East to East

About the Artist
Alan Kushan is arguably one of the most accomplished santur players in the world. He stands out not only because of his brilliant realizations of traditional Persian compositions, but also for his innovative avant-guard soundscapes. He is not only a builder of Persian instruments but also a virtuoso in performing Persian traditional music. His style, however, is not limited to traditional approaches but it extends itself beyond any such boundaries. He applies his own touch to the music that he performs, a touch which he has developed after experiencing the new trend of music, not only in his native land of Iran, but in the world.

The instrument, which Alan uses, is also his own invention, which is designed after the traditional Persian Santur (hammered dulcimer), an old instrument with a sound box and several sets of strings. Each set usually consists of four strings, which are tuned, in the same pitch, so every four strings, which are supported by individual bridges, would sound the same in multiplied resonance when played with special wooden hammers. Similar instruments exist in different countries all around the world: Chinese Yan Chin, Indian Santur, and also the Rumanian Cimbalom. The structure ultimately is what the soundboard of a later invention, the piano, has been designed after.

Product Description
One of Alan Kushan's many contributions to the SANTUR has been to broaden its musical range by increasing the number of bridges (notes) available to the musician. this expands the SANTUR from a typically restricted pitch area into an instrument capable of traveling previously unexplored musical territories. Alan designs and constructs these unique SANTURS and, in addition to differing gauges of steel and copper wire, he uses piano and harp strings to create fascinating variations in tonal quality. In this album Ustad Abhijit Banerjee accompanies him on Tabla.

Style/Genre: World Fusion

Instrumentation: Santur, Tabla.

East to East,Alan Kushan,X Dot 25,Indian,Int'l & World Music,Pop,World Music

Average customer rating: Fab's has another hit Decent From Nothin' To Somethin' MORE POP BOP GARBAGE Fab

From Nothin' to Somethin' Fabolous Manufacturer: Def Jam ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: T.I. vs T.I.P. Double Up Epiphany We the Best Because Of You ASIN: B000MCID4Q Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

1. From Nothin' To Somethin' Intro
2. Yep, I'm Back
3. Change Up feat. Akon
4. Make Me Better feat. Ne-Yo
5. Baby Don't Go feat. T- Pain
6. Return Of The Hustle feat. Swizz Beatz
7. Gangsta Don't Play feat. Junior Reid
8. Real Playa Like feat. Lloyd
9. First Time feat. Rihanna
10. Diamonds feat. Young Jeezy
11. Brooklyn feat. JAY-Z & Uncle Murda
12. I'm The Man feat. Red Café
13. Jokes On You feat. Pusha T
14. What Should I Do feat. Lil' Mo

Amazon.com

It's hard to catch a break when you're Fabolous. Though his skills as a manufacturer of blazing-hot street bangers and pop-crossover hits have not gone unnoticed by the hip-hop hype machine, the Brooklyn rapper hasn't come close to matching 50-Cent and similarly gifted superstars in the sales department. Which accounts for his decision, with album No. 4, to do somethin' about it. From Nothin' to Somethin' rounds up a massive herd of talent--Akon is here, and so are Swiss Beatz, Rihanna, Young Jeezy, Jay-Z, Lloyd, Junior Reid, Ne-Yo, and T-Pain. It's a little hard to locate Fabo on "Change Up," the Akon track, but otherwise he goes about spreading his Fabolousness throughout: "Diamonds," a bling-centric track with Jeezy, benefits from a borrowed take-it-easy Southern drawl, "Brooklyn" brings it home for New York with a spirit seldom seen since the East Coast/West Coast war was at its nastiest, and "Return of the Hustle" solidifies a career built on street cred with an asphalt-hot beat. Start to finish, but especially on the Timbaland-helmed "Make Me Better," production is top-notch. If there's a disc that can restore the fabulousness to being Fabolous, Somethin' is it. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

Fab's has another hit.......2007-07-12

Don't know why people are giving this low stars if you don't like it then don't worry about it. Listen to the classic rap albums all day and cry about the new hip pop that is out today. Cry to yourself though and don't be bitter about Fabolous new album because it is good hip pop album. I recommend buying this hip pop album it is worth it. HAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

Decent.......2007-07-11

Fabolous's 4th album is "From Nothin To Somethin". What I've always noticed about fab is that even though he tries to sound mainstream a lot he is still very underrated. Fabolous is right in same category as Trick Daddy & Mystikal. They can make good songs but their albums never really blow you away or make you say wow that's some tight s**t right there.

"From Nothin To Somethin" is a 15 track release with collaborations on all but 2 songs.

The album gets off to a pretty good start with "From Nothin To Somethin Intro", a decent opener that kind of sounds like a freestyle. the beat is crazy. And if the song was a little bit longer instead of just being an intro it would probably be one of the better songs on here. This album is basically the typical rap album these days. You got the songs where he constatly brags about himself ("Yep, I'm Back", "I'm The Man" feat. Red Cafe & "Jokes On You" feat. Pusha-T of The Clipse). As well as the songs for the ladies ("Baby Don't Go" feat. T-Pain, "Make Me Better" feat. NE-YO, "First Time" feat. Rihanna & "Real Playa Like" feat. Lloyd). You got the club bangers ("Diamonds" feat. Young Jeezy & "Return Of The Hustle" feat. Swizz Beatz). "Brooklyn" feat. Jay-Z & Uncle Murda has a great beat. But the hook is very dissapointing. It reminds me of "New York S**t" from Busta Rhymes's cd The Big Bang. The standout track for me is "Gangsta Don't Play" feat. Junior Reid. The beat is tight and Fab and J Reid deliver a solid street track. The only two songs that Fabolous really shows any hunger on are "Change Up" feat. Akon and the deep track "What Should I Do" feat. Lil Mo. And the bonus track "This Is Family" feat. Ransom, Freck Billionaire, Red Cafe, Joe Budden & Paul Cain is a solid posse cut. This album will go platinum but it isn't album of the year material.

My Top 5

1. "Real Playa Like" feat. Lloyd
2. "Diamonds" feat. Young Jeezy
3. "Change Up" feat. Akon
4. "Return Of The Hustle" feat. Swizz Beatz
5. "Make Me Better" feat. NE-YO

Honorable mention tracks

- "Gangsta Don't Play" feat. Junior Reid
- "Brooklyn" feat. Jay-Z & Uncle Murda
- "What Should I Do" feat. Lil Mo

From Nothin' To Somethin'.......2007-07-10

Definitely not his best but trust me it will grow on you. If you're a real Fab fan u will be willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. The problem with this album is not a lack of features got em (Lloyd, T-Pain, Akon, Jay-Z, Ne-yo, Red Cafe, Rihanna) or hot beatz got em (Just Blaze, Swizz Beatz etc.) but a lack of hooks. Brooklyn w/ Jay-Z was especially disappointing for that reason. But The cd does have at least 7 pretty good tracks and who can deny the kid with the Grammy grin? Hope this helps. Najwa >: <

MORE POP BOP GARBAGE.......2007-07-09

HERES ANOTHER WEAK ALBUM FOR DA POP BOP CROWD. ANYONE WHO FINDS THIS ALBUM
GOOD MUST NOT LISTEN TO THE ROOTS,PHAROAH MONCH,MOS DEF OR MEGALON. ITS ALBUMS LIKE THESE THAT HIP HOP IS IN DA SHxxTER. PRE SCHOOL RHYMES LIKE
"I'M FLOSSING,NOW I'M BOSSIN',WHY HAVE DA CAKE,WITHOUT THE FROSTING"-WACK!!!
AND LIKE USUAL FAB CAN'T HOLD HIS OWN LIKE A MAN WITH NO ARMS..HE GOT HELP
FROM THE INDUSTRY'S TOP CHART TOPPERS:JAY-Z,AKON,JEEZY-ECT. --PITIFUL

Fab .......2007-07-08

Disappointed w/ this one. Only like 3 tracks and those didn't even meet my expectations.

Average customer rating: Always a classic The Beginning of the Beastie Boys' Dynasty The Joke Is... A near-excellent album Let there be ill

Licensed to Ill Beastie Boys Manufacturer: Def Jam ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Old School | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Alternative General | Alternative Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Alternative General | Alternative Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Rap & Hip-Hop General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Rap & Hip-Hop General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rap & Hip-Hop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Paul's Boutique Ill Communication Check Your Head Run-D.M.C. - Greatest Hits Hello Nasty ASIN: B0000024JN Release Date: 1995-03-28

Tracks:

1. Rhymin & Stealin
2. The New Style
3. She's Crafty
4. Posse In Effect
5. Slow Ride
6. Girls
7. Fight For Your Right
8. No Sleep Till Brooklyn
9. Paul Revere
10. Hold It Now, Hit It
11. Brass Monkey
12. Slow And Low
13. Time To Get Ill

Amazon.com essential recording

The joke of Licensed to Ill's cover--that the Beasties could crash their jet into the side of a mountain and keep on tickin'--serves as a good metaphor for a career that even some of their 1986 admirers thought might be over after the one-time-only shock of this full-length debut. That thousands of funk-junkie wannabes have since failed at re-creating its groove, breaking-the-law vibe, and ear-splitting mix of rock and rap is an even better joke. And funniest of all is the record itself, which packs dexterous boasts, aural puns, and lots and lots of yelling into a disc that can still be listened to with as much pleasure as it gave in '86. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

Always a classic.......2007-06-09

I finally had to replace my old copy of this. I love it! Beastie Boys' classic album mixes their "new style" lyrics (one-liners as I like to think of them) with all the classic party/dance tracks: No Sleep 'til Brooklyn, Fight for Your Right to Party, and Brass Monkey, not to mention "GIRLS". What fun it is, they obviously had so much fun with this album.

The Beginning of the Beastie Boys' Dynasty.......2007-06-05

License to Ill--

Formerly a punk-rock outfit called the Young & the Useless, New Yorkers Mike D, MCA and King Ad-Rock hooked up with Def Jam founder Rick Rubin in the mid-1980's to create a hip-hop masterpiece. Released in the fall of 1986, License to Ill took both the hip-hop world and mainstream pop culture by storm. Though this was their debut LP, the three MC's traded verses like veterans. Hip-hop rhythm tracks were combined with guitar licks for one of the first rap/rock fusion efforts, sowing seeds for the sub-genre's late 90's resurgence in the likes of Limp Bizkit and Rage Against the Machine.

Lyrically, the Beasties are basically college-age party animals throughout the album, telling wild stories about getting kicked out of White Castle, get-togethers stocked with Budweiser, and related tales of cheerful, hedonistic mayhem. In interviews, band members admitted to having a Schoolly-D fixation at the time, and so there are also some casual gun references here and there. "Slow and Low" covers an unreleased Run-DMC song, with the unforgettable line "White Castle fries only come in one size.." "Rhymin' & Stealin'" is pre-gangster rap pirate fantasy, where the Boys vow to send sucker MC's "to Davy Jones' locker.." "No Sleep `til Brooklyn" has a great guitar contribution by Slayer's Kerry King, as the Boys vow to keep the party going "eight days a week.."; the now-legendary "Paul Revere" is a cowboy fantasy (co-written with Run DMC) where the Beasties play desperadoes on the frontier, set to a reverse-drum track rhythm: "MCA was with it, and he's my ace, so I grab the piano player and I punched him in the face; piano player's out, the music stopped; his boy had beef, and he got dropped.."

The album's signature song was the top-10 pop smash "(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right". The rocker is almost out of place amidst all the straightforward hip-hop, but it's just as well that it was the album's closer. The Beasties expanded the cultural diversity of rap as well as expanding its cultural acceptance worldwide.

As of 2007, the LP's 20th anniversary has already passed; a deluxe re-release is in order; it should include any unreleased songs (such as the early "Rock Hard" EP; also, bootleg releases have included rare songs like "Scenario", "I'm Down" and an alternate take of "Fight for Your Right"), as well as a DVD version of the now-rare VHS home video compilation.

The Joke Is..........2007-05-08

In response to Rickey Wright's editorial review (this guy's an editor and didn't see this?)...

The joke, Mr. Wright, is not them crashing their jet into the side of a mountain and surviving, but rather what the image turns into when you unfold the album cover and hold it length-wise with the tail-end up. It's the image of a 'joint' being mashed out (like a cigarette in an ashtray). So I think the genius behind it works, making the obvious - unobvious.

Also, the call letters on the rear of the plane (3MTA3) actually spell 'EAT ME' when viewed in reverse - which is what is usually done when you're smokin' a fatty and 'Jake' is on ya.

As for the album itself - CLASSIC! True Beastie Boy gold!

A near-excellent album.......2007-03-09

Who didn't listen to the Beastie Boys back in the '80's? Their crossover appeal to rap and rock fans made the group one of the biggest hits during that era. The album was indicative of their unique style of rap, along with their penchant for including heavy rock sounds/backgrounds into their music. Although some thought that this album was a bit commercialized, it didn't keep it from becoming one of the most popular releases during that time. "Brass Monkey" is a memorable track that almost every Beastie fan can sing along to, and "Fight For Your Right" almost became an anthem for party-crazed teens in the '80's. "Time To Get Ill" was one of my favorite songs on this album, since it displayed skilled Dj'ing and catchy backdrop beats. Lyrics were also easy to memorize, which always helps when you feel like rappin' along with the track being played in your car. "Hold It Now, Hit It" is still one of the most sampled tracks in today's rap songs, and its catchy beat and rhythm allows for regular play in many listener's stereos. "She's Crafty" and "The New Style" were less-known hits, but still allows for fans to enjoy, as beats and sounds are similar to other hits... but, just different enough to keep the album from being boring. With their unique style and memorable lyrics, who wouldn't want to buy this album for the right price?

Let there be ill.......2007-03-09

I've waited way too long to buy this album. This album is definitely a must-have in my book, not only for pioneering the area of Caucasian rap, but also for the unique style of rap that they brought. As I get older, it makes me sad when I see the generation gap, and "Fight For Your Right" and "No Sleep Till Brooklyn" isn't part of the new generation's collective memory. If I ever have a child, I'm buying the casette tape for this album, sticking it a boombox, putting that boombox on my shoulder, and blasting "Paul Revere" as the child exits the womb. These songs are simply classics, and it's a crime for kids today to not know what they are.

Average customer rating: Nephew Loves It amazing talent Nuttin But Stringz Jams Hip Hop/Rap meets Classical Nuttin But Stringz

Struggle from the Subway to the Charts Nuttin But Stringz Manufacturer: Koch Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Chamber Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Hip-Hop Violinist Jack's Big Music Show, Season 1 Pulling Strings Fantasia Once Again ASIN: B000HKDE7Y Release Date: 2006-10-03

Tracks:

1. BROKEN SORROW
2. STRUGGLE Featuring Tony Haze
3. THUNDER
4. BEAUTY FROM AFAR INTRO
5. BEAUTY FROM AFAR
6. SUKA 4 HER INTERLUDE
7. SUKA 4 HER
8. GET LOW Featuring Winter
9. EGYPTIAN IN THE NIGHT INTRO
10. EGYPTIAN IN THE NIGHT
11. A NU DAY
12. DANCE WITH MY FATHER Featuring Karmen Michael & The Godselettes Choir
13. THUNDER REMIX

Customer Reviews:

Nephew Loves It.......2007-07-05

We bought this as a birthday gift for my nephew who plays violin and he has had nothing but rave reviews to say about it. I have not heard it, but I know that he would recommend it to anyone.

amazing talent.......2007-07-04

I first heard this group watching Jack's Big Music Show with my 2 year old son, I've been hooked ever since. I'm not a big rap fan - but when you hear their musical genius you'll see why they are the next big thing.

Nuttin But Stringz Jams.......2007-06-27

The "Nuttin But Stringz" CD is an enjoyable journey into modern R&B music played with a classical violin twist. My two kids are studying violin and were getting bored with their lessons until "Nuttin But Stringz" woke them up to the violin as an instrument that is really "cool". We love the CD and cannot wait to see them on tour.

Hip Hop/Rap meets Classical.......2007-06-27

Incredible CD!!! After seeing these performers on Jack's Big Music show (on Noggin - with my 2 year old), I had to buy the CD. Insanely talented violinists, they are also passionate and strong rap artists as well. If nothing else, everyone should pick this CD up for its uniqueness and refreshingly new concept. My favorite CD purchased in years!

Nuttin But Stringz.......2007-06-03

These gentlemen are very talented, their music is uplifting and creative. This mix of classical violin with hip hop is the best I've heard and my teens enjoy their music as well. Well worth buying and supporting these artists!

Average customer rating: Who are the idiots?? As eerie as a siren. PUBLIC ENEMY Wall of Sound Mind Blowing from beginning to end............

It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back Public Enemy Manufacturer: Def Jam ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Rap & Hip-Hop General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Rap & Hip-Hop General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rap & Hip-Hop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Fear of a Black Planet Straight Outta Compton Yo! Bum Rush the Show Apocalypse 91...The Enemy Strikes Black The Low End Theory ASIN: B0000024K1 Release Date: 1995-05-02

Tracks:

1. Countdown To Armageddon
2. Bring The Noise
3. Don't Believe The Hype
4. Cold Lampin' With Flavor
5. Terminator X To The Edge Of Panic
6. Mind Terrorist
7. Louder Than A Bomb
8. Caught, Can We Get A Witness?
9. Show Em Whatcha Got
10. She Watch Channel Zero?!
11. Night Of The Living Baseheads
12. Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos
13. Security Of The First World
14. Rebel Without A Pause
15. Prophets Of Rage
16. Party For Your Right To Fight

Amazon.com essential recording

It Takes a Nation of Millions was the sign that hip-hop had exploded like a grenade. A rap record as abrasive, hardcore, and eloquent as a JFK speech, the 1988 disc is one classic track after another: tense, multilayered, harmonically wild music. Chuck D. declaims like a master preacher with foil Flavor Flav's voice darting around his. They've got the desperate energy of people fighting for their lives, and everything from their pumped-up rhetoric ("Prophets of Rage") to the group's quasi-paramilitary organization to the sirens and sax squeals in nearly every track declares how urgent their mission is. It's a hugely influential album, and it still sounds fresh and frightening after all these years. --Douglas Wolk

Customer Reviews:

Who are the idiots??.......2007-04-14

I'm compelled to provide a review. For one reason. Why the f isn't this a five star album? Some reviewers out their need their keyboards revoked. I've been listening to this record on and off for almost 20 years. Each time I get the same old buzz. My old (much loved) Pixies albums don't come close in terms of providing everlasting pleasure.

For those that don't own this, just "do yourself a favour."

BTW - DJ Spooky Trojan Records excursion is a blast....(on the platter as I write)

As eerie as a siren........2007-02-18

You know, I once saw someone say that this shouldn't be considered music, and in one way, that person is right: it's an aural explosion on record, in a way not even an industrial band could execute it. This record came out at a time I was still coloring walls, but even I could connect well with it, it is that good. The record hasn't aged a bit. The first I heard from P.E. was "Fear of a Black Planet" a few years back, and I really enjoyed that one. I got to this and was shocked at how it was EVEN better.

Chuck D. and Flavor Flav have a delivery that can't be missed, and the Bomb Squad use some awesome loops and samples. The 3 or 4 interludes on here are great too, and not even those come off as filler. The lyrics are intellectual social/political message. There's not much quite like this today, in fact that might even be an understatement. Some tracks come off like siren tracks, like listening to songs like "Night of the Living Baseheads" and such. The live samples add to the energy of this record. It is a hip-hop record, but you don't have to be a fan of the genre to enjoy this. The energy could be appreciated by a rock fan, and the instrumental of a track like "Black Steel..." could be appreciated by a jazz fan maybe. It doesn't need to be limited to genres. It's a great record, period. The influence is something that's even been going on through the times, and that doesn't need to be explained or even justified.

It's cheaply priced and an amazing album, even sounding fresh nearly 20 years. It doesn't even need remastering any time soon! That's all the more impressive. There is so little not to like about this record, it is recommended to everyone from me.

PUBLIC ENEMY.......2006-11-13

WELL, BEING FROM "THE OLD SCHOOL"...YOU KNOW, "THE POSSITIVE ERA", ITS HARD TO FIND TODAY'S HIP-HOP SATISFYING TO MY SOUL.......SO I GO BACK, AND THERE I FIND WHAT I NEED.
PEACE

Wall of Sound.......2006-11-10

Possibly the greatest rap album of all time. The hard rhymer Chuck D. paired with the multi-layered production of Hank Shocklee(Bomb Squad) still packs as potent a punch as when it first dropped. Not to sleep on Flava, the greatest hype man in the business is essential to the final product; I can't imagine this album being as perfect as it is without him.

Mind Blowing from beginning to end...................2006-09-22

Chuck, Flav, Griff, Terminator X, The Bomb Squad and the S1W's was and still is one of the most powerful hip hop groups ever put together. Chuck's voice alone should be added as seperate member. Check the power of "Here it is BAM!" Absolute classic joints are Don't beleive the Hype, Black Steel, Night of the Living Baseheads, Terminator -Rock-n-Roll, She watch Channel Zero and rest of the album.

Average customer rating: Yeah baby he likes its raaaaawwww! I don't even like your profile! Tell me who's ever made an album like this?!! Solid Wu Tang Solo by a very dope yet very wierd mc...ODB ODB solo debut is niiiice -- R.I.P.

Return to the 36 Chambers Ol' Dirty Bastard Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Eccentrics | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music Similar Items: Tical Only Built 4 Cuban Linx Ironman Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) Nigga Please ASIN: B000002HFU Release Date: 1995-03-28

Tracks:

1. Intro
2. Shimmy Shimmy Ya
3. Baby C'mon
4. Brooklyn Zoo
5. Hippa To Da Hoppa
6. Raw Hide
7. Damage
8. Don't U Know
9. The Stomp
10. Goin' Down
11. Drunk Game (Sweet Sugar Pie)
12. Snakes
13. Brooklyn Zoo II (Tiger Crane)
14. Proteck Ya Neck II The Zoo
15. Cuttin' Headz
16. Dirty Dancin' (Bonus Track-CD Only)
17. Harlem World (Bonus Track-CD Only)

Amazon.com

Return's title and various lyrics acknowledge Wu-Tang's self-built mythology, but Ol' Dirty Bastard's solo debut, like the man himself, runs on its own idiosyncratic power. Rapping forcefully and on point--mumbling, singing, allowing weird wordless sounds to escape his throat in an assertion of his right to make random noise--ODB slips from mode to mode like Marvin Gaye juxtaposing the gruff and the smooth in the same song. The production, mostly by the RZA, sets the man down in the middle of funky, shape-shifting tracks to scream for blood, shout out to the Temptations and "you other grooops!" and threaten "any MC in any 52 states." "I love that guy," ODB secret identity Russell Jones declares of his alter ego at the outset; after a listen to this disc, it's likely at least part of you will, too. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

Yeah baby he likes its raaaaawwww!.......2007-03-23

ODB is one those people who is the life of the party, the only one with personality out of the group. Even though he is not the best MC out of the Wutang Clan he is not the worst(hello Ugod anybody). Standout Tracks: SHIMMY SHIMMY YA, BROOKLYN ZOO, HIPPA TO DA HOPPA, RAWHIDE, DAMAGE, THE STOMP, SNAKES, PROTECT YA NECKII THE ZOO, CUTTIN HEADZ and HARLEM WORLD. I'll admit that I still laugh my a** off when I hear Drunk Game(Sweet Sugar Pie). Filler: Brooklyn ZooII(Tiger Crane)(Ghostface verse was fire but the rest of the song is...... and Dirty Dancin(sounds like it was poorly mixed). Bottom Line: This Is ODB's best effort and unfortunately the best album he ever made(check every album after this one if you have doubt). Rza and company werent slacking on the production and Ol' Dirty and the guest appearances were exceptional on this album. REST IN PEACE RUSSELL JONES AKA ODB AKA DIRT MCGIRT AKA you know the rest!

I don't even like your profile!.......2007-03-23

Like common perceptions of ODB, I thought he was a clown. After listening to this whole album, I think ODB is a modern day Screamin' Jay Hawkins. When ODB rhymes welfare with.....welfare, not only is it hilarious, but incredibly heady as well, considering the shame associated with that word and the powerful and ironic way he rhymes it twice in a couplet. Forget all the serious hip hop heads. What's genius about ODB is that he's oblivious to pretension. He's pure.

Tell me who's ever made an album like this?!!.......2007-02-03

I remember when this came out when I was a teenager. My friend had it playin in his tape deck, I didn't know what to think. "What the hell is this?" There's no father to his style, total freedom of self expression! Brilliant, I had to have it. Swiped his copy and never gave it back! Played it more than any other tape I ever owned. Played the damn thing till it wouldn't play no more and was forced to find a buddy with a copy on disc to steal off of! Haha..

My personal fav of the Wu catalog, hell it's one of my favorite albums of all time! Nothing sounds like it. One of the most original and misunderstood artists, this album still sounds just as crazy and intense as the day it first came out. My favorite tracks are Don't You Know and Goin Down, "Soooome..wheeere oover the raainboww!" Come on, are you kiddin me? The beats were grimmey and erie, mixing perfect with ODB's drunken attitude and style. The contributions from Wu members help ground the album with their straightforward rhymes while at the same time complimenting Dirt McGirt's unique vocal approach. This album stand in a class all it's own. No-one will ever be able to duplicate what this MC brought to the table, let alone know where to even start!

This album is an example of a artist doin his own thing and goin for it.
If you want to hear the same old thing, another boring, sharp dressin, mediocre MC, spitting the same old monotone raps that we've been hearing for the last countless years than turn on the TV and save your money. "This is something old,,, and dirty....... and duurrtayyy!
Yeah"

Rest in Peace O.D.B.

Solid Wu Tang Solo by a very dope yet very wierd mc...ODB.......2006-09-06

I'm not a huge fan of ODB but I love Wu Tang So I eventually gave this album a try. First let me start off by saying there were only 2 or 3 tracks I was feeling, I donno it was pretty hard to get adjusted too for some reason. The sound was wierd especially just hearing O.D.B without any back most of the time. But Time went on and some day I just finally started getting into this album, so to make it sure unlike most wu albums it may take awhile for some maybe few to get into. I was many people who at once though the rzarecta wasted some very precious beats on O.D.B(Like I was saying b4 i really wasnt diggin most of the album but as time went by i really started to appreciate it and started getting adjusted more to O.D.B crazy yet very profound lyrics). Its not the best wu solo out there but it still deffenitley is a must have. O.D.B rips the mic in some pretty dope songs and RZA backs it up with his usual crazy style of Kun Fu crazy wu tang banger beats.

1. Intro
2. Shimmy Shimmy Ya - 10/10 c
3. Baby C'mon - 9/10
4. Brooklyn Zoo - 10/10
5. Hippa To Da Hoppa - 10/10 CLASSIC ODB TRACK
6. Raw Hide - 8/10
7. Damage - 9.5/10
8. Don't U Know - 8/10
9. The Stomp - 10/10
10. Goin' Down -8/10
11. Drunk Game - 7/10
12. Snakes - 9/10
13. Brooklyn Zoo II - 8/10
14. Proteck Ya Neck II The Zoo - 8/10
15. Cuttin' Headz - 8/10
16. Dirty Dancin' 7/10
17. Harlem World - 7/10

It has its ups and downs but no doubt a wu banger, pick this one up its probably odb's best and rza brings out his usual dope production.

Final Score
4.2/5

ODB solo debut is niiiice -- R.I.P........2006-05-01

The 2nd member of the Wu to drop a solo did it with fashioon. Everyone loved the Single Shimmy Shimmy Ya and the odd and crazy drunk style was off the charts. With 16 songs you get a good deal of ODB but guests are heavy, on about half of the songs and all of the Wu is the album other then Inspectah Deck and U-God and some Wu-related cats as well. Production is the classic Wu age sound and mostly handled by the RZA (13 of the 17 songs). With ODB, True Master and 4th Disciple all doing a little as well. Of the 16 songs there is 2 or 3 I skip over, I can only take so much off his drunk rambling some times. A few are almost classic material or classic and the rest are good with maybe 3 that are ok. For real Wu fans and fans of the ODB you have to have this, it's definitely his best solo album.

#2 - 10 (CLASSIC!!, nothing else to say)
#3 - 6.5
#4 - 9 (nice beat)
#5 - 9 (tight beat)
#6 - 8 (f/ Method Man & Raekwon)
#7 - 7.5 (f/ GZA)
#8 - 5 (f/ Killah Priest)
#9 - 8
#10 - 7
#11 - 3.5 (After a while it gets too annoying)
#12 - 8.5 (f/ killah Priest, RZA, Masta killa, buddah monk -- nice beat)
#13 - 7 (f/ ghostface killah -- has some nice samples and odb moments after the song)
#14 - 9 (f/ buddah monk, prodigal sun, 12 0' Clock, 60 second assassin, murdo, zu keeper, shorty $h!+ stain -- tight beat)
#15 - 8 (f/ RZA)
#16 - 7.5 (f/ method man)
#17 - 4

R.I.P
Russell Tyrone Jones -- b. 11/15/68 - d. 11/13/04 --- b. Fort Green, NY

Check all my Reviews

Average customer rating: The album that defined an era Biggie's Best! The Album That Set The Year '94 (Rating: 10 out of 10- -5 stars)

Ready to Die: The Remaster The Notorious B.I.G. Manufacturer: Bad Boy ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Life After Death Reasonable Doubt Born Again Me Against the World Greatest Hits ASIN: B000JJ4PDK Release Date: 2006-11-14

Tracks:

1. Intro
2. Things Done Changed
3. Gimme the Loot
4. Machine Gun Funk
5. Warning
6. Ready to Die
7. One More Chance
8. #! *@ Me (Interlude)
9. What
10. Juicy
11. Everyday Struggle
12. Me & My B*tch
13. Big Poppa
14. Respect
15. Friend of Mine
16. Unbelievable
17. Suicidal Thoughts
18. Who Shot Ya
19. Just Playing (Dreams)

Tracks:

1. Juicy [DVD]
2. Big Poppa [DVD]
3. Warning [DVD]
4. One More Chance [DVD]
5. Unbelievable [DVD][Live]

Customer Reviews:

The album that defined an era.......2007-07-10

The Notorious B.I.G.'s 1994 debut arrived at a turning point for hip hop music. As the old school style from the east coast was slowly growing stale, a new funkier and angrier approach was steadily growing in the form of gangsta rap from the west coast. Then, of course, came "Ready to Die," one of the finest hip hop albums of all time, and one that bridged the gap between the old and new schools. This is the album that introduced the world to the incredible rapper and incredible character that was Christopher Wallace. A young, overweight Brooklyn native, a father, and a former hustler, Biggie impressed listeners not only with his talent but his personality on the mic. Technically, he is not short of amazing. His ingenious punchlines, late-night stories, threats, and jokes are delivered in his raspy, cheeky voice with precise technique, always on time and in a perfect flow. Lyrically, he covers many topics but the quality is ever so consistent. On one song, he'll be telling a story of crime, on the next song he'll be poking fun at a ghetto loser, or seducing a woman, nostalgically reminiscing over the past, or dramatically philosophizing about the meaning of life and death. His verses are all meticulously written and never lose your attention. Another reason "Ready to Die" is so great is the production. The young Sean Combs anchors a production team that uses extensive, clever sampling to create a unique musical backdrop for Biggie. The album is well divided between radio friendly singles and harder, darker songs that would be too rough for radio. The hardcore tracks inspired an entire generation of grimy New York rappers that would reign towards the late 1990s, but the influence of the popular singles could also be felt on urban radio for years to come. "Ready to Die" is an absolutely classic hip hop album and one of the finest ever, a must have for any collection.

The album begins with a dramatic intro, which gives way to "Things Done Changed," a well-produced and ironic look back at Biggie's humble roots. "Gimme the Loot" is one of the songs that shows his lyrical genius, where he plays multiple characters in a conversation, creating a classic track. "Machine Gun Funk" is an upbeat, funky cut sampling a song by Lords of the Underground for the hook. On the excellent "Warning," Biggie again plays multiple characters during conversation, before dropping philosophy on backstabbers and issuing threats. The title track follows accordingly, as does the original mix of "One More Chance," a song to a woman about their relationship (the more popular remix is not included on the tracklist). Perhaps my favorite song is the Method Man collaboration "The What," a song where the two depressed MCs drop some dark knowledge and philosophy over a great beat. It doesn't get much better than having two of New York's finest rappers over a solid 1994-styled beat. "Juicy" is an absolute classic, an emotional and effective rags-to-riches look at his upbringing, effectively sampling an 80s R&B hit by Mtume. Another of my favorites is the hopeful "Everyday Struggle," which is blessed with the nicest beat on the album, a sunny, clever production over which Biggie recounts the troubles of trying to get by. "Me & My B..." is a humorous and enjoyable tune, followed by the unforgettable hit "Big Poppa." This song has a perfect, Isley Brothers-sampling beat, a head-nodding funker, and shows the humorously seductive BIG at his finest. The well done "Respect" and catchy "Friend of Mine" are worthy deep-album cuts, and the DJ Premier-produced "Unbelievable" has an unforgettable chorus and production. The album closes with one of his most stunning works, "Suicidal Thoughts," a depressing insight of life from a suicidal person.

Overall, "Ready to Die" is inspiring, beautiful, and immensely entertaining. This album doesn't sound like it has aged a bit, and even thirteen yeras later sounds as fresh and incredible as the day it dropped. Listeners of any age should be able to appreciate this masterpiece, it's so consistent that there's not one piece of skip material over seventeen tracks. Unarguably one of the finest hip hop albums ever, I cannot recommend it any higher.

Today, the black covered "Remaster" is the only version in print as far as I know, because last year some lawsuits emergedo over sampling issues. The remaster includes two bonus tracks, "Who Shot Ya?" and "Just Playing," both worthy additions to the tracklist. Also, the DVD is a welcome bonus, with videos and live performances. It's a pretty nice package for a good price.

Biggie's Best!.......2007-04-09

Although Life After Death was excellent, Ready to Die was a landmark album. It is cool to hear the angrier Biggie on some songs and an others the smooth, slick Biggie we all know. His flow is outstanding and his lyrics and content truly capture his life's story. It will always remain one of the top hip hop albums of all time.

The Album That Set The Year '94 (Rating: 10 out of 10- -5 stars).......2006-12-14

Can anyone forget this album? This album (as well as Nas' "Illmatic" were the front runners of the year 1994. Christopher "Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls)" Wallace debuted with this album with the lead single "Juicy". A rags to riches song that still gets played here in 2006. Biggie's lyrical skills were excellent. I hear a lot of rappers (who I will be here all day naming) saying excellent lines that came from Biggie. I think to myself "Damn, this guy said everything".

The album is excellent too. A lot of these songs are about drugs, robbing, and what not. Big was just rhyming about things that he went through before he had a record deal, trying to survive and eat. Who could blame him? "Give Me The Loot" is one of those songs about his struggles (some words were edited in this song. I'm pretty sure rhyming about robbing a pregnant woman was going to gain some negative attention). "Machine Gun Funk" is self explanitory on how a good song it was. "Warning" was a short song and video about people targeting him for his money. "One More Chance" is a great song about how he gets his females. The song would be remixed and made into a video a year later, but both versions sound great.

Guest appearances are only one. Method Man, back when his rhyme skills were phenomonal, would rhyme on "The What". Classic track if you ask me.

Production was by Mr. Cee, Puff Daddy, and Easy Mo Bee. True, Puffy might be the "king of beat jacking" and what not, but he did a damn good job with them. The Isley Brothers "Between The Sheets" would be made into the classic single "Big Poppa" was one of them.

This album was pulled off the shelves earlier of this year, because of unauthorized sampling on this album. But recently I've seeing it back on shelves. I guess it got settled. I bought this back in 2003 when it had the origonal white album cover. If you purchased this in 2004, you get the album with a few extra tracks like the more popular "One More Chance (Remix)". And you get the DVD with all the videos that came from this album. This album had a heavy impact in 1994, is a classic and is a must have for any hip hop collection. Most of these songs are rehashed into choppy verses on his postmothous albums unfortunately. But this is where most of them origonally came from. Biggies legacy helped influenced a laundry list your favorite rappers today, who bite his style. That alone should explain how this impacted hip hop. Word.

Rest In Peace Biggie Smalls

Lyrics: A+
Production: A+
Guest Appearances: A+
Musical Vibes: A
Overall: A+

Favorite Tracks: Give Me The Loot, Machine Gun Funk, Warning, One More Chance, Juicy, Every Day Struggle, Me & My B*tch, Big Poppa, Respect, Friend Of Mine, Suicidal Thoughts

Peace!

Average customer rating: Mad about Baroque The beauty of the songs brings tears to my eyes Brilliant Be Welcome then, great Sirs (and Mesdames). Brilliant Purcell Disc

Essential Purcell Henry Purcell , New College Choir Oxford , King's Consort , Robert King , Roy Goodman , Charles Daniels , John Mark Ainsley , James Bowman , Peter Buckoke , Jane Coe , Rogers Covey-Crump , Gillian Fisher , Michael George , Miles Golding , Jane Norman , Barbara Bonney , Mark Caudle , William Carter , King's Consort Choir , Helen Gough , Paul Nicholson , Angela East , Barry Guy , Tessa Bonner , Jerome Finnis , Rupert Bawden , Lucy Howard , Richard Campbell , Susan Addison , James O'Donnell , and Stephen Saunders Manufacturer: Hyperion UK ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Purcell, Henry | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Incidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Purcell, Henry | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Odes | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Bonney, Barbara | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Choruses | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Choruses | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Operas | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Operas | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Purcell, Henry | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bonney, Barbara | ( B ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Purcell: Odes for St. Cecilia's Day - Music for Queen Mary / Taverner Consort Purcell: The Fairy Queen Purcell: Songs & Airs / Argenta, North, Boothby, Nicholson, Toll Purcell: Dido and Aeneas / James, Lewis, Baker, Herincx Purcell: Full Anthems & Organ Music ASIN: B000002ZDU Release Date: 1995-04-10

Tracks:

1. Complete Odes And Welcome Songs Vol. 5: Welcome, Welcome Glorious Morn. Symphony And Opening Chorus
2. Complete Odes And Welcome Songs Vol. 3: Be Welcome Then, Great Sir
3. Complete Secular Solo Songs Vol.1: Oh, Fair Cedaria
4. The Choir Of The King's Consort: Hear My Prayer, O Lord
5. Great Baroque Arias: When I Am Laid In Earth ('Dido's Lament')
6. Complete Anthems And Services Vol.1: Let Mine Eyes Run Down With Tears (Part 1)
7. Complete Odes And Welcome Songs Vol.4: The Sparrow And The Gentle Dove
8. Complete Secular Solo Songs Vol.1: If Music Be The Food Of Love (First Setting)
9. Complete Anthems And Services Vol.5: Rejoice In The Lord Always ('The Bell Anthem')
10. Complete Anthems And Services Vol.3: Hosanna To The Highest
11. Complete Anthems And Services Vol.7: Thou Knowest, Lord, The Secrets Of Our Hearts
12. Mr. Henry Purcell's Most Admirable Composures: Fairest Isle, All Isles Excelling
13. Complete Odes And Welcome Songs Vol.6: Mark, How Readily Each Pliant String
14. Complete Odes And Welcome Songs Vol.8: Sound The Trumpet
15. Complete Secular Solo Songs Vol.3: She Loves And She Confesses Too
16. Complete Odes And Welcome Songs Vol.8: O How Blest Is The Isle
17. Complete Anthems And Services Vol.3: Remember Not, Lord, Our Offences
18. Complete Anthems And Services Vol. 11: An Evening Hymn
19. Complete Church Music Vol.2: Vouchsafe, O Lord, To Keep Us This Day
20. Complete Odes And Welcome Songs Vol.2: With Rapture Of Delight... Hail Bright Cecilia

Amazon.com essential recording

The "Essential" Purcell? Well, you could get a bunch of critics to argue about that for a few days, but in the meantime, here is a sampler of highlights from the King's Consort's three admirable Purcell series: the Complete Odes and Welcome Songs, Complete Anthems and Services, and Complete Secular Solo Songs. There are, of course, some of Purcell's most-performed pieces (which probably are "essential"): Dido's Lament from Dido and Aeneas, "Sound the trumpet" from Come, ye sons of Art, Rejoice in the Lord alway (the "Bell Anthem," named for the string figure at the opening that sounds like pealing bells), the gently patriotic "Fairest isle, all isles excelling" (sung by a miscast James Bowman), and a selection from the funeral music for Queen Mary. There are also some delightful surprises--particularly among the little-known secular songs and church music. The plaintive "O fair Cedaria" gets a lovely performance by Barbara Bonney (a singer not usually associated with Purcell); tenor Rogers Covey-Crump (possibly the ideal high tenor for Purcell) sings the enchanting "If music be the food of love"; the church anthems "Let mine eyes run down with tears" and "Remember not, O Lord, our offences" have some startling harmonies as daring as any Monteverdi ever wrote. If you're unfamiliar with Purcell, this reasonably priced disc is a good place to start exploring without a big initial investment. --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

Mad about Baroque.......2007-02-12

This is a terrific CD. The music is breathtaking. Just buy IT !!!!!

The beauty of the songs brings tears to my eyes.......2002-08-21

Absolutely beautiful baroque music! The arrangament, singing and instrumentation is superb. It is too bad that Henry Purcell is not as widely known as Bach, because he should be recognized equally well."The Sparrow and the Gentle dove" is alone worth the price of the album! I can not stop playing it!

Brilliant.......2001-10-31

Like in his renditions of Handel's oratorios, Robert King manages to bring a freshness and strenght to Purcell's music that I had seldom heard before. This CD also features some of the best performers of early music in the world. My favourite tracks are Oh, Fair Cedaria, sung by the multi-talented Barbara Bonney; Dido's Lament from Dido and Aeneas, sung by Gillian Fisher; She Loves and she Confesses too, sung by the wonderful Susan Gritton; and Welcome, Welcome Glorious Morn, sung by Rogers Covey-Crump. The only track I didn't find absolutely wonderful is Fairest Isle, sung here by James Bowman. Don't get me wrong, I generally love Mr Bowman, I think that his performance in Mr Purcell's Most Admirable Composures (also conducted by Robert King) makes it another essential Purcell recording; but I find that Fairest Isle was much better done elsewhere, particularly by Christopher Hogwood and Barbara Bonney.

These songs aren't only beautiful, they're also poignant, sweet and unpretentious. I think that it will be very clear to anyone who listens to this recording that Mr Purcell was one of the finest composers that ever lived.

Be Welcome then, great Sirs (and Mesdames)........2001-10-20

If anyone has benefitted from the reversion in the last three or so decades to period instruments and historical reconstruction, it is Henry Purcell. Before, he was merely great, the peerless word-setter in the English language, a virtuoso of boundless range, a professional composer whose offical commissions were always imbued with personality and invention. But period instrumentation has added to this a greater depth, an other-worldly texture of sound. With his intricate, multi-part vocal writing, his preference for low, rumbling instruments such as the bass viol and the strange and remarkable theorbo, as well as his often sombre and low-key subject matter and treatment, Purcell creates a round, glowing, humming sound as pregnantly full as dub reggae.

This has an extraordinary effect on the listener. Whereas Bach, with his mathematical abstractions, sounds universal and timeless, Purcell's music takes the listener back 300 years, back to different ways of thinking about, feeling about and addressing things we still think etc. about today - death, love, friendship. The emotion is timeless, but the music's beauty is alien, THEIRS, hence its preciousness.

A lot of intelligence has gone into the unity of this compilation, beginning with two Welcomes (to the dawn and to the listener, in this case a King), and ending with thoughts of evening, death and a Baroque 'Thank you for the music'. These are bright, fanfare-like works, but the predominant mood is slow, ruminative, quiet. The selection covers the wide range of Purcell's oeuvre, from opera and funeral marches to secular songs and odes, and includes his most famous vocal works - Dido's Lament from Dido and Aeneas, sung by Gillian Fisher, and never more evocative of pagan loss and death; the massive 'Bell Anthem', with its ingenious opening symphony and joyful antiphon; and a miraculously serene 'Evening Hymn', Dido's opposite, death indicating hope, the treble voice swirling over the heavy ground bass like the soul released from the inert body.

it might seem quixotic to choose highlights from an exemplary collection of highlights, but the entry of the strings washing over the serene repetition of 'Be Welcome then, great Sir' always makes my heart stop still, while the musical picture of 'Bold Honour', the 'noisy Nothing, stalking shade', blocking the poet's amorous intentions in 'She loves and confesses too', adds a chilling hint of life's transience to a bouyantly bawdy song.

Brilliant Purcell Disc .......2000-11-30

With this album director and Purcell expert Robert King provides the listener with an excellent introduction to the composer's vocal works. The pieces presented here were taken from Mr. King's recordings of 'The Complete Odes and Welcome Songs', 'The Complete Anthems and Services', 'The Complete Secular Solo Songs' and diverse anthology discs. King, his wonderful soloists and musicians do the brilliance of Purcell's music fully justice. Whether he was commissioned by royalty, the church or theatre, Purcell shone in all areas. This disc certainly demonstrates the variety and originality of his craft, not to speak of his uncanny ability of setting words to music.

An outstanding Purcell offering. With a beautiful perfomance by Barbara Bonney of 'Oh, fair Cedaria'. Susan Gritton is equally captivating in 'She loves and she confesses too'. Gillian Fisher's rendition of the famous 'Dido's Lament' is haunting and poignant. Further an intelligent and brilliant 'Hosanna to the highest' by Michael George. James Bowman and Michael Chance sparkle in the countertenor duet 'Sound the trumpet' (from 'Come Ye sons of Art away'). And I should not forget to mention the joyous, luminous performance of the beautiful 'Bell Anthem'. To name but a few favourites, only James Bowman's 'Fairest Isle' was a disappointment.

Those who are familiar with Purcell's music will get an excellent disc with some of his most beloved works. If you are new to Purcell, this is, as already said a great introduction. Which might be the incentive to further explorations of Purcell.

by stardustraven

Average customer rating: ok, wanted a little more variety This is what got me into Public Enemy! PE Keep Bringin That Noise! [and sonnin' Viper] Kids, put away your Paul Wall and Nelly albums...this is some REAL rap music I think they're better than DMC, De La and even NWA...

Power to the People and the Beats: Public Enemy's Greatest Hits Public Enemy Manufacturer: Def Jam ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | 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: Run-D.M.C. - Greatest Hits The Very Best of Big Daddy Kane 20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of Eric B. & Rakim Straight Outta Compton It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back ASIN: B00021LQ82 Release Date: 2005-08-02

Tracks:

1. You're Gonna Get Yours
2. Public Enemy No.1
3. Rebel Without A Pause
4. Bring The Noise
5. Don't Believe The Hype
6. Prophets Of Rage
7. Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos
8. Fight The Power
9. Welcome To The Terrordome
10. 911 Is A Joke
11. Brothers Gonna Work It Out
12. Can't Do Nuttin' For Ya Man
13. Can't Truss It
14. Shut Em Down
15. By The Time I Get To Arizona
16. Hazy Shade Of Criminal
17. Give It Up
18. He Got Game

Amazon.com

Public Enemy is not the kind of group that does compromise--either you own It Takes A Nation of Millions To Hold Us Back and its explosive follow-up Fear of a Black Planet in their entirety or you simply hate music. So use this all-too-brief primer merely as a map to find your way to the albums that actually shook the world, mixing blunt politics with hard-hitting beats and Chuck D's prophet-like zeal for affecting change. If nothing else, tracks like "Bring The Noise" and "Fight The Power" serve as timely reminders of how much power hip-hop can wield when not tripped up in name-calling and bitch-slapping (D famously dubbed the genre "CNN for black people"), while on "911 is a Joke" Flava Flav proves there's a fine-line between laughter and tears. --Aidin Vaziri

Customer Reviews:

ok, wanted a little more variety.......2006-11-11

not bad, but i thought it'd have some of the other well-known hits on it as well. good for reminiscing about my youth!

This is what got me into Public Enemy!.......2006-08-01

Without a doubt, hip-hop was in its prime during the late 80's and early 90's. Unfortunatly, I didn't even exist untill '91...I was born into the generation of cookie-cutter "gangsta" (c)rap like 50 cent and lil john...oh, how lucky am I...

Anyway, I had heard a few samples from p.e. on tv and the internet, and decided to look for one of their cds. They sounded so different than anything I've heard before. Chuck D's vocal energy and style grabs your attention right away, while Flava's crazy wierdness keeps you hooked. While looking through Wallmart's cd selection, I came across this cd and decided that a greatest hits cd would be a perfect introduction to a group I had never really listened to before.(It was only 10 bucks, so what harm could it be?) Lemme tell ya, after listening through the cd once, my jaw was dropped, and I was floored.

First off, for any fans of pop-rap with candy-coated beats, this cd is NOT for you. Public Enemy are raw, hard, and abrasive. They're definatly not for everyone.

Second, their lyrics are political, and confront many serious issues that were being ignored during that time. Pay close attention, and you'll see that they actually have something important to say and aren't just grunting about their cars, money, hoes, bling-bling, whatever.

Finally, while their music may sound somewhat cacaphony at times, they were definatly way ahead of their time. They have the rare ability to make seemingly clashing noises work together in an intriguing and almost harmoneous way. For example, "Rebel Without A Pause" uses a repetitive screeching tea kettle in the background, which would be ear-drum-breaking in any other circumstance. However, combined with the song's heavy bass and Chuck D's lyrical wit, the kettle becomes less of a nussance and more of an actual instrument that enhances the song's quality. (Yeah, that sounds really stupid, but I don't have any other way of describing it.)

So yeah, that's another one of my rambling reviews. I would recomend this cd to hip-hop fans who are open-minded and ready for beats that are rough and different from anything else. I've become a huge fan of p.e. because of this cd, and I plan to buy more of their work. That's all for now. PEACE

PE Keep Bringin That Noise! [and sonnin' Viper].......2006-07-06

What else can be said about this release? The entire collection of singles (from their Def Jam period) from the most important and influential group ever. It doesnt get much better than this.

Public Enemy albums are consistent affairs with segues, inserts and instrumentals acting as the musical glue for each release. Some have therefore argued that listening to the singles in isolation is a less cohesive affair. I disagree. While Chuck D maintains that the group has never been singles orientated, their discography begs to differ: throughout the early 1990's, Public Enemy single releases were massive affairs accompanied by groundbreaking videos and fantastic cover art. Remember that "Fight the Power" only appeared on "Fear of a Black Planet" some several months after it "hit" - as did the B side release of "Rebel without A Pause" prior to "It Takes a Nation of Millions...".

This collection of singles reinforces their creative output, musicianship and legacy. The groups most commerciably accessible offerings are all here in their high-rotation-strong-unit-sales glory: the aforementioned "Fight The Power", "Hazy Shade of Criminal", "Shut Em Down", "911 Is A Joke" and the hugely popular "Give It Up", arguably the groups most successful single in terms of retail sales.

PE have crammed 18 cuts on to this release - but this just barely represents their release schedule. There are several cuts that have been released as singles and/or videos that are ommitted, including "Livin In A Zoo" (from the CB4 soundtrack), "Get off My Back", "Shake Your Booty", "I Stand Accused", "Louder Than A Bomb (Remix)", "Anti N*gga Machine/Burn Hollywood Burn" and the love-it-or-hate-it Anthrax thrash version of "Bring Tha Noize". A double disc edition with say, 28 tracks would have been nice - but then again, Def Jam/Universal dont want to cannibalise any trailing album sales the groups catalogue may still command!

Oh yeah, the reviewer "Viper" is the embodiment of the typical ignorant white American youth that PE originally set out to educate! Its unfortunate, but he of his ilk will never understand what true hip hop is or represents. "Hip hop" to Viper and most other Generation Y'ers constists of gun toting and talking about how much money you have and how many "biyatchs" youre doing. Grafitti? Breaking? DJ'ing? Beatboxing? Get outa here - that stuff's ancient, right Viper? Cats like Juvenile and Fitty Cent are the truth yeah!? heheheheh!!!!

Not all is lost though - I know plenty of young cats who take the time to check their history and educate themselves. Its just that people like Viper are already a lost cause - this album is the antithesis to his played out, thugged out BS so it will never get heard. But thats okay, cos dudes like me will never check for G Unit or Juvenile - so like PE's ratio of message:music, in the end there is some balance...

Kids, put away your Paul Wall and Nelly albums...this is some REAL rap music.......2006-04-12

Def Jam finally did what was right and released a complete Public Enemy greatest hits compilation. All of the PE classics are here including "Fight The Power", "Welcome To the Terrordome", "Bring The Noise", and "Can't Trust It". If you are not familiar with PE, this compilation is a great opportunity for you to become acquainted with one of the greatest rap groups of all time.

I think they're better than DMC, De La and even NWA..........2006-04-08

Back when Public Enemy were shooting holes in the template, hip hop was already beginning to fracture as Bronx rapper KRS One traded insults with Queens resident MC Shan. But PE's agenda travelled beyond petty territorialism. Their look and sound was without precedent. It would change the face of music in the late twentieth century.

British rock critics hearing white noise and anger, knee-jerked their Punk Rock eulogies but Chuck D (aided by his comic foil Flava Flav) had too much to say to fit in that bracket.

The impact of their second album, It Takes A Nation Of Millions... , is still to be fully realised within hip hop. It made black politics iconic and inspirational to the dispossessed of the nation, and it did it with a soundtrack that reconfigured black music's past into a maximum velocity present.

Producers the Bomb Squad looped funk, jazz, soul, rock - and anything else they could lay their hands on - into a wall of sound that found its natural home way up in the red. Into it, Chuck D's proselytising lyrical barrage merged to form the greatest hip hop act of all time.

Almost everything here is of the highest grade, but for me the pummelling "Welcome To The Terrordome" - the lead-off single from their third album - sounds like the most exciting five minutes ever committed to wax. It's so fierce that it makes the hip hop that followed sound just a little less significant than you thought.

As a summary of a modern musical giant, this album is essential.

Average customer rating:

From Nothin' to Somethin' Fabolous Manufacturer: Def Jam ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Special Occasion Street Love Double Up We the Best Music Is My Savior ASIN: B000NJL07A Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

1. From Nothin' To Somethin' Intro
2. Yep, I'm Back
3. Change Up feat. Akon
4. Make Me Better feat. Ne-Yo
5. Baby Don't Go feat. T- Pain
6. Return Of The Hustle feat. Swizz Beatz
7. Gangsta Don't Play feat. Junior Reid
8. Real Playa Like feat. Lloyd
9. First Time feat. Rihanna
10. Diamonds feat. Young Jeezy
11. Brooklyn feat. JAY-Z & Uncle Murda
12. I'm The Man feat. Red Café
13. Jokes On You feat. Pusha T
14. What Should I Do feat. Lil' Mo

Average customer rating: One of Wyclef's Greatest works Love Wyclef Bon Bagay! Love It!!!!!! Great WORLD album

Welcome to Haiti: Creole 101 Wyclef Jean Manufacturer: Koch Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Merengue | Latin Music | Styles | Music Cumbia | Latin Music | Styles | Music Contemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Rap & Hip-Hop General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Rap & Hip-Hop General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 International | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rap & Hip-Hop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Preacher's Son Presents the Carnival Featuring the Refugee Allstars The Ecleftic: 2 Sides II a Book The Agronomist Masquerade ASIN: B0002WZTB6 Release Date: 2004-10-19

Tracks:

1. Jean Dominique Intro
2. 24 E Tan Pou Viv
3. President
4. Bicentennial
5. Generation X
6. Party By The Sea
7. Haitian Mafia
8. Le Ou Marye
9. Fistibal Festival
10. La Bamba
11. Bay Micro'm Volume
12. Proud To Be African
13. Douce
14. Lavi New York
15. Kreyol
16. Nou Va Rive
17. Bonus Track

Customer Reviews:

One of Wyclef's Greatest works.......2007-05-19

This album is probably one of the best albums I have heard in a long time. It tells some of Haiti's history and gives alot of respect to the rest of Carribean. It reveals Haiti's proud history of Independence.Dieu vous bénit Wyclef. Bonjour le Pacifique du sud. Ceci est un grand cd. Great CD.

Love Wyclef.......2007-04-15

I loved the fugees and love wyclef. His albums always have the carribean flavor. Must have in the collection it is a classic.

Bon Bagay!.......2006-03-20

This is a great CD for anyone who love Caribbean music, especially Konpa Kreyol. Se yon bon bagay ke li ye. Li gen bon mizik ladan.

Love It!!!!!!.......2006-02-23

I love this cd. It's upbeat and fun. I listen to it everyday. I hope he puts out another cd in this same style. My favorite song is President but Fistibal festival is a close second. There's not a song on here that I don't like. I highly recommend this cd.

Great WORLD album.......2005-12-16

This is quite possibly my favorite album ever. It doesn't fit in with Wyclef's past rap and hip-hop albums, but it is an excellent world/carribean cd. I especially like Bicentennial. If you want to have an uplifting album with great flow, buy this one. I believe that Wyclef should continue both with this carribean and his rap as well.

International Music:

1. Fanamby
2. Feuille a Feuille [Import]
3. Foreplay [Import]
4. From the Vaults [Box set] [Import]
5. Gaia's Dream
6. Gamelan of Central Java, Vol. 1: Classical Gendings
7. Gigs Case of Boowy [Import]
8. Glow - The Soundtrack [Soundtrack]
9. House of Drums
10. Indio Music [Import]

International Music

International Music