The Key [Enhanced]

Amazon.com essential recording
Over a decade of amiable and entertaining hits, Vince Gill has occasionally emitted flashes of greatness. On The Key, he finally opens up and taps his full artistic potential with a complete collection of stunningly powerful songs. Using spare instrumentation, and working amid a foundation of bluegrass and barroom country sounds, the recently divorced Gill concentrates on simply stated yet deeply felt songs about betrayal, loss, and the prospects of opening a bruised heart to another lover. Working with a variety of female harmony partners--including Patty Loveless, Alison Krauss, Shelby Lynne, and Sara Evans--Gill brings out the aching beauty of his tenor by settling into gorgeous melodies laid out with unadorned authority. By daring to bare his innermost feelings, he's achieved the greatness he's hinted at through the years. --Michael McCall

Country Music Magazine
Vince deserves some kind of award for this new CD: It's masterfully country without any smarty pants retro kitsch whatsoever. With The Key it's like Vince decided to single-handedly revive the long-lost heydays and sounds of Owen Bradley, Buck Owens, Ernest Tubb and George Jones.

The Key [Enhanced]

The Key,Vince Gill,Mca Nashville,Contemporary Country,Country,Country & Western,New Traditionalist,Pop,Progressive Bluegrass

Average customer rating: My first choice for a desert island The definition of music at its best. You Can't NOT Give This Album 5 Stars stevie really wonder 10 STARS FOR SOUL

Songs in the Key of Life Stevie Wonder Manufacturer: Motown ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Classic R&B | R&B | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music Motown | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Innervisions Talking Book Fulfillingness' First Finale What's Going on Stevie Wonder - The Definitive Collection ASIN: B00004SZWD Release Date: 2000-05-02

Tracks:

1. Love's In Need Of Love Today
2. Have A Talk With God
3. Village Ghetto Land
4. Contusion
5. Sir Duke
6. I Wish
7. Knocks Me Off My Feet
8. Pastime Paradise
9. Summer Soft
10. Ordinary Pain

Tracks:

1. Isn't She Lovely
2. Joy Inside My Tears
3. Black Man
4. Ngiculela/Es Una Historia/I Am Singing
5. If It's Magic
6. As
7. Another Star
8. Saturn
9. Ebony Eyes
10. All Day Sucker
11. Easy Goin' Evening (My Mama's Call)

Amazon.com essential recording

Songs in the Key of Life (1976) was the highest high point of Stevie Wonder's career. More sprawling than Innervisions and Talking Book, this two-LP-plus-EP was also less of a consistent stunner than either of those masterworks. That Songs retains an enormous amount of visionary relevance, though, is demonstrated not only in Coolio's borrowing of "Pastime Paradise" as a template for "Gangsta's Paradise," but in the cold-as-ice synthesized string quartet of "Village Ghetto Land." This is Stevie, so naturally that cut's anger is balanced by the ultra-buoyant "I Wish," "Sir Duke," and "Another Star." The 2000 reissue boasts radically improved remastered sound. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

My first choice for a desert island.......2007-07-08

Undeniably classic Stevie Wonder. If you're a fan you have to have this one; if you're new to Stevie this is the place to start. Unlike some of his sugar sweet music from the 1980s, Songs In The Key Of Life has some melodies that can only be described as "haunting" -- they stay with you a lifetime. Some believe that a great meal should be paired with a great wine. Here, each melody is paired with the right lyrics. It's perfect and it's also the one album I would take if I could take only one to a desert island banishment.

The definition of music at its best........2007-06-17

If you check your local music store and looked through the Stevie Wonder CDs, you are likely to find this album more than the other albums (aside from "A Time To Love.") Though this album is over 30 years old, it's still in demand, and with a good reason: the 21 songs on this album are some of the greatest works to ever enter the music industry.

Most artists these days stick to one type of music, rarely trying something different. Wonder, on the other hand, has mastered not only his usual R&B and funk songs such as "I Wish," but on this album he also throws in some Latin, classical and funk/rock fusion twists, and he delivers them just as well as his usual genre.

Wonder without a doubt has talent in songwriting. He sings about almost everything that you can sing about, such as world peace ("Love's In Need Of Love Today"), love ("Knocks Me Off My Feet"), heartbreak ("Another Star"), world problems ("Village Ghetto Land") and equality ("Black Man") to name a few. No matter what he sings about he delivers some of the best vocals, lyrics and composing of all time. Most of his songs are upbeat and danceable, such as "Ngiculela" and "Sir Duke." "As" and "Summer Soft" are the most beautiful, poetic songs on the album and the music accompanying them are just as extraordinary. The funk songs Wonder is known for are also here. "I Wish" and "All Day Sucker" are funkier than "Superstition" from the album "Talking Book." "Ebony Eyes" is a very fun song that has a slight Beatles feel to it.

Wonder also includes two instrumentals: "Contusion" and "Easy Goin' Evening." Both of them show Wonder's skill with instruments, especially the harmonica (in "Easy Goin' Evening") which he is very well known for. "Contusion" is a great display of R&B/rock fusion and is very fun to dance to.

With twenty-one songs on this album, each of them some of the greatest songs ever, it's difficult to not like the album. This is music at its absolute best.

You Can't NOT Give This Album 5 Stars.......2007-06-08

I never really considered myself a Stevie Wonder fan, but after listening to this album, I realize why people love him so much. The songs off this album have been sampled and re-recorded by so many other artists it's scary! His R&B songwriting was second to none during the mid 70s.

stevie really wonder.......2007-05-13

great album: one of my favourites through all times. I already own the LP but on cd the quality is excellent. great buy!!!

10 STARS FOR SOUL.......2007-05-02

You know I found the album of him with two records and listening to it is just so AMAZING!!! Look at all the instruments Mr. Stevie Wonder plays and how he composes each and every song, along with the wisdom Stevie kicks down from his songs. I mean, what ever happened to all that SOUL in today's music???
Much love for the parents and the purpose that Stevie Wonder has continued to live out!

Average customer rating: How Could Anyone Not Like This! A must buy Heaven in slack strings and smooth voices aloha A rare peaceful treat!

Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Various Artists Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music Pacific Islands | Compilations | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 Black Sand Sounds of Hawaii Facing Future Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 ASIN: B0000030MF Release Date: 1995-05-23

Tracks:

1. Panini Pua Kea - Cyril Pahinui
2. Ku'u Kika Kahiko (My Old Guitar) - Ozzie Kotani
3. Pohakuloa - Moses Kahumoku
4. Ke'ala's Mele - Leonard Kwan
5. Maui Medley - Barney Isaacs And George Kuo
6. Moe 'Uhane' (Dream Slack Key) - Sonny Chillingworth
7. Kalena Kai - Keola Beamer
8. Whee Ha Swing - Ledward Kaapana
9. E Ku'u Morning Dew - Keola Beamer
10. Waikiki Hula Medley - George Kuo
11. Punahele - Ray Kane

Amazon.com

Hawaiian slack-key guitar began evolving in the 1830s, when Spanish and Mexican cowboys brought guitars to the cattle ranches of the Big Island. It became a recognizable style around the turn of the century. The term refers to the practice of slacking some strings from standard tunings to create open tunings; the thumb provides the bass line while the other fingers play melody and improvise. It might thus remind some listeners of the fingerpicking of a country master like Doc Watson, but the style has a wind-blown, wide-open quality all its own. Traditionally an accompanying instrument in a group setting, slack key has recently moved out front, and this all-instrumentals CD shows why. From the light touch of Moses Kahumoku or Leonard Kwan to the bluesiness of George Keo or Ray Kane to the pop feel of Keola Beamer, it offers the best possible introduction to the music. --John Morthland

Customer Reviews:

How Could Anyone Not Like This! .......2007-05-26

I remember listening to this kind of guitar sound when I was a teenager in Hawaii back in the summer of 1964. I fell in love with that sound then and am still a huge fan of this style of guitar playing.

It is still alive and fresh even after listening to this CD hundreds of times over the years. It makes you want to smile and dance and kick sand around on some beach!

The selection of artists for this CVD is alike an aal-star team - great stuff!

A must buy.......2007-04-06

I listen to this Cd on my honeymoon in Maui... just about everyday. It's very relaxing and kind of romantic when sitting in a hot tub. When we got home we had to order this, so we can always have special music to listen to.

Heaven in slack strings and smooth voices.......2006-11-10

If you want to be exposed to some of the best slack-key music around and a wide variety as well, this is the first of several albums you MUST add to your collection. Period. Clean. Clear. Wonderful recordings that make and contain the whole notion of 'Aloha' and so much more.

Here are the islands, the winds, volcanoes rising from the waves, morning light, beach sands. Here are smooth voices, restful voices. Here are joyful moods, playful echoes, and a fascinating blend of ancient textures with new age notions.

Get it. Play it. Play it again. Let it take you to new places where 'mahalo' grabs your soul. It is what it is. Relax. Enjoy.

aloha.......2006-10-07

what a wonderful cd - flashback to warm summer evenings at the slack key guitar festival - all our favorite artists - can hardly wait to order vol II - great price thru amazon - mahalo

A rare peaceful treat!.......2006-05-29

This instrumental Hawaiian guitar music album plays like a blessing in song. The melodies are achingly beautiful. It can transform the darkest mood.

The tradition of Hawaiian slack key started in the 1800's when guitars were first introduced to the Islands. The instruments were adapted to Hawaiian musical traditions. Hawaiian musicians developed their own tunings which in some cases were passed down through the generations.

Ordinarily these guitarists are not heard solo. Luckily for us, we have this collection of Hawaiian slack key guitarists. Enjoy this beautiful album!

Average customer rating: Love it Delicious! beautiful 2006 GRAMMY WINNER!!! Please, more slack key without vocals!!!

Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 Various Artists Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Blues | Styles | Music Electric Blues Guitar | Blues | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Black Sand Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 6 & 12 String Slack Key Soliloquy: Ka Leo O Loko ASIN: B00000JJMW Release Date: 1999-07-27

Tracks:

1. Popoki Slack Key - Ray Kane
2. Ulili E - Dennis Kamakahi/David Kamakahi
3. Hilo E/E Lili'u - Cgril Pahinui/Bob Brozman
4. Liloa's Mele - Sonny Chillingworth
5. Radio Hula - Led Kaapana & Friends
6. Imi Au La 'Oe - Keola Beamer
7. Pu'u Anahulu - Kamakahi/Kuo/Pahinui Hawaiina Slack Key Band
8. Hurrah Lani Ha'a Ha'a - Cgril Pahinui
9. Maori Brown Eyes - James 'Bla' Pahinui
10. Wahine 'Ilikea - Dennis Kamakahi
11. Lei 'Awaphui (Yellow Ginger Lei) - Bob Brozman/Led Kaapana
12. The Beauty Of Mauna Kea - Keola Beamer/George Winston
13. Mai Poina 'Oe La 'U (Not To Be Forgotten) - Sonny Chillingsworth
14. Aloha 'Oe - George Kahumoki
15. Ula Niu Ke'eke'e (The Crooked Coconut Tree) - George Kahumoki/Kekuhi Kanabelo
16. Slack Key Seranada - Leonard Kwan/Ozzie Kotani

Amazon.com

This second album in Dancing Cat Records' Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Series produced by George Winston follows its successful Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters. Again the masters of the genre are featured in several well-known tunes such as Lili'uokalani's "Aloha 'Oe" (played here by George Kahumoku) and "'Ulili E" (Dennis and David Kamakahi), as well as modern originals and two tracks that had not been available on CD before: "Ulu Niu Ke'eke'e" (George Kahumoku and Kekuhi Kanahele) and "Slack Key Serenade" (Leonard Kwan and Ozzie Kotani). The liner notes provide complete information on each song's original album.

A balance of instrumental and vocal tracks, the compilation is a terrific starting point for exploring the artistic and stylistic diversity in modern slack key. Instruments on this album include everything from traditional mouth bow, 'ukulele, and percussion stones to 12-string slack key and modern acoustic guitars. Elder statesman Ray Kane lullabies us with his simple instrumental "Popoki Slack Key" (popoki means "little cat"); renowned improviser Cyril Pahinui and Sol Hoopii-influenced Bob Brozman combine 12-string slack key and acoustic steel guitar interpreting "Hilo E" and "Lili'u E" in a style evocative of the 1920s. Showing off how slack key works solo, in duets, or with mixed accompaniment, this is one of the most beautiful slack key compilations out there. --Erik Macki

Customer Reviews:

Love it.......2007-02-24

Bought a copy for a trip to Kauai. Listened to it while I was there and now all we have to do is slip the disc on to be transported back to the islands (at least if we keep our eyes closed and try real hard to imagine).

The music is sublime.

Delicious!.......2007-01-09

I am hooked on this music and could play this CD day and night.

beautiful.......2006-06-01

This cd would be worth buying even if it only had one song on it - the version of "Pu'u Anahulu" with Martin Pahinui on vocals. I get chicken skin just listening to this song and how much he sounds like his father! Of course I love Gabby's version but always wondered what it would sound like without the cheesy strings; this is it. Unlike one other reviewer, I love the vocals.

2006 GRAMMY WINNER!!!.......2006-02-25

This album won a Grammy in February 2006! And diservedly so...

Slack key has come into it's own, many prominent guitar players are following these talented Hawaiians around, learning their new tricks and their old traditional ways. (In song sample #8 of "Masters II", Amazon spelled Cyril Pahinui's name with a "g", come on, let's give the Hawaiian artists the respect they deserve.)

This is NOT a sequel to Slack Key MastersI, but a beautiful extension and addition. The voices as well as the strings are sublime, just right in fact.

All I can say is, MORE! MORE! MORE!

Please, more slack key without vocals!!!.......2005-11-22

That's my call to record execs, or George Winston, or whoever, if they ever read these. I bought volume one, absolutely thrilled that finally, after 40 years of searching, I'd finally found slack key without singing. I don't hate the vocals, and the vocals on this CD are less annoying than a whole lot of the vocals I've heard in Hawaiian music (yes, I grew up there, and have gone back every year for the last 30 years, and I've heard a whole lot of Hawaiian music that I didn't exactly ask for.) I love finger-picked ukulele (NOT strummed), and I love the cheesy steel guitar, but if I never hear another vocal, it'll be too soon. So anyway: is everyone who ever published Hawaiian music confident that people like and expect vocals? I see other reviews here that could do without the vocals. I hereby swear that if Dancing Cat (or anybody) ever does another collection anywhere near as good as Vol. 1, without vocals, I will instantly buy it at a premium price. I promise!

Average customer rating: Cant believe this album is averaging 4 stars Lights and Sounds This is Yellowcar's best album yet! Best yet by far Great

Lights and Sounds Yellowcard Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Punk Revival | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Punk-Pop | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Ocean Avenue Move Along Louder Now From Under the Cork Tree One for the Kids ASIN: B000CNGCCK Release Date: 2006-01-24

Tracks:

1. Three Flights Up
2. Lights And Sounds
3. Down On My Head
4. Sure Thing Falling
5. City Of Devils
6. Rough Landing, Holly
7. Two Weeks From Twenty
8. Waiting Game
9. Martin Sheen Or JFK
10. Space Travel
11. Grey
12. Words, Hands, Hearts
13. How I Go
14. Holly Wood Died

Amazon.com

Lights and Sounds is a statement of intent: Yellowcard has grown up. Never "just kids" to begin with, the California-by-way-of-Florida quintet tackles thornier subjects than on 2003's Ocean Avenue, while taking a more ambitious approach towards their already proficient musicianship. Sean Mackin's surprisingly well integrated violin playing has always been a big part of their sound, but now they've upped the ante. Their third album doesn't just open with a pretty piano-based instrumental ("Three Flights Up"), but leads to a 25-piece orchestra, along with Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks, on "How I Go." It may sound pretentious, but they make the unusual combination (pop-punk plus classical) work. On their second major label effort, Yellowcard comes across as serious to be sure--and this is nothing new--but not pretentious or silly. Affairs of the heart are as important as ever, but charismatic frontman Ryan Key has other matters on his mind. On "Two Weeks from Twenty," featuring Printz Board of the Black Eyed Peas, he sings, "We lost another one that we sent with a gun / They're gonna miss him he was two weeks from twenty." Then on "Words, Hands, Hearts," he laments, "The whole world is different now men have died." No longer bright-eyed teenagers, Yellowcard hasn't lost hope and their compassion remains boundless, but the times have changed, and so have they. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Amazon.com

Lights and Sounds is a bigger, broader album from their platinum debut album Ocean Avenue, that finds Yellowcard moving away from songs about breakups and onto more expansive themes of artifice, war, and adulthood. The guitars are tougher, the songs more intricate and encompass a wider spectrum of musical styles, which is evident in the title track.

Customer Reviews:

Cant believe this album is averaging 4 stars.......2007-06-07

If this were a bands first album, we would never hear from them again. Worst YC album to-date.

Lights and Sounds.......2007-05-31

I think it's a lot betther than most people think. Can't wait for Paper Walls.

This is Yellowcar's best album yet!.......2007-04-13

F.Y.I I am not under 13 but I just don't have an account. This album is much more mature than Ocean Avenue. This ablum has great songs that are easy to relate to. All the songs are not the same. You will hear songs with orchastras playing and other will be pure punk rock. Everyone should give this album a chance. I am sure that you will probably fall in love with YC.

Best yet by far.......2007-03-28

Like many fans, I fell in love with Yellowcard's awesome music with the release of their album, Ocean Avenue. Now with the follow-up, the newest (for now ;)) album from YC, Lights and Sounds is by far my favorite. There are plenty of good songs and NONE which I actually disliked. The thing is, I'm very picky when it comes to this kind of music, so that's saying something. My favorites have to be "Sure Thing Falling", "Rough Landing, Holly", "Waiting Game" and "Holly Wood Died". That's not all there is but you'll have to check it out for yourself!

I have to disagree with one of the past reviews that mention this would be good for fans of Coldplay and/or Keane. I for one am a huge fan of Keane and I really like some of Coldplays music, but they are nothing like YC.

If I were to compare to other bands, I might ssy fans of Simple Plan would probably like this, but all in all I think ANYONE would love YCs music when it comes down to it.

Great.......2007-02-28

this is a great cd i think this was YCs big step up now more people now about them. Best EVER

Average customer rating: 4.5; They just keep getting better... I'm an addict Not Old World, and definitely not Grow Up and Blow Away. Different band. Different sound. Dizzying! Great background music for the urban Schmoozer

Live It Out Metric Manufacturer: Last Gang Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Old World Underground, Where Are You Now? Knives Don't Have Your Back Witching Hour Broken Social Scene Set Yourself on Fire ASIN: B000B66H64 Release Date: 2007-01-08

Tracks:

1. Empty
2. Glass Ceiling
3. Handshakes
4. Too Little Too Late
5. Poster Of A Girl
6. Monster Hospital
7. Patriarch on a Vespa
8. Police And The Private
9. Ending Start
10. Live It Out

From Amazon.ca

Toronto's Metric has the ability to appeal to fans on a number of levels: the group captures the likeability of Elastica with the cheekiness of Blondie and then mixes that new wave style with just enough of a growling guitar to give it some oomph. Since their last release, the acclaimed Old World Underground, Where Are You Now?, Metric's sound has morphed slightly; this follow-up is a little more guitar-based and slightly less electronic than their last, a move likely to broaden their fan base even further.

Metric's rock-meets-new-wave is not only timely, it is joyful to boot. The driving track "Handshakes" could easily qualify for the next ipod commercial, while "Monster Hospital"'s retro punk style has a Clash-inspired chorus that will stay in your head for days. By the same token, the band's musical diversity is especially evident in the beautiful "The Police and the Private," where one could easily imagine that they are listening to an up-tempo Sarah Harmer track. Metric's cross-genre appeal is at least party due to frontwoman Emily Haines' delivery. A smart writer and performer, Haines' contributions to the Broken Social Scene collective have already made her voice somewhat familiar, and in her own element she shines especially bright. From her delicate whispers (the Pink Floyd-esque "Ending Start") to her Eurotrash-inspired yelps ("Live It Out") Haines has the "it" factor that makes indie rock critics swoon, and keeps fans dedicated. --Denise Sheppard

Customer Reviews:

4.5; They just keep getting better..........2007-06-30

It's always nice when you latch onto a band like Metric or Stars. They make memorable, hard rocking music without feeling a sense of generic-isms; a band that just sounds way too polished for its own good that radio will adore but it leaves your brain just as quickly. With their 3rd release (1st album was re-released recently...too many re's there), the band just keeps getting better and able to blend their new-age influences and rocking rhythms rather than one overpowering the other.

Empty: Starts out nice and slow before heavy guitars kick in and it just becomes a very groove-based track that's great to headbang too (it's fun to do vocalist Emily Haines' head movements which go sideways rather than vertically). 9.5/10

Glass Ceiling: One of the more enjoyable tracks on the album with a catchy main riff and the chorus being a nice quick sing-along. It just sounds like a fun track to listen to and tap your foot to. Only problem is it's slightly repetitive. 8/10

Handshakes: Even though there's a lot of elements to like about this one such as the fast-paced main riff, it doesn't really take off. Not that it's a bad track and you probably wouldn't skip over it but aside from a few things, it's hard to keep it in your head. 7/10

Too Little Too Late: After a long guitar riff, we get into a mid-tempo number with Emily's sexy vocals harmonizing with each other before it goes into a beautiful chorus which is mainly thanks to the guitar line underneath. Not really a pop hit but it's just a very enjoyable track to listen to. 8.5/10

Poster of a Girl: Some songs are just way too catchy for their own good. Everything from its ungodly catchy synth line to the guitar line played before it to Emily's sexy-as-hell repeating of the song's lyrics in French, it's an obvious highlight. 9.5/10

Monster Hospital: Very indie rock and loud and full of energy with a Clash-inspired chorus yet...I don't like it that much. Strange huh? It doesn't do anything wrong really and many love it and it was obviously a single but it's one of those songs where you're the odd man out. 7/10

Patriarch on a Vespa: Great beat although like Handshakes, it might be one of those tracks you like but probably won't go back to much. It's got its heavy guitars, Emily's vocals and good rhythm bass/drums-wise. Chorus and its noise solo saves it. Come to think of it: I like the song. 7.5/10

The Police and the Private: More catchy synth arpeggios and great interplay between it and the guitar. It's a great example of them building a kind of atmosphere without going completely nutso a la Empty or Monster Hospital. Album standout. 9/10

Ending Start: Kind of a weird song. Piano-based at its start with Emily harmonizing with a weird male voice with swirls going around all over the place. It's a nice sounding if off-kilter track but it's kind of missing a memorable hook to rope you in. 7/10

Live it Out: I love Emily's vocals at the start and when you think it'll be another ambience piece, it kicks up and rocks hard. Might not be a catchy sing along song but its rhythmic beat sets it apart and maybe not an ideal closer, it's certainly a good rocker. 8/10

It's too bad female fronted bands tend to be known more for its vocalist than anything. Everyone knows Emily just as everyone knows Amy Millan from Stars or Hayley Williams for Paramore but the band here does a great job at being a band and luckily, they come up with great records like this one.

I'm an addict.......2007-03-29

I hate indie bands, and I hate Canadians. But I LOOOOVEEEE Metric. Go figure.

Not Old World, and definitely not Grow Up and Blow Away. Different band. Different sound........2007-02-14

Can't agree more with the only negative reviewer for this record. It seems as Emily and company abandoned most of their melodic beauty that made Grow Up and Blow Away, and Old World Underground... so freakin' special in the first place. The second and third tracks on this album are basically grating.. in the most annoying way (especially the third, that yelling she does over and over). To compare this album to something by the Yeah Yeah Yeah's is definitely on the right track... what I loved most about Metric's sound initially was their all-over-the-map music, while keeping melody and high-quality songwriting intact. The band, on Live It Out, decides that they're more concerned with "rocking out" than writing high-quality, timeless songs. There's nothing wrong with rocking out, but when you compare their previous works with this latest... it's insanely disappointing. The quality of the songs has definitely dropped, which is why I can only give this record three stars instead of five like the first two.

I am grateful that Emily has a solo record... it's damn good and to me, it's the direction that Metric should have gone toward.

I do still love Emily's lyrics... but again, these songs just "rock", they don't send shivers down my spine like the ones on Grow Up and Old World (especially Grow Up...)

Maybe Metric's live shows weren't attracting audiences until they started rocking out more, with live drums as opposed to electronic trip-hop-influenced loops... maybe they needed more simple, noisy guitars to get people moving at shows... shame that that takes priority over heartbreaking piano parts and insanely catchy melodies. Again, I'm glad Emily made that solo record.

Metric, go back to your roots. Longtime fans have missed you.

Dizzying!.......2007-01-10

Bought this record based on a quick recommendation from a friend--she thought I might like it (and she doesn't know my musical tastes all that well, either!), and she was RIGHT. Great thing to put in the player when cooking and cleaning, or for yelling out in the car. Bouncy, fresh, bright, disco-esque, quicktime. Even my husband is recommending LIVE IT OUT to pals, and he's anti-disco. I don't like to cheapen this group by likening them to ELASTICA, but the qualities in Elastica's tunes that I like are the same for METRIC. Fearless bass, tricky beats, uncommon lyrics, and those magical female vocals. Not one bummer tune in the bunch. Snatch it up!

Great background music for the urban Schmoozer.......2007-01-01

I bought the album after hearing Police and the Private on MSN music (MSN radio used to have such a great indie selection back in like 2002-4, then they lumped all the different genres of indie music together). Emily Haines' voice is good, but not great. She doesn't have much range, so you'll find that Police and the Private and Monster Hospital are the best tracks on this album. The songs on this album lack depth and are cheesy in a nouveau melodramatic way, and the use of french in the song "Poster of a Girl" is weak and cliche. On the positive side, the music has a great '80's-esque synth sound that has been popular lately, and the music is good party background music for today's hipster. Although, how hip can Metric be if they were showcased on Grey's Anatomy? It's your call. This is the only new/old wave-ish indie pop I own and I like it okay enough, but not enough to continue to delve into this genre, but I would listen to this album again.

Average customer rating: Hula with an R & B spin! Awesome for KIDS! Puts them to sleep! My Favorite CD Feel the Spirit of Aloha You've got to have this one!

Kawaipunahele Keali'i Reichel Manufacturer: Punahele Productions ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Facing Future E Ala E Alone in IZ World In Dis Life Ho'oluana ASIN: B000003ZVJ Release Date: 1997-04-22

Tracks:

1. Kawaipunahele
2. In My Life
3. Hanohano Ka Lei Pikake
4. If We Hold On Together
5. E Ho'i I Ka Pili
6. Wanting Memories
7. Kauanoeanuhea
8. Ku'u Wehi O Ke Aumoe
9. 'Akaka Falls
10. Pua Mikinolia
11. Come Sail Away
12. He Mele Inoa No Kawaipunahele

Customer Reviews:

Hula with an R & B spin!.......2007-05-13

I enjoyed the mix of traditional hula with some songs taking on an R & B spin.

Awesome for KIDS! Puts them to sleep!.......2006-03-19

I listened to this music (my daughter is half Hawaiian) when my daughter was a baby ten years ago and it would always soothe her and put her to sleep because it's so soothing and beautiful. Now, my son, when he teeths he is inconsolible! He will not stop for a bottle, to be rocked, sang to, put down in his bed, etc. But I play this, and not even 3 seconds later, he is on his way to la la land. It is wonderful. I recommend it to any parent! Or anyone who wants to de-stress.

My Favorite CD.......2006-02-17

Keali'i Reichel has such a nice mellow voice.
His Music is so soothing and Kawaipunahele is my favorite CD of his works!
Keali'i Reichel includes familar songs along with the Hawaiian theme that puts you in a very mellow mood.
Only wish I had this CD when my kids were all small.
I have bought two of this CD one I bought in Hawaii and this one I bought for my girlfriend because she drives a Limo and would use it in the Limo.

Feel the Spirit of Aloha.......2006-02-08

I bought this CD on Maui, listened to it while we were there, brought it home and listened to it and, thanks to the included lyrics, learned the words to all the songs. I don't speak much Hawaiian, but I now can sing some songs in Hawaiian. Keali'i Reichel has a wonderful voice, great talent, a love for Hawaiian traditions and his legacy, and I can feel the Spirit of Aloha as he sings the songs on this CD.

You've got to have this one!.......2005-08-30

As you know, all of Keali'i's CD's are recommended. This one was his debut CD, released in 1994. It features traditional Hawaiian favorites such as "Akaka Falls," as well as original compositions including "E Ho'i I Ka Pili," "Kauanoeanuhea," and the title track, "Kawaipunahele." It also contains cover versions of The Beatles' "In My Life" and Sticks' "Come Sail Away." Keali'i's chanting comes across at the beginning of "In My Life" and in the last track, "He Mele Inoa No Kawaipunahele." Be sure to pick this one up!

Average customer rating: THE BEST Kamahiwa Keali'i Rocked in a cradle of pure aloha Beautiful singing; great, relaxing CD

Kamahiwa: The Keali'i Reichel Collection Keali'i Reichel Manufacturer: Punahele Productions ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Maui In Dis Life Alone in IZ World Facing Future Honolulu: The 50 Greatest Hawai'i Albums of All Time ASIN: B000B9EYFM Release Date: 2005-10-25

Tracks:

1. Maunaleo
2. Hanohano Ka Lei Pikake
3. Lei Hali'a
4. Ipo Lei Momi
5. Ka Nohona Pili Kai
6. He Lei No Kamaile
7. Hanohano 'O Maui
8. Mele A Ka Pu'uwai
9. Ku'u Pua Mae 'Ole
10. Toad Song
11. Kawaipunahele
12. Kaiona
13. The Road That Never Ends

Tracks:

1. Mele Inoa No Kawaipunaheleopaliku
2. Maika'i Ka 'Oiwi O Ka'ala
3. 'Auhea Wale Ana 'Oe
4. Ka 'Opihi O Kanapou
5. No Ka Moku Kia Kahi Ke Aloha
6. Pule Ho'ao
7. Ka Mo'o Ku'Auhau O Kamaile Puhi Kane
8. He Lei No Kamaile
9. Lei Hana I Ka Makani Ua Lau'awa
10. Aia I Waiehu Pua Lokelani
11. Ho'i Au e Pili Me Ka'Uiki

Customer Reviews:

THE BEST .......2007-07-14

Keali'i Reichel Collection is probably the best of the Hawaiian music collection that I have. The music contained in KAMAHIWA is for listening and for dancing. I enjoy this CD so much as do my students.

Kamahiwa.......2007-06-27

Some of this music is great, but when songs are sung in English, they sound old fashioned and corny.

Keali'i.......2007-01-29

A fabulous collection. Extremely relaxing. Right after I get back or am traveling to Hawaii I play this in my car. Gets me really ready for a great trip.

Rocked in a cradle of pure aloha.......2006-07-12

This is the most wonderfully tender, majestic, spirited, magical album I've heard in years!

The CD of chants is amazing. If you're still sitting down after a track or two, and your mind isn't reeling with curiosity about the ancient culture of Hawaii, you might need antidepressants...or maybe just the other CD in the set.

The second CD is the most lovely collection of meles. Pure acoustic nurturance! Seriously, if life has you down, do yourself a huge favor - sit or lie down in a cozy spot, close your eyes, and listen to "Maunaleo," the first track...and be warned, you may not want to get moving again until the end of the album. It's too lovely to rush away from.

I can't say enough about this collection. In a nutshell, if you love exquisitely moving music, you cannot go wrong with this one.

Beautiful singing; great, relaxing CD.......2006-06-06

All my life, I wanted to visit Hawa'ii. On May 15th, 2006, I finally did (!), and the experience was even better than I had anticipated. What I did not anticipate, however, was how beautiful Hawa'iian music is. While driving around the island of Oahu (one of the more popular islands of Hawa'ii) and soaking in the sights, I would just listen to the radio and hum to the music.

Now I'm back in the mainland (Maryland,to be specific) wishing I could have stayed in that amazing place just a little longer. Yet, I did manage to bring some Hawa'iian music back home, and Kealii's cd is the most enjoyable, and the most relaxing, of all the music I brought back.

The 1st cd in Kealii's collection reminds me of the great people I got to meet while staying on the island. The music is warm, friendly, and sounds as if it is sung from the soul. The 2nd cd reminds me of the land itself, full of history and culture, impressive in it's majesty, yet respectful of the great ocean of the pacific. The chants on this cd are very impressive - they take you away.

Hawa'ii is a wonderful place, rich in culture; filled with gorgeous landscapes (and forests, and beaches, and oceans), friendly people, delicious food, and wonderful music. I recommend this cd to those looking for a taste of what that unforgettable island has to offer.

Average customer rating: the magic man Music For People Who Hate Music Hmmm soothing background music Hrmmm...

Classics in the Key of G Kenny G Manufacturer: Arista ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Moment Breathless Paradise At Last...The Duets Album Kenny G Live ASIN: B00000JCN8 Release Date: 1999-06-29

Tracks:

1. Summertime
2. The Look Of Love
3. What A Wonderful World
4. Desafinado
5. In A Sentimental Mood
6. The Girl From Ipanema
7. Stranger On The Shore
8. Body And Soul
9. Round Midnight
10. Over The Rainbow

Amazon.com essential recording

Offering a tribute to composers of previous generations, soprano saxophonist Kenny G uses his 11th career release to present his interpretations of various standards and assorted chestnuts from the past century. G's approach is as smooth and gentle as ever, and anyone in the market for mild-mannered, relaxing jazz should be satisfied with this package. Highlights include a slowly evolving version of George Gershwin's "Summertime," with George Benson on guitar, and a largely respectful rendering of Monk's "'Round Midnight." Subdued orchestral backing is used throughout the recording, and two vocal selections are included: a "duet" with the Louis Armstrong vocal track from "What a Wonderful World," and the subdued samba of "The Girl from Ipanema," which features singer Bebel Gilberto, daughter of the song's original vocalists. That selection is reprised instrumentally on an uncredited, nonindexed 11th track that is heard about 20 seconds after the conclusion of Harold Arlen's "Over the Rainbow." Languid listening from start to finish. --Terry Wood

Customer Reviews:

the magic man.......2007-01-12

love it, love it, love it!!! That's all I have to say!!

Music For People Who Hate Music.......2006-02-20

It's always close by, like the threat of nuclear war. In the frozen food section of your supermarket, in the elevator of your office building, wafting through the lobbies of hotels and corridors of conference centers. It bears an eerie resemblance to music, as wax fruit resembles something nourishing, as paintings of sad clowns with large liquid eyes and dogs playing poker resemble Guernica and Crows On A Wheatfield, as a lightning bug resembles lightning.

In a way, this is perhaps forgivable. Everything Henry Miller ever said about American bread is true, it's really unfit for anything except perhaps blotting up spilled ink. But there are those people who like bologna on Wonderbread, and why shouldn't they have their fun - or more properly - lack of fun? Perhaps Wonderbread is the only appropriate delivery mechanism for peanut butter and jelly. So be it.

In this context one can attempt to excuse the chain of albums churned out by Mr. G, like so many spiceless sausages. But one cannot forgive this. Here he approaches those who are far beyond being his betters, they're from a different dimension. To listen as KG addresses 'Round Midnight is to question the existence of God. A smooth jazz draft of Ipanema is rather like painting a polar bear in a snowstorm. But the height of impertinence and grandiosity is playing a duet with Satchmo. It was a tawdry bit of grandstanding when Natalie Cole did it with her dead father, but at least that was all in the family. Here it is a hideous attempt at bridging the gap that will forever separate the real from the really, really awful.

Hmmm.......2005-12-02

Kenny G is an awsome musician and i say its okay if you dont like is music. We are all entitled to our own opinions. But dont disrespect the person because thats what most of you did. If you find his music to be distasteful, then listen to those you know you like. point blank. and for those of you who said he should be ashamed because he dubbed his music over louis armstrong, he has nithing to be ashamed about.

soothing background music.......2005-08-07

This album seems to be irritating people for some reason. I disagree; it's good for trying to fall asleep or sitting in the tub. It's soothing that's the point. For dinner music I would pick something else though.

Hrmmm..........2005-06-18

Since my music and art teacher, who is actually a (very good) bassist, can hold a note on a trumpet in the same way Kenny G can hold it on the saxophone (circular-breathing), my music teacher is the best jazz musician ever and is better than the likes of Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Lee Morgan, and just about any other jazz musician there is. (Except for Kenny G because he can hold a note really long too)

End of discussion.

[/sarcasm]

Average customer rating: Even Southerners Love It Excellent first slack key purchase! Excellent!! Maika'i Nui Loa!! First ever Hawaiian GRAMMY AWARD WINNER!!

Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 Various Artists Manufacturer: Palm Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Slack Key Guitar Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 Soliloquy: Ka Leo O Loko Black Sand ASIN: B0000E3324 Release Date: 2003-10-28

Tracks:

1. Celtic Summer
2. Punahele
3. Nai'o
4. Kahealani
5. Circle Song
6. Anahea's Song
7. Julia's Whisper
8. Keiki Slack Key
9. Kanaka Nova
10. Jo Bo's Night
11. Hamakua Hale
12. Noe Noe Uakea
13. Paniolo Medley
14. Kiholo Moon

Album Description

**GRAMMY AWARD WINNING ALBUM** Ki ho'alu, or slack key refers to the altered tunings of the acoustic guitar that are unique to the musical heritage of Hawai'i. Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 was recorded in the heart of "Paniolo" (Hawaiian Cowboy) country where the slack key guitar style originated. This CD presents 10 extraordinary slack key artists, each with their own tuning and slack key style ranging from traditional to contemporary showing an evolution of this art form. Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 won the first ever Best Hawaiian Music Album Grammy at the 47th Annual Grammy Awards! It is the sequel to "Slack Key Guitar", a HOKU Award finalist and top selling CD on Palm Records.

Customer Reviews:

Even Southerners Love It.......2007-06-02

I have several slack key guitar CDs to include Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters volumes I and II, and Slack Key Guitar I. This CD is by far the best that I've collected so far. The reason being is that the aforementioned CDs include songs with chanting/singing. I love this CD because there are no vocals on it.

The music is all original and very calming. I live down in South Carolina and even the southerners love it. My boss asks me to play it whenever we have upper-class blue-blood clients.

It's nice to spread the aloha. This CD certainly does the trick.

Excellent first slack key purchase!.......2006-12-31

We first heard this CD when we were on a tour of Mauna Kea and fell in love with it! It is an excellent CD for anyone wanting to hear some of the best slack key guitar music for the first time. We highly recommend it to anyone wanting to expand their musical library.

Excellent!!.......2006-03-28

I LOVE this CD. It is relaxing, uplifting and warmly stirring.
I have given it as a gift and it was loved as well. If you like guitar you will love this!!

Maika'i Nui Loa!!.......2005-02-26

Beautiful~~ Soothing~~
What a thrill this CD won the Grammy for the first ever Hawaiian Music category. This CD features slack key guitarists who truly embody the beauty of all things Hawaiian. Their talent individually is incredible-- collectively it is mind boggling. If you've ever personally seen any of them play, you know what I mean. Slip this CD in the player, dim the lights, kick back and relax. Let these guys take over & you'll swear you feel the warm sun, hear the gentle waves rolling in, and see the beauty of the immense diversity of the countryside throughout the Hawaiian islands.

First ever Hawaiian GRAMMY AWARD WINNER!!.......2005-02-20

This is an excellent choice for you!! Recently noted as the FIRST EVER HAWAIIAN GRAMMY AWARD WINNER, you will love this album!! The soothing melodies of slack key will take your breath away.

Average customer rating: Great! Beautiful Hawaiian Mood Music Beautiful, Gentle, Waterborne Gentle Island sounds

Soliloquy: Ka Leo O Loko Keola Beamer Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Moe`uhane Kika: Tales From The Dream Guitar Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Black Sand Mauna Kea: White Mountain Journal Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 ASIN: B00005UK0Q Release Date: 2002-01-08

Tracks:

1. Pailolo
2. Kapaula Bay
3. Kaulana Na Pua
4. Kolowaka
5. Li'i's Song
6. Mino'aka
7. Moana's Laundry Basket
8. Nala Hala O Nuae
9. Wai Ulu
10. Pauahi O Kalani
11. Kawohikukapulani
12. The Myna Bird's Dobro
13. Papa's okolehau
14. Ka Makani 'Ula'ula
15. Pau Lili Lehua

Amazon.com

Of the slack-key guitarists that pianist George Winston has brought to light from Hawaii, the most eloquent and forward-looking is Keola Beamer, which is ironic given that Beamer's first album in 1973 was called Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar in the Real Old Style. There's nothing old about the music on Soliloquy. Unlike most of his brethren, Beamer rarely sings, and that seems to free him from the sometimes clichéd phrasing and melodies identified with Hawaiian music. Even without those signposts, however, Beamer's music is distinctly Hawaiian, beginning with the slack-key guitar. It's a standard acoustic guitar, but the strings are tuned lower--literally, slacker--than normal. It gives the guitar a lazy, wistful sound just shy of yearning. Soliloquy mixes Beamer's original compositions with traditional songs in unique arrangements, including some for two acoustic guitars. A bit more low key than his previous albums, and featuring more nylon than steel string, Soliloquy is a quiet meditation born from the idyllic environment of Hawaii. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Great!.......2007-04-06

I just set the player on repeat and listen to it for hours. Soothing music. Good to pay attention to or just let it be background music. This is a good CD to have.

Beautiful Hawaiian Mood Music.......2006-08-25

The playing is lovely, and will set a peaceful, relaxing Hawaiian tone wherever you listen to it.

Beautiful, Gentle, Waterborne.......2004-07-13

Infused with the islands - recreates them in sound. The perfect accompaniment to a day or evening on the water. This music gently, deeply sinks in. I'm buying another as a gift for a friend so I can get mine back!

Gentle Island sounds.......2002-12-03

Keola's latest release for George Winstons Dancing Cat Records is a wonderful, soothing, melodic trip through the Islands. There is no low point on the album, and as the songs all are of a quiet tempo with similiar feel, they flow together as a sort of Hawaiian slack guitar suite. Highly recommended! Also- if you get the chance- see Keola live. He puts on a super show.

Music Album:

1. The Little Darlin' Sound of Don Williams
2. The Magnificent Music Machine
3. The Man Who Would Be King: The Best of Orion
4. The Season for Romance
5. The Texas Fiddle Collection
6. The Truth About Men
7. Theatre of the Unheard
8. This Side [Hybrid SACD]
9. Those Tear Jerking Songs
10. Through The Years: A Retrospective [Box set]

Music Album