Sogna Ragazzo Sogna [Import]

Product Description
Long Awaited Album from Roberto Veccioni, Italian Pop Star Popular Not Only in his Native Country but as Well in Germany, Benelux and Austria.

Sogna Ragazzo Sogna,Roberto Vecchioni,EMI Int'l,Int'l & World Music,Italian Pop,Italy,Pop,World Music

Average customer rating: I wish there was a 10 star scale... 80s Stones The Last Great Rolling Stones Album THE STONES ROCK WITH TATTOO YOU! strong release from a band considered over the hill

Tattoo You The Rolling Stones Manufacturer: Virgin Records Us ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Supergroups | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Some Girls Emotional Rescue Goats Head Soup Sticky Fingers It's Only Rock 'N Roll ASIN: B000000W5F Release Date: 1994-07-26

Tracks:

1. Start Me Up
2. Hang Fire
3. Slave
4. Little T & A
5. Black Limousine
6. Neighbours
7. Worried About You
8. Tops
9. Heaven
10. No Use In Crying
11. Waiting On A Friend

Amazon.com

Often viewed as the band's last great album, Tattoo You contributed one true classic, "Start Me Up," to the Stones' canon. The song, still used as a concert finale, begins with a fat Keith Richards guitar riff and ends with a leering Mick Jagger murmuring about a woman who could "make a dead man come." The rest isn't as consistent as, say, "Sticky Fingers," but the fast-paced "Hang Fire," the surprisingly non-sexy "Waiting on a Friend," and Richards's "bitch"-filled "Little T&A" make this the Stones' best '80s release by far. Released in 1981, it was the right album at the right time, with strong singles just after MTV began. With typical savvy, the Stones maneuvered gently into the video age. --Steve Knopper

Customer Reviews:

I wish there was a 10 star scale..........2007-05-12

Amazon really needs to consider some alternatives to the five star ratings. It is simply too easy to lump a variety of albums into one category even though they may differ slightly. It's the difference between a B+ and a B- if you will - sorry, it's the teacher in me. I would make this a 6 if it were a 10 point scale, opposed to Dirty Work or Emotional Rescue or Black and Blue being 7s. It's good but not a Stones cd that I play all the time. I play other eighties Stones albums more than this if that gives you any perspective.
What I used to really like about this recording was that, in the vinyl days, one side was rock, the other slower songs. It was kind of cool that you could choose your mood and play the side to fit. Granted, you can do the same now as the pacing is not changed, but I just wanted to point out that geezer factoid. I tend to like the slower side best. There are some really great songs there and Mick is in fine form.
The rocking side has the more familiar numbers including Start Me Up which can make the unique claim of having its opening riff being universally accepted as a sports icon. In sports arenas around the globe, Keef's opening hammer-on chording signals the faithful to get up and cheer the home team. Not many musicians can make that claim - not that they'd want to, either. It is a fast-paced and typical Stones rocking cadre of songs and it won't disappoint even the casual Stones fan. Ronnie's contribution of Black Limousine is the highlight for me. I love the Stones doing the blues.
Many call this the last great album or some such label and I disagree. All Stones albums since the 70s have to be taken at face value - they have some good and some average and even some bad. Yet, it's the Stones and that always makes me happy.

80s Stones.......2007-05-06

Contains a few great songs, has a couple of decent songs and one or two I could do without. Generally, it is the Stones...

The Last Great Rolling Stones Album.......2007-02-10

Don't believe the negative reviews. Tattoo You is one of The Rolling Stones' greatest albums! Unlike Some Girls and Emotional Rescue, there's not a trace of disco on this one. Infact, the album could be considered a sequel of sorts to Sticky Fingers. Many of the songs mirror ones from that album. Instead of 'Brown Sugar,' we're given 'Start Me Up,' which was the Stones' best rock single since then. Instead of 'Can't You Hear Me Knocking,' we're given 'Slave,' a jam that also features a superb blend of guitar and saxophone. Indeed, the sax makes its most triumphant return here, courtesy of the great Sonny Rollins and Bobby Keyes. Instead of 'You Gotta Move,' we're given 'Black Limosine,' and so on. Also like Sticky Fingers, Tattoo You features just as many rockers as slow numbers.

To dismiss Tattoo You as simply an album of out-takes is ignorant. It delievers in a way that no other Stones album has been able to since, partly because it is the last one to have that "classic Stones" sound. In addition, it can't be denied that great talent went into the tracks. Tattoo You features no less than 4 amazing gutiarists - Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood, Wayne Perkins, and Mick Taylor. The book "According to the Rolling Stones" even lists Pete Townshend among the credits. I suspect that he played on 'Worried About You' since the beat is similar to The Who's 'Baba O' Riley', but who knows. Perkins does an awesome guitar solo on 'Worried About You' and Taylor appears on 'Tops' and 'Waiting on a Friend.'

Considering what came after it (Undercover, Dirty Work, Steel Wheels), it's no wonder that Tattoo You is considered the last great Stones album. Voodoo Lounge, while not a complete failure, is littered with filler and Bridges to Babylon has hip-hop overtones in spots. Only until A Bigger Bang did the band finally release an album that was fairly consistent in quality. Tattoo You is definitely worth buying and I also recommend Still Life, a live album from their 1981-1982 tour that serves as the perfect bonus CD to this great album.

THE STONES ROCK WITH TATTOO YOU!.......2006-12-15

I will be writing a review on the legendary brilliant masterpiece CD album simply entitled "TATTOO YOU" by THE GREATEST ROCK N' ROLL BAND IN THE WORLD, THE ROLLING STONES! This album was originally released on vinyl/LP and cassette in 1981 on the infamous Rolling Stones Records label which is manufactured by Columbia Records/CBS Inc. I purchased the very first release of this album on CD and the matrix or ID number is CK 40502. I also purchased the re-release issue of this album in the Collector's Edition on the Virgin Records label. The matrix or ID number is 7243-8-39502-2-5. If I hear any new additional information concerning this legendary album, I will edit this review so that you the consumer will get the best and most accurate review possible.

In my opinion, "TATTOO YOU" is an another outstanding album and production by The Glimmer Twins! I will list and briefly review all the song tracks in their exact order as follows: (1.) "Start Me Up," (Outstanding! Brilliant! Magnificent! Another great fast rocker by The Stones which is also an anthem in my sports events! What a great way to begin this legendary album! This song, believe it or not, was originally recorded as a Raggae song during the "EMOTIONAL RESCUE" sessions! I love this song dearly very much!) (2.) "Hang Fire," (Outstanding! Another great fast rocker by The Stones! I love this song, its one of my favorites!) (3.) "Slave," (Outstanding! Another great rocker! I love it!) (4.) "little T & A," (Outstanding! Another great fast rocker sung by Keith! I love this song!) (5.) "Black Limousine," (Outstanding! Another great fast rocker! I loved the way The Stones performed this song during their 1981-82 North American Tour. I love this song!) (6.) "Neighbors," (Outstanding! Another great Stones rocker! I love it!) (7.) "Worried About You," (Outstanding! Another great slow Stones song! One of the rarest moments that you will ever hear Mick sing at the falsetto vocal level besides "Miss You!" I love it!) (8.) "Tops," (Outstanding! Another great slow Stones song! I love this song!) (9.) "Heaven," (Outstanding! Another beautifully crafted and arranged slow song sung by Mick using his lead falsetto vocals! I love this song dearly!) (10.) "No Use In Crying" (Another great slow Stones song! I love it!) and (11.) "Waiting On A Friend." (Outstanding! Brilliant! Magnificent! Another great slow rocker by The Stones! I love Mick's lead falsetto vocals! I love this song so much and is so very dear to me! This song is a great way to conclude this album! I love it!) Overall, all of the song tracks in this album are nothing short of outstanding! A brilliant album indeed!

As you can see, this album is definitely worth purchasing that he or she should definitely own as part of his or her collection. This album, like many of the other Stones great albums, will be enjoyed and cherished for many years to come. Great album.

In closing, what can I say about The Stones that hasn't already been said? Besides The Beatles, The Stones have contributed and accomplished so much in Rock n' Roll while living the Rock n' Roll lifestyle their way and on their terms which is extremely fast! The Stones are still THE GREATEST ROCK N' ROLL BAND IN THE WORLD indeed! Thanks for reading my review and I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it for your reading pleasure. I also hope that you will read all of my other reviews in the near future when time permits. God Bless and long live The Rolling Stones! Long live Rock n' Roll! Rock out always and take care. J.L.

strong release from a band considered over the hill.......2006-11-01

The most amazing aspect of this album was that it was a very strong release coming from a band that had been around almost 20 years.

Back in the 1970s with "Some Girls", even that album was considered pretty good for such an old band. "Emotional Rescue" was a misfire and this band was written off for good.

They ROAR into the 1980's with this album that was not only high qulaity for the Stones but the songs were bona fide contemporary radio and MTV staples.

"Start me Up", "Hang Fire" Little T & A" and "Waiting on a friend " are the standouts.

They never came close again. It was all downhill from here.

Average customer rating: Great harmonica work and a great blues voice Great Rice Miller Compilation S.B Williamson (review) Fast Shipment Blues, and more blues. He taught the old rockers.

His Best Sonny Boy Williamson Manufacturer: Chess ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chicago Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Blues | Styles | Music Traditional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music Electric Blues Guitar | Blues | Styles | Music Harmonica Blues | Blues | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Howlin' Wolf: His Best (Chess 50th Anniversary Collection) The Sky Is Crying: The History of Elmore James Hoodoo Man Blues The Original Delta Blues His Best: 1947 to 1955 ASIN: B000005KQN Release Date: 1997-05-20

Tracks:

1. Good Evening Everybody
2. Don't Start Me To Talkin'
3. All My Love In Vain
4. Keep It To Yourself
5. Fattening Frogs For Snakes
6. I Don't Know
7. Cross My Heart
8. Born Blind
9. Ninety Nine
10. Your Funeral And My Trial
11. Keep Your Hands Out Of My Pocket
12. Sad To Be Alone
13. Checkin' Up On My Baby
14. Down Child
15. Nine Below Zero
16. Bye Bye Bird
17. Help Me
18. Bring It On Home
19. My Younger Days
20. One Way Out

Amazon.com

This is Sonny Boy Williamson II, whose 1940s Mississippi Delta radio broadcasts for King Biscuit Time made him one of the most influential of all blues musicians. A master harmonica player, he created relaxed songs, often humorous, that reminded urban listeners of their country roots. These tracks are from his years at Chess, beginning in the mid-1950s until his death in 1965. His recording bands feature Muddy Waters, Otis Spann, and Robert Lockwood Jr., among others. Perhaps his best-known track here is "Don't Start Me to Talkin' (I'll Tell You Everything I Know)," but his signature sound is evident on every high trill he played. --Robert Gordon

Customer Reviews:

Great harmonica work and a great blues voice.......2007-05-04

He was probably born Aleck or Alex Ford, took the name "Rice" Miller later on, and adopted the name of another fine blues player, Sonny Boy Williamson still later. His harmonica playing is wondrous to listen to; he was a mentor to such luminaries as Howlin' Wolf, Junior Wells, Little Walter, and so on. This CD features work from 1955 to 1964.

A few selections well illustrate his art.

"Good evening Everybody" begins the CD with typical riveting harmonica work. The instrument wails. What a backing group: Otis Spann, Muddy Waters, Jimmy Rogers, Willie Dixon, and Fred Below. The song has an up tempo beat (as liner notes mention, the tempo slows over the 10 year period covered by this CD). He finishes the song by singing of being in a studio in Chicago playing the blues. And play the blues he does.

"Don't Start Me to Talkin'" is a nice tune, with more exquisite harmonica work.

"All My Love in Vain" should not be confused with the similarly named song by the legendary Robert Johnson. Again, terrific harmonica playing. And some good lines:

"Heart's been broken,
And all my love in vain."

The backing group (same as the previous two cuts) plays well.

One of his most well known songs, "Nine Below Zero" features good lines, such as:

"It was 9 below zero
And she put me down for another man.
I gave her all my love and all my money,
Everything."

His voice suggests a hard living life (and liner notes indicate that that was the truth)! The harmonica work embellishes the singing nicely.

All in all, a good introduction to the work of Sonny Boy Williamson. For blues' enthusiasts, this is a work well worth considering.

Great Rice Miller Compilation.......2007-04-02

This is a wonderful collection of blues harmonica music. The Sonny Boy Williamson who was also known as Rice Miller was a masterful player, and a talented songwriter. His voice aged with him to produce that fine bluesy-gravelly sound that endears a blues performer to his audience.

Some of his classic songs like Don't Start Me To Talking, Your Funeral and My Trial, Fattening Frogs For Snakes, and Nine Below Zero are on this retrospective. This is a blues music collectors must have if you love harmonica music.

S.B Williamson (review).......2007-03-11

Chess 50th Anniversary CD for Sonny Boy Williamson is a very good CD. Especially for the avid Blues fan, I recommend it as a "must have".

Fast Shipment.......2007-01-19

Item arrived in excellent condition. Shipping was fast and in plenty of time for Christmas.

Thank you.

Blues, and more blues. He taught the old rockers........2007-01-10

Where did Robert Plant get his inspiration? Find out.

Average customer rating: Quite simply? Fantastic! This CD Rocks! Got Slide? Greatest Rock/Blues Slide "Live" Album of All-Time Couldn't be better

Grant Street Sonny Landreth Manufacturer: Sugarhill [Country] ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Blues | Styles | Music New Orleans Blues | Regional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music Electric Blues Guitar | Blues | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Blues | Styles | Music Modern Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music Southern Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Fever for the Bayou The Road We're On The Duke Meets the Earl Blues Deluxe It's Time ASIN: B0006FO83Y Release Date: 2005-01-25

Tracks:

1. Native Stepson
2. Broken Hearted Road
3. Gone Pecan
4. Port Of Calling
5. Blues Attack
6. Z. Rider
7. U.S.S. Zydecoldsmobile
8. Wind In Denver
9. All About You
10. Pedal To Metal
11. Congo Square

Amazon.com

Just as Muhammad Ali once boasted that he could "float like a butterfly, sting like a bee," Louisiana's Sonny Landreth can make his slide guitar roar like a rocket ship and dance like a ballerina. As this live set recorded on his home turf attests, few guitarists combine such power with such precision. Landreth's veteran rhythm section of bassist David Ranson and drummer Kenneth Blevins provides whipcrack support on a set of supercharged instrumentals ("Native Stepson," "Z. Rider," "Pedal to Metal") and original blues ("Broken-Hearted Road," "Wind in Denver"), building to a climax with the guitarist's signature tune, "Congo Square." Though Landreth established himself as an ace sideman from his apprenticeship with zydeco kingpin Clifton Chenier through his extended stint with John Hiatt, he really cuts loose with his own trio, generating a dynamic propulsion that threatens to levitate this Lafayette dancehall. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

Quite simply? Fantastic!.......2007-06-13

There's not a guy who's heard this CD on my stereo or iPod who hasn't asked, "Who is that playing the guitar?" Yeah, no kidding, Sonny Landreth is da bomb, and Grant Street is a fantastic CD. Buy it if you enjoy superb guitar playing, you could not possibly be disappointed.Grant Street

This CD Rocks!.......2007-01-11

My first Sony Landreth CD. Lots of great songs and rocking tunes. Highly recommend.

Got Slide?.......2007-01-11

My perpective is a little skewed from seeing Sonny live last weekend. This recording is the one that made me seek out his show. He is one of the all time greats, and keeps getting better. This recording delivers a great colection of his signature sounds and songs. Don't light a candle for this, you might knock it over dancing.

Greatest Rock/Blues Slide "Live" Album of All-Time.......2006-12-07

This thing is stupifyingly good.

I have all of Sonny's recordings. This is right up there with "The Road We're On" in quality. In fact, Grant Street has a couple of tunes from "Road": All About You and Gone Pecan. Of course, Sonny just blows the doors off in the live setting.

That stuff that people have said about Sonny being only an "OK" singer? I just laugh when I hear that. Forget about it. Sonny does just fine there, and anyway, it doesn't mean a thing. You see, quite simply this is some of the greatest guitar work you will EVER hear, so it's immaterial. The guitar playing is so utterly incredible that any singing that might take place is pretty much incidental. Sonny does two or three sublime instrumentals on Grant Street, and on the others he sings and throws out lightning bolts. This is not what you'd call subtle or delicate music; it's heavy blues with a strong dose of Louisiana Zydeco thrown in; every tune just ROCKS!

BUY THIS ALBUM AND PLAY IT LOUD! YOU WILL LOVE IT! BUY IT FOR ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS!

Couldn't be better.......2006-12-01

I don't think I've ever heard a tighter and more solid live recording, especially not one being performed by a three piece band. Excellent musicians, and you can't be anything but impressed by Sonny's skills as a guitar player. There ain't a bad song, but "Wind in Denver", "Blues Attack" and "Pedal to Metal" stands out. Highly recommended!

Average customer rating: Sonny Please sonny's back!! Hooked on a feeling THE PLEASING BY SONNY Inspired.

Sonny Please Sonny Rollins Manufacturer: Emarcy / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sound Grammar Pilgrimage With Love - Charles Tolliver Big Band Back East From The Plantation To The Penitentiary ASIN: B000IMV4FA Release Date: 2007-01-23

Tracks:

1. Sonny, Please
2. Someday I'll Find You
3. Nishi
4. Stairway to the Stars
5. Remembering Tommy
6. Serenade
7. Park Palace Parade

Amazon.com

Now in his mid-70s, Sonny Rollins plays with undiminished passion on this, his first new studio recordings in five years. Sonny, Please also marks a turning point in Rollins's life: his wife died in 2004, and he soon thereafter departed Milestone Records to set up his own Doxy imprint, ending one of the longest artist-label relationships in jazz. Playing selections that date back to his youth (such as Noël Coward's "Someday I'll Find You," on which he rolls out melodic lines as if from a beautiful and endless spool) as well as his own originals, the set flows with the compelling vigor of a giant who carries himself with the utmost humility. A powerful soloist, Rollins has seen the years bring even more depth to his musical explorations. As part of a supple sextet, his lines dance around the trombone of Clifton Anderson (who also produced the set) with grace and invention. --David Greenberger

Album Description

Tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins releases Sonny, Please -his first studio recording in five years - on Emarcy / Doxy Records, his own label. The album was released digitally on November 21, with the traditional CD release date set for January 23, 2007. The new CD captures his working band "at a good pitch," as he puts it. "Anytime you do a string of performances, it tightens up the ensemble, and the band was playing well-very high-powered." The album is a mix of Rollins originals and indelible standards, including the assertive title track which takes its name from "something my wife [Lucille] always used to say: `Sonny, Please!'" "Sonny is really playing on this record," concurs Clifton Anderson, Rollins's longtime trombonist who also served as the new CD's producer. "Each track has its own beautiful distinction, yet there's a clear continuity throughout the recording." In addition to Anderson, the group is comprised of bassist Bob Cranshaw, an esteemed Rollins collaborator since 1959; guitarist Bobby Broom and drummer Steve Jordan, both of whom had worked with Sonny on prior occasions in the 1980s; and the percussionist Kimati Dinizulu, who joined the band six years ago. Rollins won the Grammy in 2001 for This Is What I Do and again in 2005 for "Why Was I Born?" (from Without A Song -The 9/11 Concert), in the Best Jazz Instrumental Solo category. In addition, Sonny received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in 2004 and was inducted into the Academy of Achievement in 2006.

Customer Reviews:

Sonny Please.......2007-06-08

Sonny Please~ Sonny Rollins is a good jazz album with the "immortal" saxophone player Sonny Rollins. I am not a total jazz fan and I can therefore not say that I absolutely loved this album. Still and all one can not deny genius when one hears and Mr Rollins is definitely that. Being a more casual listener I view it as great background music and I view jazz this way. As something that you turn on after a hard day at work, open a cold beer and relax.

sonny's back!!.......2007-04-11

i haven't finished listening to this cd, it's playing as i type now. much that i've heard lacking in a lot of recordings from the late 70s when mr rollins seemed to be exploring a more popular sound for younger audiences has been recaptured and reshaped, that tone and timbre, his big, full sound, the wonderful improvisation, the sly americana references, the calypso blends, it's all here.

and my best regards to the group, bob cranshaw on bass, steve jordan on drums, bobby broom-guitar, kimati dinizulu-percussionist, and to clifton anderson on trombone, who really knows what it's all about.

Hooked on a feeling.......2007-03-22

an outstanding CD that you'll love playing over and over. amazing how Sonny keeps reinventing himself.

THE PLEASING BY SONNY .......2007-03-14

THE SAXAPHONE OF SONNY ROLLINS IS THE BEST THAT IS ON THE USA SIDE OF THE PLANET.

Inspired........2007-03-11

Now in his late 70s, tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins is still - on the evidence of this seven-track CD, recorded just over a year ago - as commanding a player as ever.
Original compositions, including a lovely tribute to the late pianist Tommy Flanagan and the catchy "Park Palace Parade", sit alongside some unusual and inspired choices - Noel Coward's ballad "Someday I'll Find You" (which Rollins previously recorded in the 1950s) is given the strident sax treatment, as is the little-known "Serenade".
Overall a good listen, though hardly vintage Rollins.

Average customer rating: Excellent service Best Burlesque cd ever Strip Tease Classics Great Collection! delightful kitsch that will make you wiggle what you've got

Take It Off! Strip Tease Classics David Rose & his Orchestra , Sonny Lester & his Orchestra , and Bobby Summers Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Swing Jazz & Big Band | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music 1950s | By Decade | Pop | Styles | Music 1960s | By Decade | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music 1960-1969 | Decades | Compilations | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music 1950-1959 | Decades | Compilations | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music R&B | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Jazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Tease!: The Beat of Burlesque Striptease - The Greatest Exotic Dancers of All Time Best of Burlesque Strip Jointz: Hot Songs for Sexy Dancers Burlesque and the New Bump-N-Grind ASIN: B0000033ZA Release Date: 1997-04-01

Tracks:

1. The Stripper - David Rose & His Orchestra
2. For Strippers Only
3. Shivas Regal (Theme For Gypsy)
4. A Pretty Girl Is LIke A Melody
5. Lament
6. Blues To Strip By
7. Walkin' & Strippin'
8. Bumps & Grinds
9. Lonely Little G-String
10. Big Millie From Philly
11. The Late Late Show
12. Perfume And Pink Chiffon
13. Swingin' Shepherd Blues
14. Lullaby Of Birdland
15. More Bumps And Grinds
16. Strip Poker
17. Stripper's Holiday
18. A Woman
19. Play The Blues For Masie
20. How Mable Get Sable Cha Cha Cha
21. Take It Off - Genteels
22. Pad - Bobby Summers

Album Description

A musical celebration of the romantic and sensual art of the striptease, serving as a much-needed reminder that the age-old "art form" can be playful and fun for everyone above the age of consent! The only compilation of its kind, featuring a lenticular cover - just tilt the CD case and witness the illusion of a sweet yet sexy woman shedding her dress to reveal lingerie. For lovers only!

Customer Reviews:

Excellent service.......2006-11-04

The jewel case was cracked on the original so they sent a new jewel case along with it. it was shipped and arrived before it was expected.

Best Burlesque cd ever.......2006-11-03

This has fast become my absolute favourite CD ever. It's a blast to dance to . So much fun. Also it is a fabulous background disk for some really fun dinner parties. There was not a single track I dodn't like. It has gone on my MUST BUY lost for all my friends with up coming nuptials. A very very good honey moon soundtrack :)

Strip Tease Classics.......2006-09-21

The first time I listened to this CD, I wasn't very impressed. But, after listening to it a few more times, some of the tracks began to grow on me. It's definitely the classic burlesque sound I was looking for, very classy - nothing like the beat-heavy songs of modern strip tease. Basically, think Betty Paige, Dita Von Tease, or Vienna Le Rouge. It's great for cocktail parties, with a wonderful vintage sound.

Great Collection!.......2006-06-08

If you are just beginning burlesque, you are going to love this compilation. You'll start bumping, grinding, and shimmying without even realizing it. The only problem is that everyone else who performs loves it too! The liner notes feature inspiring photos, and the text offers just enough history to tantalize you into exploring more. It features mostly instrumentals, and the absence of lyrics will emphasize your dance technique.

delightful kitsch that will make you wiggle what you've got.......2006-06-05

I'm not as hip to the burlesque's history as the previous reviewer, so I wasn't disappointed in the least. On the contrary, I thought this album was great -- lively, fun, and definitey kitschy.

One note -- although the disc plays great in my stereo, it's never cooperated with my laptop. Perhaps it's something particular to my disc, but I thought it would be worth mentioning.

Average customer rating: Comprehensive overview of the ATCO years (first phase of their career) Help About the recording company THE SAGA CONTINUES The important sixties hits

The Beat Goes On: The Best of Sonny & Cher Sonny & Cher Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Similar Items: Cher and Sonny & Cher - Greatest Hits (1974) The Mamas & the Papas - Greatest Hits The Very Best of the Rascals I Got You Babe & Other Hits The Very Best Of Cher ASIN: B000002JOV Release Date: 1991-11-05

Tracks:

1. Baby Don't Go
2. Just You
3. Sing C'est La Vie
4. I Got You Babe
5. Why Don't They Let Us Fall In Love
6. Laugh At Me
7. But You're Mine
8. The Revolution Kind
9. What Now My Love
10. Have I Stayed Too Long
11. Leave Me Be
12. Little Man
13. Living For You
14. Love Don't Come
15. The Beat Goes On
16. Beautiful Story
17. It's The Little Things
18. My Best Friend's Girl Is Out Of Sight
19. Good Combination
20. I Got You Babe ('Good Times' Soundtrack Version)
21. Hello

Amazon.com essential recording

Sonny Bono was a record-biz vet by the time he hooked up with a teenaged female singer named Cher. After a 1963 flop under the name Caesar and Cleo, the pair clicked with "I Got You Babe," a leap onto the folk-rock bandwagon that made them America's favorite pseudohippies for a brief moment. Cher's less-than-dulcet tones never sounded better than when placed next to Sonny's nasal croak. As for Sonny himself, his solo protest work--including "Laugh at Me," later covered by Mott the Hoople--is excerpted here. There are no words. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

Comprehensive overview of the ATCO years (first phase of their career).......2007-07-01

I listened to this CD (again) in its entirety last night. This is an excellent compilation of Sonny & Cher's best songs from their ATCO years (1965-1967). The packaging is top-notch, and the essay by Ken Barnes is informative and entertaining.

For a die-hard fan like me, this is a five-star set. But for the sake of objectivity, I'm willing to look beyond my die-hardedness and to put myself in the shoes of the casual listener. There are 21 songs in this collection, 14 of which were chart hits. (Think about it: 14 charted songs in 3 years!!!) The collection would work far-more successfully for the casual listener if only the chart hits were included. (So, if you're not a die-hard fan, consider this a four-star set.)

For the die-hards, though, this is an excellent historical overview of their career. There are three Sonny solo songs: the top 10 hit "Laugh At Me," and the follow-up "The Revolution Kind" and his ultimate camp classic "My Best Friend's Girl Is Out of Sight." There's a rare B-side, "Hello," from 1965, which is throw-away filler to be sure, but a Sonny & Cher throw-away!! And also a brief public service announcement with Sonny & Cher encouraging kids to "stay cool, go back to school."

My hair stands on end whenever I read that Sonny's talent was "limited." Who's isn't? Think of what this man accomplished, however. He had a knack for writing commercial hits that had addictive hooks and lyrics. Some of his lesser-known songs aren't as "good" as his hits, but so what? Out of the 14 chart hits Sonny & Cher amassed that are on this collection, he wrote (or co-wrote) 12 of them. That ain't bad, is it? (And that is not counting the hits that came about in the second phase of their career in the early '70s, either.)

I've written in another review that their voices blended together beautifully, especially in this inital phase of their career. I'm always taken aback by their duets. "The Beat Goes On: The Best of Sonny & Cher" is expertly-compiled collection of their best work together.

Help .......2007-03-11

Help! I'm trapped inside a Sonny & Cher review and I don't know how I got here and I think I like it. A lot of time has gone by, kids, and there's not much left of the world that spawned this unholy coupling, but it is a suitable window into a certain side of Sixties culture that was so magnificently decayed and bankrupt, with music that is a precursor for, yes, the amazingly bad songs of the film "Ishtar" that . . . well, ok, I've said enough. You either know at this point to go forth or run, but I can say no more.

About the recording company.......2006-02-04

If you had Sonny & Cher records during their heyday like I did, you might remember that they recorded for the Atco label, a division of Atlantic Records.

Whenever I want to buy a CD of music from many years ago, I try to make sure that I don't get remakes (recordings that aren't the exact ones that we heard on the radio way back when). Most artists re-record their songs for cheesy remake labels and, trust me, you'll be disappointed with them.

I read all the owner reviews at Amazon and, many times, a CD buyer will let you know that the CD you're considering buying has newer recordings or, just as bad, live concert recordings of songs. For instance, Joan Baez's big hit song "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" was on the Vanguard label when it was a hit song. But she defected to A&M Records soon after and A&M has a greatest hits package that includes songs from her Vanguard days--but they're live concert recordings. You have to look for the Vanguard label so you get the recording that you remember from the radio--they still retain the rights to the songs she recorded for them.

Also, you would think you could trust Capitol Records every bit as much as A&M. But I was looking at Andrews Sisters' CDs recently and noticed that 2 different labels offer their greatest hits--MCA and Capitol. Fortunately, an Amazon reviewer said that Capitol's compilation contains newer recordings that the Andrews Sisters recorded in the 50's. I bought MCA's CD and was not disappointed.

So, you can see that this Sonny & Cher CD is on the label "Elektra/WEA". Other Web sites list this same CD as "Rhino/WEA". One Web site just says "Rhino".

I just received this CD and the label is REALLY "Atco", the label Sonny & Cher recorded all their hits for in the 60's. Therefore, these songs are the actual recordings you remember from the 60's.

By the way, anytime you see the Rhino label for a CD, you can buy it without any worry of remakes. I own many CDs from Rhino and I have never been stuck with a remade song. They license the legitimate recordings from the company that owns the rights to the songs.

Why 4 stars instead of 5? Not anyone's fault, really, but some songs on Sonny & Cher's CD don't sound too good. This is surely due to the aging of the master tapes. After all, they've been around 40 or more years!

THE SAGA CONTINUES.......2005-07-15

Having lived through the turbulent '60's, I occasionally turn to that era during times of drunkeness. This CD, however, holds a dear place in my heart unlike any other -- and a special story. In 1968, my old town of Hermann's Hermitage changed its name, after the unlikely arrival of Sonny and Cher. As the story goes, Sonny lost his bearings trying to get to a Chicago concert, was hoplessly lost on Interstate 65, and ended up on our Main Street. Needless to say, the entire town turned out and welcomed them. After indulging themselves on baked ham and scalloped potato dinners, the celebrities won everybody's heart with their gracious manners and creepy good looks. I was just a lad at the time, but I still remember the tearful farewells, and standing in the rain on the corner of Spring and Apple to wave at their magenta minibus as it puttered away to the Big Time. It was a magical night. Shortly afterwards, the city council changed the name of our town to "Sonny and Cherville", and voted to slap a one percent sales tax on beer and soft drinks -- which paid for a concrete statue of the singing duo in Monkee Park. Years later, hard times befell us during the Arab oil embargo of 1974. In order to save money on ink and letterhead space, the town had to relinquish the words "Sonny and" from its charter. We are now, simply, "Cherville". And sadly, the years have not been kind to the statue: Cher exploded one summer during a freak lightning storm, and vandals using Bondo elevated Sonny's feet six inches off the pedestal. He now looks like a punch-drunk Tom Selleck. Oh well.

This is a great CD.

The important sixties hits.......2005-06-02

This collection contains all of Sonny's important British and American hits (with and without Cher) from 1964 to 1967, although some minor hits are missing. The classic hits here are I got you babe (number one in Britain and America), Laugh at me (a Sonny solo), Just you, Baby don't go, What now my love, Little man (number one in several European countries) and The beat goes on. There are many other wonderful songs including Sing c'est la vie, which was number one in Belgium but didn't chart at all (maybe wasn't released) in Britain or America.

Cher's solo hits from the sixties are omitted from this collection - you must buy either a separate Cher collection, or a more comprehensive Sonny and Cher collection to obtain those. For a comprehensive collection of the music of Sonny and Cher, buy the European double CD Singles plus, which contains all of Sonny and Cher's hits, separately and together, up to 1974. It comes at a price but if you're only interested in the early part of Cher's career, you won't need a separate Cher compilation.

If you are looking primarily for Sonny and Cher's duets and aren't bothered about the absence of Cher's solo hits, this is a great single CD.

Average customer rating: Sonny James CD classic country is gold Quite possibly the best male voicalist in country music history ! The music is really enjoyable "Cover" versions, so what?

Sonny James - 20 All Time Greatest Hits Sonny James Manufacturer: Tee Vee Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Country | Styles | Music Nashville Sound | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music Similar Items: Complete Columbia & Monument Hits Ferlin Husky - Greatest Hits The Best of Stonewall Jackson Don Gibson - 18 Greatest Hits The Essential Jim Ed Brown & the Browns ASIN: B00006HICG Release Date: 2002-08-20

Tracks:

1. Young Love
2. You're The Only World I Know
3. Behind The Tear
4. Take Good Care Of Her
5. I'll Never Find Another You
6. It's The Little Things
7. Only The Lonley (Know The Way I Feel)
8. Heaven Says Hello
9. Since I Met You Baby
10. Endlessly
11. Born To Be With You
12. Running Bear
13. A World Of Our Own
14. It's Just A Matter Of Time
15. Don't Keep Me Hangin' On
16. Empty Arms
17. Bright Lights, Big City
18. That's Why I Love You
19. I'll Keep Holding On (Just To Your Love)
20. True Love's A Blessing

Customer Reviews:

Sonny James CD.......2007-06-13

Very good CD. Has a variety of music by Sonny James. Easy listening. Recommend to all.

classic country is gold.......2007-04-15

the music is great each and every time you listen to it

Quite possibly the best male voicalist in country music history !.......2007-02-24

Listening to Sonny James never gets old. I have bought thousands of CDs & albums, but Sonny's recordings tops them all. His voice is always in perfect pitch, easily reaching all of the notes without the slightest vocal strain; a feat very few artist can boast of. Being a vocalist & musician myself, I have admired Sonny's music since I was a child. His influence was the driving force that started my musical career and the ride has been wonderful & extremely rewarding. This CD represents some of Sonny's best. Sit back, give it a listen and enjoy some of the best music that has ever been recorded.

The music is really enjoyable.......2007-02-08

This is the first time I am listening to Sonny James' voice and surely I am not a wee bit disappointed. The songs are all good, the kinda music that I like listening to. As a fan of country legends like Jim Reeves, Don Williams, Marty Robbins, etc etc it definitely fits in this genre of music.

Overall, I am satisfied :-)

"Cover" versions, so what?.......2006-12-04

Many of the # 1 records by Sonny James were cover versions of other
artists indeed, but for some reason his versions were far more successful
than the originals on the C&W charts at least. Probably his mellow way of
singing and the easy-listening pleasure these melodies provoke, led to
that huge success of 16 # 1's in a row. Such a fact cannot be ignored by
those saying he was just a mere "cover version" artist. So what? He also
had a string of "own" hits so this discussion is totally out of place.

Average customer rating: Classic cover art, but the music is even better Saxophone, Bass and Drums make a great Trio. Perfect production. Way Out;Best I Must Have Been Sleeping.

Way Out West Sonny Rollins Manufacturer: Ojc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Tenor Madness Night At The Village Vanguard The Bridge Saxophone Colossus Freedom Suite ASIN: B000000YIQ Release Date: 1991-07-01

Tracks:

1. I'm An Old Cowhand
2. I'm An Old Cowhand (Alternate Take)
3. Solitude
4. Come, Gone
5. Come, Gone (Alternate Take)
6. Wagon Wheels
7. There Is No Greater Love
8. Way Out West
9. Way Out West (Alternate Take)

Amazon.com

Widely acknowledged as the most significant and accomplished tenor saxophonist in the world, Sonny Rollins's recording legacy is nothing short of extraordinary. Beginning as a sideman in the late-'40s, he worked with Charlie Parker, Fats Navarro, Bud Powell, Max Roach, Clifford Brown, Thelonious Monk, Art Blakey, and Miles Davis. Since recording his first date as a leader in 1954, Rollins has recorded dozens of albums for numerous labels, eventually settling in for a long stay on Milestone. Way Out West, recorded in 1957, is one of two superb albums cut for the small, California-based Contemporary label (the other is 1958's Sonny Rollins and the Contemporary Leaders). Although a consummate sideman, Rollins rarely seems at ease with his pianists on his own dates, and Way Out West's trio format, with bassist Ray Brown and drummer Shelly Manne, dispenses with that problem. The tenorman's playful humor is evident in the album's selections, which include such unlikely candidates as "Wagon Wheels" and "I'm an Old Cowhand"--both elevated to previously unimaginable heights. This is a remarkably confident album--relaxed, swinging, thoughtful and deeply satisfying. And just in case that's not enough, the cover photo, featuring Rollins in Stetson and holster with his horn on his hip, is about as cool as it gets. --Fred Goodman

Customer Reviews:

Classic cover art, but the music is even better.......2007-05-21

This album is routinely mentioned as a classic and one of Sonny Rollins's best. For whatever reason, that acclaim doesn't translate into the same popularity attained by Saxophone Colossus. Nevertheless, if you like Sonny Rollins's playing or jazz from the mid-to-late 50s then you should definitely put this one in your shopping cart.

Sonny was one of the big innovators of the saxophone trio format -- saxophone, bass, drums -- and this was his first recording with such a lineup. Getting rid of the piano has several implications. The first is that the harmonies become a lot less obvious to the listener without the piano banging out the chords every few seconds. The second is that there's a lot more pressure on the musicians --- particularly the saxophonist, but also the bassist -- to generate interest without using piano solos as a crutch. There's a lot more space to be filled in, and in the hands of lesser musicians this space would turn into gaping holes.

Fortunately, Sonny Rollins is one of jazz's greatest improvisers. The fact that he doesn't have to share solo space with a pianist on this recordings means he can let loose some brilliant, unfettered and uninterrupted improvisations. There's a LOT of Sonny's playing on this album. Sonny's notorious for the humor/wit in his playing and there's a ton of that here.

Sonny's companions on this date for Contemporary Records were bassist Ray Brown and drummer Shelly Manne. Manne was one of the premier drummers on the west coast and appeared on a lot of Contemporary sessions. Manne wasn't a "power drummer" like most of the drummers that appeared on Sonny's east coast recordings (Philly Joe Jones, Art Blakey, Elvin Jones, and Max Roach). That means that he's content to be an accompanist rather than an almost equal partner a la Max Roach.

The compositions offer a nice amount of variety. "I'm an Old Cowhand" is the kind of semi-cheesy tune that Sonny specializes at transforming and gives the album a great start. "Come, Gone" is just straight-up fast bebop. "Solitude" and "There Is No Greater Love" are intense ballad performances. "Wagon Wheels" is a medium-tempo jam, and "Way Out West" closes the album on a jaunty note. The overall mood is more mellow and introverted than Saxophone Colossus; the album was recorded in the middle of the night, so this is not surprising.

One annoying thing about some versions of this album is that the alternate takes are placed in the middle of the album (immediately following the masters), destroying the album's original sequence. I recommend looking for the now-out-of-print 20 bit remaster or any other version that places the alternates at the end of the album, where they belong. The alternate takes are actually fascinating to explore once you get to know the original album, as two of the tunes are given much longer explorations.

This album is highly recommended and an essential part of any collection. If you like Sonny in a trio format, other albums to check out are A Night at the Village Vanguard (Blue Note), The Freedom Suite (Riverside/OJC), and East Broadway Rundown (Impulse!). I'm probably forgetting some others. And of course, if you haven't heard Saxophone Colossus, be sure to pick that one up.

Saxophone, Bass and Drums make a great Trio. .......2006-10-26

Sonny Rollins, Ray Brown and Shelly Mann are all superb on this 71 minute album. It comprises 6 tunes; three of which have alternate takes added as bonus tracks. The originals and alternates are similarly compelling. Although my personnal favourite is Wagon Wheels, all 9 tracks are excellent.

The uncanny sense of space and the Western mood created by the trio make the cd great listening.

I am a big fan of Sonny Rollins and his happy, muscular, witty, rich and edgy sound. This album sees all three musicians in marvellous form, with the rhythm section brilliantly creating the illusion of movement.

I would recommend this as THE album to buy to begin a Sonny Rollins collection.

No words can adequately describe the treat that awaits you; however some may point in the right direction. They are; lyrical, witty, warm and imaginative. Way Out West is most original and is one of my favourite cds.

Perfect production........2006-08-31

It's Sonny Rollins trio. Can somebody play better in late 50's ? And perfect production too. Like band's playing in my living room. I love similar productions, it's the best in jazz. Only two songs are composed by Rollins, but no problem in his music is essantial his solo playing. No highlights, whole album is perfect with beautiful resourceful playing. Must for any true jazz fan.

Way Out;Best.......2005-12-15

Sonny Rollins appears to be at the top of his game on this album,he recorded in '57,with Shelley Manne on drums and Ray Brown on bass.I just don't understand why he felt he needed to take off '59 to '61 from public performing to practice on The Williamsburg Bridge before coming back with 'The Bridge';maybe seeing him on the bridge could beat 'Way Out West' and 'The Bridge',but nothing else could. I also can't understand why 'Way Out West' includes two takes of some of the tunes,beginning with
'I'm An Old Cowhand';it was brilliant on the first take...and the second..

I Must Have Been Sleeping........2005-10-08

Believe it or not, this reviewer has been a Jazz fan for years and surprisingly had never heard anything by Sonny Rollins until this week with the purchase of "Way Out West". I must say that listening to this album was like unlocking a door to a mansion (like my discovering of John Coltrane was) and there definitely will be more Sonny albums making their way to my collection soon.
With that out of the way, onto the music itself: "Way Out West" was recorded in 1957 and finds Rollins playing in a piano-less trio backed only by bassist Ray Brown and drummer Shelly Manne. The liner notes to the album state that the three musicians hadn't played together before until this recording session. You'd never know it by listening to this album though. Rollins, Brown and Manne play off each other effortlessly and are like six hands in a glove. It's as if they'd played together for years.
On the upbeat tracks, "I'm an Old Cowhand", "Come Gone" and the title track, Rollins and his trio really swing and leave plenty of space for improvisation and soloing. "Come Gone" is an especially prime example of this.
The same can be said for the slower ballad-oriented pieces. Sonny's take on Duke Ellington's "Solitude" is superb and soothing and is a real standout. "Wagon Wheels", while not neccesarily a ballad, is also a standout with its mid-tempo blues-like runs.
Besides the original tracks that made up the album, there are also three alternate takes tacked on as bonus tracks. The alternate version of "I'm An Old Cowhand" is arguably stronger than its master take and is also twice as long running at 10 minutes rather than five and a half. The alternates of "Come Gone" and the title track are performed in such a way that they almost become different pieces of music altogether. Rollins solo in the alternate "Come Gone" is more raspy and edgy which gives the impression that this take was recorded live in a club rather than a studio. It's fabulous too.
With that said, "Way Out West" is an excellent first choice for the emerging Sonny Rollins fan. The playing is excellent and the musicianship is flawless. The only minor complaint is that the bonus alternate takes are presented on the CD after their master take counterparts (example: The master take of I'm An Old Cowhand is immediately followed by its alternate take as is "Come, Gone" and "Way Out West"). They should have been sequenced at the end of the disc following the original album tracks. Apart from that, who really cares? This is a great album with great music on it.
Essential!!

Average customer rating: A classic Poor remaster of a great album Brilliant album--problem w/RVG though RVG Remaster...Defective.

Saxophone Colossus Sonny Rollins Manufacturer: Prestige ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Mingus Ah Um Somethin' Else Moanin' Giant Steps A Love Supreme ASIN: B000EGDAI4 Release Date: 2006-03-21

Tracks:

1. St. Thomas
2. You Don't Know What Love Is
3. Strode Rode
4. Moritat
5. Blue 7

Amazon.com

Though he lacked the improvisational fire of John Coltrane or the restless curiosity of Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins played with a rich, round tone that complemented his melodic inclinations, making him the most accessible of the postbop musicians. Saxophone Colossus is the most successful of the late 1950s albums that made his reputation. Rollins's playing never falters; he's backed by the redoubtable Max Roach on drums, Tommy Flanagan on piano, and Doug Watkins on bass. Rollins is equally at home with the lilting Caribbean air of "St. Thomas," standards ("You Don't Know What Love Is"), blues ("Strode Rode," featuring a driving Flanagan solo), and a smoldering version of Brecht-Weill's "Moritat" (better known as "Mac the Knife"). If you are new to jazz, there is no better place to start than Saxophone Colossus. --Steven Mirkin

Customer Reviews:

A classic.......2007-04-15

The other customer reviews of this CD criticize the audio quality, but they overlook the fact that this recording is a CLASSIC by any standard. While any criticism of the remastering may be valid, don't pass up this historic work by a true master.

Poor remaster of a great album.......2007-01-20

Wait until this album is reissued again. It would be a shame for anyone to buy this and get the wrong impression. The masters for this reissue are apparently poor on the 4th track Moritat. Returning it to Amazon won't help, the disk is fine, the master is bad. Concord (or perhaps some other company with a little more attention to quality control) should recall these, remaster it and try again.

Brilliant album--problem w/RVG though.......2006-09-21

The brilliance of this album has been stated many times by people with more jazz knowledge than me. However I thought I should echo what the other reviewer states here: there are some minor problems with this disc. Specifically, there is a flutter on the 4th track "Moritat." I thought I heard it 3-4 different times. It doesn't ruin the music, but you might be tempted to return the disc. The RVG series is stellar so I'm assuming it's a problem with the masters. If that's not the problem then it may be in the manufacturing. Mildly disappointing...

I would like to put in a quick mention of the genius of Max Roach. His technique on the ride cymbal is revolutionary. I could write an essay on it myself! All in all, this is one of my all-time favorite jazz albums.

RVG Remaster...Defective........2006-08-15

I've tried two copies of this new Rollins (RVG) remaster. The left channel flutters and fades in the same places throughout both discs (e.g., track four, 2:20 - 2:30). I've heard from third parties that this is a problem with the master tapes. I find it makes the reissue distracting and unlistenable.

Average customer rating: A Power Trio!!! unlike coupling Raw Powerful Sonny...Awesome ! Pretty great, but... Anticipation Of Things To Come

Night At The Village Vanguard Sonny Rollins 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 Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Bebop | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music Blue Note Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Bebop | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Modern Post Bop | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Way Out West The Bridge Thelonious Monk Quartet with John Coltrane at Carnegie Hall Tenor Madness Soul Station ASIN: B00000K4GJ Release Date: 1999-09-14

Tracks:

1. A Night In Tunisia
2. I've Got You Under My Skin
3. A Night In Tunisia (Evening Take)
4. Softly As In A Morning Sunrise (Alternate Take)
5. Four
6. Introduction
7. Woody 'N' You
8. Introduction
9. Old Devil Moon

Tracks:

1. What Is This Thing Called Love
2. Softly As In A Morning Sunrise
3. Sonnymoon For Two
4. I Can't Get Started
5. I'll Remember April
6. Get Happy
7. Striver's Row
8. All The Things You Are
9. Get Happy (Short Version)

Amazon.com

In 1957, Sonny Rollins was at an early creative peak, already a masterful improviser who could range from hard-bitten bop blues to broad or sly humor, all conveyed with a swaggering virtuosity and bullying warmth. One of the first jazz musicians to develop the extended solo, Rollins would turn tunes inside out rhythmically, often building a solo around complex variations on a tune's melody. The Vanguard recordings come from a period when Rollins found maximum freedom in a trio pared down to the essentials of tenor, bass, and drums, and the multiple takes here testify to his fluent invention. Disc 1 of this set is highlighted by two takes of "A Night in Tunisia," the first recorded at a matinee with bassist Donald Bailey and drummer Pete LaRoca, the second and faster version at the evening performance with regular accompanists bassist Wilbur Ware and drummer Elvin Jones. The second CD continues the evening performance with Ware and Jones. It's a uniquely gifted threesome, with each musician seeming to invent new ways to swing, without a note or a musical opportunity wasted. Both Rollins and Ware reveal their relationship to Thelonious Monk in the ability to create complex, arresting music out of shifts in rhythmic inflections. It's especially apparent in the second version of "Softly as in a Morning Sunrise." In this context, Jones has an opportunity to show just how melodic a drummer he was. The two versions of "Get Happy" demonstrate Rollins's ability to make complex and witty music out of the most banal material, while "What Is This Thing Called Love" is a tour de force of sustained group invention. --Stuart Broomer

Album Description

The mid-fifties was an astonishing period for this saxophone genius. And for all his great work in this era, this daring album and "Saxophone Colossus" remain his crowning achievements. With just bass (Wilbur Ware) and drums (Elvin Jones) in support, Rollins creates tenor saxophone improvisations of increible beauty and inexhaustible creativity. Twenty years after the initial album, a double album containing the rest of the releasable material from this magic night at the Village Vanguard was issued. With the recent re-discovery of the original tapes, the performance has been assembled as it happened and beautifully remastered by original engineer with superb depth of sound. Several of Sonny's stage announcements have been added to master for the first time.

Customer Reviews:

A Power Trio!!!.......2007-03-18

It's almost hard to fathom that it's been almost 50 years since Sonny Rollins recorded the historic "Night At The Village Vanguard" for Blue Note. Even half a century later, this jaw-dropping performance still leaves one awestruck by it's beauty and power.
Even as far back as 1957, Sonny Rollins was experimenting with different ensemble configurations and at the Village Vanguard, unveiled a combo that was unique for its time - a tenor sax/bass/drums trio which already proved to be successful on "Way Out West" from earlier in the year. Because of the lack of any chordal instruments, the musical interplay between Rollins, bassist Wilbur Ware and a rising star drummer in the form of Elvin Jones is extremely tight and each musician is given plenty of space to stretch out without going too far off the deep end.
Every piece included in this set is a gem. It's almost like being there in the middle of the Village Vanguard listening to the Rollins trio giving their all. Even the early take of "A Night In Tunisia" which features Donald Bailey and Pete LaRoca in the place of Ware and Jones is a sure-fire performance.
"A Night At The Village Vanguard" is definitely a must for Sonny Rollins fans as well as anyone who appreciates Jazz. The remastering by original recording engineer Rudy Van Gelder is absolutely stunning although there is a slight amount of undistracting tape hum heard occasionally.
Four years later, John Coltrane would record a legendary album at the Vanguard which would make the venue a household name. However, it should be noted that not only was Sonny's recorded first, it was also the first ever recording to be made at the Village Vanguard.
Definitely Essential Sonny Rollins!!!

unlike coupling.......2006-03-17

Curiosity has driven me to buy this double,live CD set,and after repeated listening, I'm afraid my expectations were a little too far from reality. I was, in fact convinced that Elvin Jones drums would have made a heck of a match to Rollins 'out of tune',loose sound,yet this isn't the case on these sessions. Apart from a couple of tracks('A night in Tunisia',disc1 and partly in 'What is this thing called love',disc2)Elvin hasn't fully developed,yet the rythm machine he was in the John Coltrane quartet. If I didn't hear Rollins mentioning the drummer in his presentations(or read about it in the booklet)I would have thought Max Roach,at best, was on drums or perhaps someone less recognizable,to my ear, like Louis Hayes or Art Taylor. Anyhow, the school of the time wasn't that bad,was it? I am more familiar with Sonny Rollins studio recordings of his later stage,and in this set,probably because of playing in the temple of live Jazz,or maybe because of performing with his newly formed combo, I can feel more care has been put to lessen mistakes, than to express musicality freely.
In any case I've liked the versions of 'A night in Tunisia' with saxophone,as opposed to the ones I know by Art Blakey's ensembles,with the trumpet. And I love the unique out of tune sound of Rollins' sax anyway: standard bop, though for this one.

Raw Powerful Sonny...Awesome !.......2005-03-31

Man, from the very first notes of night in tunisia this is just nail you to the wall music. I think this set captures the young Sonny Rollins in rare form and should not be missed. The drummer Pete Larocca in a different life could have been an arena rock drummer. He's got a straightahead pound it out style that works beautifully on this set. Lisen to what these guys do with an old warhorse like Got You under My Skin" As they run chorus afer chorus with tempo changes and different feels. I love this CD and think that it captures Sonny Rollins at a time when his art was blossoming. Highest reccomendation.

Pretty great, but..........2004-07-19

is it just me or is Elvin's drumming kinda sloppy on this album?

Anticipation Of Things To Come.......2004-06-20

At some point in 1956 Sonny Rollins developed from being a promising new voice on the tenor saxophone to one of the great jazz improvisers. From then until his temporary withdrawal from the jazz scene at the end of the decade he produced a series of fine recorded sessions, including a classic album aptly titled `Saxophone Colossus'. This Village Vanguard recording from 1957 is valuable for capturing Rollins in good form in a live setting accompanied only by bass and drums. Of additional interest is that the drummer was another jazz colossus treading his own path to greatness: Elvin Jones.

As these were live sessions, it's not surprising if some of Sonny's playing here is sometimes more diffuse than in the more tightly constructed pieces on his studio albums from this period. Nevertheless there is a lot of inspired and energetic playing here. Tracks such as "Sonnymoon for Two", "Softly as in a Morning Sunrise" and "A Night in Tunisia" are often singled out as highlights; but I haven't yet come across any appreciation of "What Is This Thing Called Love?" as the most remarkable performance. This track reminds me of two other Rollins classics: "There's No Business Like Show Business" (on the earlier album, `Worktime') and "Three Little Words" (`Sonny Rollins on Impulse' - 1965). Like them it shows Sonny paring down and reconstructing a well-known standard with characteristic resourcefulness and wit, playing with motifs from the tune and with time and phrasing, and managing to sound both supremely relaxed and intensely concentrated at a moderately fast tempo. Notice how at the beginning he exploits the lack of a piano accompaniment to create harmonic ambiguity: by playing with just a few notes from the tune he teasingly hides its identity for a few bars (it sounds at first as though he is going to launch into "Toot, Toot, Tootsie").

Here and there on these sessions, but particularly on "What Is This Thing Called Love?" you can also hear Elvin Jones beginning to cut loose from his influences and to anticipate the kind of percussion playing he was to develop in the next few years, reaching a peak in his work with John Coltrane in the 1960s. For example, on this track he already shows that ability both to maintain the basic pulse and to appear to subvert it with the use of complex polyrhythms. This begins to happen during Sonny's solo and becomes increasingly adventurous in Elvin's. There is a particularly telling moment at the end of Elvin's long solo, when, after the original tempo seems to have been lost in a succession of polyrhythms, Rollins comes back in, immediately picking up the original tempo as if both players had rehearsed it down to the fraction of a beat. If it weren't for that moment when Sonny re-establishes control, one could suppose that on this track Elvin is the leader, taking the music where he wants it to go (it is he who has the first as well as the last word!). So for different reasons I think this track is the `classic' of the album and one which gives an intriguing anticipation of things to come - not only of Elvin's later work with Coltrane and others but also of the increasingly abstract style which Sonny was to develop in the next decade.

To describe these performances as `dialogues' between Sonny and Elvin would be to unfairly slight the contribution of bassist Wilbur Ware who plays well throughout, reliably maintaining the trio's harmonic foundation, and produces some good melodic motifs in his solos on "Softly as in a Morning Sunrise". But it's fair to say that his more conventional playing helps to set in relief the occasional glimpses into the future we get from his partners.

Whether as an historical document or in its own terms as an exhilarating blowing session, this is a highly recommended album. The sound is mono only, but for a club date is good - clear, realistic and well balanced between the three instruments.

The only other collaboration between Sonny and Elvin that I know of is the mid-1960s album, `East Broadway Rundown'. You might not like the long `free jazz' title track, but the remaining two excellent trio tracks are available on a CD in the Priceless Jazz series, along with some other good Rollins performances from the period (Priceless Jazz GRP98762- see my Amazon review).

International Music:

1. Sol En Si V.1 [Import]
2. Sound from the Cloudland
3. Speciale Sanremo 1999 [Import]
4. Stance [Import]
5. Super Summer Vibration [CD-single] [Import]
6. The Best Ever Scottish Compilation
7. The Magic of Scotland
8. The Polka Variety Show
9. The Spirit of Scotland
10. Those Sensational Irish Showbands [Import]

International Music

International Music