Stay

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Jeremy Camp makes no bones about his modern-rock influences. Stay displays strong, unapologetic musical tips of the hat to the likes of Creed and Dave Matthews as Camp wraps his faith-inspired message in a common sounding yet pleasing brand of gritty, blue-collar rock. While power rockers such as "Take My Life" flex their muscles, it's the driving urgency and catchy chorus of "Understand" and the smooth balladry of the string-laden "I Still Believe" that are most appealing. Like fellow Indiana native John Mellencamp, Camp deals head on with some tough issues, as evidenced by "Walk By Faith," a moving testament to Camp's struggle with accepting the death of his young wife, and "I Know Your Calling," a pledge from a man struggling to hold on to faith through tough times. --Michael Lyttle

Stay, Music, Jeremy Camp, CCM, Christian, Contemporary Christian Music, Pop, Religious / Contemp. Christian
Josh Groban
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Sweet
  • superb
  • Oh my Gosh, Josh!
  • a true star
  • Floodgates of the Heart
Josh Groban
Josh Groban
Manufacturer: Reprise / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005RGNI
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

  1. Alla Luce Dal Sole
  2. Gira Con Me
  3. You're Still You
  4. Cinema Paradiso (Se)
  5. To Where You Are
  6. Alejate
  7. Canto Alla Vita - featuring The Corrs
  8. Let Me Fall
  9. Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)
  10. Un Amore Per Sempre
  11. Home To Stay
  12. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring (w/Lili Haydn)
  13. The Prayer - featuring Charlotte Church

Amazon.com

There are worse things in life than making your acting debut on the much ballyhooed season finale of Ally McBeal, though teen operatic baritone Josh Groban doesn't seem destined to encounter them anytime soon. As the awkward high school student-client who asks the typically romance-jinxed Ally to his senior prom, Groban performed this debut album's "You're Still You" (adapted from film-composing legend Ennio Morricone's Academy Award-nominated score for Malèna, with lyrics by Linda Thompson) as a heart-tugging, literal showstopper. The young phenom was just 17 when veteran producer-writer David Foster tapped him to fill in for Andrea Bocelli at rehearsals for the 1999 Grammys, where Groban found himself suddenly dueting with Celine Dion.

Indeed, such were his fortunes that the young Foster protégé was forced to drop out of Carnegie Mellon when professional commitments--including this record--interfered. And if this collection tends to hew sometimes uncomfortably close to Foster's own MOR sonic instincts, the material offers enough challenges to display Groban's talent and the potential of his warm, mature voice: a lyrical take on another Morricone classic, "Cinema Paradiso"; melancholy readings of Don McLean's "Starry, Starry Night" and Albert Hammond's "Alejate"; masterfully dramatic takes of the Neapolitan "Alla Luca Del Sole" and "Canto Alla Vita," the latter featuring the Corrs. Many of Groban's performances here, including a neo prog-rock-opera take on Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" (with Lili Haydn), seem both bigger and bolder than their precious musical frameworks, a telling hint that Grand Opera can't be far from his grasp. As said earlier, there are worse things in life. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Sweet.......2007-07-13

Josh Groban and Charolette Church! Yum. This is a very good album and a must buy!

5 out of 5 stars superb.......2007-07-05

What a voice, what an artist, what a man.
Underestimated in Europe. His concert on 21 May 2007 in Amsterdam was superb!

5 out of 5 stars Oh my Gosh, Josh!.......2007-07-03

I love Josh Groban's music! It is romantic, mellow and beautiful :)
This CD has two songs on it that are very unusual. I believe both are from Cirque de Soleil, and draw you into the music--warning-- While driving, do not close your eyes!

5 out of 5 stars a true star.......2007-06-24

First saw and heard Josh on the Tv and was blown away by his talent! it was about a year later that I found out who he was and bought the first album and can honestly say that I have never tired of his work. Every song is magical and he is truely wonderful. Have since purchased all his work and have also had the priviledge of seeing him live in concert in Glasgow/Scotland and was amazed. such a talented young man with a truely magical voice

5 out of 5 stars Floodgates of the Heart.......2007-06-05

This CD played almost constantly in my wife's car for several years. Josh Groban's voice is so gentle and can go from gentleness to anthematic, almost operatic, textures. He sings in Italian effortlessly. The orchestration on "Cinema Paradiso" is enthralling with its emotional reach, powerful even with lyrics beyond my understanding. "To Where You Are" is one of the most gorgeous songs. Knowing how it moved my wife in the years before breast cancer proved stronger than her body, it touches me now, "Fly me up to where you are beyond the distant star I wish upon tonight to see you smile, if only for awhile to know you're there; a breath a ways to where you are." The song opens the floodgates of my heart. The Corrs were on Groban's 143 label when this release came out in 2001 and join him on the upbeat "Canto Alla Vita." Groban makes an interesting selection with Don McLean's "Vincent," polishing the melody to a fine sheen in ways that surpassed the original. Listening to Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" is like being in a sonic cathedral with Groban's voice matching the grandeur of the music. With Charlotte Church on "The Prayer," Groban concludes the set with the Carole Bayer Sager/David Foster composition that makes one contemplate the eternal, "Lead us to a place, find us with your grace, give us faith so we'll be safe." Groban's first CD enhances with repeated listening by virtue of the depth of musicianship and performance. I listen to it now hearing the music that moved the one I love to tears. It does the same for me. I hope it touches you too. Bravo!
Stay
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Getting Better
  • LOVE this CD!!!
  • Simply Red
  • Simply Red Returns
  • Outstanding Album
Stay
Simply Red
Manufacturer: Simplyred.Com
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Simplified
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  3. The Very Best of Simply Red
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ASIN: B000N3ST2U
Release Date: 2007-04-24

Tracks:

  1. The World and You Tonight
  2. So Not Over You
  3. Stay
  4. The Don't Have To Know
  5. Oh! What A Girl!
  6. Good Times Have Done Me Wrong
  7. Debris
  8. Lady
  9. Money
  10. The Death of The Cool
  11. Little Englander

Amazon.com

With young, British, soul stars like Amy Winehouse, Paolo Nutini, and Joss Stone crashing the American charts, what better time to celebrate the return of one of the original great blue-eyed soul singers, Simply Red's curly-mopped Mick Hucknall? Despite being dropped by its label in 2002, his band has flourished on its own, both artistically and commercially. Stay, Simply Red's third independent release, loses none of the crisp soul-jazz beauty that marked the group's late '80s heyday. It has a younger, fresher feel than 2003's elegant Home, but that does lead to more of a mixed bag. A pair of bite-the-hand-that-feeds protest tunes, "Money TV" and "The Death of the Cool," fall wide of the mark, but Hucknall makes up for it when he lets his shimmering voice rise above the electronic fanfare, delivering the classic love song "So Not Over You." Meanwhile, "They Don't Know" and the lively "Oh! What A Girl" prove that he can still give the new generation of soul singers a run for their money. --Aidin Vaziri

Album Description

2007 album produced and co-mixed by Andy Wright (Annie Lenow, Natalie Imbruglia).

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Getting Better.......2007-07-13

If you love Mick Hucknall's voice, you will not be disappointed. Every song is worth the purchase. All new material keeps getting better. I can't wait for the next Simply Red release.

5 out of 5 stars LOVE this CD!!!.......2007-07-13

Honestly, I did not even know "Simply Red" was still recording. I remember them from the 80's (Holding Back the Years), but can't remember anything from them since then. I was listening to a jazz station last week and heard "So Not Over You". I immediately came home and ordered the CD. I love it!!

5 out of 5 stars Simply Red.......2007-07-11

I was very pleased with the process of this purchase. It arrived in a very timely manner, and undammaged. I was also very pleased with this new CD by Simply Red. It has been many years since their last release, but it was worth the wait. I just hope it does'nt take as long for the next to arrive on the shelves.

4 out of 5 stars Simply Red Returns.......2007-07-06

This album reminds me of the earlier Simply Red works. It is a pleasure to have it on in the background. Be warned though, as in the past, there are songs on this album that will stick in your mind. Good to have Mick Hucknall and the band back.

5 out of 5 stars Outstanding Album.......2007-06-27

I have been a big fan of Simply Red, and was not disapointed with this album. I took it with me on a long road trip and listened to it several times, and it gets better with age! Even my husband loved it... The melodies are outstanding...
Stay with Me
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Vintage Norman
  • More Cool Licks
  • Rivals his best work
  • Missed opportunity
  • sounds like RAP
Stay with Me
Norman Brown
Manufacturer: Peak Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000NJL4WG
Release Date: 2007-04-24

Tracks:

  1. Let's Take A RideYou
  2. You Keep Lifting Me Higher
  3. Pop's Cool Groove
  4. It ain't Over BWB
  5. So In Love
  6. Stay With Me
  7. Soul Dance
  8. Every Little Thing
  9. A Quiet Place
  10. I Need You

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Vintage Norman.......2007-07-08

This is Norman Brown in all phases. I have to admit the songs are original. However, I thought that his previous album,"West Coast Cooling" was one of his better album's. It had an upper-tempo, and a relaxing laid-back feeling of smooth jazz. Some cuts on this album has a little bit of Wes Montgomery and Lee Ritenour. I can say this because, I have all of Norman Brown's CD's.

4 out of 5 stars More Cool Licks .......2007-06-27

and catchy musical phrases. I continue to love his guitarwork, if your a Norman Brown fan you'll like this CD. The only caveat is I'm not a big fan of the singing (2 or 3 songs). It's not bad, just not what I buy a Norman Brown CD for...

5 out of 5 stars Rivals his best work.......2007-06-16

I guess it all depends on how you measure an album. Here's I how see this effort:

2 Lame Tracks (6,10)- kind of lame, the vocals ruined any chance of these being good songs.

4 Good Tracks (4,5,7,8) - the kind that fill out a really good smooth jazz outing

3 Excellent Track (2,3,9) - tracks you'll love to hear for the next month and will have trouble choosing whether or not to include on your own "Best of Norman Brown" mix CD.

1 Best NB Track Ever (1) - "Let's Take a Ride" is my favorite NB track ever, at least for now. It has that feel-good groove and great melodic guitar strokes. You know you shouldn't, but there is a lot of tempatation to listen to it over and over.

While this has more "lame" tracks than "After the Storm" or "Celebration" (my two fave NB discs) its "best 4" are all as good as any tracks on those discs, so I give this one 5 stars!

2 out of 5 stars Missed opportunity.......2007-06-11

I've been reading all these comments and it's hard to believe that so many people (Including a smooth jazz webradio owner) praise this new Norman Brown's album like his best album to date. Arguably Norman Brown is one of the most gifted smooth jazz artist you can find. His MoJazz recordings will remain for many years to come as an absolute reference point for the genre. Said that and after carefully listened "Stay with me" quite a few times I can't find a genuine explanation why so many people agree on this new album as his best work. Surrounded by an amazing crew (including his partners with B.W.B., trumpeter Rick Braun and saxman Kirk Whalum)Norman Brown is unable to ignite the fire that I personally expect from a musician of his caliber. Bland vocals (Norman definetely should stick to his guitar and ocassional scats) mixed with a set of instrumentals that won't surpass anything Norman Brown has done to the present. "Soul Dance" and "Pop's Cool Groove" (you can tell Paul Brown is behind this composition) are the only songs that vaguely reminded me "After the Storm", til this day in my humble opinion the best Norman Brown's album and without any stellar names in the personnel. I feel a great opportunity has been missed this time around considering the outstanding group of musicians available for this work. (Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum, Paul Brown, Sam Riney, Brian McKnight, Paulinho Da Costa and the list goes on). Even so,I still remain loyal to Norman Brown as one of my favorite smooth jazz artist and given time, he once again will amaze me with his unique talent and versatility.

1 out of 5 stars sounds like RAP.......2007-06-02

I really like Norman Brown. He reminds me of the late great Wes Montgomery, and Mr Brown was inspired by his music. However, this CD has only one good cut, mixed with what sounds like Rap music. I think his title begs the question, "Stay with Me". I don't think so, smooth jazz, please on your next CD.
Cieli di Toscana
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • See Other Andrea Bocelli Review
  • Emotional therapy!
  • Great music!
  • Cieli di Toscana
  • LOVE IT!!!!
Cieli di Toscana
Paolo Gianolio , Margherita Graczyk , Gary Miller , John Reid , Luis Jardim , Francesco Sartori , Mauro Malavasi , and Massimo Guantini
Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005OWJV
Release Date: 2001-10-16

Tracks:

  1. Melodramma
  2. Mille Lune Mille Onde
  3. E Ara 'A Settembre (Someone Like You)
  4. Chiara
  5. Mascagni
  6. Resta Qui
  7. Il Mistero Dell 'Amore
  8. Se La Gente Usasse Il Cuore
  9. Si Volto'
  10. L 'Abitudine
  11. L 'Incontro
  12. E Mi Manchi Tu
  13. Il Diavolo E L 'Angelo
  14. L 'Ultimo Re

Amazon.com

Not content with the simplistic "crossover" formula, superstar tenor Andrea Bocelli has been pursuing alternative paths since he emerged as a vocal phenomenon in the mid-1990s: operatic classics and contemporary popular song. The singer's last few albums have showcased his love for the former (including homages to his beloved Verdi: the Requiem and Verdi aria collection). But Cieli di Toscana ("Tuscan Skies") marks a triumphant return to the pop idiom last explored on Sogno, offering a highly varied series of the kind of beautifully crafted contemporary melodies that initially won Bocelli acclaim.

The familiar cast of songwriter-collaborators (including Francesco Sartori, responsible for the smash success "Time to Say Goodbye") mixes with new blood; Bocelli himself unveils his songwriting talents on "Il Diavolo e l'Angelo." It's a highly produced affair, but behind all the gloss, Bocelli sings with a newfound, relaxed, even mellow quality. There are intimately touching moments--"L'Incontro," a tribute to his first son featuring Bocelli's own poetry as read by U2's Bono--as well as soaring flights of lyricism (the duet "L'Abitudine" with Italian singer Helena). And on "Mascagni," with its quotes from that composer's operas, Bocelli makes another nod to his classical affinities. But whatever the style, Bocelli is a singer who knows how to go straight to his listeners' hearts. --Sarah Chin

Album Description

Exclusive UK version of Bocelli's third pop release includes the exclusive bonus track 'Tornera La Neve' and CD-ROM. The album also features 'L'Incontro' a duet with Gerard Depardieu. David Foster co-composes some of the tracks on this album as well. 2001.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars See Other Andrea Bocelli Review.......2007-07-06

Just what it says. See my other Andrea Bocelli reviews to get the idea I really like this guy.

5 out of 5 stars Emotional therapy!.......2007-05-14

"He is all heart; there's no pretense. You can feel it." No kidding. These were my mom's last comments about Bocelli two months before she left earthly existence.

This album helped me process a lot of emotional residue affiliated with the strain of difficult dynamics between my mom and myself.

Don't get me wrong. The music isn't sad; it's pure heart and emotion, so it may evoke emotions. The last cut, "L'Ultimo Re" is gorgeous with the way his voice soars!

E.A. Davis, author: Waiting for Wings: Accompanying a Parent to the Edge of Life

5 out of 5 stars Great music!.......2006-12-18

I bought the album before listening to any of the songs, because i'm a Bocelli fan. I was not disappointed. Wonderful melodies, beautiful voice.My personal favourites are Melodramma, Chiara and Resta Qui, but this is a great cd overall.

5 out of 5 stars Cieli di Toscana.......2006-08-25

There is no other voice quite like Andrea's voice. I keep listening to this CD over and over as some of the songs just touch my heart, both with his voice and the written arrangements. One of my very favorites from Andrea. He has the same qualities to his voice with popular songs as he does with opera. When following the English translations in the CD case, the message of each song becomes very clear through the inflections and tonal quality of his voice.

5 out of 5 stars LOVE IT!!!!.......2006-08-25

What more can I say once agian a total great cd, that will sure to become my favorite and my kids love it too!!! Ages 5, 8, and 15. WOW>>>>> Pleases all ages,LOVE IT LOVE LOVE IT
Stay a While
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Keep your eye on this guy!
  • A Must Have CD!!!!!
  • This Should Be Your Summer Cruise CD
  • Smoothjazz.com Review
Stay a While
Jay Soto
Manufacturer: Nu Groove Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
Smooth JazzSmooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000OCZ9Z0
Release Date: 2007-05-29

Tracks:

  1. Stay A While
  2. Just Like That
  3. Make It Happen
  4. Love Has Found A Way
  5. Slammin'
  6. Grooveland
  7. Midnight Drive
  8. Daydreamin'
  9. Holding On
  10. Send One Your Love
  11. City Slicker
  12. Jaywalking

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Keep your eye on this guy!.......2007-07-12

First the bad news: I wonder if Jay still needs to work on forging his own "signature" sound. He sounds like Chuck Loeb on one track, Jeff Golub on another, Norman Brown on the next, Chieli Minucci after that, and Zachary Breaux on yet another.

The Good News: If you put together an album with one or two killer new tracks from each of those guys, this is what it might sound like. I know it's hard to believe, but Stay a While is *that* good.

Stay a While (a title which is just bad grammar and not clever) is filled to the brim with that golden, dripping smooth jazz guitar that is so sweet, you swear it gives you a high. There isn't a single track on here you'll want to skip. And when, from practically out of nowhere, Jeffrey Osborne shows up on track 8, it's a welcome surprise.

After an outing like this, Jay will almost certainly join the pantheon of Smooth Jazz Guitar greats. And once he does settle on a signature tone (likely the next time around) that he can own, watch out!

5 out of 5 stars A Must Have CD!!!!!.......2007-07-03

This CD ranks as one of my all time favorites. Jay is definitely one of the best guitarist on the airwaves today. Each track on this CD stands out as a great track to me. We all love to put a CD in, and just let it go. This is one of those CDs. The productions are simply fabulous!!! This is a must have CD!!!

Dwight Sirls
Recording Artist

5 out of 5 stars This Should Be Your Summer Cruise CD.......2007-06-11

This is the CD that you'll want to pop into your car for that summer trip. Hopefully, it will turn that frown after you fill up your gas tank into a grin. It is an extremely uplifting and energetic album. You can tell that despite wearing the mantle of both musician and writer, that Mr. Soto is just having fun on this CD cutting loose. I think that allowing jazz icons like Jeff Lorber and Paul Brown and company to do the producing really allowed him to concentrate on the other fun stuff ... like playing. The album is great from start to finish. In addition, the mastering and sound quality are excellent. In this age of numerous great contemporary jazz guitarists, I think Mr. Soto stands out because being also an accomplished pianist, his tunes don't sound like a lot of the other guitarists. In any event, some of the tracks that stand out on this CD are "Stay A While," (the ultimate cruising song), "Love Has Found A Way," (a beautifully written vocal tune that Jeffery Osborne just takes the ball and runs with), "Slammin'," (an extremely fun and funky tune, which looks as though will be the hit single off of the CD), and "Daydreamin,'" which takes me back to my youth in the 1970s, of listening to those classic CTI recordings. Also, being a lover of the saxophone, I have to send out my props to Michael Lington who contributes some beautiful playing on this record, just like he did on Mr. Soto's first CD, "A Long Time Coming." There's definitely something for everyone on this CD, and definitely no sophomore jinx for this jazz artist with this fun and funky release. Go out and pick it up today and start cruising down the highway!

5 out of 5 stars Smoothjazz.com Review.......2007-05-30

This is unquestionably the big breakout album for Phoenix-based guitarist Jay Soto. This guy's got the goods... the jazz chops, the looks, the poise, the panache. Add to those elements the all-star support team (Jeff Lorber, Paul Brown, Michael Lington, Euge Groove, and Jeffrey Osborne) and you've got a killer sophomore release that's already showing its stuff as it moves quickly up the Smooth Jazz charts. If you like Jeff Golub, Paul Brown and Chris Standring then you're gonna love Jay Soto. His playing is superb, and STAY AWHILE has that magical quality about it that marks it as a hit effort. The songs... every one of them... are solid, led by the first radio single, "Slammin'," which is rocketing up the charts. Ten of the tunes are either written or co-written by Jay... there's one cover, Stevie Wonder's "Send One Your Love," which sparkles with Paul Brown's production and Michael Lington's alto sax work. Then there's a Paul Brown original, "Jaywalking," that cranks out some energetic funk with the help of Euge Groove; and we can't forget Jeffrey Osborne's classy, smooth vocal on "Love Has Found a Way." So, let's review: Great songs, world-class production, as you would expect from people like Lorber, Brown, and Darren Rahn (Wayman Tisdale, Jonathan Butler), and a magical vibe. The result: An album that stacks up beautifully against all guitar albums on today's Smooth Jazz charts. Jay Soto's STAY AWHILE is a no-brainer for my "highly recommended" list! ~SANDY SHORE
Joshua Bell - Gershwin Fantasy
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Bell & Gershwin
  • Enchanting
  • Joshua Bell's playing is exquisite
  • S'Wonderful
  • My Starter Bell CD
Joshua Bell - Gershwin Fantasy
Joshua Bell , George Gershwin , and John [composer] Williams
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000009OP5
Release Date: 1998-07-28

Tracks:

  1. Fantasy For Violin And Orchestra On Porgy And Bess
  2. Three Preludes: I. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso
  3. Three Preludes: II. Andante
  4. Three Preludes: III. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso
  5. Songs For Violin And Orchestra: I Got Rhythm
  6. Songs For Violin And Orchestra: Embraceable You
  7. Songs For Violin And Orchestra: Nice Work If You Can Get It
  8. Songs For Violin And Orchestra: Liza
  9. Songs For Violin And Orchestra: But Not For Me
  10. Songs For Violin And Orchestra: Sweet And Low-Down
  11. Songs For Violin And Orchestra: Love Is Here To Stay

Amazon.com essential recording

On Gershwin Fantasy, Joshua Bell's Stradivari embraces the lyrical spirit of Gershwin's Porgy and Bess with more success than most vocalists. Accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra, Bell's violin literally sings through "It Ain't Necessarily So," "Summertime," "I Got Rhythm," and "Love Is Here to Stay," while John Williams (Saving Private Ryan, Schindler's List) serves double duty as conductor and pianist on several tracks. Three Preludes employs the violin and piano transcription by Jascha Heifetz, a longtime Gershwin friend, and features Bell at his jazziest. Even Gershwin himself--well, the recording of a 1926 piano roll of the composer--joins the virtuoso on the swinging "Sweet and Low-Down." --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Bell & Gershwin.......2007-05-20

Two of my faves, George Gershwin and Joshual Bell -

Can't beat that!

Also, "Porgy" is a fave opera... so three out of three isn't bad!

5 out of 5 stars Enchanting.......2007-03-24

A very talented (to say the least) young musician playing the beautiful music of a very talented composer. I listen over and over again and especially like his rendition of "Embraceable You" and "But Not For Me" . . I'm a romantic!

5 out of 5 stars Joshua Bell's playing is exquisite.......2005-07-08

Joshua Bell's exquisite playing turns these arrangements into Gold. In the hands of Perlman or Shaham these arrangements would be pure shmaltz, but Bell's playing is of the highest caliber.

5 out of 5 stars S'Wonderful.......2004-10-20

Love it! I had heard of Josh Bell but never had purchased any of his music. I am a full fan now. This cd is wonderful. I am a Gershwin fan and have been for years. Bell breathes new life into the old classics and the result is breathtaking. His touch with the violin is beyound discription. He even plays with George in one cut, Sweet and Low Down. That alone is worth the price of the cd. Buy this cd and expect to be enchanted. It has been in my changer for weeks now, I can't get enough.

5 out of 5 stars My Starter Bell CD.......2003-11-05

This CD was my introduction to Joshua Bell after hearing a track on our local Washington, DC, classical radio station. It was hard not to be struck not only by the warmth of Mr. Bell's playing but also by his phrasing. He is almost never flashy, but his nuances made me find new musical possibilities which I hope -- but somehow doubt -- Gershwin intended. This is Gershwin as you have never heard him before, and it desires a place in anyone's classical or jazz collection.
Porgy & Bess
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Absolutely peerless
  • once-in-a-lifetime greatness
  • We love this album
  • Simply great
  • Porgy and Bess
Porgy & Bess
Ella Fitzgerald , and Louis Armstrong
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Porgy and Bess
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  5. Ella & Louis Again (Dig)

ASIN: B0000046Z5
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

  1. Overture
  2. Summertime
  3. I Wants To Stay Here
  4. My Man's Gone Now
  5. I Got Plenty O'Nuttin'
  6. Buzzard Song
  7. Bess, You Is My Woman Now
  8. It Ain't Necessarily So
  9. What You Want Wild Bess?
  10. A Woman Is A Sometime Thing
  11. Oh, Doctor Jesus
  12. Medley: Here Come De Honey Man/Crab Man/Oh, Deh's So Fresh And Fine (Strawberry Woman)
  13. There's A Boat Dat's Leavin' Soon For New York
  14. Bess, Oh Where's My Bess
  15. Oh Lawd, I'm On My Way

Amazon.com

Getting the two most personable voices in jazz to sing an hour's worth of George Gershwin's opera Porgy & Bess (Ella doing all the female parts, Satchmo all the male) was a good idea, but not quite as great as it sounded. Armstrong savors the down-and-dirty Charlestonisms that inspired the cadences of the music and lyrics, and they fit his happy rasp like an old shoe; Fitzgerald, conversely, sounds almost prissy every time she has to sing the word "ain't," though her melodic genius gets Gershwin's bold, supple tunes over. The arrangements are full-throttle Broadway, with a few leaps into Dixieland (including some fine Armstrong trumpet solos), but the disc works best when the vocalists break character and let their jazz side out. --Douglas Wolk

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely peerless.......2006-11-17

"Porgy and Bess" has just opened (with some controversy) in London's West End, though as a musical and not as an opera as it was originally conceived. Reviews have been promising and I aim to go down and see it soon. I decided to listen to this CD to put myself in the mood. I hadn't listened to it for years and I'd completely forgotten how good it actually is. Ella's voice blends with Louis' perfectly and Russell Garcia's orchestration gives them a dreamy landscape to perform against. I have one or two other CDs by Louis and Ella but this one is by far my favourite. The CD opens with "Overture" and its orchestral performance of classics like "Summertime", "I Wants To Stay Here", "I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'" and "It Ain't Neccessarily So" set the tone nicely, leaving one ever so keen for the vocal versions. Louis Armstong has a very rough tone to his voice but the emotion he packs with it is moving, most especially on the mournful "Bess, Oh Where's My Bess?" And we get all this and Louis' wonderful trumpet playing too?

Gershwin and Gershwin must be among the top composers of the last century and this opera showcases their talents more than anything I've heard. Ella and Louis are peerless as a vocal duo and though I doubt the West End performance will capture the magic in the same way they did, I still remain very keen to go see it. Is it opera or is it a jazz performance? I don't really know. I just know that I love it. And strongly recommend it.

5 out of 5 stars once-in-a-lifetime greatness.......2006-10-06

Two thousand five hundred musicians have recorded "Summertime" --- it's a classic. (I bet most Americans can name Janis Joplin and no other singer.) As for "Porgy and Bess," the folk opera from which "Summertime" springs, it's such a classic that it's hard to believe anyone ever had a harsh word to say about it.

But after its premiere in 1935, no less than Duke Ellington said, "It has grand music and a swell play, but the two didn't go together. It does not use the Negro musical idiom --- the times are here to debunk Gershwin's lampblack Negroisms."

A quarter of a century later, the producers of the film version had trouble assembling a cast. Harry Belafonte rejected their offer to play Porgy. Sidney Poitier took the part --- and wished he hadn't. Poitier later wrote that the movie insulted black people; when he chose clips of his best performances for his tribute at the American Film Institute, he picked nothing from "Porgy and Bess."

And in 1985, when Grace Bumbry was a sensation as Bess in a Metropolitan Opera production, she slammed the opera: "I thought it beneath me, I felt I had worked far too hard, that we had come far too far to have to retrogress to 1935."

All that may be. All I know is that I have, in a long life, rarely been confronted with more genius than in the Fitzgerald/Armstrong recording of "Porgy & Bess." Set aside the achievement of George and Ira Gershwin in transforming DuBose Heyward's novel into a folk opera. Let's just focus on Armstrong and Fitzgerald, who were at the peak of their popularity when this record was made in 1957.

"Summertime" --- the first song --- sets the tone. A baleful horn figure, then violins. And then Armstrong's trumpet: slow, steady, dignified. But wait --- here comes a slurred note. And a cool little improvisation. Just enough of each. Very tasty.

Fitzgerald sings a verse. She is cool and formal. A lady. Not to be taken lightly. Now it's Armstrong's turn. Tender, but let's not kid ourselves --- this is not singing as others define it. This is melodic speech: rough, gutteral. And thus he is ideally cast: His Porgy may have his charms, but he'll have to stretch to keep Bess.

And so it goes throughout the CD. Trumpet mastery --- Armstrong has dazzling control. His tone is bright, but never shrill; there's a warmth in his playing no one else could produce. And Fitzgerald is just a study in inevitability; to hear her is to wonder how anyone could sing these songs any other way.

"I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'." "Bess, You Is My Woman Now." "A Woman Is a Sometime Thing." "There's a Boat Dat's Leavin' Soon for New York." "Bess, Oh Where's My Bess?" "Oh Lawd, I'm on My Way."

All brilliantly conceived, orchestrated and recorded.

The greatest trumpet player in this history of jazz.

The father of scat singing.

The queen of the jazz vocal.

There are no-brainers, and then there is this Ella Fitzgerald-Louis Armstrong collaboration --- music that imprints on your soul.

5 out of 5 stars We love this album.......2006-08-22

We hope they will someday bring this beautiful story back to the stage

5 out of 5 stars Simply great.......2006-03-04

The fusion between the great two voices and the orchestra is just brilliant. Very good brass and violins that accompany Fitzeralds and Armstrongs magic voices leaves you with your mouth open.

A must have for everyone!

5 out of 5 stars Porgy and Bess.......2005-10-14

Could not find this anyway locally. It is a great recording
Get Money, Stay True
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Peoples chump
  • Wall To Wall!
  • Excellant-Transaction:
  • Great Sophomore Album By " The Peoples Champ".
  • Paul, We've Been On This Train Ride Before.....
Get Money, Stay True
Paul Wall
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Gangsta & HardcoreGangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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  1. Buck The World
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ASIN: B000NDEXIO
Release Date: 2007-04-03

Tracks:

  1. Get Your Paper Up
  2. Everybody Know Me
  3. Break Em' Off
  4. I'm Throwed
  5. Call Me What U Want
  6. On The Grind
  7. Bangin Screw
  8. How Gangstas Roll
  9. That Fire
  10. Tonight
  11. Gimme That
  12. I'm Real, What Are You?
  13. I Ain't Hard To Find
  14. Slidin' On That Oil

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Peoples chump.......2007-06-26

Diz guy is super wack man... Idk why people like his music ? Its pure trash. Get money , stay true is a disgrace that shoulda neva been released. Dont waste your mone on this wackness.

4 out of 5 stars Wall To Wall!.......2007-06-26

When you think of respected white rappers, you immediately think of Eminem and Paul Wall. Although not as flamboyant a rapper as Slim Shady, Paul Wall has made a name for himself without huge airplay or ridiculously high promotional budgets. He's still reppin' for the Dirty South and for Swishahouse with his latest album Get Money, Stay True. The album pretty much crept out with little attention from the industry or the Hip-Hop community as a whole, leaving Paul Wall to resort to word of mouth publicity only. And based on the selections on this album, the conversations should be favorable. The lead-off single "I'm Throwed" features Jermaine Dupri behind the boards as well as the hook man and comes off average at best for Paul Wall. Snoop Dogg pops up for "Everybody Know Me" while Freeway rises from the proverbial grave with the standout album track "On The Grind." Lil Keke pairs up with Paul for the Dirty South anthem of 2007 with "Break Em Off." Swishahouse labelmate Yung Redd holds his own on songs like "Get Your Paper" and "Call Me What U Want." Other well-chosen guest appearances include the raunchy female rapper Trina on "That Fire", R&B crooner Jon B on "Tonight", and Juelz Santana with a supremely good verse for "I'm Real, What Are You." With only a few missteps like the closing tracks "I Ain't Hard To Find" and "Slidin' On That Oil" featuring Expensive Taste, Get Money, Stay True is a suitable follow-up for Paul Wall. Now we can only hope that he'll get some money from the sale of this album so he can stay true in the future and not have to conform to the pressures of the industry to make a buck.

5 out of 5 stars Excellant-Transaction:.......2007-05-13

Hey the CD was evething I expected and the service exceeds expectations!!,Thanx very much!!

4 out of 5 stars Great Sophomore Album By " The Peoples Champ"........2007-04-28

You know you've arrived when Jermaine Dupri is featured on your first single. Say what you will about local-boy-done-good, Paul Wall, but you can't deny his appeal and influence in the fickle rap industry. He's the man that is credited for grillin' the world up. For a while there was no where you could go where you wouldn't see an elaborately jeweled mouthpiece and hear its owner boast proudly, "I got my grill from Paul Wall!"

His hustle is well documented and respected. His music matches his grind. After his first major label release, "The Peoples' Champ" outsold his H-town contemporaries, (not to mention it was a far better album than "Who is Mike Jones") Paul went back into the studio, and he, along with the rest of his SwishaHouse camp including Lil Keke, whose upcoming album will more than likely place him atop the H-town rap scene) have been beatin blocks up with their mixtapes.

The streets have been salivating for some new "Pow Wow", and the white boy delivered a dope offering. "Get Money..." opens with the 15 rattling thump of "Get Ya Paper" ft Yung Redd. After he reinroduces you to the grind, he starts to show off. 7 of the album's 14 tracks have major features, including the Snoop Dogg-assisted, "Everybody Know Me", "That Fire" ft Trina, and " And "Bangin Screw" a tribute to DJ Screw which is the man who invented Chopped And Screwed. There're even a couple of tracks that Paul's new wife, Crys Wall (yeah, that's her name!) is singing on. She is an R&B artist signed to SwishaHouse Records as well.

Big things coming outta H-town in 2007. And seems like Paul Wall is leading the charge. Get Money, Stay True, I give it 4 Mics for this one.

2 out of 5 stars Paul, We've Been On This Train Ride Before............2007-04-24

Paul Wall is obviously noted from being one of many solo, Houston, Texas rappers that hit mainstream back in 2005, alongside Mike Jones, Slim Thug, and Chamillionaire. Somehow he slid through the charts with his hit single "Sittin' Sidewayz", or the working for-the-ladies track "Girl", which very slickly sampled "Oh Girl" by R&B group The Chi-Lites. And both of those single helped him achieve a #1 album that sold well over 800,000 copies to date. Though, much like the aforementioned acts, Paul Wall had an issue bringing out solid, full-length albums when The People's Champ received mixed reviews from critics and Amazon reviewers, mostly hating on the boring, hood-cliché lyrics. And with Get Money, Stay True, it's the same story. Both uneven production and p!ss-poor lyrics aside, Paul Wall ain't a terrible rapper when it comes to his flow. He has a laid-back, half-singing and half-rapping flow that makes whatever he does at least slightly enjoyable, if nothing more. But taking the entire album in was the pain.

The beats on Get Money, Stay True are provided by himself, Mr. Lee (R. Kelly), Russel "Addict" Howard, Drumma Boy, KLC (C-Murder, Ludacris, Mystikal, Snoop Dogg), and Travis Barker. (What is HE doing here?) Production highlights are the Ludacris-sounding "Break `Em Off", Jermaine Dupri's "I'm Throwed", and the summery, old school feel of "On the Grind". But otherwise, most of the beats are fairly average, and the album suffers from uneven production, so even if a true-hearted fan were to purchase Get Money, Stay True, they'd probably be dissappointed too. There's a few beats that sound a bit like they were used twice, for example, "How Gangstas Roll" is alright, but sounds too much like "Girl" from The People's Champ. And although "Get Your Paper Up" and "Everybody Know Me" are decent, they sound exactly the same. There are also failing seducing tracks, like "Tonight" and "That Fire". Terrible production comes from "Call Me What You Want", which is just plain odd, and "I'm Real, What Are You?" and "I Ain't Hard to Find" are corny and come off rather unoffensive; "Slidin' On That Oil" being the wackest beat ever made.

But, the easy to find problem with Paul Wall's Get Money, Stay True are the almost intolerable lyrics he throws out on us. Any true Southern-rap fan can truly enjoy raps about being on "tha grind", but sometimes Paul Wall gets annoying with his odd comparisions and repetitiveness at times. And it seems he has little talent behind his money-cash-h*es talk, because he fails to talk about anything else. Ludacris and recently Rich Boy also cover similar topics, but they have actually show they have talent with some heartfelt tracks. If money, cars, ho*s, hustling, and drugs are the only and ONLY topics you cover, that is when you become untalented. "Bangin' Screw" and the terrible "How Gangstas Roll" are all about cars; both "Gimme That" and "Get Your Paper Up" are about making money; "Break `Em Off", "I Ain't Hard to Find", "I'm Real, What Are You?", and "On the Grind" all use boring hood themes like getting high or being gangsta; and both "Tonight" and "That Fire" are failing for-the-ladies songs, the latter being a lame story about a one night stand. As a matter of fact, it's difficult to find even one song that isn't about cars, getting high, girls, or full of annoying hood-cliches that have been tired out by 50 Cent already. To top it off, the album has some of the most laughable similes and metaphors you will ever hear. Just to show the worst, "Break `Em Off" has "I'm hotter than warm piss, berry grape Sunkist", "I'm Throwed" has "I'm fresher than a fruit bowl/Leaning like a gas gage", and other head-scratching comparisons show up throughout most, if not all of the album. The guest stars are okay, but most of them don't bring too much extra heat to this iceberg. A few hood-bars from Snoop Dogg are in "Everybody Know Me", but the rest of the guest stars don't help or hurt the album, like Trina's unneeded lines in the failed ladies-anthem "That Fire", Juelz Santana's monotonous feel in "I'm Real, What Are You?", and like most Southern rap albums, there's a ton of rappers you probably have never heard of. (E Class, Freeway, Expensive Taste, Drumma Boy, etc.) Also, Paul Wall's wife Crys Wall adds unnecessary damage to a couple of tracks on the album. There's really no business for your wife/husband or girlfriend/boyfriend to be on your album if they aren't an established artist, because most of the time, it never works. (Please see Dre on Christina Milian - So Amazin')

Get Money, Stay True shows Paul Wall can still bring some heat with his flow and occasionally decent production, but the album is overall bland, very uneven, and filled with sometimes laughable lyrics like a train wreck. Paul Wall has some hit singles on the album, as "I'm Throwed" and "On the Grind" surely sound like hits, but much like The People's Champ, unless you think you can tolerate an entire Paul Wall album, you'd best stay away. 2 stars.
Stay
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • 51 year old fan
  • Everywhere I go I know Your not far away...you're right here!
  • 5 Star Debut Album
  • Floored
  • BEST...CD...EVER
Stay
Jeremy Camp
Manufacturer: Bec Recordings / Emd
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Christian AlternativeChristian Alternative | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Christian Contemporary MusicChristian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
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  1. Carried Me: The Worship Project
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ASIN: B00006JJ3Z
Release Date: 2002-09-24

Tracks:

  1. Understand
  2. Right Here
  3. Walk By Faith
  4. Stay
  5. All The Time
  6. I Still Believe
  7. One Day At A Time
  8. Breaking My Fall
  9. Nothing
  10. I Know You're Calling
  11. Take My Life
  12. In Your Presence

Amazon.com

Jeremy Camp makes no bones about his modern-rock influences. Stay displays strong, unapologetic musical tips of the hat to the likes of Creed and Dave Matthews as Camp wraps his faith-inspired message in a common sounding yet pleasing brand of gritty, blue-collar rock. While power rockers such as "Take My Life" flex their muscles, it's the driving urgency and catchy chorus of "Understand" and the smooth balladry of the string-laden "I Still Believe" that are most appealing. Like fellow Indiana native John Mellencamp, Camp deals head on with some tough issues, as evidenced by "Walk By Faith," a moving testament to Camp's struggle with accepting the death of his young wife, and "I Know Your Calling," a pledge from a man struggling to hold on to faith through tough times. --Michael Lyttle

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars 51 year old fan .......2007-01-07

Rarely have I heard a young singer who seem so geniune. I wasn't aware until recently that he had lost his wife at such a young age. What a tragic lost. But he has a sincere voice, and nobody sings a ballad quite as good as he does. The orchestration on "I Still Believe" compliments his voice so well that you wish in the future he'd make an entire CD of similar type songs. Every song is not a masterpiece, but don't let that stop you from listening.

5 out of 5 stars Everywhere I go I know Your not far away...you're right here!.......2006-06-28

This CD was my first introduction to Jeremy Camp a few years ago and all I can say is one word, "Wow!" I had no idea what to expect going in. I had borrowed the album from my church music library and kind of thought that it would sound generic, just a singer/songwriter with okay lyrics and soft vocals. Needless to say, I couldn't be more wrong! The most powerful instrument on this album is Jeremy's vocals. He has such feeling in the voice and the lyrics fit perfecly to those emotions. Few can match that booming voice (Bart Millard from MercyMe comes close sometimes). My favorite tracks include (but are not limited to): Understand, Right Here, Walk By Faith, Stay, I Still Believe, One Day At A Time, Breaking My Fall, and Take My Life. As you can see, that is most of the songs on the album. What is also cool with Jeremy Camp (especially on this album) is that his music fits into different genres. Some songs are slowed down ballads, some are soft rock, and then some are heavy rock. But throughout those different genres, there is one constant. He is praising God while admitting how he falls short. That is his overall theme, that we all need God to pick us up when we fall down. Now that is a message we can all relate to!

5 out of 5 stars 5 Star Debut Album.......2006-03-20

This is by far the one of the best mucisians out there! Jeremy Camp is a fine musician with great talent. his musical ministry is an inspiration to me and my family. this album Stay is a great album to have in your Jeremy Camp collection! If you have Restored but dont have Stay i definatly recomend purchacing this album as well! 5 star album i definatly recomend this album to anyone! Jeremy Camp is a staple in the christian music industry. Probably the best under the BEC record label.

thanks
PFC Jonathan Mallard

5 out of 5 stars Floored.......2006-02-16

This album blew me away. I have all of Mr. camps albums and let me say that each one is fantastic. This album will more than likely always be my favroite for one reason, Take My Life. This song is unbelievable. If only Jeremy would do more songs like Take My Life I would quit school and follow his tours across the country. I'm not putting down the rest of the songs... which are all fantastic, but Take My Life has been in my head since I heard it. Understand, Stay and of course Walk By Faith are other highlights from this album.

To anyone who says that christian music is joke has either never listened to Jeremy Camp or they just are lieing because no matter how you cut it Jeremy Camp is a fantastic singer and song writer.

5 out of 5 stars BEST...CD...EVER.......2006-01-20

This is my FAVORITE CD. I got it for Christmas and have been listening to it non-stop in my car and at work since then. Because there is such a range of styles, lyrics, and instrumentals, I never get bored of listening to it. Some of the ballads are so passionate and powerful that they bring me to tears. I praise God every time I listen to this CD because it has inspired me and brought me closer to Him. My favorite song on the album is #3 - Walk by Faith - because the words and melodies make me feel a strong appreciation for God and all that He has done for me. I also really like song #11 - Take My Life - because it reminds me of alternative rock bands that I love (like Linkin Park). This CD is amazing and I am buying it for all my friends and family!
Stay Human
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Mostly great
  • So good!
  • "Stay Human"--One of my top 10
  • Music with heart
  • Franti's Great American Opera
Stay Human
Michael Franti & Spearhead , and Michael Franti
Manufacturer: Six Degrees
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B00005BGUT
Release Date: 2001-05-15

Tracks:

  1. Oh My God
  2. radio segment
  3. Stay Human (all the freaky people)
  4. radio segment
  5. Rock The Nation
  6. Sometimes
  7. radio segment
  8. Do Ya Love
  9. radio segment
  10. Soulshine
  11. Every Single Soul
  12. radio segment
  13. Love'll Set Me Free
  14. Thank You
  15. radio segment
  16. We Don't Mind
  17. radio segment
  18. Speaking Of Tongues
  19. radio segment
  20. Listener Supported
  21. radio segment
  22. Skin On The Drum

Amazon.com

There aren't many hip-hop artists out there today who give a damn about putting positive messages in their music, but Michael Franti is one of them. Ever since his days with seminal group Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, Franti has infused his sounds with insightful and thought-provoking lyricism, and this latest Spearhead joint is no exception. Stay Human tackles, among other things, the subject of capital punishment. Through a make-believe community radio station, Franti tells the tale of Sister Fatima, a healer and activist who is being put to death for a crime that her community believes she didn't commit. The "live" broadcasts act as elaborate skits between Franti's insouciant, soul-rap hybrids and help to expose the arrogant nature of America's judicial system and the brutal finality of the death sentence. Musically, Franti has created a richer, more string-laden backdrop for his tracks, creating some of his best idiosyncratic, feel-good vibes to date. But while the funkadelic edge of "Rock the Nation" and laid-back ballad style of "Do Ya Love" are worthy in their own right, Franti's real genius lies in his ability to weave opinions into compelling narratives so that we don't feel we're being battered over the head with someone else's ideas. Emotive, soulful, and opinionated, Spearhead are almost single-handedly keeping alive a tradition epitomized by Curtis Mayfield, Marvin Gaye, and Bill Withers. Don't sleep. --Paul Sullivan

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Mostly great.......2006-05-25

The music on this album is amazing, and the message is right-on. In fact this is probably Franti's best ever album when judged from the viewpoint of music, lyrics, and message.

Unfortunately I found the radio broadcast segments to be ill-conceived and intrusive, but they are easily skipped.

The "music fan" who praised Stay Human but only gave it 1 star because of objections to who Franti chooses to give political support to needs to learn more about the Mumia Abu-Jamal case, which is nowhere near as cut & dried as their post suggests. The trial transcripts don't tell the whole story - the whole point is that this was considered an unfair and biased trial. Dig a little deeper and you'll find plenty to question.

5 out of 5 stars So good!.......2005-08-06

Michael Franti and Spearhead has yet to let me down. This album is yet another that not only is a showcase for their amazing musical talent, but it also tells a strong story that spurs the mind to think about the world in which we live. As a long time advocate for abolishing the death penalty, this record tells a tale that I will never forget in my arguments to abolish the death penalty. Yet another record of targeting a specific population, and ignoring white collar crime (which in my opinion effects the population much more than anything other crime).

5 out of 5 stars "Stay Human"--One of my top 10.......2005-05-07

This album has to be the best that Michael Franti & Spearhead has put out so far....

The music: the band is very musical and pulls in lots of different influences that combine together in a completely original way: hip-hop, jazz, african, rock, spoken word, etc. Every time I listen I hear something new.

The lyrics: As I was an English major, lyrics are very important to me. Franti writes great lyrics-- he is an intellectual poet as far as I am concerned, and you can hear his skill in lyricism come through on tracks like "Speaking of Tongues" and "Skin on the Drum."

Political Message: Franti's political message is to spread tolerance and love. Some of the tracks are explicitly political, such as "Oh My God," while others are just a wonderful celebration of life. It's a good balance.

The only thing that gets a little annoying after you listen to the album several times is the radio show that shows up between most of the tracks. It's a great political message, but sometimes you just want to listen to music and not get preached at. That shouldn't deter you from buying this great album, though.

Great CD!!!

4 out of 5 stars Music with heart.......2005-04-25

Although I loved the Disposable Heroes and I think that Home is a fantastic album I stayed away from this album for a long time. I had heard that Michael Franti had lost it - that he had crossed the line from pointed political and social commentary into buttock clenching political correctness and cliché.

Nothing could be further from the truth - this is a wonderful CD. Yes, there is a message but Franti manages to get his point across while making an excellent CD. Great songs in a variety of styles are interspersed with radio segments describing the lead up to and the aftermath of the execution of an innocent woman. There are no duff tracks or off-key moments.

Recommended.

5 out of 5 stars Franti's Great American Opera.......2004-10-20

Stay Human is about as operatic a work as we've heard from any 21st century contemporary artist. Franti lets loose and through the guise of pretense of a dramatic play occuring at a radio station we are introduced to a group of characters including the two radio talk show hosts, Sister Fatima, the "Governor" and a host of listeners - liberal, conservative and brain dead, calling to weigh in on the fate of faith healer Sister Fatima now on death row and facing imminent execution that same night.

Woven between scenes at the radio station Spearhead's songs are brought to life that emphasizes Franti's message in a manner which could only be hinted it without the dramatic structure surrounding it.

The first time I heard this album was late on a hot summer night, on the back deck of a friend's house. He didn't prepare me for what I was about to experience and at the end of "Skin on the drum" I was emotionally exhausted with chills down my back and the hair on the back of my neck standing on edge. I'm not ashamed to say I also cried. This is music presented in such a powerhouse of a theatrical production it should be staged or filmed. As it stands, its effectiveness is not diminished one iota by being "audio only."

While some may eschew the socio/politico commentary embedded into the work, no one who listens and experiences it in its entirety will go unmoved, or turn it off free from thought. For these very reasons "Stay Human" is one of the most important works and deserves a wide audience. A truly remarkable achievement from Franti and Spearhead.

Music:

  1. Still the Greatest Story Ever Told
  2. Sweet Lovin' Ol' Soul
  3. Thankful
  4. The Best of Sixpence None the Richer
  5. The Best of the Staple Singers
  6. The Christmas Sessions
  7. The First Decade, 1983-1993
  8. The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin [Live]
  9. There Will Be a Light [Enhanced]
  10. Two Lefts Don't Make a Right.. But Three Do [Enhanced]

Music

Music