Inside

Inside

ASIN: B00000I8TH

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
It's rare that saxophonist David Sanborn gets a notion to do something more adventurous than sitting in with the Letterman show's band. As a king of the smooth-jazz world, why should he? Inside, however, does take a couple of chances, though nothing on the order of 1991's Another Hand. Cassandra Wilson sits in for a dry reading of Aretha's "Day Dreaming" that suggests she's best in slightly more daring company; this take doesn't improve on either the original or on Mary J. Blige's recent cover. (For a revelatory Wilson cameo, check out her version of Muddy Waters's "Country Girl" on Javon Jackson's A Look Within.) Likewise, Sting ("Ain't No Sunshine") and perennial nonentities Lalah Hathaway and Eric Benet ("When I'm with You") bring little to their guest-vocal turns. As for the seven instrumental cuts, Sanborn and producer Marcus Miller rarely rise above midtempo mush. --Rickey Wright

From Jazziz
David Sanborn feels he owes some of his latest album's success to a new recording process: doing it at home. The alto saxophonist recorded the majority of Inside at his New York City loft. "It allowed me a certain amount of freedom," Sanborn says. "I could record when I felt like it, and not have to be rushed about the whole process. I've learned as a musician, you have to kind of ambush yourself psychologically - trick yourself into saying, 'This is just a demo.' " The results are what Sanborn calls the most personal album of his career.

Inside,David Sanborn,Elektra / Wea,Crossover Jazz,Jazz,Jazz Music,Pop,Smooth Jazz,Soul-Jazz

Paradise Lost
Average customer rating:

Waiting for Heaven &Hell to battle never happened

Paradise isn't lost on this album.

Fantastic 21st-Century Neoclassical Metal

Unbelievable

Great Expectations?!

Paradise Lost
Symphony X
Manufacturer: inside out
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000I8ON6Q
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Tracks:

Oculus Ex Inferni
Set The World On Fire (The Lie Of Lies)
Domination
The Serpentís Kiss
Paradise Lost
Eve Of Seduction
The Walls Of Babylon
Seven
The Sacrifice
Revelation (Divus Pennae Ex Tragoedia)

Album Description

The masters of Symphonic Power Metal are back!

Symphony X are recognized by-and-large as one the most important acts in the worldwide metal scene. After the release of their hugely successful CD, The Odyssey - and after nearly five years - Michael Romeo and his band have returned with what is already being praised as their best work to date. Paradise Lost has all the trademarks that have come to be associated with Symphony X: Incredibly intricate and powerful, yet-melodic compositions that showcase every member's unrivaled technical skill as instrumentalists. However, once again it must be said that the spotlight is squarely on the ferocious vocal force of singer Russell Allen and the almost inhuman pyrotechnics of guitarist Michael Romeo.

The North American version of Paradise Lost features a fantastic foldout and diecut digipack that was designed by Warren Flanagan, who has done art-direction for major motion picture blockbusters such as I Robot, X-Men and Blade.

This is thee guitar release of the summer!

Customer Reviews:

Waiting for Heaven &Hell to battle never happened.......2007-07-09

Truthfully,I was waiting for a lot more in SX's cd.In the following,I will try to tell why I feel this is lacking in creativity,drive and progressiveness.

First of all,the wait for the new cd,to fans,seemed eternal.When it was finally released,the fans expected something spectacular,what we got was something that lacked creativity. The story-line,for one is patchy,when cross-efferenced to Milton's epic novel.That's alright,but at least,give the fans something to think about and sink their teeth into.The lyrics are similar to an abridged version of a literary masterpiece.

Musically,the boys still have their chops but the song writing needed to be distributed fairly.It's basically a Allen/Romeo concept,Pinella had nothing to do with it,he's mixed out real good.That's what made The Oddessy and V,Mythology Suite great,the mixture of all writers.Allen's phrasing is too cliché,instead of flirting with other patterns,he sticks to Wings of Divine Tragedy and even totally disgusts me when in the should be apex song, Paradise lost,there is a point where he sings something like Michael Bolton.The raspiness is also annoying in some parts.The whole originality of it it lost.

Progressively,it lacks when compared to their others.It's too commercial,that's what happens when success creeps up the door,it's happened to the best.The cd is not bad,it's just not great.In a summer,when progressive music could have had 4 great releases: Dream Theater,Kamelot,Rush and Symphony X,only Rush's Snakes and Arrows proves to be the best.
Now,as for the designer of the cd packaging ,they should be slapped with a dirty ,stinky salmon fish and hung upside down.The quality of the packaging is low budget and low imagination........ouch,this review hurts me as well !!!!!!!

Remember,small minds,this review is simply my opinion based on my expectations of a great progressive group.

Paradise isn't lost on this album........2007-07-09

Symphony X has been a big part of the progressive metal movement. While not as popular as other bands in the genre, like Dream Theater, Opeth, Therion, Symphony X has still been able to make a name for themselves with their neo-classical style of playing, the superb vocals of Russell Allen, and the mesmerizing guitar work of Michael Romeo.

Symphony X has released a concept album based on the classic poem by John Milton, Paradise Lost. The album is being hyped as one of the darkest and edgiest albums Symphony X has ever made.

"Oculus Ex Inferni"
This song is an instrumental that sets the album's mood and tenor for the rest of the album. The instrumental successfully builds tension as the listener hears an epic choir.

"Set the World on Fire!"
This song is blazing fast, with precise drumming and shredding riffs and keyboards. The chorus is good. The song dives into a brilliant unison solo between Romeo and Pinnella before ending with a tremendous riff.

"Domination"
This song starts off with a bass solo before the whole band joins in. The sound continues in the style of the last track. Russell Allen gets a special mention in this track as he almost sounds crazed in a few sections of this song, with his growling vocals really taking form. The middle section of "Domination" is highlighted by another spectacular Romeo solo and some great keyboard work by Pinnella.

"Serpent's Kiss"
This song starts off a bit slow, the opening riff is slow and straight ahead. The song does pick up speed. The song, while not having the same impact as the last two tracks, is a solid track that leads into the first ballad of the album.

"Paradise Lost"
This song is the first of two ballads that help to show the softer side of Symphony X. "Paradise Lost" starts off with superb piano and acoustic guitar. The song picks up and the piano and acoustic guitar drive the melody throughout the track. Russell Allen is finally able to really sing. Mention should be made to Pinnella. While his influences on the past couple of songs haven't been as strong as in the past, he is still able to stand out with his keyboard playing.

"Eve of Seduction"
This song brings back the frantic pace from the first half of the album. Romeo has an opening solo that would make any other metal guitarist proud. The song is fast, yet brings some groove and melody to the chorus by slowing the track down a bit. Romeo pulls out one of his craziest solos on the album so far and that helps to make the track stand on the album.

"The Walls of Babylon"
This song is over eight minutes long and is the first of three epic tracks. The song is so epic that the vocals don't even come in until the second half of the song! A choir of voices is used in the first half, which helps to make the track sound very creepy. The instrumental section isn't fast, but it is very technical, with some good riff changes and bass playing. The second half is not as spectacular as the first half, but the guitar work is solid and the vocals are full of power and rage.

"Seven"
This song which is the 8th track, is the second epic, at a bit over seven minutes. The song is one of the heaviest on the album, and also has the best interlude on the album, which goes on for over two minutes. The highlight of this interlude is two Romeo solos, the return of the creepy choir, and a superb bass section.

"The Sacrifice"
This song is the second ballad and is 1 heck of a ballad. Piano and acoustic guitars are the flavor of the song. However, the acoustic guitars are more of a stand out in this track than "Paradise Lost." Allen puts in his best vocal performance of the album with an emotional performance. Romeo even gets a chance to show off his acoustic skills at the end of the track, when he plays a forty second solo with the an acoustic guitar. I feel this ballad is much better than the title track, but both are very good and short enough to not be repetitive.

"Revelations (Divus Pennae Ex Tragoedia)"
This song is the last epic track, and the longest track on the album, clocking in nearly the nine and a half minute mark. Starting with an epic sounding guitar introduction, the track shows off the band's progressive nature. Romeo plays a fast riff while Pinnella plays a piano in the background. Eventually, Allen's vocals come in and the song picks up in intensity, but the piano is continued to be played in the background. The song changes pace about two minutes in, slowing down to let the band show off their technical playing ability. The interlude comes out of nowhere, with keyboards taking over. Pinnella keyboard skills are in full form in the interlude, as he gets the chance to let loose on the piano and keyboard. Romeo, of course, gets in a great solo before the band slows down yet again. The pace picks up for its exceptional conclusion, where a lonely acoustic guitar and piano fade out as a choir sings of the apocalypse, which is a good end to Paradise Lost.

I feel this album is one of the strongest releases in 2007. The darker music makes for some interesting riffs and song ideas. While some songs don't stand out as much as others, and there is no defining epic track. Paradise Lost still stands out in the progressive metal field.

Fantastic 21st-Century Neoclassical Metal.......2007-07-08

Symphony X have single-handedly reinvented and re-energized a genre first pioneered by Yngwie Malmsteen, and brought neoclassical-style metal into a new generation. Others have covered similiar ground, but no where near as effectively and confidently, while adding progressive elements as well as a heavier, more modern style and edge.

"Paradise Lost" is a guitar-lover's dream, as guitar guru Michael Romeo turns this album into an absolute riff-fest; his ultra-heavy, complex and odd-metered riffs and fills are quite exhilarating, and this album is full of amazing solos and harmonized instrumental sections that add a sense of urgency and intesity to the entire disc.

There is no weak link in the band whatsoever, as singer Russell Allen delivers dynamic, powerful vocals, and the atmospheric and melodic keyboards are interlaced with Romeo's guitar work seamlessly, giving the album an epic, fantastic feel. Add superb and creative packaging and artwork and you have one of the best metal albums in years, yet alone in a year of other great metal releases. Well worth the wait....I can't keep this out of my CD player. Highest recommendation for any metal fan.

Unbelievable.......2007-07-07

First off, I am not going to say this cd is better than the Odyssey, TDWOT, or V because the fact is that all of those cds are incredible. Is this cd on par with those, absolutely. This cd is amazing. Unbelievable musicianship paired with incredible songwriting. Michael Romeo turns in an inhuman performance on the guitar with mindboggling rhythm work and leads that will make your head spin. The other musicians provide virtuoso performances as well, but the guitar is up front on this one. Michael Pinnela's keys though complement this one more so than on the Odyssey. He has some of his best leads and tradeoffs to date on a few of these tracks.
I will now address a few ridiculous statements by some other reviewers (notice I did not call them fans of this band because if you give this cd anything less than 4 stars; you are either deaf or accidently ordered this instead of a Bonnie Raitt cd). One reviewer would have you to believe that Symphony X is now prog's Morbid Angel or Deicide. This cd is not Satanic. It is a darker themed cd that tells stories. If that offends you, then go buy a Stryper cd. The other criticism I read is over vocals. Apparently, that person didn't listen to the cd either. There are no "death metal" vocals on this cd. Russell Allen provides quite a bit of a more aggressive tone, but he also uses his higher tone on the lighter songs. If anything, he shows diversity that we have not seen before. I count that as a plus. As a matter of fact, there is a lot of diversity on this cd that we have not seen before which makes the negative reviews on this one so puzzling to me. In addition to still getting the orchestration, different time changes, symphonic choruses and everything that makes Symphony X; we also get more bass and drum solos, even an acoustic, classical style solo. What more do you want from this band? If V or the Odyssey are so unattainable, then go listen to those cds. I will enjoy the newest masterpiece by the band.

In summary, this cd is amazing. If you listen to the naysayers, you will miss out on the best metal release of the year from the best metal band around period. It took them 5 years to put it together, and the results show despite what some have written. Thank you Symphony X. I hope to see you on tour.

Great Expectations?!.......2007-07-07

Let's establish a few points here right off the bat so there will be no disillusionment. Point one: Symphony X is a progressive power metal band. (Yes boys and girls....that's three discriptive words there) Point two: It's taken SymX almost 10 years to get enough recognition from the critics to allow for monsterous touring schedules here in the US as well as abroad. That annonimity left them with much more time on their hands to write new material and produce new CD's. So it took them five years.....these have been some busy boys. Just take the time to look at all the stuff they've been involved with in that time period.
That being said......Paradise Lost is a mind blowing work of art that incorporates all the qualities that fans have come to love about SymX with some new twists to boot. If you want every song to sound like "Communion" off the V album.....then go buy an Allen Parsen's Project CD. If you only want songs like "The Accoldade"...then go pull out your old Kansas CD's and have a blast from the past. These boys are cutting-edge and raising the bar for all metal bands who dare to call themselves "prog". Paradise Lost is definitely not for the faint hearted, it's full of power, dark themes, beautiful melodies, and mind-blowing musicianship. Russell Allen has more voices than Rich Little and uses them effectively on each and every song. If you don't like a little grit and growl from a vocalist....go buy Clay Akin's CD. I read the reviews on this CD from so-called fans of SymX and am appaled at how much they want to squeeze them into a box that fits their taste. The thing I ALWAYS love about these guys is that they are fresh, creative and never repeat themselves. Sure it was a shock to the senses when I first hear Paradise Lost.....but it was a shock to the senses on every prior SymX CD as well. That's the thrill....that's what made me a fan in the first place. If you like your music over the top, these guys wrote this CD just for you. If you like your music predictable and redundant as if stamped out of a mold, then don't waste your money. (most metal acts have been waisting your money for years) This is a masterpiece of progressive power metal (damn, there's those three little words again) that proves that Symphony X is truely the premier metal act on the whole globe. Just an opinion.......

Average customer rating:

Buy this ASAP!
This First Release Shines
Inside Wants Out - John Mayer
Raw Talent At Its Best
Good to see where he came from

Inside Wants Out
John Mayer
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Room for Squares
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ASIN: B00006JIC6
Release Date: 2002-09-17

Tracks:

Back To You
No Such Thing
My Stupid Mouth
Neon
Victoria
Love Soon
Comfortable
Quiet

Customer Reviews:

Buy this ASAP!.......2007-03-30

This album is amazing and everyone needs to have it. John Mayer is fricken awesome.

This First Release Shines.......2007-03-16

I recently became a John Mayer fan after purchasing "Continuum" so, naturally, I had to check out his earlier releases. I purchased "Room for Squares" next and realized I had heard "No Such Thing" before and just didn't realize who the artist was behind the music. But my favorites turned out to be "Neon", "83", and "City Love". I then purchased "Heavier Things" and jumped back to the present to purchase "The Village Sessions". The latter really shows off John's wonderful acoustic ability; so when I heard about "Inside Wants Out" showcasing his earlier acoustic works, I had to get it. As a first, independent effort, this CD really shines. Although his vocals aren't as polished as in later efforts, the music and lyrics are very engaging. There is the feel that John is playing just for you while sitting on a porch step and watching that willow tree in the yard sway on a warm summer night. My favorites are "Victoria", "Neon", and "Quiet"; but every song is a nice little treat. As another reviewer noted, "My Stupid Mouth" comes off much better than on "Room for Squares"; and "Neon" is just a great song so it sounds equally good acoustically as it does with backing instrumentals. Like that quiet little movie that is often called a 'sleeper' hit, that's how I would describe "Inside Wants Out". It's definitely a 'must have' for any Mayer fan who wants to dig deeper into John's musical roots.

Inside Wants Out - John Mayer.......2007-03-09

First of his albums. Comfortable is amazing. Great cd...

Raw Talent At Its Best.......2007-02-17

I bought this after reading the Amazon reviews, and couldn't be happier with the album.

My respect for Mayer really hit its peak with Continuum, but I've since ordered Inside Wants Out, Any Given Thursday and the Try! John Mayer Trio concert CDs, due to a new insatiable appetite for more.

This early release showcases his formidable skills in all its raw glory. Acoustic albums are always the most challenging, with little backup to camouflage flaws, exposing the artiste's vocal and instrumental gifts ( or lack thereof ) to their fullest.

While his studio recordings are pretty slick -- with Mayer sounding a little kiddish, if you ask me -- this totally-stripped-bare version is a huge improvement. The voice is more mellow and adult, the deliveries significantly more emotionally nuanced, the guitar solos absolutely divine.

Songs not included in his more commercial offerings -- Victoria, Love Soon, Quiet -- are introspective and haunting, while acoustic renditions of My Stupid Mouth and Neon got me hitting the repeat button time and time again.

A definite must have whether you're a Mayer fan or not.

Good to see where he came from.......2007-01-17

Even though this CD is not that long and has several songs release on his debut album, this is a must have for all fans to see the progression of this truly talented musician.

Average customer rating:

Pretty good cd, not my favorite, but liked it.
Better than the Arctic Monkeys
Best New Brit Album - The Past Decade
the Kooks are awesome
power popfest

Inside In/Inside Out
Kooks
Manufacturer: Astralwerks
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000H7JDHM
Release Date: 2006-10-03

Tracks:

Seaside
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Ooh La
You Don't Love Me
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Time Awaits
Got No Love
Do You Love Me Still?

Customer Reviews:

Pretty good cd, not my favorite, but liked it........2007-06-14

I would buy this again, its fun for a change every now and again but not an everyday cd.

Better than the Arctic Monkeys.......2007-06-09

I heard "She Moves in Her Own Way" on the radio one day and had to find out who sang it. Already owned the Arctic Monkeys CD and heard the Kooks compared to them, so I gave it a shot and ordered the CD instead of downloading one song. I was not disappointed. I think the whole CD is more vibrant, less pompous and a lot more fun to listen to than Arctic Monkeys -- which I also did like. "Naive" is a standout, and I even like the more throwaway songs like "Seaside." One of the best CDs I've bought in the past year.

Best New Brit Album - The Past Decade.......2007-03-10

These guys are amazing. There are literally 10 solid tracks on this disc. A friend of mine told me NOT to buy the CD but to simply pay for each song that I liked on iTunes or another Music Service.

After getting my order from Amazon, I quickly told him he was crazy. When you buy just a few songs you don't get the cover with the lyrics and info about the band. Sorry. I have an MP3 player but will still buy great music on CD, especially if it's a band like the Kooks. Good stuff. And this was their debut album - can't wait to see what they do for an encore.

the Kooks are awesome.......2007-03-08

I really enjoy this album. The songs are catchy and i love the british accents...my personal favorite song is Naive. Check the Kooks out!

power popfest.......2007-03-06

choosen as the eleventh best album of 2006 by "Q" magazine, this is a fine gathering of fifteen power pop tracks. tuneful melodies performed with energy and joy, this is an all around winner for pop-rock lovers. supergrass fans in particular should find much to appeal to their sensiblities here. very well done stuff.

Average customer rating:

Powerful
Better than ever
The Best Album I Never Heard in 2006!
One of my favorite bands
My Favorite Album Ever

The Devil And God Are Raging Inside Me
Brand New
Manufacturer: Interscope Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000JCETAG
Release Date: 2006-11-21

Tracks:

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Millstone
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You Won't Know
Welcome To Bangkok
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Amazon.com

Brand New have specialized in pain ever since the pop-punk emo-rage of their 2001 debut release Your Favorite Weapon. But they've outdone themselves on The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me. If the songs on Weapon were paper cuts, the ones here are gaping chainsaw wounds, full of seismic, howling agony. The moody rumbles of 2003's Deja Entendu were pointing here, but this is something else, with Mogwai-level dynamic range and tracks that careen from introspection to fury and back again. Lyrically, lead singer Jesse Lacey's words remain excruciating and harrowing things, but that's nothing new. It's the music propping them up which gives this effort such depth and punch. "Degausser" starts so innocently, then uses a bridge augmented with a bitter children's chorus straight out of The Wall as a lead in to Lacey's bitter refrain of "I'll never say anything right." Then there's the nearly 8-minute "Limousine (MS Rebridge)," epic, and epically sad, constantly threatening to descend into pure cacophony (and eventually succeeding). Repeated listens will tune your ear to the band's still-intact pop sense (especially on "Not the Sun" and "The Archers Bows Have Broken"), which keeps the record lively and unpredictable, and away from becoming a depressing, head-in-the-oven mope. Brand New went through three years of intense recording sessions to make it happen, but it was worth the effort. --Matthew Cooke

Customer Reviews:

Powerful.......2007-07-04

This album takes off in a different direction from Deja Entandu, Its full of emotion and power like their last album but with more screaming. An awesome album, Brand New continues to refine their sound and have come a long way from Your Favorite Weapon

Better than ever.......2007-05-28

I've been a Brand New fan for a long time, and this album has only increased my love for such an innovative, talented band. Many bands change their styles to please more people to become more famous, but Brand New has not done this. Instead, they continue to grow in their own style and grow in popularity anyway. This album includes Jesse's thought-provoking lyrics, awesome guitar parts, and meaningful melodies and harmonies fans have come to expect. This is the best album I have ever heard, and I cannot stop listening to it. They have grown so much, especially in diversity of their songs. This album is perfect in every way! BUY IT!

The Best Album I Never Heard in 2006!.......2007-05-16

The year 2006 had come to a close and I had not heard this album. Usually at the end of every year I compile a list of the Top20 albums I've heard in the year. I missed one and I cannot forgive myself! This albums continues through and through with the main theme, "good vs. evil" and it works on almost every track. It is one of the albums I just can't put too far away from my cdplayer. I've loaded up some songs on my iPod, including the 2007 single, "Jesus Christ". "Brand New" was problably the most under-rated artiste of 2006.

One of my favorite bands.......2007-05-09

I have both of their best albums and I listen to them both front to back weekly, they are both always found in my disc-changer in my truck. Track 3 is my favorite on this Album.

My Favorite Album Ever.......2007-05-05

All in all, a genius, unique, and great album.
1. Sowing Season - Great song, great guitar riff, and it just punches you right in the face...in a good way. Yeah.
2. Millstone - Awesome sounding vocal harmony at the beginning. Cool chorus, especially the cool backup vocal track. A very nifty drum tom outro.
3. Jesus Christ - Jesus Christ I love this song. The ending gives me a chill every time, the way Jesse sing/screams that is amazing. I don't like screaming, but Jesse makes it sound like a mixture of singing and screaming and I love it love it love it. It was definitely my favorite when I first heard the CD, though not any more, read on.
4. Degausser - This song gives you a crazy feeling...it's very dark sounding in my opinion, and the first time the ensemble of Jesses sang "Take apart your head" it kind of startled me. Great song though, awesome awesome awesome outro...lyrically and musically.
5. Limousine - I didn't like this one at first, but it grew on me very much. Starts out very quiet and then kicks into crunchy sounding vocals (only way I can think to describe it). And my favorite part - the resolution from the crunchiness (which isn't bad, by the way..just crunchy) to the beautiful cleanness. When it switches it gives me chills. I also thought the end where he repeats "I love you so much..etc." many many times was too long...but then I listened some more and realized it was extremely cool, because it's a slow slow slow crescendo that you hardly notice. Great song.
6. You Won't Know - Ah I love it. Starts with an extremely quiet intro. Then BOOM...another punch in the face with those scream/sing vocals. My god, I love this song. Such energy and so great great great sounding.
7. Welcome to Bangkok - This one is an instrumental. It's pretty cool, I guess...but I usually skip it. It's cool though, cool guitar work. I saw them live recently on tour with 2 other bands, and both bands came out for this song and were just hitting cymbals, drums, and throwing drums. It was very cool seeing 14 people on stage playing drums and guitars...so basically it's awesome live, but just slightly above average on the album
8. Not The Sun - Tied with You Won't Know for my favorite song on the album. So very cool. From the catchy bassline to the (old)Michael Jackson-like vocals in the verse to the vocal slides in the chorus, it just excels so much. I think my favorite thing about the song is the use of the snare drum in it. I can't explain that though...just know that it's great. Great lyrics too, as is the case with just about every Brand New song. So clever and so meaningful.
9. Luca - The first half or so of this song is acoustic, where Jesse shows us his ability to jump pitches beautifully. I would tell you the highlight of the song, but I feel like I'd be spoiling it, so I won't. Listen to it loud though, but don't try to go to sleep to it, trust me.
10. Untitled - I can't say I understand the point of putting this song on the CD to be honest. It's instrumental, and has the same average guitar part through the whole thing. I assume the weird talking in the background has some kind of meaning, but I've yet to figure it out. I skip it, sorry Brand New.
11. The Archers' Bows Are Broken - Back to the greatness. Not much to say about this one other than that it's quite catchy, and quite good. I absolutely love the lyrics as well.
12. Handcuffs - I'm pretty undecided on this one. Musically, I like it...but I can't seem to get past the lyrics. It's not that they're bad, they just sound wrong to me. Hard to explain. But I've gotten used to it and now sing along.
13. Luca (Acoustic) - Some of the versions of the CD come with this song. It's an acoustic version of Luca. Some different lyrics, and no electric guitars or drums throughout most of the song. Enjoyable, of course, though I prefer the regular version.

This is my favorite album ever. While there are some albums where I enjoy every song on the album and skip none, this one has a few skip-worthy ones...yet somehow it hits me as the best album I've ever heard. Get it, trust me. Don't expect Deja Entendu and DEFINITELY don't expect Your Favorite Weapon. I love both, and I love this one. This band evolves so fast, it's ridiculous. They go from good to great to amazing and they put on the best live show I've seen.

Average customer rating:

Planet X raises the bar
How Could This Band Get Any Better!
My kind of Planet, thank you Virgil !
Their Best Yet
Amazing

Quantum
Planet X
Manufacturer: Inside Out U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Moe's Town
Fear of a Blank Planet
Systematic Chaos
Systematic Chaos
Paradise Lost

ASIN: B000P46QIG
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

Alien Hip Hop
Desert Girl
Matrix Gate
The Thinking Stone
Space Foam
Poland
Snuff
Kingdom Of Dreams
Quantum Factor

Album Description

Self-founded band of Derek Sherinian (Billy Idol, former Dream Theater) from 1999, describe themselves as "the sickest instrumental band in the world, ...a band that played so fiercely, it would strike fear in the hearts of other musicians when they heard us". Their latest piece of work is such a didactic play. It uniquely demonstrates what happens when a number of exceptional musicians team up. An incredibly fast-pacing roller coaster ride. The perfect fusion of rock and metal. Featuring guest appearances by Allan Holdsworth (Soft Machine, UK, Gong), Brett Garsed (John Farnham) and Rufus Philpot (Al Di Meola).

Customer Reviews:

Planet X raises the bar.......2007-07-05

Theres not enough cliches to describe the level of depth and virtuosity that this band has attained. Virgil gets the MVP award in my book. His playing is simply beyond everyone else on a drumkit. His compositions are futuristic and mind bending, both literally and metaphorically. Every player in the band is at the top of his game, Quantum will be THE CD that will make waves in the prog/metal universe this year.

How Could This Band Get Any Better!.......2007-07-02

Definately the best Planet X album so far. Absolutely Stunning! Put on your headphones and get ready to travel the Universe! Derek Sherinian is the best keyboard player on Earth. The only drawback to this record is that the Great Allan Holdsworth should have had alot more playing time.

My kind of Planet, thank you Virgil !.......2007-06-18

Many thanks to Planet X for another ride in their universe of very different and interesting music. This album is a breath of fresh air. I own all of PX albums and I follow them since their first output "Universe". I find this as one of the most focused efforts of theirs. First of all I prefer Garsed to Macalpine on the guitar chair. I think Brett fits better this kind of "alien" music even if Tony played very well on the other releases from the band. Rumors are that for the next chapter the band will have Greg Howe on board. I hope it could be true because Greg is probably the biggest gun in these territories. Holdsworth plays here just a couple of solos, they are nice but don't change the overall feel of the music ... Brett contributes a lot more. What you can find here are a lot of dispair times at the point that sometimes you lose the guys. It is very funny and interesting. If you are a musician you have a lot to think about here rhytmically. If you are not, don't worry because the music is really entertaining if you love this style (metal plus fusion I may say). I really appreciate Virgil Donati's drumming. Sometimes I find myself focusing on his playing and wow, I have to say that he's incredible. I hope this band will release more albums in this area ... I think it is something new and that this style has the potentials to be something even more interesting in the future. But this Quantum is already a very nice album that I find myself listening over and over. Even better than Moonbabies if you want. Bravo to the guys, Brett and Virgil in particular.

Their Best Yet.......2007-06-13

This is by far Planet X's best effort to date.
Worth the wait since the last release, Derek Sherinian, Virgil Donati and guests do an unbelievable job.
Alan Holdsworth, Rufus Philpot and Brett Garsed do outstanding work on guitar, while keyboardist Sherinian and drummer Donati give their usual great performances.
This is one of the year's best in progressive rock so far.

Amazing.......2007-06-11

Easily the best from Planet X yet. If you love technical progressive rock, this is about as good as it gets.

Average customer rating:

Marvelous
music
Interesting
Should have won an Academy Award!!!
Just Plain Fun

Everything Is Illuminated

Manufacturer: Tvt
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Everything Is Illuminated
How It Ends
Everything Is Illuminated: A Novel
East Infection
Balkan Beat Box

ASIN: B000AYEIMW
Release Date: 2005-09-06

Tracks:

Paul Cantelon--Odessa Medley
Leningrad--Zvezda Rok-N-Rolla
Csokolom--Amari Szi Amari
Leningrad--Dikiy Muzhchina
Paul Cantelon--Prologue/Babushka
Paul Cantelon--Little Jonathan/The Wall
Gogol Bordello--Bublitschki
The Con Artists feat. Peter Miser Ya-takoy
Leningrad--Malen'kiy Mal'chik
Tin Hat Trio--Fear of the South
Paul Cantelon--River Of Collections
Paul Cantelon--Tank Graveyard/Valse de Suzana/Dee-yed
Paul Cantelon--Sunflowers
Paul Cantelon--War Is Love/eta-Ya
Paul Cantelon--Trachimbrod/Ressurection/Requiem
Paul Cantelon--Inside-Out
Gogol Bordello Start Wearing Purple

Album Description

"Everything Is Illuminated" is the directorial debut of actor Liev Schrieber and an adaptation of Jonathan Safran Foer's best-selling novel. A blend of high comedy and great tragedy, the film tells the story of a young American man, played by Elijah Wood (The Lord of The Rings trilogy), who journeys to the Ukraine to find the woman whom he believes saved his grandfather from the Nazis all those years ago.

The soundtrack features two new songs from high energy New York City based gypsy punks Gogol Bordello, including one track not on their current cd. (Note: Gogol Bordello's lead singer plays a role in "Everything Is Illuminated"). Also included are gypsy folk songs from Russia and the Ukraine by Leningrad, Arkadie Severmie, Csokolom and Tin Hat Trio. And finally, Paul Cantelon's ethnic score ties together this nicely cohesive soundtrack.

Customer Reviews:

Marvelous.......2007-06-13

This is an amazing soundtrack that highlights the two prevalent emotions in the film: hilarity and tragedy. Paul Cantelon deftly mixes an Eastern European feel with pure, gorgeous soundtrack music. Along for the ride are songs by genuinely fun and original bands. I never get tired of it. Sometimes, indeed, there are tracks I can't listen to simply because they're too sad - but then I switch to the upbeat, funny tunes, which always manage to entertain.

1. Odessa Medley: 9/10 - Enjoyable, with fun instruments. It builds up into an intricate array of instruments and melodies, and really picks up at the end, tempting you to let it sweep you along into the movie's crazy world. A great overture to the movie.
2. Leningrad, Zvezda Rok-N-Rolla: 8/10 - Oh, the drama! Leningrad is a Russian band. All of their songs on this album are crazy and fun and fit the craziness of the movie to a T. The horns are wonderful.
3. Csokolom, Amari Szi Amari: 10/10 - Superbly catchy, with that quirky, old feel dominant in the film, this song is a laidback sort of fun. It's the only song on the album not in Ukrainian, Russian, or English: it's Hungarian. This doesn't matter, however, because it fits so perfectly with the feel of the movie.
4. Leningrad, Dikiy Muzhchina: 10/10 - I LOVE this song. It's one my favorites here. The title means "Wild Man" in Russian, and it is definitely a very wild and (dare I say it again?) fun song. The lyrics really are just plain fun to sing along to, even if you don't speak Russian. You can practically feel the energy. In fact, I just now started to sing to it again...
5. Prologue/Babushka: 9.5/10 - This is where a darker mood begins to edge in. It sinks into a waltz that is more bittersweet than tragic, and then slows down to make way for a sweeping, haunting tune. Lovely.
6. Little Jonathan/The Wall: 9/10 - Playful, but once more in a bittersweet sort of way. After awhile it switches gears, swooshing up with energy, befores changing back to that haunting feeling of "Babushka" that I like to think of as simply The Past.
7. Gogol Bordello, Bublitschki: 8/10 - Time for some fun again. This instrumental piece by an immensely talented band (actually, Eugene Hutz, who plays Alex, is the lead singer of Gogol Bordello) mixes an irresistible beat with a traditional Slavic sound.
8. The Con Artists, Peter Miser, Ya-takoy: 9/10 - This definitely brings one back to the silliness of Alex in the beginning of the film. With snippets of his unbelievably hilarious dialogue and an urban beat going in the background, you'll be sucked right in.
9. Leningrad, Malen'kiy Mal'chik: 9/10 - Great fun! Leningrad never fails to entertain with this lazy collection of horns and vocals.
10. Tin Hat Trio, Fear of the South: 8/10 - Here's a piece to relax to. It's lighthearted and fresh.
11.Paul Cantelon, River of Collections: 9/10 - With breathy strings, "River of Collections" urges you quietly but with instistence along the river of The Past.
12. Paul Cantelon, Tank Graveyard/Valse de Suzana/Dee-yed: 9.5/10 - Here is the tragedy I've been referring to. It's sad. Almost unbearably so. It sweeps you up in the conflict of the characters, teasing you with peaks at the truth before fading back into the darkness.
13. Paul Cantelon, Sunflowers: 10/10 - Ukrainian, I believe. Haunting, with strong vocals that cast a spell.
14. Paul Cantelon, War Is Love/eta-Ya: 9.5/10 - It begins with lazy simplicity, but toward the end bursts into a powerful and urgent message.
15. Paul Cantelon, Trachimbrod/Ressurection/Requiem: 10/10 - Simply beautiful. About halfway through, the urgency of the previous tracks finally builds up for the climax, whooshing over you bitterly, sadly, and with almost a sense of determination. Again, it's tragic. You don't hear the lightheartedness of previous tracks, but the slight nudging of a past that doesn't want to haunt: it just wants to resolve itself. To exist.
16. Paul Cantelon, Inside-Out: 10/10 - And it does resolve itself. Here is another bittersweet piece. But this time, it carries a touch of enlightenment (illumination?) with it.
17. Gogol Bordello, Start Wearing Purple: 10/10 - This was the absolutely most perfect song the movie could have ended with. It switches the film seamlessly back into that feel of silly hilarity, single-handedly managing to leave the audience uplifted - a sore necessity for such a partly bleak film!

Overall, one of my favorite soundtracks out there. Whether you've seen the (remarkable) movie or not, get this! It is gorgeous, beautiful, fantastic, powerful, uplifting, and itching to tell you something you've known all your life but just can't quite grasp. In short, a brilliant piece of work.

music.......2007-06-02

does anyone know who sings the last song that plays on the movie trailer?

Interesting.......2007-03-18

Elijah Wood was surprising in his portrayal of the main charecter, who is a bit of a "nebish" or dweeb, and a collector of multitudenous often unthinkable items. His search of his family's past which takes him to the Ukraine, and the people he meets are
funny, amusing and often very moving. It's got a shocking thread to it,
but not without humor. I also liked the surprise ending. The music was great!

Should have won an Academy Award!!!.......2007-03-15

Funny, insightful, emotionally a rolling coaster and a must see.
Anita in Albuquerque Nm ....also a collector

Just Plain Fun.......2007-02-02

One of the best soundtracks to any film I've seen recently. Fun, upbeat, and not overpowering in it's slavicness.

Average customer rating:

Messin' with Success
Nothing Exciting
I agree with Murat
Excellent chronicle of The Flower Kings sound

The Road Back Home
The Flower Kings
Manufacturer: Inside Out Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Going Off On One (2DVD/CD)
Fear of a Blank Planet
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Sola Scriptura

ASIN: B000QEILLK
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Tracks:

Cosmic Lover
A Kings Prayer
Stupid Girl
Cosmic Circus
Babylon
Paradox Hotel
World Without A Heart
Church Of Your Heart
Vox Humana
What If God Is Alone
Starlight Man
Grand Old World
The Road Back Home
Cinema Show

Tracks:

Ghost Of The Red Cloud
Painter
I Am The Sun (part 2)
Different People
Little Deceiver
Chickenfarmer Song
The Rhythm Of The Sea
Touch My Heaven
Life Will Kill You
Monkey Business
Compassion
The Flower King
Stardust We Are

Album Description

The Road Back Home is the first `Best Of' compilation by the now legendary Swedish progressive rockers. The Road Back Home features 27 classic Flower Kings tracks which have been personally hand-picked and re-mastered by the band's founder and driving force, Roine Stolt, giving the listener a unique and comprehensive front-row look into band's evolution and creative process. The compilation also features a previously unreleased cover version of the classic Genesis song, Cinema Show.

Customer Reviews:

Messin' with Success.......2007-07-03

First off, I absolutely love the Flower Kings and anxiously await their next release. This one though.....
OK, let me get this off my chest first - why, oh why would you play with the perfection that is the original "Church of Your Heart"? When I saw this on the CD's pre-release playlist on the TFK website, I was counting the days until it arrived just to hear a remastering of this song. (I think all TFK fans can agree that while "Stardust We Are" is one of the best albums of all time, it is also one compressed sonic mess). But instead of a nice clean remastering, we get a complete remix, and, gasp - an entire section of the song - a critical section in my eyes - is totally gone! Disappointed hardly covers it.
And therein lies the problem, for me. Most of these songs weren't just remastered, they were remixed as well. Instruments are added or taken away, changing the complexion of the songs in someways good but mostly not. For the most part, the new productions just don't stand up to the old. Several tunes, like "World Without a Heart" sound lifeless, are missing key instrumental parts (where is the lovely piano part in WWAH?) or have had the sometimes rough edges dulled down until they don't have the same impact the originals did.
Roine evidently has disdained the use of reverb for the new mixes, and for me, this new "dry" sound doesn't serve this type of music well.
Overall, it WAS a somewhat fun first listen, and of course the songs are pretty much wonderful anyway, but while there are great moments, I can't imagine listening to this one again anytime soon.
Having said that, thanks Roine for the effort - the liner notes are indeed exceptional, and maybe there is hope that you'll find time to go back and remaster (but NOT remix) the classic TFK albums like Stardust We Are, Flower Power and Rainmaker. Wouldja, please????

Nothing Exciting.......2007-07-02

The Flower Kings (Roine Stolt) take some of their shorter progressive rock tracks and re-mix and remaster them. The chosen list is pretty good and covers their entire career up to this point. The extra, never released track "Little Deceiver" from the Rainmaker sessions is nothing special.

The remixing doesn't seems to improve the songs much and actually seems to make them 'softer.' I word I could use is 'pillowy'....almost giving some of the slower parts of songs a new-age feel to them (not a good thing in my opinion). The punch of the original songs is missing, replaced by a broadening effect to fully take up the sonic range. Another point of dissapontment......should you really mess with "Church of Your Heart?" The classic Flower Kings song has been truncated and the dramatic key change at the last part of the original version is gone. That was the part of the song that got me hooked on the song in the the first place. Also "I am the Sun part II" seems to be truncated as well, and again, the best part of the song, in my opinion, is missing.

Songs picked from newer releases (Adam + Eve and Paradox Hotel) are less affected by the mixing and come off much like the originals.

All-in-all, this is a good collection of Flower King songs, but the remixing doesn't seem that great of an improvement of the originals.

I agree with Murat.......2007-06-28

Thank you Murat, for the fine review. I agree with everything you mentioned. I give the album 5 stars; it's that good.

Excellent chronicle of The Flower Kings sound.......2007-06-26

The Road Back Home is a two-disc compilation album put together by Flower Kings leader Roine Stolt. Not only does it feature the band's relatively more compact and "easy listening" cuts, the songs have also been treated to a new mixing job by Stolt. Add to that several newly recorded guitar solos as well as some backing vocals by Roine Stolt and Hasse Froberg. Some of the numbers have just been remixed whilst some others also feature previously unheard passages, instrumentation, and vocal parts.

The song long-time fans will want to hear the most will probably be "Little Deceiver", a leftover from the band's Rainmaker sessions. It is an interesting experiment where the tune wanders off more into Dire Straits-goes-country territory, bringing forth a true solo statement from Stolt and Froberg who are responsible for everything this song has to offer: unusual harmony vocals, cool loops and sound effects, and steady, straightforward drumming.

Also new on the CD is the band's Genesis tribute "Cinema Show", originally recorded in 1998. Being one of the greatest Genesis songs ever, Stolt says the band was rather nervous while recording it, but the result is nothing short of mindblowing. The acoustic guitar tone, the layered melodies, the awesome vocal parts, and last but not the least, Tomas Bodin's mindblowingly beautiful key solo that not only honours Tony Banks' original work but also adds its own touch to it -- everything is phenomenal about this piece. As noted in the liner notes, that solo is testimony that "great keys can be played with emotion without a trace of blues or jazz".

It would be impossible and meaningless to describe each song on this compilation. After all, they all represent a different era of the band; and they are meant to be enjoyed best in their original context. However, the little nuances brought out in the mixing stage do warrant a mention. "Cosmic Lover", for instance, features new vocal and some clarinet addition as well as a heavier focus on rhythm. This brings out the funky aesthetic and underscores the brilliant Beatles-like vocal harmony. "Stupid Girl" has a brand new guitar solo; and truth be told, I can't choose which one I like better cause the new one is truly sublime. Also, the guitar solo of "A Kings Prayer", one of the greatest Flower Kings songs ever, is different. I love how the deep message is conveyed on this one amidst glimmering acoustic guitar notes and McCartney-like vocal arrangements.

The last few minutes of "Church of Your Heart" have been cut off, and rightly so. The result is a more direct and powerful tune driven by tons of organ work by Bodin and soaring harmonies by Hasse Froberg. The African tribal rhythms merge seamlessly with a gorgeous soprano sax arrangement on "Grand Old World" whilst "Monkey Business" proves once again why everything on Unfold the Future is gold. Jonas Reingold's fretless bass, Hasse Bruniusson's percussion rhythms, and Stolt's unmistakable guitars form the musical aspect of the otherwise tragic lyrical theme. Stolt's vocal part in the intro of "The Road Back Home" has been replaced by Hasse's more fitting singing -- perhaps the best Retropolis song with its melodic hook and blazing Hammond elements.

The songs with Pain of Salvation's Daniel Gildenlow providing backing harmonies have mostly been left untouched, such as "Starlight Man" and "Cosmic Circus", but you can still tell a remix was done on them. The somewhat cluttered soundscape layering of the former piece seems totally gone on the reworked version of "Different People" off of Stardust We Are. Unlike the original version, the piece has a stronger psychedelic centre here thanks to Stolt's meticulous remixing, and the melodious flow is more evocative. The backing voices have enhanced this cut greatly as well.

It doesn't matter whether you're a long-time fan or a new listener. Any Flower Kings fan should pick this up in a heart beat and hear these songs in their new format. If you have never heard any of Flower Kings' studio albums, on the other hand, then, depending on the songs you like the best here, you should go and pick it up impromptu. Once you're hooked, you'll want to have their entire discography anyway.

Kudos to Roine Stolt for not only compiling and remixing all these songs, but also for the detailed song-by-song analysis he offers in the liner notes. He even designed the booklet and cover art himself and added some photos as well. The packaging is superb -- it couldn't be any better.

I wish all compilation albums were this amazing.

Average customer rating:

Where's Vol. 2??
up front and personal
Great to hear Jackson again
Bruce Springsteen for intellectuals
Quality Jackson

Solo Acoustic, Vol. 1
Jackson Browne
Manufacturer: Inside Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Prairie Wind
All the Roadrunning
The Very Best of Jackson Browne
Magic Time
Souls Alike

ASIN: B000B5XSXU
Release Date: 2005-10-11

Tracks:

The Barricades Of Heaven
These Days
The Birds Of St. Marks (never before released!)
Fountain Of Sorrow
Your Bright Baby Blues
For A Dancer
Too Many Angels
For Everyman
Lives In the Balance
Looking East
The Pretender
Take It Easy

Album Description

Presenting twelve songs culled from Browne's extensive and critically acclaimed solo acoustic concerts around the world over the past few years, the disc also captures both spirited and humorous exchanges between Jackson and his audiences, making for a truly intimate listening experience. This new comp, produced by Browne and Paul Dieter, is Jackson's first live release since his 1977 multi-platinum "Running On Empty" album. It also marks the recording debut of a three decades old track, "The Birds Of St. Marks", not previously released in any form. "Solo Acoustic" reaches back to Browne's early years with "These Days" and "Take It Easy", and spans his entire career with other highlights such as "Fountain Of Sorrow", "For Everyman", "The Pretender", and "Looking East". A stirring version of "Lives In The Balance", the title track from Jackson's powerful 1986 album, will be this record's lead single.

Customer Reviews:

Where's Vol. 2??.......2007-06-01

I had the pleasure of seeing this show "live" when he dared to bring it into a really conservative hotbed in Escondido. The show was outstanding, even with the handful of annoyed conservatives grousing out loud to "Just sing" and other odd comments. Jackson Browne has been a liberal activist/performer for over 30 years now - how this escaped so many folks is some mystery.
The music is simply outstanding in its simple arrangement, and the commentary is, well, who the man is. For true fans it's great stuff. I hope volume 2 has a couple of Zevon tunes on it - as he "covered" several of these in the aftermath of the Excitable boy's untimely passing.

up front and personal.......2007-05-29

Jackson Browne has contributed so much both as a political voice and a song writer. These acoustic gems are not all the usual songs he is most associated with. But they are definitely great examples of his sensitivity to the subject matter which he writes about and his warmth he exudes on stage with his audience. Although it would not be my first recommendation to someone who is unfamiliar with his music, it is still a very good body of work to have in your collection if you find yourself as moved as I am by his prose.

Great to hear Jackson again.......2007-03-10

I didn't even know JB was still around! I purchased this CD and was so happy with it, I sent one off to my brother. He sings some of his famous songs and mixed in between is hilarious commentary on life, the road, the songs, women. I love this CD.

Bruce Springsteen for intellectuals.......2007-02-25

Awesome CD. Brief review, excellent songs, excellent voice, excellent sound. The acoustic setup takes away most of the 'retro' feel that comes with the original recordings from which the songs derive and makes them much more contemporary sounding.

Quality Jackson.......2007-02-15

Very nice compilation of classic Jackson Browne music in a live setting. HIs stories between songs are entertaining without being overwhelmingly "live". Any fan of Jackson will love this pure sound.

Average customer rating:

It's OK
Best Symphony X Ever!
even if you think you wouldn't like this stuff
Different bonus track for Japan
A must have CD

Odyssey
Symphony X
Manufacturer: Inside Out U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

V: The New Mythology Suite
Divine Wings of Tragedy
Twilight in Olympus
Paradise Lost
Damnation Game

ASIN: B00006L83N
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

Inferno (Unleash The Fire)
Wicked
Incantations Of The Apprentice
Accolade II
King Of Terrors
The Turning
Awakenings
The Odyssey
Masquerade (Bonus Track)

Album Description

Import exclusive limited edition of the progressive metal act's 2002 album, includes the bonus track 'Masquerade.' Slipcase. InsideOut Music.

Customer Reviews:

It's OK.......2007-05-13

The music on this CD is really good; the guys in Symphony X are very talented. However, I outgrew all that jazz and nonsense about dragons and mystical eyes many years ago. I really don't like the lyrics on this CD. If I were to recommend better progressive rock music to listen to, I would say you should check out EVERYTHING that DREAM THEATER has ever done!

Best Symphony X Ever!.......2007-04-02

This album is epic. Accolade II, Awakenings, and The Odyssey are amongst the greatest songs i've ever heard. Go get this album now!

even if you think you wouldn't like this stuff.......2007-03-05

Ok, this was my intro to Symphony X, and an unexpected one.

It turned out to be one of those rare finds, the kind that stay in your mp3 player weeks on end.

Many of the other reviewers have covered this as well as I could. I just wish this band had better recognition in the States, they really deserve it on many levels - the musicianship, the music, the vocals, each and every member is a star and stands out.

For those that would dismiss this as another million-notes-a-minute act, there is really much, much more to these guys. The only thing I criticize them on is their limited catalog, and lack of a good DVD - bring more of it on guys, your break is coming!

But careful of this as your first SX album, it's great, and others are really good, but this is a tough act to follow.

Different bonus track for Japan.......2007-01-10

First off, this is a very good album, probably my 2nd favorite CD of the band beside "Divine Wings.....". The opening track Inferno (Unleash The Fire) might be one of the best power (not prog) metal songs of all-time, as Russell Allen sings his arse off. The Accolade II is better than the first (off of "Divine Wings....."), in my opinion. The re-make of Masquerade is infinitely better than the original, off of their first album. The title track is obviously very long, but is brilliant in some spots, and keeps your interest all the way through.

Anyway, just wanted to let you guys know there is a Japanese issue of this CD which has a 10th song, titled "Frontiers". It is very hard to find, but the song is nothing to write home about.

A must have CD.......2007-01-03

Symphony X is one of the best metal bands around. This CD is one of their best!

Average customer rating:

Legend Incarnate?
All good
Blah!
"When it's good, it's so, soooo good, but..."
diamonds

Diamonds on the Inside
Ben Harper
Manufacturer: Virgin Records Us
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Binding: Audio CD

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Fight for Your Mind
Both Sides of the Gun
Burn to Shine
Welcome to the Cruel World
Live from Mars

ASIN: B00008AY3L
Release Date: 2003-03-11

Tracks:

With My Own Two Hands
When It's Good
Diamonds On The Inside
Touch From Your Lust
When She Believes
Brown Eyed Blues
Bring The Funk
Everything
Amen Omen
Temporary Remedy
So High So Low
Blessed To Be A Witness
Picture Of Jesus
She's Only Happy In The Sun

Amazon.com

Ben Harper makes elegant leaps from reggae to rock to folk to funk and back in his fifth studio album. The rootsy singer-songwriter with the silken tenor isn't merely genuflecting at the altar of his musical heroes, as here he shows more quirky imagination and inventive musicianship than on any of his earlier efforts. That said, "Diamonds on the Inside" is painted with the same brush that Bob Dylan used on "I Shall Be Released," but Harper adds his own Biblical aphorisms to make the song his own. Most of the songs display Harper's growth as a poet, as he ponders the dualities of life and love in tunes like the disturbing "Touch from Your Lust" and the disquietingly lyrical "Amen Omen." Harper is compelled to sing what is in his heart and to do what he can to make the world a better place. Witness the Marley-like "With My Own Two Hands." The only misstep on the whole disc is the overly humid orchestration of "When She Believes." --Jaan Uhelszki

Amazon.com

Ben Harper Photos

More from Ben Harper

Fight for Your Mind
Both Sides of the Gun
Welcome to the Cruel World

Live From Mars
The Will to Live
Live at the Hollywood Bowl

Album Details

Guests Artists Include Greg Kurstin (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Flaming Lips, Beck) and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

Customer Reviews:

Legend Incarnate?.......2006-11-10

Ben Harper was only a name to me as he is to most people until faily recently. I saw him live and on the Henry Rollins show both this year and and picked-up his new double album and am now scampering to get ALL his material and soak it up. Bottom Line: Ben is out of era...in the Motown years he would have had a home but today no one (including his label) really knows how to market him. He is far too mature musically for the modern day R&B radio and out of the mold for alternative music so he fits into that void that many have had GREAT success in such as Jack Johnson, Tracy Chapman and others but he is his own (as are the aforementioned). He is old school R&B and his openess to experiementation and variation not too mention his talent and sound sometimes make me think he is the incarnate of the late, great Marvin Gaye, funny since I do not believe in reincarnation.
I can ealisy reccommend ANYTHING by Ben if you love Marvin and Motown. He also has hints of Marleyesque struggle in his musical lyrics as well as a heavy gospel influence at times. What an amazing talent! This album is one of his best overall and a good showcase of his music. A good place to start but you can't go wrong with anything he has done.

All good.......2006-04-24

This is great album, I like how pretty much every song is different, and not just songwise, but it spans many different genres. Ben Harper is always good. There's a lot of good reviews for this album, so I won't go much further than that.

Two quick points:

1) I had no trouble playing the music on my computer and converting it into MP3 form. Don't know if it's just some CDs that have the protection or what.

2) Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been around forever and have sounded the same before and after Paul Simon's Graceland album. I don't think it's fair to say that Ben Harper copied anything. They're a beautiful sounding group and they always have that sound. I'm sure everyone remembers the Lifesavers commercials...

Blah!.......2006-04-05

Tried listening to this album, failed. Ben Harper apparently has an awful voice, and the song writing is difficult to listen to. The lyrics are so lame. So so lame.

One star.

"When it's good, it's so, soooo good, but...".......2006-04-02

I really enjoyed Ben Harper's last solo studio release before "Both Sides of the Gun"; but it has a couple of flops that merited the 4-star rather than 5-star rating.

For one thing, I'm Ben Harper's age, and thus old enough to remember Paul Simon's "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes." This is the song that Ben Harper used to rip off, errmm, bring Simon's influence into "Picture of Jesus," which is a dreadful tribute to Simon's "Diamonds"; yet nowhere in the CD liner notes does Harper credit or even thank Simon for this influence--which, as a musician, I thought was kind of classless.

The other "misstep," as the original Amazon.com reviewer succinctly called it, was "When She Believes." I'm not sure if Ben Harper wants us to envision that we're on a gondola in Venice while this song is playing, but the corny "That's Amore"-esque violins playing in the background sure made it feel that way.

Now for the good stuff--standouts on this CD include the opening track, "With My Own Two Hands," which is akin to a beautiful prayer-cum-traditional reggae celebration of a song. "When It's Good" is sultry, sexy, bluesy, and minimalist all at the same time; and the title track, "Diamonds on the Inside," is soulful and loving in its tone while being masterful in its guitar sounds. "Brown Eyed Blues" and "Bring the Funk" are danceable and, well, wonderfully funky; and the eloquent "Blessed to Be a Witness" is a fitting almost-bookend for the opening number. Perhaps the most introspective, yearning song with a masterful blend of both piano and acoustic guitar is "Amen Omen," a passionate ballad. The two rock numbers, "Temporary Remedy" and "So High So Low", also don't disappoint.

So if you don't let the two sloppy tracks I ranted about, as well as the mediocre "Everything" and "She's Only Happy in the Sun", bother you, this is well worth the investment.

diamonds .......2006-03-23

I thought that this cd was great. I really wish he would put Diamonds On The Inside on one of his greatest cd's.

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