Messenger [Import]

Track Listings

 
1. Down Below
2. Under the Milky Way
3. Way I Made You Feel
4. Randwick Bells
5. Quasimodo's Dream
6. Into Temptation
7. Cattle and Cane
8. (Are You) The One I've Been Waiting For
9. Black Fella/White Fella
10. Alone With You
11. Bring Yourself Home to Me

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
Jimmy Little is a legend in the truest sense of the word. Australia's first commercial Aboriginal recording artist (in 1959) breaking down the barriers, his career spanning 4 decades as a gifted and graceful balladeer. Messenger' is a new recording that will help us all to re-discover Jimmy's honey-like voice and alluring energy. Jimmy has commanded an astonishing assembly of Australian talent to contribute to his album. And the cream of Australian songwriting talent have OK'd the man to cover their own legendary songs, when no-one else would be allowed the same privilege. Look at that Tracklisting! A truly essential Australian purchase!

Messenger,Jimmy Little,Festival Records,Australia,Pop,Pop/Rock,Rock,Rock/Pop,World Music
Happy Trails
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • wonderful
  • If you liked "Live Dead", You'll love this
  • A musical experience like no other....
  • Severely Overrated!!!
  • Happy Trails by Quicksilver Messenger Service
Happy Trails
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music
Psychedelic RockPsychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Live Albums | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Quicksilver Messenger Service
  2. It's a Beautiful Day
  3. Classic Masters
  4. Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus
  5. Electric Music for the Mind and Body

ASIN: B000002UTY
Release Date: 1994-08-09

Tracks:

  1. Who Do You Love Part 1
  2. When Do You Love
  3. Where Do You Love
  4. How Do You Love
  5. Which Do You Love
  6. Who Do You Love Part 2
  7. Mona
  8. Maiden Of The Cancer Moon
  9. Calvary
  10. Happy Trails

Album Details

Digitally Remastered. Includes Extensive Booklet.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars wonderful.......2007-06-24

I went in expecting an album with an old, lackluster guitar sound and uninteresting guitar playing because, let me be honest, there's a lot of guitar playing from the 60's that doesn't sound good to me. Let me take that back- it SOUNDS good, but the notes aren't inspiring me to continue listening because it's mostly a guitar playing over simple blues rhythms and whatnot. It's alright in small doses, but not in great quantities for me.

However, Happy Trails is just the opposite. The reviewer below is right- if you like the Grateful Dead's "Live/Dead" album or even some of the spookier Doors moments when they are letting loose and jamming out, this album won't disappoint. Throw in some melodic guitar jams with lots of delicious licks and really good and unpredictable bass work, and you got yourself a quality album.

Even if you don't care for the versions of "Who Do You Love" that you may have heard, you can ignore all those versions because this is a VERY different song. It takes the theme of that song and expands and builds on the melody in various ways. An album created to satisfy all the guitar jam fans out there. It's awesome. A must buy.

5 out of 5 stars If you liked "Live Dead", You'll love this.......2007-05-15

A few have labeled this a dull or booring, I'd assume that they don't have a background in other aspects of improvizational music - jazz, ragas... If you're used to the pop format (frequently associated with comercialized drivel from my perspective) - don't buy this unless you are wanting to expand your musical horizons.

These were musicians playing music for the music, not for major $$$s.

By the way, for those who like the dual lead format, Wishbone Ash was and still is dual lead - check out Argus for starters (from around the same era - esp the cuts "The King will Come" and "Warrior"). The re-issue CD has some bonus live tracks, with an extended version of Phoenix.

Also, back around that time, Fleetwood Mac was also dual lead - check out "Then Play On", esp the cuts "Rattlesnake Shake" and the two cuts about "Madge".

Also, regarding Dino V, I heard QMS live at the Ampitheator twice in Chicago, once pre-Dino and once after - definately liked them better With John C.

Hope this helps,

Scott

5 out of 5 stars A musical experience like no other...........2007-04-22

When I'd discovered this album in the early 80s (I'm a very late baby boomer), I thought it was "different," but interesting. I wasn't sure what to think of it. Shortly thereafter, when I listened to it "experienced" (hopefully you pick up what I mean), it blew me away to the point that I thought it was one of the greatest recordings ever made. I still do (and I stopped dropping over 20 years ago). It goes beyond rock & roll (matter of fact, to dub this these tunes/performances mere rock is doing it an injustice) - it was like every note played and every beat stroked by the band was so tight and intricate - as well as the timing - it just took you on a ride I can't even describe. From the beginning twang to the last drum beat, including the incredible solos from each of the four members, as well as how each of them complemented each other, it is something beyond words. I mean time just completely stood still until the very last note was played and the needle in the groove lifted off the vinyl.

The hard part was to get enough strength to get up and turn the record over to side 2! Then that whole 2nd side just took you on a completely different journey. All I know is, whenever we dropped, Happy Trails was ALWAYS played. A night wasn't complete without jamming out to this album (Hendrix's 'Axis: Bold As Love' was another favorite).

I saw John Cipollina perform with a group called The Dinosaurs in a small rock hall in Denver, back in 1983. It was probably one of the best performances I ever saw, completely blew me away. That's what turned me onto Quicksilver, later coming across this album. By the way....some of you may recall that the front cover art (depicting the man riding away on the horse) morphed into something completely different (as the artist intended it), while dropping. I mean this whole album - inside & out - was an experience in itself.

2 out of 5 stars Severely Overrated!!!.......2007-03-20

It seems that a lot of the folks reviewing this CD still spend a lot of time with with their bongs. Yes, it's a pretty good record. But a little of the Bo Diddley beat goes a long way, and 30 plus minutes of it overstays its welcome. And for my money, Gary Duncan cuts John Cipollina to shreds; John's OVERUSE of the whammy bar takes a lot away from his playing. The cd's "Quicksilver" and "Comin' Thru" are much better than this one. I recommend this for completists only......

5 out of 5 stars Happy Trails by Quicksilver Messenger Service.......2007-03-09

Classic Filmore West Rock. Just as good as as it was on vinyl years ago (too many). Has the longest recorded version of "Who Do You Love" that I have ever heard.
At the Kabuki Theatre
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Don't Waste Your Money
  • An Important Relic
  • Performance pretty inspired, recording primitive......
  • A very enjoyable recording
  • For Die-Hard Fans Only
At the Kabuki Theatre
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: Snapper UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music
Psychedelic RockPsychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Last Flight
  2. Sweeping Up the Spotlight: Jefferson Airplane Live at the Fillmore East 1969
  3. Return to Silverado
  4. At Golden Gate Park
  5. High Flying Bird: Live at the Monterey Festival

ASIN: B000MMLMYO
Release Date: 2007-02-26

Tracks:

  1. Fresh Air
  2. New Year's Jam
  3. Baby, Baby
  4. Too Far
  5. Truth
  6. You're Gonna Need Somebody on Your Bond
  7. Doctor Feelgood
  8. Cobra
  9. Song for Frisco
  10. Mona
  11. Subway

Tracks:

  1. What About Me
  2. Call on Me
  3. Pride of Man
  4. Local Colour
  5. Not Fade Away
  6. Mojo
  7. Freeway Flyer
  8. Subway [Studio Rehersal][*]
  9. Castles in the Sand [Studio Rehersal][*]
  10. Look Over Yonder Wall/State Farm [Studio Rehersal][*]
  11. SeBlues [Studio Rehersal][*]

Album Details

Recorded in December of 1970 in San Francisco, this is the Last Show Recorded with Members John Cipollina and Dino Valenti. Includes 18 Live Tracks and a Bonus Four Studio Tracks Recorded in 1969 with Nicky Hopkins.

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Don't Waste Your Money.......2007-07-06

I'm a fan of Quicksilver and saw them many times, but this recording is just horrible. Big dropouts where everyone's playing and then, blam, just a vocal and a tinny guitar, then it will switch back to the full band. Almost like someone was going "what's this switch do?".
This recording is just horrible and should never have been commerically released.

4 out of 5 stars An Important Relic.......2007-06-18

I was fortunate to see Quicksilver Messenger Service in concert on two occasions, and this welcome release is a terrific souvenir of a great band. The sound quality is hardly state of the art, but that's a minor quibble. Of primary importance is the fact that this is the only live document (except for bootleg recordings) of QMS with both John Cippolina and Dino Valenti in the line-up. And as David Crosby once declared, Valenti "does his level best to stir up your guts with a spoon!" I prefer Dino's ballads (check out his 1968 solo album), but here he's obviously "up" for a largely high voltage gig. Even if one finds his voice an acquired taste, the double leads by Cippolina and Gary Duncan are not to be missed. In the final analysis, well over half of what's presented here is essential Quicksilver.

3 out of 5 stars Performance pretty inspired, recording primitive.............2007-06-18

Back around the time this was recorded, Stereo Review magazine was publishing some fabulous monthly reviews of contemporary music, written by Mr. Steve Simels. Back in that analog age, it was necessary to divide the review into two pieces, the quality of the music and the quality of the actual recording. The recording here, most of the time, sounds like it was done on a battery powered mini reel to reel, and occasionally spliced together from different source tapes! Jarring changes in volume and tone, muffles, etc. As to the music, the first CD is pretty doggone inspired, rocks on very well, maybe the liveliest version of "You're Gonna Need Somebody On Your Bond" (mis-typed as "Band") I ever heard. Dino Valente's distinct high lonesome vocals, solid drumming, driving guitars, etc. The second disc is generally painful with a few bright moments, but mostly dispensable.

5 out of 5 stars A very enjoyable recording.......2007-06-08

This is a most enjoyable recording which benefits from being played repeatedly, loud, in a car with a good stereo with at leat four speakers. Initially,indoors, I was disappointed because I thought John Cipollina was too far back in the mix and I wasn't sure about the sound quality. But, like many live recordings, it improves the more you listen to it. There is improvisation and atmosphere in the performance, which is not present in the studio material of this period. When you know what to listen for, you will hear John playing on the left and Gary on the right, "duelling" wonderfully, with probably the best live vocal permormances I have heard by the band. As someone who is too young to have seen the band live, this is a delight. I wish some more recordings would be released.

3 out of 5 stars For Die-Hard Fans Only.......2007-06-02

I'm a sucker when it comes to Quicksilver Messenger Service. I fell in love with Happy Trails, and really enjoyed their first album. Everything else after that was always a hit and miss proposition. Each subsequent album had it's glorious moments, but were interspersed with sub-par, almost amateur songs. And... I hate Dino's voice. But... this album had the dual guitar attack of John and Gary, and the set-list didn't sound half bad, so I plunked down the money to buy it. As mentioned before, this is from a radio broadcast so the quality of the song is good, but not great (and sometimes bad). The performances, again, are hit and miss. And... no one in the band seems to know how to end a song! So many flubs. But... there are some great guitar solos, and for the most part John and Gary are sounding great.

If you don't know who QMS is, then get Happy Trails. You won't be disappointed. If you are a "completist", then add this to your collection. Just be forewarned the quality of the recording is just so-so. There are a few gems in here, but also a lot of mediocre stuff as well.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • "Gold And Silver" awaits those that purchase the CD
  • Quicksilver
  • Actually, I like these guys
  • Quicksilver Messenger Service - Classic Filmore West Rock
  • Who Do You Love?
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Psychedelic RockPsychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Happy Trails
  2. Electric Music for the Mind and Body
  3. It's a Beautiful Day
  4. Moby Grape
  5. Just for Love

ASIN: B000002UTX
Release Date: 1994-08-09

Tracks:

  1. Pride Of Man
  2. Light Your Windows
  3. Dino's Song
  4. Gold And Silver
  5. Too Long
  6. The Fool

Amazon.com

Prior to this album's release, Quicksilver contributed two fine songs to the soundtrack of the film Revolution. Vocalist Dino Valente's subsequent drug bust and incarceration didn't prevent them from playing live, but it did delay the completion of their first album. Quicksilver's debut was consequently more mature than those of their late-1960s San Francisco Sound brethren--Big Brother, the Grateful Dead, and Jefferson Airplane. Quicksilver's first outing offers long instrumental passages and a communal attitude toward vocals and solos. Overall, however, QMS, while enjoyable and historically important, pales next to the band's innovative second release, Happy Trails. --James Swift

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars "Gold And Silver" awaits those that purchase the CD.......2007-07-15

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various music supplies and recordings from the 60's and 70's.

It didn't take long for the 1968 debut from Quicksilver Messenger Service to make an impact. The leadoff tune "Pride Of Man" (Written by Hamilton Camp in 1964) would become synonymous with David Freiberg. To this day he performs it as a member of the Jefferson Starship. "Light Your Windows" is beauty in motion. The words flow flawlessly and the only shortcoming is the length of the tune not reaching three minutes. Dino Valente's "Dino's Song" follows in all its brilliance. Dino was in jail at the time of the recording sessions. The artistry of the song is without a flaw. The vocals are delivered with conviction and the instrumentation has a sincerity attached. "Gold And Silver" (Instrumental) lets the guitars of John Cipollina and Gary Duncan take center stage. If the production sounds exceptional during the high-energy display, give thanks to Nick Gravenites (Electric Flag) and Harvey Brooks (Miles Davis and Electric Flag to name only a couple) behind the scenes. "It's Been Too Long" continues with terrific instrumentation and a solid vocal. To end a memorable debut the twelve minute "The Fool" lets you encompass the many facets of QMS. May 1968 forever etched in the minds of those in and around San Francisco.


Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

5 out of 5 stars Quicksilver.......2007-06-03

I forgot how good it is. Infact unlike some old things revisited this music was even better than I remembered it to be. A friend had told me how difficult it had been to find this band's work. I was so pleased to see Amazon had listed it. It is classic rock at it's best and made this old guy feel 18. Far out!

2 out of 5 stars Actually, I like these guys.......2007-03-12

They had a swagger at Monterey 67 and were in the right place at the right time. I like about 3 tracks on this album (their first and best). I can't recommend it to the masses, I purchased this mainly for historical purposes. You MUST listen to Jefferson Airplane (first 2 albums only), Peanut Butter Conspiracy (first 2 albums only), Grateful Dead (skip first 2 ablums) before you dig this deep for lost nuggets.

5 out of 5 stars Quicksilver Messenger Service - Classic Filmore West Rock.......2007-03-09

Just as good as it ever was on vinyl, more years ago than I really want to admit.

5 out of 5 stars Who Do You Love?.......2006-11-10

One of the best, if not the best from this band. A must have for all fans of QMS
Messenger [ENHANCED CD]
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Proving the Indie Rock Movement can be a Commercial Success
  • A BEST EVER
  • Everyone should own this cd
  • Heartbreaking but awesome!
  • The best of the best
Messenger [ENHANCED CD]
Edwin McCain Band
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Adult AlternativeAdult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
$7.99 and Under$7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
PopPop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Classic RockClassic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
RockRock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Alternative RockAlternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
$7.99 and Under$7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Misguided Roses
  2. Honor Among Thieves
  3. Far From Over
  4. Lost in America
  5. The Austin Sessions

ASIN: B00000J7SV
Release Date: 1999-06-15

Tracks:

  1. Wish In This World
  2. Beautiful Life
  3. Promise Of You
  4. Ghosts Of Jackson Square
  5. I Could Not Ask For More
  6. Do Your Thing
  7. Prayer To St. Peter
  8. Go Be Young
  9. Anything Good About Me
  10. I'll Be (Acoustic Version)
  11. Sign On The Door
  12. See Off This Mountain

Amazon.com

Edwin McCain struck gold with his 1997 release, Misguided Roses, which sold half a million copies and spawned the Dawson's Creek-driven hit single "I'll Be," so he's probably earned the right to think big. That's what he does on Messenger, attacking his new set of songs with fleshed-out arrangements, several of which involve string sections and horns. Fans of McCain's more stripped-down fare will be disappointed by his rather bold-faced move toward the middle of the road, the most egregious example being the Diane Warren-penned ballad "I Could Not Ask for More," which is typically syrupy and overwrought. McCain's acoustic-driven "Ghosts of Jackson Square" is more on target, as is the soulful "Wish on the World" and the bouncy "Beautiful Life." Fans of "I'll Be" will enjoy hearing it again here, this time in a hushed vocals-guitar-sax version that's even more direct and affecting than the original. --Daniel Durchholz

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Proving the Indie Rock Movement can be a Commercial Success.......2005-08-31

The 1990s music landscape saw Alternative Rock begin to basically become part of the mainstream music fold. However, Alternative Rock also began to produce many other off-shoots. This was because there was a perception that groups such as "Nirvana" and "Gin Blossoms" would "sell out" to commercial culture. As a result, a sub-movement within Alternative Rock began to form called "Indie Rock". The "Indie" stands for independent. It is a style of music that often covers a wide variety of genres, often working on independent record labels, but most importantly the artist maintains complete control of the music and their careers. However as Indie Rock stars gained popularity, even this term began to blur a bit. One artist who rose to popularity in the Indie Rock movement was Edwin McCain. Edwin McCain's second album "Misguided Roses" produced one of the biggest hits of 1997 and 1998 called "I'll Be". While I always felt that this was an overrated song, it did give McCain's career the boost it needed. While McCain's commercial success might have put his "Indie Rock" status in question, his style would still remain true to the "Indie Rock" roots. It would be McCain's third album, "Messenger" that would show his "Indie Rock" roots. Surprisingly, this album didn't garner the critical acclaim that I would have expected.

As mentioned, a key facet to the "Indie Rock" movement is maintaining complete control of the music - in other words, doing things your own way. For the most part, with McCain, this is not an issue. The sound on "Messenger" by McCain is as "Coffee House" as you can get. There is a lot of use of acoustic (even if it is electric acoustic) guitars. McCain supplements this sound very nicely with the use of saxophones and horns. He also makes a stronger use of drums and percussions than most "Coffee House" style artists.

McCain is also one very talented songwriter. As for doing things "his own way", this is very evident on "Messenger". McCain penned 11 of the 12 tracks. One might give him some criticism for using a song ("I Could Not Ask For More") written by a very "commercial songwriter" like Diane Warren, but McCain puts his own spin on that track. After all, part of Indie Rock is doing things your own way - and that is very evident on that track.

McCain's songwriting includes a wide variety of topics. Most notably, McCain's spirituality surfaces in the song "A Prayer to St. Peter". This is an acoustic sounding song that I'm shocked didn't garner more attention on the Christian Contemporary circuit. While McCain does include other spiritual/religious references on "Messenger" (such as "Ghost of Jackson Square", "Sign on the Door", "Beautiful Life", and even on Warren's "I Could Not Ask For More"). I would say it's safe to say that McCain is a Christian influenced musician. McCain also sings on other topics - such as a tribute to his grandmother ("See Off This Mountain"); Alcoholism ("Sign on the Door" and "Go Be Young"); and of course love and romance ("Wish In This World", "Promise of You", I'll Be")

As far as McCain's songwriting goes, it is his use of metaphors that really hits home. While I did feel "I'll Be" was an overrated song, this was a song that did use metaphors very well (i.e. "Emeralds from mountains thrust from the sky", "Rain falls angry on the tin roof"). McCain carries this trademark over to "Messenger". This is seen on several tracks such as: "Wish in this World" ("Running to grass so green; Dangerous road, but it's not going to change"); "Ghost of Jackson Square" ("But fall from the height; my personal ledges; afraid to look down; my crepe paper bridges; enough water to drawn"); "Prayer to St. Peter" ("The taste of summer; and a ripened pear; and girls sweet as meadow wind"); and Sign on the Door ("With a Sign on the Door; Saying sorry we're closed").

Throughout the album, the balance between McCain's haunting vocals and the outstanding work done by his band are really done well. There isn't a bad track on this collection. Perhaps the best example of the balance between the vocals and band work is on "Go Be Young". This song got a lot of airplay and deserved it - it is the best track on the album. "I Could Not Ask for More" also get some attention as well - and also well deserved. There are many other tracks that I'm surprised didn't garner more airplay or attention - such as "Wish In This World", "Beautiful Life", "Prayer to St. Peter", "Ghosts of Jackson Square", and "Do Your Thing". "Sign on the Door" is another standout track that takes on almost a gospel-like feel toward the end of the track.

My only criticism of "Messenger" is the inclusion of the "acoustic" version "I'll Be". I almost feel that this was included to capitalize on the big success of "I'll Be". Ok, it was a popular song and there may be a market to hear a more "acoustic" sound, but I think this would have been better suited for a greatest hits album. I had mentioned that McCain did things his own way "for the most part". Perhaps the record company put some pressure to include this. While you can say this violates the spirit of the Indie Rock movement, you can also say that perhaps McCain wanted to include this - and did things his own way.

The liner notes contain all of the lyrics to all of the songs as well as the musician and production credits. While "Messenger" would be a commercial success, that would be the last album that McCain would have commercial success. McCain would return to his Indie roots of touring and word of mouth music. But "Messenger" proved that Indie Music can be good even it does sell well. Highly recommended.

5 out of 5 stars A BEST EVER.......2005-08-30

This is simply one of my top 20 favorite CD's of all-time. I'm 40 years old, and have heard a lot of 'albums' and trust me, this one is right in there.
If you like Edwin at all, you will love this album.

5 out of 5 stars Everyone should own this cd.......2004-08-06

This is one of my very favorite cds. By far the best by Edwin McCain, and among the best albums I've ever heard. Buy it. Get an extra copy for a friend.

4 out of 5 stars Heartbreaking but awesome!.......2003-05-24

Edwin Mcwinain. what can I say about him? I'm 17 years old and when I went to a concert of his, because his following is not all that large (what a shame) most people were surprised to see a person so young, there. they asked me how I knew about him. I said that I had heard him on the show "Dawson's Creek" a few years before and fell in love with his music. I have this CD ("Messenger") and I highly recommend it. Edwin's lyrics are so beautiful and meaninful and his voice is sooo sooothing. Edwin has that great combo of Pop, Blues, Jazz, Country and Rock, ALL INTO ONE! it's hard to explain but I love it. I met him once a few months ago and I'm going to see him again next week.

5 out of 5 stars The best of the best.......2002-02-27

This is my personal favorite. It's a shame McCain doesn't have a greater following. Everything on this album is poetic in every sense. The instrumentation is fantastic and the lyrics, the true brilliance of the music, are amazing. There is a fantastic acoustic version of "I'll Be" that is quieter, tamer and features the lyrics, though it loses the wonderful saxophone pieces that are that song's trademark. True to that, this album is quieter all around, with the noteable exception of "Anything Good About Me," which is really the only 'rock' song here. "Beautiful Life" and "Just Do Your Thing" are eloquent commentaries on life today. Though this album doesn't have much of the upbeat tunes like "Guinevere" or "Alive" common to Edwin McCain's earlier albums, it is poetic an moving. Edwin McCain's best songs are rarely released on the radio waves and anyone who misses them is really missing out.
Anthology
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Buy this for Spindrifter
  • Quicksilver Rocks
  • QMS Continues !!!
  • Old Stuff
  • Excellent Collection of Some Great Songs
Anthology
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: Bgo - Beat Goes on
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Psychedelic RockPsychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Classic RockClassic Rock | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Classic RockClassic Rock | Imports | Stores | Music
RockRock | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Happy Trails
  2. It's a Beautiful Day
  3. Just for Love
  4. Quicksilver Messenger Service
  5. Classic Masters

ASIN: B0000011O6
Release Date: 2002-02-15

Tracks:

  1. Pride Of Man
  2. Dino's Song
  3. The Fool
  4. Bears
  5. Mona
  6. Edward The Mad Shirt Grinder
  7. Three Or Four Feet From Home
  8. Fresh Air
  9. Just For Love
  10. Spindrifter
  11. Local Color
  12. What About Me
  13. Don't Cry My Lady Love
  14. Hope
  15. Fire Brothers
  16. I Found Love

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Buy this for Spindrifter.......2006-01-11

This anthology, rather than Sons of Mercury, is the one to purchase if you're new to QMS. I won't dispute with some reviewers who prefer the live energy of Happy Trails for the original albums, but Anthology delivers all of the top songs for QMS including Spindrifter, a solo piano piece that showed why both the Who and the Stones wanted his talents. This version of Mona is also better than the one on Sons of Mercury, which is cut short for some awful reason.
QMS was quirky, talented, and a unique but accessible sound in an era of trippy San Francisco bands. This anthology gives you the absolute best of their studio music.

5 out of 5 stars Quicksilver Rocks.......2005-09-19

I saw these guys in Denver back in the 70's, in a little bar, with Nicky Hopkins playing piano...nothing more needs to be said!

5 out of 5 stars QMS Continues !!!.......2003-12-06

May I add that Gary Duncan is
carrying on the QMS name,
and is producing new
Quicksilver music.
Check it out at
Shady Grove.
Number 9 Trvlr...

3 out of 5 stars Old Stuff.......2002-10-30

When this lp first came out I wore out the grooves and bought it again but that was a different time in our American lives. It's about sex, drugs and rock-and-roll. It's too slow for my more-modern taste. Some of the tunes still stand; but you can find those tunes at a modest price. This cd should be retired.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Collection of Some Great Songs.......2002-07-14

I had this on vinyl back when it was released as a double-album in the 1970s, and was glad to see it made available on CD.

Quicksilver Messenger Service, as you may or may not know, was one of the many bands that originated in and around the San Francisco area in the middle to late 1960s. Though not as well known nor as successful as some of the others would go on to be (Jefferson Airplane, The Grateful Dead, The Steve Miller Band), Quicksilver established itself as a band with first-rate musicianship, even though the band's lineup would regularly change. (Original guitarist John Cippolina would later go on to establish Copperhead; Gary Duncan was the other guitarist and occasional vocalist; bassist/vocalist David Freiberg would end up playing in the Jefferson Airplane/Jefferson Starship band; pianist Nicky Hopkins would come for a while but then leave, to be replaced by Mark Naftalin from the Butterfield Blues Band; vocalist Dino Valenti, although technically slated to be part of the band from the beginning, didn't actually join the group until it had been around for four or five years due to his incarceration on drug possession and his vocals are reminiscent of Marty Balin from Jefferson Starship.)

Despite the changing lineups, the band recorded a number of outstanding songs as collected on this CD. The CD opens up with their cover of Hamilton Camp's "Pride of Man", followed up by "Dino's Song" (written by the aforementioned Dino Valenti, who was by the time this was recorded spending time in jail), and then the masterful 12-minute "The Fool". Cippolina's trembling electric guitar work stands out on these, particularly the mostly instrumental "The Fool" (a few verses are sung in its later minutes).

The next song "Bears" is a light-hearted, short song; a cover of "Mona" (a bluesy, but somewhat forgettable song, previously recorded by Bo Diddley) and "Edward the Mad Shirt Grinder" (an instrumental piece written by Nicky Hopkins) follow it. "Three or Four Feet from Home," written by Cippolina, sounds like something The Grateful Dead might have done. Following it are a couple of songs for which Dino Valenti finally joined the group and sang -- "Fresh Air" (which has two instrumental breaks, one featuring guitar work and the other piano) and "Just for Love". Both songs marked somewhat of a turning point, as the band turned away from longer, less commercial songs to more radio-friendly fare. "Spindrifter," another Nicky Hopkins piece, is an instrumental piano-laden song with an exquisite melody. "Local Color" is an instrumental, slide-guitar, bluesy piece written by Cippolina; it is the last song on this collection on which he plays. "What About Me" introduced Mark Naftalin on piano to the band (replacing Nicky Hopkins) and while it is a pretty much standard protest type of song from 1970, the following Dino Valenti-penned "Don't Cry My Lady Love" is a terrific romantic pop ballad with outstanding piano work from Mr. Naftalin. "Hope," a pretty good electric lead guitar-driven piece, the acoustic guitar and piano "Fire Brothers," and "I Found Love" close out the CD. For "Fire Brothers" and "I Found Love," Greg Duncan, who at this time was the only original member from the band still around, provides the vocals.

Overall the CD earns 5 stars on the strength of some outstanding arrangements and musicianship, even though a few songs are rather forgettable themselves. This CD is an excellent introduction to and overview of Quicksilver in its most productive and creative phase (1967 - 1971); although the band would continue (again with lineup changes) for some additional years, none of the later output holds up to what is on this CD. If you like the San Francisco style of music, with its extended musical interplays and occasional psychedelic excursions, this CD won't disappoint.
Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Guru - Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future
Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future
Guru
Manufacturer: V2
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
SoulSoul | Compilations | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Jazzmatazz, Vol. 1
  2. Streetsoul
  3. Jazzmatazz, Vol. 2: The New Reality
  4. Baldhead Slick & da Click
  5. Port Authority

ASIN: B000O7665M
Release Date: 2007-06-04

Tracks:

  1. Cuz I'm Jazzy - Slum Village
  2. State of Clarity - Common, , Bob James
  3. Stand Up - Damian "Junior Gong" Marley
  4. Look to the Sun - Solar
  5. Connection
  6. Fine and Free - Vivian Green
  7. Wait on Me - Raheem DeVaughn
  8. International - Bobby Valentino
  9. This Is Art - Ronnie Laws,
  10. Fly Magnetic - Dionne Farris
  11. Jazz Style - Omar
  12. Follow the Signs - Shelly Harland
  13. Universal Struggle - Brown Man,
  14. Infinite - Blackalicious
  15. Kissed the World - Caron Wheeler
  16. Living Legend - David Sanborn

Album Description

Jazzmatazz Volume Four gives you all that goodness you've come to expect from the stellar partnership of Guru with "SuperProducer" and fellow New Yorker, Solar. Many talented friends also come through on Jazzmatazz Volume Four to bless the record and be a part of its tradition including Slum Village, Common, Blackalicious and many others who lend their unique voices and styles to the album. V2. 2007.

Album Details

2007 Release of the Fourth Volume of the Revered DJ'S "Jazzmatazz", Titled "The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: "Back to the Future" that Includes "Stand Up (Some Things'll Never Change)" featuring Damian Marley, One of the Joint's Stand Out Tracks that Helps to Set the Whole Project Ablaze. Other Artists Appearing Include Vivian Green, Blackalicious, the Returns of Caron Wheeler (Soul Ii Soul) and Dionne Farris and Saxophonist David Sanborn. Always Pushing the Envelope, the Set was Entirely Produced by Solar and Co-produced by Guru. Gushing Over the Recording Sessions, Guru Laments: "Since the Inception of "Jazzmatazz", One of the Main Focuses Has Been that it Has Something for Every Generation and Music Lover. It's Timeless. When We Enter Into These Projects We're Working with Artists that Are Relevant and it Provides for that Fresh New Territory. The Tracks Solar and I have Laid Down Are Incredible!".

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Guru - Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future.......2007-06-20

Guru (A.K.A. Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal, Keith Edward Elam) returns with "Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future" (2007) a sixteen track release which features guest appearances from Slum Village, Common, Bob James, Damian Marley, Kem, Vivian Green, Raheem DeVaughn, Bobby Valentino, Ronnie Laws, Dionne Farris, Omar, Shelly Harland, Brownman, Blackalicious, Caron Wheeler & David Sanborn. As one half of the groundbreaking group Gangstarr, Guru released many memorable albums, he has also succeeded in delivering memorable solo releases in the Jazzmatazz series. At fourty year's old, Guru is one of the Rap game's veteran's who continues to deliver relevant music, that old and new fans alike can enjoy. This release opens up with "Cuz I'm Jazzy" which has Guru teaming up with T3 & Elzhi of Slum Village. Next up is a highlight track in the single "State of Clarity" - Guru, Common and Bob James (Jazz Keyboards) deliver a substantial track about being true to ones self and avoiding the trife life. Guru tag teams "Stand Up (Some Things'll Never Change) with Damian Marley who provides the chorus. Guru rhymes about change and creating a better future on "Look To The Sun". Guru shines on the introspective "Connection" feat. Kem- delivering more substantial lyrics like "Its so real when it comes from the heart, from deep down inside". Guru flipts the script some and slows things down with "Fine and Free" which features some soulful vocals from Vivian Green, rhyming with confidence - Guru show's his love for Hip Hop and the ladies while repping himself and giving his opinion on sell out MC's. Up and coming soul singer Raheem DeVaughn makes an appearance on "Wait On Me", while Bobby Valentino & Guru travel worldwide on "International". Guru kicks some on point rhymes backed by the sounds of Jazz, Funk & Blues musician Ronnie Laws on "This Is Art". Guru rhymes about a woman whos after him on "Fly Magnetic" backed by some vocals from Dionne Farris, then colloborates with British Singer Omar on "The Jazz Style". Guru takes a trip looking for a special lady on "Follow The Signs" backed by smooth vocals from Shelly Harland. My favourite track at the moment is the deep "The Universal Struggle" feat. Brownman, Guru delivers some excellent lyrics on this conscious track about how people worldwide face the same struggles, talking about showing resilience in the face of danger and overcoming. Guru then collabs with Rap duo Blackalicious on "Infinite" - letting it be known he won't be leaving the game anytime soon and that the music he delivers goes beyond simple rhymes to deep thoughts. Guru provides another international collaboration this time with female British Singer Caron Wheeler (hook) on "Kissed The World" a track about George Bush and the War. Guru closes off the album with "Living Legend" backed by the sounds of Saxophonist David Sanborn. It's refreshing to listen to a grounded MC who has a significant social conscious, and drops positive on point rhymes. "Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future" is a strong release worth checking out.
Classic Masters
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • unadulterated rock-n- roll
  • Better Remembered
  • 60's revisited
  • Return to the origin of modern music
  • Disappointing - sounds muffled and flat
Classic Masters
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: EMI Special Products
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Psychedelic RockPsychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
CDs Under $7CDs Under $7 | Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
All Bargain TitlesAll Bargain Titles | Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
4-for-3 Classic Rock4-for-3 Classic Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 Pop4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 Rock4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 All Music4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Happy Trails
  2. Quicksilver Messenger Service
  3. The Best of Spirit
  4. It's a Beautiful Day
  5. Cricklewood Green

ASIN: B00005V5Q3
Release Date: 2002-01-29

Tracks:

  1. Pride Of Man
  2. Light Your Windows
  3. Who Do You Love (part 1)
  4. Stand By Me
  5. Dino's Song
  6. Shady Grove
  7. Joseph's Coat
  8. Flute Song
  9. Fresh Air
  10. What About Me
  11. Just For Love
  12. Hope

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars unadulterated rock-n- roll.......2007-07-16

At this stage of my life, I do not have the time to listen to as much of the old Hard-Rock music that I would like. However, this QSM gem is always a trip down memory lane. When my wife is out of the house, I crank this up as loud as possible!!!! Oh, to be 20 years old again.

1 out of 5 stars Better Remembered.......2007-03-10

This album/CD was only a few dollars, thankfully! It had, perhaps, two cuts that were worth remembering. Too bad I didn't remember that when I took the offer (like a hungry trout).

It's better left in the dust bin.

4 out of 5 stars 60's revisited.......2007-01-09

Great walk down memory lane. I had forgotten their unique sound, and I enjoyed listening to it once again. You can hear the band grow and change as they moved from rock and roll to their Quicksilver sound.

4 out of 5 stars Return to the origin of modern music.......2007-01-03

Few gen X or Y people know that Quicksilver Messenger Service was another vital piece of the musical pie that came out of the 60's/early 70's..........for those of you who don't know them.....pickup this 'best of' and connect the dots to modern jam bands........good stuff. bcp

2 out of 5 stars Disappointing - sounds muffled and flat.......2006-12-12

I have to disagree strongly with the review below which says that the sound quality on this disc is "superb." It's not. In fact, it's one of the worst sounding discs I've purchased in a long time. On many of the cuts the higher frequencies are missing; this is probably because over long periods of time, recordings on tape (i.e. the master tapes used to produce this CD) deteriorate. As a result, the music sounds dull and muffled. Also, I was surprised how dated many of these songs are, both in musical style and the lyrics. I was a big fan of QMS "back in the day," but this disc is a loser.
Koala Motel
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent!
  • Damn Good
  • Anne's Best Yet
Koala Motel
Anne McCue
Manufacturer: Messenger Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
Adult AlternativeAdult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Roll
  2. West
  3. Carnival
  4. Long Island Shores
  5. Amazing Ordinary Things

ASIN: B000HIP4F6
Release Date: 2006-09-19

Tracks:

  1. Driving Down Alvarado
  2. From Bakersfield To Saigon
  3. Bright Light Of Day
  4. Hellfire Raiser
  5. Sweet Burden of Youth
  6. Coming To You
  7. Any Minute Now
  8. Jesus' Blood
  9. Shivers
  10. As the Crow Flies
  11. Lay Me Down
  12. Koala Motel

Amazon.com

It's easy to hear why Lucinda Williams (who contributes harmonies here to the haunting "Hellfire Raiser") is such a fan of Australian transplant Annie McCue. Both draw inspiration from country, blues, folk, and classic rock in material that can have a hard edge and a tender heart, with lyrics that show a writerly eye for detail. Yet McCue isn't simply a Lucinda knockoff, but a triple-threat artist--as a singer, songwriter, and electrifying guitarist--who shows considerable command, range, and promise. With vocal support on various tracks from X's John Doe, Heart's Nancy Wilson (who also contributes mandolin), and Jim Lauderdale, highlights include the cinematic opener "Driving Down Alvarado" (with its echoes of the Doors' "Riders on the Storm"), the stripped-down acoustic intimacy of "Sweet Burden of Youth" and "Coming to You," the propulsive urgency of the apocalyptic "Any Minute Now," and a down-and-dirty cover of Tony Joe White's "As the Crow Flies." By the time the twangy atmospherics of the instrumental title track close the album, McCue has covered a considerable expanse of musical territory and made it all her own. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent!.......2007-04-28

She is an excellent guitar player and an accomplished songwriter. Get your copy right now.

5 out of 5 stars Damn Good.......2006-11-23

Koala Motel is a powerful album that blends masterful musicianship, gorgeous vocals, enchanting harmonies, and thought provoking lyrics. There are no fillers on this album and every repeat listening experience makes me appreciate the craftsmanship and specialness of each song more and more. Anne McCue's style is accessible to most everyone while at the same time none of the songs on Koala Motal can be considered formulaic. This is a damn good album that deserves heavy rotation treatment.

Anne skillfully pulls many different styles together on this album and she demonstrates them all masterfully. She flat out rocks and kicks a** on tunes like "Driving Down Alvarado," "As the Crow Flies," and "Any Minute Now." "Coming to You" is an intensely passionate ballad that can even the most jaded of listeners will be moved by. "Bright Light of Day" and "Sweet Burden of Youth" have delicious harmonies, with Nancy Wilson (of Heart fame) contributing background vocals on the latter, creating an ethereal experience.

Anne McCue is one of the most gifted and talented songwriter/musicians currently making music today. Her last album, "Roll," was a revelation that set an extremely high bar...and Koala Motel clears it. As good as she comes across on vinyl, she is that much better in concert, and I can't wait to hear these songs live.

This album is a must buy.

5 out of 5 stars Anne's Best Yet.......2006-09-20

This is Anne McCue's best work yet, and that's saying a lot since her previous albums are all outstanding in their own right. Koala Motel features lyrics that alternate between thought-provoking and just plain beautiful. The music is well crafted, and played with supurb musicianship. Anne's guitar playing just gets better and better, and she's always been one of the best. If you're already a fan of Anne's you'll love this and need it for your collection. If you're not familiar with her yet, Koala Motel is a good place to start.
War Crime Blues
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Where do we go from here....
  • Chris at his best
  • War Crime Blues
  • Another great blues album
  • compelling
War Crime Blues
Chris Whitley
Manufacturer: Messenger Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Roots RockRoots Rock | Rock | Styles | Music
Blues RockBlues Rock | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Weed
  2. Soft Dangerous Shores
  3. Dirt Floor
  4. Reiter In
  5. Hotel Vast Horizon

ASIN: B00024I2KY
Release Date: 2004-02-03

Tracks:

  1. Made From Dirt
  2. Her Furious Angels
  3. Ghost Dance
  4. War Crime Blues
  5. Invisible Day
  6. I Can't Stand It
  7. White Rider
  8. Dead Cowboy Song
  9. The Call Up
  10. God Left Town
  11. Nature Boy

Product Description

1 Made From Dirt 2 Her Furious Angels 3 Ghost Dance 4 War Crime Blues 5 Invisible Day 6 I Can't Stand It 7 White Rider 8 Dead Cowboy Song 9 The Call Up 10 God Left Town 11 Nature Boy

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Where do we go from here...........2006-02-04

This is an emotionally raw album of beautiful songs recorded in a makeshift/casual environment. As can be expected from Chris Whitley, the songs do not suffer for a lack of production. In fact, the organic style of the recording brings the audience closer to him, the gravity of the songs permeating deeper than if they had been studio-produced. The unique beauty of his music reamins subtle here, but somehow more intimate and direct.

The energetic highlights of the album draw from the artist's keen aptitude in musicianship, unfolding here more agressively than usual. Chris has somehow captured a vital creative essence in many of these uptempo songs. "Made From Dirt," "Dead Cowboy Song," and "God Left Town" are all excellent songs. All three are clearly a release, or rather, a forfeiture of his emotional outrages. So many artists resort to hitting their instruments more loudly or being too lyrically blunt. Other artists might be too subtle, nebulous or cryptic. Chris carefully lands on the rare poetic island somewhere between the two. "I Can't Stand It" is perhaps the most outright of the loud songs, though he did not write it, but he sure does reinvision it. It fits the album perfectly.

Quiter songs such as "Her Furious Angels," "War Crime Blues," "Invisible Day," "White Rider," and "The Call Up" shape the album into a dance between a despairing catharsis and hope with a sense of future wonderment. The wonderful song "Her Furious Angels" appears on a proceeding album in studio-produced form, however this original appearance is the stronger of the two. One of the album's most touching songs, "Invisible Day" was recorded live in a park. You can faintly hear birds in the background. That particular setting somehow makes the song utterly magical.

The album ends calmly with an a-capella version of "Nature Boy," which I feel is sung more for the meaning in the lyrics than for any sonic enjoyment. Chris' light, slippery voice merely embraces them, but does not exaggerate. It is all very fitting.

It is important to keep in mind that this album goes hand-in-hand with it's companion CD "Weed." Together, these two albums constitute a landmark in Chris Whitley's stripped-down catalog which began with the 1998's "Dirt Floor." We are wittnessing in these 2004 releases a profound ability to practically become one with the listener. It really seems otherworldly at times how far this music can sink in. This is one irreplacable artist who will be profoundly missed.

Key Songs: "Invisible Day," "Made From Dirt," "Her Furious Angels", "I Can't Stand It"

5 out of 5 stars Chris at his best.......2005-04-18

Chris Whitley's War Crime Blues shows the talented songwriter in his best setting, his voice and his acoustic guitar. The songs here don't show Whitley reenacting the blues but rather reinventing them. The opening "Made From Dirt" is both furious and haunting as Whitley's voice wails over the chaotic setting comprised solely by his guitar. Other songs such as "God Left Town" and "Dead Cowboy Song" continue in this vein where the fury just takes the listener in and doesn't let go. "Ghost Dance" finds Whitley sounding like our generation's John Lee Hooker, just riding one chord and letting the emotion carry the song. The quieter but just as passionate tracks "Her Furious Angels", "Invisible Day", and "White Rider", which shows Whitley's voice sounding like an old 78 record, are also great tracks. There are also 3 cover songs here, all done completely different. The version of "I Can't Stand It" is more fiery than Lou Reed's version while Chris' version of The Clash's "The Call Up" is more laid back, emphasizing the importance of the lyrics. Finally, the a capella read on the jazz classic "Nature Boy" is a great albeit unusual way to end the album. Like many of his last few albums, it's quite short at 33 minutes long, but like those releases it's designed to be listened to one sitting, in essence letting the songs take you to another place. Quite simply, this is Chris is at his best. Better than Din of Ecstasy or Living With the Law? Yes.

5 out of 5 stars War Crime Blues.......2005-01-06

Chris Whitley follows up last years low-key, but solid HOTEL VAST HORIZON, with what may be his best release since his staggering debut over twelve years ago.

Whitley has covered alot of ground sucessfully over the years, but I feel that his strongest work is when mines solo acoustic blues. Rather than using the blues as an excercise in nostolgia, he uses it as a springboard for explorig his personal demons in a modern context. He also manages to put his personal stamp on every composition including covers, such as the Velvet Underground's I CAN'T STAND IT and the Clash's THE CALL UP, which are included here.

WAR CRIME BLUES is an excellent album showcasing Whitley's talents as a guitarist, vocalist, composer and interpreter. There is not a weak track included. Those new to his work may be better advised to try his debut, LIVING WITH THE LAW or his excellent compilation LONG WAY AROUND first. Those that like what they hear there, or are already familiar with his work are then well advised to invest in this album.

5 out of 5 stars Another great blues album.......2004-11-12

This album is another great work by Whitley, and it is a great complement to Dirt Floor. The most objective way to describe this album in comparison with Dirt Floor is that if they were a two-disc set (they're similar enough to be), then War Crime Blues would be the loud part of his acoustic blues work and the cd set. I really enjoy this album because it veers off from Whitley's previous acoustic work and is a lot louder and really brings variety to his discography. Besides it being louder, louder in the sense that he strums harder and is playing his music forte on about half of his tracks (not necessarily singing forte), i find that what attracts me is his vocal melodies blend together very well with the dobro he plays and, for the artist, this is an inspiring work to listen to because as a blues record, it is orignal, which says something in itself about the work.

5 out of 5 stars compelling.......2004-07-30

after recording the quiet, ballad-based record Hotel Vast Horizon in 2003, Chris wanted to do something more urgent, more raw, and War Crime Blues is exactly that. From the first note, there is an aggressive sense of desperation that permeates the record, some kind of pissed-off melancholia. while not an overtly political record, "made from dirt", "war crime blues", and a cover of the clash's "london calling" among others comment on the shaky state of affairs in the world today. although this is a solo acoustic record like Dirt Floor, the production is very in your face and the songs are loud and noisy, so be warned. highly recommended.
Elton John And Tim Rice's Aida (1999 Concept Album)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • I would order from you again.
  • Loved it!!!
  • good variety and feeling
  • Sour Concepts
  • Living Elaborate Lives...
Elton John And Tim Rice's Aida (1999 Concept Album)
Jimmy Johnson , Juliet Haffner , Regis Iandiorio , Tony Kadleck , Elena Barere , Blackwell, Virgil , and Clark, John
Manufacturer: Island
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
Soft RockSoft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
ContemporaryContemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
1990s1990s | By Decade | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Album-Oriented Rock (AOR)Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
PopPop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Classic RockClassic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
RockRock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Broadway & VocalistsBroadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
SoundtracksSoundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
ClassicalClassical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Aida (2000 Original Broadway Cast)
  2. Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida: The Making of the Broadway Musical
  3. The Muse: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
  4. Made in England
  5. A Single Man

ASIN: B00000IFTH
Release Date: 1999-03-23

Tracks:

  1. Another Pyramid - Sting
  2. Written In The Stars - Elton John/LeAnn Rimes
  3. Easy As Life - Tina Turner ft. Angelique Kidjo
  4. My Strongest Suit - Spice Girls
  5. I Know TheTruth - Elton John/Janet Jackson
  6. Not Me - Boyz II Men
  7. Amneris' Letter - Shania Twain
  8. A Step Too Far - Elton John/Heather Headley/Sherie Scott
  9. Like Father Like Son - Lenny Kravitz
  10. Elaborate Lives - Heather Headley
  11. How I Know you - James Taylor
  12. The Messenger - Elton John/Lulu
  13. The Gods Love Nubia - Kelly Price
  14. Enchantment Passing Through - Dru Hill
  15. Orchestral Finale - Elton John

Amazon.com

Following hot on the heels of their enormously successful collaboration for The Lion King, Elton John and Tim Rice have once again culled their talents to create another Disney contemporary musical, based this time on Verdi's opera Aida. The album, recorded by some of the biggest talents of pop, country, and R&B, features songs from the stage show, which recounts the well-known tale of a love triangle further complicated by slavery, royalty, and the armed forces. John duets to great effect with country crooner LeAnn Rimes, the enchanting Janet Jackson, and the lovely Lulu of To Sir with Love fame. Lush and lively, the soundtrack hits a hoot of a (decidedly not highbrow) high point with the infectious pop of the Spice Girls warbling the merits of undergarments on "My Strongest Suit" ("Always wear underwear/Anytime, anywhere"). Lenny Kravitz funks things up with "Like Father Like Son." Shania Twain's husky emoting makes a fine pop ballad of the brief "Amneris' Letter." "Not Me" chronicles the goodness of love as Boyz II Men coo dreamily, their harmonies nestling into John's sumptuous score. --Paige La Grone

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars I would order from you again........2007-01-27

Product arrived in a timely manner in new condition, still wrapped in plastic. Thank you.

5 out of 5 stars Loved it!!!.......2006-09-07

I'm so impressed with this album for several different reasons.
3) It's Elton John
2) I loved all but two of the songs!
1) I usually hate the original broadway cast albums and movie soundtracks. They don't do the songs justice. They usually have chopped up versions of the songs and include unnecessary dialouge.

I'd love to see every musical (broadway or movie) done this way!
I appreciate the b'way versions, but I don't want to listen to them in my car...

4 out of 5 stars good variety and feeling.......2004-06-24

This is a very good CD. "Written in the Stars" is an extremely emotional song, and it is my favorite on the album. I would like to see the show on Broadway, but I have to say I don't think it can be too much better than this CD

2 out of 5 stars Sour Concepts.......2003-06-29

It takes so much to try to get a musical to make its way upon Broadway. Sometimes you really need to understand how to make it really happen within the passion of the storytelling music. In that case with Elton John, he nearly seemed to make it with Aida. While the music for Broadway always seems to have at least something completely mgaical and a dash of power in it. Sometimes, you really need to understand it, to make it happen, and others don't see it from the start. Although Elton John has had great music for years, at least once in a era, something goes a little flat.

The 1999 Aida, was not a studio album from Elton, but a preview from what was happen on Broadway. The various artists record contains so many different artists in the record including Tina Turner, Boyz II Men, Dru Hill, and the upcoming Heather Headley. Before Heather made it as a singer, she made it right here in Aida, on this record. The only decent song that was a hit was Written In The Stars, which Elton performed with Leann Rimes. The song was also the last song Elton cracked Billboard's Top 40. Still, there really wasn't a lot of enjoyment within most of the record, and it fell into a sleeper. Considering that Elton is already planning on making another smash musical on Broadway, hopefully he'll do better with the concept record.

When it does come to making it on Broadway, it isn't really anything exciting, unless it truly is a smash, and Aida is a smash on Broadway, just not the record. Still, if you're a die hard fan of Aida, buy this record. Otherwise, it could be a hitless miss.

5 out of 5 stars Living Elaborate Lives..........2002-11-02

Aida was Elton John and Tim Rice's baby, providing a concept soundtrack album before even setting the stage on fire, the tracks are generally sweeping show ballads.
Elton teams up with several lovely and talented ladies, in LeAnn Rimes, Janet Jackson, and Lulu. "Written In The Stars" could be a vocal gladiator battle, the way LeAnn and Elton sing it. Janet and Lulu prove themselves as more mellow duet partners.
Kelly Price makes "The Gods Love Nubia" her own, the song is tied up in soul with her voice being smooth as silk. The far too short "Amneris' Letter" shows off Shania Twain's voice to perfection also. Pop culture phenomenon the Spice Girls turn "My Strongest Suit" into the most obvious pop stomper of this set. Another strong point is Heather Headley's solo "Elaborate Lives". A rich ballad, Headley recently embarked on an R&B singing career with the track "He Is". The legendary Tina Turner provides a fiery perfomance, her track being the powerful "Easy As Life" with Angelique Kidjo.
Duds are also present, Sting and Dru Hill's tracks are admitted stinkers. James Taylor, Boyz II Men, Sherie Scott, and Lenny Kravitz also deliver perfomances on the album. This album is well put together, with strong tunes and a short-list of superstars presenting them. A fun buy.

Pop Music:

  1. Musica: O Melhor Da Musica De [Import]
  2. Non E Peccato [Import]
  3. Nove [Import]
  4. Novo Millennium [Import]
  5. Novo Millennium [Import]
  6. O Canada: The National Anthem [Import]
  7. O God of Loveliness/ Catholic
  8. Okinawa Folk Songs Collection
  9. Orients [Import]
  10. Por Voce: Ao Vivo [Import]

Pop Music

Pop Music