GIRL COULD HAVE BEEN DONE BETTER. DISC 4. IM STILL STANDING RUFF CUT, NOT SMOOTH AND ACT OF WAR, TURN IT UP LOAD DESTORTION, LIKE IT WAS,NT REMASTERED BUT MASTERED INSTEAD. I OWN A FEW MCA RECORDINGS THAT WERE REMASTERED. A FEW OF THEM DONT SOUND AS GOOD REMASTERED AS THEY SHOULD BE. IT COST MONEY TO GET A PERFECT SOUND. IT'S BEST TO DEAL WITH AN IMPORT CD. YOU MIGHT GET YOUR MONEYS WORTH.