| 1. Fruit Trader |
| 2. Your Life Is Now |
| 3. Positively Crazy |
| 4. I'm Not Running Anymore |
| 5. It All Comes True |
| 6. Eden Is Burning |
| 7. Where the World Began |
| 8. Miss Missy |
| 9. Chance Meeting at the Tarantula |
| 10. Break Me off Some |
| 11. Summer of Love |
| 12. Days of Farewell |
Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
For the multinomenclatured John(ny) (Cougar) Mellencamp, falling into loping historical pace as the "poor man's Springsteen" has been a blessing in disguise. If you're perpetually second best, to whose expectations do you ultimately answer? Certainly not your audience's--they're prepared for so-so songwriting. It's a win-win situation in which even your most lackluster material appears "Thunder Road" brilliant. Follow this train of thinking and you might hear Mellencamp's eponymous album (and first for Columbia) as something of a minor masterpiece. The self-dubbed Li'l Bastard is pushing himself stylistically, adding exotic flavors (sitar, tabla, organ) and high-tech ones (tape loops, synths) to his bass-guitar-violin foundation. This provides for some intriguing moments, such as the rhythm-tracked shuffle "I'm On My Way" and the hip-hop-scratchy exercise "Break Me Off Some." The uninitiated, however, will observe a far less sensational situation: the Hoosier's nonchalant reliance on his trademark Cougar-isms--Biblical metaphors, "Jack and Diane"-ish one-dimensional characters, and the simple, chirrupy jangle of a trusty six-string acoustic. Somewhere between the two extremes lies the artistic truth. Mellencamp is kicking desperately at his gate, and that's a good thing. But his corral remains relatively small and limited. There aren't any Ghost of Tom Joads in his immediate future. --Tom Lanham
Product Description
Special edition of Mellencamp's label debut for Columbia with a two track bonus CD featuring live versions of 'Your Life Is Now' & 'Eden Is Burning'. A combined total of 14 tracks. Double slimline jewel case. 1998 release. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
John Mellencamp
You can also get this double album in a version that comes with a DVD (check first which version you are buying as the Amazon one on this page I'm reviewing is just two CDs) but even just the double CD of music is more than worth whatever the price is.
Mellencamp always had a message, a bit simplistic at times, but on the money at other times with such wonderful parodies of Small Town America as Pink Houses and Small Town. Many of his early songs were about the devastating agricultural crisis of the 80s, and how bureaucrats and banking institutions had sold out farmers. Mellencamp also sang of more simplistic yearnings such as Jack & Diane and Authority Song, about teenage love and bucking authority. All in all this is a great collection of music, sure to please Mellencamp fans, and at an irresistable price.
If you miss this one, there may not be another for years to come...
and that comes from one who not a big John Mellencamp fan.
This is another one of those "best of" compilations. If you're new to John or just want to hear the hits (up until 1988), this is a good CD to get. If you'd like to hear what John is really about, I think you should get the individual albums. Although all the songs here are greats, it's almost too skimpy of a collection to fully appreciate John's great music. Still, it's good fun to have all the hits in one place for easy listening convenience, and I do recommend it.
If you love John Cougar Mellencamp, this is a CD you must have.
All in all, this is my favorite release from John Mellencamp, even if parts of R.O.C.K in the USA sound like the Pretender's song Middle of the Road. Highly recommended!
Mellencamp is one of those rare, naturally gifted artists who works straight from the soul. His music is transported to those fortunate enough to hear it. His lyrics are raw, cutting edge, sharp and brilliant. He makes his listeners FEEL his raw emotions, experience the world as he knew it through his songs.
His musical vignettes, such as "Jack & Diane" will remain timeless classics; his stellar hit "Small Town" is a unifier that could be about any town under the sun.
The title song "Rain on the Scarecrow" is a musical account of farm living. In fact, it was Mellencamp, Willie Nelson, Neil Young and others who banded together for Farm Aid to help independent farmers. Mellencamp's cause has grown deep roots into the farmlands of each person's experience. So has his excellent music.
"Minutes to Memories" does indeed show a maturing Mellencamp; a man who is at home with and at peace with himself and his life. His music is the voice of life experience; it is also the voice of shared life experience. In short, Mellencamp's work is a form of cultural sharing.
Listeners will undoubtedly love this collection; no doubt you will be R-O-C-K-I-N' your heart out as you sing and dance along to this collection. Mellecamp's multitude of musical vocal styles will certainly keep you avidly listening and hoping for more.
Mellencamp R-O-C-K-S!
Scarecrow is comprised of songs from middle America about middle America. John Mellencamp proudly sings of his small town roots in the song that is probably THE quintessential single from his storied career. Of course this disc carries another other big hit, "Lonely Ol' Night." Everybody knows those tunes, and they certainly represent the essence of Scarecrow, but the heart and soul of this album are found elsewhere, on the lesser known tracks. The poignant "Between a Laugh and a Tear," the spirited "Rumbleseat," the reflective "Minutes to Memories," and the stirring "Rain on the Scarecrow" are examples of how potent these songs are in their own right. Collectively, these songs convey powerful messages about home, family, country, society, and life in general. I love every track on this disc, even the homey reprieve, "Grandma's Theme," which is guaranteed to conjure up memories of your own grandmother (or maybe great grandmother) in her rocking chair.
I must cite one track on Scarecrow that happens to be among my very favorite songs of all time: "Justice and Independence '85" is a driving rocker with clever lyrics and distinctively pounding drums. I have rarely heard percussion with such passion. The drums back Mellencamp's intense vocals to elevate this song into the stratosphere.
After Scarecrow, I don't believe that Mellencamp was as commercially successful with his subsequent releases, but he definitely continued to write some great music. Scarecrow was the crowning point of Mellencamp's career; it was a wildly popular album back in the mid 80's, and the music and themes you'll find here are as relevant today as they were over twenty years ago.
I wore out my first copy, so I bought another one. IF you think you don't like Mellencamp, but have never heard this one, give it a real listen. This one and Scarecrow might change your mind.
Really enjoying it
By far, it's his best and most mature work in his career.
I luv it, I have heard these songs played on the radio and thought
"Where can i get a copy of these tracks!".
Well here they are, in 1 neat little package.
Merry Rockn Xmas Next Year!
I e-mailed several times (3)inquiring about my order and not once received an e-mail back. Worst online experience ever, this coming from someone who does the majority of their shopping and all their bill pay online.
This is truly one of the best collections of the early 1980s and the standout collection of 1983. John Mellencamp is a damn good rocker and this collection will not disappoint!
Mellencamp catches his listeners' collective attention with "Crumblin' Down" and has established his rightful place in the ranks of [...] kickin' rockers.
His stellar classic "Pink Houses" is a wonderful unifer and the acoustics are nothing short of outstanding. It is a coast-to-coast and worldwide treat that will leave listeners pleading for more.
The "Authority Song" could be the story of my life. It is a damn good assertive piece that is demanding to be taken seriously. If ever there was a straight from the soul rock hit, this is the one.
"Play Guitar" is a damn good in your face rocking number. It's a poke in the macho eye with some damn good guitar playing and some hard, cutting edge lyrics. I love it!
You have from the heartland the rich rock from the heart of one of the best rockers that ever picked up a guitar. John Mellencamp is an elemental musical force - he is here to stay!
Be sure to get this along with "American Fool," "Scarecrow" and any of Mellencamp's other collections. You will be so glad that you did. Every song is worth it. Be prepared to dance.
Perhaps "Uh Huh" got released during the peak of the synth pop revolution of the early 1980s. But as 1985 came around, the music landscape was starting to undergo some changes. Only a about a year before, Bruce Springsteen had released "Born in the USA". I look at "Born in the USA" as a landmark album for many reasons, but perhaps one of the most important reasons is that it began to shift the sound of the 80s music scene away from synth-pop to a more natural guitar-laden sound. By 1985, other artists were now beginning to find commercial success with that sound - such as John Fogerty ("Centerfield"). Artists such as Springsteen and Fogerty were mixing their own musical roots with social commentary. Mellencamp's "Scarecrow" fits into this mold perfectly - and came along at the right time where the music fans were willing to embrace this style. However, Mellencamp's "Scarecrow" goes beyond this embracing - it delivers a most solid sound.
Here is a track by track breakdown of this album:
"Rain on the Scarecrow": This is the title track and not only the best song on the album, but I feel the best of Mellencamp's career. The song's opening immediately creates a haunting song. This is a song that Mellencamp sings about the plight of the American Farmers facing foreclosures. Mellencamp sings this song with pure passion. He does a great job at playing the role of the banker who is handling the foreclosure - "John, it's just my job and I hope you understand". This song featured a very good video - and the added sounds of a farm auction that are in that video give the song a new dimension. Listening to this song, you can see why Mellencamp felt so passionately about "Farm Aid".
"Grandma's Song": This public domain song is sung by Mellencamp's Grandmother, Laura Mellencamp. Not a great song, but it is a great lead-in to "Small Town".
"Small Town": The title says it all. This song is about a - small town. Back in 1986, radio overplayed this song - however looking back at it now - very good song.
"Minutes to Memories": I'd put this underrated song in the upper echelon of Mellencamp's work. This song is a great mix of Mellencamp's Social Commentary with his Middle America music. This is a narrative sung by Mellencamp about an elderly man who has seen things change around him. On top of the great lyrics, there is some great music as well.
"Lonely Ol' Night": This was the first song released from this album. This song almost is in the theme of "Jack and Diane" as it has the feel of a young man growing up in Middle America. This is a great song and probably lured a lot of people to buy this album.
"The Face of a Nation": This is a clear social/political commentary. When Mellencamp sings "You see people starvin' under the tree", it is clear that Mellencamp is looking at society and questioning how these things can happen.
"Justice and Independence": This song has a great melody, but it is also a bit of an symbolic allegory. "Independence" is a man who marries "Justice" who is a woman - they have a son named "Nation". Listen to the words carefully as Mellencamp uses the family as a way to compare to the concepts of Justice, Independence, and Nation we are all familiar with. Masterful songwriting - also some terrific percussion and trumpet work.
"Between a Laugh and a Tear": This is another underrated song that I put in the upper echelon of Mellencamp's career. This title might not indicate social commentary - but it's loaded with references - such as "When paradise is no longer fit for you to live in, and your adolescent dreams are gone". This song is a duet with Ricki Lee Jones and it blew me away.
"Rumbleseat": Kind of a song that takes you back to the 1950s - it has a retro feel to it. It seems to be more of a personal song of Mellencamp's own experiences - great stuff.
"You Gotta Stand For Somethin": I thought this was the toughest to get into, but lyrically it's a solid track. It almost takes you on a historical journey of pop culture from 1950 onward.
"R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A": Great song, but was overplayed on the radio. This is a tribute to the early pioneers of Rock and Roll.
"The Kind of Fella I am": Another great song. This song is basically about a jealous man. It's a fun song and nice way to wrap things up.
The liner notes contain all of the lyrics, songwriting, and musician credits. I love how you get the recording dates and times of the songs. This song is clearly the defining album of Mellencamp's career. It also has the best music that he did. Truly one of the underrated albums of the 1980s - I highly recommend it.
I'v technically been a fan since 1988, when i was living in Exeter New Hampshire."Jack and Diane" was the first song i ever heard in my life, i was 4 years old at the time and that was what started it all for me.I'v always had JM albums laying around since then in some form or another and listened to them quiet often.American Fool, Uh-HUH and Scarecrow were the ones i listened to the most.Scarecrow is one of the finest rock records ever commited to wax,and i think this utterly destroys Springsteen's much more popular Born in the U.S.A. album released a year earlier.JM is just a superior songwriter and preformer when compared to The Boss,mainly because you can hear where John's music is coming from, as demonstrated beautifuly by Scarecrow. This Album was predominatly inspired by John's life growing up in the farm land of his native Indiana,which is the first time i'v really seen a theme be put through a collection of songs(album).I won't go over every song here as to not sound redundant but i will mention the highlights. "Rain on the Scarecrow" is one of the best JM songs ever written, real anger is put through the songs lyrics which are about the plight of hard-working farmers losing their farmland to the govenment(can any one say Megadeth's "Forcolsure of a Dream"?). "Small Town" is a classic rock radio staple and the most famous song off of this album. "Face of a Nation" has a real edgy,moody beat and is one of my favorites from here. "Justice and Independence 85" is an attack on the American justice system. "R.O.C.K in the U.S.A" is a classic rock n roll song and the most upbeat tune found here. I could go on like this for every song, but i won't. The truth is that this whole album will get you, it is one of the most emotional albums i have ever listened too.While i enjoy everthing John has done, Scarecrow is his finest hour and i can't imagine my music collection with out it.It is really a timeless record, unlike alot of garbage that is(was) released in an effort to acheive the commercial cash cow.With this being his fifth studio effort, it is intersting to take a look progresivly at how John developed and evolved from his self titled debut all the way up to this one.He has definatly matured and progressed on each of his albums since the inception but you can see it most here.Some of the lyrics tackeled issues that were happening in 85 and in someways are still relevent today. Overall, this album is nothing short of amazing in every aspect;the musicianship,songwriting,lyrics,heart,emotion, this album has it in spades.
Have some great memories from listening to this album.When you compare it to the corprate junk that was coming out at the time in music, you will realize it was one of the most sincere and heartfelt rock records to come out of the 80's.You just can't go wrong with this one, in my top 10 of desert island CDs.
It made me a John Mellencamp fan for life, and it might make you one as well.
"Rain on the Scarecrow"- A great, pulsing, driving song, that is so different from anything else in Mellencamp's work. This song will make you angry, which is good.
"Small Town" - One of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time. The bridge ("No, I cannot forget, where it is that I come from; I cannot forget the people who love me.") just sends shivers down my spine. This is a guy who UNDERSTANDS what is real. Additionally, this is one of the most unconventionally written songs to ever be as popular as it was. There's not really a chorus, and there must be three different bridges. This is just a GREAT SONG, with absolutely no mistakes.
"Minutes to Memories" - Not the best written song on the record, but my favorite. This song just gets me every time I hear, "The old man told me this my son..I'm tellin' it to you." Once again, this guy understands what is real.
"Lonely Ol' Night" - This would have been even better if he'd saved it for Lonesome Jubilee. It really fits better on that record. Still an outstanding song.
"Rumbleseat" - Once again, the passage "I'm gonna stop putting myself down, I'm gonna turn my life around", just nails small town life on every level.
The rest of the record is great, but those songs are the ones that really stand out to me, and that I remember hearing on the radio twenty years ago. It's a crying shame that songs like these wouldn't even be played on the radio today, much less be the enormous hits they were in 1985. I remember "Small Town" being played so much that even I was a little tired of hearing it at the time. Now people would just laugh at it. SAD.
Enough has been written about this album, suffice to say this is one of the most important albums to come out of the 80s, if not the last century. A real masterpeice of lyrics, style, melodies and great singing.
A MUST for your music collection!
IF YOU NEED SOME NEW MUSIC, JUST BUY IT IF YOU DON'T OWN IT YET!
For the multinomenclatured John(ny) (Cougar) Mellencamp, falling into loping historical pace as the "poor man's Springsteen" has been a blessing in disguise. If you're perpetually second best, to whose expectations do you ultimately answer? Certainly not your audience's--they're prepared for so-so songwriting. It's a win-win situation in which even your most lackluster material appears "Thunder Road" brilliant. Follow this train of thinking and you might hear Mellencamp's eponymous album (and first for Columbia) as something of a minor masterpiece. The self-dubbed Li'l Bastard is pushing himself stylistically, adding exotic flavors (sitar, tabla, organ) and high-tech ones (tape loops, synths) to his bass-guitar-violin foundation. This provides for some intriguing moments, such as the rhythm-tracked shuffle "I'm On My Way" and the hip-hop-scratchy exercise "Break Me Off Some." The uninitiated, however, will observe a far less sensational situation: the Hoosier's nonchalant reliance on his trademark Cougar-isms--Biblical metaphors, "Jack and Diane"-ish one-dimensional characters, and the simple, chirrupy jangle of a trusty six-string acoustic. Somewhere between the two extremes lies the artistic truth. Mellencamp is kicking desperately at his gate, and that's a good thing. But his corral remains relatively small and limited. There aren't any Ghost of Tom Joads in his immediate future. --Tom Lanham
Product Description
Special edition of Mellencamp's label debut for Columbia with a two track bonus CD featuring live versions of 'Your Life Is Now' & 'Eden Is Burning'. A combined total of 14 tracks. Double slimline jewel case. 1998 release. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
John Mellencamp
John Mellencamp,John Mellencamp,Sony,Album Rock,Heartland Rock,Pop,Pop/Rock,Popular Music,Rock,Roots Rock
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Words & Music: John Mellencamp's Greatest Hits
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ASIN: B0002XL252 Release Date: 2004-10-19 |
Tracks:
- Walk Tall
- Pink Houses
- Lonely Ol' Night
- Jackie Brown
- Rain On The Scarecrow
- Love And Happiness
- Check It Out
- Peaceful World
- Paper In Fire
- Your Life Is Now
- Human Wheels
- When Jesus Left Birmingham
- Authority Song
- What If I Came Knocking
- Crumblin' Down
- Small Town
- R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A.
- Cherry Bomb
- Pop SInger
Tracks:
- Thank You
- Martha Say
- Key West Intermezzo (I Saw You First)
- Hand to Hold on To
- I Need a Lover
- Hurts So Good
- Get a Leg Up
- Wild Night
- Dance Naked
- Teardrops Will Fall
- Ain't Even Done With the Night
- Just Another Day
- Jack and Diane
- Rumble Seat
- I'm Not Running Anymore
- Again Tonight
- This Time
- Now More Than Ever
Amazon.com
Compare this to John Mellencamp's previous hits set, The Best That I Could Do 1978-1988, and it quickly becomes apparent how much the artist formerly known as John Cougar has grown in the second phase of his career. Following a 1994 heart attack, the songwriter transformed from cocky jukebox hero to compassionate everyman, trading in big pop riffs for sublime, politically charged songs that echo the outspoken work of Bruce Springsteen and Neil Young. Spanning 25 years, this 35-track set incorporates most of the last collection along with more recent hits over two discs in nonchronological order. --Aidin VaziriCustomer Reviews:
review songs.......2007-06-11
John Mellencamp's.......2007-05-03
Words Can't Say How Good This Music is!.......2007-03-31
You can also get this double album in a version that comes with a DVD (check first which version you are buying as the Amazon one on this page I'm reviewing is just two CDs) but even just the double CD of music is more than worth whatever the price is.
Words & Music/ John Mellencamps greatest hits.......2007-03-09
Words and music and much more.......2007-02-14
Mellencamp always had a message, a bit simplistic at times, but on the money at other times with such wonderful parodies of Small Town America as Pink Houses and Small Town. Many of his early songs were about the devastating agricultural crisis of the 80s, and how bureaucrats and banking institutions had sold out farmers. Mellencamp also sang of more simplistic yearnings such as Jack & Diane and Authority Song, about teenage love and bucking authority. All in all this is a great collection of music, sure to please Mellencamp fans, and at an irresistable price.
Average customer rating: 
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Freedom's Road
John Mellencamp Manufacturer: Universal Republic ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General
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ASIN: B000KGGZXA Release Date: 2007-01-23 |
Tracks:
- Someday
- Ghost Towns Along The Highway
- The Americans
- Forgiveness
- Freedom's Road
- Jim Crow
- Our Country
- Rural Route
- My Aeroplane
- Heaven Is A Lonely Place
Amazon.com
The heartland rocker's first album of all-new material in more than five years finds John Mellencamp in full anthem mode. This is his State of the Union address, with guitars that chime like the Byrds heralding sentiments that recall the socially-conscious 1960s, yet sound all the more pertinent today. Balancing the desolate landscape of "Ghost Towns Along the Highway," the hell-on-earth of "Rural Route," and the tolls demanded on the title track's "Freedom's Road" are the embrace of brotherhood on "Someday," the Everyman populism of "The Americans," and the soaring transcendence of "My Aeroplane." Within the context of the album's song cycle, the "Our Country" centerpiece sounds richer and more powerful than it has as a truck commercial--like a roots-rocking sequel to Woody Guthrie's "This Land Is Your Land." Mellencamp enlists Joan Baez for a duet on the protest ballad "Jim Crow," while saving his most blistering political commentary for the unlisted bonus track, "Rodeo Clown." --Don McLeeseCustomer Reviews:
Love the songs.......2007-07-18
Mellencamp Is Back!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2007-07-17
Mellencamp's Return to Greatness!.......2007-07-03
Surprisingly good! Good show!.......2007-06-27
Best American Album..........2007-06-18
If you miss this one, there may not be another for years to come...
and that comes from one who not a big John Mellencamp fan.
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The Best That I Could Do 1978-1988
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ASIN: B000001EYI Release Date: 1997-11-18 |
Tracks:
- I Need A Lover
- Ain't Even Done With The Night
- Hurts So Good
- Jack And Diane
- Crumblin' Down
- Pink Houses
- Authority Song
- Lonely Ol' Night
- Small Town
- R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A.
- Paper In Fire
- Cherry Bomb
- Check It Out
- Without Expression
Amazon.com
The Best That I Could Do collects the singles that led John Mellencamp into the radio/jukebox pantheon he celebrated in "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A." and "Cherry Bomb." While albums such as American Fool, Uh Huh, and Scarecrow held Top 10 spots for months, their spinoff hits made this Hoosier disciple of Jagger, J.B., and Iggy into something like a Reagan-era John Fogerty: not only were "Pink Houses," "Paper in Fire," and "Crumblin' Down" wise (and wiseacre) dispatches from an America where it wasn't always morning, they could fill a dance floor and get you pounding the dashboard on the way home. --Rickey WrightCustomer Reviews:
John Mellencamp.......2007-03-27
I had forgotten how much I enjoyed his music..........2007-03-14
Good Collection of Hits.......2007-02-08
Great Collection of Songs.......2006-05-27
This is another one of those "best of" compilations. If you're new to John or just want to hear the hits (up until 1988), this is a good CD to get. If you'd like to hear what John is really about, I think you should get the individual albums. Although all the songs here are greats, it's almost too skimpy of a collection to fully appreciate John's great music. Still, it's good fun to have all the hits in one place for easy listening convenience, and I do recommend it.
Best Ever - All Classics.......2005-09-21
If you love John Cougar Mellencamp, this is a CD you must have.
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Scarecrow
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ASIN: B0009IW9D4 Release Date: 2005-05-24 |
Tracks:
- Rain On The Scarecrow
- Grandma's Theme
- Small Town
- Minutes To Memories
- Lonely Ol' Night
- The Face Of The Nation
- Justice And Independence '85
- Between A Laugh And A Tear
- Rumbleseat
- You've Got To Stand For Somethin'
- R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A. (A Salute To '60s Rock)
- The Kind Of Fella I Am
- Small Town
Customer Reviews:
One of His Best.......2007-07-03
A Classic.......2007-02-08
Defining Moment.......2007-01-03
All in all, this is my favorite release from John Mellencamp, even if parts of R.O.C.K in the USA sound like the Pretender's song Middle of the Road. Highly recommended!
R-0-C-K With Mellencamp! A Damn Good Collection!.......2006-09-02
Mellencamp is one of those rare, naturally gifted artists who works straight from the soul. His music is transported to those fortunate enough to hear it. His lyrics are raw, cutting edge, sharp and brilliant. He makes his listeners FEEL his raw emotions, experience the world as he knew it through his songs.
His musical vignettes, such as "Jack & Diane" will remain timeless classics; his stellar hit "Small Town" is a unifier that could be about any town under the sun.
The title song "Rain on the Scarecrow" is a musical account of farm living. In fact, it was Mellencamp, Willie Nelson, Neil Young and others who banded together for Farm Aid to help independent farmers. Mellencamp's cause has grown deep roots into the farmlands of each person's experience. So has his excellent music.
"Minutes to Memories" does indeed show a maturing Mellencamp; a man who is at home with and at peace with himself and his life. His music is the voice of life experience; it is also the voice of shared life experience. In short, Mellencamp's work is a form of cultural sharing.
Listeners will undoubtedly love this collection; no doubt you will be R-O-C-K-I-N' your heart out as you sing and dance along to this collection. Mellecamp's multitude of musical vocal styles will certainly keep you avidly listening and hoping for more.
Mellencamp R-O-C-K-S!
Scarecrow is an old favorite.......2006-04-23
Scarecrow is comprised of songs from middle America about middle America. John Mellencamp proudly sings of his small town roots in the song that is probably THE quintessential single from his storied career. Of course this disc carries another other big hit, "Lonely Ol' Night." Everybody knows those tunes, and they certainly represent the essence of Scarecrow, but the heart and soul of this album are found elsewhere, on the lesser known tracks. The poignant "Between a Laugh and a Tear," the spirited "Rumbleseat," the reflective "Minutes to Memories," and the stirring "Rain on the Scarecrow" are examples of how potent these songs are in their own right. Collectively, these songs convey powerful messages about home, family, country, society, and life in general. I love every track on this disc, even the homey reprieve, "Grandma's Theme," which is guaranteed to conjure up memories of your own grandmother (or maybe great grandmother) in her rocking chair.
I must cite one track on Scarecrow that happens to be among my very favorite songs of all time: "Justice and Independence '85" is a driving rocker with clever lyrics and distinctively pounding drums. I have rarely heard percussion with such passion. The drums back Mellencamp's intense vocals to elevate this song into the stratosphere.
After Scarecrow, I don't believe that Mellencamp was as commercially successful with his subsequent releases, but he definitely continued to write some great music. Scarecrow was the crowning point of Mellencamp's career; it was a wildly popular album back in the mid 80's, and the music and themes you'll find here are as relevant today as they were over twenty years ago.
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The Lonesome Jubilee
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ASIN: B0009IW9DE Release Date: 2005-05-24 |
Tracks:
- Paper In Fire
- Down And Out In Paradise
- Check It Out
- The Real Life
- Cherry Bomb
- We Are The People
- Empty Hands
- Hard Times For An Honest Man
- Hotdogs And Hamburgers
- Rooty Toot Toot
- Blues From The Front Porch
Customer Reviews:
Blue Collar Gold Americana.......2007-07-03
I wore out my first copy, so I bought another one. IF you think you don't like Mellencamp, but have never heard this one, give it a real listen. This one and Scarecrow might change your mind.
Driving.......2007-05-29
Really enjoying it
Back to basics.......2007-05-21
By far, it's his best and most mature work in his career.
Good Stuff.......2007-02-08
His Finest Hour.......2006-07-22
Average customer rating:
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A Very Special Christmas
The Pretenders , and John Cougar Mellencamp Manufacturer: A&M ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General
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ASIN: B000002GFJ Release Date: 1990-10-25 |
Tracks:
- Santa Claus Is Coming To Town - The Pointer Sisters
- Winter Wonderland - Eurythmics
- Do You Hear What I Hear? - Whitney Houston
- Merry Christmas Baby - Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band
- Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas -The Pretenders
- I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus - John Cougar Mellencamp
- Gabriel's Message - Sting
- Christmas In Hollis - Run-D.M.C.
- Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) - U2
- Santa Baby - Madonna
- The Little Drummer Boy - Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band
- Run Rudolph Run - Bryan Adams
- I Wish Everyday Could Be Like Christmas-Bon Jovi
- The Coventry Carol - Alison Moyet
- Silent Night - Stevie Nicks
Amazon.com
When was the last time you heard collard greens being sung about in a Christmas song? Probably never, unless you're a Run DMC fan, or were wise enough to hop on the Very Special Christmas tip. The rappers' contribution to this benefit collection is probably the highlight, although traditional songs covered by now-traditional artists like the Pretenders ("Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas") provide the majority of the material here. Eurythmics turn in a suitably chilly "Winter Wonderland," Stevie Nicks sings a beautifully haunting "Silent Night," and Whitney Houston proves again that she's every woman with "Do You Hear What I Hear"--that is, every woman with a voice strong enough to do the song justice. "Santa Baby," Madonna's contribution, isn't as sultry as it could be, but there's more fun thanks to hell-on-heels, the Pointer Sisters and Bon Jovi. --Steve GdulaCustomer Reviews:
Very special christmas.......2007-01-22
Rock'n Christmas.......2007-01-19
I luv it, I have heard these songs played on the radio and thought
"Where can i get a copy of these tracks!".
Well here they are, in 1 neat little package.
Merry Rockn Xmas Next Year!
Not worth buying.......2007-01-19
Worst online experience ever.......2007-01-18
I e-mailed several times (3)inquiring about my order and not once received an e-mail back. Worst online experience ever, this coming from someone who does the majority of their shopping and all their bill pay online.
Rocking Christmas.......2007-01-15
Average customer rating:
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Uh-Huh
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ASIN: B0007XBN1A Release Date: 2005-03-29 |
Tracks:
- Crumblin' Down
- Pink Houses
- Authority Song
- Warmer Place To Sleep
- Jackie O
- Play Guitar
- Serious Business
- Lovin' Mother Fo Ya
- Golden Gates
- Pink Houses (Acoustic Version)
Album Description
Originally released in 1983.Features newly remastered sound and upgraded packaging which includes lyrics and complete artwork.
Bonus track is the acoustic version of "Pink Houses" (first issued as the b-side of "Authority Song".
Customer Reviews:
Rockincamp!.......2007-05-07
A very good rock album.......2007-03-04
sweet.......2007-02-28
Star Making Album.......2007-02-08
A Damn Good Collection! .......2006-09-02
This is truly one of the best collections of the early 1980s and the standout collection of 1983. John Mellencamp is a damn good rocker and this collection will not disappoint!
Mellencamp catches his listeners' collective attention with "Crumblin' Down" and has established his rightful place in the ranks of [...] kickin' rockers.
His stellar classic "Pink Houses" is a wonderful unifer and the acoustics are nothing short of outstanding. It is a coast-to-coast and worldwide treat that will leave listeners pleading for more.
The "Authority Song" could be the story of my life. It is a damn good assertive piece that is demanding to be taken seriously. If ever there was a straight from the soul rock hit, this is the one.
"Play Guitar" is a damn good in your face rocking number. It's a poke in the macho eye with some damn good guitar playing and some hard, cutting edge lyrics. I love it!
You have from the heartland the rich rock from the heart of one of the best rockers that ever picked up a guitar. John Mellencamp is an elemental musical force - he is here to stay!
Be sure to get this along with "American Fool," "Scarecrow" and any of Mellencamp's other collections. You will be so glad that you did. Every song is worth it. Be prepared to dance.
Average customer rating:
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American Fool
John Mellencamp Manufacturer: Island / Mercury ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General
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ASIN: B0007XBMXY Release Date: 2005-03-29 |
Tracks:
- Hurts So Good
- Jack & Diane
- Hand To Hold On To
- Danger List
- Can You Take It
- Thundering Hearts
- China Girl
- Close Enough
- Weakest Moments
- American Fool (Bonus Track)
Album Description
Originally released in 1982.Features newly remastered sound and upgraded packaging which includes lyrics and complete artwork.
Bonus track is the previously unreleased "American Fool".
Customer Reviews:
little ditty 'bout jack and diane.......2007-07-19
Not Perfect but Pretty Damn Good.......2007-02-08
Being Brought Up...An American Fool!.......2006-08-22
ALTHOUGH "HURTS SO GOOD" IS AN UNDENIABLE CLASSIC..........2006-05-29
John Mellencamp's Breakthrough Album Just Got Better.......2005-08-13
Average customer rating:
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Scarecrow
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ASIN: B000001FCY Release Date: 1990-10-25 |
Tracks:
- Rain On The Scarecrow
- Grandma's Theme
- Small Town
- Minutes To Memories
- Lonely Ol' Night
- The Face Of The Nation
- Justice And Independence '85
- Between A Laugh And A Tear
- Rumbleseat
- You've Got To Stand For Somethin'
- R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A. (A Salute To 60's Rock)
- The Kind Of Fella I Am
Amazon.com essential recording
Though the comparison has often been applied to him unfairly, it's fair to say that Scarecrow is to John Cougar Mellencamp what Born in the U.S.A. is to Bruce Springsteen: a hugely popular hit that solidified both his fan base and his critical reputation. The one important difference is that U.S.A.'s message was largely misinterpreted (Ronald Reagan co-opted the title song in a manner that's tragically ironic), while Scarecrow's ode to Mellencamp's native Indiana comes through loud and clear. Shortly after the release of this album, Mellencamp got involved in the Farm Aid benefit-concert series, and his concern for that lifestyle is evident on songs like "Small Town," "Rain on the Scarecrow," and "Rumbleseat"; other songs ("Lonely Old Night," "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.") are straight from the heart(land). --Randy SilverCustomer Reviews:
Why didn't this Album Garner "Album of the Year" Consideration?.......2005-10-01
Perhaps "Uh Huh" got released during the peak of the synth pop revolution of the early 1980s. But as 1985 came around, the music landscape was starting to undergo some changes. Only a about a year before, Bruce Springsteen had released "Born in the USA". I look at "Born in the USA" as a landmark album for many reasons, but perhaps one of the most important reasons is that it began to shift the sound of the 80s music scene away from synth-pop to a more natural guitar-laden sound. By 1985, other artists were now beginning to find commercial success with that sound - such as John Fogerty ("Centerfield"). Artists such as Springsteen and Fogerty were mixing their own musical roots with social commentary. Mellencamp's "Scarecrow" fits into this mold perfectly - and came along at the right time where the music fans were willing to embrace this style. However, Mellencamp's "Scarecrow" goes beyond this embracing - it delivers a most solid sound.
Here is a track by track breakdown of this album:
"Rain on the Scarecrow": This is the title track and not only the best song on the album, but I feel the best of Mellencamp's career. The song's opening immediately creates a haunting song. This is a song that Mellencamp sings about the plight of the American Farmers facing foreclosures. Mellencamp sings this song with pure passion. He does a great job at playing the role of the banker who is handling the foreclosure - "John, it's just my job and I hope you understand". This song featured a very good video - and the added sounds of a farm auction that are in that video give the song a new dimension. Listening to this song, you can see why Mellencamp felt so passionately about "Farm Aid".
"Grandma's Song": This public domain song is sung by Mellencamp's Grandmother, Laura Mellencamp. Not a great song, but it is a great lead-in to "Small Town".
"Small Town": The title says it all. This song is about a - small town. Back in 1986, radio overplayed this song - however looking back at it now - very good song.
"Minutes to Memories": I'd put this underrated song in the upper echelon of Mellencamp's work. This song is a great mix of Mellencamp's Social Commentary with his Middle America music. This is a narrative sung by Mellencamp about an elderly man who has seen things change around him. On top of the great lyrics, there is some great music as well.
"Lonely Ol' Night": This was the first song released from this album. This song almost is in the theme of "Jack and Diane" as it has the feel of a young man growing up in Middle America. This is a great song and probably lured a lot of people to buy this album.
"The Face of a Nation": This is a clear social/political commentary. When Mellencamp sings "You see people starvin' under the tree", it is clear that Mellencamp is looking at society and questioning how these things can happen.
"Justice and Independence": This song has a great melody, but it is also a bit of an symbolic allegory. "Independence" is a man who marries "Justice" who is a woman - they have a son named "Nation". Listen to the words carefully as Mellencamp uses the family as a way to compare to the concepts of Justice, Independence, and Nation we are all familiar with. Masterful songwriting - also some terrific percussion and trumpet work.
"Between a Laugh and a Tear": This is another underrated song that I put in the upper echelon of Mellencamp's career. This title might not indicate social commentary - but it's loaded with references - such as "When paradise is no longer fit for you to live in, and your adolescent dreams are gone". This song is a duet with Ricki Lee Jones and it blew me away.
"Rumbleseat": Kind of a song that takes you back to the 1950s - it has a retro feel to it. It seems to be more of a personal song of Mellencamp's own experiences - great stuff.
"You Gotta Stand For Somethin": I thought this was the toughest to get into, but lyrically it's a solid track. It almost takes you on a historical journey of pop culture from 1950 onward.
"R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A": Great song, but was overplayed on the radio. This is a tribute to the early pioneers of Rock and Roll.
"The Kind of Fella I am": Another great song. This song is basically about a jealous man. It's a fun song and nice way to wrap things up.
The liner notes contain all of the lyrics, songwriting, and musician credits. I love how you get the recording dates and times of the songs. This song is clearly the defining album of Mellencamp's career. It also has the best music that he did. Truly one of the underrated albums of the 1980s - I highly recommend it.
One Of The Best Ever.......2005-05-03
John's greatest acheivment..........2005-04-18
I'v technically been a fan since 1988, when i was living in Exeter New Hampshire."Jack and Diane" was the first song i ever heard in my life, i was 4 years old at the time and that was what started it all for me.I'v always had JM albums laying around since then in some form or another and listened to them quiet often.American Fool, Uh-HUH and Scarecrow were the ones i listened to the most.Scarecrow is one of the finest rock records ever commited to wax,and i think this utterly destroys Springsteen's much more popular Born in the U.S.A. album released a year earlier.JM is just a superior songwriter and preformer when compared to The Boss,mainly because you can hear where John's music is coming from, as demonstrated beautifuly by Scarecrow. This Album was predominatly inspired by John's life growing up in the farm land of his native Indiana,which is the first time i'v really seen a theme be put through a collection of songs(album).I won't go over every song here as to not sound redundant but i will mention the highlights. "Rain on the Scarecrow" is one of the best JM songs ever written, real anger is put through the songs lyrics which are about the plight of hard-working farmers losing their farmland to the govenment(can any one say Megadeth's "Forcolsure of a Dream"?). "Small Town" is a classic rock radio staple and the most famous song off of this album. "Face of a Nation" has a real edgy,moody beat and is one of my favorites from here. "Justice and Independence 85" is an attack on the American justice system. "R.O.C.K in the U.S.A" is a classic rock n roll song and the most upbeat tune found here. I could go on like this for every song, but i won't. The truth is that this whole album will get you, it is one of the most emotional albums i have ever listened too.While i enjoy everthing John has done, Scarecrow is his finest hour and i can't imagine my music collection with out it.It is really a timeless record, unlike alot of garbage that is(was) released in an effort to acheive the commercial cash cow.With this being his fifth studio effort, it is intersting to take a look progresivly at how John developed and evolved from his self titled debut all the way up to this one.He has definatly matured and progressed on each of his albums since the inception but you can see it most here.Some of the lyrics tackeled issues that were happening in 85 and in someways are still relevent today. Overall, this album is nothing short of amazing in every aspect;the musicianship,songwriting,lyrics,heart,emotion, this album has it in spades.
Have some great memories from listening to this album.When you compare it to the corprate junk that was coming out at the time in music, you will realize it was one of the most sincere and heartfelt rock records to come out of the 80's.You just can't go wrong with this one, in my top 10 of desert island CDs.
It made me a John Mellencamp fan for life, and it might make you one as well.
John Cougar Mellencamp's Best Record.......2005-02-08
"Rain on the Scarecrow"- A great, pulsing, driving song, that is so different from anything else in Mellencamp's work. This song will make you angry, which is good.
"Small Town" - One of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time. The bridge ("No, I cannot forget, where it is that I come from; I cannot forget the people who love me.") just sends shivers down my spine. This is a guy who UNDERSTANDS what is real. Additionally, this is one of the most unconventionally written songs to ever be as popular as it was. There's not really a chorus, and there must be three different bridges. This is just a GREAT SONG, with absolutely no mistakes.
"Minutes to Memories" - Not the best written song on the record, but my favorite. This song just gets me every time I hear, "The old man told me this my son..I'm tellin' it to you." Once again, this guy understands what is real.
"Lonely Ol' Night" - This would have been even better if he'd saved it for Lonesome Jubilee. It really fits better on that record. Still an outstanding song.
"Rumbleseat" - Once again, the passage "I'm gonna stop putting myself down, I'm gonna turn my life around", just nails small town life on every level.
The rest of the record is great, but those songs are the ones that really stand out to me, and that I remember hearing on the radio twenty years ago. It's a crying shame that songs like these wouldn't even be played on the radio today, much less be the enormous hits they were in 1985. I remember "Small Town" being played so much that even I was a little tired of hearing it at the time. Now people would just laugh at it. SAD.
One of the all time great albums.......2004-12-21
Enough has been written about this album, suffice to say this is one of the most important albums to come out of the 80s, if not the last century. A real masterpeice of lyrics, style, melodies and great singing.
A MUST for your music collection!
IF YOU NEED SOME NEW MUSIC, JUST BUY IT IF YOU DON'T OWN IT YET!
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Human Wheels
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ASIN: B000A0EMHW Release Date: 2005-07-28 |
Tracks:
- When Jesus Left Birmingham
- Junior
- Human Wheels
- Beige To Beige
- Case 795 (The Family)
- Suzanne And The Jewels
- Sweet Evening Breeze
- What If I Came Knocking
- French Shoes
- To The River
- When Jesus Left Birmingham
Customer Reviews:
Mellencamp's Finest Original Album.......2007-02-08
Depressing, Miserable Mellencamp CD Makes It Hard To Tolerate Others' Imperfect Social Manners.......2005-09-09
Some serious fun from Indiana.......2005-08-13
Rolling On.......2005-07-28
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- Liar's Hell
- Liberate Tutemet Ex Infernis/Examination: Positi [EP]
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- Low End Theory
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- Magic Bullet Fan CD Series, Vol.2 [EP]
- Melodic Rock Anthems [Import]
- Menace & Prayer [Import]
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