Rooms [Import]

1. Sweet Dreams for You

2. Crush

3. Scorch

4. Rooms

5. Greatest Secret

6. Glorious

7. Any John

8. Katie Stood on the Benches

9. Picture This

10. Maritime Waltz

Tracks:

Across The Great Divide - Emmylou Harris
Woman Of The Phoenix - Vince Bell
Tecumseh Valley - Arlo Guthrie
Three Flights Up
Boots Of Spanish Leather
Speed Of The Sound Of Loneliness - John Prine
From Clare To Here - Pete Cummins
Can't Help But Wonder Where I'm Bound
Do Re Mi - Guy Clark
This Old Town
Comin' Down In The Rain - Lee Satterfield
10 Degrees and Getting Colder
Morning Song For Sally
Night Rider's Lament
Are You Tired Of Me Darling
Turn Around
Wimoweh - Odetta

Amazon.com essential recording

During the '80s, Texas singer-songwriter Nanci Griffith graduated from modest folk celebrity to find herself signed to a major label and making thoughtful, better-heeled studio albums that were critical favorites but commercial anomalies in the country market where she was initially positioned. This 1993 project finds her returning to her roots, reunited with the producer behind his earlier folk triumphs, Jim Rooney. Taking its title from Truman Capote's first novel, Other Voices, Other Rooms is a gentle but whip-smart anthology of excellent songs from acknowledged masters (Bob Dylan, Tom Paxton, John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, Woody Guthrie, the Carter Family, the Weavers, Gordon Lightfoot) and lesser-known but hardly less-skilled writers including Kate Wolf, Frank Christian, and Vince Bell. Griffith's clear-eyed vocals and unswerving intelligence are well served by members of her own band, augmented by vocal cameos from a roomful of fellow folk veterans including Prine, Arlo Guthrie, the Indigo Girls, and John Gorka, among others. --Sam Sutherland

Customer Reviews:

An old favorite of mine........2007-05-12

I discovered this album in my Aunt's car on a camping trip. It has some really good songs on it. After acquiring my original copy of "Other Voices/Other Rooms," I eventually bought all of Nanci's other albums, but I still think that this is her best album. It's a great album to listen to when cooking in the kitchen, taking a nap, doing housework, riding in the car, or just about anytime.

I really love the songs on this album. "Night Rider's Lament," is one of my favorite songs to sing around the campfire when I go camping.

"Turn Around," was written by the late Malvina Reynolds. And before Nanci sang it, it used to be part of a Kodak ad on TV. I submitted Nanci's version of that song to my High School's "Senior Slide Show," and although they didn't like it, my Aunt used that very same version for her daughter's graduation slide show.

I actually saw Nanci in concert at the Kennedy center in 2001, 3 years after discovering her. It was worth the wait!

So go ahead and buy yourself a copy of this album. You will not be sorry.

folk ambrosia straight from the taproot - drink deep, my friend........2006-05-17

This music is soul balm. Every song here is searingly gorgeous. Each an American classic, simply yet elegantly delivered by one of the lushest female voices in the business. With just a touch of Texas twang.

I own Nanci's greatest hits album, as well. It's good, but I have to say that this album is better, since the songs here are just transcendant. I'm unfamiliar with her other albums, but based on these two, I can assure you I intend eventually to collect everything she's ever done.

I really encourage you to buy this album. If you like folk or country, you absolutely will not regret it.

An amazing album.......2005-04-29

Need I say more? I adore this CD - not only do you get Nanci Griffith at her best, you also get guesting with her - Emmylou Harris, the Indigo Girls, Arlo Guthrie, Odetta, John Prine and even Bob Dylan on harmonica on her brilliant version of the Dylan classic BOOTS OF SPANISH LEATHER! This is her first covers album and the better of the two I think, but only just! ACROSS THE GREAT DIVIDE, a Kate Wolf song, has some beautiful harmonies in the vocals. TECUMSEH VALLEY is another of the strongest tracks and is both a joy but heart-wrenching as well as you listen to the lyrics. If you read Nanci's book OTHER VOICES - A PERSONAL HISTORY OF FOLK MUSIC then you will appreciate these songs even more and maybe be inspired to check out the original versions. DO RE MI is a fun, uptempo track orignally done by Woody Guthrie. SPEED OF THE SOUND OF LONELINESS has been much covered and is another live favourite with a repetitive but infectious riff throughout. FROM CLARE TO HERE is a true classic - orginally done by Ralph McTell, which shows there's more than just the Streets of London for this guy - this one has some Celtic sounds thrown in for effect and works well. NIGHT RIDER'S LAMENT is an old cowboy song done well, but watch out for the yodelling! This is fun, however, done by one Don Edwards. The CD closes with WIMOWEH, a familiar tune which was massacred by Tight Fit in 1982 under the guise of The Lion Sleeps Tonight, itself a 1960s pop hit - WIMOWEH in its proper form, a protest song sung by waiters back in Africa in the 1940s so it would seem, is far better! This CD is recommended to anybody with a love for old folk music done by perhaps the finest female vocalist to ever come from Texas!

One of Nanci's best.......2005-04-14

I feel that this shines through as an exceptionally well crafted album - Nanci endeavours to highlight that she owes a lot to individuals who have paved the way for folk musicians such as herself. She includes songs by giants like Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan(she sings this particular song as it is the one that he requested she perform at his historic Madison Garden 30th anniversary concert), Townes Van Zandt, Tom Paxton and many more. But my favourite song on this album is one by a lesser known, but equally as qualified, singer-songwriter - Kate Wolf: "Across The Great Divide" pulls at the heart strings and is treated with tenderness by Nanci, as Wolf would have wanted.

As a 17 year old Nanci fan with nearly every album of hers, I feel that some reviewers are being slightly unreasonable in their criticism of this one and its sequel. I concede that her voice is not quite as strong as when she started out making records but with age has come depth, as is illustrated in her albums subsequent to this, which I advise you to have a listen to(particularly "Clock Without
Hands").

Listen to this album and I guarantee you you'll want to hear more, and her other albums are superb as well. She has a warmth that will reel you in and capture your interest. Her storytelling equals that of some of the individuals being covered on this record, which is something special. Once you've heard Nanci, their's no going back!

One of My Very Favorite Albums of All Time.......2004-12-29

If you want to get a great first exposure to folk music and to Nancy Griffith, it doesn't get much better than this.

Two Rooms: Celebrating the Songs of Elton John & Bernie Taupin

Average customer rating:

Good concept, marred by dated productions
This CD deserves a sequel, possibly a boxset
"Adult contemporary" collection that could use sequel...
Interesting but not perfect....
When it's good, it's very very good...

Two Rooms: Celebrating the Songs of Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Encomium: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin
Stone Free: A Tribute to Jimi Hendrix
Common Thread: The Songs of the Eagles
Working Class Hero: A Tribute to John Lennon
Honeymoon In Vegas: Music From The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

ASIN: B000001FXH
Release Date: 1991-10-22

Tracks:

Border Song - Eric Clapton
Rocket Man (I Think It's Going To Be A Long, Long Time) - Kate Bush
Come Down In Time - Sting
Saturday Night's Alright (For Fighting) - The Who
Crocodile Rock - Beach Boys
Daniel - Wilson Phillips
Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word - Joe Cocker
Levon - Jon Bon Jovi
The Bitch Is Back - Tina Turner
Philadelphia Freedom - Daryl Hall And John Oates
Your Song - Rod Stewart
Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me - Oleta Adams
Madman Across The Water - Bruce Hornsby
Sacrifice - Sinead O'Connor
Burn Down The Mission - Phil Collins
Tonight - George Michael

Product Description

Excellent condition, includes the original Cd, case, and paperwork, First Class shipped, ask me for more CDs, Artists, or Titles! :)

Customer Reviews:

Good concept, marred by dated productions.......2006-11-27

This CD was a good concept, but the early '90's production values, with the soprano sax solo (god help us) at the beginning of Joe Cocker's other wise notable version of "Sorry.." and the vocals shrouded in harsh, excessive reverb are the worst of the crimes. For the most part the new versions shed no new light on the songs, and in most cases screw them up with overly-synthed arrangements.

The few exceptions, though, are entirely worth the price of this CD, first and foremost being "Sacrifice" by Sinead O'Connor. The synth accompaniment is sensitive and well-guaged, and, despite the excessive reverb on the vocals, her performance is emotional without being oversung, and simply sublime. Also, Kate Bush's "Rocket Man" is charming and approprately ethereal in places, and Oleta Adams' piano-based performance on "Don't Let the Sun go Down on Me" is a welcome respite from the overly-electronic sounds on the rest of the album. If they could only remake this CD with modern production values, like using real acoustic instruments instead of synths and applying vocal reverb judiciously, that would be great.

This CD deserves a sequel, possibly a boxset.......2006-01-26

Congratulations,by stumbling on these CD reviews,you've manifested at least some level of inquisitivenss and or appreciation for other artists interpreting Elton and Bernies music. There's a reason,these two artists have built a serious classic body of work. Their music has reached the rare elevation of music defined as standards. This criteria used to be reserved for writers as Irving Berlin,Cole Porter, etc.
Music that tends to remain vibrant through the ages. Elton and Bernie's creations,given a 30+ year legacy, more then qualifies.
One ponders the music Lennon and McCartney would have created , if they had collaborated post Beatles. No one has to wonder about that with Elton and Bernie,its all out there. Their music creations continue to charm and reward the public as both these artists grow broader in life experiences. That said, what makes this CD a classic? It's the marvelous body of continually rewarding work interpreted by a wide range of legendary artists. Whoever selected this rooster has my eternal appreciation.
Sinead O'Conner gives " Sacrifice" a truly haunting and spiritual quality. It's simply one of the best recorded performances I've yet to hear from her. When listening to this track,please don't ignore the keyboard contributions of Paul Golding. This track alone is worth the price of admission. Same goes for Kate Bush's interpretation of " Rocket man". I'd love to hear her record an entire CD of Elton and Bernies tunes. Sting's version of " Come Down in Time " is breathtaking. Pay close attention to the piano contributions of Nancy Treadlight. This track wouldn't have achieved the same level without her artistry. Kudos to Hugh Padgham for the mix.
The Who and Beach boys turn in a yeoman's job with their choices. Neither group dissappoints. Wilson Phillips deserve special note. It's truly a discovery to hear their interpretion of "Daniel". Although considered a " light weight' pop group. They turn in a steller performance of Daniel. Their haromonies are magnificant and a female interpretion of the tune was long overdo. It makes the lyrics even more delicious. Honors for this track must be bestowed to another musical legend, Mr. Glen Ballard. Joe Cocker is the next artist to nail these body of work with his delivery of "Sorry..." One could almost believe the song was created exclusively for him. Of special note, is the sax work contributed by Deric Dyer. His licks are truly amazing and add to the tracks success.
Tina Turner delivers her version of "The Bitch is Back". She worked this tune to perfection through countless concert performances. Absolutely a classic and so interesting to hear a female interpretation. Rod Stewart delivers his version of "Your Song". Rod is a consumate artist. He makes everything seem easy and understated but its his huge talent that makes this perception deceiving. This tune is a perfect example. One listening with untrained ears might assume he phoned this in. However, it's just the opposite his artistry nails this tune in the manner it was intended. Thanks Rod! Bruce Hornsby's vocal interpretation, dare I say, exceeds Eltons. I know this statement is offensive to some but I stand by it. Just his keyboard work, delivered as an instrumental track, would have placed this track close to the top.
Oleta Adams simply kills "Don't let the sun go down'. Her lyrical/ musical interpretation makes this song a gem.
Finally, there's Phil Collins, Hall&Oats, George Michael and Bon Jovi tracks which I consider bonus tracks. They're really not needed but they don't detract either. Somewhat intertaining at best. My only wish is the a second CD ( box set ? ) with this concept is released sometime in the future. There's certainly enough E&B tunes out there ripe for the picking. I'd also suggest an instrumental project interpreting E&B tunes with leading jazz artists has a lot of potential. That's really the key to the greatness of this body of work. The lyrics could stand alone as published poetry and the music could also succeed strictly as instrumental versions. Putting the two together and including artists of this magnitude on this CD i absolutely inspiring.

"Adult contemporary" collection that could use sequel... .......2005-12-22

To me, it makes for pleasant listening by well known artists during the time of release. I like all of it, but my highlights are Kate Bush (who recorded "Candle In the Wind" on the CD single for "Rocket Man"), Joe Cocker, Tina Turner, Hall & Oates, Oleta Adams, Sinead O'Connor, Phil Collins, and George Michael (who would cover "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me" with Elton 2 years later). Due to the massive amount of material Elton and Bernie wrote (before and since) as well as different ways some of these songs could be reinterpreted, they should put out a second volume to it, esp. after hearing Tim McGraw doing "Tiny Dancer". A lot of the early songs have a lot of R&B and country elements that could take his songs into directions not on this collection, geared towards adult contemporary circa 1990.
The Who's performance is decent, and wound up on their box set.

Considering the "Face to Face" shows since, one has to wonder why Billy Joel wasn't asked at the time.

I think that his 90s-00s output has been great, esp. in the past few years. From "The One" to "Peachtree Road", you can picture other people doing some of these songs as well as revisiting some of the lesser known songs from the 70s and 80s.

Finally, Jeff Buckley had done "Curtains" from "Captain Fantastic" that has circulated in bootleg circles, but is amazing even if the recording quality isn't that great, but would be worth putting on a "Vol 2".

Interesting but not perfect...........2005-11-23

I stumbled upon this album again recently, it was bought for me as a birthday gift as I had long since lost the original.
I bought it on it's initial release in 1991 and on the whole I loved it. I tend to judge a great album on how many times I want to listen to it from beginning to end, This album doesn't get that kind of play. It tends to be one of those albums I listen to with the, "skip track" function on the remote control never far from my index finger! There are some fantastic tracks and the partnership of John and Taupin definitely deserves some celebration, it just seems it was not entirely pitched in the right way.
The tracks are stunning and there are some fantastic reworkings by highly individual artists. I think particularly of Kate Bush, The Who, Joe Cocker, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Oleta Adams, Sinead O'Connor and George Michael.
Equally there are some badly hashed songs by artists who are either uninspiring, out of place or just plain not good enough; to illustrate these points I think of Phil Collins, Jon Bon Jovi and Wilson Phillips respectively. Shame becuase had the producers had the courage to find just a few more well suited artists of a high calibre then I would be writing a 5 star review.
Having said that I am much more happy with this than not, it is a great celebratory peice and these days you could always just slap your favourites on your MP3 or iPod!
Worth a listen or two, even if only to get you exploring Elton's early career which is by far the better part of his years on the music scene.

When it's good, it's very very good..........2005-11-02

...so why include the Beach Boys? Took all the guts out of "Crocodile Rock" and turned it into a Beach Boys tune, for the love of God--I'm shocked that Elton and Bernie didn't denounce this travesty outright. Fortunately this is the one true stinker in this tribute album--"Border Song", "Saturday Night's Alright", "Sacrifice", all do justice to the tunes while showing the individual interpretations of Eric Clapton, The Who and Sinead O'Connor, while Oleta Adams and Joe Cocker come close to suprassing Elton's original versions of "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" and "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word." Kudos also to Jon Bon Jovi who made me look at "Levon" in a whole new light. As for that other somewhat questionable choice of artist, Wilson Phillips have nothing to hang their heads about--their cover of "Daniel" may not completely capture the bittersweet mood, but then, Elton's original vocal didn't quite do it for me, either--my own choice to cover this particular tune would've been Bette Midler.

Average customer rating:

Amazing Quality! Powerful Performances! PERFECTION!
see him live.
Todd Snider "LIVE" cd
Near Truths and hotel rooms live
Best out there

Near Truths and Hotel Rooms Live
Todd Snider
Manufacturer: Oh Boy
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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East Nashville Skyline
The Devil You Know
That Was Me: The Best of Todd Snider 1994-1998
Songs for the Daily Planet
Happy to Be Here

ASIN: B0000950X6
Release Date: 2003-05-13

Tracks:

Tension
D.B. Cooper
Lonely Girl
Beer Run
Statistician's Blues
Waco Moon
I Can't Complain
The Ballad Of The Devil's Backbone Tavern
Easy Money
Talking Seattle Grunge Rock Blues
Long Year
Side Show Blues
I Spoke As A Child
Doublewide Blues
Broke
Beer Run (Bob and Tom version)

Amazon.com

Todd Snider really knows how to work a room. As a storytelling troubadour for the slacker set, he takes inspiration from the likes of Jerry Jeff Walker (as he explains in one of this solo concert album's deadpan introductions) and Robert Earl Keen and applies it to a selection of shaggy-dog stories, talking blues, and slices-of-life gone askew. One of his earliest signature tunes, "Talking Seattle Grunge Rock Blues," has now outlived grunge by too long, but the more recent "Waco Moon," inspired by the death of guitartist Eddy Shaver, shows that Snider's songwriting is good for a whole lot more than laughs. Some of his most engaging songs such as "Beer Run" seem to have practically written themselves, while others such as "Tension" and "Statistician's Blues" sound like songs that were just waiting to be written. It's an integral part of Snider's engaging appeal that he makes it all seem so effortless. As with Keen, the challenge for Snider is balancing the easy laughs with his more serious progression as a songwriter. --Don McLeese

Album Description

Todd Snider has built a reputation as a great live performer who tours relentlessly. Near Truths and Hotel Rooms, his third release for Oh Boy Records (his sixth overall) is an all live collection of songs and stories that represents a typical evening with Snider, his guitar, and his imagination. Co-produced by Snider, this 23-song disc combines his witty songwriting with his engaging storytelling. Recorded in several different locations over eighteen months. It includes an alternate version of 'Beer Run' recorded on the air during one of Todd's many appearances on the syndicated morning radio program Bob & Tom. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

Amazing Quality! Powerful Performances! PERFECTION!.......2007-04-02

It wasn't until I decided to download free music by Todd Snider that I realized I needed to buy every album he has ever made. Little by little I discover a near missed opportunity - now found. Near Truths is the place to start a TS collection. When I first heard this I wondered where the heck have I been all these years? How did these few artists get overlooked during that time? I guess the ninties was my version of the sixties. This guy exemplifies what yesterday is today. The real "new breed" of America. Not many ever "get it" but this one does.
A real treat and
I predict soon to be huge
"the singer"
will be very well known and widely accepted.

cheers to Todd Snider for a well dressed future
your fifteen years of not working finally paid off!

Wait a minute!
this album plays almost as a greatest hits collection
it's very well done and nicely sequenced. A rarity for today.
Pick this one up first and I promise it will enhance your
buying power and mind control you into buying ALL the
Todd Snider releases.

You Have Been Warned!

Contains High Quality Singer Songwriter Backward Messages
Used To Trick You Into Thinking Long Enough To Buy More
Todd Snider Records.

see him live........2006-09-12

do yourself a favor, keep a watch out for when todd snider comes to your town. he is about as entertaining a performer as i've seen. great songs. great between song banter. this is an excellent souvenier from his live shows. i hope more live recordings will be available soon.

Todd Snider "LIVE" cd.......2005-08-17

Good music - love Todd! Check out his latest "East Nashville Skyline". Really good!!!!!!!!

Near Truths and hotel rooms live.......2005-08-03

This is classic Todd Snider. The stories alone are worth buying the CD. The songs are very good and tell some moving stories.

Best out there.......2005-05-17

Todd Snider is THE BEST singer-songwriter out there. He combination of sad, funny, and introspective songs puts him in a league by himself. Most hard core fans like myself are glad for a live album, but in the end, it makes you a fan of ALL his albums. The is a great overview of Todd, but in the end, all his albums are great.

He Has Left Us Alone But Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corners of Our Rooms

Average customer rating:

Found an Easter Egg
The world's a mess, and so are we.
my favorite ASMZ
Ecstatic
!!!

He Has Left Us Alone But Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corners of Our Rooms
A Silver Mt. Zion
Manufacturer: Constellation
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas To Heaven
f#a# (infinity symbol)
Slow Riot for New Zero Kanada
Finally We Are No One
Come on Die Young

ASIN: B00004RGC8
Release Date: 2000-04-03

Tracks:

Broken Chord Can Sing a Little
Sit in the Middle of Three Galloping Dogs
Stumble Then Rise on Some Awkward Morning
Movie (Never Made)
13 Angles Standing Guard 'Round the Side of Your Bed
Long March Rocket or Doomed Airliner
Blown-Out Joy from Heaven's Mercied Hole
For Wanda

Album Details

Band is Comprised of Members of Godspeed You Black Emperor.

Customer Reviews:

Found an Easter Egg.......2007-04-18

On first listening to "Long March Rocket or Doomed Airliner", the 5 second track, I heard nothing and was like, "what's this all about?" So I turned up the volume on my speakers to full blast and replayed the track. The first 2 seconds sound like one of the 'moaning angels' from the previous track, then quickly fades into the sound of an airplane... weird. But pretty cool stuff.

As for the CD itself, I find parts of it enjoyable to listen to and the instruments well arranged, but didn't find it nearly as compelling as other reviewers. Maybe I'm not in the right mood, but I got bored a few times after listening to the same musical notes five minutes at a stretch. Perhaps it'll grow on me over time and catch me off guard one day. :P

The world's a mess, and so are we........2006-09-22

This is 'ASMZ''s debut album -- a despairing, fatalistic perspective of the world and all that's contained within it.

Rarely -- so rarely -- is music this day in age put out with the ambition of creating an all-encompassing 'experience'; music for the sake of communication, rather than some sort of self-gratifying manner of egocentric show. Here, rather, 'ASMZ''s selves are transporting the message, but our selves are participating equally. It's not an 'act'. And so, the information transferred within the first twenty minutes is as such -- in the bowels of this strange, detached world we somehow came to exist in (He didn't plan on telling us how or why!), a distinct concept appears and continues to be a vague theme of the album: the contrast of the scared, confused, alone Human (conscious of it or not) unable to have a choice in the matter of being swallowed hole by this infinite, ever-changing beast called reality. The album is so assaulting in portraying this predatory force (evolving technology, mental illness, social alienation, starving countries... simply mass suffering on a global scale -- very flexible with interpretation), it ends up establishing a heavy, repeatedly deterministic way of looking at things. Though we are at heart Loving creatures, placed here by the very hands of God, the end is ultimately coming about before our very eyes -- whether we're consciously aware of it or not -- and we have little else to do but endure it 'till the end. At least, that's what I get from an album like this. Whether they're getting at the nature of suffering at large, or perhaps specific Human cause/effects and their relations to the 'chaos' of the post-modern world, I think it matters a great deal not, for ultimately the concluding emotional response turns out to be the same. Though, I do beckon, without the subtext focusing on the various ways we have been mutilated for the worse as a collective, thus really giving way to a more personal and immediate feeling towards those existing with us currently, it would not have quite the same impact. And, you know, I believe this sort of black and white approach, and its tendency to convey such an impenetrable, undefeatable force conquering helpless, alone, confused individuals within Humanity, without regard to any real sentient concerns, is probably the most romantic way in portraying the album's ultimate redemptive quality. For, at the very heart of nature, we have such a theme anyway; we come, we go, with no say of our own. But, personally, I prefer to interpret the entire work as an ode to all of us facing the hardships of a changing, bewildering life where things once known are now disappearing into oblivion. Ethics, morals, technology, identity, nature of family. Things that weigh on the mind to a hugely diminishing effect, displaying their prowess quicker and quicker with time... And how the hell are we supposed to manage all of it? It's depressingly heavy material, with things both novel and deep in implication, but instead of being allowed to think about it, we're told to drink Coors, go to McD's, watch football and F*@# each other like rabbits.

Now, for anyone who proposes the idea that 'ASMZ' is a band of nothing but false pretense -- I proudly present '13 Angels Standing Guard 'Round the Side of Your Bed', the boldest, most moving piece the band has ever written, bringing to light the fact that all three of the albums following this one have been phenomenal -- it's got only the starkest competition. So, I'm entirely, 100% honest when I say this, guys:

....never, ever in my life, have I heard a piece of written music that so divinely captures the entity of Love with such heartbreaking magnificence. While I do believe the foreshadowing cloud of darkness the album maintains 'till the track's entrance provides for an even more affecting crescendo effect than what '13 Angels' provides on its own, it is completely possible, and more than likely 'probable', that one who finds the rest of the disc unappealing may still find themselves breaking down emotionally as it dives into the soul. It is the greatest musical embodiment of pure compassion I've ever had the most grateful pleasure of listening to. Why it works the way it does, I won't even attempt to try and rationalize, because it is not a piece of analytical concern, but of the heart's yearning. When I listen to it, I for the time being view every Human being I share this strange reality with in the most empathetic light achievable, guided by none but the heart. If I don't cry while I listen to it, I feel like I want to. Keep in mind, too -- I'm no crier. In fact, I'm often a crass, obnoxious piece of flesh to the adorning public -- but there's that part of me, that child buried within, who's heart is broken in however many ways, and '13 Angels' brings him out for momentary catharsis. The track is a meditation piece of the most sincere form imaginable, and in my case, it produces an overall effect that, no matter how many times I let it nurture me for but seven minutes, becomes a 'part' of my entire being -- a representation of me and my heart; the emotionally fragile, struggling being that I am, and that you are, too. It is, love.

my favorite ASMZ.......2006-03-07

This is ASMZ's first album, and in my opinion their best. It is the most like GY!BE, epecially with the strings and background voices and samples; most like "lift your skinny fists..." to be more specific. What I like alot about this album is what made it hard to get into when i first heard it, and that is the reoccurence of similar melodies. The whole album is like one long song that revisits certain parts. Even though most of their albums seem to be concept type albums, this ones music really reflects it. The vocals are alittle rough in the beginning, but they grow on the listener. But all in all i like the emphasis on the strings the most, which is also one of my favorite aspects of Godspeed. Never a dull moment with Efrim.

Ecstatic.......2006-02-02

This album is phenomenal. Musically trimmed down compared to Godspeed You Black Emperor. Some of the most beautiful music I've heard, haunting and bereft of hubris. I don't mind the vocals but the only part I don't care for is near the beginning with some of the sound effects or recording noises at the beginning of the album.
All in all, I'd consider it one of the best albums I currently have and recommend it to those who can sit down and allow themselves to truly listen to the piece. A piece which should be enjoyed in its entirety.

!!!.......2006-01-29

Eight tracks of pure genius.

While it's a little spooky at times, and mystic in some ways, I love sleeping to this album. It's reallllly good to listen to when I'm in a contemplative mood or just thinking. It's both chaotic and melodic, which normally wouldn't sound nice but this sounds amazing.

This isn't my favorite ASMZ album (Born Into Trouble As The Spark is), but it's definitely high in the ranks.

If you're thinking about not getting this album, I'd definitely think again. It's... uplifting, almost, as long as you're not depressed. Don't listen to this if you're depressed.

Average customer rating:

Verytalented,creative, and witty performer
Gotta love Vinx - get all of his music you can.
ONE OF THE BEST CD'S IN MY COLLECTION.
funky, palm raising, jump 2 your feet, melt in you mouth
from Brandi in Philly, I can't get enough of him!

Rooms in My Fatha's House
Vinx
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music

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I Love My Job
The Storyteller
Through Colored Folks Eyes
The Mood I'm In
Jungle Funk

ASIN: B000000QG1
Release Date: 1991-02-01

Tracks:

Tell My Feet
I Should Have Told Her
My TV
While The City Sleeps
I'll Give My All To You
Captain's Song
Somehow Did You Know
Little Queen
Temporary Love
Porch Light
Don't Got to Be That Way
A Little Bit More

Customer Reviews:

Verytalented,creative, and witty performer.......1999-07-04

I have seen him 3x in person and am always amazed at his variety of styles. I met him with my son and Vinx let him join him onstage in Boston to play percussion. I wish he had more exposure-he's truly amazing. Every song on this CD is totally different from the others-please listen!

Gotta love Vinx - get all of his music you can........1999-05-06

Vinx live, there's nothing quite like it. With 8 people behind him or just his drum there is always some magic. Rooms, his first album, will always be a classic, but all you fans should search the internet (used cd websites, etc.) for his three other albums - "I love my job" "storyteller" "lips streached out" or the two he released with his band Jungle Funk. Finally, never miss a show expecting to "catch him the next time" - each Vinx performance is its own unique experience not to be missed.

ONE OF THE BEST CD'S IN MY COLLECTION........1999-03-27

When I first played this cd the His voice and the African speaking drums were truly great. if anything porchlight is probably my favorite but it is very hard to choose. I regularly play this to friends and hope they like it and possibly go out and get a copy. I would love to see him in concert. he did do a song on one of our tv channels, he had green hair and I dont think the british public were ready for him but they should have listened and they would of heard a great performer.

funky, palm raising, jump 2 your feet, melt in you mouth.......1999-03-19

A definate keeper. This album pushed you through a range of emotions and always leaves you wanting more.

from Brandi in Philly, I can't get enough of him!.......1999-03-17

vinx is proof that talent does sometimes goes unoticed. I was sure that when I first heard his music that he would be a major artist. To me he is! I can listen to his music over and over again and never get bored. I wish he would come back and put some more music out there I miss his beautiful voice and afro-latino beats. His lyrics are awesome and the music takes me away. I pass his music on wherever I go to let people know what they are missing. When vinx performed in Philly I missed him, thinking I would have many more opportunities to see him again, since I felt that he was the biggest thing that happened in music at that time. He was, but only true music lovers kept up with him. He is a musical genius and I hope to see him in concert!

Average customer rating:

Fantastic
Give it more than 1 Listen...
Give it more than 1 Listen...
Boring...
A special find.

Numero Deux
The Dining Rooms
Manufacturer: Guidance Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Tre
Subterranean Modern, Vol. 1
Experiments in Ambient Soul
Nuspirit Helsinki
The Magic Dragon

ASIN: B00005NQK3
Release Date: 2001-08-21

Tracks:

Pure & Easy
Invocation
Sei Tu
Numero Deux
False Start
Invocation II
Cosi Ti Amo
M. Dupont
Verso Il Sole
Maria
Catania City Blues
Chorus Of Flames
Speak Into The Microphone

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic.......2004-08-16

This album is probably one of my top 5 favorites in my collection. It may have some filler tracks. However, the entire cd maintains a cool flow with good beats, and as another reviewer stated, precision cuts. I have profound respect for The Dining Rooms, in that they create their own genre as they go along. "If one can become a master, yet look at everything with virgin eyes.. the power of all the world is available to them". The Dining Rooms do not allow norms and preconcieved ideas of what their 'type' of music *should* sound like, rather they push by with whatever their gifted senses feel is the best and most impressive sound.
If you like trip-hop or european lounge, you will probably love this CD. It is not for all occasions. After dark or in the car on a rainy day, this music would be appreciated best. Happy listening!

Give it more than 1 Listen..........2003-02-18

I have to admit, when I first picked this up I wasn't so impressed. And that was a while ago. I'd heard a few of their tracks on various compilations - and if you add in their label (Edizioni-Ishtar/Milano 2000/Schema), it was a no-brainer. So I popped it in, gave it a whirl and was left thinking: "Good. Not spectacular, but good."

The lesson I learned came with having it in a not so great stereo. After putting it on in the car, and then in the home system, wow! Spacey beats, Airy rythms, subtle voices, precision samples - very impressive collection of sound and landscapes on the tracks! "Invocation" is a song that just jams and glides.

The style isn't chill-out or cafe/bossa - it's more along the lines of DJ/soundtrack like with beats. Think Blue States (Nothing Changes Under the Sun) meets Fragmentorchestra meets "Modular Systems" with a splash of the new Massive Attack. You can feel the Italian soundtrack influence, but it never sways very far from the modern. It's a CD that you put in, sit back, and go about with whatever you were doing. Never too heavy or too dark, just right.

Notable tracks in my opinion were Invocation, Cosi Ti Amo, Verso Il Sole, Chorus of Flames and - the cd has the perfect ending with Speak Into the Microphone. A good dj sound, a terrific album! Can't wait for their new one titled "Tre" - due out some time this spring.

Give it more than 1 Listen..........2003-02-18

I have to admit, when I first picked this up I wasn't so impressed. And that was a while ago. I'd heard a few of their tracks on various compilations - and if you add in their label (Edizioni-Ishtar/Milano 2000), it was a no-brainer. So I popped it in, gave it a whirl and was left thinking: "Good. Not spectacular, but good."

Boring..........2002-11-11

This album had potential, but dumped it on the side of the road. There may be a few stand-out tracks, but they are few, which is a shame, because these fellows are really quite good. They just chose to not play anything interesting. If you're looking for a mellow, chill-out album to play every once-in-a-while, then this is perfect, but if you're looking for something you can frequently chill to, then move on.

A special find........2002-03-24

I first found out about The Dining Rooms when I bought the compilation Hi Fidelity Lounge Vol.3 ('Mr. Dupont' is the first track on the CD). Since I loved that compilation, and 'Mr. Dupont' is one of my favourites in there, I could not but buy TDR's CD 'Numero Deux' when I first saw it in a record store. To date, I 've listened to it many times and I always discover new things in every song. This is an excellent CD, full of ambient and jazzy tunes, which will create a very cinematic atmosphere. The terms 'lounge' and 'chill out' seem too narrow to be used in this case. This CD is a lot more. The two Italian brains behind this, Stefano Ghittoni and Cesare Malfatti, explore minimal forms of what it could be music for films from the late '60s and the early '70s. As a matter of fact, they say that the inspiration for the title of this CD came from director Jan-Luc Goddard. In my book, this is the proudful Italian answer to France's Air.

Average customer rating:

moody and progressive lyrical gem
Awesome awesome awesome
broke up
I love this CD!!! You will too!
FUNKY ROCK-N-ROLL

Rooms by the Hour
Rustic Overtones
Manufacturer: Ripchord
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Viva Nueva
Paranoid Social Club

ASIN: B000005WF2
Release Date: 1998-01-20

Tracks:

Feast Or Famine
Girl Germs
Check
The Letter
Hardest Way Possible
Kicking And Screaming
Pink Belly
Sugarcoat
The Heist
Machine Maker
History Crush
Shaker
Iron Boots
Outtro

Customer Reviews:

moody and progressive lyrical gem.......2007-02-22

What sets this band apart from other great bands of the Seacoast New Hampshire/Maine jam band renaissance of the mid `90s (Groovechild, Percy Hill, Kristin Mueller Trio) is the quality of the lyrics. Like these other great innovators, you can't really file them into a single bin in the record store (Ska? Grunge? Even jazz and hip-hop at times?). In between the hard-edged angst of their first widely available record (Long Division) and the major label deal that cast a slick gloss on their productions (Viva Nueva), this is the best of the bunch.

Beginning with the self-referential and internally rhyming "Feast or Famine" ("i had a chance but i missed though/can i write the hits though?/the kind they play on the radio stations/patience is a virtue if the agents haven't/heard you, preferred you"), this carries us through Dave Gutter's desperate romanticism ("If we whisper real softly they can't hear a word that we say/The feeling I get is everyone's passion is dead/and the dreams that we had were replaced by demons instead/they listened real close and they heard every word that we said/I tip the rim of my hat, I cross fingers behind my back that it's not all grim as that"). Some other songs are presumably less self-referential and more universal, though the subject material can be pretty heavy in Girl Germs ("thirty minutes sweet for a lifetime sour") and The Heist ("For once in my life can I do this one thing right?"). This moody and progressive album will soothe you and rile you up, even within the span of a single song.

Awesome awesome awesome.......2004-05-09

This is a really great album that I would recommend to anyone. If you are a lover of ska, funk, rock, whatever... these guys have got it. They really blend a wide range of instruments and great vocals into an awesome sound. I can't really classify which of their albums is my favorite because they're all really great, but if I had to it would most likely be this one! It really demonstrates the wide range of their talent, groove and is just plain fun. I've had the album for years and never get tired of it, and it is always a great pick me up. If you like this, I'd definitely reccommend Viva Nueva and Long Division. Great stuff.
It's a shame they broke up because they really had a good thing going, but keep listening and enjoying. The band may have gone but their music is still around. !!

broke up.......2003-07-25

unfortunetly the band has broken up. the lead singer and bass player have gone on to form Paranoid Social Club.

I love this CD!!! You will too!.......2001-05-10

Wow...about the only thing that beats listening to this CD is seeing Rustic Overtones in concert. 02/23/01 at the UMass Amherst Skybox was amazing. But this CD does everything but capture the live experience. With great guitars, killer horns and a crazy organ, Gutter, Spencer, Tony and the rest are always giving the latest pop bands a lesson or two in style and beat. IF YOU DON'T HAVE THIS CD, BUY IT NOW. You won't regret it. In fact, you'll thank yourself. ADD IT TO YOUR SHOPPING CART NOW!

FUNKY ROCK-N-ROLL.......2001-03-28

If you like old Red Hot Chili Peppers, James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, Mighty Mighty Bosstones,the Roots, Phish or just straight ahead rock and roll this album is for you. This band consists of a singer/guitarist, bass, drums, keys, and a three piece horn section (as of now they are only 2 since the 'bone player left last year). The sound is organic but always funky and usually loud. The lead singer Dave Gutter frequently channels the spirit of James Brown and Henry Rollins at the same time which creates a soulful intensity unmatched by any singer to ever stand in front of a microphone. Check this album out and pick up their next album when it hits stores in June, you won't be disapointed.

Average customer rating:

Pleasing and funky
Some of the tracks are good. Some not so good.
Best CD for Sex
The Dining Rooms - "Tre" - 2003
More

Tre
The Dining Rooms
Manufacturer: Guidance Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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Numero Deux
Subterranean Modern, Vol. 1
Experiments in Ambient Soul
Nuspirit Helsinki
The Magic Dragon

ASIN: B000094FG7
Release Date: 2003-05-20

Tracks:

Tunnel
La Citta Nuda
Fluxus
Flamenco Sketches
Dreamy Smiles
You
Cinemaroma 3
Fightin' 4 Rebirth
Prigionieri Del Deserto
Existentialism (Milano Dub Mix)
Astro Black
African Loungesters
Anima Per Amarti

Album Description

Third album for Italian act, following 'Subterranean Modern' & 'Numero Deux' & multiple appearances on the most important atmospheric-downtempo compilations. 13 tracks (plus two videos) drawing inspiration from jazz, Africanism, hip hop, house, & soul. Guests include Soul Patrol from Compost & Anna Clementi (the voice of G-Stone's Tosca project). Digipak. Guidance Recordings. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

Pleasing and funky.......2006-03-27

Look, the same person wrote all of the reviews above this one. Believe me - it's worth having, but don't scream and shout like it's the end of history. Pleasing and funky and maybe good for sex.

Some of the tracks are good. Some not so good........2004-04-29

The first track (tunnel) is overpowered with what sounds like a child playing the same short tune over and over on a toy piano. The second track (la citta nuda) is just barely more tolerable because the piano sound is not as prominent. The third track gets better and then the rest are better still.
The two advertised videos are either not there or at least not recognized by Windows Media player, Real One Player, and Quicktime.

Best CD for Sex.......2004-03-29

Honestly, this CD is very sensual and intoxicating. If you have wondered what music goes well with sex, try this. The music itself is very soft and flows well, and the occasional vocal does enough to spice up the sound. 5 stars no doubt

The Dining Rooms - "Tre" - 2003.......2004-01-19

To me "Tre" is beautiful and intriguing, from the first track through the last. Although I have listened to this album dozens of times there is still still something about it which continues to appeal to me. "Tre" has a timeless quality and the more I have listened to it the more I've grown to enjoy it. Stefano Ghittoni and Cesare Malfatti are without a doubt masters or their craft and have produced an album worth listening to time and time again.

More.......2003-09-03

The more I listen to this album, the more I like it.

Average customer rating:

I don't give "5"s out like candy, baby!
Al Stewart "Unplugged": Timeless and Terrific Acoustic Live Performances

Rhymes in Rooms
Al Stewart
Manufacturer: Collector's Choice
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

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Russians & Americans
Live Indian Summer
24 Carrots
Between the Wars
Last Days of the Century

ASIN: B000MR9EOE
Release Date: 2007-08-02

Tracks:

Flying Sorcery
Soho (Needless To Say)
Time Passages
Josephine Baker
On the Border
Nostradamus
Fields Of France
Medley: Clifton In the Rain/Small Fruit Song
Broadway Hotel
Leave It
Year Of the Cat
Warm California Night
Medley: London's Brilliant Parade/Caroline, Goodbye

Customer Reviews:

I don't give "5"s out like candy, baby!.......2007-07-13

"_Thats_ what I'm talkin' 'bout!" Use "An acoustic evening with Al Stewart" as a coaster. I am.

Flying Sorcery - Sticks to the original format/structure of the studio release, but with just 2 guitars. I hear it like this and think the studio release, with all the extra instruments, is less effective.
Soho - Chills. Sorry, but that is a good song, and it was too smooth and clamped (for you audiophiles out there) originally. It sounds liek the compressors were turned off for this album, and it was done "old school" like I do with live acts (only practical to try on non-percussion and bass elements).
Time Passages - Again, with just 2 guitars the song has so much more impact, and sounds a lot less glossy that it's "made for radio" counterpart.
Josephine Baker - What is an accordion doing in there?
On the Border - Superb. The recordings on the album are done accoustically very well. Al and the 2 guitars are all distinctly and equally mixed. This version also has Al giving a nod to Peter White at the end for his solo(s) in the piece, just liek on the previous live release of the song. Also, the song "gets to it" faster than the studio version
Nostradamus - The lyrics are a lot more legible. Imagine that! It seems to go by quickly, even though it is over 10 minutes.

etc...

You get the point!

Al Stewart "Unplugged": Timeless and Terrific Acoustic Live Performances.......2007-07-01

Only because the car I was driving at the time, had no compact disc player, I bought the original 1992 Mesa/Bluemoon release of "Rhymes in Rooms" in cassette format. After acquiring an auto which had an in dash compact disc player, and when I was upgrading my cassettes to compact discs, I was dismayed to no end that "Rhymes in Rooms" was out of print and that it was, as of 2003, fetching outrageously high "collectible" prices even for 'good' used copies. When I read earlier this year that Collectors' Choice Music (a subsidiary of Rhino Entertainment Company) was re-issuing essentially the entire Al Stewart catalogue, I eagerly purchased "Rhymes in Rooms". This is one of the finest live acoustic records I have ever heard. This re-issue contains all eleven songs on the original Mesa/Bluemoon release plus two interesting bonus tracks; a studio outtake, "Warm California Night" and a cover of Elvis Costello's 1994 song, "London's Brilliant Parade". "Rhymes in Rooms" contains inspired and sprightly live performances gathered from a tour that featured Al Stewart teamed up with jazz guitarist Peter White. No stranger to these tunes, White has collaborated with Stewart on both song writing and he has played guitar on many of Al's records dating back to Stewart's 1976 break out hit, "Year of the Cat". Together Pete and Al make musical magic on many of Stewart's best known songs, as their guitars weave in and out of the hauntingly melodic "On the Border", "Soho (Needless to Say)", and "Broadway Hotel". They achieve hypnotic transcendence on the epic "Nostradamus", a ten minute tour de force that captures the mystical essence of Stewart's ode to the medieval prognosticator.

Nicely balanced between hits and concert favorites, "Rhymes in Rooms" is how an "unplugged" album should sound like; an artist's songs that,
stripped of their studio production and ornamentation, are left to reveal their rich melodies and great lyrics (the re-working of "Year of the Cat" is stunningly beautiful). The liner notes on the making of "Rhymes in Rooms" are well written and add context to these excellent live recordings. In short, this is essential Al Stewart, a true high point in his recording career.

Average customer rating:

Ink
The Dining Rooms
Manufacturer: Schema Italia
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Retro Nuevo
Versioni Particolari, Vol. 2
Handful of Soul

ASIN: B000OIOHXO
Release Date: 2007-05-14

Tracks:

Free to Grow
Ceremony
Thank You?
Fatale
Ink
Appuntamento a Trieste
Etage Noir 1
Etage Noir 2
Cobra Coral
On the Beach
Hear Us Now
Hear Us Now /Thank You?

Album Description

Another great achievement from this groovy Italian group -- an album that's head and shoulders above anything they were doing just a few short years ago! The Dining Rooms deepen their sound more and more with each new record -- hitting a range of tones and colors that take them far beyond their initially simple rhythms, and into a space that's filled with thoughtful lyrics and sensitively-penned tunes! Most of the tracks here hit a groove that's somewhere between mid and downtempo -- about half of which feature vocals by guests who include Toco, Dodo Nkishi, Sean Martin, Renaud Chaure, and George Anne Kalweit. There's a fair bit of Fender Rhodes sliding through the tunes, and some warm acoustic basslines as well -- really grounding the music in a classic sort of style, even though the overall execution is fairly contemporary. Schema. 2007.

Album Details

2007 Issue of the Fifth Album by the Funky, Cinematic Oriented Band. The Tracks Include Five Instrumentals and Six Songs with Different Atmospheric Sounds Mixing Funk, Blues, Jazz, and Noir Moods. Some Songs Are Sung in Different Languages Ie: Portuguese, French and English. The Enhanced CD also Includes Two Promotional Videos for "Hear Us Now" and "Thank You?".

Rock Music:

Rock Music