American Pop

american pop

Track Listings

1. Truly A Star
2. Dream All Day
3. Lonely
4. Billy Bob Baker
5. Runaway
6. I Beg Forgiveness
7. She Comes On
8. You're My Enema
9. Confused
10. Don't Say

American Pop,The Phuzz,Beach Records,Alternative Pop/Rock,Indie Rock,Pop,Rock,Rock/Pop
My December
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Love Her
  • Miss Independent, Miss Self-Sufficient, Miss Keep Your Distance
  • Never Again
  • Flawed, but real - and important
  • Waste of money
My December
Kelly Clarkson
Manufacturer: RCA Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Lost Highway
  2. It Won't Be Soon Before Long
  3. Wild Hope
  4. Daughtry
  5. The Best Damn Thing [CLEAN]

ASIN: B000QFAJ7S
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Tracks:

  1. Never Again
  2. One Minute
  3. Hole
  4. Sober
  5. Don't Waste Your Time
  6. Judas
  7. Haunted
  8. Be Still
  9. Maybe
  10. How I Feel
  11. Yeah
  12. Can I Have A Kiss
  13. Irvine

Amazon.com

Judging by the themes of anger and betrayal that dominate Kelly Clarkson's third disc, My December, perhaps 'Jagged Little Idol' would have been a more telling title. According to interviews, the massively successful artist wanted more creative control with her music going forward; as a result, unlike her previous CDs, Clarkson contributes as a songwriter on every track. The final product is not nearly as catchy as Breakaway, but is far more introspective and honest. My December's overall sound brings a harder musical style than fans might expect, with acerbic lyrics to match; the disc's first single "Never Again"--a dark rock song slamming her ex-boyfriend--is certainly a tip-off. The compelling chorus of "Hole" finds Clarkson singing "There's a hole/inside of me/it's so damn cold/slowly killing me" over a melody that is far more Tool than top-40. "Haunted" and "Judas" are wrought-over tracks that veer into Evanescence territory, while the wonderfully sparse "Maybe" is a highlight within which Clarkson's pleading voice is perfectly showcased. My December's final listed track, "Irvine" (prior to the hidden bluesy acoustic ballad "Chivas") sounds far more Cat Power-meets-Corinne Bailey Rae than Clarkson, but it is certainly one of the most captivating songs on the disc, and serves as yet another reminder of just how versatile her voice is. Fans of her previous radio-friendly releases may well be divided on her new direction, but it appears to be the path Clarkson is likely to continue to travel. --Denise Sheppard

More from Kelly Clarkson


Breakaway


Thankful


Since U Been Gone

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Love Her.......2007-07-19

I love this CD - I loved Never Again the first time I heard it on American idol, but it took me a few times through to like the CD in total, but if you listen, it tells a story of her pain and healing. My boyfriend thinks she is just male bashing, but I don't agree at all. It is like her singing is her therapy. Anyhow, I love it. Her singing moves me because it is coming from her heart and you can tell!

5 out of 5 stars Miss Independent, Miss Self-Sufficient, Miss Keep Your Distance.......2007-07-19

For some reason, Kelly Clarkson's great album "My December" has taken some observers by surprise. But have some already forgotten that her first single from "Thankful" was called MISS INDEPENDENT? Apparently so. But for those with short-term memory, let me remind you:

"Miss independent / Miss Self-sufficient / Miss keep your distance / Miss unafraid / Miss out of my way / Miss don't let a man interfere / Miss on her own / Miss almost grown / Miss never let a man help her off her throne"

This song was originally a Christina Aguilera throwaway, but in retrospect we can see that it fits Clarkson like a glove. In fact, we all should have seem "My December" coming from a mile away. Kelly Clarkson refused to let her vision be put on a shelf in a backroom somewhere and that should come as no surprise. Not only is "My December" her BEST album to date, but it's also her most self-assured and confident. The puppet masters have been left in the dust and what we're left with is nothing short of fabulous. It's honest, organic, and doesn't sound like it came out of the latest Idol convention. Thank goodness.

"Breakaway" was an excellent album for Kelly Clarkson, but "My December" is far superior in every sense. The music is more sophisticated, the lyrics are more personal, and finally I can actually relate to this one so much more. With respect to this album being less catchy, I would disagree. I think "My December" has far more energy than its predecessor. Songs like "One Minute," "How I Feel," "Don't Waste Your Time," "Maybe," "Can I have A Kiss," "Yeah," "Never Again" are easy to get along with. This album is more heavy-handed, but it's peppier. My favorite song on the album is "Hole" and it's her most Rock track that she's recorded. But it's sensational. Overall, Kelly's new album is a more mature version of "Breakaway" but not a huge departure.

If you liked "Breakaway" then I would give "My December" a chance. You don't want to miss out on her best record thus far.

4 out of 5 stars Never Again.......2007-07-19

I don't own the album, but if Never Again is a preview of what is to become of Kelly Clarkson and her music, I say go girl -- it's a bit edgier than her other music. The song kind of reminds me of something along the lines of Pat Benatar -- and we all loved Pat Benatar!

You go Kelly!

4 out of 5 stars Flawed, but real - and important.......2007-07-19

When I saw Clive Davis talk about Art as the selling of millions of units of product on the final American Idol show (6th season), I found him crass, vulgar and offensive, but I didn't actually realize that he was implicitly snubbing Kelly Clarkson. In retrospect, it's evident to us all. And in response to that kind of struggle - artist vs mogul - I'm far from alone, I suspect, in finding myself coming down strongly on the side of the artist. I may not have bought this album otherwise -maybe I'd have had my daughter burn me a few songs from it - but I sure bought it under these circumstances.

That having been said, there is something missing on My December - seasoned songwriting. There are few hooks and none to match something of the caliber of Breakaway. The melodies are a bit repetitious and don't have that crafted grace that the best pop has - even edgy stuff of this character. Nevertheless, My December has an abundance of sincerity, honesty and integrity. It was obviously an important part of Kelly Clarkson's artistic journey and it needed to be made. Some of the tracks are achingly sweet, though always wistful, poignant or downright depressing. Sober and Irvine are standouts. Her incredible voice does occasionally veer toward being shrill but more often delivers raw emotional power and authority. She clearly felt this music deeply and so does this listener. I'm surprised that Mr. Davis, in all his years of so-called experience, hasn't yet learned that allowing the artist to be true to her vision will ultimately serve her growth, maturity, and yes, Clive, ultimately even her earning potential. Kelly Clarkson is only 25; There's a lot more to the story yet to be written.

1 out of 5 stars Waste of money.......2007-07-18

I have a great deal of respect for Kelly Clarkson her voice is amazing. However, this cd is Kelly at her worst. I found it interesting that many comments state that Kelly has matured on this cd this could not be farther from the truth. The lyrics are at times whinney, bitter, and down right nasty. Aspects which do not automatically prove maturity. Do not buy this cd it is a waste of money!!! I'm sorry I did.
Daughtry
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • WHAT WAS AMERICA THINKING??? ... not voting him as AMERICAN IDOL!!!
  • A must have
  • chris daughtry
  • Great
  • Surprisingly Good
Daughtry
Daughtry
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Taylor Hicks
  2. Elliott Yamin
  3. Some Hearts
  4. My December
  5. It Won't Be Soon Before Long

ASIN: B000IY04RC
Release Date: 2006-11-21

Tracks:

  1. It's Not Over
  2. Used To
  3. Home
  4. Over You
  5. Crashed
  6. Feels Like Tonight
  7. What I Want (featuring Slash)
  8. Breakdown
  9. Gone
  10. There And Back Again
  11. All These Lives
  12. What About Now

Amazon.com

Chris Daughtry starts his first post-American Idol disc with a song whose title reviewers coast to coast will be grateful for: "It's Not Over." What an understatement. For the Idol-watching rock fan's money, nobody--not even Southern-fried heartthrob Bo Bice in season four--stormed the stage with more raw talent. That it translates so well to a solo disc (Daughtry was recorded with studio musicians; future discs will include a Daughtry-assembled band) proves all he needed was a little prodding, the kind the tube has gotten so good at. Here are a dozen songs that'll flick your rock & roll switch, whether you're a Creed fan, a club kid, or a mambo king: "Used To" and "Over You," a couple of early tracks, ought to arrive bundled with a road map they're so highway sing-along-ready, and "Feels Like Tonight" screws the lid on the premise that Daughtry can deliver a punchy pop-rock song without flinching. Elsewhere, the North Carolina family man lets his inner (and outer, actually) goatee- and eyeliner-type guy rip: his built-for-the-hard-stuff voice bites down appealingly on "Breakdown," a dark serenade to mental health, and also on "What I Want," an '80s-style fist-pumper featuring Slash. The loud mad dash of those songs leads to a midtempo wind-down ("All These Lives," "What About Now"), but as a mix, it works. Daughtry is a man of many moods--contemplative, explosive, insistent, humble. No matter which pokes through on a given song, he steadies it to a place as honest as it is accessible. Rare is the rocker who lays out so broad an on-ramp. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars WHAT WAS AMERICA THINKING??? ... not voting him as AMERICAN IDOL!!!.......2007-07-19

This GUY ROCKS!!! Chris is a hero... the kind of guy who "lost the battle (American Idol) but won the war" (#1 hits on first CD!). I bought is disc originally because of how inspired I was to see his dream come true even without the help of American Idol... on his own! (to a point...) Anyhow, I love his voice and personality on his Blog... hope his next cd is a little harder rock. but he is a mix of Creed, Nickelback, Default, Lifehouse and PURE ROCKERS combined together!

5 out of 5 stars A must have.......2007-07-18

This CD is a must have for any American Idol or rock music fan. You're bound to find a song you love here.

5 out of 5 stars chris daughtry.......2007-07-17

this is a fab cd chris has a brilliant voice, this is the second time i have ordered from amazon and on both occassions i have been very happy with the service they provide

5 out of 5 stars Great.......2007-07-17

Daughtry has a raw sound to his voice that seems to get to us all. His music is fresh and the sound is great. I loved him on idol and think he should have won.

4 out of 5 stars Surprisingly Good.......2007-07-16

First off, let me say it...I hate American Idol. I mean absolutely hate it. To me, it is proof that talent and success are indeed mutually exclusive to each other. With that out of the way, let's get to the review. I had heard Chris Daughtry' s name through all of the incessant coverage that "Idol" inexplicably gets, and heard that he had covered songs by Creed and Fuel and a had a sound similar to Nickelback. I found this to be a good thing, which I suppose betrays my total lack of musical taste or knowledge. I mean, he was obviously emulating a bunch of no-talent hacks who couldn't give their CD's away, as opposed to these "smart" reviewers whose name EVERYBODY knows. Word of mouth prompted me to download "It's Not Over" and give it a try. Believe it or not, I liked it and decided to purchase the CD. Much to my surprise, I liked it, I really really liked it! Not every single song is memorable, and some of them do tend to sound a bit "same-y", but you can get that with any artist. This disc does have many shining moments, and when they shine, brother they SHINE. Daughtry manages to hold the listener's attention across a variety of styles, which broadens his appeal. Softer, strummed ballads? Got 'em. Wanna rock out? Got those too. All in all. a solid debut.
Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast)
  • Jersey Boys
  • Like being there
  • A step back in musical time
  • Great music, but missing too much
Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast)
Ronald Melrose , Ken Dow , Anik Oulianine , Stephanie Cummins , Deborah Hurwitz , Kevin Dow , Joe Payne , Larry Saltzman , Dave Spier , Bill Hayes , Randall Andos , Bob Milikan , Debra Shufelt , Maxine Roach , Belinda Whitney , Cenovia Cummins , Eric de Gioia , Louise Owen , Robin Zeh , Sarah Schwartz , Shinwon Kim , Christian Hoff , Daniel Reichard , Donnie Kehr , Erica Piccininni , J. Robert Spencer , Jennifer Naimo , John Lloyd Young , Sara Schmidt , Tituss Burgess , Steve Orich , and Bob Gaudio
Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Very Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
  2. The Drowsy Chaperone (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
  3. Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
  4. Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
  5. The Color Purple (2005 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B000BFH2QY
Release Date: 2005-11-01

Tracks:

  1. Ces Soirees la'
  2. Early Years Medley
  3. Cry For Me
  4. Backups Medley
  5. Sherry
  6. Big Girls Don't Cry
  7. Walk Like A Man
  8. December, 1963
  9. My Boyfriend's Back
  10. My Eyes Adored You
  11. Dawn (Go Away)
  12. Big Man In Town
  13. Dialog: A Little Trouble
  14. Beggin'
  15. Dialog: See How You Handle It
  16. Medley Listen Listen
  17. c'mon marianne
  18. Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You
  19. Working My Way Back To You
  20. Fallen Angel

Amazon.com

Although it squarely falls in the "jukebox musical" category, Jersey Boys doesn¹t try to integrate its songs in an artificial plotline. The show tells the story of the early-1960s group the Four Seasons, and the musical numbers tend to be introduced in context, as when songwriter Bob Gaudio comes up with a tune, or the quartet performs a show. This allows Jersey Boys to flow better than some of ill-fated peers, and the actors can shine without having to bend backward to accommodate an inane book. The show's most (only) daring move is to start with a hip-hop-tinged French-language version of "December 1963 (Oh, What a Night)," an actual hit in France in 2000. After that it's all VH1-biopic territory, but it's done with so much flair, taste and energy that the ride's a fun one. The Four Seasons had enough hits ("Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Rag Doll," etc.) to easily fill an evening at the theater, so it's left to the cast to do right by them. And it does, particularly John Lloyd Young as the band¹s star lead, Frankie Valli. Young hits all the falsetto notes and brings real freshness to the part. His "Can¹t Take My Eyes Off You," a second-act peak, is signed, sealed and delivered with a star's acumen. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Album Description

Recounting the rich history and reliving the timeless sounds of the phenomenal Frankie Vallie & The 4 Seasons, the new Broadway musical Jersey Boys answers the musical-and philosophical question, "How did four would-be wise guys from Newark, NJ, become one of the greatest chart-topping successes in pop music history?" Jersey Boys celebrates legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito, and Nick Massi who, as the 4 seasons, wrote their own songs, invented their own identity, and sold 175 million records worldwide-all before they were 30.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast).......2007-07-19

Singers doesn't try to make the same sound the same original. The music sounds like the voices don't care about what they are doing. I was kinda disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars Jersey Boys.......2007-07-08

Purchased CD prior to seeing the show when visiting USA in '06. A fun lively show - the CD now captivates those fond memories of not only the foot tapping music & show but also our special time in New York.

5 out of 5 stars Like being there.......2007-07-05

Have seen the play twice. This album lets me relive the experience anytime anyplace. A great piece of Rock n roll history.

5 out of 5 stars A step back in musical time.......2007-07-05

My wife and daughter didn't know about the Four Seasons but I did. When I told them I wanted to see the musical on stage, there was no interest so I bought this product and they heard it in the car. We went to the stage musical soon after and we have listened to the entire disk so many times I've lost track. I created a Four Seasons monster in my daughter. She's fifteen and has memorized most of the songs and sings along while we are driving somewhere.

4 out of 5 stars Great music, but missing too much.......2007-07-04

I saw this play at age 16 with no idea who the Four Seasons were, but instantly fell in love with it. The problem is, this soudntrack cuts a two hour play into less than an hour on CD. Most of the dialouge is missing, only including enough to let each member of the group at least say something. I know many play soundtracks cut out dialouge, but what confuses me is why this stretches to the music as well. What is there is amazing, but I don't understand why most of the songs are cut to half, and sometimes even a third or fourth of their original lengths. I love this CD, just be aware that you are hardly getting any story, just clips of lots of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons songs. So, great music and dialouge, just not enough for a musical soundtrack.
How To Save A Life
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Album starts off well then fades...
  • Over and over again
  • very listenable tracks
  • excellent album
  • melancholy melody
How To Save A Life
The Fray
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Eyes Open
  2. Continuum
  3. Eye To The Telescope
  4. Move Along
  5. Sam's Town

ASIN: B000AA301G
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

  1. She Is
  2. Over My Head (Cable Car)
  3. How To Save a Life
  4. All At Once
  5. Fall Away
  6. Heaven Forbid
  7. Look After You
  8. Hundred
  9. Vienna
  10. Dead Wrong
  11. Little House
  12. Trust Me

Amazon.com

On their full-length debut, Denver quartet the Fray don't exactly reinvent the wheel, but those looking for melodic, mid-tempo pop could do far worse. That said, the 12 songs on Top 40 hit How To Save a Life are barely distinguishable from each other. If you like one, you'll probably like the rest (and you'll be in the company of thousands of other listeners.) If you don't like one, it's unlikely the others will change your mind. Formed in 2002 and signed by Epic in 2004, the band consists of Isaac Slade (vocals, piano), Joe King (guitar, vocals), Ben Wysocki (drums), and Dave Welsh (guitar). Since their formation, the Fray have elicited comparisons to British groups like Coldplay and Keane, and American ones like Counting Crows and the Wallflowers. They've also toured with Weezer and Ben Folds and had songs--like first single "Over My Head (Cable Car)"--featured on such popular programs as Grey's Anatomy. Though they incorporate guitar, unlike Keane, Slade's expert piano playing is prominent on every track. To his credit, he can also hit the high notes just as gracefully as Coldplay's Chris Martin, but therein lies the rub: As with the band as a whole, Slade hasn't quite found his own voice yet. How To Save a Life is polished and professional, bland and inoffensive. It goes down easy, but evaporates into the ether just as quickly. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Album starts off well then fades..........2007-07-19

By now, most people who listen to alternative rock have heard of these guys. If you are reading this, then you want to know "Do I really want this album?". I think if you like the genre of music a lot (like Coldplay, Blue October, Keane), the go ahead and give this album a try. If you just like one of their songs, consider downloading that song and a couple more (chose from tracks 1 - 6 for more upbeat melodies and after for slower ones). The album tended to grow on me but is still not one I listen too all that often because of many of the songs sounding very similar.

2 out of 5 stars Over and over again.......2007-06-16

I heard "Over MY Head" on a TV cable series, found it catchy, and wanted to find out who recorded it. After an eventful personal odyssey, I finally discovered this. Unfortunately my journey was a wasted effort. HOW TO SAVE A LIFE, the debut album for this piano-based-sounding group (from Denver-if that has any significance), is pleasant enough, that is, on first listening, but it is clearly superficial and soon becomes redundant. The enticing single "Over My Head" does have an entertaining chorus and a memorable refrain that makes nice use of the cable car metaphor. The majority of the other compositions on this album, however, sound as if they were manufactured by a cookie cutter song machine. Indeed, I don't think I recall ever hearing selections that were so much alike: they use a very (VERY) similar musical structure, are almost identical in studio production, and follow the same form- opening with an understated verse which then moves speedily to a chorus (that sounds like the chorus of the previous song) and repeats ala loop to make the statement. A slight exception might be the title track "How To Save A Life" (apparently among those heard on Grey's Anatomy) with its delicate piano intro and tender ballad-like message or "She Is" which demonstrates a bit of a driving rhythm. But even those do not stray too far away from the mold. They both, for example, still employ the same repetitious chorus device (in fact, when I was listening to "How to Save A Life" I thought it was "Over My Head."). The rest aren't even worth comment other than to say they are undistinguished. At best, they are derivative in content (borrowing from other vanilla-type ensembles) which nonetheless still does not excuse their own absence of variety. Likewise, the lead singer's voice, reminiscent perhaps of David Gray's, fits the tone of "Over My Head," but by the time you hear its whining character on two or three of the other tracks [incidentally- NOT like David Gray], you may want to be rescued from the experience. The continued exposure will either annoy you or put you to sleep.
To the point, this first album for The FRAY indicates that the group understands the concept of formula far too well. They should appreciate, however, that comfortable and familiar often leads very quickly to boring. With that in mind, most, if not all, of this can be thrown in the waste bin unless you are looking for sounds that will induce deep slumber. To be honest, its most salient feature is monotony. It is unobtrusively bland and shallow, with little evidence of either creative or original effort.

4 out of 5 stars very listenable tracks.......2007-06-04

I spend most of my time in Europe, so I don't get too much exposure to up and coming bands. By chance on a recent trip home I heard The Fray on one of the 'Top 40' programs. I liked what I heard, sampled a few tracks online, and bought the music. While I might agree with the numerous reviews that say many of the Fray's songs sound similar, I still enjoy them. I recommend giving a listen to the Fray and look forward to seeing what comes next from them.

5 out of 5 stars excellent album.......2007-05-26

This album is a great album. Each song is really good. Very mellow.

4 out of 5 stars melancholy melody.......2007-05-21

The story from "How to save a life" is what got me to buy the CD. If you are interested google them and read about it. The whole CD is inspiring and nice. It is definitly a road trip CD. enjoy!
Breakaway
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Outstanding effort with a little of everything.
  • an amazing album!
  • Bad Advice -- Where is the Real Kelly Clarkson?
  • Kelly breaks away! 4 stars!
  • wonderful
Breakaway
Kelly Clarkson
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Thankful
  2. Some Hearts
  3. Love. Angel. Music. Baby.
  4. Monkey Business
  5. American Idiot

ASIN: B00064ADRK
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Tracks:

  1. Breakaway
  2. Since U Been Gone
  3. Behind These Hazel Eyes
  4. Because Of You
  5. Gone
  6. Addicted
  7. Where Is Your Heart
  8. Walk Away
  9. You Found Me
  10. I Hate Myself For Losing You
  11. Hear Me
  12. Beautiful Disaster (Live)

Amazon.com

Kelly Clarkson could have played her American Idol-propelled career much differently, languishing in the role of dippy ingénue or shunting her musical development by leaning too heavily on overnight stardom. Instead she dug in her heels and allowed good sense (or a good manager) to steer, and somewhere Simon Fuller and the rest of the TV gang ought to be smiling. Credit Breakaway, which couldn't be more aptly titled--the sophomore effort represents a seismic split from the thin if pretty debut, Thankful. Here we encounter Clarkson as superstar, with the humility that made her likable on the first disc tucked tightly under her arm. First single and leadoff track "Breakaway" topped the pop charts on arrival, and its rock-friendly thumps, dips, and rolls don't wear out their welcome. Instead,they blend into the firestorm of beats and guitars that is "Since U Been Gone," another shout-it-out rocker. Those songs set the tone for the rest of the disc in all its fury: The innocence is long gone, "Addicted" and "Hear Me" say. The big, expressive voice ringed by the occasional high-pitch trill--the one that prompted millions to get behind her on Idol--doesn't dip entirely off the radar, though. On "Where Is Your Heart" and the stunning live closer "Beautiful Disaster," it's there in full force--a hint, maybe, that despite the wide, smart career step Breakaway represents, her fans come first. -Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Outstanding effort with a little of everything........2007-07-14

It's funny that, as big of an American Idol fan as I am, I had never bought a CD from an American Idol until now (though I had been given Clay Aiken's first CD as a gift and LOVED it). I'm so glad I bought this one.

We all know Kelly has a powerhouse voice, but this CD shows that her talent has staying power. I have only listened to the CD all the way through 2 or 3 times so far, but I have liked nearly everything I have heard, and I like that there is some variety in the tempo.

5 out of 5 stars an amazing album!.......2007-06-29

it's nothing like breakaway...in my december kelly shows it's not just about the over done poppy tunes but it's about emotions and the music. its a must buy!!

1 out of 5 stars Bad Advice -- Where is the Real Kelly Clarkson?.......2007-06-27

The problem is not so much Kelly Clarkson, it's the record BUSINESS. What happens to people who win a singing competiton, doing songs their OWN way and singing the type of material they do best, is that record executives like Clive Davis tell them, "you've got to sing this in order to sell records." He did it to Fantasia Barrino and I suspect he'll do the same to Jennifer Hudson.

Poor Kelly is yelling her head off about nothing. I've heard that recently, she is fighting back. Good for her. Kelly realizes that if she continues in this vein, she'll look up 25 years from now and realize she has recorded a lot of junk that nobody cares about.

Look at artists like Aretha Franklin. She can proudly look at her discography and find countless gems that have become standards; people are still dancing to "Respect" and other singers are covering "Daydreaming," "Natural Woman," "Until You Come Back To Me," etc. Take Motown. Over 40 years later, everybody, even young people know "Dancing in the Street, " "Come See About Me," "Please Mr. Postman," etc.

Is there anything coming out of today's music that will last more than three months? Kelly needs to sing power ballads and NOT urged to sound like other singers. THIS IS HER CAREER. She wants to make a mark, not just be another girl singer who made some bad records.

4 out of 5 stars Kelly breaks away! 4 stars!.......2007-06-24

I find that this CD is pretty good. It's really catchy but her first was a bit better because there was more soul in her voice and R&B songs.

*The Good*

Breakaway
Since U Been Gone
Because Of You
Gone
Addicted
Where Is Your Heart
Walk Away
You Found Me
I Hate Myself For Losing You

*Doesn't Hurt Or Help*

Behind These Hazel Eyes
Hear Me
Beautiful Disaster (Live) (The version on her first CD is far superior. And for some strange reason, Kelly changes some of the original lyrics)

*The Filler*

Nothing really.

5 out of 5 stars wonderful.......2007-06-13

if you have heard any of her singles, then you already know that you should have brought this album already. the whole album is great and the singles arent even the best on the album. my favorite being addicted.
Duets: An American Classic
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • I'm gonna wear this one out
  • Tony Bennett
  • It really swings
  • Not bad but the voice is going--sorry
  • Watch the DVD, then rate the album
Duets: An American Classic
Tony Bennett
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000H0MKGU
Release Date: 2006-09-26

Tracks:

  1. LULLABY OF BROADWAY duet with Dixie Chicks
  2. SMILE duet with Barbra Streisand
  3. PUT ON A HAPPY FACE duet with James Taylor
  4. THE GOOD LIFE duet with Billy Joel
  5. THE SHADOW OF YOUR SMILE duet with Juanes
  6. RAGS TO RICHES duet with Elton John
  7. THE VERY THOUGHT OF YOU duet with Paul McCartney
  8. COLD, COLD HEART duet with Tim McGraw
  9. IF I RULED THE WORLD duet with Celine Dion
  10. THE BEST IS YET TO COME duet with Diana Krall
  11. FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE duet with Stevie Wonder
  12. ARE YOU HAVIN ANY FUN? duet with Elvis Costello
  13. BECAUSE OF YOU duet with k.d. lang
  14. JUST IN TIME duet with Michael Bubl
  15. THE BOULEVARD OF BROKEN DREAMS duet with Sting
  16. I WANNA BE AROUND - duet with Bono
  17. SING, YOU SINNERS duet with John Legend
  18. I LEFT MY HEART IN SAN FRANCISCO
  19. HOW DO YOU KEEP THE MUSIC PLAYING? duet with George Michael

Amazon.com

At this point, who else but Tony Bennett would have the clout to round up stars on the scale of Elton John, Paul McCartney, Bono, Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand for some duets? (Note also that unlike some similar projects, all the parties involved on this CD were alive when it was recorded!) The material consists of relatively obvious classics in standard big-band arrangements, and Bennett himself is in top form at age 80, so much so that he doesn't need anybody else to handle "I Left My Heart in San Francisco." But the fun comes from checking out how his collaborators fare. The Dixie Chicks provide wonderful Andrews Sisters-type harmonies on the percolating version of "Lullaby of Broadway" that opens the festivities. The best songs tend to be the ones where Bennett's slightly craggy voice is juxtaposed to smooth female ones, like Diana Krall on "The Best Is Yet to Come," familiar accomplice k.d. lang on the sultry "Because of You" and Streisand—-perhaps Bennett's only equal in stature at this point—on "Smile." Among the less expected guests, soulman John Legend is a revelation on the hard-swinging "Sing, You Sinners," while George Michael confirms he's quite the crooner on "How Do You Keep the Music Playing?" Elvis Costello, Celine Dion or Juanes don't sound as comfortable, and sometimes it feels as if they overdo it to compensate, but overall this collection is among the best of its kind, with most guests rising to the occasion. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Amazon.com

Perfecting the art of excellence for over six decades, with 105 albums selling over 50 million copies, Tony Bennett has come to represent the essence of elegance, tradition and artistic accomplishments. Tony celebrates his 80th birthday recording Duets of his greatest hits with today's greatest artists: Bono, Michael Bublé, Elvis Costello, Celine Dion, Dixie Chicks, Billy Joel, Elton John, Juanes, Diana Krall, k.d. lang, John Legend, Paul McCartney, Tim McGraw, George Michael, Sting, Barbra Streisand, James Taylor, and Stevie Wonder.

More from Tony Bennett


The Art of Romance


A Wonderful World (with k. d. lang)


Perfectly Frank: An American Classic Celebrates 80


Basie Swings, Bennett Sings (DVD)


The Movie Song Album


The Classic Collection (Box Set)

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars I'm gonna wear this one out.......2007-07-19

What a great disc! Not only wonderful Tony, but some other great singers, as well. I listen to it in my car and then bring it in at home so I can listen some more. I fell in love with Tony Bennett in 1953 - even wrote him love letters. I was 13 and was thrilled when I received a signed glossy 8x10 photo from him. I belonged to his fan club. His "Rags to Riches" was on the radio a lot, and I had a little 45 player in my room to spin his records on. What a thrill to fall in love with him all over again in my old age! This album is a keeper. My favorite is his duet with Stevie Wonder, whose timing and sound are excellent. I wish there was a whole album of them together. Same with Diana Krall. Buy it. You won't be sorry.

4 out of 5 stars Tony Bennett.......2007-07-16

Great duets, enjoyed every song on the CD!! He still continues to amaze me with that silky voice. He's a legend....

5 out of 5 stars It really swings.......2007-07-14

All classics with new voices. I bought it after seeing the special on PBS.

3 out of 5 stars Not bad but the voice is going--sorry.......2007-06-27

I would say "OK" but it is not of the quality of the Ray Charles' duets. Tony is fantastic but time diminshes the quality of the voice.

5 out of 5 stars Watch the DVD, then rate the album.......2007-06-23

PBS ran the tape of the making of Duets and gave me a whole new perspective on the CD. I now can visualize each song as I listen, and it has enhanced my enjoyment of the best tracks while making ones I thought were not as good much more in line with the Bennett tradition of "telling the story" of each song. He gets inside the music and lives there with such ease.

There is nobody who can blend with Bennett's voice better than k.d. lang - except Diana Krull, James Taylor, Tim McGraw or, well, most of the other people chosen to sing with him.

This record is joyful and not enhanced, as one reviewer suggested. Hearing/seeing how Bennett works with lyrics and other performers still amazes me. I've been a fan since his first recording - there was nothing like a Bennett song for setting the mood.
Elliott Yamin
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • An exceptional debut that grows on you
  • Elliott Yamin does not need synthesizer
  • Elliott sounds really good.
  • OK, so I was wrong. This CD is better than I thought!
  • A great CD!
Elliott Yamin
Elliott Yamin
Manufacturer: Hickory Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000N60HD6
Release Date: 2007-03-20

Tracks:

  1. Movin On
  2. Wait For You
  3. Find a Way
  4. One Word
  5. You Are the One
  6. I'm the Man
  7. Trainwreck
  8. Free
  9. Alright
  10. Take My Breath Away
  11. A Song For You

Amazon.com

Elliott Yamin's debut is so agreeable and well-executed it may well convert hardened R&B experts--the kind who'd normally distance themselves from a disc with a TV pedigree. With sincerity and a voice that vaults itself to places no talent-show contestant should be able to go, Yamin bares his soul here in a way that would do his hero, Donny Hathaway, proud. Tracks like "Take My Breath Away" and "You Are the One" find him twisting a wrench around love-stained lyrics; "I'm the Man" and "Find A Way" flow with hat-in-hand grace (and, in the case of the latter, a scat worthy of a vintage jazz stage); and opener "Movin' On" immortalizes the season five judges'-table words of Paula Abdul: Ellliott Yamin is "one funky white boy." As he proves with this five-star album, he is also among the most gifted artists ever to a turn a stint on the show into a recording career. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars An exceptional debut that grows on you.......2007-07-20

Elliott Yamin in my opinion probably has the best voice of any of the contestants from AI season 5, even though I liked Chris Daughtry a little better overall, I was pulling big time for them both to be in the finale. Alas neither of them made it, so I was excited to know that Elliott had gotten a record deal, because I was fearful he might not get one since he's not as commercially friendly as some of that season's alums, and it would have been a shame to let his amazing voice go unsigned. All that said however, if I would have reviewed this album three months ago when I first listened to it, I definitely wouldn't have given it a 4/5 stars, it probably would have been more around a 2 to 2.5.

Indeed when I first bought the album and upon the initial listens, I couldn't help but be disappointed that such a great talent had put out a CD that in my opinion was very forgettable, granted I did like a few songs at first, such as the first single "Wait For You" and "Movin On". Thankfully I refused to give up on the album, and after making myself listen to the tracks multiple times I soon realized my initial impressions of the album were pretty off. No this is not a 5 star album or a classic in my opinion (but then again how many debut albums are?), but I now regard it as a very solid r&b/pop album. The tracks on this album really do grow on you, so I just want to stress to fans of Yamin that if they're not crazy about the album at first give it a chance before making your final judgments.

The album is definitely very R&Bish / soulful (who says white men can't have soul right?), but there are also pop influences present on the album. Almost every song is well written, especially such ones as "Find a Way", a modern R&B track about the unfairness of the world, and how love has to find a way in order to cope with it all. "Free" is another lyrical highlight about how we have the freedom to be able to make our dreams realities if we put our mind to it, although it's not one of my favorite songs melody-wise.

Some of my favorite melodies on the album are the mid tempo first single "Wait For You" which mixes R&B and pop, and the soft and soothing "You Are The One", a straight up love ballad. "Train Wreck" is a pure R&B song, and a favorite of mine, where Yamin's voice is in top form as he sings about a relationship thats heading for a "train wreck", and I love the hook of the song. On the other end, I love the upbeat rhythms of "Movin On", which boasts a hand clapping beat that accompanies lyrics about getting tired of waiting for his significant other to decide what she wants, and "movin on" with his life. "Alright" is another upbeat track, that wouldn't feel out of place in a club, the song definitely has a hip/hop vibe to it and to me sounds similar to something Usher would record. It's a great change of pace and another favorite of mine.

Thats another good thing about the album, there really is a variety of appeal on here, "Wait For You" and "You Are the One" for example would be perfect for ac radio or even pop, whereas I could see songs like "Movin On" and "Alright" fitting in on current R&B/Hip Hop stations, the album really has a range of appeal from old to young, Adult Contemporary to R&B. Even commercially the album has potential, "Wait For You" has so far become a top 20 hit on the Billbaord Hot 100, and I don't think its the only song on here capable of making it into that tier of the charts.

But perhaps the best thing about this album, is Yamin's voice itself. Even when I wasn't too into the songs yet, I still loved listening to Yamin's strong soulful voice, which shines on pretty much every track here, and fans of Yamin should enjoy the "A Song For You" cover, which is definitely a showcase for Yamins vocals. Even the tracks I don't really care for such as "I'm the Man" and "Take My Breath Away" are made much better by the voice thats singing them.

So overall I'm pleased with Elliott's debut, it took some time, but the album is one that I'll be listening to for awhile. If Yamin can improve upon his debut and grow more as an artist, he should have a long, bright career ahead. 4/5 stars

My Top 5:
1. Wait For You
2. Alright
3. Train Wreck
4. Find A Way
5. Movin On

4 out of 5 stars Elliott Yamin does not need synthesizer.......2007-07-16

I love Elliott Yamin and was pleased with this first cd but he does not need all of the electronic synthesizer effects on some of the cuts. I saw him in person singing these same songs and they were so much better with just a band behind him. I hope his next cd will be done more simply. Elliott is amazing and he should be appreciated in his pure form.

4 out of 5 stars Elliott sounds really good. .......2007-07-14

I really like the sound of Elliott Yamin's voice. It is very soothing. Every song does not sound the same - I like that.

3 out of 5 stars OK, so I was wrong. This CD is better than I thought!.......2007-07-14

Movin' On - 8
Wait For You - 8
Find A Way - 9
One Word - 6
You Are The One - 7
I'm The Man - 6
Train Wreck - 7
Free - 8
Alright - 9
Take My Breath Away - 7
A Song For You - 9

This CD starts on a good note with Movin' On and ends nicely with Donnie Hathaway's A Song For You. Elliot co-wrote Movin' On, Find A Way, You Are The One, Train Wreck and Alright. And this is just his debut!

84/11=7.636363636

That equals 3 stars and then some.

3.8 stars

5 out of 5 stars A great CD!.......2007-07-13

I love every song on this CD. I listen to it all the time, and never, ever get sick of it.
American Doll Posse
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Never been sadder
  • Islamorader
  • American Doll Posse - lovely schizophrenia
  • It's been a great ride Tori, but...
  • Her "Blaring Balls Out" Comeback from the Bombed out "Beekeeper"
American Doll Posse
Tori Amos
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000NVLJR4
Release Date: 2007-05-01

Tracks:

  1. Yo George
  2. Big Wheel
  3. Bouncing Off Clouds
  4. Teenage Hustling
  5. Digital Ghost
  6. You Can Bring Your Dog
  7. Mr. Bad Man
  8. Fat Slut
  9. Girl Disappearing
  10. Secret Spell
  11. Devils and Gods
  12. Body and Soul
  13. Father's Son
  14. Programmable Soda
  15. Code Red
  16. Roosterspur Bridge
  17. Beauty Of Speed
  18. Almost Rosey
  19. Velvet Revolution
  20. Dark Side Of the Sun
  21. Posse Bonus
  22. Smokey Joe
  23. Dragon

Amazon.com

In an era of digital downloads and singles, Tori Amos embraces the concept album in a sprawling 23-song oratorio. Firing across the American psychological, social, and political landscape, she takes on the state of the world, war, and feminism. To help her, she adopts five personas--her American Doll Posse--who take their characteristics from Greek gods, but not their names: Clyde, Pip, Isabel, Santa, and Tori. You need a scorecard to keep track, but don't worry. It's still Tori Amos, bending syllables in improbable pretzels with rippling piano themes and choruses that threaten to go Broadway at any moment. Amos vents her political spleen through "Isabel," leaving no doubt as to her targets on tracks like "Yo George," and comments on our impersonal age and computer addiction with "Digital Ghost." That's sung by the character "Tori," who is reputedly based on Demeter and Dionysus, representing the split between Amos's earth-mother side and her wilder, more libertine tendencies. Anti-war and pro-feminist themes are plastered across American Doll Posse like sloganeering posters. "Dark Side of the Sun" laments both sides of the war, including the Islamists who lay down their lives "for some sick promise of heaven." Amos adopts a big '80s rock sound on many tracks, with guitarist Mac Aladdin pealing off Brian May-style guitar licks over an arena-rock beat. It's where Amos details a more personal sound that American Doll Posse leaves a lasting impression. "Girl Disappearing," sung by "Clyde," holds echoes of the Beatles' "Eleanor Rigby," not only because of the string quartet and nostalgic tone, but the updated tale of a woman losing herself. "Smokey Joe" brims with dark atmospheres, Robert Fripp-like guitar sustains, and Amos's most elaborate vocal arrangements, interweaving two sets of lyrics for "Pip." More than a concept album, American Doll Posse is a convergence experience, mixing online blogs from each character, videos, MySpace sites, and more. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Never been sadder.......2007-07-19

The day has come when Tori has finally began sacrificing her songwriting capabilities for the big bucks. I can take any amount of pretentious backstory and I have loved every album, even going against the majority to love Scarlet's Walk and The Beekeeper and see the maturity in them and love them as inevitable steps in the progression of an artist, but American Doll Posse is rushed and completely uninspired. I cannot fathom why people are lauding this CD as her best in years. Wtf?!

This album has altered my respect for her as an artist. Her progression has stopped. It seems she has finally started listening to her rabid fanbase who only want a return to "form"... Angsty, dark, screechy. Well guess what? That was all well and good, I don't dislike that era. But she has to grow up and evolve and it saddens me that people want Little Earthquakes/Boys for Pele over and over again. Enjoy the albums for what they are, enjoy Tori's refusal to rehash ground and churn out the same albums for years. I'm sorry if everyone hated The Beekeeper, but it had well written songs as well as one of her best ever (title song) and the album truly came alive during the live shows in which I felt it was the strongest material she had written in a while.

I also don't like the blatant "influences" on this album. Tori's always listened to pretty good music (as her choice of covers show), but honestly, basing yourself on a handful of mediocre, cliche 70's bands and aspiring to emulate their sound/feel? What's wrong with her? The world really doesn't need Tori's Led Zeppelin impression.

Bottom line: The songs are boring. Unlike ANY of her other albums, within the first few listens any magic is gone from the songs. They simply don't hold up. They are overly simple, as are the lame drumbeats and guitar notes in the background. It's like a really bad lame version of Choirgirl/Pele, minus any creativity, plus tons of self-consciousness and case of trying way too hard. Tori, you're TORI, you don't need to try to be anyone except yourself. Make them work to be your fans, that is the music that will actually endure.

I feel cheated out of 20$ after rushing out and buying the bonus copy of this CD. I literally gave it away and I don't miss it. Every song is like a pale copy of something else she's done, but with all the magic missing. Tori, this is where we part company. Please, find yourself again and stop trying to please fans who only want to stunt your growth and want you to re-release Boys for Pele again and again.

The only good song on here is the bonus song Smokey Joe.

3 out of 5 stars Islamorader.......2007-07-19

I've heard better from her. This is very experimental. It has some really good songs, some OK and then some that make me think, what was she thinking?

4 out of 5 stars American Doll Posse - lovely schizophrenia.......2007-07-17

I am a huge Tori fan. I was really looking forward to ADP after I heard the single, BIGWHEEL, and so bought it. I loved the concept that Tori had five separate personalities performing within the album, but that actually makes it feel kind of schizophrenic. I suspect that as I listen more, I'll like it more, since that's usually the case with her albums, but the fact that there are 23 tracks makes it a bit tougher to get to every song multiple times. But anyway, any Tori album is better than most others from anyone else.

2 out of 5 stars It's been a great ride Tori, but..........2007-07-15

I must preface this review by stating that I am a big fan of Tori Amos, her work has always moved me and I have all of her albums as well as numerous DVDs and VHS tapes of concerts and videos...in a nutshell, I have been a "Toriphile" since the release of her mind numbing debut "Little Earthquakes" which was absolutely earthshattering.

I must confess though, I find it harder and harder to get motivated to buy her new albums, alot has changed in her personal life since the glory days and it is reflected in her music....she is happy now, she is a wife and mother and I couldn't be happier for her, she deserves it, she had a rough life and if anyone deserves middle aged bliss, it is Tori Amos.

Having said all that, her music has become watered down and emotionless and she has not "moved" me with her work since Choirgirl Hotel.

The piano, for the most part, has been put into the background in favor of a more band oriented sound and the haunting, moving, deeply personal lyrics we have come to know and love have been replaced with political statements, aimless jargon and tired and dull concepts and alter egos.

Tori's lyrics have always been cryptic and confusing, especially on her best work like Boys for Pele.

The difference between then and now is that back then I was very interested in trying to decipher them because it was worth the time, the music meant that much to me and I was desperate to know the mystery of it's meaning.

Now, the music is so bland, unemotional and uninteresting that I don't feel the need to even bother digging deeper anymore.

I saw traces of this on Scarlett's Walk, which was a good album but began to show chinks in her considerable armor.

The Beekeeper was a huge disappointment outside of a few memorable songs and I have to say that American Doll Posse just confirms what I suspected but refused to fully acknowledge for years.....Tori Amos peaked a long time ago and the magic is officially gone.

It's a sad realization for me as a HUGE fan of her past work.

Earthquakes was simply unbelievable, Under the Pink was a very worthy follow up and Boys for Pele is among the best albums I have ever heard by anyone, she brought her listeners on emotional journeys with these albums and was totally captivating and entrancing, that stuff moved me beyond belief and I still listen to her earlier stuff on a regular basis.

I will say that it is a bit unfair for me to judge her new stuff by comparing it to earlier material, but any Toriphile will tell you, it is IMPOSSIBLE not to do that, her early work set a very high bar and she is simply unable to even approach that bar anymore, in fact since her last great album "From the Choirgirl Hotel", every album since has gotten worse and worse.

That bar is now permanently out of reach.

Listen to the sings from Beekepper and ADP and then go back and listen again to songs like Precious Things, Mother, Winter, Tear in your Hand, God, Cornflake Girl, Baker Baker, Waitress, Pretty Good Year, Caught a Lite Sneeze, Professional Widow, Hey Jupiter, Marianne, Putting the Damage On, Spark, Playboy Mommy, etc, etc..

And that is just naming some, there were a bunch of other great songs she had on those albums and nothing she has done since Choirgirl (with a handful of exceptions) even compares, it's like we're talking about 2 different artists at this point.

I think alot of fans are like me and have been in denial about her current works, we want so bad for the ride to continue that we are overlooking the obvious, which is right in front of us.

To give this album a 5 star rating is the definition of the word "reaching" and I'm sorry to say, it is very comical to me, it's like judging with your heart instead of your ears, which I have done for a while now myself because of my affection for anything Tori, but those days are over and reality has set in, at least to me.

Little Earthquakes is a 5 star album, Boys for Pele is a 5 star album, I don't give 5 stars to just anything, it must be truly worthy, and to call American Doll Posse a 5 star album is just silly, it insults and belittles the memory of her true 5 star efforts.

It is a desperate attempt to convince ourselves that this is still the mystical, magical, fiery red headed princess that touched our souls years ago.

But in the end, that magic is gone, that fire no longer rages.

The best way to judge is this.....in 3 or 4 years, when you need a Tori fix on a long drive, which cd's will you choose to accompany you ?

If you say "American Doll Posse" you are lying to yourself.

You will take Earthquakes, Pink and Pele, maybe Choirgirl as well, and you know it.

Those albums are timeless and never get old.

The Beekeeper is already old and very forgettable and American Doll Posse will be forgotten soon enough, both of these albums will have zero staying power.

I love Tori, she has been a special person in my life and always will be through her magical back catalogue but as far as continuing along on the ride with her new music and buying her future cd's, I will quote Tori herself from one of her best songs, "Tear in Your Hand"....

"Maybe it's time to wave goodbye now"



4 out of 5 stars Her "Blaring Balls Out" Comeback from the Bombed out "Beekeeper".......2007-07-01

IF your one of Tori's more discerning fans such as myself...you agree that we dont love her any less,,,,we just expected a little more from her this past millenium than the tepid "ehh-inducing" Strange Little Girls and The Beekeeper. I almost gave up on her entirely.

Move out the way for AMerican Girl Posse. Tori realized she was asleep and burst back on the scene with amp, balls AND YET kept the piano. Many of us love Tori for mainly one thing-- Her Passion. And here it is folks, wrapped up in angry guitars and cascading pianos.

With its 5 interludes, this album most resembles the flow of "Boys for Pele".

If you were worried before...fear not. Tori has finally returned.
From This Moment On
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Cover Artist
  • Diana Krall Excells!
  • "From This Moment On" ~ Diana Krall
  • From This Moment On
  • What went on with Ms. Krall?
From This Moment On
Diana Krall
Manufacturer: Verve
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000GG4KTU
Release Date: 2006-09-19

Tracks:

  1. It Could Happen to You
  2. Isnt This A Lovely Day
  3. How Insensitive
  4. Exactly Like You
  5. From This Moment On
  6. I was Doing All Right
  7. Little Girl Blue
  8. Day In Day Out
  9. Willow Weep For Me
  10. Come Dance With Me
  11. You Can Depend On Me

Amazon.com

This album appears in the footsteps of 2004's The Girl in the Other Room but doesn't sound like a follow-up. Whereas The Girl saw the pianist-singer abandon the Great American Songbook for more personal pastures, From This Moment On sees her working out on standards done in traditional arrangements. Although the tracks here are by the likes of Cole Porter, Jimmy Van Heusen and Sammy Cahn, and the Gershwins, Krall sounds more at ease than ever before; perhaps digging deep inside on The Girl loosened her up. Backed by the Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra on seven tracks, Krall sings off the big band with ease. On the title track, she keeps up with a galloping bass and explosive brass arrangements and even ventures into scatting toward the end of the song. Her voice has also acquired a wonderfully worn texture in the past few years, and it works wonders on the ballads (just listen to "Isn't This a Lovely Day" and "Little Girl Blue" for instance). When standards are done like this, there's just nothing like 'em. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Album Description

From This Moment On is an 11-song collection that captures the Canadian-born sensation in full swing, in great company, and at the top of her game. It could also be called her strongest, most cohesive release to date. Krall--for the few still unknowing--is the 41-year old sensation whose cool, heavy-lidded vocals and strikingly sensitive piano-playing has helped her transcend barriers of genre to become a popular artist of the first order who has carved herself a permanent position at the top of the jazz charts. In songs, mood, and delivery, From This Moment On reveals Krall's personal ardor for that golden era of song-making, when Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and (especially) Nat "King" Cole were in their prime. It's musical territory that Krall has often explored, but this album was certainly not a case of simply repeating past formulas: Krall's A-team of support--producer Tommy LiPuma, engineer Al Schmitt, and arranger/bandleader John Clayton--were on hand to ensure that inspiration was kept on an edge, unhindered by the studio environment.

More Diana Krall

All for You: A Dedication to the Nat King Cole Trio

Live in Paris

Love Scenes

The Girl in the Other Room

Christmas Songs

Stepping Out

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars Cover Artist.......2007-07-19

I listened Diana Krall live in concert tonight. I did not know much about her except that she is regarded as one of the greatest jazz artists of our generation which made me feel rather ignorant as I am a big fan of jazz. She played for an hour and a half tonight and she is obviously a talented musician. However, one thing struck me as odd ... for one of the shining lights of modern jazz, she sang one, ONE, original song. All of the music she played were covers of some of the greatest jazz music ever recorded. What became evident is that this talented woman bears a talent that is only skin deep. The one original song that she sang was horrendous, a lyrical disaster. I cringed each and every time the refrain was repeated. Granted the crowd, purveyors of insipid music one and all, ate it up. Her own music can't all be that bad can it? I walked away with the thought that music, as in fine arts, has simply become a playground for lazy artists to appeal to lazy fans who don't expect any more than rote regurgitation. Diana Krall is a cover artist. What galls me about her fame and fortune is that talent alone didn't make her famous. Is it because she's an attractive woman who can tickle the keys of a piano and sing in a sultry voice? There are multitudes of rock cover bands who get ridiculed for playing songs they didn't write. So, why does this woman get lauded for doing the same thing? Talented yes, but genius? ... to compare her to Cole Porter or Nat King Cole would be sinful.

5 out of 5 stars Diana Krall Excells!.......2007-06-27

Diana has one of the greatest voices in the jazz biz. She plays a great piano, sings as a song bird, and is truly a marvelous performer.
(Cute too.)

Buy this one. If you like jazz, it is a Must in your portfolio/collection.

5 out of 5 stars "From This Moment On" ~ Diana Krall.......2007-06-26

Listening to my CD of Diana Krall, "From This Moment On," is so relaxing.
Diana executes her songs with her strong, yet mellow voice.
The "back-up" band is a great asset to this CD, so between Diana singing and the band playing, you feel like you're "In Concert!"

Everyone HAS to hear it to believe it!

Mike

5 out of 5 stars From This Moment On.......2007-06-10

From This Moment On~ Diana Krall is easy listening jazz at its best. Ms Kralls vocal skills are remarkable and she sings these traditional jazz tunes with conviction and fortitude of a grandmaster of jazz. The book-let is beautifull if a bit sparse. The photographs are simply put it amazing and she looks stunning. The production value is right on the money and I like it since it so easy to listen to even for jazz beginners such as myself. Highly recommended indeed and I easily give this album 5 out of 5 stars.

3 out of 5 stars What went on with Ms. Krall?.......2007-05-24


Repertoire consists of rather expected standards. All broadly covered brilliantly by so many vocalists in the past. Ms. Krall and her arrangers adds nothing at all.

Singing offers no surprise than a mainstream singer would do.

Orchestra is currently the darling big band of the time being. Good players, rare good ideas, nothing impelling.

There is an original and beautiful arrangement here: for the track 'How Insensitive'.

And that's all. Let's wait for the next Krall album.
Because of the Times
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Do not hesitate to buy if you were disappointed with ASH
  • Disappointing comeback
  • Best Alternative/Indie/Rock Album This Year
  • Absolutely gorgeous, top-notch
  • Wow- New Music that actually lives up to its reputation?
Because of the Times
Kings of Leon
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000MRA3NU
Release Date: 2007-04-03

Tracks:

  1. Knocked Up
  2. Charmer
  3. On Call
  4. McFearless
  5. Black Thumbnail
  6. My Party
  7. True Love Way
  8. Ragoo
  9. Fans
  10. The Runner
  11. Trunk
  12. Camaro
  13. Arizona

Amazon.com

Aha Shake Heartbreak may have blown open the doors of fame for Kings of Leon, but their third full-length album (named for a United Pentecostal Church ministers' conference) could well usher the Nashville foursome directly to rock and roll's zenith. There's hardly a change in plans for the three Followill brothers and their cousin, and that means producer Ethan Johns, a smorgasbord of musical influences, and a cacophonous ensemble of guitar, bass, and drums. A trio of relentless rockers--"My Party," "Camaro," and the sarcastic "Charmer"--are sure to pacify those familiar with the Kings' blueprint, yet there is ripening in the band's approach heard, in several of the record's 13 songs. Reverb guitar and vocals and a "woo woo" chorus add a sinister aspect to "Trunk," and "Knocked Up" features a laissez-faire Caleb Followill crooning "She don't care what her mama said/She's gonna have my baby." The seven-minute revelation of fatherhood that opens the album leads into the U2-influenced "McFearless," a reggae-splashed "Ragoo," and the rambling English blues of "Black Thumbnail." It's a rogue element that has always left every record fresh, and this time it has Kings of Leon teetering on the edge of rock renown. --Scott Holter

Album Description

Third album from the rockin' American quartet whose previous albums (2003's Youth And Young Manhood and Aha Shake Heartbreak from '05) have earned them a large worldwide following. Consisting of three brothers and a cousin, the Kings Of Leon mix their own brand of Southern Rock with touches of Garage, Punk and Alternative swagger. RCA.

Album Details

Their third full length album.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Do not hesitate to buy if you were disappointed with ASH.......2007-07-11

I thought Youth and Young Manhood was excellent, thought Aha Shake Heartbreak wasn't that good and therefore wasn't gonna pick up Because of the Times. But my husband had read good reviews and purchased it. Wow! What a coup/comeback for the Followill boys! I think this is their best so far; a very strong disc. I don't think there is a dud song on the whole album. I almost blew out the speakers in my car cranking up Black Thumbnail and My Party over and over and over. Moody, diverse, rockin' - love it! Buy it, you will not be sorry you did.

1 out of 5 stars Disappointing comeback.......2007-07-07

Maybe it's just me, but I haven't been able to get into this. I loved their first album, thought their second one was okay, but this one may be worse than the last one. I can't really give too thorough of a review since I didn't get past the fourth song on the first listen, and haven't listened to it since, even seriously considered trading it in.

I got this CD after reading a stellar review by Q Magazine appauding it. Needless to say, I was disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars Best Alternative/Indie/Rock Album This Year.......2007-07-05

If you're reading this review, you probably know to some extent who the Kings of Leon are - a relatively young indie-rock band out of Tennessee whose appeal is said to come from equal parts youthful energy and wisdom-beyond-their-years.

Their debut was a southern-fried scramble of distorted guitars and yelping vocals that seemed to delight in its own unholiness. On Because of the Times, the guitars are still distorted, the singer's still yelping and the themes aren't necessarily wholesome - see 'Knocked Up', in which singer Caleb belts "She don't care what her mama says, no she's gonna have my baby" - but at times there's a beauty to the arrangements that's almost divine.

That's not to suggest that the band has forgotten to rock, though, because they haven't; in fact, at this point in their career the band has the musicianship to back up their ambition, and the result is some of the most fulfilling rock you can hear on the indie scene today.

If you like either of KoL's previous two albums, you'll love this one. If you're looking for an introduction to the Kings of Leon's work, this is as good a starting point as any.

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely gorgeous, top-notch.......2007-07-01

It's been a while I am aware of KoL. I saw them opening The Strokes and found them interesting. Their first singles were intriguing. But with this album they have reached a summit of musical expression. Sure their sound is certainly more polished, more produced than before, sometimes dangerously sounding U2ish but this CD is simply a beauty of universal soul music. The singer has such an extraordinary soulful voice and melodies and orchestration are captivating. Easily one of the best CDs of 2007 and already lining up for best of 2000s!

4 out of 5 stars Wow- New Music that actually lives up to its reputation?.......2007-06-30

This is a really good CD. I was surprised b/c I have heard them described as the Skynrd Strokes. I am not really a big fan of the Strokes and living in Ohio, you hear Skynrd everytime you turn the radio on. But, this album is unique and doesn't seem packaged. This album has a lot of soul. Buy it, learn the lyrics and sing as loud as you can while in the shower.

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