Divine [Import]

Product Description
Dutch compilation for the Scottish pop/dance vocalist. Tracks include her #1 hit 'Morning Train (Nine To Five)' along with the additional chart hits, 'Modern Girl', 'You Could Have Been With Me', a cover of 'Wind Beneath My Wings', 'One Man Woman' and many more. Part of the 'Divine' series. 14 tracks. Standard jewel case. 2000 release.

Divine,Sheena Easton,EMI Int'l,Adult Contemporary,Dance-Pop,Pop,Pop/Rock,Popular Music,Rock,Rock/Pop,Soft Rock

Average customer rating: Greatest Hits-Experience the Divine Truly Devine by Ms. Devine Herself Experience the Divine Bette is the best A GOOD COMPILATION!

Bette Midler - Greatest Hits-Experience the Divine Bette Midler Manufacturer: Wea International ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Imports | Stores | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music Pop | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bette Midler Sings The Rosemary Clooney Songbook Sings the Peggy Lee Songbook The Divine Miss M Cool Yule Beaches: Original Soundtrack Recording ASIN: B000002IVS Release Date: 1993-06-22

Tracks:

1. Hello In There
2. Do You Want To Dance?
3. From A Distance
4. Chapel Of Love
5. Only In Miami
6. When A Man Loves A Woman
7. The Rose
8. Miss Otis Regrets
9. Shiver Me Timbers
10. Wind Beneath My Wings
11. Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy
12. One For My Baby (And One More For The Road)
13. Friends
14. In My Life

Amazon.com essential recording

From her early days in the bathhouses to her rise as the star of her own concert film, Bette Midler has always brought a campy playfulness to her performances. Experience the Divine focuses on her radio hits for the bulk of its resources, although the kicky "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" is here. Midler's voice easily adapts itself to the material she's performing: "When a Man Loves a Woman" is charged with a raw sensuality whereas "In My Life," is as tender as a lullaby. The recent standards are here, "From a Distance" and "Wind Beneath My Wings," along with her star-making turn, "The Rose." Whether she's handling Cole Porter ("Miss Otis Regrets") or the Beatles, Bette Midler's voice is dynamic and expressive, according to the needs of the song. This astute ability to interpret without always going for the kill makes her versions of her chosen material some of the best ever recorded. --Steve Gdula

Customer Reviews:

Greatest Hits-Experience the Divine.......2007-01-10

Midler is Divine, one of a handful of singers that can get you off the couch and singing like you think you have a voice. She gets you hopping in this CD and intertwines some of her greatest ballads with her most popular rock tunes. Its a sweet rollercoaster ride that you don't want to end.

Truly Devine by Ms. Devine Herself.......2006-08-29

This album of Bette Midler's Greatest Hits is just that, plain and simple. You cannot play it enough, as she is truly one of the most talented singers / actress / and gifted person on the face of the earth. Rarely do I feel the emotion of anyone's performance in voice that is as moving as from her. This album gives you just a taste of the range of talent this true star really has!

Experience the Divine.......2006-02-25

Although I bought the album particularly for 3 of my favorite Bette Midler songs, I was also treated to a few other good ones.

Bette is the best.......2006-02-25

Bette Midler is one of those singers that you really can't compare to anyone else. She is just so HER on whatever project she does and we just love HER!!

A GOOD COMPILATION!.......2006-01-25

A wonderful and unique artist and a true star; this collection shows off Bette Midler's talents. Personally I miss "Beast of
burden" from her "No Frills"-album. The song was quite a hit
in Europe. It's about time for a volume 2 of this lady's
greatest -she has recorded several great songs since this
compilation came out.

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: Bette's 1972 debut is simply.......DIVINE!!!! Simply Divine...Simply Miss M Seminal influence The title of this debut album is actually an understatement Well-Rounded Album

The Divine Miss M Bette Midler Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Icons | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bette Midler Bette Midler - Greatest Hits-Experience the Divine Cool Yule The Rose: The Original Soundtrack Recording Live at Last ASIN: B000002J5H Release Date: 1995-08-29

Tracks:

1. Do You Want To Dance?
2. Chapel Of Love
3. Superstar
4. Daytime Hustler
5. Am I Blue
6. Friends
7. Hello In There
8. Leader Of The Pack
9. Delta Dawn
10. Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy
11. Friends

Amazon.com essential recording

Was Bette Midler playing on the title of Dinah Washington's The Swingin' Miss D when she named her 1972 debut? Washington would've been proud of this album's tune stack, which makes a sensuous slow-jam classic of "Do You Want to Dance?" by Bobby Freeman, salutes the Andrews Sisters' "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," and produces signature pieces of John Prine's "Hello in There" and Buzzy Linhart's "Friends." Midler might not have set out to reinvent the wheel, but on her first try, she outdid Barbra Streisand in taste, wit, and yes, sophistication. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

Bette's 1972 debut is simply.......DIVINE!!!!.......2006-10-07

This album of Bette Midler, The Divine Miss M, was released in 1972 and is one of her best albums ever. The album starts off with the smooth and intimate "Do You Want To Dance?" (which is one of my favorite songs of hers). The way she sang this song was so funny towards the climax of it, with her very audible exhale, which she does a few times until she raises her voice at the end. Wow!!! She does an excellent job on Hello In There, and Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, which sounds almost like a 40s jazz arrangement, two versions of "Friends". The first version of this song starts off with the jumpy and uptempo piano beat, while the other version, which is the final song on the album, has more of a slower and different piano intro. I also love the front cover image of this album, a great illustration. When you look on the back of the CD booklet or the back cover on the LP, you can see a red tone picture of Bette, which looks almost exactly like the front cover drawing. Very neat!! I have this album on LP, tape and CD, and it is a great and truly "divine" album. For those of you who are big fans of Bette, make sure that this title is in your collection, and let Bette's "divine" voice enrich you! Kudos to Bette for her beautiful voice on this album!!

Simply Divine...Simply Miss M.......2004-07-09

Well kids, who knew the girl from Honolulu, the outsider, would record such a timeless collection of hits and standards. There is not one debut album that I can think of that is as incredible as Bette Midler's "The Divine Miss M." This is Bette at her best, singing torch songs such as "Am I Blue," or knocking your socks off with a rocker such as "Hustler," or just having some kitch-y fun with "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" and "Friends." In March of 1999, I had the great fortune of meeting Miss Midler and having her sign my vinyl copy of this timeless record. As we were talking, I commented about how this was her best album and she was flattered that someone so young (I was 13 at the time) could appreciate such a classic album. Buy this incredible piece of work by an incredible artist! You won't be sorry! And just remember...
"You can like me the way I am or you can...KISS MY BRASS!"-a quote from the Divine Miss M's latest and greatest concert tour!

Seminal influence.......2003-10-14

This is one of the absolute best first albums by a pop artist to date. I remember sneaking my older sister's "Divine Miss M" album out of her room when she wasn't around and playing it on our "stereophonic hi-fi." (We're talking back in 1972 after all.) Imagine a 12-year-old girl from the 'hood crooning along with Bette Midler's "Am I Blue" and totally getting it! When I listen to this CD now, I'm still amazed at how she renders all the covers on that album as hers and hers alone...every single note, every single riff...

To any and all Bette Midler newbies...get this album.

The title of this debut album is actually an understatement.......2003-10-02

I first remember Bette Midler as this high energy insane woman who would show up on "The Tonight Show" and having Johnny, Ed and Doc be her backup singers on "Teenager in Love." Years later she was Johnny Carson's final guest, and having seen her live in concert I am here to tell you he could not have made a better choice because nobody performs better than the Divine Miss M. The title of her 1972 debut album put that persona in the public's mind and it remains not only the first but the most definitive Bette Midler album because everything she has done can all be traced back to the eleven tracks collected here. Along with "Songs for the New Depression" and the soundtrack for "The Rose," "The Divine Miss M" is a 1970s Bette Midler album that you have to own in your music library.

The song that caught the public's attention was her second single, "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," the old WWII Andrews Sister's song that Bette took to #8 on the Billboard charts (which is actually better than the original did). Midler did all the singing voices and while her singing ability has always been greater than her voice, this is the song that establishes her ability to maximize what she has and sell it like few in the business ever have. With "Chapel of Love" and "Leader of the Pack" on the album as well, it was easy for Midler to carve out her niche as the queen of retro kitsch, but she goes for much more than that with this album. This is why the other key song is John Prine's "Hello in There," where Midler provides the poignancy that would be a key part of her most successful ballads. The other song that stands out for me is her cover of "Delta Dawn," not so much for the version she sings here, but because when I saw her perform life this was the song that ended the first act and it was the surprisingly most memorable moment of a magic evening.

Well-Rounded Album.......2003-08-04

This is Bette Midler's first and finest album. It's filled with standards, ballads, rock and pop songs. A great retro album that's retro itself!

Here the version of SUPERSTAR that inspired the Carpenters to record their slower and mellower version. Listen to the smooth DO YOU WANT TO DANCE? Sing along to BOOGIE WOOGIE BUGLE BOY and FRIENDS (2 different versions produced by 2 different people--one fo them being Barry Manilow!).

This is definitely a fun album that you will be listening for years!

Average customer rating: An Epic Journey! This is their masterpiece! Progressive metal you can not live with out Another Winner From Symphony X! "On the edge of paradise/Tears of woe fall, cold as ice"

Divine Wings of Tragedy Symphony X Manufacturer: Inside Out U.S. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Metal | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: V: The New Mythology Suite Twilight in Olympus Odyssey Damnation Game Paradise Lost ASIN: B00012BD0S Release Date: 2004-09-13

Tracks:

1. Of Sins and Shadows
2. Sea of Lies
3. Out of the Ashes
4. Accolade
5. Pharaoh
6. Eyes of Medusa
7. Witching Hour
8. Divine Wings of Tragedy: At the Four Corners of the Earth/In the ...
9. Candlelight Fantasia
10. Enhanced Element: Screensaver & Band Interview, Pt. 3

Customer Reviews:

An Epic Journey!.......2007-07-03

Thanks to s friend at my college for constantly bugging me to check out Symphony X, I have become a pretty big fan. I was able to get my hands on a copy of what many call their masterpiece "The Divine Wings Of Tragedy!" I'll be honest, this album in my opinion is one of the most epic pieces of art I have ever heard; and for me, ranks right behind "The Odyssey" as my favorite Symphony X album.

1. Of Sins And Shadows - This is just an amazing way to begin an album. Harmonizing vocals of heavy and rough, mixed with a higher tone make for a very melodic feel. The backing choir vocals also give it a very Bohemian feel (very Queen like). Awesome guitar work, tying the whole song together. Amazing! 5/5

2. Sea Of Lies - Keeping right with that feel, this track kicks in and pulls no punches. Again just awesome seemless instrumental work by the band fully harmonizing with the vocals. 5/5

3. Out Of The Ashes - I love this song. To me it seems to have a very deep meaning, but has an upbeat rocking way of making that message prominent. The backing vocals really add the element of having an "epic" feel to it, and again the guitar work is top notch. So far the band keeps the perfect score going! 5/5

4. The Accolade - This is the song that sold me on the album. After hearing part two on "The Odyssey" I knew I had to hear what they called part one. I was not disappointed in the least. Starting off slow and melodic, the song picks up steadily throughout. Awesome vocals and powerful lyrics, mixed with amazing instrumental work, make this song alone a classic! 5/5

5. Pharaoh - This is the first song on the album that took me more than one listen to really get into. A heavy tune to pick up where "The Accolade" leaves off. Heavy riffs and deep vocals make this song very prominent. May take a couple listens to like, but is a very cool song. 4.5/5

6. The Eyes Of Medusa - This track keeps right on pace with "Pharaoh." Heavy riffs mixed with very soft, yet very vibrant instrumentals. A lot of what the band does well is seen in this track. Like the previous track, it may take awhile to get into, but this song rocks. Very heavy and very dark! 5/5

7. The Witching Hour - This song is another very melodic output by the band. However, to me it seems just a bit rushed and cramped with a lot of material. Not a bad song at all, but a bit off kilter with the rest of the album. 4/5

8. The Divine Wings Of Tragedy - Ah, the epic of the album. A song in which the rest of the album was merely prepping you for. This song is a journey all its own! I love the beginning of the song esspecially, it is very different from any music you hear today. Very melodic and somewhat soothing! Than, enter the heavy power of Symphony X! Overall, a seven-part epic that will make you stand at attention and truly appreciate hat a masterpiece this album really is! 5/5

9. Candlelight Fantasia - I would call this a bonus track after the masterpiece beforehand. Again, the band shows no signs of slowing down in terms of having a lsting impact in their music! Love the melody and overall tone this song has, adding to an already steller album! 4.5/5

Overall, this album is a MUST HAVE for any and all fans of both Symphony X and/or Progressive Metal! In my opinion this album is one of those rare masterpieces that come along once every 10-12 years! Just pure brilliance!

This is their masterpiece!.......2007-01-10

Symphony X's finest moment is right here, one of those albums where you press play (or whatever your mp3 player uses as a play button) and let it flow. Even the 20-minute plus title track is excellent, and keeps you interested all the way. I'm a fan of power/prog metal, and I own the catalogues of bands like Dream Theater, Artension, Stratovarius, etc. This is my favorite of the bunch.

Best song: 2. Sea of Lies

Progressive metal you can not live with out.......2006-11-04

Symphony X - simply they rock, and this is a must have disc.

For any review to be honest you have to give the good with the bad, so lets get the bad out of the way first. The guitar tones get on my nerves after a while (borrowed straight from Diamond Dave). There is only so much my ear can take of that extremely heavy tone, it would be nice if it was mixed up a bit. Second - Like most bands they tend to take a rif or two, or an idea that has already been done before and make it theirs, For me not a big deal but worth mentioning in a review.

Now the good - Even with my previous comments I think they deserve a 5 and I believe this CD is a must have for anyone serious about their progressive metal collection.

The Vocals are that perfect blend of hard edge without that stupid (Grover) growl crap. This guy can actually sing. In my opinion he is one of the better metal singers - up there with the likes of Dio and the late Carl Albert (Vicious Rumors).

One of the things that makes this band so great is their compositions, with great use of each instrument, a good balance of going outside of the metal box with their use of symphonic instruments and even a hint or two of some modern Jazz. They are one of the better bands when it comes to mixing the Classical with the Metal (thus their name Symphony X).

This is one of those bands like Dream Theater where each of the musicians are top notch. Once this disc reaches your player it will stay there for a very long time.

Another Winner From Symphony X!.......2006-09-06

I have 4 Symphony X albums, and I believe I have found their best music. Divine Wings of Tragedy is surely one of my favorites of the 4 (Twilight in Olympus, The Odyssey, and V The New Mythology Suite being the other 3). Definitely worth all 5 stars. Symphony X makes lots of amazing music. I heartily recommend all 4 titles that I mentioned. They are all very full and rich, and will engage your brain. Very entertaining.

"On the edge of paradise/Tears of woe fall, cold as ice".......2006-07-25

Thus begins Part I of track 8, The Divine Wings of Tragedy, a 20 minute and 41 second extravaganza that on its own rates five stars. Part I is sang a cappella, with almost a barber shop quartet sound, and is followed by a power metal instrumental, the contrast working very well. Five additional parts complete the track, four of excellent vocals and another instrumental that covers more than six minutes. Normally that long of an instrumental would lose me, but there is so much variation here that the entire section holds my interest. This long track seems a harbinger of their greatest work, V: The New Mythology Suite (one of my top five). In fact, the words "Dies Irae" are printed in the insert at the end of the long instrumental, although I do not hear them voiced at any time. However, "day of wrath" (the translation of dies irae) is sang in the last stanza of the song preceding the long instrumental. As you probably know, these latin words are in the first and 11th song on V. Of Sins and Shadows and especially The Accolade are very good cuts also, but overall I cannot give the Divine Wings CD five stars. I can provide no technical reasons for this. It is simply a matter of after having listened to V, or The Odyssey, I am ready to listen to them again immediately. After listening to Divine Wings, the impression is that I want to listen to it again, but not until later. And basically that is how I decide all my four and five star choices. (Please see my profile for a brief discussion of my rating philosophy.)

Average customer rating: The vibrant spirit of the South, from blues to Cajun Great music Divine Music of The Ya-Ya Sisterhood looking for the name of a song T-Bone Burnett does it again

Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood Various Artists Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Evangeline Made: A Tribute to Cajun Music Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (Full Screen) Gods & Generals North Country - Music From The Motion Picture Little Altars Everywhere: A Novel ASIN: B0000658AS Release Date: 2002-05-28

Tracks:

1. Assi Dans La Fenetre De Ma Chambre - Blind Uncle Gaspard
2. Drug State - Jade Vincent
3. Found Love - Jimmy Reed
4. C'est Si Triste - Ann Savoy
5. Lulu Revenue Dans La Village - Ann Savoy
6. C'est Un Peche De Dire - Ann Savoy
7. My Mother's Son-In-Law - Macy Gray
8. Keeping Out Of Mischief Now - Taj Mahal
9. Little Rain - Jimmy Reed
10. Ain't That Lovin' You Baby? - Jimmy Reed
11. Dimming Of The Day - Richard & Linda Thompson
12. Selah - Lauryn Hill
13. Got Love If You Want It - Slim Harpo
14. Lonely Avenue - Ray Charles
15. Sitting At The Window Of My Room - Alison Krauss
16. Walk In Jerusalem - Mahalia Jackson
17. If Yesterday Could Only Be Tomorrow - Tony Bennett
18. Waiting For You - Bob Dylan
19. The World Exploded Into Love - Bob Schneider

Amazon.com

With the soundtrack to Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, O Brother, Where Art Thou? producer T Bone Burnett has compiled another gently nostalgic gem. Filled with covers of jazz standards, sparse blues picking, and traditional Cajun pieces, Sisterhood matches Brother in ambiance and impeccable musicianship. The highlights are numerous: Bob Dylan's lively song waltzes with a raspy narrative, Lauryn Hill uses acoustic plucking to complement her soulful croon, and Bob Schneider contributes an understated love-ballad rumbling with piano. Even the cover songs are first-rate; Macy Gray jive-jumps through a faithful Billie Holiday cover, and Tony Bennett slows things down with a dapper and distinguished Nat "King" Cole homage. Despite the diffuse genres covered, the superior quality of Sisterhood's songs renders these differences negligible, and the album's pacing ensures a pleasing alternation of styles that never lags. In fact, there's nary a bad song on the entire album. The divine secret's out--Sisterhood is an essential listen. --Annie Zaleski

Customer Reviews:

The vibrant spirit of the South, from blues to Cajun.......2005-12-03

The excellent soundtrack to "Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood" is a divine gumbo full of juicy bits of blues (Slim Harpo, Jimmy Reed, Ray Charles), gospel (Mahalia Jackson), lounge (Tony Bennett, Taj Mahal), back-porch Cajun fiddle (Ann Savoy, Blind Uncle Gaspard), bluegrass (Alison Krauss), R&B (Lauryn Hill, Macy Gray), even Bob Dylan makes an appearance. There were only two songs that I didn't care for: Drug State by Jade Vincent and Dimming of the Day by Richard and Linda Thompson. Produced by T Bone Burnett, the genius behind the massively successful O Brother Where Art Thou soundtrack, "Ya-Ya Sisterhood" does a great job capturing the diverse musical genres of the post-WWII South.

Great music.......2004-12-15

This is a Great CD for cruising in the car or even better cruising on the river . . The Pee Dee or the Waccamaw:)
Its a pretty good intro into Zydeco if you are unfamiliar with it. The modern pop stuff is pretty good too.

Divine Music of The Ya-Ya Sisterhood.......2003-10-05

The film is about how the wounds of the past affect the feelings and the behaviour of generations of some people and their families. The soundtrack plays an important role in it.

Who enjoyed the overwhelming presence of a quality cast in the film will not be disappointed with the soundtrack.

It is a soundtrack involved with feelings, exhaling different emotions in each track. Gorgeous performances of Lauryn Hill, Bob Schneider and Alison Krauss.

looking for the name of a song.......2003-08-31

Loved the movie, love the soundtrack, but I am looking for the name of the song near the end, where the band is playing for Vivi's birthday party. It is not in the soundtrack and is has a great sound to it. Does anyone know the name of that tune and the band playing it?

T-Bone Burnett does it again.......2003-08-14

Once more, after the incredible success of the OST for "O Brother, where art thou", the now-legendary producer comes back with the soundtrack to another very enjoyable movie. Although I could honestly live without the French-sung Ann Savoy tracks (which actually comprise the majority of the first half of the album), the rest of the songs really make a solid album. With classic tracks pulled from legends such as Jimmy Reed, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles and Taj Mahal, combined with some truly exquisite songs by recent acts such as Lauryn Hill (her song, I simply love!) and Macy Gray, the album comes out as a very solid "follow-up" (if such a thing is fair to say) to "O Brother...", yet considerably more eclectic. In the end, I give it only four stars only because the stream of six songs opening the album really turn me off. It takes a little "patience" to get through them into the best material of the album, in my opinion.

Average customer rating: One to own! milla is damn good in fact! WOW! Divine Tragedy is more like it. Something different

The Divine Comedy Milla Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: New Electronic Folk Music: The Peopletree Sessions Dummy .45 You Stupid Man The Million Dollar Hotel ASIN: B000002TNT Release Date: 1994-04-05

Tracks:

1. The Alien Song (For Those Who Listen)
2. Gentleman Who Fell
3. It's Your Life
4. Reaching From Nowhere
5. Charlie
6. Ruby Lane
7. Bang Your Head
8. Clock
9. Don't Fade Away
10. You Did It All Before
11. In A Glade

Amazon.com

You'd expect this to be a travesty. Milla Jovovich is a model and actress (The Fifth Element, He Got Game) who decided to put out an album of dark, lyrical art-rock in the manner of Dead Can Dance or This Mortal Coil. That's a demanding genre, littered with the bones and witchy jewelry of dozens of histrionic types who got the image thing right, but who never ironed out the "singing" and "songwriting" aspects of it all. Model? Actress? (Gong!) ... Next! Except The Divine Comedy is a stunningly good album, with folky-pastoral instrumentation, haunting, accomplished vocals, and tight songwriting. There are, it's true, session pros all over this CD--which tempers the awe a bit--but nonetheless, it's a real gem from an unlikely source. --Gavin McNett

Customer Reviews:

One to own!.......2007-05-30

In a time where almost anything can be called "music", here is a cd that definitly is much more than that! I bought this album in cassette form when it was recently released, and still hear it to this day. The tape itself got ruined recently, so I have bought the cd to replace it and keep on hearing it.
The music itself is a bit different to what most people are used to hearing - don`t know quite how to classify it... but everyone who listens to it loves it! She has a unique style and an incredibly beautiful voice. All songs are soulful and intricate... with lyrics to match! Let me put it this way, I can`t even pick a favorite song as all of them are amazing...!!!

milla is damn good in fact!.......2007-05-17

wow! bought this on a whim and the reviewers are right--she CAN sing! i'm not a big alt-rock fan and a few of the lyrics/music didn't stick with me but she's right on the money most the time!it's well worth a gamble if you can get it used!

WOW!.......2007-03-12

This is my absolute favorite CD. Even though it has been out for years (Milla wrote the songs when she about 16!), it doesn't feel dated... it has a timeless feel.
Milla has a terrific voice and the songs she created really bring out the richness of her voice. The songs balance between being folk, to ethereal to pop/rock. She has a strong melody in each song, and her lyrics are singable and solid.
This CD is a must have for any music lover's collection.

Divine Tragedy is more like it........2007-03-08

Hey, hang on just a sec....I love Milla Jovovich. I love her OK, but this CD that I ordered, bought and paid for because of the magnificent reviews on Amazon just flat out sucks. It sucks, sorry Milla but you know it does too.

I give MJ credit for her wide body of work and variety of talents, and on this disc she demonstrates that she can play several instruments, she writes the songs, and she performs them but not with much passion. I dont like this disc, and rather than let it collect dust I just threw the thing away. I didnt figure there was anybody I knew that would want it. Sorry. 2 Mooltipass to get me as far away from this sound as I can get.

Something different.......2007-02-24

Milla's good at everything she does. Besides being a beautiful model, actress, and other things. Now she is a singer. Her style is definately different. If you are a fan of hers you will certainly want to add this to your collection of DVD's.

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: track listing wrong Undercut I ain't your Aunt Jemima and, honey, you ain't my pimp! Divine-The best of It's Simply DIVINE !!

The Best of Divine: Native Love Divine Manufacturer: Hot Productions ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Disco | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Divine Live at the Hacienda/ Shoot your shot The Best of "O" Records, Vol. 1 The 12" Collection The Best of Bobby "O" The Best of "O" Records, Vol. 2 ASIN: B000001QJA Release Date: 1991-09-17

Tracks:

1. Shoot Your Shot
2. Jungle Jezebel
3. Native Love
4. Love Reaction
5. Shout It Out
6. T-Shirts and Tight Blue Jean
7. Psychedelic Shack
8. Shake It Up
9. Kick Your Butt
10. Alphabet Rap
11. You think You're A Man
12. Walk Like A Man
13. I'm So Beautiful
14. Hey You!

Customer Reviews:

track listing wrong.......2007-01-16

i love love love divine & was so excited to get this cd in the mail BUT to my dismay, the track listing in the description on this site is wrong. this cd DOES NOT have 'you think you're a man', 'i'm so beautiful' & 'jezabel', which is unfortunate & frustrating because these are the very tracks i bought the cd for.

Undercut.......2006-03-13

I used to dance to Bobby O at disco in my highschool time, so also liked Divine's songs produced by Bobby. Most of all, bobby-produced "Shake It Up" was often played by local DJs and impressive to me. But it is undercut from the long version in this collection, by about a minute, which is my quibble that led it to only 3 stars.

I ain't your Aunt Jemima and, honey, you ain't my pimp!.......2006-03-06

Divine, of course, was best known as John Waters' leading "lady" in several of his films. But he also had a career as a post-disco dance music diva. Sure, he couldn't sing worth a lick, but that's besides the point. He managed to be entertaining on his records by force of his personality. These songs were recorded in the 1980s, in the "hi-NRG" style that was popular in gay dance clubs at the time. They are fairly entertaining, with Divine spouting some ridiculous lyrics, but the musical backing tracks tend to sound pretty much the same. This is probably the best Divine CD available, if you're looking for one.

Divine-The best of.......2005-09-29

If you were a fan of Divine and him/her movies, you will like this CD, the best of Divine.

It's Simply DIVINE !!.......2005-05-23

Classic 80's dance traxx are what you will find here on "The Best Of Divine". The unforgettable hit, "NATIVE LOVE" really makes you shake your jungle thing. The classic, "SHOOT YOUR SHOT" has that Donna Summer rift that everyone & their brother has used. "LOVE REACTION" (the New Order ripoff). "I'M SO BEAUTIFUL (MY FAVORITE) is a classic dance trak with X-ELENT words that everyone should adhere to. "YOU THINK YOUR A MAN" has a good beat & you can dance to it (more HAIRSPRAY please). You will not be disappointed with the classic 80's NRG that DIVINE supplies on all of these traxx. Disco was never dead, it was just reborn & is still alive. These CLAS-SICK wax traxx are 4ever yours on this incrediable edible CD. Oh Mr. Eggman won't you please buy me "The Best Of Divine" ? Thanks Schroeder (DJ WACK "O")

Average customer rating: Divinely boring at times. A Relaxing And Uplifting Pop/Alternative Album A Greatly Missed Band! Despair shattered by hope :o)

Divine Discontent Sixpence None the Richer Manufacturer: Word Entertainment ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Christian Alternative | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Pop General | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Pop General | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Sixpence None The Richer This Beautiful Mess The Best of Sixpence None the Richer Blue on Blue The Fatherless And The Widow ASIN: B00006LHY1 Release Date: 2002-10-29

Tracks:

1. Breathe Your Name
2. Tonight
3. Down And Out Of Time
4. Don't Dream It's Over
5. Waiting On The Sun
6. Still Burning
7. Melody Of You
8. Paralyzed
9. I've Been Waiting
10. Eyes Wide Open
11. Dizzy
12. Tension Is A Passing Note
13. A Million Parachutes

Amazon.com

Pushing aside broken relationships in both their professional and personal lives in the last five years, members of Sixpence None the Richer are probably more relieved than anyone else to finally see the arrival of Divine Discontent. Yet true art seems to take its purest form when forged through turmoil, and this much-anticipated release is as pure as solid gold. The 12 tracks featured here are nothing short of a brilliant pop tapestry woven through Leigh Nash's airy and vibrant vocals and songwriter Matt Slocum's finely textured guitar work. While fans of "Kiss Me" will relate to the upbeat "Tonight" and "Breathe Your Name," no one should mistake the upbeat pop for shallowness. In fact, tracks like "Down and Out of Time," "Paralyzed," and "I've Been Waiting" display a rich lyrical depth centered on the human experience. Throughout Divine, Slocum showcases a prowess for offsetting Nash's lilting melodies against haunting, minor key choruses, creating a bittersweet melancholy that lingers well after each song. Perhaps the band does this no better than in the ending track, "A Million Parachutes," which captures that dull ache of longing for friends from afar. It's a feeling well known to those Sixpence fans who have waited five long years for this release. The wait was well worth it. --Michael Lyttle

Album Description

Five years after its breakthrough self-titled platinum album and gold smash hit 'Kiss Me' made it one of the most successful Christian crossover artist in rock history, Sixpence None The Richer is back. Includes the single 'Breathe Your Name'. Reprise. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

Divinely boring at times........2007-04-06

A CD that needed more Leigh Nash's imagination and spiritually. I reaally wanted to love this CD, but I could not. I liked the earlier recordings.
If you love SNIR, buy their greatest hits and praise God!

A Relaxing And Uplifting Pop/Alternative Album.......2006-12-14

I remember when Sixpence None The Richer first came out. In fact, the first single had a male vocalist (possibly Matt Slocum). I always enjoyed Leigh Nash's vocals. I remember seeing them on "Regis and Kelly" (maybe Kathi Lee was still there at that point, though I don't remember). Regis asked about where their name came from, and Slocum mentioned it was taken from C. S. Lewis' classic book "Mere Christianity" and recommended everybody read it.

Sixpence is a Christian band, but started crossing over in the late '90's with the single "Kiss Me." This project follows in the same vein. A high point is the excellent cover of Crowded House's "Don't Dream It's Over". I always wondered if this song had a Christian message, or if not directly, one that appeals to Christians, and Sixpence's recording reinforces my point.

Sometimes when a Christian artist crosses over, the songs become more secular, so the artist fits in with the lost. From this project, Sixpence has avoided this compromise. There are several songs that truly minister on this project.

Musically, this group fits into the alternative/pop vein. Over all, this is relaxing, without a lot of edge (even "Don't Dream It's Over" has a little less edge guitar wise than the original version by Crowded House). I found it soothing and uplifting.

Besides "Don't Dream It's Over", other good tracks include "Breathe Your Name", "Paralyzed", "I've Been Waiting", and "Eyes Wide Open."

A Greatly Missed Band!.......2006-11-04

Six Pence None the Richer's final album ( sadly, so it seems ) "Divine Discontent" was delayed a couple of years due to problems with their label before it was final released in 2002. It was the follow-up to their self-titled and much-acclaimed third album featuring the big hits "Kiss Me" and "There She Goes Again".

Though this album may be slightly more commercial and mainstream, the recipe is more or less the same; well-crafted songs, brilliant arrangements and production, and not least the moving vocals of Leigh Nash.

This album gave the band two more hits with "Don't Dream It's Over" written by Neil Finn and guitarist and songwriter Matt Slocum's own "Breathe Your Name".

Though the album does have any weak tracks other songs that deserve being brought forward are the beautiful rock ballad "I've Been Waiting" and the complex "Eyes Wide Open" - Paul McCartney or Emitt Rhodes inspiration?

The charming acoustic "Melody of You" also has a great deal of Paul McCartney feel to it.

The final track "Million Parachutes" is another rock ballad that leaves you back regretting that this great band decided to disband so soon - it seems they had much more to offer!

Despair shattered by hope.......2006-10-18

I just bought this CD and it hasn't left my player since. I'm at least 4 years too late in doing so-yes it is that good! I have 2 theories-if these songs were written pre-9/11/01, then, then Sixpence has the gift of prophecy. If post 9/11, they have the gift of reflecting America in mourning. This album is so of it's time. Confusion, remorse, shame and fear seem to grip these songs-occasionally the sun breaks through, and it is so beautiful. There is a song for artists on this album too, which I love. I have another theory that 6pence knew they would break up soon. I think they wanted to make this a masterpiece while they still could. And they did. Now, keep in mind that Leigh's voice is complex and not everyone will get it. Personally, I enjoy the fact that she will not bend to stylizations of her voice. It is what it is. She can't do it all. But combine the right song, and the brilliant acoustic guitar here with her, and you will be transformed somehow. What a great work this is. They will be remembered!

:o).......2005-10-24

Qué puedo decir? Sixpence es una banda magnífica!!
(What can I say? Sixpence is a great band!!)

Average customer rating: What They're Rockin' to in Arkham These Days! Horror/Geek Rock When the (Rock) Stars are Right Seamless Another triumph

The Shadow Out Of Tim The Darkest of the Hillside Thickets Manufacturer: Divine Industries Inc. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Spaceship Zero Cthulhu Strikes Back ASIN: B000RGU8O0 Release Date: 2007-06-21

Tracks:

1. Prologue: Theme To An Earthquake
2. Chapter I: A Marine Biologist
3. Chapter II : Blackout
4. Chapter III: No Way
5. Chapter IV: Strange
6. Chapter V : Return To Melanesia
7. Chapter VI: Cultists On Board
8. Chapter VII : A "Need To Know" Basis
9. Chapter VIII : Operation: Get The Hell Out Of Here
10. Chapter IX: Ride The Flying Polyp
11. Epilogue: Some Things Man Was Not Meant To Know
12. Footnote: Sleestak And Yeti
13. Footnote: Downtown (In The Cenozoic)
14. Appendix: Nyarlathotep

Product Description

When is an H.P. Lovecraft story not a book? When is an album by The Darkest of the Hillside Thickets, of course! Following their seven year tour of outer space in support of Spaceship Zero: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, The Thickets return to Earth and the waters off New Zealand in a very special operatic adaptation of Lovecraft s The Shadow Out of Time. In HPL s original tale set in 1913, Professor Peaslee of Massachusetts has his mental faculties swapped by an alien mind and learns terrible truths about life on Earth and beyond. The Vancouver, BC nerdcore band s The Shadow Out of Tim their third full-length album and fifth CD release features modern marine biologist Dr. Timothy Vess descent into madness brought on by similar circumstances. The Darkest of the Hillside Thickets, a cult mainstay since 1992, take you on a rock n roll tour through space and time, painting sonic pictures of the ocean deep, mysterious ruin-covered islands, and Paleocene jungles. Five out of five Cthulhu scholars agree The Darkest of the Hillside Thickets The Shadow Out of Tim is the perfect soundtrack to occult investigation!

Customer Reviews:

What They're Rockin' to in Arkham These Days!.......2007-07-15

For several years now, I've been avidly listening to the music of the Canadian band The Darkest of the Hillside Thickets, a group that creates fantastic metal-ish, punk-ish tongue-in-cheek musical homages to the works of author H.P. Lovecraft. After a break--or some would say "drought"--of nearly 7 years, the band has released another CD, this one inspired by Lovecraft's story "The Shadow Out of Time." The new musical work, entitled THE SHADOW OUT OF TIM--it's a play on words, as the "protagonist" of the musical narrative is named Timothy--brings the story into the 21st century as it follows the experiences of a modern-day marine biologist who has an unnerving encounter with one of the Old Ones.

THE SHADOW OUT OF TIM has quickly become one of my favorites by this unique band. The musical opus adds a few twists to Lovecraft's narrative, including the linking of the legendary Yeti and the Sleestaks of 1970s Saturday-morning fame--fellow geeks know what I'm talking about--into the story, and my current favorite song on the CD, "Nyarlathotep," even connects ancient Egypt to the Lovecraft mythos (with lyrics that are in an old Egyptian dialect!).

The music of The Darkest of the Hillside Thickets has been called Horror Rock, Horror Punk, and Geek Rock. Whatever the musical genre, it's music tailor made for fans of horror, SF, H.P. Lovecraft, and rock-and-roll. If you fall into one of these categorizations, or even if you just enjoy music that's not run-of-the-mill, you're sure to enjoy THE SHADOW OUT OF TIM.

Horror/Geek Rock.......2007-07-12

With lyrics ranging from Middle Egyptian (as in, sung in the language or something like it) to "He's got a bathyscaphe" to "Execute Operation: Get the Hell Out of Here!", Darkest of the Hillside thickets continue their punk/rock infused sf/horror styles. Even more of a concept album than their previous Spaceship Zero, this one explores many themes close to Lovecraft's heart: insanity, ships in the South-East seas, flying polyps, and insanity. Oh, and some guy goes crazy, so insanity.

The lyrics/themes aren't the only thing this album has going for it. The band's sound is more polished, and Toren Atkinson's vocals have an even better range. If you have been a fan before, I see no reason why you wouldn't even be a bigger fan, now. The "quirk" seems to be toned down a little, but it made the album stronger to me.

My favorite is almost definitely "Blackout", with "Operation: Get the Hell Out of Here" stuck in my head the most often.

When the (Rock) Stars are Right.......2007-06-29

The latest Eldritch goodness from the Thickets is thirteen songs of awesome. "Marine Biologist" was my favorite on the first listen, but it's really a toss-up between the rockin' "Blackout", the careening power chords of "No Way" (cowbell!) or the languid, catchy "Return to Melanesia". Ia! Can't leave out the song currently on repeat in my iTunes, the hard-charging "Cultists on Board".

If you like to RAWK! fly your Polyp down to the store and pick up a copy. And by store I mean Amazon, and by Polyp I mean mouse.

Seamless.......2007-06-23

Unlike Spaceship Zero (also a fantastic album and also for sale through Amazon), which plays outtakes of a cult sci-fi film throughout, The Shadow Out of Tim leaves no breathing room. Modeled after The Shadow Out of Time by HP Lovecraft, the album is similar in its storytelling concept to SSZ, but just rocks from "chapter" to "chapter", no pauses. Try reading along with the liner notes - the lyrics make you want to go find the original novel that inspired this CD.

Marine Biologist is the standout single, at least it is in my opinion, but not by much. Every track worms itself into the brain and multiplies - my advice is to put it in your car stereo and turn it up.

Another triumph.......2007-06-22

Seven years after Spaceship Zero, The Darkest of the Hillside Thickets deliver another Lovecraftian powerhouse. From the full throttle rock of Blackout, to the mellow groove of Return to Melanesia, to the sinister Egyptian underpinnings of Nyarlathotep, this is hands down the most musically diverse Thickets album to date, and yet it maintains a strong theme throughout. Definitely one of the landmark albums of 2007.

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2. Eight Gigs a Week [Import]
3. Eighties Obsession [Import]
4. Existence [EP]
5. Fabulous [Import]
6. Folktronic [Import]
7. For You [Import]
8. F.U.Z.Z.
9. Greatest R&R Love Songs [Import]
10. Helder

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