Phoenix [Original recording remastered]

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
24-bit digitally remastered reissue of their Top Ten-charting album from 1972 includes one bonus track, 'Flight Of The Phoenix' (2002 Remix With Extended Ending). Capitol.

Phoenix, Music, Grand Funk Railroad, Album Rock, Arena Rock, Boogie Rock, Detroit Rock, Hard Rock, Pop, Rock, Rock/Pop

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Average customer rating:

The soundtrack made for Muzak.

Very impressed and pleased

No magic here--weak and disappointing

its okay

Needs the magic of John Williams to go with Harry's magic

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Manufacturer: Warner Bros/Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Harry Potter & the Prisoner of Azkaban

ASIN: B000OLGCHA
Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

Fireworks
Professor Umbridge
Another Story
Dementors in the Underpass
Dumbledore's Army
The Hall of Prophecies
Possession
The Room of Requirements
The Kiss
A Journey to Hogwarts
The Sirius Deception
Death of Sirius
Umbridge Spoils a Beautiful Morning
Darkness Takes Over
The Ministry of Magic
The Sacking of Trelawny
Flight of the Order of the Phoenix
Loved Ones and Leaving

Amazon.com

For its fifth cinematic installment, the Harry Potter franchise gets a new composer as England's Nicholas Hooper (a usual collaborator of new director David Yates) succeeds Patrick Doyle and John Williams. The screeching electric guitar that suddenly irrupts on the very first track, "Fireworks," lets the listener know that all is not quiet on the Hogwarts front. The kiddies are growing up, evil is spreading: which is worse?! But actually this modern sonic touch is deceiving: Hooper works within an old-school format and mostly sticks to tried-and-true effects. His score is best when it goes for tension and unease, particularly in its use of low, rumbling tones: A choir starts by humming in a menacing manner in "Dementors in the Underpass"; the sound at the beginning of "The Death of Sirius" feels as if it's being belched out from some deep, dark, scary place, creating an effective atmosphere of dread. Elsewhere, the beginning of "Possession" feels as if it belongs in a J-horror movie, and then the track becomes deceptively calm before the storm hits again. Keen listeners will recognize Williams' "Hedwig's Theme" in "Another Story," but mostly Hooper is his own man. Just like the overall series, which gets darker and darker as it goes along, this CD makes for a rather brooding listening experience--the pizzicato violins on "Umbridge Spoils a Beautiful Morning" provide one of the few jaunty touches. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Album Description

Featuring a colorful and inspiring score by Nicholas Hooper, the soundtrack to Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix takes the movie-goer to the next level of magical enchantment right along with Harry and his friends.

Customer Reviews:

The soundtrack made for Muzak........2007-07-17

I found it mildly amusing that my first thought, prior to reading other reviews here, was "John Williams has clearly left the building." This score was adequate as filler for a movie, but lacked any of the charm and creativity that was evident in the soundtracks from the first three films. In fact, elements from Mr. Williams' compositions have been used in this score as well. It is the only redeeming quality.

This soundtrack can really be summed up as filler and music that is fit to listen to in an elevator. Unlike Mr. Williams' scores, which have been played on classical music radio, this one will not.

In short: save your money. Buy the DVD when it is released.

Very impressed and pleased.......2007-07-17

Unlike so many others, I find this is an excellent score, more than serving its purpose in fitting seamlessly with the film itself. I have been listening to it since I bought it, more than a dozen times already and find it highly enjoyable. I cannot understand people not hearing any magic in it, though, yes, for the most part it is darker and more mature. So was the story. I am thrilled that Yates and Hooper will continue. At this point I feel there needs to be some continuity in the final films, which will tend to play out like one long story.

Another Story absolutely captures the feel I got when I read the opening of OotP. The element of the oppressive heat and the lonely, mournful piano theme presenting the isolation that Harry is experiencing is painfully gorgeous and wistful and sets the tone for the entire film to perfection. I'm tempted to say it is my favorite track, but the more I listen the more "favorite tracks" I am beginning to have.

Another fine track would be Possession. Hooper, in my opinion, absolutely made this scene what it was on top of the fine acting and direction. I could not for the life of me, when reading it, figure out how they could accomplish this scene without it being too stereotypical of some cheesy horror film. Possession provides just the right underlying momentum, presenting Harry's pain, fear, his grief, and a climbing ultimate release as he realizes what he does have and what is more important than pain or death. I've seen the film 3 times, and each time I become misty, which is pretty unusual for me in any film. Listening to the track, I realize how much of that scene is painted right into the sound.

I found elements of GoF's themes here that worked wonderfully. GoF was like a breath of fresh air to me after listening to JW's first two scores which were suitable for the children's stories the films portrayed, but little else and the PoA's score, which worked hard, had maybe two interesting tracks, but fell far short of the beauty of the film itself. Hooper continues to use a lush pallet and adds some surprising rhythmic elements I love. His work added an underlying urgency that subtly enhanced the tone of the film.

I will be sorely disappointed if they go back to John Williams to score the last film because he is SO busy that little of his music sounds fresh at all anymore. Kudos to Nicholas Hooper. There isn't a track on this score that I don't enjoy for its texture, mood and function.

No magic here--weak and disappointing.......2007-07-17

Following the sparkling, evocative efforts of Williams and Doyle, this is a generic, dull offering, and certainly brings no magic to the film. It lacks depth and emotional resonance, and actually would work better as background music for a TV movie. Sounds like the composer had little or no visceral connection to the film or to the story and its characters. It's sad to think they've given Hooper the next film to score as well; if neither of the previous composers is available, call in Howard Shore or even James Newton Howard before it's too late. Blah; save your money on this one.

its okay.......2007-07-17

I think Hooper is a step up from the dribble of GOF. Of course he is no John Williams (who should come back by the way) but I think he needs to be cut a break. I am not a collector of movie soundtracks though I do look them up from time to time. The only reason why I even looked up the Harry Potter soundtracks is because of Williams, and then when I heard Hooper's "Flight of the Order of the Phoenix" which I enjoyed immensely. He does his job as a composer which is to emphasize the scenes in the movie. "Umbridge Spoils a Beautiful Morning" is a good track considering it has that sugary sweetness quality with a paradoxical underlayer of uneasiness, discomfort, and something not so nice- just like the character of Dolores Umbridge herself. It is very fitting. As a soundtrack I think it works, despite the weird presence of a guitar in "Fireworks"....

Needs the magic of John Williams to go with Harry's magic.......2007-07-16

Obviously the producers have it figured that they can put in any music that touches on the John Williams theme from the first three movies and it will pass muster and save them money. How sad for us the listeners. This album, as the one before it, show that the way to keep the series with some consistency that also holds them together is to keep the same composer which is not happening any more. All the star wars movies; most of the james bond films; the rocky films; back to the future films; the first two batman films; rambo movies; first few die hard movies, all got this key thing and their sequels were terrifically enhanced. Williams did all three Indiana Jones movies and each was a better soundtrack than the one before; he did the first two Superman films and his score was used in the third too. The fourth Superman movie fell off the wagon and died in the box office. The fifth, Superman Returns, used some unknown composer for most of the score and it was lousy and forgettable.
This new Harry Potter film is great but the soundtrack is a waste almost entirely and won't hold up by itself the way Potters 1-3 all do/did. Save your money on this one and tell the producers by not buying it that the consumers are not so easily conned and maybe they will pay Williams to do the next movie.

Average customer rating:

Not a carbon copy
Walk the line CD
walk the line
Walk the Line
Great

Walk the Line
Joaquin Phoenix , Reese Witherspoon , and Original Soundtrack
Manufacturer: Wind-Up
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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At Folsom Prison
Walk the Line (Widescreen Edition)
The Essential Johnny Cash
At San Quentin
Taking The Long Way

ASIN: B000BM7YYW
Release Date: 2005-11-15

Tracks:

Get Rhythm -- Joaquin Phoenix
I Walk The Line -- Joaquin Phoenix
Wildwood Flower -- Reese Witherspoon
Lewis Boogie Blues -- Waylon Payne
Ring Of Fire -- Joaquin Phoenix
You're My Baby -- Johnathan Rice
Cry Cry Cry -- Joaquin Phoenix
Folsom Prison Blues-- Joaquin Phoenix
That's Allright Mama -- Tyler Hilton
Jukebox Blues -- Reese Witherspoon
It Aint Me Babe -- Joaquin Phoenix & Reese Witherspoon
Home of the Blues -- Joaquin Phoenix
Milkcow Blues Boogie -- Tyler Hilton
I'm A Long Way From Home -- Shooter Jennings
Cocaine Blues -- Joaquin Phoenix
Jackson -- Joaquin Phoenix & Reese Witherspoon

Amazon.com

This is not a review about Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon's hair. However--as any self-respecting fan knows--in country music, after proving you can pluck a guitar and carry a tune, the power of the right hairstyle is not to be underestimated. Johnny Cash, in fact, was famously vain about his locks--perhaps one of the few things he was vain about--and many a guitar store employee can attest to the fact that when the Man in Black came in to buy his special brand of guitar pick, his hair was dyed a jet black more often seen on a boy of 20 than a man of 60. In any case, Phoenix and Witherspoon's performances as Johnny and June Carter Cash succeed more in the style and hair department than in their musicality. Phoenix fares better than his co-star in reinventing the Cash mystique, and his sweet, almost earnest interpretation of "Get Rhythm" is as charming as it is honest. Unfortunately, the powerful song "Ring of Fire" is flat and wholly without the narrative pull it had when Cash sang it. And Witherspoon is simply not up to the warbling task she's faced with in singing as June Carter Cash. (To be fair, it's hard to know who would be, but the estimable Loretta Lynn or Tift Merritt would have had better luck). Carter Cash's honeyed gift with melody, and the largeness of her voice, honed over decades in live performance, is hard to replicate for even a seasoned singer, and predictably, Witherspoon falls short of the mark. It's certainly seductive to imagine that playing a figure as compelling as Johnny or June would allow an actor to channel the soul and some of the talent of the artist, but the closest this record comes is in "Cry, Cry, Cry," where Phoenix's gravelly voice offers the same sustained thrill that made Johnny Cash irresistible--to June and his fans. --Megan Halverson

Customer Reviews:

Not a carbon copy.......2007-07-08

Within the liner notes of the gem of a CD, the director of the movie "Walk the Line" was quoted as saying he wasn't looking for a Johnny Cash impersonator, but for somebody who could make the legend come alive.
I personally really like Joaquin Phoenix' smooth, sexy voice. My favorites are "Get Rhythm" and "Walk the Line."

I strongly reccommend this CD.

Walk the line CD.......2007-06-13

The music was wonderful. I think Reese Witherspoon needs to do more signing. I certainly would buy her CD

walk the line.......2007-06-09

Disappointed with this CD lacked body and character music sounded thin and repetative

Walk the Line.......2007-06-01

A wonderful movie. Joaquin Phoenix was ideal as the young Johnny Cash - 19 to 37 years, The producers said they didn't want an actor and actress to portray John and June precisely and this is what I saw. The singing and guitar playing was right on. Joaquin should have won an Oscar also!

Great.......2007-05-17

I bought the cd for my husband who is a huge fan of the movie. He absolutely loves the cd! He has practically worn it out listening to it.

Average customer rating:

Ravishing A Cappella Choral Singing of a Russian Liturgical Masterpiece

Grechaninov: Passion Week [SACD]

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000N39HC6
Release Date: 2007-04-24

Tracks:

Behold The Bridegroom
I See Thy Bridal Chamber
In Thy Kingdom
Gladsome Light
Let My Prayer Be Set Forth
Now The Powers Of Heaven
At Thy Mystical Supper
The Wise Thief
Thou Who Clothest Thyself
The Lord Is God...The Noble Joseph
Weep Not For Me, O Mother
As Many Of You...Arise, O God
Let All Mortal Flesh

Customer Reviews:

Ravishing A Cappella Choral Singing of a Russian Liturgical Masterpiece.......2007-05-25

For starters, this CD contains some of the finest a cappella singing I've ever heard. Its sumptuous choral tone must be heard to be believed. It is done by two professional choirs from seemingly unlikely places, the combined Kansas City Chorale and Phoenix Bach Choir. I have raved about their prior recordings both separately and in combination but this release possibly tops anything they've done, at least in terms of ineffably beautiful a cappella choral sound. The Grechaninov 'Passion Week' is a setting of thirteen pieces with texts in Church Slavonic meant to be sung individually over the period of Passion Week, the days leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. (And, frankly, I would suggest that listeners ration their listening to one or two sections of the work at a time, in order to experience the unique effect of each individual piece, although there is something to be said for listening to the whole thing -- 74-plus minutes -- to experience its almost hypnotizing cumulative effect.) The Russian Orthodox Church has a tradition of morning and evening services during Passion Week when the passion week's events are recalled almost in 'real time.' The music itself is generally slow, meditative, largely monophonic and almost trance-like. It must be incredibly difficult to sing. One can only imagine the kind of breath support required. One notices that the usual number of singers in these two choirs has been supplemented by several additional basses, no surprise considering the long legato lines required of that section. Their low C's and even B's resound like the tolling of great bells throughout the work. One could almost surmise, if one didn't know, that this was the singing of a Russian choir, so noted for their deep basses, except that the blending and rounding of the choral tone is so very much more subtle than is generally heard from Russian choruses. The work is entirely choral, but there are occasional soprano, tenor and baritone solos which consist mostly of chants sung against the main body of massed sound.

Aleksandr Tikhonovich Grechaninov (1864-1956) was a few years older than Sergey Rachmaninov and his sacred music is in many ways similar in style to that of the better-known composer. Grechaninov's 'Passion Week' was written in 1912, shortly before Rachmaninov wrote his well-known 'Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom' which has also been recorded by the Kansas City Chorale in a lauded release which unfortunately is not easily available these days but worth seeking out. After the Revolution Grechaninov emigrated from the Soviet Union and eventually wound up in the US where he became a citizen. He continued, even after leaving Russia, to write music for emigré congregations of the Russian church although he also began writing liturgical works for the Roman Catholic Church as well. His sacred music is what he is best known for, although he also wrote operas, songs and orchestral works.

There is no question that Charles Bruffy, the conductor of both the Phoenix Bach Choir and the Kansas City Chorale, is one of the most talented choirmasters currently working anywhere in the world. He may very well be the US analog to Eric Ericson of Sweden or Laurence Equilbey of France. Certainly his choruses' style is more European than English, and it is to the English Chandos label's credit that they have added these two Bruffy-directed choirs to their roster. One looks forward to any and all future releases from these marvelous groups.

This is a hybrid SACD disc which means it can be played on both a regular CD player or on SACD equipment. In either format the sound is rich, warm and true.

The previous release of the combined Phoenix Bach Choir and the Kansas City Chorale, featuring mainly the Mass for Double Choir by Frank Martin, is here: Eternal Rest - Phoenix Bach Choir, Kansas City Chorale

Scott Morrison

The Music of John Williams: 40 Years of Film Music

Average customer rating:

Very disappointing, considering what it could have been
Always a pleaser
JOHN WILLIAMS 40 Years of Film Music
Movie Music Magic & Memorabilia
John Williams: 40 Years of Outstanding Film Music

The Music of John Williams: 40 Years of Film Music

Manufacturer: Silva America
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000C6K09
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Tracks:

The Sugarland Express-Main Theme
Jaws-Main Theme
Close Encounters Of The Third Kind-Suite
Raiders Of The Lost Ark-March
Raiders Of The Lost Arc-The Map Room:Dawn
E.T. The Extra-Terrestrail-Adventures On Earth
Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom-Mine Car Chase
Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom-End Credits
Empire Of The Sun-Exsultate Justi
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Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade-End Credits
Always-Follow Me/Dorinda's Solo Flight
Hook-Main Themes
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Saving Private Ryan-Hymn To The Fallen
A.I. Artificial Intelligence-Where Dreams Are Made
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Catch Me If You Can

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Jane Eyre-Suite: The Jane Eyre Theme
Jane Eyre-Suite: To Thornfield
Jane Eyre-Suite: Restoration
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The Poseidon Adventure-Prelude
The Towering Inferno-Main Titles
Family Plot-End Titles
The Fury-Main Titles
Superman-Main Theme
Dracula-Main Titles & Storm
The River-Main Theme & Love Theme
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Born On The Fourth Of July-End Credits
Presumed Innocent-End Titles
JFK-Arlington/End Titles
Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone-Hedwig's Theme
Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets-Fawkes The Phoenix
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Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back-Hans Solo And The Princess
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back-The Imperial March
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Star Wars: The Phantom Menace-The Flag Parade
Star Wars: Attack Of The Clones-Across The Stars
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace-Duel Of The Fates

Customer Reviews:

Very disappointing, considering what it could have been.......2007-04-20

Take a look at the running times:

Disc 1: 60 minutes
Disc 2: 50 minutes
Disc 3: 61 minutes
Disc 4: 58 minutes

What gives Silva? There is *MUCH* more John Williams in the silva screen back catalogue by the Prague Philharmonic than what is in this set, and thats not including their entire discs devoted to Star Wars Films, Indiana Jones Trilogy etc. Why isn't Hook "When You're Alone" included on Disc 2? There's room. Why isn't 1941 on Disc 1? There's room. Why isn't Earthquake on Disc 3? There's room. Why isn't Far and Away on disc 4? There's room. Where's the other ten minutes of the Rare Breed suite on disc 3? Why isn't Midway on disc 1? Where are the Land of the Giants, Time Tunnel and Lots In Space tv themes? Etc. Etc. Etc.

C'mon Silva, most of these 4 disc mega boxes released in the past few years are packed to the brim, but not this one, and with new recordings made after this was released (the terminal, munich, geisha, war of the worlds, star wars ep 3, harry potter 3), it only makes sense for a "re-do" in the next couple of years.

Further, with Silva releasing the 100 Greatest Film Themes on six discs in a couple of months, it's only a matter of time before we see the ultimate six disc john williams set.

This isn't a BAD set to own, but it could have been much better and when compared to the Jerry Goldsmith and John Barry sets in this same series, this one is a major letdown.

Always a pleaser.......2007-03-31

I listen to music all day with patients in my dental chair. This one is a winner with everyone. Patients always comment on how they recognize a song. Who doesn't love John Williams? His music transcends time.

JOHN WILLIAMS 40 Years of Film Music.......2007-01-10

This 4 cd pack is an anthology of all John Williams works. From his earlier works "The Poseidon Adventure" and "Jaws" right through "Indiana Jones" and the most recent"Star Wars" prequel movies are included. Williams work in thriller and horror are also included. If you are into soundtracks and love movie music this is an essential buy. The quality of the music is excellent. With ten or more tracks on each cd it's well worth the money.

Movie Music Magic & Memorabilia.......2006-12-13

This four CD set expands on the previously released John Williams Greatest Hits. It's a grand collection of nearly four hours of famous music scores from over forty years. There are many songs never before available in any collection. The short liner notes tell a great tale of musical movie history and include all of his numerous award nominations and wins. Each song (oddly enough) mentions the actors and the director, so fond are John Williams's memories of his work with these people. All of the conductors are mentioned along with specific orchestras, choirs, arrangement and orchestration specialists and even the publishers (contractual, I am sure). The only things missing are his early television scores, such as those for "Lost In Space" (by Johnny Williams back then). But with four discs, one has nothing to complain about and everything to enjoy!

John Williams: 40 Years of Outstanding Film Music.......2006-11-28

I have been a huge fan of John Williams and I have known about his music for years. However, I never actually bought any of his music on CD. I was rather skeptical about purchasing this CD but when it arrived I knew I had made the right choice. The sound quality of the compilation is outstanding. The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra do a great job under the direction of Paul Bateman. The original London Symphony Orchestra CDs of John Williams' Star Wars Trilogy CDs are marginally better but this is still a great CD compilation. If you love ET, Star Wars, Indiana Jones and Harry Potter, you will love this compilation soundtrack. Buy it, listen to these CDs in the car and enjoy every minute of the collection!!!

Average customer rating:

3-1/2 stars -- Lyfe spreads his wings
One of the best albums I've heard.
Lyfe Jennings Bringing the Soul Back to R&B
Excuisite Talent.....incredible delivery!!!!!
Slammin Sophmore Disc

The Phoenix
Lyfe Jennings
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000GG4XDI
Release Date: 2006-08-15

Tracks:

Intro
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Slow Down
Interlude
Goodbye
Interlude
Let's Stay Together
Interlude
Biggie Nigga
Interlude
Ghetto Superman
Interlude
S.E.X.
Interlude
Down Here, Up There
Interlude
The River
Interlude
Still Here
Interlude
More Than A Girl
Interlude
Stingy
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Radio
Interlude
Keep Ya Head Up
I'll Always Love You

Amazon.com

In a lot of musical imaginations, Lyfe Jennings' The Phoenix will occupy a space a few slots up from the Hustle & Flow soundtrack. As he proved on the prelude to this disc--the swift-selling, hype-generating Lyfe 268-192--he's an urban poet with an unsparing eye. When he's not laying out his grit-laden artistic process in what seems like a dozen spoken-word interludes, he's singing it as he sees it. On "S-E-X," that vision includes a sensitive-minded, daddy-like plea for abstinence among teen-age girls punched up by the sexy-sounding Lala Brown, and on the thump-thump slo-mo thrill ride "Ghetto Superman" it includes a pitiful remembrance of things past ("We grew up in the gutter eatin' peanut butter sandwiches/With no jam"). Part Curtis Mayfield, part Donny Hathaway, part Kanye West, and part John Legend, Jennings is determined to offer a long, tall drink to the spiritually dehydrated--he's massively musical (check his gentle acoustic guitar on "Down Here, Up There" and the raw soul of "The River") and enormously ambitious: It's no accident that The Phoenix plays like scuffed-up, 21st-century epic poetry in places. Real-world R&B hasn't reached this far in a long time. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

3-1/2 stars -- Lyfe spreads his wings.......2007-05-16

After Lyfe Jennings served a ten-year prison stint for arson, his debut album Lyfe 268-192 took about a year to really get noticed by the public. Fortunately, people remembered his talents, as his latest album The Phoenix debuted at a pretty high spot on the charts, and since I loved his first album, I of course picked up THIS one.

Lyfe's first album had hardly any guest stars, but this time there ARE a few cameos here and there. Still, he's best when he's singing by himself, like on "I'll Always Love You", "Let's Stay Together" and "The River". And if you want to hear his vocals really soar again like on "Made Up My Mind" from his last album, try "Goodbye" on for size. Some people also might question why Lyfe decided to remake Tupac's "Keep Ya Head Up", but I think he did a pretty good job.

"More Than a Girl" is also good despite its suffering from a few too many similes. And that leads me to the missteps on the album. Lyfe is still a great singer, but one still has to question where he came up with the ideas for some of these songs. The political commentary "S.E.X." is pretty decent except for the average chorus, but at times the subject matter gets from corny ("Ghetto Superman", "Biggie N") to confusing ("Still Here") to just plain ridiculous ("Stingy"). Another thing is something that reviewer Travis Hunter pointed out. Just as was the case on 268-192, this album also features accompanying interludes with every song (except for "I'll Always Love You"), this time BEFORE the respective songs rather then after them. But whereas on the first album they were interesting explanations, here they just take up time; in fact, it got to the point that I almost knocked the rating down to three stars.

The Phoenix is still a good album, but for his next album, Lyfe should leave the guest stars and commentary behind so that we can enjoy a smoother listen.

Anthony Rupert

One of the best albums I've heard........2007-03-14

I bought The Phoenix in the Summer of 06 and never opened it. I kept hearing songs on the radio by Lyfe that I like so Friday night 3/9/07, I got the cd out of my car and played it. I have not turn this cd off since friday. It is now Tuesday 3/13, and I am listening to it as I type this. I will go out today and buy his first album because I loved The Phoenix so much. The lyrics and his voice are amazing. Some of my favorites are I'll always love you, Still Here, Good bye, River etc... I can go on and on. This is one of those cds that you can play on a road trip and never turn it off. For the first time in a long time I feel like I got my moneys worth.

Lyfe Jennings Bringing the Soul Back to R&B.......2007-03-09

This CD is great. Lyfe's songs are for the street lovers. A great journey through his experiences. I look forward to his next release

Excuisite Talent.....incredible delivery!!!!!.......2007-03-08

OK im not even gonna go on too long. Lyfe Jennings is in a league of his own..i was dumbfounded by such pain in a voice yet so musical....this artiste is worth buying and i urge everyone to join me in the fan club......any true music connoisoire will appreciate this guys artistry.

Buy talent not personalities....excellent!!!!!!!!

Slammin Sophmore Disc.......2007-02-15

On his sophmore disc, Lyfe Jennings gives us more street ghetto cineama stories like no other.

Average customer rating:

shockingly perfect pop
Phoenix Destroyed My Car Stereo
Oh Pheonix!
Remember when you liked the Strokes?
AMAZING!!! - THE ALBUM OF THE YEAR 2006...

It's Never Been Like That
Phoenix
Manufacturer: Astralwerks
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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United
Return to Cookie Mountain (with Bonus Tracks)
Broken Boy Soldiers
The Crane Wife

ASIN: B000FC2FVA
Release Date: 2006-05-23

Tracks:

Napoleon Says
Consolation Prizes
Rally
Long Distance Call
One Time Too Many
Lost and Found
Courtesy Laughs
North
Sometimes in the Fall
Second to None

Amazon.com

Warning: Even limited exposure to this French band's music is liable to turn the listener into a crazed zealot desperate to "just turn people on" to their music or to wander about aimlessly wondering aloud why they're not at least as well known as, say, Erlend Oye. The band's been relentlessly eclectic since they formed in the late '90s; they make hybrid music, an electronic-flavored rock that's impossible to describe without using up half a dozen hyphens in the process. It's their most straight-ahead, "rock"-sounding release, and if your first thought is that it wouldn't hurt if It's Never Been Like That had a little bit more of a cocaine disco unicorn vibe to it, give it another listen. This record is an effortless-sounding, mini-masterpiece that mixes art song elements with delightful retro-pop. And it's scary how simply and truly great it is--easily amongst the best albums of 2006. --Mike McGonigal

Customer Reviews:

shockingly perfect pop.......2007-04-15

I dont know how they exactly did it but this band crafted a nearly perfect gem of pop songs. There's some punk and 80's influences but the band makes music that certainly stands on its own. There's also a mature sense of irony in several of the songs that makes replays of the CD fun if you're older than 16. Very impressive singing in a "rock/pop" style. The studio mixing brings out the strengths of the band.

Phoenix Destroyed My Car Stereo.......2007-03-22

I bought this C.D. for my birthday. Tried to load it into my car stereo and it it ended up jamming the unit and then it died.

So while the C.D. was only $8.00 it will cost me hundreds to fix the car stereo. I blame the record manufacturers for putting in some type anti-copy protection which screwed up the unit.

Therefore this is a must to avoid if you care about your equipment.

Oh Pheonix!.......2007-02-10

These guys never get it wrong. The second I heard this I got the words "its never been like that, its never been like that" running through my head non-stop (especially since it IS in the refrain of track #4). Pheonix is a French band with weird words, a lovely voice, and some nifty tunes. Pheonix is easy listening, yet catchy as heck, pop, yet still rock. They hold a delicate balance between smooth and sexy. But I must admit, for most Phenox is a guilty pleasure, you enjoy it until you actually try to understand the lyrics then find out that you are not crazy and that the lyics dont actually make sense. But you still heavily enjoy the music anyway and sing along. You must buy this album, or any Pheonix album!

Remember when you liked the Strokes?.......2007-01-19

No one's making comparisons to the Strokes. They should. There are similarities in influences, phrasing, rhythm.

And if you've been disappointed in the Strokes recently, you'll be happy to know that Phoenix has no interest in emulating that downturn. They can't. They build better songs, they take more chances, they have a singer who can carry a tune. They have made an album here that holds up very well to repeated listening.

So, my point: "It's Never Been Like That" will go down well with fans of the Strokes.

If you're not a fan, you'll like this Phoenix that much more. It's great pop songs without the rumpled expensive suits. The attitude is in the right place: in the songs.

AMAZING!!! - THE ALBUM OF THE YEAR 2006..........2006-12-26

Well folks, this is a long overdue review of a record that needs its rightful recognition. Simply put, this should be the album of the year for 2006 (not "Return To Cookie Mountain" by TV On The Radio). This disc is packed full of the kind of rhythms and melodies that will keep you going back to it year after year. "It's Never Been Like That" is one of those rare albums that are great from beginning to end. I am a (still young) high school teacher and have played some of the songs for a few students and they've all reacted positively to what they heard. Questions like why don't they play Phoenix on the radio? and do they have other records? were being asked. As a teacher, I have summer months off from work and I travel to Italy for most of the summer. "It's Never Been Like That" quickly became the soundtrack of the summer for my wife and I. I highly recommend this album and feel confident that you won't be disappointed. As always, allow every album the opportunity to grow on you and I promise you that this album will be one that you keep going back to year after year.
Getting back to my comment about "Return To Cookie Mountain"... I am personally startled that this disc by TV On The Radio is as highly praised by critics and fans as it is. I commented that you should allow an album to grow on you in order to fully understand it and appreciate it, but after more than 10 times listening to "Return To Cookie Mountain", I an still wondering how it is possible that quality albums like "It's Never Been Like That" could get overshadowed by that album.

ENJOY PHOENIX!!!

Average customer rating:

excellent
"Phoenix" Rises to the Top!
Tried and True!
Fogelberg's Finest!!
Fogelberg's 2nd best

Phoenix
Dan Fogelberg
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Nether Lands
The Innocent Age
Souvenirs
Captured Angel
Home Free

ASIN: B0000025EN
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Tullamore Dew
Phoenix
Gypsy Wind
The Last To Know
Face The Fire
Wishing On The Moon
Heart Hotels
Longer
Beggar's Game
Along The Road

Customer Reviews:

excellent.......2007-03-08

trying to find the cd's are hard enough for us 70's kids so when i found it here at amazon it was great. I love dan fogleberg. thats all i have to say.

"Phoenix" Rises to the Top!.......2006-01-10

This album received a lot of airplay when it was released, out where I was living. I absolutely loved it: the diversity of songs, melodies, and words in "Phoenix, "Face The Fire," "Wishing On The Moon," and even those put down by others like "Longer," show a depth of songwriting and playing that adds up to Talent. This and another album I reviewed tonight are two of my favorites of all time, bringing back great memories of some not-so-great times, but then that's part of what music is all about, isn't it? Make some of your memories with one of the finest albums that you'll ever latch onto.

Tried and True!.......2005-07-10

This album is a collection of the best songs Dan Fogelberg has ever written. It has been one of my favorites since first released some 20+ years ago. I bought it on vinyl when it originally came out, cassette to listen to it in the car as a teen-ager, and finally CD, as it is a must have. Fans will recognize it as being his finest work, a masterpiece, and truly timeless. Being as old as it is, it is not at all dated.

Fogelberg's Finest!!.......2005-05-03

With all due respect to Dave "missing person" and his outstanding review, Phoenix is a bonafide 5 star classic, with Longer Than being the weakest song on the album, as sweet as it is. How anyone could not get goosebumps from the quality writing, performance and production of Beggar's Game, is beyond me. I suggest Phoenix has a place in any collection

Fogelberg's 2nd best.......2005-01-14

Wow, Dan's an odd duck...kind of all over the place musically. While all of his lyrics tend to be kind of dumb, the music he puts them to varies wildly! Cuts like "Longer" (big airplay!) and "Heart Hotel" are rather typically sappy radio-friendly fodder, but then... He hits you with great tunes like the title cut, and even more so "Face the Fire" (w/Joe Walsh on guitar!). The last tune rocks out to a major degree, and would make the album worth buying even if the rest of it sucked (it doesn't). I call this his 2nd best because I like "High Country Snows" much better, but then again, that one's more traditional country/bluegrass tunes, which I'm bit more partial to than I am rock.

Average customer rating:

The Phoenix
Marcus Johnson
Manufacturer: Three Keys Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Born 2 Groove

ASIN: B000RPCJC0
Release Date: 2007-07-17

Tracks:

Side Steppin
Potomac Ridge
Road to Los Suenos
Believe
Love - Marcus Johnson, Frank McComb
Table for 2
My Caddy
Urban Trust
You and I
Journey
Make It Happen

Average customer rating:

They can still do it.
Amazing because of their " HARMONIES"
outstanding because of Theo
Love it from beginning to end
A fitting hodgepodge of Temptations styles

Phoenix Rising
The Temptations
Manufacturer: Motown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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For Lovers Only
Ear-Resistible
Reflections
To Be Continued...
Awesome

ASIN: B000009QLT
Release Date: 1998-08-18

Tracks:

Hereafter (Interlude)
Stay
False Faces
How Could He Hurt You
I'm Calling You (Interlude)
This Is My Promise
My Love
Tempt Me
If I Give You My Heart
Take Me In Your Arms
That's What Friends Are For
Just Like I Told You
Stay (Remix)

Amazon.com

"The legend continues," writes the only remaining "real" Temptation Otis Williams in this CD's thank-you notes. There is little here besides his survival and the group name to connect this to the classic lineups' prodigious achievements, however. Phoenix Rising lived up to its title by becoming a hit in 1998, yet it sounds more like Babyface leftovers sung by Take 6 than anything deserving of carrying the once-mighty Tempts' handle. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

They can still do it........2005-09-30

This is a refreshing new sound and direction for the Temptations. But as always, it's good as usual. Theo Peoples is great in the lead on " Stay " and yes it is him. I saw Theo recently singing lead for the Four Tops and at some point, near the end of one of the songs he was leading, he threw in a line from " This is my promise " . I was floored. It was at that point that I knew that it was him on all leads, where many of us thought it was Barrington "Bo " Henderson, on this incredible album. Having sang in a singing group myself, I am well aware of the different vocal textures possessed by various singers. I know it's Theo's voice. Believe me, it's Theo and not " Bo ". If you don't believe me, go see the Four Tops as soon as possible, and you'll realise it's him too. Anyway, all of the songs on this cd are great. We all know they're not the original leads, but this is great singing-period. We know they can't compare to the original five, so why should we? We should assess this collection of Temptations on their own merit-period. This is how they should be assessed. It's a great CD.

Amazing because of their " HARMONIES".......2005-08-09

This cd is tight because of it's harmonies, not just because of Theo Peoples. And contrary to what Rickey Wright had to say, this cd sounds like the Tempts, not like Take 6.He must not have heard "Everybody Needs Love"just listen to when The Tempts sing the part {Wanna Be Kissed} from Everybody Needs Love, it's sung in the same tone as {Let Me Be Your Man} from "Stay".And how the original Tempts harmonized on "The Way You Do The Things You Do" in those deep voices, repeating "The Way You Do The Things You Do"just like the newer Tempts did on Stay Til The Morning Baby Rock Me Girl Like I Wanna Rock You.It's sung in the same deep tone.Modern day studios are way better than the old studios,that might be another reason why he said it didn't sound like the Tempts, but it seems like some people don't know that singing in a modern day studio is totally different from singing in a old studio. As time went on studios improved dramatically from the 60's to the 90's and up until today. The newer studios also have better microphones, everything concerning the studio is better today. But anyway, this cd is a must have, the harmony is great, as soon as you put in the cd it's amazing. If you're thinking about buying it, stop thinking and just buy, I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Somebody said The original Tempts never sounded better collectively. I disagree, "The Way You Do The Things You Do","Message From A Blackman"from The Puzzle People Album is proof that they did, as well as "Dream Come True",","The Little Drummer Boy","SIlver Bells","I Heard It Through The Grapevine" from the cloud nine album,(turn down your right speaker to just hear the vocals from the left speaker on "I Heard It Through The Grapevine)."Gonna Keep On Tryin Til I Win Your Love" from The Sky's The Limit Album. All of the acapella versions off of the new DVD and especially the acapellas of You're My Everything, Just My Imagination, Cloud Nine and Ball of Confusion prove that there's nothing like The original Tempts. Their version of "You Can Depend On Me" and " I Gotta Know Now", "Try To Remember" , "Hello Young Lovers" and "Psychedelic Shack" live.{Psychedelic shack That's Where It's At- deep voiced harmonies again.} I gotta say You Can Depend On Me again. You Can De, then you hear the bass on "pend", come on, the classic 5 is untouchable, but I respect your opinion.

Temptations forever

outstanding because of Theo.......2004-03-10

This is a wonderful CD due most in part
to the outstanding vocals of Theo Peoples
on Stay, This is My Promise, and If I Give You
My Heart. Although he is not credited on this
CD for his contributions his efforts should not
go unnoticed. He is my favorite Temptation and
now a member of the Four Tops. If you ever have
a chance to see him in concert don't pass it up.

Love it from beginning to end.......2003-10-03

This is a great album. I've always loved the Temptations and this CD does not disappoint.

A fitting hodgepodge of Temptations styles.......2003-07-09

Released to coincide with the Otis Williams' book, as well as the highly rated NBC biopic, "Phoenix Rising" is an appropriate title for an album that, like the mythical bird, represents a re-emergence of the legendary group. With Williams as the only surviving member of the original quintet, by the time of the album's 1998, many feel that the "Temps" glory days were behind them.

Boy, were (and are) they wrong!

The disc has enough of the "old" and enough of the "new" to satisfy old school purists and R & B novices.

The album begins with a forty-four second "interlude" entitled "Hereafter" that allows the respective voice parts to shine. Following that is the hit "Stay", a song that pays tributes to the group's roots. "False Faces", cut #3, has an 80's feel about it while the fourth track, "How Could He Hurt You" is as contemporary as anything by R. Kelly or Brian McKnight.

"This is My Promise" is the stuff that weddings are made of.

Other strong cuts are the Freddie Jackson-sounding "If I Give You My Heart", the funky "My Love", and the heavenly "Just Like I Told You".

Tracks:

Everything Is Everything
Run Run Run
I'm An Actor
Love For Granted
Victim Of The Crime
(You Can't Blame It On) Anybody
Congratulations
If It's Not With You
Holdin' On Together
Alphabetical

Customer Reviews:

No edge....Not a huge problem.......2007-03-20

A bit down the page one user remarked how this album is missing that ever elusive "edge". I'm not so sure that Pheonix are aiming for any edge, I would venture to say that they are going for something "smooth". To me, these guys seem pretty deliberate with their delivery, and their lead singer, Thomas Mars, is good at what he does regardless of whether you like it or not. His voice is the aural equivalent of velour. By that I mean smooth and cheesy at times, but very pleasing. You must judge things in context. I wouldn't like his voice in anything rock or folky, but when you are listening to this mellow, laid back sort of funk, it is pure gold.

I like this album a lot and I absolutely love their newest album.

GIve Phoenix a try..........2007-02-24

A musically inclined friend of mine let me listen to this group, and I have not been able to get it out of my head... I went out and immediatly looked to buy it. I feel like I've been missing out all this time, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE their sound. Being a HUGE Jamiroquai fan it has that vibe but it's a bit more mellow, and like another reviewer said it IS soulful. Definitley high up there on my list of favorites.

Comparing Phoenix .......2006-11-02

Postal Service? Not a bit. Alphabetical was like having a smoke after a long day. It just makes you feel good. An aquaintance used to argue with me till red in the face that Muse and Radiohead sound the same. Not even in the same category. My poor guy remark of the day is, if your reading Abercrombie & Fitch for musical opinions, or anything for that matter, you are heading down a tiresome road.

Very Good 2nd Album.......2006-03-15

Phoenix is one of my favorite bands because of the way that their songs make you feel. You feel better after just hearing a few minutes worth of their music. Alphabetical continues right where their first album United left off.

1. Everything is Everything- My favorite song on the album. Pop perfection. 10/10
2. Run Run Run- Another great song by this amazing French band. 9.5/10
3. I'm An Actor- A Darker sounding tune than the usual phenix song. Still very good. 8.5/10
4. Love For Granted- A slower song which has great backing vocals. 8/10
5. Victim Of The Crime- Another standout track by Phoenix. I like the lyrics on this one a lot. 9.5/10
6. (You Can Blame It On) Anybody- My favorite harmonies of the album are on this song. Great 9/10
7. Congratulations- An instrumental track which is pretty sweet, but i'm not gonna rate it because it is only a minute long.
8. If It's Not With You- Very chill track. Just soak it in. 8.5/10
9. Holdin' On Together- A disco sounding song which has good lyrics and cool synthesizer sounds. 9/10
10. Alphabetical- The title track is the longest one on the album and is very very good. It even has a hidden instrumental sequence at the end. A great way to end a fantastic album. 9.25/10

Phoenix is definitely the best French Pop band going right now. Their 3rd album comes out on May 15th of this year, get excited.

Overall: 9/10, 5 Stars

...still waiting for them to sing "I like girls who wear Abercrombie and Fitch".......2005-10-30

Yes, it's mellow, yes it's easily accessible.
Yes, these French boys know their electronica.
Yes, I can see how people can compare it to Postal Service.
No, that doesn't make it good.
The thing this album is missing is that elusive, intangible "edge"
Ben Gibbard's voice provides the edge for Postal Service, the little tang to help you swallow the sweet.
This is pure fluff, nothing more. Lyrically it's worthless. That's okay if the music can stand alone, but it can't. These guys' voices are so sickly sweet and overproduced, I couldn't see them anywhere else but on American R&B radio. They need to provide the tang but they are only more sugar. Too much sugar makes you sick. And sleepy.
If you want some nice nap music, some background for a coffee shop or an elevator, you've found your band. Sign em up.
If you want to be able to differentiate any one song from the last ten you heard, don't buy this album.

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