Arts of the Balalaika [Import]

1. All The Gossips Left For Home

2. Variations On Themes Of Two Russian Folk Song

3. Expanses Of My Homeland

4. Russian Intermezzo

5. Kalinka

6. Evenings Near Moscow

7. What's That Ringing?

8. Memory Waltz

9. Glory

10. Bright Moon

11. Down The Long Road

12. Gypsy Fantasy

Arts of the Balalaika,Odessa Balalaikas,Wea,World Music

Average customer rating: His best stuff yet. Extremely Funny The Man Never Disappoints

Werewolves and Lollipops (W/DVD) Patton Oswalt Manufacturer: Sub Pop ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Comedy | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Comedians of Comedy / Live at the El Rey (Patton Oswalt / Brian Posehn / Maria Bamford / Zach Galifianakis) Shiny Happy Jihad How to Win! Zach Galifianakis - Live at the Purple Onion The Else ASIN: B000RGSOM8 Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

1. Here We Go
2. America Has Spoken
3. Beautiful People And A Bridge Troll
4. Clean Filth
5. Miracle Of Childbirth, The
6. You Are Allowed 20 Birthday Parties
7. Dukes Of Hazzard, The
8. Alternate Earth
9. Best Week Never
10. Physics For Poets
11. At Midnight I Will Kill George Lucas With A Shovel
12. Bubble Of Sanity
13. Sterling, Virginia
14. Racist Cell Phones
15. Best Baby In The Universe, The
16. Married & Single
17. I Tell A Story About Birth Control And Deal With A Retarded Heckler
18. Great Food Is Cooked By Psychos
19. Wackity Schmackity Doo!
20. Death Bed
21. Cirque Du Soleil

Amazon.com

On his second "solo" album, this stand-up comic and character actor proves himself to be not just a foul-mouthed everyman and an unrepentant geek, but a rather awesome wordsmith as well. That a comedian might rant about how "Cirque du Soleil is like catnip for old people" or the ridiculous unhealthiness of a popular item at the fast food chain KFC is not surprising. That he'd call the fast food item "a failure pile in a sadness bowl" is, let's face it, pure poetry (and really, actually funny the way he tells it). On the track "I Tell a Story About Birth Control and Deal with a Retarded Heckler," Patton displays some of the finest manipulation of a disturbing audience member you'll ever hear. That the album was released by Sub Pop makes perfect sense, as Patton not only has Catholic music tastes--tossing off references to Hasil Adkins, the Pixies, Minor Threat, and Roky Erickson--but as we all know, stand-up is "the new grunge." --Mike McGonigal

Album Description

Patton has been a stand-up comedian for almost twenty years and this is his second CD. Lazy...or maybe busy. He's appeared in over twenty movies, including "Magnolia", "Reno 911!: Miami", and the documentary "The Comedians Of Comedy", which he also created and produced. He played Spence on "The King Of Queens" for nine seasons, is a regular on "Reno 911!", a frequent guest on Conan and Jimmy Kimmel, and a recurring voice actor on "Kim Possible", "SpongeBob SquarePants", "Aqua Teen Hunger Force", and "Crank Yankers". He's a regular columnist in the NY Times Magazine and was an uncredited writer on the "Borat" movie. He's also the lead voice in this summer's Pixar movie, "Ratatouille", playing a rat named Remy. This is his first CD on Sub Pop and it includes a DVD with one hour of stand-up.

Customer Reviews:

His best stuff yet........2007-07-14

Patton is just getting better and better. Absurd without being wacky. Smart without being pretentious. Political without being preachy.

This is his best album yet. Buy it.

Immediately.

Extremely Funny.......2007-07-13

Patton Oswalt is extremely funny. Not just a little funny - EXTREMELY funny. His material is intelligent & unforgettable and this CD is worth every penny.

The Man Never Disappoints.......2007-07-12

Brilliant. That's all I can say. I don't want to even talk about the content because I would not want to spoil a single moment if you haven't heard it yet. It's great. If you love Patton's work, you will love the cd/dvd. Buy this instead of wasting your time watching "Last Comic Standing".
And if you ever get a chance, check out Patton live or check out a Comedians of Comedy tour. Oswalt, Brian Posehn, Zach G., Eugene Mirman, Morgan Murphy, Eddie Pepitone are the best comedians working today and also some of the most gracious people you will ever meet. Buy this cd now!

Average customer rating: Stellar Performance Nostalgia Best Classical CD bargain on Amazon, IMHO Cheap? Only in price Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade; Capriccio Espagnol; Russian Easter Overture Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Hollywood Bowl Symphony Orchestra | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Rimsky-Korsakov, Nikolai | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Hollywood Bowl Symphony Orchestra | ( H ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto Op35; Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Op77 Symphonie Fantastique Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance Marches Op. 39; Enigma Variations Op. 36 Borodin: Symphony No.2/In The Steppes Of Central Asia/Prince Igor Bach: Brandenburg Concertos No. 1-4; Neville Marriner; Academy of St. Martin in the Fields ASIN: B000000UW0 Release Date: 1995-10-17

Tracks:

1. Scheherazade - Symphonic Suite, Op. 35: The Sea And Sinbad's Ship
2. Scherherazade - Symphonic Suite, Op. 35: The Story Of The Kalandar Prince
3. Scheherazade - Symphonic Suite, Op. 35: The Young Prince And The Young Princess
4. Scheherazade - Symphonic Suite, Op. 35: Festival At Bagdad - The Sea - The Ship Goes To Pieces On A Rock Surmounted By A Bronze Warrior - Conclusion
5. Russian Easter Overture, Op. 36
6. Capriccio espagnol: Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34

Customer Reviews:

Stellar Performance.......2007-06-27

Having been a professional violinist and pianist for thirty years, I have developed a special appreciation for classical music. Scheherezade is one of the great orchestral pieces. This version clearly highlights the great skill of the composer and the orchestra. All the pieces on this cd are performed at a high skill level and the recording quality is excellent. It is on a par with the great performances by other orchestras, and I highly recommend it.

Nostalgia.......2007-06-27

My father was a classical musician in the days when every major theater had a pit orchestra of concert-level musicians. Boris Morros, a Russian born impresario paid tribute to them, saying: "the impact of these luxurious film theaters on the culture of America has never been properly emphasized. In one of our marble movie temples every tired scrub-lady could feel like a queen--for fifty cents--and every bootblack like a king as they lounged back in more comfortable chairs than monarchs ever enjoyed. I was impressed by the ever-growing popularity of the so-called good music the large symphony orchestras in these theaters played at each performance. From the day they opened they had thrilled audiences of ordinary people (who were supposed to have appreciation only for ragtime and sentimental ballads) with first-rate renditions...." Anyway, when those theaters and orchestras went, the substitute was a cult of mediocrity, so I was just indulging myself listening to all the horn work in Korsakov and remembering all those 'good ol days.'

Best Classical CD bargain on Amazon, IMHO.......2007-03-29

I'm surprised this CD isn't displayed on the Classical Blowout store. Perhaps it's *too* good a bargain? I purchased this CD for one piece: The Story Of The Kalandar Prince. My children and I love this work, as it is orchestrated like a story ("tone poem" is the correct term I think) - insert your imagination as to how it plays out.

This a wonderful CD to play on a cold winter night, with a roaring fire and a glass of wine. If you want a fine introduction to the 'oomph' of Easter European composers, you can do no wrong with this CD. I also recommend the Edwin Elgar Pomp & Circumstance CD from this bargain Seraphim collection.

Cheap? Only in price.......2007-02-22

First - how can one go wrong buying this cd at this price? The answer is - one cannot go wrong buying this cd at this price. Not even at three times this price. It's a lush recording and is every bit as good as anything recorded yesterday in a state of the art studio. At least some people have never heard of Rimsky-Korsakov. This is a cheap way to be introduced nicely. Others have these pieces by three or four different orchestras. Add this one - you'll be glad you did if for no other reason than when it arrives you'll listen once again to music you've put away for some time.

It's truly wonderful.

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade.......2006-11-10

I love Russian composers. They have so much fire. I received the CD timely and in great condition. Thank you.

Average customer rating: A rock record with poppiness Smooth Well It Is If only I could play the cello ... Perfect in every way

Set Yourself on Fire Stars Manufacturer: Arts and Crafts ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Chamber Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Electronic Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Heart Nightsongs You Forgot It in People The Crane Wife Broken Social Scene ASIN: B00061F8M8 Release Date: 2005-03-08

Tracks:

1. Your Ex-Lover Is Dead
2. Set Yourself On Fire
3. Ageless Beauty
4. Reunion
5. The Big Fight
6. What I'm Trying To say
7. One More Night
8. Sleep Tonight
9. The First Five Times
10. He Lied About Death
11. Celebration Guns
12. Soft Revolution
13. Calendar Girl

Amazon.com

Sure they look pretty and sound pretty and all, but is this Montreal-based quartet ever going to amount to much, you know in the course of "rock history"? Very likely, if their captivating third album, Set Yourself on Fire, is any indication. Vocalists Amy Millan and Torquil Campbell have never harmonized better together, and the whole keyboard-heavy band is at that delectable place where they transcend their influences. Great pop music is not about "originality" (nor has it ever much been); it's a passionate marriage of idea and conviction. Sure, you can still hear the mark of Beulah, the Smiths, New Order, Broken Social Scene and Super Furry Animals in their songs. But the group has never been as confident with their marriage of lush, exuberant dreampop and dark, clever lyrics as they are here. --Mike McGonigal

Album Description

The third LP for this Canadian band, following their amazing sophomore set, "Heart;" a critical smash. "Set Yourself on Fire" is a self-proclaimed Sex, Death, & Robots record, with rich and ornate depths. Produced by TONY HOFFER (Beck, Air, Grandaddy, Phoenix).

Customer Reviews:

A rock record with poppiness.......2007-06-15

In many ways, a band like Stars, Broken Social Scene or the New Pornographers somehow manage to make very accessible records without feeling like they were recorded solely because they knew it would sell. Sure songs on this record are quite hooky yet you can instantly tell the difference between these songs or ones from say Good Charlotte or a Simple Plan. Stars last release before it got the remix treatment, Set Yourself on Fire is a very likable record and easy to sing along with and love, that is if you want to.

The album starts off with "Your Ex-Lover is Dead" with vocalists Torquil Campbell and Amy Millan trading verses before they come together at the end. This is an example of a song that gets in your head despite the lack of a proper "chorus" that repeats. "Ageless Beauty" was the big hit of the record and while musically it's quite basic, it's propelled largely by Millan's vocals which are quite ethereal in a way on the song. "Reunion" is another likable track largely sung by Campbell with Millan adding in some flavor. This is another one of those catchy tracks that will become a favorite over time. The rest of the songs are just as memorable although, some like "The First Five Times" aren't that stellar.

My absolute favorite track on the record and probably of their career is the album closer, "Calendar Girl". When taken at face value, lyrically it's very honest in that "life sucks but I'm trying" message and musically it's really 3 chords but damn if Millan doesn't sing it beautifully. When she sings the line "I'm alive" at the end, you're almost not sure if she's celebrating this fact or she's just pointing out the irony considering the subject matter: living without nothing special about it.

Like a lot of bands with duel vocalists, you tend to prefer one over the other (aside from everyone's fav Fab Four). In this case, Millan has one of the best female voices in rock today but Campbell, while no slouch in his own right, doesn't really have the emotive power Millan brings. Kind of reminds me of Oasis' Gallagher bros. with Noel being the more range-y singer but Liam being the most emotive. Granted, a lot of songs on here such as The Big Fight or Your Ex-Lover is Dead work for the trade-offs but when they're primarily Campbell-led, such as the aforementioned "First Five Times" or "He Lied About Death", despite Millan's additions, don't work as well.

All in all, it's probably one of the best records they've done and one of the better "pop rock" releases lately.

Smooth.......2007-03-02

It only took a couple of seconds listening to 'Your Ex-Lover is Dead' for me to decide that I needed to own this album. To be honest, that track stands out for its beautiful orchestration and tone. The instrumentation is well done, with a complementary mix of strings, brass, and your traditional band bits to create a beautiful, uplifting, and sombre tone.

Each song on this album is carefully produced to create a smooth tone which is mostly laidback and embracing. This is music fully imbued with uplifting melancholy.

Well It Is.......2007-02-03

This is a GREAT album if you like that sort of thing.

If only I could play the cello ... .......2007-01-12

I own every Stars albums and eps and I'd have to say they broke every expectation that I had before listen to this ... and this was only after the first 30 seconds of your ex-lover is dead.

Every song here is lyrically written with songs of love, passion, nostagia and hurt with a lush overlay of melodies. By the end of the album, you'll surrender and give yourself in to continual listens. This is the soft revolution!

You must own this album!

Perfect in every way.......2007-01-09

Seriously, this is one of the best I've purchased in a very long time. Every single song is great.

Average customer rating: Frantic, Beautiful - A Must Own So much yet so little Just Plain Broken You Forgot It In People One of the best albums of all time (believe it!)

You Forgot It in People Broken Social Scene Manufacturer: Arts & Crafts ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Lo-Fi | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Experimental Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Similar Items: Broken Social Scene Feel Good Lost Broken Social Scene Bee Hives Set Yourself on Fire ASIN: B00008RBJU Release Date: 2003-06-03

Tracks:

1. Capture the Flag
2. KC Accidental
3. Stars and Sons
4. Almost Crimes (Radio Kills Remix)
5. Looks Just Like the Sun
6. Pacific Theme
7. Anthems for a Seventeen Year-Old Girl
8. Cause=Time
9. Late Nineties Bedroom Rock for the Missionaries
10. Shampoo Suicide
11. Lover's Spit
12. I'm Still your Fag
13. Pitter Patter Goes My Heart

Album Description

Broken Social Scene materialized in 1999 when K.C. Accidental's Kevin Drew & Brendan Canning, formerly of By Divine Right, bonded their friendship into a band. During the next few years, Broken Social Scene created an atmospheric rock sound. Feel Good Lost marked their debut album in 2001 & introduced a revolving cast of Canadian indie musicians. Drew's fellow mate from Do Make Say Think was added to the band, as well as Evan Cranley (Stars), James Shaw, & Emily Haines (Metric). You Forgot It in People showcased Broken Social Scene's expansive musical design in October 2002. Digipak. Copy Controlled. Arts & Crafts.

Customer Reviews:

Frantic, Beautiful - A Must Own.......2007-07-09

I love this album. By the end of the introductory piece, you're not sure what to expect; a pretty, stagnant collection of songs from the guys who made Feel Good Lost? Then the second song, KC Accidental, begins.

An electric guitar is strummed quietly, deliberately, and for about ten seconds your suspicions seem to have been confirmed. Then the drums crash. The song's tempo and volume are immediately doubled; layers of guitar soar while the rhythm section plows ahead. After four measures of beautiful, breakneck instrumentation, the rest of the band crash like a wave, dissolving as the lone guitar continues strumming, louder but still deliberate. After four measures of this, the band returns at full speed. The push-and-pull between the single guitar and the rest of the band continues until finally it all breaks to make way for harmonizing strings and breathy, understated vocals.

You're not sure what you're hearing anymore, but one thing is clear - there is nothing stagnant about this music. It's as though Broken Social Scene takes for granted that the two aforementioned extremes of style should be considered a range within which a band may work. One song may explore its boundaries with feedback effects and a catchy, dominant bassline; the next may aspire to test the definition of cacophony with screeching guitars and vocals that are more shouted than sung. Yet another song croons the chorus "I'm still your fag" over pretty acoustic picking and brushed drums.

In short, this is one of the richest, frantically beautiful albums I own, and I recommend it to anyone. I promise that there will be something on this album for you to enjoy - for me, it's the whole thing.

So much yet so little.......2007-04-23

I grew up with The Police so take my opinion with a grain of salt but what I've heard of this album sums up what seems so wrong with this incarnation of indie rock. Too many possibilities for bands - all the effects and sub-syles replace what songwriting might be in there - they hit the Dinosaur-Jr style uptempos, grandiose strings / pianos build-ups, and psuedo-trip-hop cool-outs. On "Looks just like the Sun" a loopy, funky snare beat, acoustic guitar for mellowness and self-assured but weak vocals does not make a good song for me. The vocals just never make it beyond a vapid, quaalude style. The band reminds us their sweet studio also came with a banjo, a Rhodes piano, a real piano, and amps to mimic any guitar sound out there. I actually liked "Almost Crimes" and from another album "Hotel" and "7/4". But all in all this is well-played music that seems empty. I like overdubs and soundeffects just not the motives behind their use, and, well, overuse.

Just Plain Broken.......2007-02-06

1.) Arrangements relies too much on effects, not musically challenging or that interesting.
2.) Background ambient instrumentals are to imposing, they over power the main structure.
3.) Lyrically unsound and ridiculous.

You Forgot It In People.......2007-01-20

Broken Social Scene's trivial debut pastiche, "Feel Good Lost," gave no indication of the heights they would scale on "You Forgot It In People." Consisting of an expanded 12-member lineup culled from Montreal's experimental music sector, Broken Social Scene broke out of the gates with an exquisite pop gem whose plethora of smaller gems could have (and should have) topped the Billboard pop charts. It's full of contradictions--breezy yet dense, poppy yet challenging, intimate yet absolutely huge--but BSS make it all look easy, especially considering the multitudinous personnel involved. In fact, it flows out of the speakers so smoothly that it's difficult to believe that some of the band members had never written a four-minute song in their whole lives. We could have used something this vivacious, intelligent and easygoing five years prior, when grunge music was reaching its lowest introverted depths, but if Broken Social Scene had to flounder awhile in order to arrive here, so be it. And darn if "Cause=Time" isn't the best pop song I've heard since Junior High.

One of the best albums of all time (believe it!).......2006-09-17

These guys make creating incredible rock music appear easy. There's something incredibly natural about this album, and yet it feels wholly original. The songs are emotionally powerful and very well written, identifiying this as a standard indie rock album among the ranks of The Arcade Fire or Wolf Parade, but it also has a sense of groove and musicality to it that identifies it with almost a jazz/funk/jam-band aesthetic. I in no way mean to mislead people by making a connection between this CD and these other genres, because the sound of the album really has little to do with jazz, funk, or jam-bands, but it does demonstrate the power of this album and the skill of the musicians that they are able to strike a balance between a sense music-for-music's sake (as in tight grooves and great musicianship), which is primarly a concept associate with jazz, and concise, emotionally-loaded, structured songs that give this CD the strength of the indie rock albums we all know and love. This CD is enthralling, soft and gentle as a whisper, emotoinal, powerful, dreamy, and groovy. Its also remarkably consistant. What a f@#$ing great album!

Average customer rating: Marching along Traditional American marches GREAT MUSIC! Why not ZERO? Great Military Music

The Military Band: Salute to the Services Francis Saltus Van Boskerek , Robert M. Crawford , John Stafford Smith , John Philip Sousa , American Traditional , Joseph Franz Wagner , Charles A. Zimmerman , and Felix Slatkin Manufacturer: Angel Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Smith, John Stafford | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sousa | Sousa, John Philip | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Marches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sousa's Greatest Hits Stars & Stripes Forever and the Greatest Marches Music of the U.S. Armed Forces America's Bugle Calls God Bless America: Ult Patriotic Album ASIN: B000006OGX Release Date: 1998-06-02

Tracks:

1. Reveille
2. Salute To The Services: The US Field Artillery March
3. Salute To The Services: Anchors Aweigh
4. US Marines On Parade
5. Salute To The Services: US Air Force Song
6. Salute To The Services: Semper Paratus
7. Salute To The Services: The Stars & Stripes Forever
8. Salute To The Services: Semper Fidelis
9. Salute To The Services: National Emblem
10. Salute To The Services: El Capitan
11. Salute To The Services: Washington Post
12. Salute To The Services: The Thunderer
13. Salute To The Services: Under The Double Eagle
14. Salute To The Services: American Patrol
15. Salute To The Services: The Star Spangled Banner
16. Taps

Customer Reviews:

Marching along.......2007-05-12

I am a walker..(up to 15 miles per week) Having made this purchase... I now march along with Sousa and the other greats on this fine album....I heartily recommend it to all....as well as Amazon's timely and fairly priced services...

Traditional American marches.......2007-03-22

These are traditional American marches well played and stirring. The CD and case are of good quality, and the sound is excellent.

GREAT MUSIC!.......2007-03-11

This is an unusual Music CD to a great price.
Something to celebrate July 4 and our nation.
Highly recommended.

Why not ZERO? .......2007-01-27

I would give this one ZERO.....absolutely waste of money. The sound quality is terrible on my Made in Japan SONY / Kenwood / Panasonic CD / MP3 Players. Also, the collection of the noise is not all that impressive, I have seen much better calming peaceful MUSIC. Do not waste money, I think it is rediculous to have a band for military, How about a band for PEACE?

Great Military Music.......2007-01-11

The CD was just what I needed for a special memorial tribute to our service people that have passed on. The recording was clear and bright. The music selections were well performed and TAPS was especially evoking.

Average customer rating: Very peaceful and enjoyable Love it Unexpectedly perfect Asleep on Cue Soothing Guitar

Guitar Lullaby Ricardo Cobo Manufacturer: Ellipsis Arts ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Lullabies | Children's Music | Styles | Music New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music | Ambient | Celtic | Environmental | General | International | Jazz | Meditation Music | Piano | World Dance General | Children's Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: On a Starry Night Planet Sleeps Lullaby: A Collection Golden Slumbers: A Father's Lullaby Bedtime With the Beatles (Blue Cover) ASIN: B00004TWSZ Release Date: 2000-06-20

Tracks:

1. Morning's Rag
2. Barcarolle #1
3. Barcarolle #2
4. Ojos Brujos
5. Paul De Chuva
6. Cradle Song
7. Dreams
8. Tristesse
9. Berceuse
10. La Alborada
11. Sunday Morning Overcast
12. Country Of The Fan
13. Valseana
14. Lagrima
15. Julia Florida
16. Inspiracao
17. Canco Del Lladre

Amazon.com

Parents with more than a passing interest in classical music and those who make a point of keeping up with sleep studies are apt to be drawn to Guitar Lullaby, which presents 17 tranquil, snooze-inducing songs in two pleasing programs. A lot of research went into this album: the soothing speech patterns parents instinctively switch on when calming children were put under the microscope, as were the soporific effects of traditional "Hush-a-Bye, Baby"-type lullabies and the musical structures restless young ears respond to best. In the liner notes, producer Keith Pearcy explains that children's music mustn't be complicated. To that end, Guitar Lullaby's bag of technical tricks includes short phrases and quicker-than-average resolution to musical structures. The first nine tracks are intended for older children (say, ages 5 and up), while the last eight are for the very young. Each of the two programs starts with an energetic though hardly rollicking number then winds down gradually to slow, gentle strumming. Throughout, Ricardo Cobo, formerly of the Bogotá Philharmonic, displays his gift for getting a guitar to give off emotions--in this case, pure, uncluttered, peaceful ones. And that makes it sort of a shame to tuck this recording into the narrow lullaby category. Although its sleep-promoting potential will serve an important purpose for many, its calming qualities are best enjoyed when the whole family's wide-awake. --Tammy La Gorce

Album Description

GUITAR LULLABY by Ricardo Cobo

Parents around the world seem to know instinctively just how to speak and sing to their children at bedtime to help ease them to sleep. We use universal patterns of rhythm and timbre, melody and harmony.

Imagine having one of the world's finest classical musicians sitting at the foot of your child's bed playing guitar using those very same patterns to coax your child into irresistible sleep.

Ricardo Cobo does just that. With loving attention to every detail of composition and performance, Ricardo has handcrafted what is probably the most effective lullaby recording ever made. In fact, it has been clinically tested and shown to be 40% more effective than traditional lullabies.

GUITAR LULLABY has received awards from the American Library Association and the Parent's Choice Foundation. It was chosen as a “Pick” by Gramophone magazine for being one of the finest new classical recordings. It includes instrumental repertoire from Spain, France, America, Cuba, and South America.

Customer Reviews:

Very peaceful and enjoyable.......2007-01-10

I am a classroom teacher. I first heard this CD when babysitting for my friend's baby and really enjoyed it. So I bought the CD and I actually play it in my classroom while the kids are doing quiet seatwork. It is peaceful and enjoyable to listen to.

Love it.......2006-12-13

My husband and I listened to this CD while I was in labor with my first son. It really set the tone for a beautiful birth. We still play it often and enjoy the relaxing mood it sets for the family. I highly recommend this CD for the whole family.

Unexpectedly perfect.......2006-12-06

My 2 year old and I have been listening to this album almost every night since she was born. It manages to be simultaneously beautiful, relaxing and interesting. It's great for falling asleep to but I would also recommend it for any other time you want to hear some amazing guitar.

Asleep on Cue.......2006-10-30

This CD has become an "instrumental" part of my daughter's day. I turn it on as soon as bring her to her room to settle down for a nap or at the end of the day and it sets a perfect mood. I think it helps me unwind too! We got it as a gift and I will surely do the same for others.

Soothing Guitar.......2006-03-18

Again, a wonderful addition to Latin Lullabies CDs. Soft, soothing sounds to help baby calm down and relax.

Average customer rating: Our favorite Not a lullabye CD Great for babies and adults Great lullaby CD - it really works! love this CD!

African Lullaby Various Artists Manufacturer: Ellipsis Arts ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Guinea | Africa | International | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music Nigeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music South Africa | Africa | International | Styles | Music Ivory Coast | Africa | International | Styles | Music Senegal & Gambia | Africa | International | Styles | Music Zimbabwe | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Compilations | Children's Music | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Brazilian Lullaby The Celtic Lullaby Mediterranean Lullaby Planet Sleeps Latin Lullaby ASIN: B00000JCRJ Release Date: 1999-06-22

Tracks:

1. Thula Mtwana - Ladysmith Black Mambazo
2. Omo - Kemi Akanni
3. Kounandi Deni - Abdoulaye Diabate
4. Mayo Mpapa - Muriel Mwamba
5. Nyandolo - Ayub Ogada
6. Ayo Nene Touti - Mor Dior Bamba
7. Thula Thula - Ntomb'khona Dlamini
8. Webake - Samite
9. Oluronbi - Floxy Bee, The Hikosso Queen
10. Diriyo Nakana - Sadio Kouyate
11. Diyore - Abou Sylla
12. Sigalagala - Anindo
13. Tesegu - Danone O'Sow
14. Chitsidzo - Stella Rambisai Chiweshe

Amazon.com

As with other Ellipsis Arts releases, African Lullaby is more than a stellar music collection. Its delightful liner notes provide ample context for these "love songs for children" and the collection's innovative earth-friendly packaging is a work of art unto itself. Commencing with the bewitching Zulu harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, "Thula Mtwana" sets the tone, creating an atmosphere of warmth, safety, and peace, and is followed by a baker's dozen that reflect the gentle rhythms of an abundantly diverse continent. "Kounandu Deni" marries the dancing melody of Malian guitar and African harp with lyrics of paternal providence. Broadway's Sarafina! and The Lion King cast member Ntomb'khona Dlamini wails soulfully on "Thula Thula," and "Chitsidzo" is a mystical reverie of parental love and spousal longing accompanied by the intense beauty of a mbira (thumb piano). Standing head and shoulders above others in its class, African Lullaby is testimony to the awesome power of music. --Paige La Grone

Album Description

African Lullaby

This collection of lullabies reflects the warmth, musical richness, and soothing rhythms of the African continent. It is a gathering of talented singers and musicians whose gifts are recognized internationally.

Young and old ears will delight in the magical sounds of mbira, balaphone, kora, a capella vocals, guitar, bamboo flutes, dundun, and talking drum.

The lyrics sing of folklore, family, and village life in the traditional languages of the Ivory Coast, Mali, Senegal, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Guinea, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia, and South Africa. They communicate the love that these African artists feel for children and humankind—a love that transcends language.

Features Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Ayub Ogada, Samite, Stella Rambisai Chiweshe, and more.

The notes include original lyrics and English translations.

Customer Reviews:

Our favorite.......2007-04-03

This is my son's favorite cd to listen to when he is falling asleep and we don't mind overhearing it on the monitor! I spent a few years in Africa and a few of the lullabies remind me of singing with my coworkers and friends. Just beautiful.

Not a lullabye CD.......2007-03-01

While I love this album - especially the first track by Ladysmith Black Mambazo - I don't find it very soothing. The rhythms are not sleepy, but rather sweet and uplifting. I can't imagine a child in Africa being sung to sleep by most of these songs - these are the equivalent of slow pop songs from the 70s like "Time in a Bottle" - basically, love songs. Sappy and slow, but not lullabyes. I've heard a few African lullabyes, and other than the LBM track and one or two others this isn't it. Buy the album - but then request the publisher release an album of songs to soothe your kid to sleep.

Great for babies and adults.......2007-01-09

I bought this for my daughter as a change from the rest of the lullabies and we both enjoy it.

Great lullaby CD - it really works!.......2006-09-10

It's great. The songs are wonderful and it puts my 7mth old daughter to sleep in mins. At home or on long driving trips it is very soothing. Adults be careful...it also works on us too! Guarenteed to put YOU to sleep in seconds!
I will also recommend 'Gift of the Tortoise' by Ladysmith Black Mambazo...wonderful and educational CD.
Happy shopping!
Trinitaria

love this CD!.......2006-03-04

i listened to this while pregnant, then while nursing. now we listen to it at bedtime, and sometimes in the car. the music is so beautiful and soothing, it's one of my favorites in any category.

Average customer rating: holy smoke. A linkage between the past and the modernism! great deal Excellent performances, superb value Not just for chamber musik freaks! This is Schumann's best.

Schumann: Complete Piano Trios Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Pressler, Menahem | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Pressler, Menahem | ( P ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Franz Schubert: Complete Trios Antonín Dvorák: Complete Piano Trios Mozart: The Complete Piano Trios Brahms: Complete Piano Quartets Brahms: Complete Trios ASIN: B0000041N8 Release Date: 1997-11-11

Tracks:

1. Piano Quintet In E-flat, Op. 44: Allegro brillante
2. Piano Quintet In E-flat, Op. 44: In modo d'una marcia. Un poco largamente
3. Piano Quintet In E-flat, Op. 44: Scherzo. Molto vivace
4. Piano Quintet In E-flat, Op. 44: Allegro, ma non troppo
5. Piano Quartet In E-flat, Op. 47: Sostenuto assai - Allegro ma non troppo
6. Piano Quartet In E-flat, Op. 47: Scherzo. Molto vivace
7. Piano Quartet In E-flat, Op. 47: Andante cantabile
8. Piano Quartet In E-flat, Op. 47: Finale. Vivace
9. Piano Trio No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 63: Mit Energie und Leidenschaft
10. Piano Trio No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 63: Lebhaft, doch nicht zu rasch

Tracks:

1. Piano Trio No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 63: Langsam, mit inniger Empfindung
2. Piano Trio No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 63: Mit Feuer
3. Piano Trio No. 2 In F, Op. 80: Sehr lebhaft
4. Piano Trio No. 2 In F, Op. 80: Mit innigem Ausdruck
5. Piano Trio No. 2 In F, Op. 80: In massiger Bewegung
6. Piano Trio No. 2 In F, Op. 80: Nicht zu rasch
7. Piano Trio No. 3 In G Minor, Op. 110: Bewegt, doch nicht zu rasch
8. Piano Trio No. 3 In G Minor, Op. 110: Ziemlich langsam
9. Piano Trio No. 3 In G Minor, Op. 110: Rasch
10. Piano Trio No. 3 In G Minor, Op. 110: Kraftig, mit Humor

Amazon.com

This two-CD set, offering Schumann's groundbreaking Piano Quintet, the Piano Quartet, and the three piano trios, is an exceptional bargain. The approach of the Beaux Arts players and their associates is essentially reflective: they let the music speak for itself and avoid the rhetorical excesses other interpreters often fall victim to. In their hands the quintet, one of Schumann's most inspired creations, receives an especially polished and poised performance, with a lovely dovetailing of voices. The analog recordings are warm and detailed, and they have been optimally transferred to CD. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

holy smoke........2007-04-17

now i'm just a big dummy. i really am. but somehow classical music got through my thick skull and into my heart. so glad that it did. these recordings from 1975 by the beaux arts trio are spectacular works of chamber music. mr schumann's compositions are given a vibrantly intense and dramatic going over by these great musicians. soul-stirring stuff in every way. this is the sound of a musical springtime, all green invention and sunshine for the spirit. the violin, cello, and piano tunnel through the music, unearthing and displaying its potential and grace. i listened to the entire two hours and twenty minutes of glorious music that's on these discs this morning, and it was a great experience indeed. i highly highly recommend this set to any and all music lovers. this whole affair is a masterpiece of grand compositions in the hands of brilliant performers.

A linkage between the past and the modernism!.......2006-11-28

If Goethe's Werther was the prototype of the Romantic hero per excellence, inflaming the imagination and creativeness of newcomer artists, I guess the legitimate Ambassador in the music, had its embodiment around the egregious figure of Robert Schumann. No other composer in the history of the music has embraced new genres and styles with as much febrile intensity, uncertainty but at the same time with as much determination as did Schumann. The remarkable fact he had composed 138 songs in just one year, supports with striking stubbornness he blended music and poetry; despite of the fact his enormous knowledge of literature. Of course the main pivot for his incursions in the chamber music were his passionate analysis around Beethoven's late Quartets. His immense devotion for the chamber music was in visible counter flow with the tendencies of the New German School. He was aware about the dissolution of the piano as protagonist instrument ( just think in Busoni `s Piano concerto, for instance) and in this sense he consecrated all his efforts to preserve and defend the power of expression of the noblest instrument.

On the other hand, the set of Trios surmounted the well known Op. 54's Piano Concerto. That reveals a very careful design in the tonal architecture, interlinking parts and polyphonal material which points to the future and Brahms securely had to have discussed this issue with his friend.
Such emblematic attitude made that composers such Mahler and Schoenberg were so influenced due its modernist projections.

The second is by far, the most romantic of the set with Schubertian reminiscences try to realize th far echoes of the last movement of Cesar Franck's Sonata for violin in the third movement of this trio, while the last one is evidently as we expected the most futurist of the three; and you certainly may find seminal seeds for modern age and the Viennese school of the early ages of the XX Century.

So, consider a wise acquisition to have these distinguished and refined Trios because reflect fundamental works that far to be transitional were the most perfect linkage between the dying Romanticism and the arousing musical modernism and illustrates wisely that smart statement of Octavio Paz: "The past is function of the future. The will of future makes the dead bodies stand and puts order in its works..."

great deal.......2005-10-12

These are well-played and well-recorded versions of these pieces. The price is also right.
Personally I found Schumann's compositions excessively mercurial at times but that's my problem. If you like him this should'nt be missed.

Excellent performances, superb value.......2002-04-07

This collection of Schumann's piano trios, Op. 47 piano quartet, and Op. 44 piano quintet is excellent, epsecially since it's offered at Philips' Duo (2-for-1 price). Having recently performed the piano quartet and quintet, I can say that the Beaux Arts Trio brings much finesse, refinement, and superb musical judgment to these performances. The famous Quintet gets an oustanding performance, not as volatile as the live EMI recording led by Martha Argerich, but then without that recording's self-indulgence either. I think the piano quartet is underrated; it has a absolutely beautiful slow movement and an exhilarating last movement filled with counterpoint. The Beaux Arts gives it an excellent performance, though the slow movement seems rather too ponderous and lacking the radiance it should have. The piano trios aren't as well known: they come from later in Schumann's career and are often considered inferior to the earlier works. I cannot agree, especially in the case of the first two trios, which cotrast beautifully, the first one passionate and tragic, the second one lighter and fresher, almost Schubertian, both with beautiful slow movements. The snag is that the first trio is split between the two discs, which is an inconvenience. Very good sound, too. By the way, if you enjoy the trios, you should also check out the Florestan Trio's two outstanding discs on Hyperion (one with the first two trios, the other with the Piano Quartet, the third trio, and the Op. 88 Fantasiestücke for piano trio). The Florestan's performances are perhaps more imaginative than the Beaux Arts', and they are even better recorded.

Not just for chamber musik freaks! This is Schumann's best........1999-10-09

This 2 CD set offers an extraoardinary bargain. Five works by the underrated German master are heard in incisive performances that only occaisionally succumb to the usual pitfall of many Schumann performances: Zu Viel Schmaltz. When Robert indulged in self-pity, he bathed in it! (especially when he was "Eusebius").... The sound overall is consistent and adequate, although some selections are remastered from analog. Many people have said, "Why couldn't Schumann write a truly great symphony?" He did---the Eb Quintett, op. 44. If you love romantic period chambermusic, you should not miss this collection. This is more than two hours of great music...

Average customer rating: Album of the decade so far im seeing stars tonight... Great songs, great lyrics, great voices love at first listen Some very good rock-based pop that has two GREAT songs! - only for pop fans though

Heart Stars Manufacturer: Arts & Crafts ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Chamber Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Electronic Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Set Yourself on Fire Nightsongs You Forgot It in People The Comeback A Lot of Little Lies for the Sake of One Big Truth ASIN: B0000AM6MS Release Date: 2003-09-23

Tracks:

1. What The Snowman Learned About Love
2. Elevator Love Letter
3. Heart
4. The Woods
5. Death To Death
6. The Vanishing
7. Romantic Comedy
8. Time Can Never Kill The True Heart
9. Look Up
10. Life Effect
11. Don't Be Afraid To Sing

Album Description

Heart is the stunning sophomore album from Montreal quartet, Stars. The follow-up to the bands critically acclaimed Nightsongs (Top 10 Albums of 2001 - Village Voice). Features 12 tracks worth of their charming brand of electronic chamber pop, including the U.S. bonus track 'Comeback' (Live). Digipak. Arts & Crafts. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

Album of the decade so far.......2007-06-06

In my opinion, this is the album of the decade so far.

Elevator Love Letter is a legitimate candidate for best song of all time. It's ridiculously catchy and well put-together. It's incredibly crisp. It spectacularly highlights Amy Millan's voice, easily one of the top 5 female voices of today. In addition to all of this, the lyrics are poignant and relevant. It's perfect from start to finish.

If this were the only decent song on the album, it would be well worth the purchase price, but it's not even my personal favorite. That would go to the title track, which is admittedly syrupy but which tugs at your heartstrings (a classic Stars attribute) -- it's just a great, classic, flawlessly executed love song. And I haven't even gotten to What The Snowman Learned About Love, which is a classic song-number-one, or the other gems lining the walls of this epic. If you have a soul, you'll not only love this album, you'll feel like a part of it.

im seeing stars tonight..........2007-02-02

i am such a huge amy millan fan. from broken social scene, to her solo release, she is a pure genius. the band stars, well what can i really say. it warms the heart, and creates dreams, passion, desire, and creativity. many people have labeled them a pop band, but what i find truly interesting is the fact that their slower, not poppy songs are ones with many many layers of distinct talent. my favorite song on this album is look up. it is a beautiful song, that displays amy millans talented voice like no other. in fact, as far as indie music goes, this is one of the best ive ever heard. coming in at around the same place is calander girl from stars' other ablbum "set yourself on fire". do they make pop music? yes they certainly do. but it is so much more than that, and you need to listen close, and to all of their songs because you may be missing out on the creation of this genius group of people. highly recommended album/band.

Great songs, great lyrics, great voices.......2006-09-15

Elevator Love Letter is the best song you've never heard. There are at least 4 REALLY GOOD songs on this album: Look Up, song #8, ELL, and Snowman.....and maybe only one that I don't enjoy listening to..the one which is the most twee. "The Vanishing" or something.

Amy's voice: great. Torquil's voice: very good.

Production is a little over the top in terms of compression, but that's pretty much the norm these days.

This IS a better album than Set Yourself on Fire, in terms of pure songwriting and performances.

Anyway, as a pure pop album, this is brilliant. No, they don't mess their hair up and snort coke to be "edgy", Torque tends to the more pretentious side, but that is refreshing at this point in history.

love at first listen.......2006-02-24

heart is stars' stunningly beautiful second full-length album. highlights include elevator love letter, look up, and what the snowman learned about love. i instantly fell in love with stars after hearing "ageless beauty" off set yourself on fire (good, but not as good as heart) on the band's website. chances are if you're not a huge fan of stars, you'd at least heard that song. if you liked it, you're in luck--imagine a whole album full of the same glittery synth, the sweet, quietly sad voices of amy and torquil, and the same mystifying but memorable lyrics. some of these songs might take a little time getting used to, and others might seem like nothing special at first. however, listen more carefully and really think about the lyrics, because they are often the best part.

if you are into indie pop (sans the typical, cloying overdose of twee), then this is worth listening to, and definitely worth hiding from all the grimy wannabes in your dorm. cheers, kids.

Some very good rock-based pop that has two GREAT songs! - only for pop fans though.......2006-01-04

Stars is another guilty pleasure pop band - you'll either love it or hate it. They have two saving graces - female vocalist Amy Millan (who is just amazing) and two hitworthy songs ("Elevator Love Letter" and probably "Death To Death"). Millan is just extraordinary (after this album came out movie producers started giving her jobs, if that tells you anything), and even though the male vocalist pales in comparison he's not that bad. Lyrically, most of the songs are pretty easy and fun to memorize as they're relatively simple. They're also slightly deep ("Elevator Love Letter" is kind of interesting lyrically AND highly entertaining sonically). Not every song is good as it's definitely uneven, but the ones that are are usually great pop songs. "Elevator Love Letter" is the obvious stand-out, and on occasion it even conjures up some genuine emotion (yeah, I'll admit it haha). I would've given it about 3.5 stars if it weren't for the quality of its highlights. It's not for everyone, though - just pop enthusiasts. Recommended!

Highlights include:
"What Did The Snowman Learn About Love?"
"Elevator Love Letter"
"Heart"
"Death To Death"
"The Vanishing"
"Life Effect" (kind of)

Average customer rating: Lewis Black-Luther Burbank Performing Arts Center Blues The Good News -- this is almost completely new material and has not been duplicated much on his other CDs and DVDs. Duplicated, sure, but these sets of jokes are definitely more refined Another Excellent Effort from Lewis Black We know now Lewis

Luther Burbank Performing Arts Center Blues Lewis Black Manufacturer: Comedy Central ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Comedy | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Country Comedy | Comedy | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Similar Items: Rules of Enragement The End Of The Universe The White Album The Carnegie Hall Performance Lewis Black - Unleashed ASIN: B000784WDG Release Date: 2005-01-25

Tracks:

1. Superbowl Redux
2. MTV
3. Halftime '04
4. What Sex...........Are They?
5. Gay Marriage
6. Justin and Janet
7. America Loses Its Mind
8. Nipple Clamps
9. One Nation Under God
10. Michael Jackson, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ronald Reagan
11. Voting (A Flashback)
12. Iraq, An Idiots Delight

Album Description

As "America's Foremost Commentator On Everything", Black is a weekly political commentator on Comedy Central's "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart", and has starred in four top-rated comedy specials for the network. He's one of the nation's top stand-up comics and has done numerous films and television appearances. Recently, he's been touring constantly to packed theaters on his "Rules Of Enragement" tour, having finished a series of dates with Dave Attell and Mitch Hedberg. This CD catches him live at the Luther Burbank PAC.

Customer Reviews:

Lewis Black-Luther Burbank Performing Arts Center Blues.......2007-03-27

I actually didn't buy the CD for me but for a gift for my dad who loves Lewis Black. I really like him also. I have asked him how the CD was and he said it was good. He didn't say it was really good but good seems to be a pretty good review in my opinion. Also in my opinion I don't think there is anything that Lewis Black does that could be bad.

The Good News -- this is almost completely new material and has not been duplicated much on his other CDs and DVDs........2007-03-20

I own all of Lewis Black's DVDs and CDs, and I am also a big fan of his material on The Daily Show. That said, this is definitely his best CD that he's done.

First, I will have to rebut some of the reviews here -- this is not recycled material. Yes, there are a couple of Superbowl jokes that were reused from The End of the Universe and his 2002 Comedy Central Presents special, and yes, his "civics book" joke was reused from Rules of Enragement. However, those jokes have actually been far more refined in this CD.

Also, the first 8 tracks (with the exception of Gay Marriage) deal with the Superbowl Halftime 2004, and nowhere will you find any of this on any of his other CDs or DVDs. The thing with his other CDs is that if you have all h is material, you'll see it all recycled. The White Album is like his 1998 and 2000 Comedy Central specials. The End of the Universe is like his 2002 special. Rules of Enragement is like Black on Broadway, and Carnegie Hall is like Red White and Screwed. You'll find a lot of new material on all of this, yes, but a significant chunk of the pairs I put up have similar jokes in each. Not so with Luther Burbank. This is the only CD of his that I laughed the whole way through, since I rarely ever stopped and thought, "Wait, I've heard this before." If you've seen all he's done on TV, you will barely recognize any of the material on here. That includes his "Iraq, An Idiots Delight" portion. On Rules of Enragement, he talks about it for a good amount of time. On this, he has about 17 minutes dedicated to it, and besides his "civics book" joke, you'll never hear any of this anywhere else. Funny stuff. Wait until he rips on Rumsfeld!

That said, his jokes are hysterical. Wait until you see his rant on gay marriage and Bush's proposed constitutional amendment. When he talks about the Constitution after that, you are going to roll on the ground laughing. While he sometimes, though rarely, misses the mark on some of his other merchandise (the latter half of Red White and Screwed is a good example of this), he never seems to miss a beat here, constantly churning out wit like it was nobody's business.

This is a must-buy. If you are diving into his works and want a CD of his, this should be the first one you get.

Duplicated, sure, but these sets of jokes are definitely more refined.......2006-09-09

Yes, this airing does have many of Lewis' jokes that have already been shown elsewhere; and yes, it hardly does the listener justice to listen to what he has already done without some sort of incentive to do so. Well, how about this? LISTEN TO IT BECAUSE THE MATERIAL HAS BEEN MORE EXTENSIVELY THOUGHT-OUT! These are the same jokes because Lewis adds more in between each one to amplify how he's feeling, you twits. There are any words that can express how tired I am of reading reviews whose only content are, "Get his earlier work because this has been done before LOL LOL i'm retarded," because it hasn't! Unless, of course, the material you're referring to has already been heard on some unreleased bootleg found online, in which case I suggest you stop finding bits and pieces of Black's work you shouldn't be looking for in the first place, and get over it. Not on any of the DVDs or CDs I've heard of Lewis' (and I think I've heard and watched almost everyone of them) have I been able to hear the same material than I have with "Luther Burbank Performing Arts Center Blues"; there have been the same ideas, sure, the same background for the jokes such as the Super Bowl or George W. Bush's incessant onslaught on getting those "devilish homosexuals" not to be able to call themselves bound spiritually. But that doesn't mean at all that they're the same jokes, because he adds different reasoning and substance in between them to make each one fresh and all-the-more hilarious. So please keep your bloody mouths shut about it being the same.

Anyway, I love this recording. I love Lewis' passion whilst speaking about the musicians who can't really play music (especially with their manhood clutched in their grip), and also MTV, who for some reason has still been given authority to run the half-time show. Now granted, I don't watch football, I never really have; nor any sports, for that matter. I occasionally watch baseball, but otherwise, no, I don't like sports, so forgive this rather inexperienced question: why the quip is MTV allowed to run half-time shows? I'm not aiming to turn this into a long rant or anything, but seriously, why? It makes no bloody sense; unless, obviously, the NFL wants their adolescent viewers masturbating in the stands at the football game now. That's really the only conceivable use I can conjure from that precious decision, but hey, I also think Lewis Black has separate material on this album, so what the [expletive deleted] do I know?

Moreover, when Lewis gets to Schwarzenegger and the state of California, I nearly bust my gut laughing. It's amazing how honestly comical a man can be simply by saying a few words. "Arnold Schwarzenegger is the governor of your state." So few words with Black, it seems, is all he needs to get his crowd going, especially when they're so trite one can't help but laugh. He does the same thing with Dick Cheney a lot, too, on other releases; subsequently, I suggest you find the ones like "The End of the Universe," or go watch "Red, White and Screwed," Lewis Black's HBO special that aired sometime ago, and watch first-hand how boiled his passion goes for the Vice President of the United States. It's downright ghastly, I assure you.
That then leads into the run-on about Ronald Reagan, which, I suppose, you can say it's like the same joke, because Lewis Black uses the man's name in another skit he does, but that really doesn't count because the punch line (whenever there bloody is one with Lewis, less half-than-not, really) and body of the jokes are pretty much precisely unalike, but hey, whatever. He's a beautiful comic.

Yeah, well, that's all I have. I'd love to comment more, but I guess I don't want to. Long story cut short, here: if you're already familiar with Lewis Black but you haven't heard this show, I recommend you get it; or, if you have never heard Lewis Black and you think it'd be more prudent to get one of his earlier releases, then all I can is: if you want to, go ahead. I personally don't think it's necessary, though. I think none of his material used on this release will preclude you from enjoying any of his earlier stuff, and vice-versa, because it really doesn't matter which order you keep it in. Listen to whichever record you want to, because that's wonderful thing about comedy: chronological order means absolutely nothing.

In closing, I'll say again: I don't think this release encompasses Lewis Black's same material; duplicated, sure, but these sets of jokes are definitely more refined. So, as stated, just get over it, people, and enjoy the man in his universe.

Another Excellent Effort from Lewis Black.......2006-03-26

I think Lewis' take on the whole Janet Jackson blowup is right on target.

Note: This CD is packed with F-bombs, etc. Not for Children.

We know now Lewis.......2006-02-12

This CD is still very funny, but most of the jokes are not very new. He has either used them on some DVD's or CD's or goes on about the same subject.
It seems every show has some remarks about the Superbowl, and even though this is about the famous Justin and Janet halftime show we get it now.
Get his other CD's first

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