Eternal

Amazon.com
Here Branford Marsalis takes on the special challenges of the all-ballad album: to make a CD that's distinctive and that maintains interest at slower and medium tempos. He starts by avoiding the usual repertoire, instead dividing his program between seldom-heard tunes--like "Gloomy Sunday" and "Dinner for One Please, James"--and originals. Each member of the quartet--pianist Joey Calderazzo, bassist Eric Revis, and drummer Jeff "Tain" Watts--contributes a ballad. What's most striking is Marsalis's concentrated emotional focus. On tenor he reaches deep into the tradition, summoning up some of the expressive depth of Coleman Hawkins and Ben Webster, while his soprano saxophone is piquant over the Latin beat of "The Ruby and the Pearl" and crystalline on Calderazzo's graceful, melancholy "Lonely Swan." Marsalis's own "Eternal" is a multi-faceted voyage sparked by Watts's inventive drumming and climaxing with a keening, swirling tenor solo of real lyric passion. --Stuart Broomer

Product Description
Branford Marsalis knew that his quartet had achieved a new level of eloquence when two listeners told him on separate occasions that a ballad by the band had made them cry. "I had rarely heard that said about jazz before," says the acclaimed saxophonist, "and the comment made me realize that the quartet and I were achieving emotional development as musicians." The revelation led to Eternal, the September 2004 collection of original and classic ballads that realizes Branford's goal of "aiming for what Billie Holiday could do, which was to get to the emotions of each song." Eternal Features Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, and Jeff "Tain" Watts.

Eternal,Branford Marsalis,Marsalis Music,Ballads,Jazz,Modal Music,Pop,Post-Bop,Progressive Jazz

Average customer rating: pure genius Another great Yo-Yo Disc first disc great- second a flop Encore The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma

The Essential Yo-Yo Ma Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Kreisler | Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Piazzolla, Astor | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Porter | Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Shostakovich | Shostakovich, Dmitri | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by O'Connor | O'Connor, Mark | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Ma, Yo-Yo | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music New York Philharmonic Orchestra | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Appassionato Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone Vivaldi's Cello Classic Yo-Yo Silk Road Journeys: Beyond the Horizon ASIN: B000A7Q29G Release Date: 2005-08-16

Tracks:

1. Prde from Suite No. 1 in G Major for Cello, BWV 1007
2. II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
3. Jesus, bleibet meine Freude (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring), BWV 147
4. Schafe kn sicher weiden (Sheep May Safely Graze), BWV 208
5. Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (Sleepers Awake), BWV 645
6. The Swan from Carnival of the Animals (Chamber Version)
7. Havanaise, Op. 83
8. Mtation from Tha
9. Liebesfreud Instrumental
10. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso from Three Preludes
11. Vocalise Vocal
12. IV. Allegro from Sonata in D minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 40
13. Andante Cantabile for Cello Solo and String Orchestra, Op. posth.
14. IV. Rondo alla Zingarese. Presto from Quartet No. 1 in G minor for Piano and Strings, Op. 25
15. III. Finale. Allegro moderato from Concerto in B minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 104

Tracks:

1. Cristal
2. A lenda do caboclo
3. Chega de Saudade Live
4. Wapango Live
5. Libertango
6. Appalachia Waltz Solo Cello Version
7. Butterfly's Day Out
8. 1B
9. Pickin' from Three Pieces for Solo Cello
10. Simple Gifts
11. The Mission
12. Gabriel's Oboe
13. The Falls Album Version
14. The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
15. The Cellist of Sarajevo - A Lament in Rondo Form for Solo 'Cello, Op. 12
16. Chi passa per'sta strada
17. Mido Mountain (Chinese Traditional)
18. Mohini (Enchantment)
19. Baroque in Rhythm from Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio
20. Anything Goes Instrumental
21. I Could Have Danced All Night Extended version

Amazon.com

Here are three dozen pieces of music, all played by Yo-Yo Ma, culled from his extensive discography. Aside from the technical mastery and beautiful tone that are absolutes in all of his playing, one is dazzled by his curiosity and ability to adapt to so many forms and types of music. His Bach and Vivaldi are pellucid and played with non-sentimental crispness, his tango music gritty and rhythmically pungent, his jazz seemingly spontaneous, the "Meditation" from Thais simply ravishing, "Anything Goes" a romp, and the Appalachian music performed with both respect and a great twang, while the traditional Chinese music is fascinating. It's really a matter of how much Ma loves whatever he plays here, how entirely he becomes involved in it, and what a fine partner he invariably is to other musicians. This collection is a doozy--it is truly "essential." --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

pure genius.......2007-05-21

No instrument asks more from the soul of an artist as the cello does.
Yo Yo Ma shows to be master of the instrument and his interpretations en technique are pure genius. Everyone should have this album in his (or hers of course) basic classical collection

Another great Yo-Yo Disc.......2007-05-15

The set-up with the classical pieces on the first disc and the other on the second is excellent.

first disc great- second a flop.......2007-04-12

the first disc is awesome. the second disc is weird and boring.

Encore.......2007-03-31

Incredible. My young cellist (son) loves it. Beautiful music. The album is well organized and each song transitions nicely.

The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma.......2007-03-29

I've found this collection to be extremely delightful! It gives you a sense of the versatility of Yo-Yo Ma like no other, with one disc being dedicated more to his classical side, while the other explores jazz and world music venues. Not your typical "greatest hits" collection.

Average customer rating: spiritual americana Rich Heritage Superb Can't walk away from it! Mana from Heaven

American Angels Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Anonymous 4 | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Anonymous | A to B | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Gloryland Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King 1000: A Mass for the End of Time / Anonymous 4 A Portrait Of Anonymous 4 The Origin of Fire: Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen ASIN: B0001ADB4Q Release Date: 2004-02-10

Tracks:

1. Holy Manna
2. Abbeville
3. Wondrous Love
4. Sweet Hour Of Prayer
5. Jewett
6. Dunlap's Creek
7. New Britain
8. The Morning Trumpet
9. Resignation
10. Poland
11. Wayfaring Stranger
12. Sweet By And By
13. Blooming Vale
14. Idumea (I)/Idumea (II)
15. Sweet Prospect
16. Shall We Gather At The River
17. Amanda
18. Invitation
19. Parting Hand
20. Angel Band

Amazon.com

This, Anonymous 4's final recording, is a break from their usual "early music" periods and locations; it presents American music, religious in nature, from the 18th and 19th centuries. And it's absolutely beautiful from start to finish. Their normal, exquisite technique and purity here blend to sound the way we imagined the ladies' choir in church meetings in America past might have sounded: sweet, sincere, and with harmonies recognizable yet somehow fresh. Some of the songs begin with the women singing "fa, so la" exercises, which was called "shape note" singing because some places taught singing with notes as shapes--circle, rectangle, diamond, triangle. But it's the music that counts, and there are treasures here. They include two versions of "Amazing Grace," one familiar, one with an unusual melody and a piece called "Blooming Vale" which is as sophisticated as anything on their previous albums. "Shall We Gather at the River" is performed with a clarity and loveliness that makes us forget that it's normally sung as background to movies about the Great Depression. The foursome sometimes sing in rich harmonies and occasionally alone or in pairs or trios. This is glorious Americana and highly recommended. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

spiritual americana.......2007-01-06

I have some of the older Anonymous 4 recordings which are more medieval
and gregorian in style (I love them!). They move on to cover spiritual
basics of the 1800s. If you like classical music, perfect harmonies
and spiritual americina, then you will be blessed!

Rich Heritage.......2006-10-11

Anonymous 4 consistently produces exquisite and authentically beautiful recordings and this one presents early American hymns in ways few groups can manage. Some tunes are highly recognizable while others are 'new' to me but a refreshing reminder of the singing heritage of religious societies in times past. For those who enjoy old hymns and authentic renderings, this is a must buy.

Superb .......2006-08-07

This collection of American Christian music is not only an enthralling musical experience but a spiritually uplifting one as well. Anonymous Four have transferred their luminous vocal quality to a new space with perfect success.

Can't walk away from it!.......2006-08-07

My only "complaint" about the CD is that I absolutely HAVE to sit and listen to the entire thing whenever I start it up! I usually have music playing in the background while doing other things, but not this one! There are no tracks that I find myself wanting to skip over as in most collections. In fact, I usually find myself going back and listening to selected tracks again (and again and...) after taking the hour+ to listen to the whole thing through once.

These four ladies produce a unique and remarkable sound. I can't recommend it enough.

Mana from Heaven.......2006-05-08

I think the title of this CD is perfect. I first heard an interview for this CD on Public Radio and fell in love. I had never heard Anonymous 4 before then but look for all I can find of their music now. The title is perfect as the women sound like Angels and the music lifts the spirit. I find myself singing the old version of Amazing Grace all the time now. Incredible and a huge blessing to all who hear it.

Average customer rating: A Straight Thuggin' CD........ Best Album Ever Best of the Best!! every song is a must listen! Best Rap Album of all Time

E 1999 Eternal Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Manufacturer: Ruthless (Red) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Creepin on ah Come Up The Art of War BTNHResurrection Greatest Hits The Collection, Vol. 1 ASIN: B00000DHSE Release Date: 1998-11-24

Tracks:

1. Da Introduction
2. East 1999
3. Eternal
4. Crept And We Came
5. Down '71 (The Getaway)
6. Mr. Bill Collector
7. Budsmokers Only
8. Crossroad
9. Me Killa
10. Land Of Tha Heartless
11. No Shorts, No Losses
12. 1st Of Tha Month
13. Buddah Lovaz
14. Die Die Die
15. Mr. Ouija 2
16. Mo' Murda
17. Shotz To Tha Double Glock

Customer Reviews:

A Straight Thuggin' CD...............2007-07-16

Bone Thugs is mad talented, this disc starts with "The Introduction" Mad creepy! It's is all about the hustle, and hangin' on the side, I can relate! "East 1999" had them reminiscing about being in the game, slanging and running from the crazy thugs in the streets, but, as long as you're cool, it's all good with Cleveland mad gangsta flava. "Eternal" has a sweet old school beat, all about getting that skrilla! Ducking and pumpin' shots, it's time to get paid! "Crept And We Came" has them in stealth mode, hurry in and get the job done, whether they have to bust a cap, collect ends or settle a debt.

"Down 71" starts with Bizzy Bone at trial. He is reflecting on how he got there and this track is full of action & violence, ghetto style! "The Bill Collector" can be said to get what is owed, on the real tip! Don't test BT&H or there will definitely be consequences. I love the homage to the underground on this! "Budsmokers Only" is a tokin' tune with the homies, it's all about smoking, the taste, the feeling, everything! (Check out any Kottonmouth Kings) "Crossroads" is the signature song here, how fitting it's at the middle of the CD. I guess this is all about finding yourself through reflections of your actions, whether good or bad. Keep prayin' brothers! "Me Killa" is poetic in verse, short, but to the point of being a straight, ruthless dealer!

"Land Of Tha Heartless" is about survival in Cleveland! Watch your back, is the clear message here, there's no place to run! "No Shorts, No Losses" can be said to let people know that these cats never want to get cheated or else! Whether it be drugs, or favors, if a double cross happens, it's time for someone to pay! "1st Of The Month" is a smooth party groove, Everyone's paid and it's time to get that party on. Grillin', Chillin, Stylin', and Profilin' it's that time to relax, hang, and smoke with the homies! "Buddah Lovaz" is silky smooth jam, only for the smokers, but the way they sang it, it makes me want to get laid for real! LOL! I guess you would call this a love song!

"Die Die Die" is a song I cant comprehend too much, accept for the fact that in the send they get got my the cops! "Mr. Ouija 2" is an obvious continuation of Ouija off the Creepin' Ah Come Up EP, Just trying to get insight on a murder about to happen. "Mo Murda" is segued from Ouija 2, but the actual act, based on what was told by the ouija! It's painted picture of how the ghetto is, when the game is involved. "Shotz To Tha Double Glock" rounds out this tale about taking care of business, protecting your hood and your homies is what it's about! Sort of a "Thuggalo" family (LOL! I use that reference because I am a die hard juggalo and I know ICP and Bone Thugs are tight!)

This Cd is straight gangsta for real. I mean it's subtle and to the point, honest, and real! If you ask me this is more prolific than Tupac, and very raw!! An excellent CD by Bone Thugs & Harmony!!!!

Best Album Ever.......2007-07-10

This is BY FAR one of the best selling Hip-Hop Records of all time. It beat Elvis' record!!!

Best of the Best!!.......2007-05-16

This is without a doubt Bone's best album ever! Even though they are still awesome today, they (nor anyone else) will ever be able to top this album. It's just great from beginning to end...even the interludes, which are really just them singing and aint nothin' wrong with that. You can't call yourself a true Bone fan if you don't own this album. If you dont, then go get it now cuz you're missing out!

BONE THUGS 4-EVER!!!

every song is a must listen!.......2007-03-19

this is in my opinion, the best rap group album ever. no other rap group these days have the fire, passion and talents like BONE. i know there's talk about the group getting back together next year, and i really hope so. they're not forgotten and they're gonna be bigger than ever. to the new BONE fans, this is the album that cemented them in hip hop, their videos were on mtv all the time and they were winning all kinds of awards...you won't be disappointed!

Best Rap Album of all Time.......2007-03-08

I've been listening to rap for well over a decade now and the best album of all time is this one. Nothing even compares. This album captures the essence of the city streets through sound and words. The beats are beautifully dark and evil. When I listen to this cd, I feel like I am in a wasteland in hell. The genius of these four artists to capture such emotion in a cd at the ages of 17-20 is unbelievable.

Average customer rating: A blast of brass Old school Wynton fabulous Amazing talent

Wynton Marsalis - Baroque Music for Trumpet Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Purcell, Henry | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Incidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Purcell, Henry | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Trumpet | Brass | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Marsalis, Wynton | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Odes | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Purcell, Henry | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Marsalis, Wynton | ( M ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Classic Wynton Wynton Marsalis: In Gabriel's Garden Kathleen Battle · Wynton Marsalis ~ Baroque Duet / Anthony Newman · Orch St. Luke's · Nelson Baroque Trumpet Concertos Trumpet Concertos ASIN: B0000025XP Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Trumpet Concerto In D Major - 1. Allegro
2. Trumpet Concerto In D Major - 2. Largo
3. Trumpet Concerto In D Major - 3. Allegro (moderato)
4. 'Let the Bright Seraphim' From Samson
5. Sonata A 5 For Trumpet & Strings, T.V. 3
6. 'Sound the Trumpet' from Come Ye Sons Of Art
7. 'Chaconne' from Come Ye Sons Of Art
8. 'Entrada' from The Indian Queen
9. 'Trumpet Air' from The Indian Queen
10. 'Trumpet Tune' from King Arthur
11. 'Trumpet Overture' from The Indian Queen
12. Sonata A 5 For Trumpet & Strings, T.V. 7
13. 'Eternal Source Of Light Divine'
14. For Solo Trumpet And Strings, Concert No. 2 - 1. Allegro
15. 2. Adagio
16. For Solo Trumpet And Strings, Concert No. 2 - 3. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

A blast of brass.......2005-08-18

I first encountered this on cassette, quite by accident. It later became the background for my work at morning at the easel painting watercolours. But this is no wallpaper music. The technical genius of matching separate recordings of different trumpet parts is surpassed only by Marsalis's bright and lively technique. The masters would be pleased. As for the watercolours, I can now stand before them and see the music's influence on paper. Well worth the listening...

Old school Wynton.......2005-08-12

This cd features a lot of Wynton's earlier piccolo playing, which, while perhaps not as brilliant as you'd hear on his Gabriel's Garden album, is slightly more refined and appropriate to the repertoire. That isn't to say he doesn't embellish; The Fasch concerto has some tastefully inserted ornaments. "Let the Bright Seraphim" is as well played with soprano Edita Gruberova as it is in Wynton's later recording with Kathleen Battle. The Purcell selections on the album are probably the best examples of good piccolo playing I've found, particularly the trills. One only need listen to the "Entrada" to see how delicate and refined the playing on the whole album is.

fabulous.......2003-09-28

Marsalis' prodigious talent coupled with the greatest of Baroque brass composers is a combination that cannot be beat! Of course, Anthony Newman takes everything (less the slow stuff, of course) at his characteristic "lively" pace, but Marsalis keeps up. His execution of the ornamentation is awesome! Gotta have this one!

Amazing talent.......2001-04-22

Without doubt, the birthday ode to Queen Anne (Eternal Source of Light Divine) is one of the loveliest pieces ever. Couple that with two of the most accomplished talents in the world, you have a near spiritual moment. Even those with even a passing interest in the classics will find this a stirring expierence. this is true candy for the ear and food for the soul.

Average customer rating: Talib Kweli and Hi Teck Makes You Want To "Move Somethin" (Rating: 10 out of 10- -5 stars) Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought: Best CD you've never heard of The CD is a blast Very impressive. Brought a tear to my eye!

Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought Talib Kweli , and Hi-Tek Manufacturer: Rawkus / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Black Star Quality Like Water For Chocolate The Beautiful Struggle Things Fall Apart ASIN: B000067CLQ Release Date: 2002-06-04

Tracks:

1. Experience Dedication
2. Move Somethin'
3. Some Kind Of Wonderful
4. The Blast
5. This Means You
6. Too Late
7. Memories Live
8. Africa Dream
9. Down For The Count
10. Name Of The Game
11. Ghetto Afterlife
12. On My Way
13. Love Language
14. Love Speakeasy
15. Soul Rebels
16. Eternalists
17. Big Nel From Da Natti
18. Touch You
19. Good Mourning
20. Expansion Outro

Amazon.com's Best of 2000

Talib Kweli is probably the only MC who could do justice to "For Women," Nina Simone's righteous, ragged battle cry, and he does so with his cover on Reflection Eternal. That cut illustrates this album's timeless quality, its personal poeticism, and its strength. Kweli's lyrical skills have only improved over time, approaching the stuff of legend. And producer Hi-Tek's supple grooves balance the wordcraft perfectly. --Lizz Mendez Berry

Amazon.com

Silencing any suggestions that he's any less capable than his more high-profile Black Star partner Mos Def, Talib Kweli, along with DJ Hi-Tek, crafts a masterful debut with Reflection Eternal. Like Mos, Kweli displays an impressive range of styles and sensibilities--whether popping party lyrics on "Move Something," reflecting on the mysteries of the heart for "Love," or musing on hip-hop's death and rebirth for "Good Mourning." In comparison to Mos Def's status as a new funk soul brother, Kweli's more of a b-boy bookworm--erudite and articulate, but he can also let fly with fire and spark on the mic anytime. DJ Hi-Tek finally gets to show off his full range of production ability with a blend of hot, aggressive tracks ("Blast") and relaxed groovers ("Memories"). As good a debut as you could ask for. --Oliver Wang

Customer Reviews:

Talib Kweli and Hi Teck Makes You Want To "Move Somethin" (Rating: 10 out of 10- -5 stars).......2007-01-31

You can argue that Talib Kweli & DJ Hi Teck are the best emcee and DJ duo since Pete Rock & CL Smooth. When I first discovered them was when I was at home listening to the Music Choice Rap Channel, when the song "This Means You" popped on. That song alone wanted me to go and get that album, because of it's excellent wordplay by Kweli and Mos Def, with the production of Hi Teck.

There is not much I can say that already hasn't been said, seeing the average rating is at it's max. As I mentioned before, Kweli's rhymes are superior to hear. Being as young as I was at the time this dropped (around 14 or 15), trust me, I've never heard someone rhyme like that before. A perfect example where Kweli runs free on the mic is the song "Some Kind Of Wonderful". Another track that stood out was "The Blast" where even Hi Teck spits a verse that is also dope (the video had Talib doing two verses, but that is not on here. I'm kinda mad, since this is reissued).

Guest appearances are dope as well. My favorite would be Xzibit and Rah Digga popping up for the song "Down For The Count". Another would be the De La Soul contributed verses in "Soul Rebels". Production is also excellent by Hi Teck. Some of the song here are kind of laid back to listen to, but you can easily catch a vibe towards them.

"Reflection Eternal" (or "Train Of Thought" to some people) is one album that I can enjoy on many levels again and again. I remember listening to this album back in high school, and only a hand full of people knew who these guys were. If you ever get a chance, pick this us. The production on here is soothing and can clear your mind. If you are not familiar with Kweli, you might want to check out "Mos Def & Talib Kweli are Black Star". I just found out Hi Teck was in a group called Mood back in '97 and will listen to that as well. Arguably one of the best that came out of Rawkus. Word up.

Lyrics: A+
Production: A+
Guest Appearances: A+
Musical Vibes: A+
Overall: A+

Favorite Tracks: Move Somethin', Some Kind Of Wonderful, The Blast, This Means You, Memories Live, African Dream, Down For The Count, Name Of The Game, On My Way, Love Language, Soul Rebels, Touch You, For Women (Bonus Track)

Honorable Mention: Good Morning

Peace Everyone!!!

Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought: Best CD you've never heard of.......2006-12-20

One of the best albums I've ever heard, I'd give it 6 stars if Amazon let me. With the exception of Gangstarr (though I think Kweli is lyrically superior to Guru), I have never heard an MC and producer mesh so effortlessly on a consistent basis like Kweli and Hi-Tek. This is a CD I put in and listen to without touching a button.

Both Talib and Hi-Tek display impressive versatility in their respective trades, starting the CD with a party track like "Move Something," then moving to songs like "Memories Live," and "Love Language". You see Hi-Tek's jazz influence in songs like "Love Speakeasy," and "Good Mourning,". I also love the Nina Simone samples. The bonus track "For/Four Women," is a song which chronicles the trials and tribulations of Black Women since they arrived to this country centuries ago. Finally, on a personal note, "The Blast" is my favorite song in the whole wide world. Not saying you should care, but that tells you how I feel about this CD. I will listen to this when I'm 50 years old and I have no doubt about that.

That being said, it absolutely KILLS me that Kweli later comes out with LPs like "Quality" and "Beautiful Struggle," and gets very few to no tracks from Hi-Tek. It boggles my mind. When you look at the results of Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought and Blackstar, it becomes clear that the duo makes great and refreshingly intelligent music. In today's rap climate, that is clearly not the norm. I don't have an afro and I don't wear Cowrie shells or dashikis, but yes, it is great to hear rap music of some substance, celebrating black music and black people. I still treasure my copies of Reasonable Doubt, Illmatic and Life After Death, but this one's also in my special CD case...

The CD is a blast.......2006-10-09

I love the concious rap, the nature of it is so real. I can go by these tracks because of what they represent; the essence. The top 5 songs of the album:
1 The Blast
2 move somthin
3 Down for the Count
4 Good Mourning
5 Eternalists

Very impressive........2006-09-01

I'm always up for intelligent hip-hop, and "Reflection Eternal/Train Of thought" is filled to the brim with creative rhymes, head-bobbing beats, and powerful messages. For example, "Too Late" is a song that mourns hip-hop's downfall. "Nowadays rap artists coming half-hearted/Commercial like pop or underground like black markets/Where were you the day hip-hop died?" It's so true it's almost eerie. Plus, the beat is amazing.

Another note-worthy song is "Name of the Game". An amazing piano sample plays in the backround, and Talib's crazy MC skills are practically jaw-dropping:

"'The name of the game is..'
Persistance, dedication
Consistant motivation
Resistance to stagnation of information
Distribute it free to the entire population
No hesitation
Makin it public
No privitazation from corporations"

Genius!! Seriously, no true hip-hop collection is complete without this gem. "RE/TOT" is sure to be remembered for years to come.

Brought a tear to my eye!.......2006-05-31

This is an absolutely amazing album created by the reflection eternal. Another release that focuses on making classic songs that mean something positive to people. Songs that you can play twenty years from now and they are still dope and relevent to your life. Support emcees that have talent, not materialistic artists that make songs that will help you into a jail cell.

Average customer rating: Strange... 3.5 stars: Good but a bit uneven Haunting and unforgettable Buy the movie.. and Buy this soudtrack. Jon Brion is amazing. Every bit is quirky and poignantly beautiful as the movie

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Various Artists , and Jon Brion Manufacturer: Hollywood Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Garage Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Garden State I Heart Huckabees (Score) The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind (Widescreen Edition) Punch Drunk Love (Score) ASIN: B0001IXU1W Release Date: 2004-03-16

Tracks:

1. Theme
2. Mr. Blue Sky - E.L.O.
3. Collecting Things
4. Light & Day - The Polyphonic Spree
5. Bookstore
6. It's The Sun (KCRW Morning Becomes Eclectic Version) - The Polyphonic Spree
7. Wada Na Tad - Lata Mangeshkar
8. Showtime
9. Everybody's Gotta Learn Sometimes - Beck
10. Sidewalk Flight
11. Some Kinda Shuffle - Don Nelson
12. Howard Makes It All Go Away
13. Something - The Willowz
14. Postcard
15. I Wonder - The Willowz
16. Peer Pressure
17. A Dream Upon Waking
18. Strings That Tie To You
19. Phone Call
20. Nola's Bounce - Don Nelson
21. Down The Drain
22. Row
23. Drive In
24. Main Title
25. Spotless Mind
26. Elephant Parade

Amazon.com

With his soundtrack for Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Jon Brion has carefully crafted music every bit as quirky (and fascinating) as the movie itself. As he did with Magnolia and Punch Drunk Love, Brion has made a varied score filled with odd instrumentation, infectious melodies, and at least one or two near-perfect pop songs. Best of all, these offbeat tracks compliment the movie incredibly well, and stand on their own as great listening. Mood-wise, this soundtrack is all over the map: "Row" is a simple, haunting piano solo; the movie's opening theme sounds like the austere and melancholic notes of an antique music box; while the strings on "Drive In" are playful and inquisitive. Even the non-instrumental tracks are gems: Beck's "Everybody's Gotta Learn Sometime" and Brion's "Strings That Tie You" rank among these artists' best songs. A handful of well-chosen tracks from E.L.O., the Polyphonic Spree, and the Willowz rounds out this thought provoking disc. A gem. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Strange..........2007-06-29

I LOVE the first song. Also the song by Beck is just beautiful. The rest of it, in my opinion, leaves much to be desired. But those two songs were enough to make me buy it and not regret it.

3.5 stars: Good but a bit uneven.......2007-03-31

"Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" is one of my favorite films to come out in the past several years. To be honest, I would have preferred to hear more of Jon Brion's original music. Jon's theme song is a perfect example. I just love the theme song. It was a great opener. Jon's film score is subtle and never manipulatively over dramatic like those by Hans Zimmer and John Williams. The inclusion of Lata Mangeshkar's "Wada No Tod" seemed to be questionable. The song sounded so out of place on an album that consisted of past and present artists and a bunch of instrumentals. I did love both songs by The Polyphonic Spree. Those songs are very catchy and playful. I even enjoyed the song by Beck an artist I find grossly overrated. The two songs by The Willowz were absolutely unnecessary. They are one of the most untalented bands I have ever heard. "Eternal Sunshine..." is a good soundtrack but not the best I have heard.

Haunting and unforgettable.......2007-01-31

I heard a sound byte from this CD on NPR just this morning and immediately was taken back to that scene where a young Joel Barish catches raindrops on his tongue and dives under an awning to escape the downpour. The music complements the movie in a way that I can't quite explain. This soundtrack epitomizes the importance of music in a film's success.

Buy the movie.. and Buy this soudtrack. Jon Brion is amazing........2006-07-26

Jon Brion does such a great job capturing emotion with great music. hes also so damn great and fitting sound witht the mood of a movie. if you liked this movie, by all means, buy the soundtrack. you will not be dissapointed. Eevery time it listen it not only reminds me of the amazing movie, it makes me feel.. just.. good.
Also, be sure to pick up his solo record, Meaningless.

IF YOU LIKED THE MOVIE, BUY THIS CD, YOU WONT REGRET IT!

Every bit is quirky and poignantly beautiful as the movie.......2006-05-26

Say what you will prodigy children of the MTV and VH1 generation!! The fact remains that this movie is easily on the most original love stories you will be coming across anytime soon. Every single person involved in this went the extra mile to making it the miracle that it is. It took me while to pick this baby up because of the obscene price ( hey sue me I'm a college student) but I feel it was definitely worth every single penny. It is just like being thrown back into the movie all over again. Easily the best soundtrack since City of Angels. I espcially like the tracks phone call and bookstore.

My highest possible recommendation.
Warning though; this cd is not for the light at heart

Average customer rating: Brilliant! My Birthday Present to me Amazing voice One of the Best Battle and Marsalis scintillating and stunning

Kathleen Battle · Wynton Marsalis ~ Baroque Duet / Anthony Newman · Orch St. Luke's · Nelson George Frideric Handel , Alessandro Scarlatti , Luca Antonio Predieri , Alessandro Stradella , Johann Sebastian Bach , John Nelson , Kathleen Battle , Wynton Marsalis , Orchestra of St. Lukes , Anthony Newman , John T. Kulowitsch , Krista Bennion Feeney , Eriko Sato , and Marc Goldberg Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Alessandro Scarlatti | Scarlatti, Alessandro | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Stradella | Stradella, Alessandro | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Trio Sonatas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Battle, Kathleen | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Kathleen Battle Sings Mozart Wynton Marsalis - Baroque Music for Trumpet The Bach Album Kathleen Battle & Christopher Parkening ~ Pleasures of Their Company Spirituals in Concert ASIN: B0000027C1 Release Date: 1992-04-21

Tracks:

1. Let The Bright Seraphim
2. No 1: Si Suoni La Tromba
3. No. 3: Con Voce Festiva
4. No. 4: Rompe Sprezza
5. No. 6: Mio Tesoro Per Te Moro (Aria In Forma Di Menuet Alla Francese)
6. I. Sinfonia. Grave
7. II. Recitativo
8. III. Sinfonia-Aria
9. IV. Recitativo
10. V. Aria. Largo
11. VI. Aria. Poco Mosso, Sempre Dolce E Leggiero-Ritornello
12. VII. Recitativo
13. VIII. Aria-Sinfonia. Grave (Da Capo)
14. Eternal Source Of Light Divine
15. Pace Una Volta
16. I. Spiritosa, E Staccata
17. II. (Allegretto-Corrente)
18. III. Canzone
19. IV. (Allegro)
20. Seufzer, Tranen, Kummer, Not
21. Alle Voci Del Bronzo Guerriero
22. I. Aria: Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen
23. IV. Chorale: Sei Lob Und Preis Mit Ehren; Alleluja

Customer Reviews:

Brilliant! .......2007-05-31

Spectacular display of brilliance and harmony. Truly, two masters of their respective disciplines melding together to display flawless virtuosity. Wynton Marsalis not only tames the piccolo beast, but somehow expertly mimics the human voice. And not just any voice, but the bright edgeless tone of Kathleen Battle. If you love Baroque, at any level, this is a must buy!

My Birthday Present to me.......2007-05-29

Actually, I was driving and I heard it on the radio. Luckily, the radio station has a website to see what played at what time. After getting goose bumps listening to the little I did on my birthday, I knew I had to have it. Its since been downloaded on my ipod. If you want to feel uplifted, and joyous listen to this wonderful CD . Kathleen Battles voice and Wynton Marsalis trumpet playing is phenominal. My favorites are the last 7 or 8 cuts of the CD especially.

Amazing voice.......2007-05-13

What an amazing voice this woman has. Pairing her with Wynton Marsalis was a match made in musical heaven.

One of the Best.......2007-01-05

I heard cuts from this CD on the radio one early Sunday morning last year. Mesmerized, I ordered it and continue to be zoned out on this incredibly beautiful music masterfully executed by Marsalis and Battle.

Battle and Marsalis scintillating and stunning.......2006-12-28

The making of this album was filmed in a wonderful documentary that brings to the fore the vulnerability and humanity of both artists. Marsalis and Battle are close friends, and the album itself is clearly a labor of love; Marsalis, who stopped performing classical trumpet in the late 80's, returned to the form when Battle was ready to make this recording.

The album is packed with regal music and royal performances. Bach's 51st cantata is particularly captivating, what with its technical demands and relentless pace. But Battle and Marsalis are able to derive strength and energy from one another in the film - through the difficult preparation process of confronting its daunting technical minefield - to realize a stunning result.

Bravo! Their contribution to the recorded corpus here is sublime.

Average customer rating: One of the true classics of Rock and Roll pure genius........ For All Those People Who Hate The Doors.............. Some Are Born to the Endless Night..... The Doors debut arrives nearly unscathed in the wake of the hippy era....

The Doors The Doors Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Proto Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Supergroups | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Strange Days L.A. Woman Morrison Hotel Waiting for the Sun The Soft Parade ASIN: B000002I25 Release Date: 1990-10-25

Amazon.com essential recording

On their 1967 debut album, the Doors more than fulfilled the promise of their infamously challenging gigs around Los Angeles throughout the previous year. Whether belting out a standard like "Back Door Man" or talk-singing such originals as "The Crystal Ship" and "I Looked at You," leather-clad vocalist Jim Morrison exuded both sensuality and menace. The mixture, on the outsize album finale, "The End," helped rewrite the rules on rock song composition. None of this would have worked, though, were it not for the highly visual instrumental work of keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robbie Krieger, and drummer John Densmore, whose work on tracks such as "Take It As It Comes" and the lengthy hit "Light My Fire" virtually defined the rock-blues-jazz-classical amalgam that was acid-rock. --Billy Altman

Album Description

Limited edition pressing of their smash #2 debut from 1967on 180 gram virgin vinyl, and packaged in a thick sealedpolythene bag to protect the album. Includes the originalartwork on a deluxe heavy duty sleeve with the originalsleeve notes. Features the #1 hit 'Light My Fire', plus theAOR classics 'Break On Through (To The Other Side)', 'SoulKitchen', 'The Crystal Ship', 'Back Door Man' and the epiclove song 'The End'. 11 tracks total. 1998 Simply Vinylrelease licensed from Elektra Records. Black wax.

Customer Reviews:

One of the true classics of Rock and Roll.......2007-06-10

This is the first album by the Doors. I can remember hearing the "Short Version of Light my Fire on the radio back in 1967 when the album was first released. If you were lucky and had an FM radio station like we did in the LA Area then you could hear the "Long Version"
Light my Fire was not written by Jim Morrison but guitarist Robby Krieger instead and remains one of the Masterpieces of Rock.
The rest of the album also contains classics such as "The Crystal Ship", 20th Century Fox, Soul Kitchen, Whiskey bar and the Long and drawn out The End
If you are new to the music of the Doors, this is absolutely the place to start, personally I would buy this even before I would buy a Greatest Hits CD.................Enjoy

pure genius...............2007-05-17

If you want to listen to a great example of the psychedelic rock of the 1960s, played by one of the most definitive bands of that generation (and perhaps of all time), look no further than The Doors' self-titled album (originally released in 1966). Lead singer Jim Morrison was the stuff of legends, for reasons that are very apparent. He was a highly charismatic (and, at times, very unsettling) figurehead of his generation, and a rock music icon that continues to haunt people today, as a fallen legend. The bands' penchant for excessive drug use is alluded to on many occasions on this album (hence, that is why they call it psychedelic rock--this music was composed specifically for the purpose of appealing to people sailing off on to acid trip induced journeys in their minds).

Though, I have never done a drug in my life, even I felt high after listening to these songs. Some of the most well-known and appreciated songs from The Doors' repertoire are featured here. They include "Break on Through (To the Other Side)," "The Crystal Ship," "Light My Fire," and "The End." (among others) Between Jim Morrison's piercing and (no doubt) slightly menacing vocals, charged guitar and percussive work from the other musicians and lyrics rich with double (and triple) entendre, you'll come away from this music feeling more than slightly rummy. Then, once you come down from that contact high, you'll want to go on that trip all over again.

For All Those People Who Hate The Doors.....................2007-05-02

get your head out of your a*s and stop calling them overrated. There nothing but UNDERRATED. I know that The Doors are alittle like coffee. It takes a acquired taste to like them. Just because you hate them, don't say they were never good and they always sucked. If you are the braindead moron who says stuff like that, you deserve to get stuffed in a kiln. Now about the album. I THINK that this is the best debut album ever. It has that dark, frightning, mood to it. Every song is great, even the fillers. There are some funny moments, some wierd moments, and other moments that just leave your jaw droped. The first time I listened to The End, I was stunned. I couldn't believe what I heard. It was just so crazy and so out there. That brings up another point about The Doors haters. They say that Jim was just a stupid, drunk, druged up idiot who couldn't stop talking. Thats just stupidity. Sure he was high alot and he drank alot, but thats not why all the songs are crazy. He wrote alot of those songs as poems in high school, before he discovered drugs. He had an IQ of 149 in high school. Thats smarter then most of us. Jim was different. He had some crazy stuff going on in his head. But thats what makes him such a famous person. This album is the intro to The Doors and Jim. It takes you into places you have never been before. You don't have to be blazed to love this music. I have never taken any drug in my entire life, yet the Doors are my favorite band ever. BY FAR. They were not a regular band, they were not a drug band, they were not a bad band. They were exactly what there name says. They were The Doors into another realm.
BREAK ON THROUGH.

Some Are Born to the Endless Night............2007-04-29

Some have accused your favorite Seer of being shamanistic. This view is not without merit. But, I did not get my abilites from a dying indian on the roadside. No. I was not that fortunate. It happened at a roulette table in Vegas. But, as my guides will testify, it was totally by accident. I do, sometimes, go camping and stay in a teepee. But, that is where all similarities end.
I have no choice but to look at this album in retrospect and try to explain why the Doors were so monumental in their age. Certainly, they had a very unique sound and, aside from the expected pleading and exhortation to lure assorted females, there was also the underpinnings of dread and death hidden and not so hidden within the lyrics.
This is not to say that Manzarek, Krieger and Densmore did not contribute their craftsmanship to the sound. In fact, they were far superior in that respect to many at the time. They provided the landscape, the moods, the nuances that were so essential to match the poetry of Jim Morrison. The sound was so different at the time. They could be concise with great rythmns and major riffs, but, in large part, they were masters of the long jam. And I hate to call it a jam per se. I prefer the phrase of musical excursions. But, whatever you deem it to be, it is as mystical and alluring as smoke rings from a fire at an indian encampment.
Alot of why this sounds so good, even today, is owed to their great producer, Paul A. Rothchild. I had the good fortune to meet him one time. A short man with wire rim glasses and a pony tale. He then ran off before I had a chance to really gather alot of information about Morrison. But, I did manage to get the story that after a big New York concert, Jim bit his hands til they bled. This is perfectly understandable if you analyze his lyrics, which can be quite revealing.
But, I digress. The Doors is an amazing debut album in it's own right. It starts with "Break On Through (to the other side)" and I see Jim's dilemma of being between dark and light and the need, somehow, to escape his position. Death? Well, maybe. But there definitely is a dark side in many of his phrases. Take "Crystal Ship" for example. "The days are bright-but filled with pain", and it is his hope that he is delivered from it. Sex was such an important part of his personality. I think, to him, sex and death became synonymous with total release. It was the death of the soul, melting into another soul, and entering some sort of transcendence. Far-fetched? Maybe. But one of the great lines, from "Light My Fire" is "and our love will be a funereal pyre". Now, I must tell you that not too many people knew what a pyre was. Yet, he incorporated that into popular culture. It's like him to emulate love to a funereal pyre. Isn't death a defining theme in his life? Many think so.
The album is sprinkled with some really great songs. The bar room rousing of "Alabama Song", the rock sway pop of "Soul Kitchen" and "Twentieth Century Fox". Masterful and concise. And let's not forget the blues grit of "Back Door Man". How appropriate. Jim certainly did know that the little girls understand.
But, however uplifting these compositions may be, Morrison's poetry inevitably gives him away. "End of the Night" could be a yearning for the end of his nightmare. The song itself is slow and laboured, revealing a tiredness and heavy burden. Some are born to the endless night.
We then come to the end of the album with the fitting song "The End". I am always fascinated by this song. I feel like it's the backdrop to an opium den somewhere, But more than that, it's a bird eye's view into his mind. We are treated to Jim's tortured Freudian psychology. But, it also conveys stream-of-conciousness to his netherworld. "Weird Scenes inside the Goldmine", "Ride the Snake", "the West is the Best" etc. etc. We are all caught on a ride of interesting emotions. All the Doors lure us in on this one, and you can't help but ride the blue bus with them.
As evidenced with this album, and the ones that followed, I think it was only a matter of time until Jim imploded. But, in answer to why they were so monumental lies in the quality of their music and Morrison's monsterously creative torture. He was a deadly time bomb waiting to explode, but on the way to that point, he put all his universal force that was within him to give. He was totally unique and the constant seeker to the answer of the universe. There will never be another Morrison.
In closing, a true classic and essential for anyone's rock collection.
I must go now. My fragile egg-shelled mind is starting to hurt. Oh well.

Ride the King's Highway---your confounding but dubious Metamorpho

The Doors debut arrives nearly unscathed in the wake of the hippy era...........2007-01-10

The Doors album hit shelves in January of 1967: few recordings have ever had as grand a signature of its time as this one, encapsulating the "self-discovery" phase, freedom, and free love of the hippy era. As whether it was singing about the apocalypse caused by the nation's youth (The End) or displaying sexual desires (Back Door Man,) vocalist, and all-American freedom poet/songwriter, Jim Morrison, showed a knack for emotion, satire, politics, and seemed to have a heart of gold, that only the finest writers can have. Much of the album is some of the best music to come out of this period of art renaissance, creating a riptide in the musical world for years to come. Songs like Break on Through (To the Other Side,) and Twentieth Century Fox are either divinely written, or supremely catchy in their bluesy rhythm that it will linger in the audiences' mind for days. The band that would go on, much like The Beatles, to inspire countless garage bands, delivered something that few bands can in a debut: a classic, hailed as one of the best artifacts of its era. Yet, it should be said, that despite three songs (out of the 11) that are not up to the snuff with the prime seven, and the last track, The End, of which seemingly never ends, the listener will still know upon the last note of the album, that they have just heard a timeless slice of America, history, and crystallized emotion. In other words, "The Doors" is what the words "great," and "timeless," are made for.

**** ½ (Out of 5)

Average customer rating: Quintessential... 4.5, only because of the length, 5 for overall rating Not Bad...for a FREE release

Liberation Talib Kweli & Madlib ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: True Magic Ruff Draft Uncommonly Nasty Talib Kweli:Brooklyn Tennessee (Mixtape) Finding Forever ASIN: B000O3QSF4

Customer Reviews:

Quintessential..........2007-04-04

If you haven't gotten this album or if you're unsure if you'll like it, don't be! Kweli is a quintessential part of hip hop and if you're a hip hop head and you don't get this now you'll be paying double for it later. Madlib's beats and kweli's impeccable delivery and punchlines are a force to be recognized. Madlib is a producer I think people have been overlooking for a while, but he made a serious statement on this cd. He's the best kind of producer, the one that has a unique style and can tailor that style to his artist. So if you buy this you should definately purchase his other cds. Add to that the fact that Kweli is one of those great rappers that only gets better with time and buying this cd becomes an investment. As Kweli said, "the era of the bullsh^t is over."

4.5, only because of the length, 5 for overall rating.......2007-03-31

This colab with madlib was a great to listen too. I was lucky enough to get it at the cheaper price. I feel that Ta and Lib are an interesting match and I think they should do future projects. The production on this album is unique and innovative, the lyrics powerful. My only problem with this is that it is meant to be a treat to their fans and was made very short in length. To me the songs are not "rushed"... (it is an "EP" release, with only 9 tracks.)
Also I wish Lib would have done alittle MC'ing with Ta. I know some say this is not his strong area, but I disagree, Lib mc'ing would have added alittle flair to this colab, Ta could have been maybe Quas's little cousin???!!!. This will be a rare one so get it.

Not Bad...for a FREE release.......2007-03-12

This album was released on New Years Eve of 2007, available only as an internet-only download to visitors of the Stone's Throw record label website. It contains 9 tracks:

1. The Show
2. Funny Money
3. Time Is Right
4. Engine Runnin' (featuring Consequence)
5. Over the Counter
6. The Function (featuring Strong Arm Steady)
7. Happy Home (featuring Candice Anderson)
8. Soul Music (featuring Res)
9. What Can I Do

I would say about half of these tracks hit their mark, while the other half feels a bit rushed or, and I hate to say this, under-produced.

What you will get: a few nice new rhymes from Kweli, beats from Madlib

What you don't get: a true "collaboration" that feels like both artists are on the same page. I love both artists individually, but there's a little something off here.

The standouts are "The Show" "Time is Right" "Engine Running" and "What Can I Do?"

Are four tracks worth $20? Its up to you.

Average customer rating: More of Bob Florence's Creative Spirit

Eternal Licks and Grooves Bob Florence Manufacturer: Mama Jazz Foundation ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Contemporary Big Band | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Up and Running Hommage Plays Well With Others Fast Track Turn up the Heath ASIN: B000N60H68 Release Date: 2007-03-13

Tracks:

1. Eternal Licks & Grooves
2. Claire De Lune
3. Mirror Images
4. Guiding Star
5. Invitation
6. I'm Old Fashioned
7. Appearing In Cleveland

Album Description

"Few have the touch of Bob Florence." -- JazzTimes

"Bob Florence is a pianist of unequalled harmonic virtuosity, as well as a composer and arranger of both sensitivity and power. Florence brings a mystical romanticism on the one hand and a driving potency on the other ... he assembles the finest musicians in the world and they respond brilliantly as a unit and individually." -- Jazz Review

"No other big band arranger and composer does it quite like Bob Florence does. Pyramid entrances by section and by individual, suite-like compositions that pierce the air with vivid memories, dramatic context that puts the listener on the edge of his seat, humorous asides and funny titles: these are the elements that intrigue both the performing artist and the satisfied audience." -- John Gilbert

"Swinging and original-sounding music and arrangements from a multitalented musician who has been a composer, arranger, bandleader, keyboardist, accompanist, and jazz educator ... the musicians in this band are obviously here because they love it and the results do sound like it." -- Audiophile Audition

The first new recording on MAMA in years! Bob Florence is a Grammy Award winner and has received an incredible fifteen Grammy nominations in addition to two Emmy Awards. "Eternal Licks & Grooves," commissioned by ASCAP and IAJE to honor Count Basie, premiered in January 2005 at the IAJE convention in Long Beach. "Appearing in Cleveland," commissioned by the Los Angeles Jazz Institute to honor Stan Kenton, premiered in March 2004 at the Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles.

Customer Reviews:

More of Bob Florence's Creative Spirit.......2007-04-09

The announced release date of a new Bob Florence Limited Edition CD always brings a heightened degree of anticipation within the big band jazz community. This is because Bob Florence is arguably the pre-eminent composer/arranger in big band jazz today (and certainly among the top three). Furthermore, the Limited Edition band ranks just as highly within the echelon of large jazz ensembles. But "Eternal Licks and Grooves" (recorded in 2006 or perhaps 2005 - the Cd booklet is not clear), raised even more anticipation among big band afficionados than usual. This was probably due to the fact that the CD would contain two of Bob's most recent major compositions which had been heard in concert over the past few years. Well, now that the CD is here, it is a joy to report that it meets and even exceeds all expectations.

What must be commented on first are these major compositions, both 14 minutes in length. The title track which opens the CD is Bob's tribute to Count Basie, while "Appearing in Cleveland" which closes the CD, is Bob's tribute to Stan Kenton. These compositions are most interesting in that each draws on major themes from these bandleaders' respective repertoires, yet in the end come across as pure Bob Florence, hard-driving, cutting edge (but within limits), creative jazz which both surprises and satisfies the listener.

But in truth Bob's creative spirit shines throughout the CD, on two more Florence originals, "Mirror Image" and Guiding Star", as well as three standards, "Clair De Lune", "Invitation" and "I'm Old Fashioned". Bob's ability to start a chart slowly and build it to a dramatic climax while keeping the listener fully engaged on the road is unparalleled. "Invitation" is a prime example, opening with Bob's reflective piano solo, building through a series of theme statements and swinging solos to a roaring shout chorus. Something similar takes place on "Clair De Lune", and on the more gentle "Mirror Image."

Florence's Limited Edition is gifted with the best musicians possible, and they dig into the music with great spirit and drive, and also much deep feeling when needed. For the latter, check out Bob Carr on baritone sax and Bob McChesney on trombone on "Guiding Star", and Alex Isles on trombone on "Old Fashioned" which is one the most beautiful theme statements this listener has ever heard. The band's ensemble playing is impeccable with top drawer soloists such as trumpeters Larry Lunnetta, Ron Stout, Carl Saunders and Steve Huffsteter, trombonist Scott Whitfield, saxophonists Kim Richmond, Don Shelton, Jeff Driskoll, Tom Peterson and Bob Efford adding personal and powerful statements. Perhaps the star of the CD apart from the leader is guitarist Larry Koonse whose comping and solos add a slightly different but most effective color to the music. Be not afraid, Koonse is no rock `n roll guitar distorter! The rhythm section of Peter Erskine on drums and Trey Henry on bass drive these often complex charts with flair and driving swing.

"Eternal Licks" and Grooves" is a masterpiece 70 minute CD, perhaps slightly more accessible on initial listening than a couple of Bob's recent Limited Edition recordings. The recording quality is very clear and well balanced, though a little distant, so that one will have to turn up the volume to get the full dynamic impact of the music (especially the shout choruses). "Eternal Licks and Grooves" is highly recommended to listeners of modern big band jazz and will certainly be among the top three or four big band releases of 2007. For many listeners it will be at the top of the list.

Pop Music:

1. Free
2. Going Places [Original recording remastered]
3. Gold Sounds
4. Head Hunters [Original recording remastered]
5. Heavy Weather [Original recording remastered]
6. I Have the Room Above Her
7. Incredible Jazz Guitar
8. Joyous Encounter
9. Looking Up
10. Midnight Blue [Original recording remastered]

Pop Music