5 comments about Sublime.

1. I kind of liked the more laid back sound of 40 oz. a little better than the radio-friendly sound of this one. The other one had more of a dub (which I love) sound too. This one's still great though.
   The best word I could describe this album with is "sunny". It always seems to put me in a good mood.



2. Sublime's self-titled third album, released in 1996, became a cult classic following the death of frontman Bradley Nowell. It's sad to think that if not for Nowell's untimely passing, Sublime might have remained the more underground group they were for most of their career, but in any event, this is a wonderful album. The whole CD emits laidback vibes that make for the perfect chilled-out listening. Sublime combines the emotion of punk rock with the musical conventions of island music. Most songs use a classic ska bassline or have blippy guitars or horns. The sound evokes the scene of sunny California and the beach, and is why it's such great summertime music. But their talent as musicians and songwriters stands out even above their unique approach. The songwriting is excellent, with calculated yet free-flowing instrumental breaks, solos that fit each song very well, and tight production that allows each song to meet its potential. And Sublime would not be Sublime without Brad Nowell, everyone's favorite weed-smoking, childish, moody, socially conscious fornicator. At his happiest, Nowell embraces the easygoing West Coast lifestyle, and at his most depressed he is confused and emotional. Passionate yet rebellious, another interesting facet to his character is his concern for the plight of the urban poor; he advocates social responsibility, and his love of hip hop is also reflected in the frequent samples from KRS-One and the Beastie Boys. The songs are so catchy, and for the most part are the right length. Although it's a little long, "Sublime" is a well-executed collection of a band in their prime whose time was tragically cut short.
   
   The album opens with "Garden Grove," a sunny and well-produced cut with great drums and bass. Nowell sings in a light manner of the ups and downs of an average day, and the instrumental breaks are tight and free-flowing. Then, the irresistable "What I Got," a timeless piece that musically and lyrically finds Sublime at their best, with Nowell cleverly weaving lighthearted philosophy and the guitars emitting a perfect laidback vibe. On "Wrong Way," Brad advocates social responsibility. I love the trombone solo on this track, Sublime was experimental with this but the product is phenomenal. "Same in the End" is frenetic and enjoyable, and "April 29, 1992" is a cool narrative of rebellion. No doubt you've heard the classic single "Santeria," a wonderfully well-written, catchy, and upbeat song that despite its pop sensibilities succeeds in capturing Sublime's brand of ska-punk, Nowell's soul, and the talented instrumentalists. It's without a doubt in my mind one of the most essential songs of the 90s. The short and sweet "Seed" and youth power sentiments of "Jailhouse" make for solid mid-album tracks, while the quirky "Pawn Shop" is a relaxing highlight of smoked-out reggae with a nice guitar performance. The very brief "Paddle Out" comes before the excellent "The Ballad of Johnny Butt," which is both catchy and lyrically meaningful, expressing "we shall overcome" sentiments. One of my favorite songs is "Burritos," a funny and musically appealing cut about amotivational syndrome. After the decent "Under My Voodoo" is the pro-weed cut "Get Ready" and the likable "Caress Me Down." The album closes with a reprise of "What I Got" and the nice "Doin' Time."
   
   Sublime takes elements of multiple musical genres to make their own product, and fans of hip hop, rock, and reggae will equally enjoy this album. After almost twelve years, it is clear that despite its cult status, this will stand the test of time and still sound wonderful years down the road. I have a hard time deciding whether I prefer this or their debut, 40 Oz. to Freedom, but I think overall this is a little better. "Sublime" is an awesome laidback sounding LP with thought provoking lyricism and great vibes, and I highly recommend it to all.



3. This is the most exceptional album since The Beatles' Revolver album.
   
   April 26, 1992 about the Rodney King riots in La, totally captures the stark reality of the times.
   
   Paddle out captures the essence of punk rock. Short energetic songs. I get this song stuck in my head when I am paddling out on my board, and it helps me push harder to get past the swell.



4. Sublime's self-titled album was one of my favorite albums in the mid-late '90s. I listened to it constantly. Recently, I listened to it again, and while I enjoyed it, it was mostly for nostalgiac reasons. The album has a handful of catchy, mindless, feel-good songs. None of the songs are downright awful (aside from "Pawn Shop") but listening to it again, I realized that the songs are nowhere near as wonderful as I thought they were 10 years ago. (Though "Santeria" is still quite infectious) The lyrics are really obnoxious. Really shallow and sort of white-trashy...sex, drugs, sex, drugs, sex, drugs. But the melodies are catchy. I think that if I heard the album for the first time now, I wouldn't like it. But I'll continue to listen to it on occasion and enjoy it because it reminds me of the summer of '98.



5. I feel like it's no stretch to say that the early 90s were a funny time for rock music. Revivalist, but still cliche hair metal bands of the late 80s were over shadowed by a new, gritty station of rock: grunge. The sound of 90s rock, visualized by the visage of Kurt Cobain, was not your fathers rock and roll.
   
   Kurt Cobain and Nirvana focused on the pain and the grit more than the soul. It's fair to say that an Eric Clapton solo leaps more into the soulful realms of music than a Nirvana number.
   
   Between what many may call the two great periods of rock music (early 70s versus early 90s) is a lot of gap, be it generational, or just psycological. There was a beauty to the music of 1970s rock. The harmonies of the Eagles, the poetry of John Lennon, or the groove of the Doobie Brothers.
   
   Grunge showcased a different idea of what rock is. Based off of the punk revolution, grunge poured over the sores of a disillusioned youth, reverberating the overarching feeling of smallness and angst one feels going into early adulthood.
   
   It's hard to find the center of the Venn Diagram between these two musical revolutions.
   
   But one band, and especially one album, meld the grit of punky grunge with the soul of rock and roll.
   
   The self titled album by Sublime is that album.
   
   From rap, to punk, to ska and reggae, Sublime hit a nerve on this album that no other rock act has done in well too long. Landing somewhere between the apoctolyptic sounds of punk and the soul of the forefathers of rock, Sublime is an album of such great rock and roll material, it's hard to believe this album was released in 1996.
   
   Everyone says it, but it's true and it's what made Sublime groove in the way they did: Brad Nowell had serious soul. The funky rock groove of tracks like "Pawn Shop" and "Under My Voo Doo" are the most pure rock and roll you could find on any post 1995 album out there. There's a power on these tracks that isn't from distortion or loud amps, it's purely the feeling of genuine and soulfull poetry. Nowell shows his guitar chops on these tracks, and he certainly was never lacking there. His lead guitar creates so much power and imagery. He properly translates the meaning of the chorus and verses onto his guitar, and the effect is trancendental.
   
   Other tracks, like the hit "What I Got," along with the slow jams of "Garden Grove" and "Jailhouse" showcase the band at a more content, easy-going state. Still, these songs are dripping with musicianship, especially from Nowell, who solos on these tracks such incredible pieces of music in themselves.
   
   Moreover, these tunes show us the variation in the music, the ability for Sublime to capture the masculine feelings of power and frustration, but also the tender yearnings of nostalgia and sentimentalism.
   
   What we had here was an incredibly genuine and talented rock and roll band. Brad Nowell's soul and power on guitar and in his voice made this album a post-grunge rock and roll masterpiece. Though 40 Oz. To Freedom also delievers in a similar fashion, Sublime was a definitive album with a timeless rock sound. It's always easy to say what-could-have-been with Sublime, but it could have been truely grand. Maybe Nowell could have created another musical revolution with his groovy island jams had he not left all too soon. Maybe there was still better things to come out of Sublime down the road. You can say a lot of maybe's, or what if's for Sublime, but we have what we have from them. And it's damn good.

5 comments about 40 Oz. to Freedom.

1. I was in 7th grade when I got this CD and so began my love for music. I memorized this CD inside and out, every note, every lyric. A friend of mine said that the first album by a band is always the best becuase it is pure and just for the love of making music. In this case this statement is true, although I give a 5 star rating to the rest of their albums as well. Sublime does not limit their style to one genre which is just one of the reasons they are the greatest band ever.



2. I am very satisfied with the product that I purchased. I received it in a timely manner and the CD was in perfect condition. The price was very satisfactory. This is one of my favorite albums and I was very happy to find such a great deal.



3. This is an excellent album. If you got a kick out of the self titled album, then a guarentee that you will, to say the least, like this album. Sublime, as a band, makes excellent albums. All of the tracks are usually listenable, and they are truly talented. If you like reggae, rock, hip-hop, or just need an album to chill to, this is great. It's funny to me, only two songs really got any attention, "Badfish" and "Date Rape" both of which are great songs, and are the to some people, the definition of a true Sublime song. Either chilled, reggae, like "Badfish" or just a really fun song with great vocals like "Date Rape". While I love hearing songs like these, my favorite songs are the songs where Nowell talks in first person, just as a normal guy. 40 oz to freedom is just a great album to relate to, as a guy. He had a cool lifestyle, and I think 40 oz to freedom describes it well. It's fun to listen to, and there might be a couple tracks you don't like, but I'm pretty sure most Sublime fans will enjoy this album pratically in its entirety after a few listens. Highly reccomended.



4. Once in a rare while we are graced with a musical genius that changes music in very profound and subtle ways. Brad was one of those genius' that could mix styles, add a bit of his own mojo, and create something completely new. Like SRV, Brad's genius is catapulted forward by an amazing band. Like SRV Brad's stopped making music way too soon. A true loss. I don't use the word lightly, Brad was a musical genius.
   
   This album is expansion in the number of styles represented. All are done well and with their own stamp. Buy it now.



5. This would be the CD. Not only does it rock, but it just makes you want to go to the beach and chill. My favorite tracks are "Waiting For My Ruca", "40 oz. To Freedom" and "We're Only Gonna Die For Our Arrogance" (Bad Religion cover).
   
   Sublime was one of the greatest bands of the ninties, if not the greatest ska band of all time.

5 comments about Gnv Fla.

1. I love this album. I bought it on the release date and have listened to it countless times since then. I have been a die hard LTJ fan for close to ten years, and I was disappointed by their last two albums. (I'm 21 thats a long time btw haha) Well this album definitely returns them to greatness.
   
   The ska is back, and so is the HIGH energy pop-punk. This album contains some of the best horns ever on a Less Than Jake album. I mean check out Lion City the horns, along with the entire song, are just amazing. I also think Vinnie's lyrics on this album are the deepest and most intelligent ones he has written. Another reviewer said he felt the lyrics were like reading a novel, they took that as a bad thing. I highly disagree, the lyrics are deeper, more intricate, but are surely still damn catchy and sing-a-longable. Roger lays down awesome bass, as to be expected, he is one of the best out there. He also plays some sweet guitar riffs on this album as well, esp. Settling Son. (to those of you who don't know Roger records most of the guitar tracks on the album and has done so since Pezcore)
   
   In short a GREAT album, I personally think its their best since Losing Streak. I put it even with Hello Rockview.
   
   Best tracks
   
   Does Lion City Still Roar?
   Handshake Meets Pokerface (lyrics really hit home on this one for me)
   Then the last three tracks on the album because they blend together so well. (This One is Gonna Leave a Bruise,Life of party has just left the building, and Devil in my DNA)
   
   Weaker Tracks (none are bad just a little weaker)
   
   Conviction Notice
   Malachi Richter's Liquor' Quicker



2. Less Than Jake, is one of my (3) favorite bands of ALL times, (Rancid & Goldfinger)...
   
   Proud of the boys for "ditching" the idea of NOT putting horns in every song just because they have them. Yes, one of the main reasons we listen to LTJ is because they have horns. Its their staple sound.
   ...and they figured that out. There are horns all over the new CD.
   
   After all, when you choose to listen to an AC/DC tune, you are not expecting a ballad and soft vocals... its AC/DC and you know it.
   
   By the way, I went to the LTJ show last night at the H.O.B. in New Orleans... they were at the top of there game !!! Fantastic show, sounded great, and as always, LTJ played only (3) songs from the new CD and played tons of old tunes. They played for 1-1/2 hours and did a (3) song encore... (Gainsville Rock City, Dope Man and Plastic Cup Politics) ...outstanding show!!!
   
   Back to the new CD;
   With "Hello Rockview" and "Borders and Boundaries" being their two best CD's to date, (I would rate them as 5 stars) GNV FLA gets close but falls a bit short (almost 4 stars.) To me it sounds like the latter (2) CD's I mentioned, but a bit more mature than those two CD's (musically).
   The lyrics, however, are like novels. Way too many words in each song, to crowded with lyrics, they need to let their tunes breath a bit.
   
   GNV FLA lacks vocal hooks...
   
   I have been listening to the CD since its release (and digging it) and found only 2 or maybe 3 vocal hooks on the whole CD. Hell, when I want to sing along with one of the songs, I get the lyrics sheet out of the inside cover and each song is like reading a novel. Who wants to do that.
   
   Anyway, that is my 1 and ONLY complaint with GNV FLA, too many lyrics and not enough vocal hooks. Well, that is technically 2 complaints.
   
   The sound production is great, as always, the horns are back, finally, and musically, the mature LTJ sound is great! just too many lyrics.
   
   This CD is definitely worth the buy, if you like Ska and Punk!!!
   ...and the show is one you DO NOT want to miss!
   So, enjoy both.
   
   Lil' Gleason



3. this is the most definately one of the best CD's LTJ has put out since "hello rockview" and seein as they fell flat on their faces with the last album you wont be disapointed and youll probebly be skanking in your room while listening to it



4. So the story goes that this is "the comeback CD" by this band, the so called return to form, and in some sense, it is. Since the last CD "In with the Outcrowd" we see a lot of the old Less Than Jake coming back. We have the horns-a-plenty concept back at the front line, we have Roger's insanely techy underlying basslines, and the ever so catchy ska-guitar. This will remind you more of Hello Rockview than it will Anthem or their previous release. However, I'm hesitant to call it a comeback CD because there's something that's just eating away at my conscience.
   
   That is catchiness. I wanted to fall to me knees and scream "It's the second coming" but it's not. The songs, while they are horn driven and most certainly more ska than radio friendly pop-punk, the songs aren't as fun as they used to be. A lot of the songs take on a depressing tone, especially the songs where Chris does the singing. Noteably the song "Abandon Ship" is just downright dismal. I will give them credit for "Lion City" the quasi single, as well as a good bunch of songs like "Golden Age of my Negative Ways" and "Space they can't touch" but a lot of the songs just blend together and aren't that good. Then, when they try to be fun, like on "Conviction Notice," it becomes repetitive and corny. Sure, Less Than Jake doesn't always sing about happy things, but before, such as on Losing Streak, they managed to make a song about selling drugs into the most upbeat fun song on the CD. Here, when the subject matter is bleak, the music is bleak.
   
   Not saying that this CD isn't fun, it does have it's moments. Instrumentally this might be Less Than Jake's best CD. We have Chris busting out some neat guitar licks, Roger's bass is astonishing like it used to be, and we have horns literally everywhere. It just seems like in and effort to re-invent themselves, the boys forgot to have fun with it. Three and a half stars for a solid effort to go back to the glory days, but we're not quite there.



5. I hated LTJ's last cd, In with the Out Crowd. It was a publicity stunt in my opinion, all emo/pop-punk stuff, which if you're into is fine..but that's not what LTJ was founded on..in fact, when I saw them, their trombonist did more jumping than playing..But this cd revived them in my opinion. Some songs are a little iffy, but the majority of it is back to ska.

4 comments about Medium Rare.

1. Long time fan of the band and I was surprised to find out a new album was cut. I enjoyed Dicky when he hosted the Mighty Morning Show on Indie 103.1 out here in Southern California but it wasn't the same without the rest of the band. Hearing this album restores my faith in the Ska movement because instead of putting out just anything, this is a great album! Favorite song... "Don't Worry Desmond Dekker". I am hoping for another live album with their new work to complement "Live from the Middle East" (hands down one of the best live albums ever!
   
   Buy this album, call your stations to get more Bosstones on the radio. They deserve to be heard!



2. The first note hits you like a train. It's something you saw far off in the distance, a faint light coming from miles away. You stand there on the tracks and watch as it collides with your senses, as the force of something bigger than you imbeds itself in your brain. Indeed, the BossToneS are back, so girls dry your tears.
   
   It's been all too long since the BossToneS announced their hiatus and effectively cast a dark cloud over the lives of millions of fans, not to mention music as a whole. So many of us listened to Avoid One Thing and The Street Dogs, tuned in religiously to Jimmy Kimmel Live. We watched with bated breath as Dicky Barrett sang "This Time of Year" all by himself with a touch of sadness in his voice and a look on his face like he was lost in an unfair world. The mayhem was nowhere to be found, the fire had left his eyes.
   
   Tune in now to the documentary videos surrounding the reunion Hometown Throwdown show and you see eight guys who have genuine joy on their faces, including a grizzly voiced frontman whose voice cracks with emotion as he addresses his first loyal crowd in years.
   
   The album starts out screaming of a homecoming. You listen closely as indiscernible noise comes through the speakers, not at all unlike the opening of "Pay Attention." And just like "Let Me Be," a couple of staccato power chords followed by a solid bass line pound through the air and you're hooked. You never had a chance. The first three tracks on the album are brand new and they're amazing. They've got the ground breaking horns of "Question the Answers" and more hooks than a deep sea fisherman. The guitar work is amazing, faintly reminiscent of older BossTones releases.
   
   The rest of the album consists of B-sides and unreleased tracks recorded over the years. A lot of these are pretty hard to find, so it is nice that they're all available in one neat little package. The songs span back to the "Question the Answers" days and come up to tracks that didn't make it onto "A Jackknife to a Swan."
   
   Buy this album. It's the most important release of the last five years. Show your support. Make sure the BossToneS know that a world without them is a world without happiness. And a world without hope.



3. This is one of the bosstones best CD's ever made, most of the song are up beat and fun. I have not stoped listning to it since I got it. I would reccommend this album to any one who likes "The Mighty Mighty Bosstones".



4. This is the first cd the Bosstones have made since reuniting and it rocks. Three new songs with 10 very rare old Bosstone favorites. The new songs prove the Bosstones have not missed a beat! Great cd!

5 comments about Exodus.

1. Bob Marley & The Wailers-Exodus *****
   
   
   Released in 1977, the year that 'punk broke' Exodus was the most important album to emerge that year, not The Sex Pistols' Never Mind The Bollocks, not The Clash, not L.A.M.F., no, Exodus far passes those in terms of importance, and really in over all quality. The overall spirituality and tone of the album is very different from all the other albums the group had previously released. The same can be said for the production of the album and the band, both of which are tighter and sound better then any other album the band ever recorded, though that does not make this the groups best album.
   
   Exodus was released and recorded while Marley was living in England after fleeing his home land due to a assassination attempt on his life. This may explain the sudden change in subject matter. Marley was always known for being very spiritual but it seems as though the hit on his life brought him closer to his faith, songs like the angelic 'One Love' the equaly big hit 'Three Little Birds' and the albums incredible opener 'Natural Mystic' are excellent examples of this. Marley had also been known as some what of a rights activist for his people, but living in another part of the world seemed to have brought peace to his mind about the harsh conditions back home because he was more focused on his universal truths such as fate.
   
   Songs like 'Jamming' and the beautiful 'Waiting In Vain' brought Marley & The Wailers to the masses. These songs along with basically the rest of the album made the group giants in the United States and in the U.K. where seven of the albums songs became hit singles, and for that, bringing a whole style of music to the rest of the world on that large of a scale, Exodus is easily one of the most important albums ever made.
   
   With such great songs and amazing musicianship in the group Exodus is a instant classic and essential for all those interested in any form of music. Though I must say that this is not the best album by the group, it is a very close second, but with out any question, Catch A Fire, the groups first album is the best. The group plays tighter then ever here, showing that change is not always a bad thing, that it is not something to fear, but also showing once again that Marley never wrote any bad material.



2. Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2ZNCZUEUFW2SS This has been one of my favorite albums forever. Doesn't need my rating, but I'd like to show how great it is for JumpRock.



3. This album takes me back to my youth living close the major West Indian area of London where this music came from every window or so it seemed. Great album



4. This set includes the great songs that helped Bob Marley officially cross over to mainstream, and bring reggae with him. Although reggae music is still not as prominent as it could be, this set certainly helped it along. It has some of each type of music. Jah reggae, dance and rock. If you are a reggae fan this is a stable for your library.



5. Time Magazine's Album Of The Century. Need I say more?
   
   If you want one Bob Marley studio album that represents everything he believes in, this is it. Don't hesitate. You should own this already.

5 comments about Everything Under The Sun.

1. If you are a fan of Sublime, this is the collection for you! Filled with all of their hits. Highly recommended. Makes a great gift!



2. I've been a long time Sublime fan, ever since their self titled album came out back in '96. A good amount of these songs I've heard but a few I haven't. This is a great collection to have for any hardcore Sublime fan.
   
   On a side note; listening to these songs really makes you sad to realize how talented Brad and the band actually were, and what they could have became.



3. was by a guy who reviews Michael Bolton and Chicago albums. Apparently he was disappointed in some of them. Therefore I wouldn't base whether I get this boxset or not on his 1 star review here. I guess I could give him a break beacuse he does like Greenday... oh wait... Greenday sucks too.
   
   As for this boxset, I actually haven't heard it yet but am interested and wanted to see if it was any good when I came across this guy's post. Had to say soemthing. Michael Bolton...seriously????



4. One of the best albums EVER released! A must have for a true Sublime fan!



5. Check out the two easter eggs on the boxset's DVD, live versions of "Pool Shark" and "DJ".
   
   To access "DJ," on the Main Menu keep the highlight on the option for 'Roll It' and press the arrow keys on your DVD remote in this order: Right, Down, Left, Up, Right, Down, Left, Up. This will automatically play the clip.
   
   To access "Pool Shark," on the second menu page for 'The Cuts' put the highlight on "Main Menu" and press the arrow keys on your DVD remote in this order: Right, Left, Right, Left, Up, Up, Down, Down. This will change the highlight to the color green and then press the Enter/OK button on your remote to access it.
   
   And if you haven't taken the time to notice, each menu is a full-length song, bonus tracks in their own right.

5 comments about The Singles 1992-2003.

1. I just pulled this CD out again after quite awhile - Hey, I was in the OC mood I guess, and who better to trash the suburban dream than Miss Gwen and her endless ska, bleeps and blurps. I can't help but to love this band of fun loving Cali kids. Walking into spider webs when you're just a girl will leave you feeling hella good... shhh.. don't speak just listen.
   
   Every single little ditty is here in full glory and I guess it takes a few years off to go back and revisit just why Gwen and the boys became so popular. Every single is infectious and excellent, and so much better than the solo stuff Gwen has been playing out.
   
   Perhaps now that the band has reformed we will get the band experience as Gwen is never as good on her own as she is with the band and the singles compilation is definitely the best place to go to relive the No Doubt experience.



2. I have not listened to the entire CD since I bought it. Go to I-Tunes and grab the one or two you really like and keep moving.



3. Just a Girl 4/5 Tragic Kingdom
   
   It's My Life 3.75/5 The Singles 1992-2003
   
   Hey Baby 4/5 Rock Steady
   
   Bathwater 4.25/5 Return of Saturn
   
   Sunday Morning 4/5
   
   Hella Good 3/5 (Probably one of their worst, besides Staring Problem (hate, hate HATE that song. >_< )
   
   New 4.5/5
   
   Underneath It All 4.75/5
   
   Excuse Me Mr. 4.25/5 Tragic Kingdom
   
   Running 4/5 Rock Steady
   
   Spiderwebs 4/5
   
   Simple Kind of Life 4.5/5 Return of Saturn
   
   Don't Speak 4.5/5 Tragic Kingdom
   
   Ex-Girlfriend 4/5 Return of Saturn
   
   Trapped in a Box 2/5 Trippy and crappy. Very, Very, Very, Very, VERY crappy. Ugh. Come on, ND!!! The Singles 1992-2003
   
   59.5/15 = 3.966666666666667
   
   4 stars even, for a favorite band of mine (probably my second favorite)



4. First, let me start off by saying that this is an unbiased review. I'm not a fan of the band nor do I dislike the band. I'm a fan of all types of music. I also won't be comparing this album to any other albums from the band. This review will be strictly on this particular album. Now onto the review.
   
   No Doubt fans will undoubtedly be thrilled to own a compilation of their favorite band's hits all on one album. Casual fans will want to partake so that they can own an album that contains mostly recognizable and loveable hits from the group.
   
   Here's a rundown of the songs (along with my rating for each song):
   Just A Girl-4/5
   It's My Life-4/5
   Hey Baby-3.5/5
   Bathwater-4/5
   Sunday Morning-4.5/5
   Hella Good-3.5/5
   New-3.75/5
   Underneath It All-3.5/5
   Excuse Me Mr.-4/5
   Running-4.5/5
   Spiderwebs-4/5
   Simple Kind of Life-3.5/5
   Don't Speak-4.5-5
   Ex-Girlfriend-4/5
   Trapped in a Box-3/5
   
   So what's to like about this album? As I said above, casual fans will recognize 80% of the songs on this album. The only songs that I didn't know were "Sunday Morning" (my new favorite track from the band), "New", "Excuse Me Mr.", "Spiderwebs", and "Trapped In a Box". Fans of older No Doubt songs will be content with "Just A Girl", "Bathwater", and "Ex-Girlfriend". Fans of newer No Doubt songs will be entertained by "Hey Baby", "Hella Good", and the newest song on this album "It's My Life". There's also ton of different kinds of music to choose from. From reggae-influenced "Sunday Morning" to the more electronic sounding "Hey Baby" to the classic No Doubt sound (it's all about the guitars, baby!) in "Excuse Me Mr." to the ballads like "Don't Speak", this album is sure to please everybody!
   
   Lyric-wise, this album has everything! You have songs about breakups and seperations. And you have songs about being "Just A Girl" and songs that make you just want to get up and dance. Vocal-wise, I prefer the older No Doubt songs to the newer ones. Gwen's voice is perfect for its genre.
   
   Furthermore, the songs aren't in any particular order so if you listen to the album straight through, you get an eclectic mix of old and new songs.
   
   And what's not to like? Honestly, nothing. I love every song on this album although I have to be in a certain mood to listen to the newer songs.
   
   My rating: 5/5 stars. There's a ton of entertainment on this album. Whether you're a fan of the band's music or you just like great music in general, this album is a must have for your CD collection. It's one of the first CDs I pull out when I want a mix of everything. You won't know how much you want this CD until you have it in your hands!



5. The rapid fire second punch that gave the audience no chance to breathe after the opening number on most of the Tragic Kingdom shows, this song went from closer to opener in the setlist before comfortably settling into the second spot right after "Tragic Kingdom". Originally the song had been played at the end of the show with Gwen's call and response of "Excuse me... excuse me mister", and "I'm in line too", the band would play as quiet as a whisper until Gwen screamed "F--- YOU MISTER!!!" where the boys would then fire up again and finish the song (and usually the show) out. It has been said that an original version was recorded that the band disliked, and when the last song for the album was penned (this being "Spiderwebs") the band insisted that they would record it if they were allowed to rerecord "Excuse Me Mr." the way they wanted. Not only did it become the version we all know, but those two songs ended up being the last recorded for Tragic Kingdom, and Gwen has called it the best recording experience the band has had. On a funny note, Tom said often that the lyrics were 'metaphorical' and 'cryptic', once even stating that Gwen's lyrics were written to sound like the song was written about a homeless person. Of course this isn't true. Or is it??? The song had been written for quite a while before it was released, as the band was playing it live in 1993 and even played an acoustic version of it on the radio show Loveline in June 1993.

4 comments about B Sides and C Sides.

1. It's all there and it ain't light.
   As someone else already noted... it does span the band's career which gives it a pretty rounded play. I too want a new album but this f***** WILL hold you over until that s*** happens!!!
   The album also has 5 bonus tracks that add a nice right cross to finish it off.
   
   This album DOES put out. It won't disappoint.



2. My honest opinion: after promising the Rancid fans a new record like... two years ago when they started touring again with the Explosion and we all realized that no, Matt Freeman is not going to die of lung cancer just yet, they needed to give something, SOMETHING, to the fans while they keep pushing back the release date of the still mysteriously unknown seventh studio album. So I guess the plan of action was this; compile all the songs that weren't on the first six CDs and put them on one CD that would stall for time a little for the fans that haven't picked up any of the compilations that these songs were featured on.
   
   Well played, Rancid, well played. What's cool about this CD is that the songs come from different periods in time and Rancid's career. Since their sound has changed over the years so much, it's cool to be listening to one song and thinking, "Oh, it sounds like they wrote this some time around the 'Life Won't Wait' time period, and then the next song might me more hard hitting and take you back to their 2000 self titled. Ultimately the music can be traced back as far as 1994's 'Let's Go' and that's not a bad thing at all.
   
   So basically, since this is a record of b-sides and there's nothing new, nothing about the sound has really changed. Matt Freeman is still the star of a lot of the tracks, moreso than he was on "Indestructable" which is kind of nice, he was definitely underutilized there. The guitars are nothing special but they never really are, and I continue my stance on their vocals; Tim's voice is amazing, Lars's is okay, and Matt actually sings on this CD too. I love when he gets to since because his voice is just so awesome and different, it's what made Rancid's debut CD so good. The standout tracks are "Dead and Gone" "Killing Zone" "Blast 'Em" and "White Knuckle Ride" which features bass to rival "Maxwell Murder" and "Axiom" and probably surpasses both. For any fan of Rancid this is a must have CD, even if Devil Dancing is really annoying and goes on forever.
   
   But seriously Rancid, no more stalling. We want the seventh album and we don't want to wait another two flippin' years.



3. Hmmmm, could this be - a scrape the barrel of the archives cash-in album from the very band that brought punk rock back from the dead and championed integrity in the music industry? Yes. But, it is also nothing short of spectacular - and I'm happy to have my favorite, dust-crusted vinyl singles on CD at last. It ranks right up there with ...Wolves and Life Wont Wait and is a hair ahead of Indestructible among the best Rancid albums and side projects. Sure the rabid fan base can't wait for the next proper album, but this collection is more than enough to keep the pit jumping until then.



4. I didnt even know this cd existed until yesterday. i was in my local music store, saw it and bought it. anyways, it has the feel of the operation ivy release. short, poppy songs with catchy hooks and the like. a couple of songs have a strong ska influence (trumpets, horns and the like). every song is listenable but most of the songs (21 in all) are top quality, punk sounding whoa's and na-na-na's sing along punk style. personally, i would rate this album a close second behind "and out come the wolves." man i love this cd and i love rancid. if you love rancid like i know you do, BUY IT, i promise you will like it.

5 comments about Legend - The Best of Bob Marley and the Wailers.

1. I received this tape and a Yani tape and neither of them work. I tried them in several places and they still did not work. I am extremely disappointed since I spend a lot at this site and have been happy in the past with books I have bought. This is my first time with CD's. I will send them back soon.



2. The best visual media around represented by Bob Marley and the Wailers...
   -amazing and rare collection of music videos.
   -I enjoyed the documentary though I would have preferred 'soul rebel' to be there instead, otha than that it is one of those 'must have' dvd's...



3. Didnt realize how old this film would be, but I guess it's to be expected? The music is great, it's awesome to see marley up close and personal like that, but the film quality is a B-/C+ at best.



4. This is a must buy video for anyone looking for Marley on video. Time will tell was originally a separate issue on VHS and now it's coupled with Legend, which is also very good. So me for me this is definitely a two for the price of one deal. The combination of music, graphics and talking on Time will Tell is uniquely well done. Buy it.



5. The music selections on here are fine. I was disappointed with the "Stir It Up" video edit - the producers should have thrown more bread at the Old Grey Whistle Test blokes to get the entire performance. The documentary is filler - not very good. I recommend this, but there is better Bob stuff out there.

5 comments about Beat This: The Best of the English Beat.

1. Saw them live at a wedding last year. Awesome live and on cd. Their music reminds me of the 80's but the ska and reggae is timeless. Good for any mood.



2. One of the greatest performers of all time, Dave Wakeling is still packing in the crowds in 2008. A crooner extraordinaire who always gets us on our feet...we just can't help it!



3. Kinda funny what happened to the Beat (known as the "English Beat" here in America, though I find that name clunky): their debut, I Just Can't Stop It, was an excellent album with their biggest hit (Mirror in the Bathroom), and assorted other goodies, most of them found here (Best Friend; Hands Off She's Mine; Twist and Crawl; Click Click; Whine and Grind/Stand Down Margaret; Can't Get Used to Losing You; Tears of a Clown, though Two Swords is missed). Then they crashed: Record #2, Wha'ppen? had a few gems (Too Nice to Talk to; Doors of Your Heart; Drowning, featured here: Get a Job and Dreamhouse in NZ are both sadly MIA), but it was uneven and felt like a holding pattern. By album #3 (Special Beat Service), they had all but lost it, going from a premeire punk-ska act to an Adult Contemporary act with a slight Jamaican feel. They managed to wring three good songs out of that mess: I Confess; Sole Salvation and Save it for Later. Wisely, they put those songs here.
   Find yourself a copy of this album. It's a great party CD, and I used to listen to it near-religiously. Great music. The Beat were a more authentic Police when it came to mixing reggae and punk, thanks to their brilliant saxman Saxa: that's saying something, since the Police were also an authentic reggae band. Every song on this one's a gem, unlike on some of their studio albums: if you're a casual fan, this is all the Beat you need.



4. If there were one UK band that was a true icon of the 80's, it would definitely be the English Beat. With the upbeat ska sounds that were heavily influenced by the Specials, this album is a must have. The album starts out with "Best Friend" which has a real catchy beat and funky horn section. "Save it for later" is another favorite which appears in the Woody Harrelson movie KingPin. "Mirror in the Bathroom" is on everybodys favorite 80's hits. The cover of "Tears of a Clown" is a masterful ska interpretation of The Smokie Robinson hit. My only gripe is that "Rotating Head" (heard in Ferris Bueller's Day Off when he is running through back yards towards the end) was not included. If you like The Specials, General Public and Fine Young Cannibals, you will love this album.



5. I grew up on the English Beat and they are still one of my favorite bands today. There is something about the ska from that era that really appeals to me. My first exposure to them was in the early '80s when my brother was in college and the Beat were a college radio staple.
   
   When I finally purchased "What Is Beat?" on tape, their first compilation album, I was in heaven. When my music collection converted to CD, "What Is Beat?" was one of the first CDs I purchased. It was a slight disappointment, though, because the CD could not hold as much music as the tape did and a few songs had to be cut. Bummer.
   
   When I found "Beat This!" a few years ago, I was thrilled. Even though there were many repeat songs, it also included some that were cut from the "What Is Beat?" CD and a few that were never included such as "Click Click" and "Drowning." I still have both CDs and each fulfills a different purpose.
   
   Ultimately, though, these Best Of albums will never tell the whole story but they are a great start to this ska band. If you like "Beat This!," be sure to check out their original albums as well for other gems that just didn't fit with the time limitations.