Outsider [Import]

Product Description
European Pressing. 'Outsider' features a total of 11 tracks including 'The Obscenity Prayer (Give It To Me)', 'Beautiful Despair', 'Ignorance Is The Enemy', 'Shelter From The Sun' & 'Glasgow Girl'. Sony. 2005.

Outsider,Rodney Crowell,Sony,Country/Bluegrass,Rock/Pop

Average customer rating: GARBAGE still shadow... A surprise on many levels DJ Shadow went Hyphy. Ouch....

The Outsider DJ Shadow Manufacturer: Umvd Labels ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Trip-Hop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music West Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Audience's Listening Funky Skunk Preemptive Strike The Information Game Theory ASIN: B000HCO8IG Release Date: 2006-09-19

Tracks:

1. Outsider Intro
2. This Time (I'm Gonna Try It My Way)
3. 3 Freaks - DJ Shadow/Keak Da Sneak/Turf Talk
4. Droop-E Drop
5. Turf Dancing
6. Keep Em Close
7. Seein' Thangs
8. Broken Levee Blues
9. Artifact (Instrumental)
10. Backstage Girl
11. Triplicate / Something Happened That Day
12. The Tiger
13. Erase You
14. What Have I Done
15. You Made It
16. Enuff
17. Dats My Part
18. 3 Freaks (Droop-E remix)

Customer Reviews:

GARBAGE.......2007-07-19

Pretentious soundscapes & terrible rhymes.
Instrumentals sound like Enya, the rhymes sound like Fred Durst.

Shadow must haves: Entroducing, Preemptive Strike, UNKLE-Psyence Fiction.
If you like beats-buy these albums.
If you're a hipster-buy The Outsider.

still shadow..........2007-07-08

all of you that think Shadow "sold out" or made a terrible album, you are obviously not listening to the actual music contained within this disc; you are just paying attention to the lyrical content. Shadow is a producer, not a rapper. keep this in mind and actually listen to the production on this album: it's sick. nobody can touch him when it comes to production, digging, sampling, arrangement, etc. if you aren't a fan of Shadow anymore because you don't like this album, then good riddance, we don't need people like you in the Shadow fan base anyway. also keep in mind that these are his roots and he wanted to make an album focused on Hyphie. i don't really care for this genre of music, but i can still appreciate this album for the masterful piece of work that it is.

A surprise on many levels.......2007-05-21

Okay first things first if you do not like hip hop/rap and you are looking for something reminiscent of Endtroducing or Private Press stop reading and move on.

I am a DJ Shadow/UNKLE fan. I have all of the albums and enjoy them all in their own ways. Now if you are looking for a an album that has a little hip hop/rap and is broad in the genres it delves into then perhaps this album is for you.

Musically, for the most part, this album will remind you that you are listening to DJ Shadow. It is a well balanced album which encompasses rock, blues, hip hop/rap and down tempo electronica. I will say that if when you hear hip hop/rap you think of MCs like Mos Def or Talib Kweli then this might not be for you. It is a bit closer to people like Trick Trick or the Eminem tracks where he collaborates with other hip hop artists.

Fo DJ Shadow fans this album, I think, is a must. This will help you gain a more understanding of what DJ Shadow is about musically. Touching into all of the styles that he seems to be influenced from and listens to. Which brings me to the order of the CD. The transitions overall are good. They lead you right into the next track.

In short DJ Shadow will surprise you with this album. He will bring on a roller coaster of sound which will leave you wanting to go again. Sure this is not your typical DJ Shadow. I like to think it is a bit more evolved. A blend of music bridging many genres and tempos. Dj Shadow and music fans apply within.

DJ Shadow went Hyphy........2007-03-30

Please understand that as far as Hyphy music goes, this is probably AMAZING. I just hate Hyphy. In fact, it's a furthering of the cheerleader rap that was made popular by people like 50 Cent who learned that it's easier to make money with somewhat simple beats, even simpler rhymes, and a "ghetto image" than it is to go with hard hitting quality rhymes (like he used to come with back in the day).

Respectfully, I understand why Shadow would go there with this album. He IS from the Bay Area, and this IS the type of music that has been coming out of the bay recently. Yes, you could say he was trying to make the best Hyphy album ever, and who am I to say this isn't it? The point I would make is that as opposed to following trends, historically, Shadow has CREATED them. Seriously. Endtroducing was GROUNDBREAKING. It was amazing, expansive, and an amazing composition. Does this album have issues because of that? Absolutely. Why? Because when you make something that can be considered "the standard" for music to come in your first album, then you're setting yourself up for failure in your sophomore set.

There are some good tracks on this album. I really liked "Backstage Girl" featuring Phonte of Little Brother, and the "instrumental" tracks had some serious promise, but Hyphy is not my gig and about 70% of this album is "hyphy" by definition. If that's your thing, then my opinion means nothing to you, and you should buy this album. If you're hoping for Endtroducing II (I wasn't even hoping for that, to tell the truth, but respectfully, that album's greatness makes this album seem horrible to me in comparison), then you're going to have to look somewhere else, cause that just isn't here. (Hell, you're better off with any of the RJD2 albums instead if you're looking for anything like that and I wouldn't even put them on that level, either)...

So I guess the bottom line is that I didn't like this album. I wouldn't recommend it unless I knew your tastes were based along the "hyphy" trend...

Ouch...........2007-02-24

I just wrote a great review for this album, but my computer decided to quit unexpectedly so I'll make this short. Find a way (legally ;) to only acquire these tracks- 2, 8, 9, 12-15. They're great and reminiscent of his deep moods and tastes for the ethereal. However, if you're unfortunate enought to hear any of the others, you'll want to have your brain whiped clean of any memory of it.

Basically DJ Shadow, who I used to never be able to shut up about, now has a bunch of parasites (sadly, even one is named "Droop-E," weak) clinging to him and begging him for exposure. Somehow legend Q-Tip wanted to involve himself, which I'll never understand. So anyway, since DJ Shadow is a nice guy, he took 15 minutes to make tracks for them to rap over. This explains the rest of the album. So you have my advice, and I hope your curiousity or disbelief will not lead you to explore beyond the tracks I've listed, as you may fall off a cliff and into the dark endless chasm of wasted talent (although you can say hello to dj shadow, I hear he's down there somewhere trying to climb back out).

Average customer rating: The only Insider who is an Outsider A songwriter's songwriter. An ear for hooks and a sharp tongue for the times His best yet A Modern Day Profit

The Outsider Rodney Crowell Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Fate's Right Hand Black Cadillac The Essential Rodney Crowell The Houston Kid All the Roadrunning ASIN: B000A2EKLI Release Date: 2005-08-16

Tracks:

1. Say You Love Me
2. The Obscenity Prayer
3. The Outsider
4. Dancin' Circles Round The Sun (Epictetus Speaks)
5. Beautiful Despair
6. Don't Get Me Started
7. Ignorance Is The Enemy
8. Glasgow Girl
9. Things That Go Bump In The Night
10. Shelter From The Storm
11. We Can't Turn Back Now

Amazon.com

Rodney Crowell's on a roll. The Outsider may be a cut below its predecessor, the artistic, critical, and commercial breakthrough that was Fate's Right Hand--perhaps the element of surprise is gone, perhaps the songs aren't quite as sharp, perhaps it's just not possible to catch lightning in a bottle twice in a row--but that was a tough act to follow, and this one's none too shabby. It's his most topical effort yet. After teaching a generation how to write modern country songs, Crowell, it turns out, all along really just wanted to rock. Rockin' Rodney employs guitars that ring, spring, crunch, and snarl, and writes songs full of Dylanesque lyrics (only the portentous and cornball "Ignorance Is the Enemy" falls flat). In fact, he's so under the sway of Bobby D. that he name-checks the man in "Beautiful Despair" and, with the help of Emmylou Harris, turns Dylan's "Shelter from the Storm" into such a moving duet that the very idea seems like a no-brainer. Why hadn't somebody thought of it sooner? --John Morthland

Customer Reviews:

The only Insider who is an Outsider.......2007-01-26

Rodney Crowell has the nerve to say what needs to be said and he does it beautifully. He speaks on so many levels with his music that it will appeal to everyone. Not country, not pop. Just good, soulful music.

A songwriter's songwriter........2006-06-10

If you have never seen this man perform live you are missing one of the greatest living performers of Americana music. Everyone leaves the show smiling. He utilizes the absolute best musicians and exudes charm and goodwill. The Outsider, third of the trilogy, combines a bit more politics than usual and was out prior to some of the same sentiments expressed by Bruce, Neil, and others. This album may take a little longer to grow on you but it will be music you will keep playing for a long time ( as is typical of most Rodney Crowell albums). Rodney is always breaking new ground in his writing and The Outsider is just the latest chapter, don't expect the same the next time!

An ear for hooks and a sharp tongue for the times.......2006-02-01

The first six songs of this album are as hook-laden and catchy as anything by today's teen queens, but that's where the comparison ends, because Rodney Crowell's lyrics are unusual and his voice has a frequently noticeable twang that, unlike many of today's country stars, is unaffected and natural. Since country has increasingly become pop, you would think that this album would have been enthusiastically embraced by country radio, but this is the third of a series of Crowell albums in which he delves into subjects and areas that reflect his personal beliefs, so while the music may be in tune with Big & Rich, the lyrics are as far from Toby Keith as you can get.

I first discovered Crowell with his breakup (from Rosanne Cash) album, Life is Messy, and enjoyed it because it used the tropes of country music (steel guitar, a singer with a drawl, distinct lyrics that seem as if they are spoken directly to you) but didn't pander. Like Lyle Lovett and Dwight Yoakam, Crowell was unusual and the very fact that he didn't fit within mainstream country made his songs much more interesting to me. That album marked his first departure from Nashville, where he had made a name for himself as a songwriter and producer. I have no idea if this was an intentional break, or if it just grew organically from life events, but no matter, it was the stuff of good albums. I picked up his greatest hits collection, which was okay, but much too like the others songs of its era, and not as unusual as Life is Messy.

I had forgotten about Crowell until recently when I heard a new song of his on a local indepenent radio station and realized that he was back, and back with the kind of songs that I was looking for. Appropriately enough, the song was "The Outsider," from the album of the same name. The music on this song has a soul feel, slightly funky, with a horn section in the middle. Crowell's lyrics are clever, a repetition of what you can or can't be, culminating in the chorus that celebrates those who would hang out on the fringes. What better song to encapsulate what I had found interesting about Crowell originally? And yet the song also is a paeon to those who speak out with minority opinions, mirroring the dissent of those against the current goverment administration and media conglomerates. From that song alone, I knew I needed this album.

The first song, "Say You Love Me," is probably the most country-pop of the album, a bouncy ditty that is infectious, with a multi-voiced chorus yelling "Say" that sounds like everyone is having lots of fun. The lyrics aren't sublime, but they don't need to be, because this is a love song that is an anti-ballad: rather than crooning up at her balcony, Crowell is dancing up to his partner and inviting her to join him. Track 2 is the most unusual song of the album, "The Obscenity Prayer," a prayer from the standpoint of the most vain, self-absorbed American imaginable (i.e., a Young Republican). The chorus is a call and response of "give it to me" followed by "give it, give it, give it, give it." The best line is "the Dixie Chicks can kiss my ass/but I still need that backstage pass," capturing perfectly the inconsistency of those who were offended by the Dixie Chicks criticism of the government at the same time that the Dixie Chicks had the number one album in the land.

Other songs continue this mixture of political commentary and bright, breezy melodies. "Dancin' Circles Round the Sun (Epictetus Speaks)," is another fast moving song whose lyrics are positive encouragment to keep on keepin' on by explaining that we're all circlin' the sun together. The first time I heard "Beautiful Despair" I wasn't sure I cared for, but on repeated listens it has gotten its hooks into me. It's in a minor key and isn't nearly as fast as the previous six songs, signaling a shift in the albums mood, and has a break in the middle where Crowell's voice is joined by a female voice in an a cappella repetition of the title. "Don't Get Me Started" returns to the political theme of the album, but is solidly from the personal viewpoint of Crowell, wherein he alternates between itemizing the problems that he sees and warns that this listing is nothing--you really don't want him to get going with his full opinion of what's going on. I probably dislike "Ignorance is the Enemy" the most--unlike the other songs, its political opinions are done in a series of guest-voice spoken word lectures and comes across as more pedantic than personal, even for someone like myself who agrees with the sentiments. The sung sections are beautiful, though, in their gospel-like harmony.

"Glasgow Girl" is unusual in its celebration of Scotland--in fact, I'd love if this started a trend of country music about countries outside the U.S. It's a simple story song of a Texan who is searching for the girl that he met once and wants to find again, but the music is sweet and the affection seems genuine. "Things That Go Bump in the Day" channels John Hiatt in both its dirty electric guitar over smooth rhythm section and lyrics that work off a central play on words. The only cover song, and true duet (with Emmylou Harris), on the album is "Shelter From the Storm," which I like much more than Bob Dylan's original, if only because Crowell and Harris have voices that aren't nearly as nasal or annoying. In fact, without the distraction of Dylan's delivery, I was finally able to hear and understand the lyrics and enjoy them. The final song is "We Can't Turn Back," which is somewhat like "The Outsider" in its lyrical structure, but instead of focusing on those on the outside, it encourages those within to hold to their principles and not let actions modify what they believe or stand for. It's a nice way to end an album that is alternatively strident and sweet, a melange of wit and wisdom that is worthwhile on the basis of the fact that Crowell undercuts his preachiness by constantly reminding you that this is just him talking. That personal touch gives each song, and the album, a center to which the opinions can be heard, and an alternative to the shouting heads of TV news talk who never qualify their statements. Perhaps if Bill O'Reilly could hold a tune, he'd sound more reasonable, but somehow I doubt it.

His best yet.......2006-01-10

I can't rate this one highly enough. It's certainly in a vein with his last couple, but, as has been oft noted, it's more political and full of social commentary. Some people will like it a little less than the two preceding ones, as a result. I expected to have that reaction, but I found the socially conscious elements surprisingly compelling after all, and Rodney melds them well with his more personal insights, which ultimately predominate in the end. Also, focusing on the social commentary can obscure the fact that a good number of these songs are just a lot of fun, like a slightly angrier and more introspective version of the wonderful stuff he did with the Notorious Cherry Bombs.

By the way, if you like this album, you may want to pick up the book "Rednecks & Bluenecks: The Politics of Country Music." It's not just about the country you hear on the radio but also alternative country and Americana. And Rodney shows up prominently throughout the book; there's a whole section just about this album.

A Modern Day Profit.......2006-01-04

If Rodney Crowell did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him. Time
and again he has infused country music with a jolt of creativity that shakes
it up and creates something new. Now he has taken his innovative spirit and
applied it to alt-country and punk-a-billy, fusing them and pushing them
both through the past and the future. Drawing influence from everyone from
The Beatles and The Cowsills, to earlier versions of himself to Bob Wills to
BR-459, to The Ramones he pushes past the sounds we are used to hearing on
alt-country radio and creates a bouncy, swingy punk-country all his own.
The Outsider is a comfortable and refreshing soundtrack to the new musical,
spiritual and political revolutions.
The album opens with "Say You Love Me," a fun and saucy look at unrequited
love that captures the tempo if not the essence of the album. This is
followed by a seething rant against contemporary apathy and consumerism,
"Obscenity Prayer" which finds Crowell wearing the skin of today's
contemporary mainstream public figures as he snarls "you expect me to show
some compassion/man, that's so out of fashion." Next comes "the Outsider, "
an almost 60's styled anthem encouraging the listener to embrace the
other-ness in themselves and others because "we don't have to find a
permanent bliss/but we gotta do better than this." This segues to the
freewheeling and joyous "Dancing Circles Round the Sun." "Beautiful despair
is hearing Dylan when you're drunk at 3 am/Knowing that no matter what
you'll never write like him," Crowell explains as he sinks into the lush
melody of "Beautiful Despair." "Don't Get Me Started" replays the sort of
cuff rant started by a casual remark in a bar, which allows Crowell to open
with "I was born in America/and I'm proud of that fact/I wish the rest of
the world would get off our backs" before pointing out the miseries being
visited on American by Americans and closing the problems of East Timor
where he points out "when the coalition army doesn't come to your aid/you
might as well face it there's no money to be made." "Ignorance Is the
Enemy" is a simple, elegant hymn for understanding, featuring striking
spoken verses from Emmylou Harris and John Prine. "Glasgow Girl " is a
sumptuous travel log which brings to mind the new romanticism of the early
80's and possibly marks Crowell as the first country artist to work The
Firth of Fourth into a lyric. "Things That Go Bump In The Day" is fun and
bouncy ballad of looking back with regret. One of the highlights, on an
album that seems to contain little else, is the powerful duet rendering of
Dylan's "Shelter From the Storm" with Emmylou Harris. Crowell brings the
album to a close with the Stanley-meets-Parson's tune, "We Can't Turn Back
Now," and uplifting, poetic song about clinging to truth and fighting for
it.
The Outsider is the latest dark and lovely work by country music's poet
laureate Rodney Crowell. A staunchly liberal and humanist work, this album
examines what it means to be both of those things in a country that
appreciates neither. He sears his way through a nation of apathy with an
album that reminds us all that true art comes from the sharpest edges of
feeling, be it Miles Davis, Nostradamus, Jethro Tull or Rodney Crowell.
Ultimately, timely and timeless, Crowell marks himself as one of the true
chroniclers of the modern era.

Average customer rating: Delicate..yet, haunting.. Sweet Quick arrival but product was slightly damanged It was OK, but could have been a lot better Good, except for a few small things

The String Quartet Tribute to a Perfect Circle Maynard James Keenan , Jim McMillen , Jim McMillen , and Josh Freese Manufacturer: Vitamin Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Post Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Tributes | Pop | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Anotomica: The String Quartet Tribute to Tool The Piano Tribute to Tool String Tribute to Tool Metamorphic: The String Quartet Tribute to Tool, Vol. 2 A Perfect Circle - aMOTION (with CD) ASIN: B000255K8A Release Date: 2004-06-01

Tracks:

1. Outsider
2. Judith
3. 3 Libras
4. Magdalena
5. Weak and Powerless
6. Hollow
7. Orestes
8. Noose
9. Rose
10. Blue
11. Gravity
12. Tangent

Product Description

1. Judith
2. 3 Libras
3. The Hollow
4. Magdalena
5. Rose
6. Orestes
7. Weak And Powerless
8. Blue
9. The Noose
10. The Outsider

Bonus Tracks:
11. Gravity
12. Fork (Original Composition)

Format: CD

Customer Reviews:

Delicate..yet, haunting.........2006-03-18

At first, i was hesitant on how i was going to enjoy this cd, but before i knew it, i was singing all the words along..and opera-style at that!
This is a really great cd, it's so beautiful, and delicate, you can feel every ounce of passion, the strings are amazing!
I highly recommend this cd, especially if you are a big fan of the band.

Sweet.......2005-10-19

I've always liked A Perfect Circle. This has got to be one of the best CD's i've heard in a long time. The instrumentation is very precise and is very well done. Hearing my favorite songs through strings is one of the coolest things i've ever heard.
If you don't like classical music, give it a shot anyway. I highly recommend it.

Quick arrival but product was slightly damanged.......2005-09-08

The CD arrived in a cracked case and appeared to have some scratches on it. This may have been from previous use, or it could have been from shipping. However the CD did work correctly after some light cleaning.

It was OK, but could have been a lot better.......2005-04-26

I'll start by saying that there are parts of this CD that shine. 3 Libras is probably one of the most beautiful songs ever written. Orestes is right up there with it. It would be pretty difficult to screw these up when arranging them to a string quartet, so these are just wonderful. Songs like "The Outsider," however, just sound butchered. The performers try to make it loud and in doing so, it's out of tune and it sounds like a beginner hacking away at their violin. The sound is just ugly and isn't musical at all. Other tracks like "Weak and Powerless" sound like the violin needs to be taken down about two octaves. If you want to know what I'm talking about, think of Mariah Carey singing it. One other thing that drives me nuts on this CD is how the backbeats are replaced. The backbeats, for those of you that are unfamilliar with music terms, is where you would clap your hands to the song. These are replaced by single, loud notes on the cello, and sound like the hacking I mentioned earlier. Overall, though, I absolutely love the idea, but it just has a few shortcomings that make this unpleasant to listen to.

Good, except for a few small things.......2004-08-26

The first time I popped this CD into my player, I was expecting something amazing, being the owner of both of Tool's String Tributes as well as both Mer de Noms and The Thirteenth Step. I was so excited when I found out about this I ran to Circuit City ASAP to see if they had it - of course they didn't so I ordered here. Well, to put it bluntly, it is an amazing album; true thought and ingeniuty must have been put into these arrangements that don't leave out a single instrument - including the drums which are rendered by the contrabass and the violins as snares in songs such as The Outsider and Weak and Powerless. Even the original composition, Tangent, is a good arrangement.

However, there are a few small things that I didn't enjoy. The Noose is ruined by the electronics that can barely be heard on the first verse. The original was such a great song and it was probably the one song I wanted to hear the most, but I was disappointed with it. Also, in Weak and Powerless, after it gets quiet and starts up again, a mild phaser and panner effect are used - not that it doesn't sound neat, but it just kind of takes you by surprise, and for me it was a negative surprise. It does grow on you though.

Other than those two small things, it is an excellent album. Definately buy it if you're hardcore into APC, or even if you're just a casual listener with a keen ear for traditional arrangements.

Average customer rating: Except for the grace of God... an amazin album Songs in the Key of Z: It's the Real Thing, Baby You can never please anybody in this world worlds but A World

Songs in the Key of Z: The Curious Universe of Outsider Music Various Artists Manufacturer: Gammon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Songs in the Key of Z, Vol. 2: The Curious Universe of Outsider Music Songs in the Key of Z: The Curious Universe of Outsider Music Incredibly Strange Music, Vol. 2 Philosophy Of The World American Song-Poem Anthology ASIN: B00006NSX1 Release Date: 2002-09-15

Tracks:

1. The Shaggs -- "Philosophy of the World"
2. Daniel Johnston -- "Walking the Cow"
3. Lucia Pamela -- "Walking on the Moon"
4. Peter Grudzien -- "Star Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere"
5. Jack Mudurian -- "Downloading the Repertoire" (excerpt)
6. Shooby Taylor, the Human Horn -- "Stout-Hearted Men"
7. B.J. Snowden -- "In Canada"
8. Eilert Pilarm -- "Jailhouse Rock"
9. Song-poem -- "Virgin Child of the Universe"
10. Wesley Willis -- "Rock n' Roll McDonald's"
11. Joe Meek -- "Telstar" (demo)
12. Sri Darwin Gross -- "At the Grass Roots"
13. Congress-Woman Malinda Jackson Parker -- "Cousin Mosquito #1"
14. Luie Luie -- "El Touchy"
15. The Legendary Stardust Cowboy -- "Standing in a Trash Can (Thinking About You)"
16. Captain Beefheart & The Magic Band -- "Vampire Suite"
17. Arcesia -- "Butterfly Mind"
18. Jandek -- "They Told Me I Was a Fool"
19. "Dusty Roads" Rowe -- "Baby, Your Love's In Town"
20. Tiny Tim (with Miss Sue) -- "True Love"

Amazon.com

This collection is a companion to Irwin Chusid's book of the same name. It celebrates outsider music, music "so wrong it's right," and if you're drawn to sounds that make you wonder just what the musician was thinking, this collection is for you. The compilation is enthusiastically, if not always respectfully, annotated by Chusid. His selections range from the output of blissfully un-self-aware but basically functional individuals to the certifiably insane. Among the former are Lucia Pamela, an Ethel Merman sound-alike who contributes an infectiously enthusiastic celebration of "Walking on the Moon," and Congress-Woman Malinda Jackson Parker, a late Liberian lawmaker whose "Cousin Mosquito #1" cautioned against contracting insect-borne disease. The latter include Daniel Johnson, whose "Walking the Cow" weds a sublime melody to puzzling lyrics and a toy keyboard arrangement, and Wesley Willis, who pays tribute to Chicago's "Rock 'n' Roll McDonald's." Some of the artists are quite famous (Tiny Tim), some anonymous (the unknown writer and performers of song-poem "Virgin Child of the Universe")--they're united by their blithe certitude that the world needed to hear their unlikely but singular creations. --Bill Meyer

Album Description

"OUTSIDER MUSIC" refers to a genre of sonic exotica that in some ways is so wrong -- it's right! Outsiders could be the product of supernatural possession, damaged DNA, drug fry, psychosis -- or none of the above. These often self-taught artists may lack conventional tunefulness and self-awareness, but they display an abundance of earnestness and passion. And they're worth listening to, often surpassing all contenders for inventiveness and originality.

This CD is a counterpart to the book SONGS IN THE KEY OF Z: THE CURIOUS UNIVERSE OF OUTSIDER MUSIC (A Cappella Books/Chicago Review Press), and it was produced by the author, Irwin Chusid. The text explores such avatars of outré sonics as The Shaggs, Daniel Johnston, Harry Partch, Syd Barrett, the Song-Poem industry, Jandek, the Cherry Sisters, Captain Beefheart, Florence Foster Jenkins, Wesley Willis, Wild Man Fischer, and countless other musical eccentrics with cult followings.

This CD features songs by artists profiled in the book. From the uninhibited howling of the Legendary Stardust Cowboy to the arrested-adolescent passion of Daniel Johnston; the LSD-cabaret crooning of Arcesia to Joe Meek's rare, wobbly "Telstar" vocal demo; the Shaggs aboriginal backwoods rock to Lucia Pamela's vertigo-bent outer space lunacy -- SONGS IN THE KEY OF Z promises an unforgettable romp through music too strange for radio but too fascinating to ignore.

For more information on the artists featured on this CD, buy the book (available on Amazon.com). Then behold the magic, the visionary nature of outsider sonics. You may never want to come back inside again.

Customer Reviews:

Except for the grace of God..........2006-07-06

Here is music from blessed retards and mentally ill people from around the "World" (most from the U.S.) There is also music from individuals that fall somewhere between retardation and mental illness, as well as a few that fall between the cracks in the cracks. _ I love this album. _ It's slightly more tasteful than a freak show, and a lot more tasteful than Maury Povich. Some songs blow in my opinion, but that's true of almost any album.... Final statement: Unless you are outstandingly boring and dull-witted, you will really like some of these tracks. Take the trip; it's worth the money!

an amazin album.......2005-03-12

thank god that somebody sat down and put these gems together. They shine like rare diamonds in a musical climate that is becoming all the more narrow and predictable. Buy this album. You will not be dissapointed

Songs in the Key of Z: It's the Real Thing, Baby.......2004-03-18

About a million years ago, when our far-from-human ancestors were still huddling together in a damp hole in the ground, picking lice from each other's armpits, music was born. Those peabrained hominids found they enjoyed barking and howling at the moon together, harmonizing as it were, and gradually incorporated a whole range of yelps, shrieks, farts and belches---which they could and did perform for the sheer exhilaration of the act. Yeah, this was the essential music, the primal music, with a weight and currency all its own, long before the spoken word polluted our ears. So, here we are a million years later, and we've forgotten the primal origin of music, it's been bred out of us---now we PAY a relative handful of polished schmucks to serenade us, because we fear that our own music, our own barking & yelping frenzy, is somehow unworthy. And this is what we now call the REAL world. Thank Christ for schizophrenia... Indeed, only a complete retreat from "reality" can deliver us to the roots of REAL music---and this is where I finally get around to endorsing "Songs in the Key of Z"... This is the real thing, baby, unencumbered by social dictates, false morality, political agendas... My most excellent advice: Don't try to rationalize the contents of this album WHATSOEVER. Don't just TRY to sing along, but really get INTO it, and howl your ass off if it feels good. Rock over London, Rock on Chicago, Northwest Airlines: Some People Just Know How To Fly.

You can never please anybody in this world.......2004-01-16

This is a great introduction to the world of "Outsider" music (term coined by Irwin Chusid). This CD is the audio counterpart to the book of the same title. Outsider musicians play their own unique music, and they all sound different from each other, so there are many different styles here. Personally, I like all of the performances here, but I may be in the minority there. If you like music that is "different", you should definitely give this CD a listen.

worlds but A World.......2004-01-01

Sometimes we are so accustomed to MUSIC big companies made for us. I think it's not too bad for us to listen to something different. If you wanna know what music but MUSIC is. Go out and buy it! You will know there are many worlds in our only one WORLD.

Average customer rating: Remembering Past Enchantments And Past Ills Delightful scores from Ennio Morricone

An Ennio Morricone Anthology: All Music Composed & Conducted By Ennio Morricone - From The EMI General Music Vaults Manufacturer: Drg ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Soundtracks | Box Sets | Stores | Music General | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Ennio Morricone - Film Music, Vol.1 Film Music, Vol. 2 Very Best of Ennio Morricone Ennio Morricone, Vol.3: Main Titles With Love: Music Composed & Conducted By ASIN: B000000PIZ Release Date: 1995-09-19

Tracks:

1. The Lady Caliph
2. Women at the River
3. Without Apparent Motive
4. Night Search
5. A Friend
6. The Ballad of Hank McCain
7. Rosemary
8. God With Us
9. What Am I Doing?
10. Like Maddalena
11. Moscow Farewell
12. Amusing Diversion
13. End Credits
14. A Neighborhood Song
15. The Wind, The Shout
16. My Name Is Nobody
17. March in F
18. The Unholy Three
19. Dedication
20. Belinda May
21. Lullaby in Blue
22. Companeros

Tracks:

1. Slalom
2. Sestriere
3. Viva la revolucion
4. Chi mai
5. A Far Away Italy
6. To Forget Palermo
7. Three Columns on Front Page
8. The Lamb is Going to Die?
9. Song of Nostalgia
10. This Kind of Love
11. To the People of Parma
12. A Little Bitter Irony
13. Place of Spain
14. Reason, Heart, Love
15. Veruschka
16. The Cousin
17. The Hellbenders
18. To Serenity
19. The Venetian Woman
20. Western?
21. Theme for a Woman Alone
22. Castles in Scotland
23. The Outsider

Customer Reviews:

Remembering Past Enchantments And Past Ills.......2004-06-07

Few composers outside of the classical canon have expressed the ineffable as beautifully as Ennio Morricone. The Italian Morricone, who has written scores of wildly varying quality for over 400 films, came to international prominence with and is still best - known in America for his "Spaghetti Western" scores of several classic Sergio Leone films of the Sixties, such as A Fistful of Dollars (1964), The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly (1966), and Once Upon A Time In The West (1969).

With the Leone scores, Morricone created musical pieces structured like complex mathematical equations, many of which were suffused with a driving, hypnotic, and archetypal power. In fact, the soundtrack for The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly was so dramatically dynamic that it thoroughly outstripped the finished film in terms of imaginative potential. Only with Once Upon A Time In The West did Leone create a film well crafted and realized enough to match Morricone's entrancing, playful, and occasionally perditious score. Similarly, Dario Argento's The Bird With The Crystal Plumage (1969) almost completely failed to utilize Morricone's contribution, the best portions of which were heard only dimly and sporadically in the finished film. Leone's late masterpiece, Once Upon A Time In America (1984), two - thirds a perfect film, also failed to fully rise to the occasion of Morricone's simultaneously poignant, wistful, and wonderfully exuberant score.

Today, Morricone's work is available on literally hundreds of soundtracks and soundtrack compilations dedicated to the composer, very few of which are entirely satisfying. An Ennio Morricone Anthology (1995), which contains 45 tracks from 39 films produced in Italy from 1965 onward, perpetuates this frustrating tradition.

Of the 45 tracks, about a third represent Morricone realizing or approaching the height of his talent, another third are fairly interesting but ultimately repetitious and self-cannibalizing, and the final third, which may have worked reasonably well within the context of the films they were written for, never rise above the status of shrill, discordant, and bellowing kitsch (several attempt a Henry Mancini - like levity and fall flat). In fact, there is a great deal of healthy, raw, and leveling vulgarity even in some of Morricone's most famous compositions, such as "Le Vent, Le Cri" from 1981's The Professional and "Chi Mai" from 1971's Maddalena, both of which are included.

Those seeking haunting compositions on the scale of "L'Estasi Dell 'Oro" or "Il Triello" from The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly or "Poverty" from Once Upon A Time In America will be disappointed to find very few pieces approaching their caliber here, especially if already familiar with such well - known pieces such as "Moscow Farewell" from the 1987 film of the same name or the otherworldly "Il Gatto A Nove Code" from The Cat O' Nine Tails (1971).

As compositions of vastly different quality are interspersed amongst one another in dizzying array, many may find An Ennio Morricone Anthology virtually impossible to listen to from beginning to end without skipping tracks repeatedly. As a genius whose greatest compositions address both the immanent and the transcendent, both perdition and salvation, both the archaic and the modern, Morricone and his admirers deserve a more carefully selected and thoughtfully produced anthology than this haphazard collection offers.

Delightful scores from Ennio Morricone.......1998-12-19

Few composers in film music today are as greatly admired as Ennio Morricone whose scores for a wide range of screen fares and many Oscar nominations and wins have attracted the attention of fans all over the world. This compilation is one of the best and contains very fine original musics and rare tracks of this Italian composer.

Average customer rating: Outsider Music- Curly Toes You are driving me mad Amaizingly addictive Takes Your Breath Away I love it!

Songs in the Key of Z, Vol. 2: The Curious Universe of Outsider Music Various Artists Manufacturer: Gammon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Novelty Music | Comedic Music | Comedy | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Songs in the Key of Z: The Curious Universe of Outsider Music Songs in the Key of Z: The Curious Universe of Outsider Music Philosophy Of The World American Song-Poem Anthology Incredibly Strange Music, Vol. 2 ASIN: B000077SX3 Release Date: 2002-10-29

Tracks:

1. Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing - Shooby Taylor
2. You're Out of the Computer - Bingo Gazingo & My Robot Friend
3. America - B. J. Snowden
4. You're Driving Me Mad - Alvin Dahn
5. Cousin Mosquito #2 - Congress-Woman Malinda Jackson Parker
6. I Had Too Much To Dream Last Night - The Space Lady
7. Touch of Light - Luie Luie
8. Curly Toes - anon.
9. Stepping High Dance - Eddie Murray
10. Five Feet Nine and a Half Inches Tall (song-poem) - Dick Kent
11. Recitation About Roy Acuff - Gary Mullis
12. Deep Bosom Woman - Wayne
13. High Speed - Bob Vido
14. The Herma, Scene 5: Recitation/An - Thoth
15. Jet Lady - Tangela Tricoli
16. The Birthmark Song - Buddy Max
17. Heart of the Heartland - Mark Kennis

Customer Reviews:

Outsider Music- Curly Toes.......2005-06-07

This is one outstanding album. Curly Toes, by anonymous, is the best one. Definitely recommended. I'd give it a 10, but that wasn't an option. Also, if you like this try The Annoying Music CD.

You are driving me mad.......2004-05-30

This second volume of "outsider music" is, if anything, even stranger than the first volume. The performers are more obscure than the ones on the first CD. Very few of them had big write-ups in the "Songs in the Key of Z" book. If you don't know what "outsider music" is, I recommend getting the book. Anyway, these performers are definitely outsiders. They all have their own unique styles. All of the songs here are interesting (some more so than others). If you are interested in music that is "out there", you should check out this CD.

Amaizingly addictive.......2004-05-14

If you're looking for silly slapstick songs that are intentionally written to be funny...this is not for you. This is peoples' art, from their soul and expelled for all to enjoy. The humor lies in the fact that the artists are unaware that their music FAR exceeds the boundries of conventional song writing. It is far more entertaining from a psychological standpoint than a musical one.

Takes Your Breath Away.......2003-09-06

This CD is a real prize. I loved the first Key of Z CD (and book) and, if anything, this one is even stranger. I hope that there will be several more volumes in the Key of Z to come. The music on this CD is absolutely mesmerizing. There are a few standouts in my mind on the CD. I don't really even know where to start, but I will mention a few outstanding songs. The darker and longer "Cousin Mosquito #2" is very interesting, yet doesn't quite come up to the version on Volume one. My favorites are, in no particular order: "The Birthmark Story" by Buddy Max, which tells the story of a man trying to talk an Army doctor into cutting off a birthmark in Korea. The material is questionable at best. It must be heard to be believed. Mark Kennis "sings" a song called "Heart of the Heartland." It is an a cappella song about growing up in Iowa. A person named "Wayne" sings a song called "Deep Bosom Woman" which I will not try to describe, other than to say, that Wayne, whoever he is, may be the least competent singer and composer that I have ever heard (yes, I include 'The Shaggs' here). I am also very fond of "You're Driving Me Mad" and "High Speed" (done by one man band Bob Vido). You may want to have something strong to drink before you try "Jet Lady," which I find very difficult to deal with. Also, please insert earplugs before attempting the nearly unlistenable "Curly Toes," which I is a half spoken 'song' about, you guessed it, curly toes. At least it is honest about itself. You will also learn how tall Dick Kent is by the end of the experience. I won't spoil the surprise, but the song in which the secret is revealed is a work of musical genius.

I save for last my personal pick for Best of the Best. Who else could it be but Shooby Taylor? This half scat-half carnival music insanity is one of the most lyrically beautiful songs ever recorded in the Key of Z and justifies the price of the CD by itself. You owe it to yourself to hear the great Shooby sing this all time classic. Do yourself a huge favor and get this today.

I love it!.......2003-08-29

If you're open minded & want some real alternative music (I don't mean 'alternative' in the Nirvana sense of the word. That's mainstream now) buy this compilation. If you can't appreciate Shooby Taylor, Buddy Max & Dick Kent I truly pity you.

Average customer rating: A BRASS CITY MASTERPIECE the Singles

13 Years of Forced Reality Forced Reality Manufacturer: Outsider Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Punk Revival | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B00004U9S3 Release Date: 2000-05-14

Tracks:

1. BACKBREAKER
2. FELON LOVE
3. NEVER FORGET
4. THE FLAG IS MINE
5. YOUR MONEY YOUR LIFE
6. BLOOD IS THICKER THAN WATER
7. 15 PINTS (AND I'M STILL STANDING
8. WE'RE NOT ALONE
9. BROTHERHOOD
10. MAMA TRIED

Album Description

8 of the songs were recorded live at WMBR on Nancy's radio show one night. Includes different versions of the original songs on the Patriot Records debut. 2 additional songs from the band were taped at Trod Nossel Studios. Features a killer Merle Haggard cover of 'Mama Tried'

Customer Reviews:

A BRASS CITY MASTERPIECE.......2003-11-14

this is a great cd.anyone who is into punk,oi!,whatever..will love this!! listen to the guitar work on "felon love" and "your money your life" ....great!! "felon love" is studio i believe and "your money your life" is live and has the greatest guitar solo in the history of music!!!.....GET IT NOW!!

'

the Singles.......2001-08-12

this is the latest singles collection that i have been listening to lately. i can not seem to get away from it. Play it dam_it!!

Average customer rating:

Outsider DJ Shadow Manufacturer: Universal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Trip-Hop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music West Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Dance & DJ | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B000HEZ4B4 Release Date: 2006-10-02

Tracks:

1. Outsider Intro
2. This Time (I'm Gonna Try It My Way)
3. 3 Freaks (Feat. Keak Da Sneak & Turf Talk)
4. Droop-E Drop
5. Turf Dancing (Feat. The Federation & Animaniaks)
6. Keep Em Close (Feat. Nump)
7. Seein Thangs (Feat. David Banner)
8. Broken Levee Blues
9. Artifact (Instrumental)
10. Backstage Girl (Feat. Phonte Coleman)
11. Triplicate / Something Happened That Day
12. Tiger (Feat. Sergio Pizzorno & Christopher Karloff)
13. Erase You (Feat. Chris James)
14. What Have I Done (Feat. Christina Carter)
15. You Made It (Feat. Chris James)
16. Enuff (Feat. Q-Tip & Lateef The Truth Speaker)
17. Dats My Part (Feat. E-40)
18. Purple Grapes (Feat. The Team)
19. 3 Freaks - Video (Feat. Keak Da Sneak & Turf Talk)

Average customer rating:

Outsider Lounge Music Manufacturer: Pinnacle Productions ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD ASIN: B00093Z5QC

Product Description

Features - Chokin Kind, Still Water, Poke Salad Annie, I Got What I Wanted, Waiter, Hotel Happiness, Rainy Night in Georgia, Old Black Buck, It's Just A Matter of Time, Put On Your Red Dress and Careless Love

Average customer rating: Feels like an OUTSIDER

The Outsider Manufacturer: Universal Music Group ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music ASIN: B000HT366O Release Date: 2006-09-19

Customer Reviews:

Feels like an OUTSIDER.......2007-01-11

DJ Shadow is reknowned for all sorts of innovative, unique use of samples, turntabling, hip-hop, and electronica. So how did he end up going from the brilliant "Endtroducing" and "Brainfreeze" to a piece of overprocessed, soulless dreck like "The Outsider"? Nobody can be really sure, but however it happened, it wasn't worth the ride.

From start to finish, this album is a ride through uninteresting rap and a schizophrenic array of different sounds. It feels as though Shadow was running out of time before a deadline, and hastily slapped together some songs that belonged to current trends and appealed to the radioslave crowd.

Things sound promising with the eerie, ambient "Outsider Intro," which spins up a mythic edge to the album. "In a twilight of a time, there emerges a need for man to comprehend his own bitter fate. Finally resigned to the inevitable beyond, he searches the ages, desperate for stories of insurance, redemption and hope..." It's a promising beginning.

Then it all falls apart. "This Time" stumbles over itself into a radio-friendly pop disaster, followed by an equally forgettable rap entry in "3 Freaks." DJ Shadow attempts to regain the turntablist edge with headache-inducing hyphy with its twangy electrobeats, and halfhearted synth over jagged, rambling raps that never really go anywhere.

As if that weren't schizophrenic enough, Shadow then decides to do a bluesy, acoustic "Levee Blues," reminiscent of the bluesy sound of Howlin' Wolf or Muddy Waters, and even some new-agey piano solos that sounds like something from a relaxation album. Then it's back to the generic rap and lifeless trip-funk, with Shadow apparently tiring of the sound himself by the end. He certainly sounds uninspired enough, to the point where the final song sounds like Super Mario Hip-Hop.

Don't bother looking for DJ Shadow of "Endtroducing" and "Brainfreeze" in this album. It's like someone using the name "DJ Shadow" has put out entirely different music -- not only is his "sound" gone except for a scrap here and there, but his creativity is as well. While every artist has to pursue new territory, Shadow isn't doing that.

It sounds like he is chasing whatever will go over best with the mainstream -- the current hip-hop trends, and generic rap from a plethora of guesting MCs. And the random, schizophrenic quality only makes it worse -- Shadow veers madly from pop to hard rap to blues to ambient piano to hyphy (the last of which ensures that this sound will be dated in about five minutes).

To make things worse, the only raps worth listening to are in the intro and Sergio Pizzorn. Other ones tend to be either incoherent or downright incomprehensible -- and even if you figure out what they are saying, it isn't anything too impressive. They're also some of the most soulless rap songs I've ever heard, with layers of synth and the odd beats to distract from the complete lack of soul or feeling.

Incoherent and all over the place, "The Outsider" is an unexpected stumble for a very talented DJ -- ultra-generic hip-hop, plus everything except the kitchen sink. A disastrous attempt to try something new.

Music Album:

1. Phantom 309 [Import]
2. Poems Prayers & Promises [Import] [Original recording remastered]
3. Pop Hits Monthly Karaoke - COUNTRY Aug 2005
4. Prince of Egypt (Nashville) [Soundtrack]
5. Secret of Life
6. Sleepy Eyed John [Import]
7. Sounds Like Bluegrass to Me
8. Tainted Angel
9. The Creaking Tree String Quartet
10. THE END

Music Album