David Axelrod [Enhanced]

David Axelrod [Enhanced]

ASIN: B00005LEW8

Track Listings

1. Little Children

2. Jimmy T.

3. Crystal Ball

4. Fantasy for Ralph

5. Dr and The Diamond

6. Big B Plus

7. For Land's Sake

8. Shadow Knows

9. Loved Boy

Editorial Reviews
From URB Magazine
Thanks to the serendipitous routes through music that sampling encourages, David Axelrod has enjoyed a renaissance some 30 years after his career peak. You may not have heard the name before, but you've heard his indelible compositional style - dissonant and dense, yet delicate and funky - on songs including Dr. Dre's "The Next Episode," Mos Def's "Hip-Hop" and DJ Shadow's "Midnight in a Perfect World." He's not the most sampled artist in rap history, but he's become one of the most respected for his brilliant compositions and insights into the breadth of funk.

His newest album is actually 31 years old, a revisit of a lost 1968 acetate, but you'd never guess its age by listening. All of Axelrod's timeless elements and key players are beautifully front and center: Carol Kaye's stirring, rich bass lines; drummer Earl Palmer's crackling breakbeats; and a bellowing horn section arranged by H.B. Barnum. On the contemporary tip, Ras Kass appears on "Little Children," one of the two new songs on the album. Axelrod's longtime collaborator Lou Rawls offers vocals on "Loved Boy," the other.

The best songs, though, are the ones dedicated to the hip-hop artists responsible for Axelrod's resurgence. "Dr. and the Diamond" (for Dr. Dre and Diamond D) is dark and dramatic like a winter storm, but the prize gem is "The Shadow Knows" (for DJ Shadow), a seven-minute epic of immense grace, beauty and weight. In times like this, it's clear that Axelrod is as essential to music now as he was 30 years ago.

Oliver Wang

Product Description
'David Axelrod' is a classic album, blending the past and the present, featuring one of David's longest standing collaborators Lou Rawls and the street poetry of LA rapper Ras Kass. Recorded at the famous Capitol B studio, over rhythm tracks originally laid down by Carol Kaye, Earl Palmer, Howard Roberts and Joe Sample in 1968, 'David Axelrod' features 9 new Axelrod compositions lovingly composed, arranged and conducted by David Axelrod, produced by David Axelrod and H.B Barnum. Also contains enhanced content, on MoWax Recordings, packaged in a Digipak.

Tracks:

House Of Mirrors - David McCallum
The Edge - David McCallum
Pula Yetla - Letta Mbulu
Lifetime Monologue - Lou Rawls
You've Made Me So Very Happy - Lou Rawls
The Smile
Songs Of Innocence
The Mental Traveler
A Divine Image
London
The Fly
The Human Abstract
Warning Talk, Part One
Warning Talk, Part Three
The Signs, Part One
Theme From The Fox - Don Randi
Tensity - Cannonball Adderley Quintet

Amazon.com

Relegated to obscurity until leading hip-hop producers started mining his records for beats, producer and composer David Axelrod is a true American genius. There is no shortage of "Axe" compilations on the scene, but this one benefits from fluid programming, great artwork, and for the first time, mastered from the original session reels. One of Capitol Records' leading producers in the studio, the majority of this Axelrod compilation is culled from his 3 solo albums for the label; Song of Innocence, Songs of Experience, and Earth Rot. Also present are some break beat covers by Lou Rawls, and an extended piece the Axe contributed to a Cannonball Adderley LP. Filled with spacey vibes, eerie flutes, and super-funky rhythm, this is the go-to compilation for Axelrod fans. If you have other compilations you'll still want this, and if you don't, get with it! --Kristian St. Clair

Album Description

Though he worked for a series of labels over the course of his storied career, David Axelrod is best known as one of Capitol Records' foremost producers during the company's glory years in the 1960s. Under his production, actor David McCallum released four albums; soulster Lou Rawls released a countless number of LPs (including his first gold album, Lou Rawls Live); Cannonball Adderly released Mercy, Mercy, Mercy (1966), one of the highest selling jazz albums of all time; and countless artists from Letta Mbulu to Common People released albums that spanned the gamut from funky African folk to psychedelic rock. Axelrod himself released three albums as a solo artist on Capitol - Songs of Innocence (1968), Songs of Experience (1969), and Earth Rot (1970) - the first of which even legendary producer Quincy Jones admitted was the immediate precursor to jazz-fusion.

David Axelrod was instrumental in creating the Black Music division at Capitol Records in the mid-'60s, and had a string of hit albums with artists such as soul singer Lou Rawls and jazz saxophonist Cannonball Adderley. Today he is best known in the hip-hop world for three albums he released on Capitol under his own name between 1968-1970. Songs of Innocence, Songs of Experience, Earth Rot, and other ancillary Axelrod productions are among the most sampled records in hip-hop history, having been mined by producers as varied as Madlib, DJ Shadow, and Dr. Dre, Mos Def, and many others.

Original LPs that Axelrod produced are coveted among DJs and crate-diggers. This definitive retrospective is the first release to put his career in its proper context and present it with the sonic quality it merits.

Produced by Eothen "Egon" Alapatt

Customer Reviews:

If you're a hip-hop head or love good music.......2005-12-21

In brief: Been down with hiphop since '79 and because of hiphop ive gotten to know and appreciate other forms of music. This is a must have for hiphop lovers.... its somethin' to drive to...somethin' to vibe to...a cd you can ZONE out on.... dont hesitate.

he wears sunglasses INSIDE.......2005-12-11

So good! Axelrod founded the "black music" division of Capitol records in the '60s. During his reign at Capitol he produced amazing records by Cannonball Adderley, Lou Rawls and David McCallum. He also pretty much created the two weirdest Electric Prunes albums. What has been hardest to track down are three of his own records during that era: Songs of Experience, Songs Of Innocence, and Earth Rot. On these, Axelrod put together an orchestra of sound complete with strings, hammond organ and a super rich backbeat that's been sampled and worshiped by the likes of DJ Shadow, Madlib and Dr Dre.

This collection compiles tracks from those three albums as well as a few choice cuts he produced for other artists at Captiol circa '66-'70. His sound is one that laid the foundation for the explosion in fusion which would happen in the '70s. Miles Davis always gave props to Axelrod and one could argue that he was very responsible for helping lay the foundation for a work like Bitches Brew to be born. Taking the richness of soul, the freedom of jazz, elements of classical composition and hints of rock and psych-pop Axelrod is one of the few guys who can get away with wearing sunglasses inside 'cause he was just that cool!

Pick It Up !.......2005-12-11

Okay well it must be said that part of the reason that there is renewed interest in DA's work is because his work has been source material for Dr. Dre and DJ Shadow both of whom have appropriated the funky percussive elements which underly many of DA's compositions. Word spread and soon lots of samplists, DJs, and turntablists started dumpster diving for anything with the Axelrod name on it in an effort to come up with that perfect loop much in the same way that early samplists plundered James Brown recordings for "phat beats" (e.g. "The Funky Drummer").

All this aside what you have here is an overview of DA's work he accomplished while working for Capitol records. Thus its more of a survey than it is a single, cohesive work but thats okay. We have some examples of interesting compositions which, certainly at the time, were pushing some boundaries by fusing funk, classical harmony, and the occasional electric guitar within highly dynamic arrangements (Check out "The Smile", "Songs of Innocence"). Sure some of the instrumentation sounds dated but that reflects the recording and arrangement practices which called for strings and brass which are elements I miss in pop music of today.

What I really like is that DA covers a lot of sonic ground with his quality arrangements and typically wraps it up around the four minute mark. And this was at a time when most artists were still trying to perfect the 2 minute pop song format. In some ways his work presaged the prog rock music scene that later emerged though those acts typically went overboard and burdened us with 20 minute album sides containing unengaging arrangements and faux classical flourishes in an attempt to fool hipsters into thinking they were listening to something "really cool".

But back to DA. There is a sense of suspense throughout all these works and one can easily imagine some of this music being used as soundtrack elements for films (check out "A Divine Image" for a good example). He creates some serious tension here that lingers on for quite a while before it moves into a loping drum beat that moves you past the eerie sounds that came right before. The longest track on the CS is "Tensity" which features Cannonball Adderly so you the opportunity to hear this jazz giant rip over what we now recognize as very funky beats which is something that ,in general, jazzers hadn't necessarily embraced.

I recently read an interview with DA who mentioned that both Quincy Jones and Frank Zappa strongly urged him to hire a publicist to advance his public profile though its a move he never made which is a shame since he had a great deal to offer
as a producer and arranger. So should you buy this CD ? Oh I think so. Its leagues aboves anything you hear today and has spirit and organic energy that makes it ride high above some of the over-produced stuff you hear today. Look at it another way.
The samplists love to pick up stuff that has its own energy and warmth because it makes their jobs all the easier as they assemble tracks. So check it out

A Superb Collection of Axelrod's Capitol Years.......2005-11-05

Listening to David Axelrod, even after these many years, is still an adventuorus experience, musically bold, unpredictably changing tone and mood, working the edge of the melody, exploring different atmospheres ... well, you may have noticed my reverence for this man.

As a producer, where he made his name first and reach deep recognition, he worked with Cannonball Adderley, Lou Rawls, Electric Prunes and David McCallum -yes, Illya Kuryakin- and as distinct as these choices were, realizing some far reaching material in each case.

"The Edge," this anthology, focuses on one specific period of his career, his years at Capitol. So, the albums "Songs of Innocence," "Songs of Experience" and "Earth Rot" are properly represented, with the rest of the material coming from some of his most far out recoding sessions as a producer.

The material here is consistently strong, beautiful and challenging often at once, ahead of its time, never conceding to caution nor selling his vision short. Choosing among these selections, can only be picking a certain kind of gem, pointing to those tracks that move me the most.

One caution for long time fans of Axelrod, If you own the three albums he wrote and performed, what you'll find here will only be his production work. It's worth mentioning, though, that the cuts with Lou Rawls, Letta Mbulu -whoever she is, her track is spellbinding- as well as the tender "Theme from The Fox" with Don Randi and Cannonball's monumental "Tensity," are well worth buying this album.

For people who are new to David Axelrod, or looking for a "point of entry" into his work, this is a perfect purchase. You may even hear in these tunes many of the people you already worshipped. His influence, although little known, has been extensive. This album will introduce you to one of the original sources of some the best music going on today from Jazz to Hip-Hop.

The Warner/Reprise Sessions: The Electric Prunes & Pride

Average customer rating:

The Warner/Reprise Sessions: The Electric Prunes & Pride
David Axelrod
Manufacturer: Wea International
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Too Much to Dream - Original Group Recordings: Reprise 1966-1967
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ASIN: B000LP5DC4
Release Date: 2007-07-03

Tracks:

Kyrie Eleison
Gloria
Credo
Sanctus
Benedictus
Agnus Dei
Kol
Holy Are You
General Confessional
Individual Confessional
Our Father, Our King
The Adoration
Closing Hymn
Proud Sorrow
A Hope
The Death Of Juan Diaz
The
In The Wilderness
Worthless Pleasures
Returning Home
Song Of The Pirate
Kyrie Eleison (Instrumental)
Gloria (Instrumental)
Credo (Instrumental)
Sanctus (Instrumental)
Benedictus (Instrumental)
Agnus Dei (Instrumental)
Kol Nidre (Instrumental
Holy Are You (Instrumental)
General Confessional (Instrumental 1)
Individual Confessional (Instrumental 1
Our Father, Our King (Instrumental 1)
The Adoration (Instrumental 1)
Closing Hymn (Instrumental 1)
General Confessional (Instrumental 2)
Individual Confessional (Instrumental 2
Our Father, Our King (Instrumental 2)
The Adoration (Instrumental 2)
Closing Hymn (Instrumental 2)
Holy Are You (Alternate Version)

Album Description

The only part of his career not yet anthologised are his productions on the third and fourth Electric Prunes albums "Release Of An Oath" and "Mass In F". The second disc of this album is entirely composed of previously unreleased instrumental takes and alternates of The Electric Prunes sessions which are a revelation and have not been heard since they were recorded nearly 40 years ago. Warner/Rhino. 2007.

Album Details

After More Than a Decade of Re-appraisal of his Work as a Producer and as an Artist, David Axelrod Has Attained Cult Status with his Capitol Productions on Lou Rawls, Julian "Cannonball" Adderley, David Mccallum and his Own Solo Albums Being Highly Sought-after by Collectors and Especially Producers, Notably Doctor Dre who Sampled "The Edge" on the Second David Mccallum Album to Provide the Backing for "The Next Episode". The Only Part of his Career Not Yet Anthologised Are his Productions on the Third and Fourth Electric Prunes Albums "Release of an Oath"And "Mass in F" Where the Original Band were Largely Supplanted by Hollywood Session Royalty, Including Carol Kaye (Bass), Don Randi (Keyboards),howard Roberts (Guitar), Lou Morrel (Guitar) and Earl Palmer (Drums). A Third Recording, the Obscure and Super-rare "Pride" Album from 1970 Rounds Up all his Warner Productions.

Average customer rating:

Headphone album...
j davis v d axelrod
Jazz That William Blake Would Have Felt Honored By
PERFECT

Songs of Experience
David Axelrod
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Song of Innocence
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ASIN: B00004SQ29
Release Date: 2000-06-05

Tracks:

The Poison Tree
A Little Girl Lost
London
The Sick Rose
The School Boy
The Human Abstract
The Fly
The Divine Image

Album Description

First time on CD for this long out of print rarity. Highly experimental for it's time. Combinations of layered cushions of strings & heavily effected drums wrapped in a blanket of what were then, brand new studio effects within this album. A seminal album for James Lavelle & UNKLE who have worked with Axelrod. 2000 release. Standard jewel case.

Album Details

First Time on CD for this Long Out of Print Rarity. Highly Experimental Music for It's Time.

Customer Reviews:

Headphone album..........2006-01-07

It's really quite beautiful. I listened to it in headphones the other night and just marvelled at the mixdown; the layering, the general way Axelrod builds tension with somewhat unconventional arrangements.

Also a bonus if you were ever into Dj Shadow's Endtroducing. But still an amazing record anyway. It's worth the import price.

j davis v d axelrod.......2005-09-15

I might be stating the obvious to most hip hop heads but for the old school who admire axelrods work,you must check out dj shadow.You can see how axelrods music has inspired shadows arrangments & production to create a modern day spin. Both artist are pure genius's, so for those who havent, check these guys out

Jazz That William Blake Would Have Felt Honored By.......2005-06-07

Songs of Experience represents the second half of David Axelrod's musical vision of William Blake's famous Songs. Whereas the first album on this project, Songs of innocence (you can check my review of this one too), is hopeful, daring and overall ambitious, these Songs of Experience, well, experiment. This is a darker album, a different but still quite lyrical and fearless Axelrod bringing to a masterful close the cycle initiated on his 68' debut, Songs of Innocence.

The compositions, arrangements, and band performance are superb. When you realize that this album was released in 1969, you may begin to appreciate the innovative mind and mature expresiveness that blesses each of these Songs.
Along with its earlier half, a young masterpiece from one of Jazz's great, underecognized talents.

PERFECT.......2000-05-24

I am a music fan. Always have been.

But this, THIS, is something different, altogether,

I can NOT believe how wonderful this record -- all of Axelrod's music, really -- is.

BUY IT!

Tracks:

The Warning Talk (Part I)
The Warning Talk (Part II)
The Warning Talk (Part III)
The Warning Talk (Part IV)
The Sign (Part I)
The Sign (Part II)
The Sign (Part III)
The Sign (Part IV)

Album Description

UK reissue of the 1970 album which is out-of-print domestically. 8 tracks in all.

Album Details

Axelrod's most unique recording. Originally released in 1970, 'Earthrot' is an ecological warning, with lyrics takes from the book of Isaiah and the Navajo legend 'Song of the Earth Spirit'. A unique blend of orchestrated musicians vs. ethereal vocal incantations and choruses.

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A Work of Wonder
A suite in seven parts...

Song of Innocence

Manufacturer: Msi
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Songs of Experience
Earth Rot
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1968 to 1970: An Axelrod Anthology
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ASIN: B00004THIV
Release Date: 2000-05-23

Customer Reviews:

A Work of Wonder.......2005-06-10

Along with its counterpart "Songs of Experience" -both single, consecutive releases about William Blake's books of poems- "Songs of Innocence" represents, perhaps, the essence of Axelrod's daring and beautiful work.
Released in 1968, this album reflects much of what was going on with music then, and probably represents one of its most interesting documents. Axelrod, still rather young was already at a creative peak: Jazz discovering Rock and willing to embrace it, orchestral arrangements that are bold and pushing the envelope of the traditional big band concept and -along with the addition of electric guitars- engage in full psychedelic flight without indulging in trippiness for trippiness' sake.
Where its succesor, Song of Experience, can be dark and ominous at times, something that would be even more pronounced in the albums that follow these, Songs of Innocence is hopeful, the wide-eyed wonder of someone wanting to tell you all the promise they see ahead.
As you listen to it, you may find difficult not to be swept by this music and be impressed by its visionary power. Don't be surprised if you find sounds you might have credit other artists for, who only got there years later.
I recommend that you get both albums and listen to them in tandem. Of course begin here with "...Innocence" -just like life does- and then move on to "... Experience." Although both works stand alone and each is a distinct marvel, the combined listening experience will provide even more pleasure and insight into the mind and heart of one of a great contemporary composer who, given the weight and depth of what he has to offer, has been sadly under-recognized.

A suite in seven parts..........2003-06-13

This 1968 album was inspired by the writings of William Blake, as was it's followup "Songs of Experience". Record producer Axelrod had produced hits for folks like Cannonball Adderley, The Electric Prunes, and Lou Rawls, amongst others, in '68 he got the chance to produce his first solo album. Featuring a full bass heavy sound that isn't a million miles removed from the soundtracks John Barry was doing for the James Bond films at the time, but Axelrod is far more musically ambitious and psychedelic.
Almost symphonic orchestrations with loud electric guitar, an insistent beat, plenty of dreamy atmospherics, great drumming and more.

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Good stuff.
Good stuff.
Going for Baroque

1968 to 1970: An Axelrod Anthology
David Axelrod
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Antholgy 2
Songs of Experience
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ASIN: B00000JAU7
Release Date: 1999-05-17

Tracks:

Warning Talk, Pt. 1
Holy Are You - The Electric Prunes
Holy Thrusday
For What It's Worth - Lou Rawls
Kukuchi - Letta Mbulu
Mental Traveler
Space Spiritual - Nat Adderley Sextet
London
Urizen
School Boy
Sign, Pt. 1
Fly
General Confessional - The Electric Prunes
Smile
Human Abstract
Why (Am I Treated So Bad) - Cannonball Adderley
Sign, Pts. 2 - 4
West Wind - Letta Mbulu

Album Description

Compilation for the often-sampled artist/ arranger/ producer, one of the most influential producers of the late '60s. 18 tracks, including performances by Axelrod, Electric Prunes, Lou Rawls and Letta Mbulu. Some of the tracks included have been sampled by Fatboy Slim, U.N.K.L.E. and DJ Shadow. 1999 release. The full title is '1968 To 1970 An Axelrod Anthology'.

Album Details

Compilation of Much-Sampled Artist (Fatboy Slim, Unkle, Etc).

Customer Reviews:

Good stuff........2002-03-23

There is something for anyone to like on this, from African singing, to spacey jazz, to stuff that sounds like soundtracks to great non-existant films. This is more varied than his recent cd, so if you like it, try this one.

Good stuff........2002-03-23

Going for Baroque.......2001-10-12

David Axelrod's production reeks of late 60s West Coast rock. This compilation covers work from his own albums as well as a few examples of his touch with other artists. Individual tracks range from the very good to the excellent, but as a whole the rather baroque arrangements and stale psychedelia can sometimes make it quite heavy going. If you appreciate music of this era this is a worthy buy.

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David Axelrod & Mo' Wax Come Full Circle.
Song of Innocence part II
Points Across Time

David Axelrod
David Axelrod
Manufacturer: Mo' Wax
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Songs of Experience
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The Edge - David Axelrod at Capitol Records 1966-1970

ASIN: B00005LEW8
Release Date: 2001-11-06

Tracks:

Little Children
Jimmy T.
Crystal Ball
Fantasy for Ralph
Dr and The Diamond
Big B Plus
For Land's Sake
Shadow Knows
Loved Boy

Album Description

'David Axelrod' is a classic album, blending the past and the present, featuring one of David's longest standing collaborators Lou Rawls and the street poetry of LA rapper Ras Kass. Recorded at the famous Capitol B studio, over rhythm tracks originally laid down by Carol Kaye, Earl Palmer, Howard Roberts and Joe Sample in 1968, 'David Axelrod' features 9 new Axelrod compositions lovingly composed, arranged and conducted by David Axelrod, produced by David Axelrod and H.B Barnum. Also contains enhanced content, on MoWax Recordings, packaged in a Digipak.

Customer Reviews:

David Axelrod & Mo' Wax Come Full Circle........2001-12-03

(This is Part Two of a Two-Part Review.)

Thank God for James Lavelle at Mo' Wax and DJ Shadow. And all of the MC's, DJ's, ambient artists and samplers who have used David Axelrod records in one form or another. Who knew that this remarkable arranger/composer who once did records for the Electric Prunes, Cannonball Adderley, Lou Rawls and his own works would have such an impact on the past five years?

"David Axelrod" is almost an accidental gift to those who have raised his notriety from just a musical footnote. What began as a rediscovery of an acetate from a long-abandoned session has turned into a cross-culturing event. This IS the true stuff from the man who skillfully blended jazz, classical, funk, psychedelia, gospel and LA studio savvy into an art form that should be heralded more because of the man's innovation of making opposites meet.

It's not a perfect product on the surface. Under forty minutes long, transferred from the mono acetate (yeah, you hear the surface age) with overdubbed stereo strings. It could have been a total disaster, sure, but the last five years of innovations in trip/hip-hop, ambient/soundscape forms and rediscoveries of fusion and LA soul-lounge pop say otherwise.

If anything, this album is more relevant and timely. The 7 songs (from the acetate) sound like they could have been done yesterday and not 30 years ago. Not only do the string arrangements and excellent updated solos compliment these pieces, but also show the mastery of how good (and essential) these session players were in making Axelrod's sound & vision take off. (And were talking people like guitarist Howard Roberts, drummer Earl Palmer, bassist Carol Kaye, keyboardists Don Randi & Joe Sample...to name a few.)

But it's the two newer pieces that make this a very emotional experience. "The Little Children", with a harrowing and haunting rap/monologue by rapper Ras Kass, can only give a slight hint of the pain that Axelrod has been through during these last three decades. It's a very original mixing of symphonic classical elements, with hip-hop/urban truth, choral colorings and a terrific alto solo from Lanny Morgan. Terrific.

But when it ends on the second new piece, "Loved Boy", Axelrod's pain is made very explicit. With a sad trumpet intro (by Oscar Brashear) and a beautiful (and almost operatic) vocal by Lou Rawls, this complex symphonic piece is a grabber. Written for his son (who passed away years ago), the simple and emotional lyric is a beautiful epitaph that is a universal message of familial loss. Try NOT to shed tears during these three minutes and you WILL fail miserably. It's a damn powerful piece.

With this effort, both David Axelrod & the Mo' Wax label have come full circle. Like DJ Sahdow's "Endtroducing", this album knows how to communicate musically with the listener and gives you an unexpected & lasting emotional connection.

If there were more albums similar to the above genres and geniuses, this would be happier place. Sadly, that's not the case. That's where the heart comes in. Let's see more...

Song of Innocence part II.......2001-11-30

This is a great album if you enjoy Axelrod's first two Lp's: Song of Innocence and Songs of Experience....but be warned..the mastering is so horrible!!! The first two albums were mastered wonderfully while this album's sound quality is POOR...complete with white noise, clipping, and the like.....I don't know what the deal is. Anyways, the compositions are wonderful and it's worth the purchase despite its sonic flaws.

Points Across Time.......2001-11-07

Axelrod enjoyed a long stint as the resident soul music producer at Capitol records in the late sixties. This is his first work in nearly a decade to recive distribution. Some of his albums were big hits, while others were not promoted and have become rare. Beat-digging hip-hop producers have long shelled out larges sums for original issues of his hard to find works. He has been sampled by contemporary artists such as the Beatnuts, and Dr Dre. This album connects his classic sound to its modern influence. Dj Shadow, writing the liner notes, details what went into the creation of this album. This album aims for a classic timbre. David Axelrod brought his classic session players to Capitol Records Studio B, where he recorded decades earlier. At parts the intruments as so dissonant as to nearly sound off-key. This album avoids earlier Axelrod follies, it avoids pretentious god speak and cheesy vocals. There is a heavy jazz influence here, and most of the music is intrumental. "The Dr. and the Diamond" a track dedicated to Dr. Dre and Diamond D, has a guitar riff that sticks in your head. "The Shadow Knows" is a long intrumental dedicated to DJ Shadow. The string arrangements here keep tha album listenable when the beats or vocals cut out. Plus, it comes in a slide-out case which resembles a record lp case, and a cd-rom with Axelrod detailing how he created the album.

Average customer rating:

Anyone at all interested in David Axelrods work, simply must own this...!!!
If you're a David Axelrod Fan, you Need this.....(Despite the high price tag!!!)
The MUST HAVE of the Anthologies!

Antholgy 2
David Axelrod
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

1968 to 1970: An Axelrod Anthology
The Edge - David Axelrod at Capitol Records 1966-1970
Songs of Experience
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Heavy Axe

ASIN: B00006F2WO
Release Date: 2002-10-07

Tracks:

Tensity - Cannonball Adderley
Song Of Innocence - David Axelrod
Sick Rose - David Axelrod
Warning Pt II - David Axelrod
Introit/ Krystallnacht - David Axelrod
A Divine Image - David Axelrod
I Fall To Pieces (Instrumental) - David Axelrod
Good Day Sunshine - Ray Brown
The Edge - David McCallum
Theme From Che - Don Randi
Happy People - Cannonball Adderley
House Of Mirrors - David McCallum
You're Good Thing (Is About To End) - Lou Rawls
Dead End Street - Lou Rawls
Merlin's Prophecy - David Axelrod

Album Description

Subtitled 'Arrangements & Productions'. UK compilation for the Grammy award-winning producer for Capitol Records who helmed dozens of great jazz, funk & soul records during the 1960s & '70s. The followup to the highly successful David Axelrod 1968-1970 An Anthology. Includes one track from Axelrod's Big Country album (due 2003). Artists include Cannonball Adderley, Lou Rawls, Ray Brown & David McCallum. 15 tracks. Stateside. 2002.

Album Details

Axelrod Visionary Genius Has Been Recognized by "Old Skool" Artists as Well as Today's Hippest of Hip. His Songwriting is in a Class with the Likes of Jimmy Webb and Burt Bacharach. He was Sir George Martin's A&r Eyes and Ears in the USA in his Heyday, his Contributions Are Less Celebrated but Nonetheless Important. Modern Day Hip Hop Stars Sample Him Regularly, Like Dr. Dre, Lauryn Hill, Mos Def, the Beatnuts, Fat Joe, DJ Shadow and More.

Customer Reviews:

Anyone at all interested in David Axelrods work, simply must own this...!!!.......2005-09-07

Following an artists like David Axelrod, can never be quite so easy. Most of us, will have stumbled across his work, after there was a (fairly) recent renewed interest in his work, when various hip-hop/Trip-hop artists (most notably "Dr Dre" & "Dj Shadow") started sampling his work. And thus hearing his later work, which takes on more of a 'Fusion' sound, that was in parts elegantly uptempo, Clinical and soothingly laid-back. And then there is the other audience that with be familiar with his early 70's work, that took epic themes/ideas, and built spiritual suites of music around them, and focused around the more psychedelic sounds of the 70's, and orchestral orientated
work.

This Anthology concentrates more on the latter half, and the more fusion-based Jazz-funk sound, that would influence many of today's contemporary artists. And so (unlike the fantastic Vol.1) this is less about vocal harmonies and wistful meditations, with big band arrangements backing them up. And more about jazz fused with various elements that edge towards funky, bass-driven work. And one that makes the majority of this anthology a largely instrumental soul-jazz-funk selection of some of his most regarded work. So you have the epic pieces of work such as "Tensity" (that feature "Cannonball Adderley"), that is a 12 minute epic orchestration that is as carefully arranged rhythm tracks, as it is a refined, stylistically elegant swirl of music styles. "Songs of Innocence" is a nod to his early days with the sound more informed by early Rhythm & Blues, and 60's jazz, and although the production does sound a little dated in comparison, it's arguably still a strong track, that signposts the dramatic (almost overblown) sound of his early work.

A similar discreption could be said of "A Divine Image" which manages to not only be highly theatrical in its approach, but soaringly majestic, balancing a symphony of percussive elements with a compostion, that remains lush and varied. Most people that know Axelrods more recent work, will be familiar with "The Edge" (that was sampled, lock stock and barrel, by "Dr Dre"), and the almost theme soundtrack sounding style, showed Axelrod stepping away from the more cerebral, psychedelically dramatic tunes of his early days, and moving towards more musically dynamic, rhythm-orientated, montage of sounds, that would go on, to capture the imagination of many hip-hop producers. Axelrod even tries his hand at a Latin-fusion, with the remarkable "Theme from Che", that is a stunning tribute to the exuberant Latin-jazz of the fertile Cuban music scene. And is so remarkably different from everything else on this fantastic Anthology, that you wish that a few more tracks of this diversion, in music had been included.

Depending on where you stand with Axelrods music is possibly going to depend on your enjoyment of his Anthology's. if the early spacey-sounding, psychedelic work, by which he came to fame with, appeals. Then Anthology Vol.1, is most likely to appeal to you. Or if you know Axelrod mostly via the people that sampled him, or indeed require something more contemporary sounding, then obviously Vol.2 focuses more on his latter work. But to be perfectly honest Vol.2 is probably the more accessible of the two Anthology's, and sounds less dated than Vol.1. Although there is no question that both volumes are required purchases for fans, especially if you want to get the complete picture of Axelrods work, (you can have a reasonably complete picture by just buying both Anthology's). So, then you really should buy both Anthology's as they both beautifully capture and illustrate the genius that is the Axelrods work, and prove to be a fitting summary of his considerably accomplished work.

If you're a David Axelrod Fan, you Need this.....(Despite the high price tag!!!).......2005-09-06

Following an artists like David Axelrod, can never be quite so easy. Most of us, will have stumbled across his work, after there was a (fairly) recent renewed interest in his work, when various hip-hop/Trip-hop artists (most notably "Dr Dre" & "Dj Shadow") started sampling his work. And thus hearing his later work, which takes on more of a 'Fusion' sound, that was in parts elegantly uptempo, Clinical and soothingly laid-back. And then there is the other audience that with be familiar with his early 70's work, that took epic themes/ideas, and built spiritual suites of music around them, and focused around the more psychedelic sounds of the 70's, and orchestral orientated work.

This Anthology concentrates more on the latter half, and the more fusion-based Jazz-funk sound, that would influence many of today's contemporary artists. And so (unlike the fantastic Vol.1) this is less about vocal harmonies and wistful meditations, with big band arrangements backing them up. And more about jazz fused with various elements that edge towards funky, bass-driven work. And one that makes the majority of this anthology a largely instrumental soul-jazz-funk selection of some of his most regarded work. So you have the epic pieces of work such as "Tensity" (that feature "Cannonball Adderley"), that is a 12 minute epic orchestration that is as carefully arranged rhythm tracks, as it is a refined, stylistically elegant swirl of music styles. "Songs of Innocence" is a nod to his early days with the sound more informed by early Rhythm & Blues, and 60's jazz, and although the production does sound a little dated in comparison, it's arguably still a strong track, that signposts the dramatic (almost overblown) sound of his early work.

A similar discreption could be said of "A Divine Image" which manages to not only be highly theatrical in its approach, but soaringly majestic, balancing a symphony of percussive elements with a compostion, that remains lush and varied. Most people that know Axelrods more recent work, will be familiar with "The Edge" (that was sampled, lock stock and barrel, by "Dr Dre"), and the almost theme soundtrack sounding style, showed Axelrod stepping away from the more cerebral, psychedelically dramatic tunes of his early days, and moving towards more musically dynamic, rhythm-orientated, montage of sounds, that would go on, to capture the imagination of many hip-hop producers. Axelrod even tries his hand at a Latin-fusion, with the remarkable "Theme from Che", that is a stunning tribute to the exuberant Latin-jazz of the fertile Cuban music scene. And is so remarkably different from everything else on this fantastic Anthology, that you wish that a few more tracks of this diversion, in music had been included.

Depending on where you stand with Axelrods music is possibly going to depend on your enjoyment of his Anthology's. if the early spacey-sounding, psychedelic work, by which he came to fame with, appeals. Then Anthology Vol.1, is most likely to appeal to you. Or if you know Axelrod mostly via the people that sampled him, or indeed require something more contemporary sounding, then obviously Vol.2 focuses more on his latter work. But to be perfectly honest Vol.2 is probably the more accessible of the two Anthology's, and sounds less dated than Vol.1. Although there is no question that both volumes are required purchases for fans, especially if you want to get the complete picture of Axelrods work, (you can have a reasonably complete picture by just buying both Anthology's). So, then you really should buy both Anthology's as they both beautifully capture and illustrate the genius that is the Axelrods work, and prove to be a fitting summary of his considerably accomplished work.

The MUST HAVE of the Anthologies!.......2003-08-08

If you are wondering where to start, then this is it. David Axelrod Made Lou Rawls. But He is also in the shadow of CO-Conspirator Cannon Ball Adderly,(Which in the end you'll probably end up buying anyway and if not, at least get the Jimmy Witherspoon compilation for other great Axelrod production). The new genration of musicians will forever, heavily be in the Shadow of DAVID AXELROD, the greatest producer. The first Anthology is all right but even the liner notes ring untrue. This Anthology 2's tracklisting was re-edited by Axelrod and in the end you get all those songs you wondered about that are famously sampled by many of my favorite artists. (Dr. Dre is my no.1 Fave West Coast Producer and the irony is "The Edge" is on this album, my fave west coast producer sampling my all time favorite producer!) There is also a nice tasting to the still unreleased 2003 "Big Country" album. I'd start here and then you'll want to buy Anthology 1, but if you only want a tasting and a great one worth every penny, this is the bite to take!

Average customer rating:

Requiem
IT'S A REQUIEM-
Awful

Requiem: The Holocaust
David Axelrod
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music
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Antholgy 2
The Edge - David Axelrod at Capitol Records 1966-1970
1968 to 1970: An Axelrod Anthology

ASIN: B000008D29
Release Date: 1993-11-02

Tracks:

Introit/Krystallnacht
Kyrie/Trains
Sanctus/Auschwitz
Does Irae/Gas Chambers

Customer Reviews:

Requiem.......2007-05-17

I can only echoe M Brust's review: why wouldn't a requiem to an event as morose as the holocaust be disturbing? Axelrod eschews his more popular stylistic elements of percussion and horns on this album to craft a 4-song epic that's vaguely reminiscent of the emotions that karlheinz stockhausen would induce: somberness, estrangeness, and dystopia.

IT'S A REQUIEM-.......2006-01-07

No one would write a requiem on this subject for fun. Spielberg didn't film "Schindler's List" for fun or money. Requiems, ideally, are done from a deep human sense of sorrow,pain, remorse,anger. The Holocaust raises the fear that it somehow can happen again, if we, as a people, choose to forget. Axelrod shows great courage in tackling this topic. As ,always, his approach is unique and deeply personal. This confirms again, that as an artist, his heart is his only guide.
The music conjures up ghosts--sublimely.

Awful.......2005-02-18

I was looking for a sad representation in music of the Holocaust. This was dreadful with screechy stuff. I guess if it was supposed to be disturbing, it is.

Average customer rating:

The Axelrod Chronicles
David Axelrod
Manufacturer: Fantasy
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Baroque Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

Jazz Funk | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music
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The Edge - David Axelrod at Capitol Records 1966-1970
Songs of Experience

ASIN: B00004TBWY
Release Date: 2000-08-08

Tracks:

Get Up Off Your Knees
Cast Your Fate To The Wind
You're So Vain
My Family
Mucho Chupar
Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing
It Ain't For You
Everything Counts
Cantaro - Gene Ammons
Solitaro - Gene Ammons
Gonna Give Lovin' A Try - 'Big Man'
Stayin' Place - 'Big Man'
Quit It - Nat Adderly
Bach - Hampton Hawes
Sierra Morena - Hampton Hawes
Goodbye, So Long - Funk, Inc.

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