Sci-Fi

Sci-Fi

Sci-Fi

ASIN: B00004WIOD

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
The whiz-kid acoustic and electric bassist Christian McBride grew up in Philadelphia in the '70s and '80s, and in addition to absorbing the mainstream jazz tradition, he also listened to fusion. That's the music behind this pleasing CD, which is his most complete recording since Number Two Express. With a youthful combo of like-minded compatriots, including tenor and soprano saxophonist Ron Blake, McBride, who also doubles on keyboards, dives into the now nostalgic sounds of the jazz-rock era with power and precision. His take on Steely Dan's "Aja" burns with Blake's Wayne Shorter-derived solo. Sting's Police classic, "Walking on the Moon," is rendered as a moody ballad with bass clarinetist James Carter's sepia tones. Jaco Pastorius's Weather Report anthem "Havona" retains its frenetic fury and Stanley Clarke's "Butterfly Dreams" features McBride's arco bass lead reprising Andy Bey's original vocals. McBride penned the ballad "Uhura's Moment Returned" in honor of the black Star Trek character, while "Science Fiction" recalls Return to Forever. Herbie Hancock's powerful pianism completes the Miles Davis-imaged sound picture on the neo-bop burner "Xerxes," and "Via Mwandishi," named after Hancock's seminal recording of the early '70s, is the CD's best track, with McBride laying down grooving ostinatos and Carter casting bone-deep bass clarinet tones. --Eugene Holley Jr.

Sci-Fi,Christian McBride,Polygram Records,Hard Bop,Jazz,Jazz Music,Pop
Morning Sci-Fi
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Different
  • Contains much fine material from a unique group, but with some changes for the worst
  • Unbelievable!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MUST OWN!!!!!!!!!!!!
  • Hybrid are truly what music is about!
  • Hybrid Does It Again
 Morning Sci-Fi
Hybrid
Manufacturer: Dist. Breaks [Stu]
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Techno | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
TranceTrance | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. I Choose Noise
  2. Y4K
  3. Wider Angle
  4. Wide Angle
  5. Don't Look Now

ASIN: B0000AYL1U
Release Date: 2003-09-22

Tracks:

  1. This Is What It Means
  2. True To Form (featuring Peter Hook)
  3. Know Your Enemy
  4. Marrakech
  5. Im Still Awake
  6. Visible Noise
  7. We Are In Control1
  8. Higher Than A Skyscraper (featuring Peter Hook)
  9. Steal You Away
  10. Gravastar
  11. Out of The Dark
  12. Blackout (featuring Kirsty Hawkshaw)

Album Description

Formed back in 1993, Hybrid is Mike Truman and Chris Healings. Their debut LP Wide Angle and its sister release Wider Angle (repackaged with remixes and live recordings) has sold a total of 33,000+ copies to date in the US. This led to Mike and Chris DJ'ing and performing live around the world, including 48 dates supporting Moby on the Play US Tour.

Now in 2003, these UK Progressive House favorites have delivered a powerful opus with Morning Sci-Fi. Equally exquisite and menacing, the group's second proper full length combines its signature progressive house/breakbeat fusion with cinematic, orchestral flourishes and sturdy rock inferences.

The marriage of live instrumentation and electronic experimentation evident on Morning Sci-Fi is by no means accidental, having wowed this year's Winter Music Conference, Glastonbury Festival and Fabric with their astonishing new live show complete with groundbreaking visuals, and it eventually provided for some of the album's truly inspired collaborations.

Recorded in Russia and at Hybrid's studio in Wales, Morning Sci-Fi features appearances by legendary New Order bassist Peter Hook, drummer Richard Thair (Red Snapper), NY-based DJ/remixer John Creamer, The Hermitage String Orchestra, and vocalist Kirsty Hawkshaw (Opus III, BT, Way Out West) joining band members Alex Madge, Tim Hutton (Groove Armada) and new discovery, vocalist Adam Taylor.

The album title Morning Sci-Fi points to the band's effective presentation of emotional technology. It offers a knowing nod to the sound effects and deft production these accomplished architects have painstakingly created over the last two years and also acknowledges that slightly twisted hour of day between darkness and daybreak which purposefully evokes the feel of the album.

The included Bonus DVD has 40 minutes of footage including clips from the 1999 Moby US Tour, interviews with Hybrid and Peter Hook, and live concert footage from Dublin, Ireland filmed in May 2003.

Album Details

2003 Full Length Album from the Dance Mavens that Stakes Out Further Territory in their Quest to Conquer all Dancefloors of the World. Revenge/Monaco/New Order's Peter Hook Collaborates on Two Tracks, "True to Form" and "Higher Than a Skyscraper" as an Extra Added Attraction.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Different .......2007-04-10

Some excellent tracks, especially Higher than a Skyscraper; This is a completely new sound from Wide Angle, however, be warned.

3 out of 5 stars Contains much fine material from a unique group, but with some changes for the worst.......2006-12-07

In 2003, buzz surrounding the release of Hybrid's second album was omnipresent among dance music cognoscenti. The breakbeat production duo of Chris Healings and Mike Truman had first come to the scene's attention when Sasha championed their track "Symphony", and their first album WIDE ANGLE stunned critics and listeners alike in 2000 with its cinematic scope and glorious mixtures of strings and rigourous intelligent dance music. A single in early 2003, "Visible Noise"/"Gravastar" foretold a darker, more agressive sound.

When MORNING SCI-FI arrived in the autumn we met a rather different Hybrid than before, though the project retains many trademark features. In taking its material live, Hybrid had to grow from a duo into a little family. Two members of Hybrid Live, Adam Taylor on bass and Tim Hutton on guitar, continued on to MORNING SCI-FI. There's also a guest appearance on bass by Joy Division New Order alum Peter Hook. A controversial decision, however, was the inclusion of a permanent vocalist, Adam Taylor, about which more later. But just as the first album had Hybrid working with a string orchestra, here a couple of tracks feature an ensemble from St Petersburg.

MORNING SCI-FI begins with the brief intro "This is What it Means", like the "Opening Credits" on WIDE ANGLE. The first full track, "True to Form", then enters. Immediately the listener will revolt against the juvenile lyrics and the dull vocals of Taylor. Just under three minutes into the track, however, Taylor stops singing and some sick breakbeats drop in, and things get much better from there. About half of the material consists of instrumental tracks. "Marrakech" delights with its vaguely global (Thievery Corporation-like) soundworld. "Visible Noise" is a masterpiece of thorny angular sounds on top of a driving (and purely 4/4) beat, ditto for "Gravastar". "We Are In Control" is the only dud among them. Especial mention must be made of "Higher Than a Skyscraper", MORNING SCI-FI's strings extravanganza, just as glorious as "Finished Symphony" from WIDER ANGLE.

The vocal tracks are tainted by the presence of Adam Taylor, with "I'm Still Awake" approaching pop banality, and "Out of the Dark" lacking direction, though "Steal You Away" limits his involvement to brief lines that fit in well enough with the music. The last track on the album, "Blackout", features vocals by ubiquitous house diva Kirsty Hawkshaw and moving strings, with fine results, probably the second best track here after "Skyscraper".

The album is supplemented with a DVD featuring a documentary of their 2000 tour with Moby. The documentary serves to show the faces behind the sounds one hears. Some of their zany adventures, like a hitchhike with an aging hippie in Colorado and their city-to-city encounters with dedicated groupies, are quite amusing. There's also interviews with the duo, and two live songs, "True to Form" and "Out of the Dark". One regrets, however, that there's nothing live from WIDE ANGLE, it would be nice to see video of "Finished Symphony", for example.

If you know nothing about Hybrid, I think WIDE ANGLE is a flawless effort that any eclectic fan of music must own. MORNING SCI-FI's inclusion of a permanent male vocalist and lesser songwriting power keeps it very much in the shadow of Hybrid's debut album. Still, fans of the production team who got the first release should move on to this, as what is good is very good indeed.

5 out of 5 stars Unbelievable!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MUST OWN!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-06-05

This, IMHO, is one of Hybrid's best works.. All can say is, if you are here, while you are here..BUY THIS you will NOT be dissapointed. Brilliant!

5 out of 5 stars Hybrid are truly what music is about!.......2005-04-11

You know the saying never judge a book by its cover, well i do, i have for years, i do this for two reasons, one i am a graphic designer and am interested in design, two i believe that a cover should reflect the mood and style of the music, forget all that pop crap im talking about the real stuff. i bought morning sci fi and it is absolutely fantastic. so so worth the money, the cover did the cd justice, i have now bought three other hybrid cds.

the music is a hybrid of cinematic, electro, drum and base i would recommend this to anyone who enjoys any type of music, it is easy listening with each song complimenting the other. i have bought copys for my mates that hate with a passion electro, trance and d&b and theyve loved it so it must be good.

5 out of 5 stars Hybrid Does It Again.......2005-03-02

Hybrid, the welsh duo of Mike Truman and Chris Healings, has done it again with their followup album to Wide Angle with an amazing array of new beats and vocals to keep you bopping you head. All though this album isn't as upbeat and energetic as the first album back in 2000, the feel and creativity of Hybrid is still very much present.

Starting out with "True To Form" gives a good varity of beat and vocals to start off the album. People argue that the vocals on the track aren't fit, but I think it adds to the orginiality of their sound. The darker sounds gives some mystery to their collection of songs and numerous remixes.

Songs like "Know Your Enemy", "We Are In Control", and "Visible Noise" bring back Hybrid's hard breaks, which is what most know Hybrid to do best with. They sound at the top of their game when you listen to this beautiful haramonized songs and always leave you waiting for more.

This CD Is a great addition to your collection if you are a longtime breakbeat fan or someone who is looking for a good start to the world of electric music alike. A very rare find these days!
Sun Ra - Space Is The Place
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • pretty good
  • More Archetypal Than Archestral
  • What a bizarre delight!
  • Sun Ra universe will be verified by physics!
  • If it ain't broke...
 Sun Ra - Space Is The Place

Manufacturer: Plexifilm
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video
( S )( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:
  1. Sun Ra - A Joyful Noise
  2. Sun Ra - The Magic Sun
  3. The Wisdom of Sun Ra: Sun Ra's Polemical Broadsheets and Streetcorner Leaflets
  4. Space Is the Place: The Lives and Times of Sun Ra
  5. Sun Ra - Cry of Jazz

ASIN: B0000CD5F5
Release Date: 2003-10-28

Amazon.com

This peculiar, rather warped feature is a product of the highly original mind of the late "musician-thinker" Sun Ra (the former Herman "Sonny" Blount, an accomplished jazz pianist and bandleader). The 82-minute, 1974 film melds effects that are straight out of '50s Japanese sci-fi, politics reflecting '60s racial radicalism, and the overall vibe of '70s blaxploitation films, with some African-Egyptian mythology thrown in for good measure. It isn't exactly a masterpiece of cinema; the production values are mediocre, the story is thin (Ra, who co-wrote, portrays an alien who offers oppressed African Americans the opportunity to seek their "alter-destiny" in outer space; complications ensue before his spaceship departs with true believers on board), the acting amateurish. But it's entertaining--Ra's array of costumes (especially his headgear) is impressive, and we do at least get a taste of his Intergalactic Solar Arkestra's heady brew of avant-garde jazz. --Sam Graham

Description

DESCRIPTION:Science fiction, blaxploitation, cosmic free-jazz and radical race politics combine when Sun Ra returns to earth in his music-powered space ship to battle for the future of the black race and offer an "alter-destiny" to those who would join him. Intentionally created as an homage to the low-budget science fiction films of the 50's and 60's, SPACE IS THE PLACE became a visual embodiment of Sun Ra's Afro-Egyptian myth of salvation in outer space. The special effects, outrageous plot line and apocalyptic message harmonize with the otherworldly score and a climactic live performance by one of the most innovative and profound groups in jazz history. After having traveled through space in a yellow spaceship propelled by music, Sun Ra finds a planet he believes could serve as a new home for the black race. Returning to earth, he lands in Oakland, California circa 1972 and has to battle The Overseer, played by Ray Johnson (from 1971's DIRTY HARRY), a supernatural villain exploiting the black people. The Overseer, the FBI, and NASA -- who are after Ra's Black Space Program -- attempt to assassinate Ra, who escapes into space with his followers before the destruction of Earth. Cosmic blaxploitation cum sociological critique, SPACE IS THE PLACE defies categorization. It is at once a platform for Sun Ra's radical racial philosophies, an indictment of the government's policies in Vietnam-era U.S., cult camp flick, sci-fi movie and concert film with unforgettable performances by the Intergalactic Solar Arkestra. Since its extremely limited release in 1974 -- the film played very briefly in San Francisco and New York -- SPACE IS THE PLACE has become an underground legend spoken about but never seen, and if so, in poorly dubbed bootlegs or in the severely adulterated 1992 VHS version.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars pretty good.......2006-03-31

this film is pretty nice but not nearly as great as the documentary A Joyful Noise. I highly recommend purchasing A Joyful Noise first because it provides a deeper look into Sun Ra.

4 out of 5 stars More Archetypal Than Archestral.......2005-05-25

I picked up this curious period piece of psychedelic, indie-fueled moviemaking some time ago. Sorry now I waited so long to view it. It's a delightful combination of '70's pop culture, science fiction fantasy, Sun Ra musical storytelling through his Inter-Galactical Outer Space Archestra, and black pride allegory that manages to be quite on point.

Initially, I was too fascinated by the imagery and music to think much about any message. In retrospect, Sun Ra is a spiritual being from a space colony playing chess with an earthly demonic pimpmaster for big stakes: the souls of exploited people, black (mostly) and white. The pimpmaster also plays the system, selling his black brothers and sisters to addiction and prostitution for his own pleasure, trapping them in an oppressive, seemingly inescapable existence. A third main character is the media commentator--Jimmy Fay--who seems to be a shill for the pimpmaster and his worldly culture but eventually comes around (perhaps more John the Baptist than Jesus Christ) to sharing the enlightened message of Sun Ra, joining those who are delivered from bondage. All ends happily in a Sun Ra space colony of resurrected, reborn black/white humanity.

Even if you don't buy the Biblical allegory, it's still a cool trip, with a bit of harmless nudity and violence for good measure (just like Cecil De Mille).

5 out of 5 stars What a bizarre delight!.......2004-10-07

What a simultaneously hysterical with fits of lucidity presentation! The running battle between Ra and "Overseer" is a great subtext. Gives some insights into the man, somewhat in spite of Sun Ra's best efforts to stay a "Mystery". The cheesey effects and over the top acting has to be viewed as an ultimate camp cult movie. A JOYFUL NOISE is almost as bizarre, but probably more accessible. Most of the charm is that you can't tell whether he is plain nuts or goofing with you. I understand this was very calculated and intentional on his part.

Parliament/Funkadelic owe more to this guy than I think anybody realizes. I don't know if George Clinton has ever acknowledged his debt to Sun Ra, at least conceptually, for doing the full blown conceptual thing decades before him.

5 out of 5 stars Sun Ra universe will be verified by physics!.......2004-02-23

What a great super-fly atmosphere, Oakland in the early 70s.
Ra has some great parts, and as always the music is tops.

SPACE IS THE PLACE!

3 out of 5 stars If it ain't broke..........2003-12-31

I was very excited to finally be able to purchase this film on DVD. The VHS version has long been a favorite of mine. I bought this new Director's Cut DVD along with the new director's cut DVD of Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii. Boy, I sure do wish that the manufacturers of the Sun Ra DVD had employed Pink Floyd's tactic of including both the new director's cut and the original theatrical cut. Both director's cuts suffer from the same problem--the directors felt that they should mess around with the original releases and "improve" them according to their directorial visions. If you ask me, messing around with the vision of great musicians is not advisable unless you are an equally great director. A note to Space director John Coney: You are not even in the same universe as Sun Ra!

According to Coney, after showing the completed film to Sun Ra, Ra requested that several scenes be deleted. Coney explains this as a kind of prudishness on Ra's part because the scenes had some nudity and sexual content. True, the bulk of the cut scenes follow a pimp and hos story line that is rather racy, but more importantly, it is slow, boring and tangential to the plot. It features some crass humor, pointless nudity, and ugly violence. And, the worst of it all, these new scenes pretty much don't feature any new footage of Sun Ra. They take away from the cool mystery and cosmic themes of the movie and don't improve upon it at all. It is interesting to see these extra scenes, but couldn't they have been included as "deleted scenes"? I only hope that the original cut will make it to DVD some day.
Kosmonauta
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Syrian Step It Up - Strong Release
 Kosmonauta

Manufacturer: A Different Drum
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Techno | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
ElectronicaElectronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
Dance PopDance Pop | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. De-Synchronized
  2. Alien Nation
  3. Gelb

ASIN: B0008D5L4Y
Release Date: 2005-03-22

Tracks:

  1. The Beginning of the End
  2. Enforcer
  3. Future Storm
  4. Empire of the Sands
  5. Blue Moon
  6. Navigation
  7. Beyond the Sun
  8. Space Overdrive
  9. Cosmic Gate
  10. Urania
  11. Nova 4001

Product Description

Syrian presents their stunning 2nd album which once again combines a passion for sci-fi lyrical drama with slamming, high-energy electronic music. Fans of synthpop, trance, futurepop, or industrial dance can all find this CD appealing as Syrian manages to combine catchy melodies and hooks with serious sonic intensity.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Syrian Step It Up - Strong Release.......2005-07-11

The follow-up to Syrian's 2003 space-age debut De-Synchronized is here. Once again we find the Italian duo probing the other reaches of the universe. I mean these guys are really into the cosmic motif; the singer refers to himself as Andylab, while the synthesist prefers the moniker Voyager (real name Lorenzo Bettelli). They walk the line somewhere between straight-up synthpop, trance and futurepop.

The music is 100% clean and crisp electronic mostly of the dancefloor variety. The production provides the hard beats, throbbing basslines and sparkling melodies that modern synthpop listeners demand. Melodic hooks and catchy lyrical twists abound. The atmosphere is often set by spacey synth sweeps and liberal usage of samples of communications between Cosmonauts and home base. The vocals often are vocoded and frequently 2 tracks of vocals are present in the same song with one FX treatment playing off another - a successful vehicle in my thinking. "Enforcer", 1 of the 3 singles, and "Future Storm" are similar EBM-style tracks displaying a harder edge than they had previously shown. "Empire of the Sands" strikes me as gentle and dreamy. "Beyond The Sun" is an instrumental that completely disregards the format of every other song on the album. It is not danceable, there are no samples or artificial reminders of the theme and it barely seems electronic... but it's very nice. Another single, "Space Overdrive" is a hyper-bubbly chunk of bleep-blop synthpop that will actually make you feel guilty for liking it. The final single, the trance-influenced "Cosmic Gate," is notable for its use of Italian vocals save for the chorus.

Clearly these space-boys have grown as songwriters and producers over the past 2 years. Everything here flows together with precision. Harmony abounds. Not all of the tracks are perfect, the scope is narrow, and you really have to be a fan of both electronica and sci-fi to get off on this. If you're going to get this, I recommend picking up the limited edition containing an entire 8-track bonus disc with remixes from both this album and their debut.
Sci-Fi
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • skillfully executed, but nothing memorable
  • A solid modern disc
  • Christian just doesn't seem to let up
  • the best new jazz CD of the year (so far)
 Sci-Fi
Christian McBride
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop GeneralBebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music
Hard BopHard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
Modern PostbebopModern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music
Smooth JazzSmooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
Jazz FunkJazz Funk | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Vertical Vision
  2. Gettin' to It
  3. A Family Affair
  4. Live at Tonic
  5. Number Two Express

ASIN: B00004WIOD
Release Date: 2000-09-12

Tracks:

  1. Aja
  2. Uhura's Moment Returned
  3. Xeres
  4. Lullaby For A Ladybug
  5. Science Fiction
  6. Walking On The Moon
  7. Havona
  8. I Guess I'll Have To Forget
  9. Butterfly Dreams
  10. Via Mwandishi
  11. The Sci-Fi Outro

Amazon.com

The whiz-kid acoustic and electric bassist Christian McBride grew up in Philadelphia in the '70s and '80s, and in addition to absorbing the mainstream jazz tradition, he also listened to fusion. That's the music behind this pleasing CD, which is his most complete recording since Number Two Express. With a youthful combo of like-minded compatriots, including tenor and soprano saxophonist Ron Blake, McBride, who also doubles on keyboards, dives into the now nostalgic sounds of the jazz-rock era with power and precision. His take on Steely Dan's "Aja" burns with Blake's Wayne Shorter-derived solo. Sting's Police classic, "Walking on the Moon," is rendered as a moody ballad with bass clarinetist James Carter's sepia tones. Jaco Pastorius's Weather Report anthem "Havona" retains its frenetic fury and Stanley Clarke's "Butterfly Dreams" features McBride's arco bass lead reprising Andy Bey's original vocals. McBride penned the ballad "Uhura's Moment Returned" in honor of the black Star Trek character, while "Science Fiction" recalls Return to Forever. Herbie Hancock's powerful pianism completes the Miles Davis-imaged sound picture on the neo-bop burner "Xerxes," and "Via Mwandishi," named after Hancock's seminal recording of the early '70s, is the CD's best track, with McBride laying down grooving ostinatos and Carter casting bone-deep bass clarinet tones. --Eugene Holley Jr.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars skillfully executed, but nothing memorable.......2001-04-17

Previous albums have already placed McBride at the forefront of modern (particularly acoustic) jazz bass. This album confirms that status. I can't see anyone having any major complaints about this album; it exudes professionalism and taste. The musicians gets ample opportunity to show off their chops on burners like "Aja" (check out the wicked guitar solo by Gilmour) and "Havona" (check out McBride's acoustic work, which many players would be hard pressed to emulate even on electric), but musicality is the guiding theme throughout. That being said, I give it only three stars because, even after about ten listens, it mostly remains an undifferentiated blur. In a nutshell, I'd file this among the many slick and satisfying, but ultimately uninspiring, modern jazz recordings of recent years.

As for style, this album follows the modern jazz mold of "Number Two Express," as opposed to the more straight-ahead sound of "Gettin' to It" and the groove-oriented theme of "Family Affair."

3 out of 5 stars A solid modern disc.......2000-10-17

McBride's latest effort is a solid, although at best a mediocre modern jazz set. And although a bulk of the material is treated with the same rhythmic approach, a few bright spots appear. "Uhura's Moment Returned" precedes the superb "Xerxes", and ironically pianist Mitchell loans a few of Herbie Hancock's licks (Hancock plays on the next track, "Xerxes"); nevertheless he does a great work on the tune. "Xerxes" features Herbie Hancock, and his playing is pleasingly free-form and "out". On "Lullaby For A Ladybug", well, you can tell it's also Hancock alright. "Via Mwandishi" the next best track, is dedicated to one of Hancock's 70s bands. It has reedist James Carter's great work. McBride also pays homage to his other musical influences and heroes: besides Steely Dan's "Aja", Sting's "Walking On The Moon", Jaco Pastorius' "Havona" and Stanley Clarke's "Butterfly Dreams" are included. "Walking On The Moon" is a beautiful ballad treatment with Carter on bass clarinet. Especially the arrangement of the original bridge in 3/4 is great. "Havona" on the other hand turns out to be the weakest effort on the disc. The band plays it almost as Weather Report did, but WITHOUT the aggression, drive and enthusiasm. As if they were reading it from a Real Book! McBride plays Jaco's original bass lines with his upright, and loans a bit from his Weather Report solo. On the whole, I think the disc is quite unbalanced with even some smooth jazz included (listen to "I Guess I'll Have To Forget": a guaranteed radioplay tune complete with Toots Thielemans' harmonica solo).

5 out of 5 stars Christian just doesn't seem to let up.......2000-10-10

Sci-Fi is just further evidence that Christian McBride contiues to evolve as not only a musician but as a composer/songwriter as well. I have been following Christian for a few years now and this record could be his best since his original (not that the other two are that far behind). His take on Steely Dan's "Aja" is absolutely perfect because he doesn't take anything away from the original version of the song but at the sametime adds a whole new dimension to it. Other hightlights from the album include "Xerxes" w/Herbie Hancock and Sting's "Walking on the Moon" and one listen to him tackle Jaco's bass line on "Havona" (on the UPRIGHT TOO!!!) will send almost any bass player to the woodshed. His band is great too (especially Rodney green on drums). All in all this is an album that should be picked up by those who enjoy good music.

5 out of 5 stars the best new jazz CD of the year (so far).......2000-09-19

With Sci-Fi, the bassist has scored his best album since his 1996 debut, Number Two Express. The eleven tracks here run the gamut from heartfelt ballads to serious fusion workouts, and all points in between. McBride, who is at home on both acoustic and electric bass, also doubles on keyboards. His core band--Ron Blake (saxes), Shedrick Mitchell (keyboards) and Rodney Green (drums)--and the assorted guest musicians on the CD dive headfirst into the mainly jazz-rock sounds with power and precision.

From the time you hit the play button, highlights abound on the Philadelphia native's latest album. His take on Steely Dan's "Aja" is nothing short of electrifying. Blake and Mitchell turn in inspired solos on the song, and David Gilmore's guitar solo absolutely smokes. "Uhura's Moment Returned" is a combination of the Star Trek Theme & the Oliver Nelson standard, "Stolen Moments." Mitchell shines once again on this tune, soloing effortlessly over McBride's walking bass line. After an acoustic bass solo, McBride is rejoined by the rest of the band on the song's theme.

"Xerxes" is a freeform/fusion workout, featuring Herbie Hancock on piano, and a brilliant acoustic solo by McBride. One of the best tracks on the CD is "Science Fiction." Inspired by the film, The Matrix, the song sounds a lot like Return to Forever, with exceptional musicianship from everyone involved. Bass clarinetist James Carter turns in a particularly sensitive performance on The Police's "Walking on the Moon." McBride carries the melody, with Carter filling in all the spaces, as they turn Sting's reggae classic into a moody, introspective ballad.

McBride pays homage to a number of his bass idols on Sci-Fi. One of the best is his cover of Jaco Pastorius' classic from the Weather Report days, "Havona." Retaining all of its frenetic fury, and then some, this is another of the many highlights on the CD, with a killer solo by McBride and outstanding drumming from Green. The pace slows down a bit on "I Guess I'll Have to Forget." The song features a beautiful Toots Thielemans solo, and shows yet another aspect of the musical talents of this group. "Via Mwandishi" is McBride's personal tribute to Herbie Hancock's seminal fusion group of the 70's. It starts off slow, then gets into some serious funk. The song's bassline is one of the most memorable on the disc.

Simply put, Sci-Fi is one of the best jazz albums of the year. It's sure to garner some new fans for McBride, and keep the existing ones happy as well.
Sci-Fi Channel - Sci-Fi's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1: Final Frontiers
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • For the Most Part, A Great Collection
  • disappointment.
  • Interesting !!....but beware
  • Great sci-fi memories
  • MUSIC FOR THE GALACTIC TRAVELER
 Sci-Fi Channel - Sci-Fi's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1: Final Frontiers
Various Artists
Manufacturer: TVT
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Movie SoundtracksMovie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Television SoundtracksTelevision Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
1990s1990s | By Decade | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Movie SoundtracksMovie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Sci-Fi Channel - Sci-Fi's Greatest Hits, Vol. 2: The Dark Side
  2. Sci-Fi Channel - Sci-Fi's Greatest Hits, Vol. 3: The Uninvited
  3. Sci-Fi Channel - Sci-Fi's Greatest Hits, Vol. 4: Defenders Of Justice
  4. The Science Fiction Album
  5. Fantastic Journey

ASIN: B00000G4T3
Release Date: 1998-11-17

Tracks:

  1. 2001: A Space Odyssey - Main Title - The Seattle Symphony
  2. Star Wars - Main Title - National Philharmonic Orchestra/Charles Gerhardt
  3. The Empire Strikes Back
  4. Return Of The Jedi - National Philharmonic Orchestra/Charles Gerhardt
  5. Star Trek
  6. Star Trek: The Next Generation
  7. Lost In Space (1965 TV Theme)
  8. Lost In Space (1967 TV Theme)
  9. Lost In Space (Film Theme)
  10. Battlestar Galactica
  11. Space: 1999
  12. Buck Rogers In The 25th Century
  13. Babylon 5
  14. The Black Hole
  15. Alien
  16. The Abyss
  17. Voyage To The Bottom of the Sea (TV)
  18. Journey To The Center Of The Earth
  19. Land of the Giants
  20. Planet of the Apes
  21. Time Tunnel
  22. Fireball XL-5
  23. Dr. Who
  24. Stargate
  25. Total Recall
  26. Blade Runner
  27. Tron
  28. Strange Days
  29. VR.5
  30. Space Above & Beyond
  31. Inside Space
  32. Welcome to Paradox
  33. Mission: Genesis

Amazon.com

This first installment of Sci-Fi's Greatest Hits opens, appropriately, with two famous pieces, "2001: A Space Odyssey" (a.k.a. the prelude to Strauss's Also sprach Zarathustra) and "Star Wars" (a.k.a. John Williams's variation on Holst's The Planets), and further mines film and TV history for interstellar anthems. Much of this stuff is predictable; different selections from films like The Black Hole and Blade Runner would have been more interesting. Yet there are diamonds in the rough, including the eerily disjointed theme to Planet of the Apes, the psychedelic electronic swirl of Dr. Who, and the squealing strings of Alien (before such a concept became cinema cliché). This is a decent dedication to those brave souls exploring the furthest reaches of space. --Bryan Reesman

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars For the Most Part, A Great Collection.......2007-01-27

No various artists CD collection is going to be perfect, and "Final Frontiers" is no exception. Still, I am quite pleased with this compilation.

Yes, it's true: the tracks for "Star Wars", "The Empire Strikes Back", and "Return of the Jedi" are re-records and not from the original soundtrack. But now the good news: unless you already own the original soundtrack CDs and know them by heart, you'd think that these WERE the originals. They're that good. "Star Wars" (Track 2) starts with the opening credits music, including music from the opening battle scene, then segues nicely into a medley inspired by the closing credits music. "Empire Strikes Back" (Track 3) is the Imperial March/Darth Vader's theme. (Gotta love that, right?) "Return of the Jedi" (Track 4) is the least of the three, not unlike the movie itself.

For people looking to add to their musical library, might I suggest also picking up Sony's "Classical Hits" compilation CD, also available on Amazon. That version includes the "Battle of the Fates" music from Phantom Menace, as well as music from other movies, like Gladiator, Braveheart, and Titanic. Even better, all of the aforementioned tracks on the "Classical Hits" CD ARE the original soundtrack recordings. So by just purchasing that CD and this one, "Final Frontiers", you'll have plenty of great movie music at your fingertips.

A few other quick observations about "Final Frontiers":

The "Star Trek" theme (Track 5) varies slightly from the version heard on the TV show. I have to believe that this is not the original Alexander Courage recording from 1966, but instead a re-recording. Let your own ears be the judge.

The Amazon track listings for the "Lost in Space" themes are in error. Track 7 is actually the theme from the 1967 season, followed by the 1965 season theme(Track 8). No big. Both tunes, composed by John Williams, would appear the studio originals. Which is a good thing, because 1967 season theme is hard to find on CD.

The sound quality for the theme from "Buck Rogers in the 25th Century" (Track 12) is atrocious. And I don't mean from an audiophile's perspective. Your average sound novice will listen to that track and think, "Where was that music recorded, in somebody's toilet?"

Personal faves, like "Planet of the Apes", "Dr. Who", "Total Recall", "Battlestar Galactica" (Lorne Greene version) and the wonderfully cheesy "Space 1999" theme are all here, and are all studio originals.

Overall, a great purchase.

3 out of 5 stars disappointment........2005-07-01

Disappointment. To tell the truth, I have purchased this CD mainly because of the "Alien" movie theme. Therefore was very disappointed - the theme was reduced, as it seems to me, on 70 %. The same is with the "Abyss" theme - you will hear drums only... Music from Blade Runner sounds strange - not like Vangelis. I regret, that has bought this CD.

3 out of 5 stars Interesting !!....but beware.......2002-04-17

Whoa !! When I first saw this on Amazon, I did not hesitate to grab hold of this as soon as possible. There they are.....all the themes from TV and movies from the 60s to 90s that I've always wanted. But sadly, halfway through the CD, I felt a bit disappointed as not all are originals (and I wonder why they could not get their hands on them, since this CD is priced at premium). So beware of the following :

Track 1 : Space Odyssey to Track 4 : Return of the Jedi
These are NOT originals, but recorded by other orchestras.

Tracks 5 to 25 : are originals, containing many interesting TV themes from the 60s and 70s, except that, the theme of Buck Rogers is so badly mastered that it sounds as if it was recorded with a microphone direct from the TV box. They should have just dumped this track if they could not get a better recording.

Track 26 : Blade Runner is the recording by the New American orchestra, and NOT the original by Vangelis.

Tracks 28 to 33 : they are originals from the TV, but most are too short and some merely contains snippets of sounds and voices, not really worth listening.

But, overall this is a must buy, as you can only get all these themes together in this volume.

5 out of 5 stars Great sci-fi memories.......2001-06-26

"Sci-Fi's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1: Final Frontiers" is an anthology CD that collects science fiction music from film and television. The themes included span in time from the late 1950s to the late 1990s.

This CD is a lot of fun, and will evoke a lot of memories for those of us who have enjoyed these shows and movies (either first run or in syndication). Many of sci-fi's most famous musical cues are here: the opening fanfare from "2001: A Space Odyssey," the theme from the original "Star Trek" (complete with the memorable narration), the "Dr. Who" theme, and more. Overall, a great treat for sci-fi fans.

5 out of 5 stars MUSIC FOR THE GALACTIC TRAVELER.......1999-02-10

FOR ANYONE WHO LOVES THE MUSIC THAT ACCOMPANIED THE ADVENTURES OF CAPTIAN KIRK,DR.SMITH,LUKE SKYWALKER,DR.WHO,OR LT. STARBUCK & APOLLO THIS CD'S FOR YOU.A WONDERFUL COMPILIATION OF 33 OF THE MOST POPULAR SPACE THEMES EVER FROM TELEVISION AND THE MOVIES. ALL OF THE TRACKS SEEM TO BE THE ORIGINALS WHICH MAKES THIS C.D. A MUST HAVE FOR ALL SCIENCE FICTION COLLECTORS.I'VE BOUGHT SCIENE FICTION SOUNDTRACKS BEFORE BUT NONE COMPARE TO THIS COLLECTION.IF YOU'RE A FAN OF OUTER SPACE MOVIES AND T.V. SHOWS THIS C.D. IS AIMED TO PLEASE!I LOOK FOWARD TO GETTING THE REST OS THE SCI-FI SOUNDTRACKS COLLECTION!
Hi-Fi Sci-Fi
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • One of the best bands that you never heard of
  • Is this the same Gaben Komar from Coos Bay, Oregon???
  • The best band that didn't make it
  • $.99 cents but great!
  • If You Love Good Rock N' Roll...
 Hi-Fi Sci-Fi
Dramarama
Manufacturer: Chameleon / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Oldies & Retro | Rock | Styles | Music
Power PopPower Pop | Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music
Hard RockHard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Vinyl
  2. Everybody Dies
  3. Stuck in Wonderamaland
  4. The Best of Dramarama: 18 Big Ones
  5. Cinéma Vérité

ASIN: B000001A3P
Release Date: 1993-06-15

Tracks:

  1. Introduction/Hey Betty
  2. Work For Food
  3. Shadowless Heart
  4. Swallowed Your Cure
  5. Where's The Manual
  6. Senseless Fun
  7. Bad Seed
  8. Incredible
  9. Prayer
  10. Don't Feel Like Doing Drugs
  11. Right On Baby, Baby
  12. Late Night Phone Call
  13. Double Secret Bonus Track

Amazon.com

Dramarama has always been a hard band to peg. Since starting out in Wayne, New Jersey, in the mid-'80s, the band has synthesized early '70s glam rock influences with enough skill to avoid the retro tag at the same time that it's managed to avoid sounding current. The group's big-hair metal look and choreographed stage show were too slick to be alternative but the band members were too geeky and obsessive to be mainstream FM rockers. Auteurs Chris Carter and John Easdale must be tired of not belonging, because on Hi-Fi-Sci-Fi, they all too eagerly embrace the played-out grunge movement. The result is jacked-up, tuneless noise, but things are even worse when the group abandons the fuzzy formula to indulge in cocktail-lounge jazz. Only "Late Night Phone Call" recalls the catchy magic of early Dramarama releases such as Cinema Vérité and Box Office Bomb. --Jim DeRogatis

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars One of the best bands that you never heard of.......2005-12-18

Simply put this album (cd) is STELLAR ! A roller coaster of a musical journey . I just wish I could have seen them live in their heyday . BUY THIS CD , you will not be disappointed .

3 out of 5 stars Is this the same Gaben Komar from Coos Bay, Oregon???.......2004-06-30

If so, email me sharpsjoe@hotmail.com

5 out of 5 stars The best band that didn't make it.......2003-12-05

I think Dramarama is one of the best rock and roll bands ever and it always amazes me that they never became hugely successful. This album is one of their best. John Easedale is a fantastic singer/songwriter and songs such as "Work for Food", "Don't feel Like Doing Drugs" and "Prayer" deserve much wider recognition.

5 out of 5 stars $.99 cents but great!.......2002-03-18

This is one of the best CD's I own! Dramarama is the most underated band out there. If you appreciate good rock music, I highly recommend picking this one up! I got it from my dad for $.99 from the local dollar store but it is the greatest!

5 out of 5 stars If You Love Good Rock N' Roll..........1999-12-28

One of the most underrated albums of any decade. Every song is dripping with good rock n' roll. This is the fantastic, sloppy rock that the Replacements shaped out of punk and the Rolling Stones back in the '80s. Heart-aching ballads, full speed rockers, and the most genuine, wonderful voice in rock, John Easdale. This is their last album, and a high point in their career. Virtually everything they did was good, but rarely were their albums as solid as this one is. I rarely rave about albums like this, so I'm not some drooling fan.
Cybernet: Official Roleplaying Soundtrack
Average customer rating: Not rated
    		Cybernet: Official Roleplaying Soundtrack
    Stratos
    Manufacturer: Bailey Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
    ElectronicaElectronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B000CAG4PS
    Release Date: 2005-05-10
    Sci-Fi Lullabies
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Music for the shaved heads, raveheads, and jumble sale mums.
    • A B-Sides collection that contains A-Side worthy materal!
    • Suede's best songs
    • Your Royal Stickiness, Your Highness.
    • IN AND OF ITSELF MORE THAN A COMPILATION
    		 Sci-Fi Lullabies
    London Suede
    Manufacturer: Sony
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
    BritpopBritpop | British Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
    Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
    GlamGlam | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Dog Man Star
    2. Suede
    3. A New Morning
    4. Coming Up [ENHANCED CD]
    5. Here Come the Tears

    ASIN: B000002C4G
    Release Date: 1997-11-04

    Tracks:

    1. My Insatiable One
    2. To The Birds
    3. Where The Pigs Don't Fly
    4. He's Dead
    5. The Big Time
    6. High Rising
    7. The Living Dead
    8. My Dark Star
    9. Killing Of A Flash Boy
    10. Whipsnade
    11. Modern Boys
    12. Together
    13. Bentswood Boys
    14. Europe Is Our Playground

    Tracks:

    1. Every Monday Morning Comes
    2. Have You Ever Been This Low?
    3. Another No One
    4. Young Men
    5. The Sound Of The Streets
    6. Money
    7. W.S.D.
    8. This Time
    9. Jumble Sale Mums
    10. These Are The Sad Songs
    11. Sadie
    12. Graffiti Women
    13. Duchess

    Amazon.com

    This compilation of singles and B-sides from 1992 to 1997 from the impassioned Suede (add the "London" for the Yanks, please) reveals the evolution of a band whose legacy will outlast the hectic number of British darlings who grace the cover of New Musical Express. Bandleader Brett Anderson's accomplished vocals, ranging from his patented soulful falsetto to folksinger sincerity, virtually defines the band, but the song-craft is truly accomplished. Suede pull off the especially difficult trick of paying homage to the magnificent British pop sound of the '60s without copping it wholesale. The guitars snarl without sneering, subtly spacy guitar effects echo Pink Floyd's early space-rock days, and convenient genre-bound labels crumble; Sci-Fi Lullabies is an excellent summary for fans who have charted their career, and an immersive experience that will turn the uninitiated listener into an addict craving more. --Alan E. Rapp

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Music for the shaved heads, raveheads, and jumble sale mums........2005-05-03

    Yes, ladies and gentlemen, it is hard to believe, but these are the b-sides. 27 shining, melodious masterpieces spanning the greatest incarnations of Suede flavour their blazing accomplishment. From dysphoria and madness of Northern townsfolk to urbane transvestites and exotic undergrounders, Suede forfeits any caution, creating a maddening mixture of pop and rock, modern and classic.

    "Sci-Fi Lullabies" reads almost more like a disjointed opera than any old pop band's record. Brett Anderson's heartbreaking melodies and lyrics scream falsettoed angst; the voice of an era.

    Passed over by radio and MTV, the miracles on this record have rarely fallen on the inexperienced ear. There is a more sensible, subtler and sophisticated Suede than many have given credit based on previously released material. Though it's not to say Suede falls short on their studio albums- they are brilliant- but free from pressures and in-band fighting the freeform menagerie sensually emanating from the speakers is innocent and raw.

    Suede does on "Sci-Fi Lullabies" what Suede does best- dramatics, sexual perversion, heroin dirges, and flashboy murders. And every track is a winner to every loser.

    5 out of 5 stars A B-Sides collection that contains A-Side worthy materal!.......2004-06-14

    Sci-Fi Lullabies is Suede's b-sides compilation, encompassing 1992-1997. However, it is also one of Suede's best albums, including songs that, beyond being worthy enough to be A-sides in their own right, could have enhanced any of the albums they might have appeared on. Disc 1 focuses mainly on Bernard Butler-era material while Disc 2 takes in the Richard Oakes era. Superlative cuts include My Insatiable One, To the Birds, He's Dead, The Living Dead, Modern Boys, Together, Young Men, WSD, and Sadie.

    5 out of 5 stars Suede's best songs.......2004-04-17

    Dollar-for-dollar, this compilation is a better deal than any of Suede's albums. In some cases, these b-sides are quite a bit stronger than the a-sides they were originally packaged with.

    The first side is the stronger of the two, with 'To The Birds,' 'High Rising,' 'My Dark Star,' 'Killing of a Flash Boy,' 'Together' and especially 'Europe is our Playground' brushing the sublime. 'But that's almost all the songs on the side,' you might say. Well, yeah.

    The second side is Suede in their later phase, their grittier, less artistic phase, and while I don't think it led to a decline in the quality of their albums, I do think the b-sides suffered. Still, 'Every Monday Morning,' 'Money' and 'Sadie' are excellent.

    This is just Suede's best music, simply. A must-have for any collection, and especially for the fan.

    5 out of 5 stars Your Royal Stickiness, Your Highness........2003-12-15

    Now that Suede have called it a day it's time to look back at their work, I start here because this is where they made their last brilliant piece of work. To call Sci-Fi Lullabies a compilation is insane but that's exactly what it is, a b-side album. These songs are by no means "throwaways". How these songs didn't make the final cut is a mystery to all of us Suedeheads. The instrumentation and lyrics are a match, very complex, well thought out and perfectly executed.

    The songs which feature the guitar works of both Bernard Butler and Richard Oakes are absolutely brilliant and they suit them in different ways, Bernard's style being classical, complex, textured and the lengthy solos while Richard's style is more straightforward, upbeat, dynamic, modern and rockier. Both are greatly talented and define the Suede "sound". My favorite songs with Butler are; Where The Pigs Don't Fly and Killing Of A Flashboy, while with Oakes they are; Together and Young Men.

    Mat Osman is an underrated bass player, he's overshadowed by the brilliance of Butler and Oakes but, if you listen closely you'll hear very well constructed basslines throughout songs like Whipsnade, Sadie and Europe Is Our Playground. After this album their creativity took a slight dip in Head Music and A New Morning is not on a par with their best work and I'm being kind. If you're a novice and want a quick review of Suede's career, then buy "Singles" but, if you have some money to spend on a few albums then I would recommend starting with Sci-Fi Lullabies and go back from there with Coming Up, Dog Man Star and Suede. I look at Suede's period of excellence from 1992 to 1997. In retrospect, this was their last work of genius and what a career it was indeed. Thanks for making great music and to quote them, "see you in the next life".

    4 out of 5 stars IN AND OF ITSELF MORE THAN A COMPILATION.......2003-06-01

    Fluid and dreamy but not without a pop beat sensibility, England's 'Suede' sails a romantic ferry across the Mersy with inspirations of Smiths, Bowie and Ray Davies along as passengers in this 27 track double CD compilation. Brett Anderson has a personable, emotional singing style and although the lyrics lack much depth his tidy and refined songs are heart-felt and often striking in a folk-goth-rock minstrel way. Guitarist Richard Oakes lays down some flashy superb rock tracks without causing much corrosion to the pretty tapestry.
    Sci.Fi.Hi.Fi._01
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • A funky ride through lots of great house melodies.
    • Great House!
    		 Sci.Fi.Hi.Fi._01
    Ewan Pearson
    Manufacturer: Soma
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
    HouseHouse | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Sci.Fi.Hi.Fi._02
    2. Get Physical, Vol. 2
    3. Hallucination Limited Presents Three Hallucienda
    4. Vol. 3: Si Fi Hi Fi
    5. Fabric 29

    ASIN: B0009UVBN6
    Release Date: 2005-10-04

    Tracks:

    1. Clashing Egos - I Trusted You
    2. Lontano - Lovebass
    3. Feist - Inside and Out
    4. Husky Rescue - Summertime Cowboy
    5. Dirt Crew - Largo
    6. Ricardo Villalobos - Easy Lee
    7. Different Gear - Pop Idle (Instrumental)
    8. Brazilian Girls - Don't Stop
    9. Karu - Maraud Your Ears
    10. Spirit Catcher - Key Generator
    11. Danton - Odd Bassliner
    12. Dirk Technic - I Love You
    13. Soldout - I Don't Want To Have Sex With You
    14. Alex Visconti - I Wanna Be Your Everything
    15. Da Fresh - Broken Dream

    Album Description

    Soma Recordings have been pioneering electronic music since the label began in 1991. Now with the Sci-Fi-Hi-Fi collection they are bringing together visionary producers and DJ's to present a sonic snapshot of their craft. The artists have no parameters to their selection and are free to represent themselves in any style they choose, portraying influences past, present and future. Ewan Pearson begins the series in fine style with his delectable excursion through deep and provocative electronic house music. He has long established himself as one the UK's finest producers and his amazing remix ability has set the standard in recent years, with the likes of Alter Ego, Moby and Depeche Mode all calling on his deft ability to transform a track in his unique style. Since relocating to Berlin, Ewan has seen his DJ career flourish and has subsequently rocked floors as far a field as South Africa, Argentina, Mexico and Australia, while his regular gigs at Pulp in Paris, Pressure in Glasgow and Manumission in Ibiza have given him fanatical following in these places. However, it is Ewan's own `Come Shake The Whole' residency in London that gives him the most pleasure, as he says "It's there that I've learned most about playing records to people, and there that I feel most comfortable and myself when playing." This is the first time Ewan has released a mix album and to make it special he has used Ableton Live, the software has allowed him to include a range of tempos, key-match and re-edit tracks that would have otherwise have been impossible for him to do. The mix itself perfectly captures the atmosphere of hearing Ewan play live in the club, while the melody and harmony that prevails throughout creates an ideal home listening experience. The track selection conveys Ewan's unique taste and plenty of new music, some exclusives and unreleased gems including Danton `Odd Bassliner', Tim Paris' mix of Karu, Spirit Catcher's `Key Generator' and Carl Finlow's breathtaking mix of Villalobos `Easy Lee'. Ewan Pearson has outdone himself with this immaculate collection and has set the standard for the Sci-Fi Hi-Fi series, and mix compilations everywhere.

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars A funky ride through lots of great house melodies........2006-07-06

    I actually purchased Luciano's Volume 2 of this series first, and then came back and found this one. They are both very different, as Luciano's is techno and minimal, and frequently devoid of melody, while this one is chock full of some very catchy house melodies. I must admit that after the first listen, I didn't enjoy it very much, as I don't usually listen to this type of house much lately. However, after the 2nd listen I was hooked by the superb mixing and the journey Ewan takes us through some simple yet very diverse sounds. There's just the right amount of electro to freshen up this standard deep house style. Vocals are prevalent, but are done cheese free and add just the right touch when needed. Not sure why this one got the title of Sci Fi Hi Fi, because there really isn't anything here to make it sound too spacey, barring a few electro jolts.

    Overall, I enjoyed every track and it's a solid house mix, all the way through. Lots of slightly varying styles, but all remaining true to the standard house genre. While the Luciano CD is much closer to the Sci Fi title, this one is a good by no matter what it's called.

    5 out of 5 stars Great House!.......2006-05-24

    This is a nice deep house production. If you like this, check out the first full length CD for producer Quentin Allen as Karu. There are other 12" releases on Silver Network, Dadhouse, Winding Road, Mimosa & Smooth Agent. This CD is a very consistant production with a good blend of jazz, hip-hop, techno, neo-soul, and deep house all together. The beats are very crisp and sound good in the car, the house or the club. Some songs tastefully use vocal snippets to add flavor. There is even a track featuring Warren Harris aka Hanna (Shadow Records, Silver Network, Flat & Round, Freerange). If you want good quality deep house, this CD is for you.
    Best of Sci-Fi
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      		Best of Sci-Fi
      Starsound Orchestra
      Manufacturer: K-Tel
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      Movie SoundtracksMovie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
      ASIN: B00000DV2P
      Release Date: 1995-09-29

      Tracks:

      1. Star Trek: Theme From 'Star Trek'/Theme From 'Star Trek The Next Generation'
      2. Theme From 'Predator'
      3. Theme From 'Cocoon'
      4. Theme From 'Close Encounters Of The Third Kind'
      5. Theme From 'Superman'
      6. Theme From 'Terminator'
      7. 'E.T.' Theme
      8. Theme From 'Robocop'
      9. Theme From 'The Abyss'
      10. Theme From 'Total Recall'
      11. Theme From 'Dune'
      12. Theme From 'Star Wars'

      Jazz Music:

      1. Secret [Import]
      2. Softly
      3. Solo: Improvisations for Expanded Piano
      4. Solo Voyage
      5. Songs Without Words
      6. Soul Shadows
      7. Sound
      8. Sound of 65/There's a Bond Between Us [Import]
      9. Southern Exposure
      10. Speakin' Out

      Jazz Music

      Jazz Music