My America

My America

ASIN: B00006EXH4

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Jamaica-born pianist Monty Alexander has been recording, performing, and living in the United States since the early '60s. Working with small combos or symphonies, in concert or on soundtracks, he's explored both the jazz of his adopted country and the rhythmic play of his homeland. My America offers up a dozen compositions, most of which are associated in one way or another with the American experience. From the cowboy songs that captured his fancy as a boy ("Don't Fence Me In") to the urban grooves of James Brown and Marvin Gaye, the album is a portrait of his ongoing love with the music of this country. There are guest vocalists on four of the selections, underscoring how smartly this set was paced. The eight-piece ensemble finds the rhythmic heart of each tune, with Alexander soloing with sly aplomb (he quotes "I Heard it Through the Grapevine" in Brown's "Sex Machine," which is followed by Gaye's own "Sexual Healing"). --David Greenberger

Tracks:

Suitcase in my Hand
Cat and Mouse
Strike!
J. Edgar
Footprints in the Snow
Sundown Town
Green Dog
The Dying Truck Driver
Christmas in Southgate
Hank Williams
Red Cat Till I Die
Three Chords and the Truth
My Name is Buddy
One Cat, One Vote, One Beer
Cardboard Avenue
Farm Girl
There's a Bright Side Somewhere

Amazon.com

Though this release carries the deceptive subtitle Another Record by Ry Cooder, the virtuosic guitarist and ethnomusicological adventurer has never released another album quite like this. And neither has anyone else. After brilliant side trips into the music of pre-Castro Cuba and pre-baseball Chavez Ravine, Cooder returns to the Depression-era and Dust Bowl ballads that marked his earliest solo releases of the 1970s. Yet most of this material is original, offering a populist parable of three fellow travelers: Buddy Red Cat, Lefty Mouse, and the Reverend Tom Toad. The tradition of putting pointed social commentary in the mouths of animals extends from Animal Farm to Pogo, and Buddy seems like a feline cross between Woody Guthrie and Joe Hill--a troubadour of union solidarity, interspecies brotherhood, and radical populism. Though Cooder's cartoon vocals occasionally sound a little mannered, the music throughout ranks with his best, as he reunites with conjunto accordion master Flaco Jimenez and soul singers Terry Evans and Bobby King, enlists banjo brothers Pete and Mike Seeger, and receives inspired support from the Chieftains' Paddy Moloney, pianist Van Dyke Parks, and drummers Jim Keltner and (his son) Joachim Cooder. Whether he's channeling his inner Chet Baker on "Green Dog" or closing with the utopian vision of "There's a Bright Side Somewhere," Cooder shows more sides of his multifaceted music than he has on any previous release. --Don McLeese

Album Description

On My Name Is Buddy, Ry Cooder revisits, in a new set of original material, the sound and feeling of the "dust bowl songs" he first explored more than three decades ago on such groundbreaking albums as his self-titled 1970 debut and 1971's In The Purple Valley. In fact, he's joined by old friends like pianist Van Dyke Parks and drummer Jim Keltner who were with him at the start of his extraordinary, ultimately globe-spanning musical odyssey, which has yielded him six Grammy Awards to date, several more nominations, and perennial acclaim. My Name Is Buddy is also a journey, a phantasmagorical rendering in music, words and pictures of the travels of three unlikely cohorts - Buddy Red Cat, Lefty Mouse and Reverend Tom Toad - as they meander through the west "in the days of labor, big bosses, farm failures, strikes, company cops, sundown towns, hobos and trains...the America of yesteryear." For this allegorical tale, Cooder marshals all his remarkable skills as a producer, arranger, songwriter, soundtrack composer and musicologist. (The Christian Science Monitor recently dubbed him "a modern-day Alan Lomax.") My Name Is Buddy recalls Woody Guthrie's Bound for Glory - that is, if it had been enacted by the articulate animal characters of Walt Kelly's classic comic Pogo. Cooder conjures up the dark shadows of an earlier time to wryly comment on the political and social issues of the present. As back-story to his songs, Cooder has written short stories for each one and they're accompanied by evocative illustrations from noted San Antonio-based painter and muralist Vincent Valdez, all of which are included in a specially designed package.

Customer Reviews:

...it wasn't that long ago...........2007-06-18

And maybe that is part of Ry's point.

Ry Cooder seems to be able to find the wonderful diversity of our world lurking under the notes. He plays and out comes ...the heat of the desert as desperation in Paris, Texas, ...the saucy spirit of persistence in Buena Vista Social Club, the fun "Oh I forgot how happy music makes me" in Chicken Skin Music. There are so many. And whats amazing is that there is hardly an album or soundtrack that you don't listen to - I mean really listen.

This is another amazing effort. Full of depression and unionizations references. There is Buddy (the buddy system), Lefty (left - get it), J. Edgar the pig (you can do this one yourself). Characters, good and bad, the truck drivers, the Klan (Republiklans), the poll police (the man) and the wonderful farmer's daughter.

I think the message could have been stronger. Pete Seeger is definitely part of the inspiration. He was master of the alagory - but he had to be. Those were the days when the man would pop out of nowhere and you would be gone (maybe lost to the coyotes). Seeger let his listener pull the power of the issue out of his prose. Ry Cooder could have been abit more "in our face" with these issues. 'Chavez Ravine' proves he has a punch.

But - fear not - this is too good to pull back a star. Listen to it and tell the younger folks that there were times when it was hard - really hard - to find the bright side.

Sorry Ry..........2007-06-12

...but this album borders on the juvenile. And the songs are poorly phrased. This package is destined for the bargain bins.
Now, let's hear from more of those folks who couldn't write a negative review if their life depended on it....Those are the ones that always wind up at the top of Amazon's Customer reviews.

ry cooder at his best.......2007-06-08

love the story line which gets across the message in such a subtle way- who would love a cat named buddy!!

Ry's own voice.......................................2007-05-31

A bit of a "return to his own roots" effort in that Ry:

(a) sings in a style I remember him most for, that is, in a straightforward unstrained manner, as he did on his earlier albums that I admired so much, and
(b) brings back to the arena some political folk sentiments, so we have some Woody Guthrie/Pete Seeger sprinklings along the way.

And he also brings along something rather new for him, a concept album built along a developing lyrical theme. So we have a story line that runs the length of the album.

As always, excellent sidemen and women bring invaluable contributions. But my first thiought on hearing this was that Ry was letting his own voice take its rightful place in the mix again, not so much at the expense of spotlighting his string playing and the guests.

What a disappointment.......2007-05-26

On the bright side - Flaco Jimenez is a boon to nearly anything, and "Footprints in the Snow" provides a welcomed return after the joys of "Do Re Mi" and the Show Time set, 30 years ago. Less bright, left-leaning critters bringing a 1930's update to "Life is Like a Mountain Railway." I appreciated Marlon Brando and Randy Quaid in Missouri Breaks more. Twisting the world, yet again, through the poor-me prism of the Wobblies lacks for the reflective thought I'd come to expect from such an outstanding musician. More bright - Boomer's Story, or Jazz, or the recent work with David Lindley, or any of a dozen other touchstones. I suppose they can't all be jems.

Average customer rating:

Thanks For The Memories!
I still miss him
A collection item
Life isn't just for the living.
Gerald Levert

In My Songs
Gerald LeVert
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music

Contemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Daddy's Little Girls
Luvanmusiq
Collaborations
Gerald Levert Smooth Jazz Tribute
Evolution of Robin Thicke

ASIN: B000LV6RGO
Release Date: 2007-02-13

Tracks:

IN MY SONGS (ALBUM VERSION) [w/ Eddie Levert intro]
I DON'T GET DOWN LIKE THAT
DJ DON'T
WANNA GET UP WITH YOU
FALL BACK
DEEP AS IT GOES
HANG IN THERE
SWEETER
WHAT CHA THINK ABOUT THAT
TO MY HEAD
M'LADY
IS THIS WAY TO HEAVEN?

Amazon.com

In My Songs is soul man Gerald LeVert's final farewell, a collection of vintage-sounding R&B equal to any of the discs he put out in his 20-year career. Only, of course, sadder: Prior to track one, Gerald's legendary father, the O'Jay's Eddie LeVert, reminisces momentarily about the months leading up to this album and his son's pride in presenting it; shards of that short speech linger through songs like "Sweetness," in which the man who was called "Teddy Bear" before Ruben Studdard was a twinkle in Paula Abdul's eye promises to "be sweeter tomorrow than I was today," and "Hang in There," a soulful plea sent out to a sulking lady friend. Two upbeat songs break the solemn mood midway through--"DJ Don't" molds itself to fit old-school party-night sensibilities, and "Wanna Get up with You" whisks the ladies off to the dancefloor--but even those tracks can't help going bittersweet around the edges. They represent LeVert's lost magnetism, after all. And they're reminders that the man who once promised to "sing it to you time and time again," won't. --Tammy La Gorce

Album Description

Gerald Levert's last studio album.

Customer Reviews:

Thanks For The Memories!.......2007-06-26

The R&B World lost another balladeer a few short months ago when Gerald Levert passed away at the early age of 40. Although we will miss him, he left behind a extensive music library including an album that he had just completed at the time of his passing. In My Songs is a 12-song collection that encompasses the diverse array of sounds that we have come to love from Gerald Levert. The upbeat tracks that stand out the most are the happy-go-lucky song "Wanna Get Up With You," the charismatic "DJ Don't," and the bouncy "What Cha Think About That." His best mid-tempo songs would have to be "I Don't Get Down Like That" and "M'Lady" although "Fall Back" and "To My Head" are also respectable. But Gerald still gives the ladies a couple slow jams to cuddle up with. The title track "In My Songs" has to be one of his best ballads to date with all of the compassion that you hear from him while he's belting out his feelings. "Is This The Way To Heaven?" and "Deep As It Goes" are smooth love songs that will put anybody in the mood for some extra-curricular activity. "Hang In There" and "Sweeter" are more romantic in their approach than the other slow cuts. Gerald Levert definitely proved himself time and time again that he more than just Eddie Levert's son. He stood the test of time and garnered fans from across the globe. In My Songs is a great complement to his already huge discography. Even if no more albums are released, the world has many great songs and great memories of the man they called 'Teddy Bear'...R.I.P.

I still miss him.......2007-05-29

I still think I'm going to wake up and realise that Gerald's death was all a dream. But, alas, it isn't so. This album was worked on by my boyfriend and the pain that appears on his face each time the video comes on, makes me just want to take away the pain somehow. It's a great purchase in rememberance of a great guy!

A collection item.......2007-05-16

This cd is a good one to get for your collection. Easy listening, no cursing and no rap, I give it a 5!!! Rest in Peace Teddy Bear.

Life isn't just for the living........2007-05-09

Gerald comes to life on this CD and you don't think about him not still being apart of us...through his music, we will always feel his annointing.

Gerald Levert.......2007-05-07

What can I say about the late, great Gerald Levert that hasn't already been said. This CD is more vintage "teddy bear." Love it!!

Average customer rating:

Makes me remember why I love Harry!
Would give it more than 5 stars if I could!
A classy salute to the city of New Orleans!
gigi...Phila., pa
Fast reliable service

Oh, My Nola
Harry Connick Jr.
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

New Orleans Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

Traditional Jazz General | Traditional Jazz & Ragtime | Jazz | Styles | Music

Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

Contemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Jazz Funk | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Chanson du Vieux Carre
Not Too Late
Freedom's Road
Into White
Duets: An American Classic

ASIN: B000I2KNU2
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Tracks:

Working In A Coal Mine
Won't You Come Home, Bill Bailey ?
Something You Got
Let Them Talk
Jambalaya (On the Bayou)
Careless Love
All These People (Original Recording)
Yes We Can
Someday
Oh , My Nola - (Original Recording)
Elijah Rock
Sheik of Araby
Lazy Bones
We Make A Lot Of Love - (Original Recording)
Hello Dolly
Do Dat Thing - (Original Recording)

Amazon.com

Fresh off his Broadway stint in The Pajama Game, Harry Connick went back to his New Orleans roots and recorded a pair of albums in tribute to his hometown. Released the same day as the similarly themed but mostly instrumental Chanson du Vieux Carré, Oh, My Nola is a loose, effortlessly swinging album that ranks among Connick's best. He traces New Orleans' prodigious musical legacy with well-chosen covers peppered with some originals. Though he wrote only four tracks, at least one of them, "All These People," is a stand-out--a mid-tempo elegy about the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, with a strong contribution from gospel great Kim Burrell. When it comes to the covers, Connick chose tracks that either originated in New Orleans or found particular resonance there. The funky, exuberant take on Allen Toussaint's classic "Working in a Coal Mine" that opens the CD reflects the flavor of things to come, but even more fun are the seemingly left-field picks--you'll never think of "Hello Dolly" the same way after listening to the version found here. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Amazon.com

Having grown up in New Orleans, Harry Connick, Jr. is an iconic product of a city famous for its rich musical history. His new release, Oh, my Nola, is the endearing ode to the rebirth of his hometown and the bright spirit of her people. The album is an impressive collection of classic songs associated with the city and her culture, and also features four original compositions. Sony BMG Music Entertainment and Harry Connick, Jr. proudly sponsor the New Orleans Habitat Musicians Village. For more information, visit http://www.habitat-nola.org/projects/musicians_village.php.

More from Harry Connick, Jr.

When Harry Met Sally: Music From The Motion Picture
Come by Me
30

Only You
Harry On Broadway: Act 1
Chanson du Vieux Carre

Customer Reviews:

Makes me remember why I love Harry!.......2007-07-10

I haven't bought a new Harry Connick Jr. cd in a while. I saw this one looking up at me in a store and I just had to have it. I popped it in to play as soon as I reached the car. I was blown away by this cd. The rhythm and soulful singing really spoke to me. Absolutely wonderful music!

Would give it more than 5 stars if I could!.......2007-06-28

I am great big HCJ fan, have been since "We Are In Love". But this is by far my favourite. I hope they come for a tour in Malaysia again, saw them in 2005, it was a wonderful experience.

A classy salute to the city of New Orleans!.......2007-06-03

I have always been fascinated with the rich musical history of New Orleans. Native son, Harry Connick Jr. pays tribute to this rich musical legacy with this outstanding representation of the city's heritage. He features old classics like "Bill Bailey" (done in a classy style that reminds me of Count Basie's big band sound), the Lee Dorsey classic "Workin In a coal mine" really kicks butt, "Yes we can can"...
makes me want to join the Mardi Gras parade, the bluesy "Someday" is fascinating etc. etc. There really isn't a bad cut on this album. Mr. Connick is a master musician/arranger and singer and he's made himself a classic album. Buy it and you won't regret it.

gigi...Phila., pa.......2007-05-18

husband loves it...this is only place i could find it at a great price...

Fast reliable service.......2007-05-15

I ordered and received my CD quickly. It arrived in perfect condition. Would use them again for sure.

Average customer rating:

Good Jorma Album!
Great pickin, but overbearing religiosity
if you're not a Christian it won't be for you
A Class Act
Pure listening joy

Stars in My Crown
Jorma Kaukonen
Manufacturer: Red House
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Try Me One More Time
My Name Is Buddy
Live at Massey Hall (CD/DVD)
Quartet
West

ASIN: B000MM1F3M
Release Date: 2007-03-13

Tracks:

Heart Temporary
Fur Peace Rag
By The Rivers Of Babylon
Living In The Moment
Late Breaking News
Come Back Baby
Mighty Hard Pleasure
No Demon
There's A Table Sitting In Heaven
When The Man Comes Around
A Life Well Lived
Will There Be Any Stars In My Crown?
Preacher Picked The Guitar
Will There By Any Stars In My Crown? (Instrumental)

Amazon.com

Five years after Blue Country Heart, Stars in My Crown finds Jorma Kaukonen continuing and expanding on that Grammy-nominated work. It's again a relaxed setting, but the stylistic range has taken on a compelling diversity. Not generally a prolific writer, Kaukonen has written a welcome five of the disc's fourteen numbers this time out. They range from the perfect and prayerful opener "Overture: Heart Temporary," with its 12-piece string section holding his acoustic guitar and vocal aloft, to the lilting instrumental "A Life Well Lived." Kaukonen's choice of covers has left him room to make them his own, while also adding to the portrait of who he is as an artist, and how he got there. It would be right to expect a Rev. Gary Davis song on this album, and there are two of them, but it's his take on Johnny Cash's "The Man Comes Around" that amazes. It's an audacious choice for reinterpretation in which he both honors the original and finds a natural ease for his own voice. Throughout the entire set, the small and subtly varying ensemble plays with elegant style, peppered with occasional playful hijinks. --David Greenberger

Album Description

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-enshrined guitarist and founder of Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna returns with a stunning acoustic masterpiece, his first new recording since 2002's Grammy-nominated Blue Country Heart.

Continuing the journey through American roots music he started in the early 1960's, Jorma cooks up a tasty collection of down-home blues, bluegrass, folk, country gospel and reggae. Stars In My Crown was recorded in Nashville and is rooted in classic Americana, flavored with a laid-back bluesy feel.

With fresh takes on soul-searching spirituals and many original compositions, the new record is vastly more personal than previous recordings, as evidenced by the self-penned "Heart Temporary," "A Life Well Lived," and "Living In The Moment." The album reveals Kaukonen's increasingly reflective outlook as the success of his Fur Peace Guitar Ranch and his full and varied life of music and family leads him to ask on the liner notes "Who would have thought that life would be this good?"

Jorma's love for Lightnin' Hopkins manifests in "Come Back Baby," and his continued channeling of Reverend Gary Davis is heard in "There's A Table Sitting In Heaven." A satisfying jewel is Jorma's cover of the classic reggae song "The Rivers Of Babylon." After Jerry Garcia gave him his first reggae album - the soundtrack to the movie The Harder They Come - Kaukonen always wanted to record the tune. "This is crucial reggae for sure," says Jorma.

Backing Kaukonen are the outstanding talents of Barry Mitterhoff (Hot Tuna), Rob Ickes (Blue Highway), Reese Wynans (Stevie Ray Vaughan's Double Trouble), Tim Stafford (Blue Highway, Alison Krauss), Greg Leisz (Dave Alvin) and Sally Van Meter (Tony Furtado Band). Produced by Byron House (Sam Bush Band), Stars in My Crown is the album that fans and critics have been anxiously awaiting.

Customer Reviews:

Good Jorma Album!.......2007-06-22

As always, Jorma pulls out some great guitar work for his fans, and this one is no exception. I'm a fan, and a friend, and I'll probably be a bit biased, but I also feel free to tell it like it is. My favorite is Blue Country Heart and Land of Heroes, and now I have a third favorite "recent" Jorma solo album with Stars in My Crown. For anyone who thinks this is a religious conversion release, they just don't understand what they are talking about. Jorma has always played "gospel" songs in his releases because of his undying devotion to the music of the Rev Gary Davis. Its part of his roots as a musician. His religious epiphany of late was in his Jewish roots, not Christianity, lest anyone think this is Jorma's version of Bob Dylan's Saved album. Great job Jorma, and I hope you record more for us to listen to and aspire to play on our own guitars, even if we try it with flat picks. This is a must-have for any serious Jorma fan and student of fingerstyle guitar, country blues and American roots music.

Great pickin, but overbearing religiosity.......2007-06-15

Great fingerpicking, as is to be expected from Jorma. Unfortunately, he's found God in a big way and feels compelled to beat the listener over the head with the "good news." Ugh....

if you're not a Christian it won't be for you.......2007-06-03

it was disheartening to hear messages of exclusion and righteousness--great gospel music brings all people in as it embraces the human condition and our yearning to become better people. In this CD unfortunately one must believe that Jesus is the only way to have a spiritual life.

A Class Act.......2007-06-03

In a world of much musical GARBAGE, Stars In My Crown is a well written, well composed,CLASS ACT. Jormas' talents have gotten better with age, and although some may resent the Christian theme in a few of the cuts, the well thought out lyrics have to be acknowledged. The first song, "Heart Temporary" will bring a tear to the most seasoned sailor. As an old hippie, I'm glad Jorma brought the love of the sixties back to my heart.

Pure listening joy.......2007-05-09

Jorma's guitar stirs so many memories of yesteryear. His music is uplifting and hopeful. He plays the guitar with such love and passion as to soothe and bring cheer at the same time. A must own for all music lovers.

Average customer rating:

Killing me like none other!!!!!!
LOVE T. HAWKINS
excellent
Fast Delivery
Welcome Back Tramaine

I Never Lost My Praise
Tramaine Hawkins
Manufacturer: Gospocentric
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Live Recordings | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

We Praise You
Live: One Last Time
Grace: Live in Kenya
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Journey: Live in New York

ASIN: B000MV8D0G
Release Date: 2007-03-06

Tracks:

Excellent Lord
Excellent Lord (Reprise)
You Get The Glory
I Never Lost My Praise
Medley; Come Holy Spirit/Worship You
Worship Medley; Praise The Name Of Jesus/ There Is None Like You/There's Something About That Name/ You're Everything To Me
I Need You
Oh Happy day
Lord You Are
Like Never Before
Don't Count Me Out

Album Description

The golden voice which has touched so many lives over the last 20 years rings out again on her latest release and first live Gospo Centric recording, I Never Lost My Praise. Produced by Kurt Carr and her son Jamie, Tramaine's stellar musical back up on this album includes Jamie, Maurice Rogers and Jonathan DuBose. Recorded live at Reid Temple, this album has literally been five years in the making. Sidelined by physical concerns and spritual snares, Hawkins persevered to give us her most intimate and passtionate performance yet.

Customer Reviews:

Killing me like none other!!!!!!.......2007-06-12

When I first heard that Kurt Carr was going to produce Tramaine Hawkins on a live project, I could not wait for the project to be released!! Needless to say, this was one of the best artist-producer collaborations ever!!! The two songs that are wearing me out are 'I Never Lost My Praise' and 'Don't Count Me Out.' Jamie Hawkins is an excellent producer as well, proving he can hold his own mos def!!! Tramaine's voice is still just as anointed as it was in the 70's. She is one of a few artists that shows what can happen when you really know how to take care of your instrument!! This project is definitely a musical journey!!! Don't burn it, buy it! You WILL NOT be disappointed!!!!!

LOVE T. HAWKINS.......2007-06-08

I'M GLAD T. HAWKINS IS STILL LETING THE LORD USE HER TO BLESS THE BODY OF CHRIST & WIN SOULS FOR THE KINGDOM OF THE ALMIGHTY GOD!!!

excellent.......2007-05-20

This CD is uplifting, good for your soul. Tramaine, keep up the good work. GOD BLESS YOU.

Fast Delivery.......2007-05-13

The CD arrived in a timely fashion! It was a gift to a relative.

Welcome Back Tramaine.......2007-05-02

I can't say enough about this CD. It offers praise, worship, testimony, and thought for Christian living. Tramaine has lost nothing in her voice or in her praise. Kurt Carr adds to this wonderful musical achievement. All I can say is just go out and buy it. You will not be disappointed; and your spirit will be moved beyond words.

Average customer rating:

a great jazz album.
Song for My Father
everyone was doing it...but not like this
Great music, terrible remastering
Hammerin' Funk

Song for My Father
Horace Silver
Manufacturer: Blue Note Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Soul-Jazz & Boogaloo | Jazz | Styles | Music

Blue Note Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music

Bebop | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music

$8.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Jazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

$8.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Moanin'
The Sidewinder
Somethin' Else
Speak No Evil
Maiden Voyage

ASIN: B00000IL27
Release Date: 1999-04-20

Tracks:

Song For My Father
The Natives Are Restless Tonight
Calcutta Cutie
Que Pasa?
The Kicker
Lonely Woman
Sanctimonious Sam
Que Pasa? (Trio Version)
Sighin' And Cryin'
Silver Treads Among My Soul

Amazon.com essential recording

Since its title track provided the inspiration for Steely Dan's "Rikki, Don't Lose That Number," Song for My Father has become known as the jazz recording that launched a thousand bad rock records. Yet whatever pretensions Steely Dan and their legion of desperately hip imitators had shouldn't be laid at pianist Horace Silver's door: this is one of Blue Note's warmest and most satisfying collections--and that's saying something. A pioneer of the hard-bop style, which combined gospel and R&B with jazz, Silver authored many outstanding compositions, including not just "Song for My Father," but "Opus de Funk," "Nica's Dream," "Senor Blues," and "The Preacher." His quintets, which featured tenor sax and trumpet, spotlighted such up-and-coming talents as trumpeters Woody Shaw, Art Farmer, and Donald Byrd. On Song for My Father, the band features tenorman Joe Henderson, who contributed one of his own signature tunes, "The Kicker." Along with the strong quintet work, the album includes a fine trio feature for the pianist in "Lonely Woman." --Fred Goodman

Album Description

A visit to Brazil prompted Horace Silver's interest in his Portuguese roots and led to the magnificent "Song For My Father," his most enduring composition. This album also introduced his new band with Joe Henderson and Carmell Jones and features the classic band with Blue Mitchell and Junior Cook.

Customer Reviews:

a great jazz album........2007-04-01

i have met people who actually live without this album. whenever i think about that, i always shake my head in wonder. i don't know how they do it.

Song for My Father.......2007-03-14

This is one of the goog works by Horace Silver, with a very good remastering. However , as I did when listening to the Cape Verdean Blues, I couldn't find clear influences of the music from Cape Vede isls, music I'm familiar with.

everyone was doing it...but not like this.......2007-02-11

Horace Silver (b. 1928) is a skillful jazz pianist with a knack for composition, and this album highlights his genius for simplicity that has since become his trademark. The title track pays homage to Horace's Portuguese father from Cape Verde, John Silver. On "Song for My Father", Horace mixes up his own F-minor jazz piece with traditional Cape Verde and Brazilian carnival music. The result sounds a bit like bossa nova/jazz samba, which was popularized a year before on the Stan Getz/Joao Gilberto album of 1963. Everyone was doing it at this time.

Personnel for tracks 1-6:

Carmell Jones (trumpet), Joe Henderson (tenor sax), Horace Silver (piano), Teddy Smith (bass) and Roger Humphries (drums).

Personnel for tracks 7-10 (not on original LP configuration):

Blue Mitchell (trumpet), Junior Cook (tenor sax), Horace Silver (piano), Gene Taylor (bass) and Roy Brooks (drums).

Much of the flavor on this album works its way out from the influence of the title track, while "The Kicker" is a Joe Henderson composition. This Rudy Van Gelder 24-bit remaster sounds wonderful, though it is not necessary to upgrade from the 1990 edition if you are considering it. There aren't any extra materials, aside from new liner notes. The sound is great, but is comparable to the 1990 release. All in all I would purchase this edition only if you do not have the earlier reissue.

Great music, terrible remastering.......2007-02-09

This is definitely a jazz classic, and with the advertised "24-bit remastering", not to mention that it is part of Blue Note's Rudy van Gelder series, I was ready for a sonic treat. However, it was obviously mastered too loud. Looking at the waveform with Cooledit, there's obivously a fair amount of peak clipping on the CD. What a shame to do this to such classic music.

Hammerin' Funk.......2006-04-18

Horace Silver has always been one of my favorite piano players. Though his styling isn't as distinct as chops of Monk, Horace got some Hammerin'Funk of his own. I've always felt that this album is where is talents have been showcased the best. The album opens with his very own brand of deceptively simple Funk. Yet if it's so simple why aren't there more piano players who sound so joyous and free as Horace does on this track. Que Pasa is a fine latin effort. It sounds almost genre defining. You wanna know what Latin Jazz is. It's Que Pasa! Finaly there's lonely woman. A bop classic that listens like a song with full lyric and all. Each time you revisit this song the lyrics are different but always carry a melancholy beauty.

Average customer rating:

My Favorite Things..
This Is One Of My Favorite Things
John Coltrane: simply beautiful Sax
A Timeless Masterpiece!!!
His best lyrical work

My Favorite Things
John Coltrane
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Avant Garde & Free Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Cool Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Innovators | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

A Love Supreme
Giant Steps
Kind of Blue
Blue Train
Birth of the Cool

ASIN: B000002I53
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

My Favorite Things
Everytime We Say Goodbye
Summertime
But Not For Me

Amazon.com essential recording

This 1960 recording was a landmark album in John Coltrane's career, the first to introduce his quartet with pianist McCoy Tyner and drummer Elvin Jones and the first release on which he played soprano saxophone. It also provided him with a signature hit, as his new group conception came together wonderfully on the title track. It's an extended modal reworking in 6/4 time that brought the hypnotic pulsating quality of Indian music into jazz for the first time, with Coltrane's soprano wailing over the oscillating piano chords and pulsing drums. The unusual up-tempo version of Gershwin's "Summertime" is a heated example of Coltrane's "sheets of sound" approach to conventional changes, while "But Not for Me" receives a radical harmonic makeover. This is an excellent introduction to Coltrane's work. --Stuart Broomer

Customer Reviews:

My Favorite Things.........2007-06-02

It's John Coltrane - what more do I have to say? Five stars!

This Is One Of My Favorite Things.......2007-03-22

The Liner Notes written by Bill Coss indicate that John Coltrane, one of the giants in the jazz scene, draw his inspiration from other jazz icons such as Lester Young, who was his first real influence and whom he learned "simplicity," John Hodges, who filled his musical experience and became his first main influence on alto, Thelonious Monk, who answered dozens of his musical questions and the first one to show him how to make two or three notes at one time on tenor, Earl Bostic, who showed him a lot of things on his horn, Jimmy Heath, who shared his musical appetite, their friendship and practice together added a great deal to his musical development. Miles Davis, Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie were also his greatest influences.

John Coltrane is surrounded by a gifted crew that includes McCoy Tyner (piano), Steve Davis (bass), Elvin Jones (drums). Together they present four notable jazz tunes starting off with my favorite song from the "Sound of Music," Rodgers & Hammerstein's "My Favorite Things," Cole Porter's "Everytime We Say Goodbye," George & Ira Gershwin's "Summertime" and "But Not For Me."

Let your ears feast on the some of the most recognizable sounds of jazz music from one of the greatest jazz artists of all-time, John Coltrane. This is one of the best albums ever made and it's one of "My Favorite Things."

A classic of an album worthy to any jazz lover's collection.

John Coltrane: simply beautiful Sax.......2007-03-11

This album has always been a favorite since I first heard it in 1966. I mourned the loss of the album, but was glad to finally find it here.

Imagine, a jazz great, with a band of stellar performers, playing Rogers & Hammerstiens music, that Julie Andrews sang in "The Sound of Music"!

I think it very simply shows that a great muscian can do justice to any form of music. [Another example is Taj Mahal and the many styles he has played.]
If you can still get it, "My Favorite Things" is worth owning.
Will

A Timeless Masterpiece!!!.......2007-02-18

This is genuine music that soothes the soul. The album consists of 4 songs (all of which are beautiful). My favorite tracks are "Summertime" and "My Favorite Things," but the entire album sends a feeling of achieving a sort of soul- filled nirvana. Great album.

His best lyrical work.......2007-01-05

Sometimes Coltraine can get too carried away with his virtuosity at the expense of asthetics, his notes muddling together into cacophany and chaos. "My Favorite Things" represents the best of Coltraine showcasing his innovation, his masterful control of tone, and a lyrical ear that transforms this Broadway song into a monument of jazz.

Listen My Friends! The Best of Moby Grape

Average customer rating:

On Your Way To Omaha
Reviewing the group rather than the record
Doesn't Live Up to the Hype
It's time to have some grape in the collection
Buy Crosstalk instead

Listen My Friends! The Best of Moby Grape
Moby Grape
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Sweeping Up the Spotlight: Jefferson Airplane Live at the Fillmore East 1969
Monterey Pop Festival
At the Kabuki Theatre
Last Flight
The Remains

ASIN: B000P46PWS
Release Date: 2007-05-15

Tracks:

Hey Grandma
Mr. Blues
8:05
Omaha
Sitting By the Window
Indifference
Bitter Wind
Murder In My Heart For the Judge
Can't Be So Bad
He
Motorcycle Irene
Rose Colored Eyes
Sweet Ride (Never Again)
Ooh Mama Ooh
Ain't That a Shame
If You Can't Learn From My Mistakes
Going Nowhere
Seeing
Changes, Circles Spinning
Truly Fine Citizen

Customer Reviews:

On Your Way To Omaha.......2007-07-09

Where exactly do place Moby Grape in the strata of American pop music circa 1966-69? I can't honestly place them in the upper echelon with the likes of The Byrds, Dylan, Simon & Garfunkle, Hendrix and the Doors. But certainly they do belong smack-dab in the middle of the second tier, with The Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, The Dead, Buffalo Springfield, The Band, Mamas & Pappas, Santana, Steve Miller Band and of course Love, the other great Bay area band that never had a top-40 hit.

With that said "Listen My Friends" will provide you with your 20 song fix of MG. I wasn't a huge fan back then. But I did have the first two Lp's and I have really enjoyed getting back into Ooh Mama Ooh!!!Grape Moby Music....Or is that Murderous vendetta for The Judge that keeps you comming back for another look at Motorcycle Ireane?.. What ever your taste in Grape Jam, this collection is all vintage and ripe. Pop a grape into your mouth right now and you'll be on your way to Omaha....Ooh Mama Ooh...Omaha!!!!Enjoy.

Reviewing the group rather than the record.......2007-06-12

A new record is out, and I want to know if it is good. I already know the previous work of Moby Grape and I do not need Sam King telling me how good the group is. He is right but redundant. I want to know if there is anaything new on the record that I have not got or heard. From reading the 8 reviewers, I see no mention of any new material. I assume that everything on the record is recycled from the original releases and several previous compilations. A proper review might then begin with: "why does anyone need this. The second hand stores have copies of the previous compilations." The next issue is why the record company did not release something new, like the Amsterdam concert. Should record companies be rewarded when they have such conservative release policies. Why buy these songs again? Foolish, right.

Doesn't Live Up to the Hype.......2007-06-09

Moby Grape is absolutely the most over-rated group to emerge from the late sixties. What little appeal they might have had is mitigated by the ridiculous claims of their followers, i.e. "better first album than the Beatle, Byrds, Stones, Airplane et al". At best, this is a highly debatable claim. At worst, it's a complete falsehood (my view).

Spence's work on the first two Airplane albums is better than his work with the Grape thanks to the far superior vocals of Marty Balin/Signe Anderson/Grace Slick and the intiguing guitar interplay provided by Casady, Kantner and Kaukonen.

I've tried to get into the Grape, several times. But the hype is such a turn off. Particularly when the group fails miserably to live up to it.

It's time to have some grape in the collection.......2007-05-26

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" I had the honor of interviewing Jerry Miller. His stories of what the band went through made it clear that even with so many forces against them cream will still go to the top.

This is a terrific introduction to the group. While the fanatic (Rightly so) will always find songs that should have been included, those that are on this package will give you all sides of the Moby experience. They could rock, they could play, and their music was and is a great represenstation of the amazing sounds that eminated from the city by the bay.

If you are in Omaha or Ohio listen my friends and get a taste of the grape. It'll be rather pleasing.

Be well always,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

Buy Crosstalk instead.......2007-05-24

I love the Grape, they truly are the great unsung band of the 60's. Their stuff is almost uniformly great. That said, this is only the 3rd best Moby Grape compilation out there. The best of course is the 2-disc "Vintage", which I think you can still find on Amazon UK. If you don't feel like hunting, then get "Crosstalk", which is cheaper than this release and has a better track selection. There's no way a Moby Grape best-of can be considered definitive while missing two of their best songs, "Fall On You" and "It's a Beautiful Day Today".

Average customer rating:

Music we all need to hear once in a while.
A very good CD
Revision of history
Lovely CD--shameful misspelling on the song titles
The Ultimate Patriotic Album

God Bless America: Ult Patriotic Album

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

God Bless America
America's Favorite Patriotic Songs
Stars & Stripes Forever, Vol. 2
American Anthems
The Military Band: Salute to the Services

ASIN: B000068C7V
Release Date: 2002-06-11

Tracks:

Yankee Doodle
Star Bangled Banner (vocal)
God Bless America
Battle Hymn Of The Republic
Shenandoah
Amazing Grace
America The Beautiful
Simple Gifts
America (My Country 'Tis Of Thee)
Over There
You're A Grand Old Flag
Thru The Years 1776-1969
Semper Fidelis
Washington Post
American Patrol
Star Bangled Banner (instrumental)
The Caissons Go Rolling Along
Anchors Aweigh
Semper Paratus
The Air Force Song
The Marines' Hymn
The Stars And Stripes Forever

Customer Reviews:

Music we all need to hear once in a while........2007-01-04

This album is well put together and I enjoy the old standards. Music is an integral part of our heritage. Often when I listen to this album, I think about what our country has been through and how very, very important it is to appreciate what we have. I spent 3 years living in France in the 60's and I cannot tell you how much all Americans looked forward to going "Home!"

Enjoy!!

A very good CD.......2005-06-16

If you like a mix of songs and marches very well played, this CD is for you. The voices of the singers are good, the music support the lyrics and it is easy to listen or to sing along. Also, nearby half of the tunes are played by the Band of the Grenadier Guards and for me, this Band is the best band to play Sousa marches and military marches. The precision of the execution is perfect, the sound is lovely and the technical quality of the recording is perfect. When I listen Anchors Aweigh, I always hear the sound of the waves and it is one of the only bands that gives me this feeling. If you have just one CD of military music to buy, you may buy this one; it is a best buy.

Revision of history.......2005-03-27

As usual, "Dixie," "The Bonnie Blue Flag," and other songs of a Southern genre are conspicuously absent. Why not throw in a couple of rap tunes to make this album truly "American?"

Lovely CD--shameful misspelling on the song titles.......2002-11-22

I do not own this CD--though it appears it would be a wonderful album to listen to. I was compelled to write my review because of the misspelling of our national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner (as opposed to "The Star Bangled Banner" as it appears not once but twice on the song list). I do hope this error is corrected.

The Ultimate Patriotic Album.......2002-07-20

For all those patriots out there who want to listen to classical patriotic music, then get this album. This has a lot of tracks from yankee doodle march to the Washington post march. Even Amazing grace is here. The orchestras and the chorus here, gave there best performance ever.

Tracks:

Wordless Chorus
It Beats 4 U
Gideon
What A Wonderful Man
Off The Record
Into The Woods
Anytime
Lay Low
Knot Comes Loose
Dondante

Amazon.com

Two years and a pair of band members have passed since My Morning Jacket's last album, and the respite seems to have reinvented the Louisville, Ky., band and its leader Jim James. Shelved are the boogie-soaked country and hard-stomping metal of the first three records--assuring that all links to Lynyrd Skynyrd are hereby obsolete--and the sleek maturation of James's wailing, echoing falsetto may have even nullified the Neil Young comparisons. Using the guitar as a complement more than as a weapon, songwriter James has simplified the sound where keyboards take the lead and choruses play like a '70s AM radio. While songs like "Anytime" and "What a Wonderful Man" channel the old MMJ sound, they do so with less chaos and more spontaneity. That's the trend for the record's best: "Wordless Chorus" and its infectious "aaaah" refrain, the Hawaii Five-O-riffed ska of "Off the Record" and a Stranglers-minded carnival waltz, "Into the Woods." Serving as a pop-music paradigm that change is good, Z is ambitious, groundbreaking and downright impeccable. --Scott Holter

Customer Reviews:

Long Live Rock (Rock Ain't Dead!).......2007-06-30

My Morning Jacket provides proof positive that Rock and Roll is still alive and kicking. Not only are these songs catchy, but a few also add the wonderful rockin' jams that sets My Morning Jacket apart from other, lesser "hard rock" bands.

My favorites are What A Wonderful Man, Off the Record, and others whose names escape me. In fact, it's such a strong effort throughout that it's not necessary to pick out a few as "the best." It's the opposite of that horribly upsetting feeling of buying an album, only to find that one hit you love, followed by 9 fillers of crap.

What I do notice on this album is a sort of homage to The Who. In fact, when I first heard Off the Record, I honestly thought that this was something new by said band. It even sounds like I'd guess Roger (Daltrey) would sound by now. And then there's that sorta Hawaii Five-O sample thrown in; why, I don't know, but it somehow works.

Buy this album. It's great. It's really just that simple. I used to be a Deadhead way back when, and I think this is one of the only bands that I feel can jam like The Dead (no, I don't think they sound alike, too). The only others that i feel can accomplish this feat are/were Blues Traveler, a smidgin of Phish, and maybe Built to Spill.

Again, I'm just so happy to be able to say, "Hey, rock's stil alive. And it DOESN'T suck!" Buy and enjoy.

My Morning Jacket Sucks . . . Not.......2007-05-14

The 2005, year-in-review indie lists touted one of two albums as the best of the year. 2004's hands down
winner was The Arcade Fire's Funeral, and the indie folks are still talking about them, even after a less
than pleasing follow-up. For 2005, My Morning Jacket's Z, and I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning by Bright Eyes
were at the top of many lists for trendy music sifters and reviewers. I first listened to the latter, and
was somewhat dissappointed at my first taste of the indie movement. I then listened to Funeral by Arcade Fire
to see what last years winner was like. Very impressive. So I decided to give My Morning Jacket a try.
Placed it on hold at the library, and listened to it once, and didn't think much about it. I kind of lost
track of the indie music scene till my friend Sir Erik the Independent ackwardly approached me at a party
and we had the most uncomfortable 15-minute conversation the world had seen in 3 decades. But he asked me
about indie music, I made up something smart to say about Bright Eyes, and he kind of smirked (he does this
a lot, especially when he's in his I'm-right-and-no-one-else-is-smart-enough-to-realize-it mood) and mentioned
about half a dozen bands that I'd never heard of. The Mountian Goats are actually a band, I've now realized,
thanks to Erik. And check this out, it's good songwriting, according to Erik.
So Erik, being the indie music snob that he is, told me to check out It Still Moves by My Morning Jacket
after I said that I was currently digging Z by My Morning Jacket. How come it's always the old and obscure
for this indie music Indiana Joneses that blow an obscure and intelligent load everytime they hear something
that they're quite sure no one else has truly "discovered" only to move on to near-oblivion roots music once
someone figures out and ultimately corrupts the pure and sweet musical masterpiece they once held so dear? Just
asking.
Erik the Independent and Much Better When It's Older Mike both really think that It Still Moves is the greatest
MMJ jacket album, and prefer just to ignore the indie-approval of Z just two years earlier. The songs on Z are
diverse and Jim James voice is quite relaxing and shapeless. Once you've finished Z, you realize that, as much
as 4 minute musical tags at the end of their songs aren't required, and that MMJ's vocal arrangements have a
much more interesting payoff than their straight instrumentation with guitar jams and horns. Not to knock their
previous album at all, but to say they have matured their arranging. The last track has a 2 minute tag on the
end, reminiscent of It Still Moves, but Z is definitely a nice footprint on their musical journey. The opening
Wordless Chorus is a song full of drowsy hooks and the classic silo-voices of previous MMJ works. Jericho is
a faster paced number that builds on James' ability to hit the high notes strong. Into The Woods is a carnival-
esque number, with some odd imagery, but with a very nice melody to even it out. Dodante puts a nice smooth finish
on the album, and really makes you sad that there are only 10 tracks on this CD.
The overall star rating on Amazon for this album, at the time of writing, is low due to the short-lived copy-
right protection software, which has since gone the way of the buffalo. This CD is going for a great deal less
on the used Amazon sellers tabs. Spending 5 dollars on this album is a great investment.

FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, DO NOT LET THE 1 STAR REVIEWS TURN YOU AWAY!!!!.......2007-04-06

The average rating here, as has been noted before, is pulled down by issues related to DRM/copyright problems with the disc -- not the music. Just repeating this fact again for those who put too much faith in others' reviews. Fortunately, most reviewers see the excellence at work on this album. Trust me, you gotta have this one. And you need to explore the back catalog and, of course, their live stuff. My new favorite band...

b**ds didn't say it was copy protected.......2007-03-17

I bought it on understanding it was aregular CD - it wants to load software onto my PC before i can play it - well get lost !!!

Can i have my money back please - you can have the CD back

Not that good or interesting or original

enough with the radiohead comparisons........2007-02-03

I don't argue with the fact that the tunes are catchy and the songwriting is melodious and mature. It's just that a few seconds into the first track, I scanned the liner notes to see if the Flaming Lips' Wayne Coyne was doing guest vocals. It's even more prominent on the 6th track, "Into the Woods," which is the only song on the CD that I find unlistenable. In "Gideon," the singer's voice morphs into quasi-Sting. MMJ is a versatile band that can pull off a lot of musical styles, and I hear that they're stunning in concert. But when I listen to this CD, I constantly find myself saying, "This song sounds a lot like...".

Jazz Music:

Jazz Music

Jazz Music

When Harry Met Sally: Music From The Motion Picture	Come by Me	30
Only You	Harry On Broadway: Act 1	Chanson du Vieux Carre