Record Reviews

JAMES BRANDON LEWIS ~ DIVINE TRAVELS OKEH 888837666428 (Barcode: 888837666428) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2011 Released: 2014 This is the second album by young US saxophonist James Brandon LewisFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio format with two veteran Free Jazz / Improvised Music activists: bassist William ParkerFind albums by this artist and drummer Gerald CleaverFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original pieces, all credited the trio members. Two of the pieces include lyrics written by American poet Thomas Sayers EllisFind albums by this artist and recited by him. The music is a typical free form session with spontaneous improvisation being the focus of this date. It is difficult to guess how much of this music was preconceived or rehearsed in advance, but it seems as if not everything is left to spontaneity here. There are some short melody lines stated at the start of most of the pieces, but those are soon abandoned in favor of improvised sections, which don´t really have a clear purpose, sense of direction or emotional expression. Parker and Cleaver are of course recognized as some of the improvised scene leaders, but Lewis still has a long way to go. His improvisations are somewhat restricted in scope, tend to sound repetitious and display a very limited emotional range. As a result it is difficult for him to carry the weight of a whole album as the focal soloist. There is no "fire" and no "ice" in this music, just a lot of notes that manage to tingle the perception but fail to sink in. The attempt to create a Jazz & Poetry episode also remains rather unimposing, as it is only a "sidekick" and the music and words fails to create a bond that makes them something more that just word and notes uttered simultaneously. The only positive aspect of this album is the fact that it was released on the revitalized OkehFind albums on this label label, which is a subsidiary of SonyFind albums on this label Music. When I see a Free Jazz album released by a Major record label, this is a feast indeed. Hopefully Lewis will do better next time, as this is rather unimpressive.

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

CLIFF RICHARD ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES PARLOPHONE 190295966263 (Barcode: 190295966263) ~ UK ~ Classic Pop Recorded: 1959 - 1961 Released: 2016 This Box Set collects the first five albums by the great British Pop icon Cliff RichardFind albums by this artist, released between 1959 and 1961. They are: "CliffFind albums with this title" from 1959, "Cliff SingsFind albums with this title" from 1959, "Me And My ShadowsFind albums with this title" from 1960, "Listen To Cliff!Find albums with this title" from 1961 and "21 TodayFind albums with this title" from 1961. Cliff Richard was an instant success and these albums all charted very near to top with the last album in this set finally capturing the very top. His velvet voice and incredible musicality catapulted Cliff Richard to the position unprecedented by any other Pop star before him. He is the most successful British male solo artist of all time and his only competition worldwide was American superstar Elvis PresleyFind albums by this artist. These albums present Cliff Richard´s work with the legendary producer / arranger Norrie ParamorFind albums by this artist as well as his first recording with the no less legendary instrumental group The ShadowsFind albums by this artist. This is simply music history in the making. Cliff Richard managed to maintain a respectable position over the years and is still active today almost six decades after he made these recordings. He proudly created a very impressive legacy, which has but a few equals. These early albums, which have been unavailable for ages, are a must to every British 1960s Pop connoisseur. An absolute must! Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 19/07/2016

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

SHADOWS ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES PARLOPHONE 825646179749 (Barcode: 825646179749) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock This Box Set collects the first five albums by the seminal British early Rock group The ShadowsFind albums by this artist recorded and released between 1961 and 1966. The group was a quartet, pioneering instrumental Rock and their hits influenced more young (at the time) people to pick up the guitar that any other group in music history. They were also the backing band of singer Cliff RichardFind albums by this artist, which at the time meant more or less to be at the top of the world. These albums present The Shadows on their own, separate from their association with Cliff Richard, playing mostly instrumental pieces, covers as well as original compositions. Their distinctive style and sound remain fresh half a Century later, still sounding pretty unique today. The group´s lead guitarist Hank MarvinFind albums by this artist developed a completely inimitable style based on clean guitar sound with lots of echo and vibrato, which was later copied by millions of guitar player the world over. Musically these albums are of course on the easier side of the spectrum, with pretty melodies and catchy riffs, but listening attentively there is a lot of interesting stuff happening between the players, which is worth listening to, especially from such time perspective. These albums do not include the great hits of the band, which were released as singles or EPs, and are available elsewhere. Overall this is a great trip down the nostalgia lane, a piece of Pop / Rock history and amazingly a vivid proof of how popular music deteriorated over time. Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ROY WOOD ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES PARLOPHONE 825646213290 (Barcode: 825646213290) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1971 - 1979 Released: 2014 This Box Set collects five albums involving British multi-instrumentalist / composer / bandleader Roy WoodFind albums by this artist, one of the most colorful characters of the Rock scene in the 1960s / 1970s. They include the last album by the seminal group The MoveFind albums by this artist, the first album by the group Electric Light OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. ELOFind albums by this artist), which coexisted simultaneously with The Move in a "split personality" havoc with the same band members (Wood, Jeff LynneFind albums by this artist and Bev BevanFind albums by this artist) being in both groups, two solo albums by Wood and one album by Wood´s next group WizzardFind albums by this artist, spanning the period between 1971 and 1979. This selection is quite bizarre and misses the point by a mile, with the Move and ELO albums completely out of place in this Box Set. Wood recorded four solo albums, three albums with Wizzard and one with the Wizzo BandFind albums by this artist; some of these could have easily fit the bill to be included here replacing the Move and ELO albums. One we ignore the actual albums selection, the music included here is truly superb and pays tribute to one of British Rock´s greatest talents. Wood had a completely unique approach to Rock, which displayed elements of drama, theatrical expressiveness, satire and cabaret like presentation, all of which was eons ahead of its time. Forty years after it was recorded this music still sounds wonderfully weird and completely different from anything else. Wood´s ability to play almost every instrument he could lay his hands on is also pretty amazing. Overall this Box Set is a great opportunity to revisit some great music, for those of us who lived while it was happening and to discover it by those born too late to enjoy it in real time. Hopefully another Box Set will complete the Wood legacy properly. In the meantime enjoy this iconic zany / brilliant piece of Rock history. Highly recommended! Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

JIMMY WEBB ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES RHINO 081227955878 (Barcode: 081227955878) ~ USA ~ Classic Pop Recorded: 1970 - 1977 Released: 2015 This Box Set collects five (second to sixth) albums by the great American singer / songwriter Jimmy WebbFind albums by this artist, released between 1970 and 1977. They are: "Words And MusicFind albums with this title" from 1970, "And So: OnFind albums with this title" from 1971, "LettersFind albums with this title" from 1972, "Land`s EndFind albums with this title" from 1974 and "El MirageFind albums with this title" from 1977. Webb is one of the most influential figures on the American popular music scene, thanks to his phenomenal success as a songwriter. His albums, however, never really achieved much commercial success or recognition, which is a great pity as they are full of beautiful melodies and poetic lyrics. This is an excellent opportunity to re-discover them. Webb is also a very sensitive singer and his interpretations of the songs made famous by others, are often deeper and more interesting. Of course Webb will be remembered for his memorable collaboration with The 5th DimensionFind albums by this artist, Glen CampbellFind albums by this artist and numerous other Pop stars. The outrageously beautiful albums with British actor / singer Richard HarrisFind albums by this artist ("A Tramp ShiningFind albums with this title", "The Yard Went On ForeverFind albums with this title" and "My BoyFind albums with this title"), the first of which included the epic "McArthur Park", are to this day absolute Pop masterpieces, regardless of the denigration by some pompous music critics at the time of their release. Still active today as a performer and songwriter, Webb symbolizes the American songwriting at its best, in complete contrast to the infinite oceans of non-musical garbage that America produces on a massive scale. Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 09/01/2016

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

SERGIO MENDES ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES RHINO 081227975166 (Barcode: 081227975166) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1964 - 1968 Released: 2011 This Box Set collects the five albums by Brazilian pianist / composer Sergio MendesFind albums by this artist, released by AtlanticFind albums on this label Records between 1964 and 1968. During that same period Mendes also released albums for A&MFind albums on this label Records, mostly with a vocal group, which were much more popular and commercially successful. The Atlantic albums are more Jazz oriented and are one of the earliest examples of Jazz-World Fusion. Mendes gained popularity as one a several Brazilian artists, who swept the American music scene in the mid 1960s, popularizing the wonderful bossa nova movement. He combined his own composition with those of dozens of great bossa nova songwriters in Brazil, popularizing them in the USA. His various group included mostly Brazilian players, such as bassist Sebastiao NetoFind albums by this artist and drummers Chico BateraFind albums by this artist and Chico De SouzaFind albums by this artist, but he was often supported by top American Jazz players like trumpeter Art FarmerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Phil WoodsFind albums by this artist, flautist Hubert LawsFind albums by this artist and many others. Sometimes he also used extensive orchestral arrangements, which of course sounded pretty kitschy at times. In retrospect Mendes and other Brazilian musicians / composers were responsible for opening up the American musical scene to new sonic and rhythmic vistas, which also invigorated the American Jazz scene immensely at the time. These albums include many of the classic bossa nova evergreens, and still are great fun to listen to, even if they sound somewhat outdated due to relatively simplistic production and problematic sound quality. For bossa nova fans these are absolute classics, others might like to take a trip down the nostalgia lane; whatever the reason, this music still has a lot of charm and zest. Recommended! Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

TERRY REID ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES RHINO 825646163960 (Barcode: 825646163960) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1968 - 1991 Released: 2015 This Box Set collects five of the six albums by the British vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Terry ReidFind albums by this artist released between 1968 and 1991. They are: his debut album "Bang, Bang You`re Terry ReidFind albums with this title" from 1968, this eponymous second album "Terry ReidFind albums with this title" from 1969 (both produced by Mickie MostFind albums by this artist), the third album "RiverFind albums with this title" from 1973, the fifth album "Rogue WavesFind albums with this title" from 1978 and finally the sixth album "DriverFind albums with this title" from 1991. The fourth album "Seed Of MemoryFind albums with this title" from 1976 was sadly left out simply since there is no place for six albums in a five albums box; how stupid is that? Reid is sadly almost completely unknown to Rock fans, probably due to the fact that he refused several times offers that can´t be refused, like fronting Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist (he recommended Robert PlantFind albums by this artist for the job) or fronting Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist as their lead singer. His solo albums never achieved commercial success, despite the fact that they were all excellent, which is a great pity. Reid´s completely original timbre of voice is one of the most unique in Rock history and his sensitivity and intelligence as a musicians were truly above most of his contemporaries. Reid incorporated in his music Blues and Soul influences, creating a long string of memorable performances over the years. He also cooperated with many first-rate musicians over time, like Graham NashFind albums by this artist, with whom he co-wrote songs and who produced his fourth album. When listening to these albums in retrospect it becomes obvious that success is blind as a bat, and in countless cases it prefers worthless twits to hidden geniuses. At least this music is now available again for future generations and hopefully it will be discovered by some and even properly appreciated. This is, after all, a great chapter in Rock´s history. Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

STILLS & COLLINS ~ EVERYBODY KNOWS SONY 190758010625 (Barcode: 190758010625) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018 This is a sensational album by two of the American Folk / Rock icons: vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist (born 1945) and vocalist / songwriter Judy CollinsFind albums by this artist (born 1939), making an album together for the first time, which is hard to believe but true. They are accompanied by organist Russell WaldenFind albums by this artist, bassist Kevin McCormickFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony BeardFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten exquisite songs, three by Stills, two by Collins and five (one each) by other Pop / Rock icons: George HarrisonFind albums by this artist, Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist, Tim HardinFind albums by this artist, Bob DylanFind albums by this artist and Sandy DannyFind albums by this artist. The music is everything one might expect from these two legends – wonderfully melodic, mostly melancholic and low key, full of brilliant harmonies and accompanied by elegant instrumental work, which is simply perfect for this kind of atmosphere. The arrangements of the five songs, which most music lovers are familiar with in their original versions is fresh, intelligent and truly inspired. Both Stills and Collins sound surprisingly fresh and clear, as if untouched by the tides of time, and Stills delivers some sweet solo guitar work, which remains unparalleled. The closing track of the album sounds as strong as the best work of Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist, but the entire album is completely coherent and absolutely top notch both vocally and instrumentally. Although "instant classic" is a much overused term these days, if any album deserves to be called that – this is the one. Could have been (or perhaps should have been) recorded in the 1960s, but here and now, fifty years later, it is definitely better late than never! A complete unadulterated delight from start to finish!

Updated: 01/04/2018Posted: 01/04/2018

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

BIG BROTHER AND THE HOLDING COMPANY ~ SEX, DOPE & CHEAP THRILLS SONY 190758635224 (Barcode: 190758635224) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1968 Released: 2018 This is a sensational archival companion to the iconic Classic Rock album "Cheap ThrillsFind albums with this title" by Big Brother And The Holding CompanyFind albums by this artist, released to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the release of the original album. The group, headed by the greatest ever female Rock vocalist Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist, included also guitarists Sam AndrewFind albums by this artist and James GurleyFind albums by this artist, bassist Peter AlbinFind albums by this artist and drummer David GetzFind albums by this artist. The album presents twenty nine outtakes recorded during the sessions that produced the original album and one live track from the Winterland Ballroom concert recorded in April 1968, which was not included on the live album that presents the rest of the concert, called "Live At The Winterland `68Find albums with this title". From the thirty tracks on the 2CD album twenty five are previously unreleased. The album´s title is what the original album was supposed to be called, but obviously at the time it was considered way to daring for a Major label. For the Classic Rock cognoscenti there is very little one can add to what they already know and hopefully feel about this music. A wonderful amalgam of Blues, Psychedelic Rock, Rock And Roll and Soul, this music embodies what American music was all about in the late 1960s, constantly breaking new ground and being alive and kicking like it will never be again in the years that followed. Concealing twenty five previously unreleased tracks featuring the incredible artistry of Janis Joplin is a Cultural Crime, which Major labels like ColumbiaFind albums on this label have been committing repeatedly. Joplin´s recording legacy, tragically cut short by her early demise, left us with relatively limited evidence of her Godly talent, and this album offers a tremendous wealth of her unadulterated Genius. Although some of the songs are repeated several times, each and every take is completely different of course and especially Joplin´s heartwrenching vocals are completely unique time after time and as such worth their weight in gold. Joplin´s stardom clearly overshadowed the role of the band, which although unfair was pretty understandable. But Big Brother was a great band by any standard, capable of great instrumental work and superb support behind Joplin. Both guitarists produced many exquisite solos on various occasions and the double guitar lineup was one of the first of its kind. This album confirms the band´s excellent work even further. Columbia´s decision to convince Joplin to drop the band and pursue a solo career was completely off the track of course as much as it was brutally unfair towards the band. As a result Joplin, notwithstanding her immense talent, would never sound as tight and expressive as she did on "Cheap Thrills". The tracks on this album clearly show why that happened. Overall this album is a tremendous historical document of one of the greatest moments in American Classic Rock and an important extension of an iconic / pivotal Classic Rock album, which should be of interest to every Classic Rock connoisseur!

Updated: 18/01/2019Posted: 18/01/2019

CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

BOBBY MCFERRIN ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 190758893723 (Barcode: 190758893723) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 1991 - 2013 Released: 2018 This Box Set collects reissues of five albums by the legendary American Jazz vocalist Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist, originally released on the SonyFind albums on this label label between 1992 and 2013. They are: “HushFind albums with this title” (1992), “Paper MusicFind albums with this title” (1995), “The Mozart SessionsFind albums with this title” (1996), “CirclesongsFind albums with this title” (1997) and “SpirityouallFind albums with this title” (2013). “Hush” is a duo recording with cellist Yo-Yo MaFind albums by this artist and presents thirteen pieces, four of which are originals by McFerrin and the rest are arrangements of well-known Classical compositions. “Paper Music” is a recording of McFerrin conducting the Saint Paul Chamber OrchestraFind albums by this artist and singing specially arranged vocal parts to nine Classical compositions. “The Mozart Sessions” is also a recording of McFerrin conducting the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and singing specially arranged vocal parts, with pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist performing the piano parts. Together they perform two Concerti by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartFind albums by this artist and a vocals / piano improvisation based on a Mozart sonata. “Circlesongs” is a cappella recording of eight original pieces performed by McFerrin with twelve invited vocalists. “Spirityouall” is a mixture of Americana, spirituals and original songs performed by McFerrin, a Jazz group and background vocals. McFerrin is undoubtedly the greatest male Jazz vocalist of all time and one of the most creative, versatile and open-minded musical personalities ever on the American scene. Although three of these five albums showcase him in the Jazz-Classical Fusion idiom, his extensive and superbly diverse recorded legacy presents the full picture of his achievements so far, and one can never expect what else he will come up with next. He is also one of the nicest human beings I have ever had the opportunity to meet in person, which is of course not less important than his musical genius. Definitely a “Don’t worry, be happy” person, but also an exceptionally gifted human being. This music is of course beyond recommendation… Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 08/09/2021Posted: 08/09/2021

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Recommend To A Friend

LE ORME ~ SULLE ALI DI UN SOGNO SONY 190759328323 (Barcode: 190759328323) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 When I went to the famous Feltrinelli shop in Rome to pick up the new Banco Del Mutuo SoccorsoFind albums by this artist album "TransiberianaFind albums with this title" on the day of its release, I just couldn´t resist getting the new album by another legendary Italian Prog band, Le OrmeFind albums by this artist, which was released less than a couple months earlier. However upon closer examination I found out that although the album was newly recorded, it includes only two new songs and the other nine tracks of the album are new versions of old songs from the band´s vast repertoire, starting with the "CollageFind albums with this title" album from 1971 and up to the "ClassicOrmeFind albums with this title" album from 2017. With drummer Michi Del RossiFind albums by this artist as the only founding member present and keyboardist Michele BonFind albums by this artist from later lineups, the group also includes bassist / vocalist Alessio TrapellaFind albums by this artist and guitarist Ivan GeronazzoFind albums by this artist. Two vocalists (each on one track) and famed violinist David CrossFind albums by this artist (on six tracks) appear as guest artists. In spite the fact that the album does not offer much new music, it is hard to resist the charm of Le Orme, which always was their main forte. The typical Italian lyricism and melancholy, embodied by their beautiful melodies and delicate harmonies are overwhelming and this album is full of them from start to finish. Although the album includes material spanning almost fifty years, it offers a coherent, strongly Classical Music oriented arrangements, which combined with the Italian lyrics is simply heart-melting. In short, although calling this a new Le Orme album might be a bit stretched, it is still a very nice piece of music, which is definitely worth listening to. From what I have seen on so far the album was rather coldly received by the "critics", which of course means very little. In contrast to the above mentioned Banco Del Mutuo Soccorso album it is not an effort to return to the glory days of the group´s early days but rather an attempt to keep their older music alive today, a perfectly valid concept by itself. Overall this is a superb collection of melodic tunes, which are closer to Pop-Classical Fusion than Prog, but are nevertheless a pleasant listening experience and a nice escape from the contemporary non-music atrocity around us.

Updated: 20/05/2019Posted: 20/05/2019

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

BANCO DEL MUTUO SOCCORSO ~ TRANSIBERIANA (LIMITED EDITION) SONY 190759343722 (Barcode: 190759343722) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 On May 10, 2019, the day this album was released, I happened to be in Rome, so there was no way I was going to ignore the event and not get a copy of a new Banco Del Mutuo SoccorsoFind albums by this artist album, released twenty two years after their last studio album "NudoFind albums with this title". After all they were obviously a significant part of the soundtrack of my life as one of the three leading Italian Prog bands in the 1970s together with PFMFind albums by this artist and Le OrmeFind albums by this artist. Fronted by the original founding member, keyboardist / composer Vittorio NocenziFind albums by this artist, the band also includes lead guitarist Filippo MarcheggianiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Nicola Di GiàFind albums by this artist, bassist Marco CapoziFind albums by this artist, drummer Fabio MorescoFind albums by this artist and lead vocalist Tony D`AlessioFind albums by this artist. The album presents, as expected, a concept journey suite comprising of eleven tracks. All the music was co-composed by Vittorio Nocenzi and his son Michelangelo NocenziFind albums by this artist, This Limited Edition is lavishly packaged in a digibook format and includes a 44-page booklet with in depth essay and the lyrics in Italian and English and splendid photographs, as well as two bonus tracks recorded live in 2018. Although the Prog genre lost its "progressive" characteristic by the end of the 1970s and didn´t move an inch forward since, this does not mean that it lost its Artistic values. Some wonderful music was created within the Prog idiom over the years and this album is a wonderful illustration of such a case. Prog simply became a "closed" genre, which offers ambitious, sophisticated and intelligent Rock music, with an emphasis on well structured melodic themes, which serve as basis for extended improvisations, blending Classical, Rock and Jazz flavors in a kaleidoscope of sounds, which has a distinct keyboards dominated sound. On this album Banco Del Mutuo Soccorso return to their heyday period, during which they created their first three albums: the eponymous debut, "Darwin!Find albums with this title" and "Io Sono Nato LiberoFind albums with this title", all classic examples of Italian Prog. The same approach to melody, harmony and instrumentation appears here, with only slightly updated sound and production techniques, but faithfully preserving the overall retro ambience. The philosophical concept subject matter also returns, adding an intellectual dimension to the entire project. Altogether the album offers a superb collection of wonderful melodies, full of typical Italian lyricism, beautiful harmony and heartbreaking sincerity. The Italian lyrics work like magic and honestly even reading a telephone book in Italian sounds simply stupendous. Some "critics" will probably claim that this is all about nostalgia, but the truth is that this album has nothing to do with nostalgia. It is completely fresh and contemporary, and the fact that it is still presented as or considered as Prog does not weaken its value whatsoever. Yes, there is not much innovation here, but everything is done with exquisite elegance, taste and flair, as only the most talented musicians are able to create a perfect piece of music based on a tradition, which they wish to preserve. Overall this is a magnificent album, full of great music, superb playing and full of aesthetic values, which are sadly mostly gone from our present reality. A rare gem proving that not all is lost and some musical sanity is still around us. Thank you Gentlemen for this gift of music!

Updated: 17/05/2019Posted: 17/05/2019

CD 1 Digibook Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ ELECTRIC LADY STUDIOS: A JIMI HENDRIX VISION SONY 194398908427 (Barcode: 194398908427) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2024 This is an archival Box Set, which includes material recorded by the Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Billy CoxFind albums by this artist and drummer Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist, captured for posterity in the newly opened Electric Lady Studios in NY between June and August 1970, just before the tragic and unexpected death of Hendrix in September of that year. All the material was recorded and mixed by the legendary studio wizard Eddie KramerFind albums by this artist. The Box Set also includes the documentary “Electric Lady Studios: A Jimi Hendrix Vision”, which tells the story of creation of the Electric Lady Studios. The Box Set includes three CDs and a BD, and a superb booklet with great photographs and detailed description of each track. It was manufactured in 2021 but the distribution was delayed until 2024 for legal reasons. The 3 CDs present thirty-nine tracks, all bar one previously unreleased. Those are alternate versions, alternate mixes, alternate takes, demos, etc., except for two spontaneous jams, which were just studio time fillers, including a twenty-six minutes long medley. The BD includes the full documentary and twenty newly remixed tracks in 5.1 Surround Sound, which are basically the “First Rays Of The New Rising SunFind albums with this title” album plus three bonus tracks. The performances are as stellar as one might expect from this unearthly trio, and these early moments are especially interesting as all three players were always testing the ground and experimenting. The brilliant virtuosity and originality was all there already, so there is nothing for us but to admire once again the best ever Rock guitar player in action, supported by an unstoppable and incredibly sophisticated rhythm section. Overall, despite the fact that there is no really new material here, as the Hendrix recorded legacy has been truly deeply explored already, this album is an absolute pure gold as far as Rock history is concerned. It does not matter how many Hendrix albums there are already in your collection, this is definitely one of the most fascinating, presenting Hendrix in the studio devoted to create the best music he was able to, a perfectionist to the max.

Updated: 17/03/2025Posted: 17/03/2025

3CD+BD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ LOS ANGELES FORUM SONY 196587246723 (Barcode: 196587246723) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1969 Released: 2022 The short-lived Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist remains a quintessential icon of the Golden Decade of Classic Rock. A combination of American blues soaked guitar virtuosity of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist and British Rock / Prog influenced bassist (originally a guitarist as well) Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist and Jazz influenced drummer Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist, created a phenomenon way bigger than just a Power Rock trio. Hendrix perfected the Rock improvisation idiom, bringing it to ecstatic heights beyond any other Rock guitarist of his generation and the tightness of the trio defined the parameters of the Power Rock idiom. This album is an archival live recording, captured at the Los Angeles Forum on April 26, 1969 at the last leg of the last Experience American tour. The internal tensions and other circumstances would tear the trio apart soon after. The concert was recorded and intended to be released as a live album, but that never materialized. Although the recordings present here were previously scattered on several collection albums, the concert in its entirety appears here for the first time, and the new remix, by the legendary studio engineer Eddie KramerFind albums by this artist, improves the aural experience considerably. The material includes the usual mixture of original material and favorite covers by the trio, with no special surprises. The booklet includes some fine photographs and interesting liner notes, describing the historical background of this recording. Overall, although not particularly innovating to the Hendrix crowd, this is still a great time capsule, documenting a unique phenomenon called Jimi Hendrix Experience, which although recorded over five decades ago, sounds today infinitely better than most Rock music recorded since. An absolute must to all Hendrix enthusiasts!

Updated: 02/12/2022Posted: 02/12/2022

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

BANCO DEL MUTUO SOCCORSO ~ ORLANDO: LE FORME DELL`AMORE (LIMITED EDITION) SONY 196587265120 (Barcode: 196587265120) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is an album by the iconic Italian Progressive Rock group Banco Del Mutuo SoccorsoFind albums by this artist, released three years after their previous album “TransiberianaFind albums with this title” and celebrating five decades of their musical activity, which started in 1972 with the release of their debut eponymous album. Fronted by the founding member, keyboardist / composer Vittorio NocenziFind albums by this artist, the group also includes lead guitarist Filippo MarcheggianiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Nicola Di GiàFind albums by this artist, bassist Marco CapoziFind albums by this artist, drummer Fabio MorescoFind albums by this artist and vocalist Tony D`AlessioFind albums by this artist. The album presents, as usual, a concept journey, this time based on the epic poem “Orlando Furioso” by Italian poet Ludovico AriostoFind albums by this artist, consisting of fifteen original songs, all by Vittorio Nocenzi and his son Michelangelo NocenziFind albums by this artist and lyricist Paolo LogliFind albums by this artist. The beautiful booklet contains the original Italian lyrics and the English translation. The music is classic Italian Progressive Rock, which faithfully continues the tradition of the genre from the 1970s, based on beautiful melodic themes, heartfelt vocals and excellent instrumental work with impressive solos. The entire album is perfectly balanced, coherent and emphasizes the Artistic / aesthetic approach to music, characteristic to the European modus operandi. With Progressive Rock being in decline, or deep coma, since decades, recording an album like this one is a very courageous act of putting one’s beliefs and convictions out in the open, against all odds. I can already hear the “critics” talking about this being outdated, nostalgia driven, irrelevant, etc. What nonsense… Personally I admire these musicians for the stamina and their ability to discard and ignore the fads and fashions of contemporary music, which are tragically empty of any Artistic flair. Great music is completely timeless, and it is perfectly logical to create music, which originates in concepts defined fifty years ago, as long as it offers aesthetic values and musical ideals, which stand the tides of time. The world driven by the insane obsession of constant change and instant gratification simply does not deserve great music. Overall, this is another Masterpiece by a legendary group, which withstands the madness of furious moving “forward” towards nowhere. Faithfully preserving the concept of Progressive Rock, as well the unique Italian sensitivity and centuries long musical tradition, this is an instant classic of the genre. The followers of Banco need no convincing of course, but hopefully some youngsters will discover this album in order to hear what true Prog is all about, and not the ersatz products being offered under this moniker.

Updated: 31/10/2022Posted: 27/10/2022

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ HOLLYWOOD BOWL, AUGUST 18, 1967 SONY 196588315626 (Barcode: 196588315626) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1967 Released: 2023 This is an archival live album by the legendary Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist, which was previously unreleased. The album presents ten tracks, which are a mixture of original songs and songs by others. Originally recorded on a cassette and offering a pretty Lo-Fi sound quality, the music was restored and remastered by the mythological Eddie KramerFind albums by this artist, and is certainly audible. The fact that previously unreleased material by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist is still being unearthed almost 60 years later is truly astounding. At the time of the recording, Hendrix and his trio were almost completely unknown in the US, with only one previous appearance at the Monterey Pop Festival a couple of month earlier. The trio was formed in UK and included British bassist Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist and drummer Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist, releasing their debut album in UK in May 1967, which was not released in the US until much later. They made a name for themselves in the UK and Europe, but the US was as yet unconquered. The performances are as stellar as one might expect from this unearthly trio, and these early moments are especially interesting as all three players were still testing their ground and experimenting, before the wall of sound effect they developed later on was firmly in place. The brilliant virtuosity and originality was all there already, so there is nothing for us but to admire once again the best ever Rock guitar player in action, supported by an unstoppable and incredibly sophisticated rhythm section. Overall, despite the imperfect sound quality, this album is an absolute pure gold as far as Rock history is concerned. It does not matter how many live Hendrix live album there are already in your collection, this is definitely one of the most fascinating, presenting Hendrix at his most innocent, almost naïve self, before fame, fortune and drugs destroyed him. Long live the Summer Of Love!

Updated: 22/12/2023Posted: 22/12/2023

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

GATO BARBIERI ~ THE THIRD WORLD SONY 25758 (Barcode: 743212575828) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1969 Released: 2009 This is an absolutely stunning early album by Argentinean Jazz saxophonist / composer Gato BarbieriFind albums by this artist. Barbieri left his homeland in 1962, settling first in Europe, where he worked with local as well as American musicians, who resided in Europe due to a much more open and receptive cultural climate there. Barbieri also worked closely with movie directors composing scores for several films. In 1968 he recorded finally his first album as a leader, called "In Search Of The MysteryFind albums with this title", released by the legendary ESPFind albums on this label label in NY. A year later he recorded this album, which was released on no less legendary Flying DutchmanFind albums on this label label, founded and initially owned by the great producer Bob ThieleFind albums by this artist, which released some of the most impressive, interesting and revolutionary Jazz music in the late 1960s and early 1970s by artists from many corners of the world, who could not find a label to release their music on. The lineup if extremely impressive and includes bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist, pianist Lonnie Liston SmithFind albums by this artist, drummer Beaver HarrisFind albums by this artist, trombonist Roswell RuddFind albums by this artist and percussionist Richard LandrumFind albums by this artist. The music is one of the earliest examples of World Music influenced Jazz, with Barbieri incorporating his unique amalgam of South American melody lines and rhythmic approach, all originating from his native Argentina (yes, the Tango), Brazil and other sources. All these elements are presented in a Free Jazz framework, where collective improvisation is the dominant means of expression. Barbieri´s brilliant playing is the focal point of course, with his extended surges of tenor saxophone fluctuating with seemingly endless energy and passion. Obviously strongly influenced by John Coltrane, Barbieri produces a "total" wall of sound, which requires the listener to open up completely and absorb the influx of many parallel sources of sound and create his own impressions. Of course this all makes perfect sense, once properly grasped and turns out to be truly prophetic music. Barbieri´s later recordings would become somewhat less intensive and he would return to melody as well, but his brilliant playing would always be a beacon of total dedication and an example of masterly and brilliantly executed music. Absolutely stunning stuff!

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

CHICK COREA ~ COREA.CONCERTO SONY 61799 (Barcode: 5099706179924) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999 What a fantastic and sadly overlooked album! Recorded in 1999 with his group OriginFind albums by this artist and the London Philharmonic OrchestraFind albums by this artist, this is Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist’s first “serious” flirt with classical music. Combining jazz and classical music is not new per se, but the results over the years varied between banal and brilliant. Fortunately this one belongs to the latter category. Corea proved over the years his amazing versatility in the jazz genre, composing and performing in every sub-genre between free jazz and fusion. This time he steps beyond the strict jazz field and shows that he can do it splendidly. The album includes two major works (each in three parts): his already “classic” composition Spain arranged for sextet and orchestra and the Concerto No. 1 for piano and Orchestra. The music is of course typical Corea, but the orchestral parts bring reminiscences of Gershwin’s classical works and works of the French Modernists. Of course the entire work is original and intricate enough to provide the listener with immense pleasures. The recording quality is superb, with each instrument heard distinctly and in full range. Special merit goes to Avishai CohenFind albums by this artist’s bass contributions. Most warmly recommended and essential for Corea’s fans!

CD 1 Oversampling Essential Recommend To A Friend

SANTANA ~ SANTANA IV SONY 696859969492 (Barcode: 696859969492) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 2014 - 2015 Released: 2016 This is not a "lost" unreleased album by SantanaFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest and most inventive Rock bands in the history of modern music; this is the reunion album which assembles five of the original members of the band, who participated in the recording of Santana´s third album: guitarists Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist and Neal SchonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Gregg RolieFind albums by this artist, drummer Michael ShrieveFind albums by this artist and percussionist Michael CarabelloFind albums by this artist. The band is further enhanced by the presence of bassist Benny RietveldFind albums by this artist and percussionist Karl PerazzoFind albums by this artist, both members of the current incarnation of the band. The album presents sixteen new songs, which were written by the band members over a period of two years. Reunion albums are very perilous endeavors and the fact that this album is overall quite excellent is a true miracle. During the forty five years that passed between the release of Santana III and Santana IV, the musical world went through so many changes (all for the worse of course) that the sheer audacity of the band to ignore the odds and try to make an about-turn and create an album that continues the music the band played then is staggering. And yet, to a large extend they succeeded to accomplish the impossible and the music on this album is instantly recognizable as Santana circa early 1970s or at least originating in that period. After all Santana invented Latin Rock and over time no other band made any significant contribution to that genre or surpassed Santana´s abilities. Of course not everything is perfect here: the material displays certain ups and downs and is not exactly in par with the tunes from the past. The vocals are somewhat trivial, which worked fine with the spontaneity of the original albums, but is not acceptable any more. The biggest problems lay within the production aspects of the album: the sound is way too sharp and dry and the mix is uneven and often hides instruments, especially the guitars, beneath the percussion racket. Rather than going for the contemporary sound this album would have benefited considerably from using a "retro" sound, emphasizing the continuity effect. But all criticism aside, this is an ass-kicking album, which offers one and a quarter of an hour of genuine Rock, which very few other bands today are able even to come close to. So this, the twenty-third studio album by Santana, is definitely a most welcome rejuvenation effort, which is an absolute delight to be listened to, especially in comparison to the usual toxic waste the musical industry spews out every day. Hasta siempre amigos!

Updated: 18/07/2016Posted: 18/07/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ AXIS: BOLD AS LOVE (EXPANDED EDITION) SONY 762163 (Barcode: 886976216320) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1967 Released: 2010 2nd album by the greatest guitar player that ever walked on the face of the earth, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, which continued to revolutionize the fate of Rock music as we know it. Following the release of the debut album "Are You ExperiencedFind albums with this title", Hendrix and his British partners: Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, explored the British Underground and Psychedelic scene, which was at its peak at the time, absorbing the influences and incorporating them into their own music. The resulting album, recorded and released just a few months after the debut album, was another stunning excursion. Much more relaxed and contemplative than the debut album, it was the ultimate Psychedelic trip, with Hendrix guitar magic venturing repeatedly into completely uncharted territory. It was of course a nod in the direction Hendrix was to follow in his next and ultimate masterpiece "Electric LadylandFind albums with this title", which took his ever-expanding musical vocabulary way beyond the Blues and Rock sources. This new edition, newly remastered, adds a specially filmed DVD, which explores the process of creating this album. Need I say more?

CD+DVD 2 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ ELECTRIC LADYLAND (EXPANDED EDITION) SONY 762164 (Barcode: 886976216429) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1968 Released: 2010 3rd and last album by the greatest guitar player that ever walked on the face of the earth, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, which continued to revolutionize the fate of Rock music as we know it. Following the release of the two stunning albums a year earlier ("Are You ExperiencedFind albums with this title" and "Axis: Bold As LoveFind albums with this title"), Hendrix and his British partners: Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, explored the unchartered territories of Rock beyond anything tried previously, even by the boldest explorers of the genre. In the meantime Hendrix also got exposed to many other musical explorations beyond Rock, mainly to the pioneering Jazz-Rock experimentations of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, which influenced him deeply and were supposed to culminate in actual cooperation, which sadly never materialized. In making this milestone recording, Hendrix fused together everything he knew up to this point of his musical development, the early Blues influences, the Psychedelic music of the British Underground Scene, the new Jazz feel and even Avant-Garde sound experimentation, producing what would become one of the true icons of musical achievement, a timeless tour de force, a magnum opus and a work of a genius. The album also marks the first time Hendrix involved other musicians apart from the trio, like Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist, Al KooperFind albums by this artist and others. One could easily write a whole book just about this album, analyzing its musical values as well as its historical significance, but in all honesty listening to it is all that matters. I have been doing just that for the last 42 years since I got my sweaty hands on the shiny double LP for the first time. It´s been a faithful companion in bad times and good times, never letting me down. It still sounds prophetic, every time I listen to it. This new edition, newly remastered, adds a specially filmed DVD, which explores the process of creating this album. Need I say more?

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD+DVD 2 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ FIRST RAYS OF THE NEW RISING SUN (EXPANDED EDITION) SONY 762168 (Barcode: 886976215828) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2010 This incredible collection of 17 tracks, which were (all except one) recorded by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist during the months shortly preceding his tragic and untimely death in September 1970, are a best possible reconstruction of the next double LP Jimi planned to release under this title as the follow up to "Electric LadylandFind albums with this title". Most of the work on these tracks was done in the newly constructed Electric Lady studio, which was Jimi´s brainchild and dream. Engineered by Eddie KramerFind albums by this artist, the same sound engineer who recorded all Jimi´s studio material, these songs were never finished and polished to perfection the way Hendrix would have probably made them as their final versions, but we´ll never know how that would have turned out. But under these circumstances, whatever is here in whatever shape or stage of completion, is surely important and essential enough to be cherished and remembered, as is every note Hendrix played during his short life. The music is performed by the usual Hendrix trio Mk II with Billy CoxFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, with several other artists appearing on various tracks. Stylistically the music is quite different from the early Jimi Hendrix Experience material, with Jimi pushing constantly to cover more ground away from the Blues influences into more Rhythm And Blues and even Soul influenced music, in a way coming back full circle to the music he used to play in his formative years. But of course his genus guitar work and vocal delivery make whatever style he was playing in less significant, since anything he touched was, and always will be, first and foremost Jimi Hendrix. All these songs were previously released on three posthumous Hendrix albums in 1971 ("The Cry Of LoveFind albums with this title" and "Rainbow BridgeFind albums with this title") and 1972 ("War HeroesFind albums with this title"), but grouped together here they are the first proper treatment of this material. This new edition, newly remastered, adds a specially filmed DVD, which explores the process of creating this music. Essential stuff for body and soul!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted:

CD+DVD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ BAND OF GYPSYS SONY 762394 (Barcode: 886976239428) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2010 4th album by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, the greatest guitar player ever, and his first and only live recording that was released before his untimely death. The Band Of GypsysFind albums by this artist was a short-lived trio, which brought the guitarist together with bassist Billy CoxFind albums by this artist and drummer Buddy MilesFind albums by this artist for the purpose of recording just one album, which Hendrix owed contractually to one of his previous music industry employers in the US as a result of litigation. In the midst of the confusion, which surrounded Hendrix during and after the recording of his last studio album ("Electric LadylandFind albums with this title") he was unable to come up with the highly anticipated follow up. Taking a break from these hectic attempts, he quickly formed the Band Of Gypsys and prepared the trio for the gig, which would be recorded live and produce the legally owned recording, clearing him from this obligation and allowing him to concentrate on recording the next studio album. The whole affair lasted just for about a couple of months, culminating with the 1969 / 1970 New Year recording of four sets at the legendary Fillmore East in NY. They would play only one more gig a month later and disband. Regardless of these convoluted circumstances, this album would become one of the cornerstone recordings of the era, inspiring generations of future musicians, as it was visionary and prophetic in every way. The four new songs Hendrix used for this album were beacons of his new musical direction, mixing Rock, Soul, Rhythm And Blues, Jazz and every other form of popular music known to man at the time, foretelling many new genres that were to be born generations later. The performances are truly inspired, with Hendrix playing some of the most amazing guitar sounds ever recorded, and the energetic and tight support of his rhythm section allowed him to stretch out and fly, soar, skyrocket, dive, freefall and do it again and again. This recording is a time capsule, an essential document not only of a sublime artists but of an era, in fact an end of an era, and what more appropriate anthem for the 1960s could be imagined, other then this album? The rest is of course history; in a few months Hendrix would be dead, the follow up studio album still unreleased, and in the 40 years since the time this music was recorded literally hundreds of live Hendrix recordings would appear in legal, semi-legal, bootleg and complete bogus form – proving beyond any reasonable doubt that the spirit of Jimi Hendrix is still among us.

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted:

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ ARE YOU EXPERIENCED (EXPANDED EDITION) SONY 763179 (Barcode: 886976317928) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1966 Released: 2010 1st album by the greatest guitar player that ever walked on the face of the earth, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, which completely revolutionized the fate of Rock music as we know it. Endless writings on the subject already detailed the intricacies of this prophetic music, the unearthly talent of Hendrix and the significance of this album in music history, so I won´t bore the reader with my meager explorations on the subject. Suffice to say this was one of the first recordings that truly turned me on and made me realize that Rock can be a creative, meaningful and significant musical experience. I´ve never stopped to listen to this album in the last 43 years since its release and I have no intention to do so up to my last breath. In retrospect it´s interesting to note that this music would have probably never happened if not for the fact that Hendrix was snatched from the American mediocrity and brought over to England, where his genius was appreciated. The support and inspiration Hendrix received from his band members: Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, was a vital component of his breakthrough, as much as the management and support extended by the man, who discovered his genius, Chas ChandlerFind albums by this artist. The European intellectual and artistic Renaissance, which was at its peak in the mid-1960s, with its openness and warm embrace of bold and groundbreaking ideas, music included, allowed Hendrix to find his path and discover his genius, exploring it to the fullest. The result: one of the greatest debut albums ever recorded in music history and an instant classic. This new edition, newly remastered, adds several bonus tracks to the original album´s content as well as a specially filmed DVD, which explores the process of creating this album. Need I say more?

CD+DVD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ VALLEYS OF NEPTUNE SONY 764056 (Barcode: 886976405625) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1969 Released: 2010 Holding a new album by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, released forty years after his death, is surely an once-in-a-lifetime experience for someone, like me, for whom the music of Hendrix has been the soundtrack of his life. Anything I can say here is completely insignificant in comparison to the anticipation and then the excitement of pushing the play button with this album inside the CD player for the first time. The plethora of posthumous Hendrix albums on the market are all live recordings of various quality and often of almost unlistenable quality, so hearing twelve pristine studio recordings, previously unreleased and mostly previously unheard, is a momentous event for any Rock fan on this planet. The legendary status achieved by Hendrix over the years and the influence of his music, most of which was recorded in a brief three years period, is completely unprecedented in music history. Although Hendrix managed to win an immediate acceptance and massive popularity following the release of his debut album in 1967, his true musical genius came to be appreciated over the years with ever increasing intensity. Generation after generation of musicians and listeners realized that his prophetic musical vision, combining cross-genre idioms and breaking established barriers was eons ahead of its time and remains completely exceptional and solitary in contemporary music history. Most of the music included on this album was recorded by the original Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist, with Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, between February and September 1969, in an attempt to assemble material for the follow up album to the "Electric LadylandFind albums with this title" masterpiece released the year before. Three tracks feature bassist Billy CoxFind albums by this artist, summoned by Hendrix from the US to replace Redding due to a personal drift between the two, which ultimately led to the demise of Experience and the formation of the Band Of GypsysFind albums by this artist lineup with Buddy MilesFind albums by this artist. Some of the songs included here are known to Hendrix followers in their live versions, but these studio recordings present them in a much more precise and solidified form, which were the basis for future expanded and improvised upon live versions. Unfortunately, as we all know, the follow up album never materialized and with Hendrix tragically dead soon after, this is the closest we are ever going to be able to enjoy and cherish. I´m confident that in time, when all this new material truly sinks in, after repeated listening, it is inevitably bound to become an extension of the glorious Hendrix legacy we are privileged to enjoy due to his timeless, extraordinary genius. Thank you God for being able to experience Hendrix!

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

HERBIE HANCOCK ~ THE IMAGINE PROJECT SONY 771899 (Barcode: 886977189920) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010 One of the advantages of being 70 is that you don´t need to prove yourself any more. This is of course especially true in case of Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, who lists among the greatest Jazz musicians of all time. He was lucky to age well, with his career still intact and what is perhaps even more important he keeps moving forward and changing his musical directions constantly. Hancock never was one of those Jazz musicians, who refuse to leave the lofty pedestal of Jazz "superiority", ignoring whatever is happening in contemporary music. In the last couple of decades Hancock, in parallel to his Jazz activities, recorded projects which pay tribute to other musical phenomena, including Pop and Rock. His "The New StandardFind albums with this title" album presented a collection of contemporary Pop anthems arranged for a Jazz ensemble, His wonderful tribute to the talents of the divine Joni Mitchell ("River: The Joni LettersFind albums with this title") is another of such projects. This project takes thing even a notch further. Hancock invited a group of musicians from all over the world; each and every one of them representing a different aspect of World Music influenced contemporary music and recorded with them new arrangements to some classic Pop songs. Augmented by some of the best Jazz musicians around (drummer Vinnie ColaiutaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, percussionist Alex AcunaFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Larry GoldingsFind albums by this artist, bassist Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist and many others) and recorded in many different studios around the world, this is a magical tribute to contemporary music by a Master musician. I absolutely loved every minute of it and I´m sure many of you will too! Side Note: I have read quite a few reviews of this album published in the few weeks since its release and unfortunately most of them are completely irrelevant, missing the point by a mile. Many people seem to dislike this album for a variety of reasons, simply being completely ignorant to its concept and qualities. As we say around these parts: "The dogs keep barking and the caravan moves on".

Updated: 17/06/2016Posted:

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ BBC SESSIONS (DELUXE EDITION) SONY 774519 (Barcode: 886977451928) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1967 - 1969 Released: 2010 The BBC vaults are surely the world´s most valuable archive of recorded music when it comes to documenting the Golden Age of late 1960 and early 1970s. Countless albums based on the material recorded by the BBC have been released over time, revealing many previously never heard performances. Most of these recordings are blessed by both a high sonic quality and spirited performances, inspired by the incredible atmosphere, which existed at that time in the various BBC recording facilities, manned by the best sound engineers and producers of the time. The collection of BBC recordings by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist is one of the greatest musical treasures to come out of these vaults. His short career and just a few studio albums leave the numerous fans hungry for additional high-quality material, and this album supplies just that. Almost all of the material presented here was recorded in 1967, with the exception of a few tracks from a TV show in early January of 1969, by which time the Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist was almost on the verge of being disbanded. This new edition also adds some BBC video material as well as one previously unreleased audio track. There is no need to go into the importance of this music, as it is obvious to anybody aware of Rock´s history. It is a Holy Grail from start to finish and an absolutely essential piece of history!

2CD+DVD 3 Digipak Essential Recommend To A Friend

JIMI HENDRIX ~ LIVE AT WOODSTOCK SONY 780552 (Barcode: 886978055224) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1969 Released: 2010 As imperfect as the Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist Woodstock appearance is, it is still an iconic moment not only in Rock history but also a turning point in US history. As the closing set of the festival, Hendrix played to a small "leftovers" crowd of the immense human Woodstock gathering, when the almost apocalyptic scenery of garbage and desolation serves as the visual background of his performance in the Woodstock movie. The 1960s were over, for Hendrix, for the US, for the world. The ideology of "Peace and Love", shuttered by the Vietnam War, Cold War, political hypocrisy and false promises of "chasing the buck" were definitely winning. The social unrest and high aspirations to create a "better world" would be also over pretty soon, ultimately making no impact in the big picture. Europe would hold on to the ideology for a bit longer, eventually falling victim to the Golden Calf as well. It was "Apocalypse Now", and Hendrix played the perfect soundtrack for it. With the Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist gone, he put together an ad-hoc band which would fulfill the Woodstock contract; under-rehearsed and not really an organic musical unit, it did its best, which was far from what it could have been. Nevertheless, Hendrix and his musical genius were sp overwhelming, that the Woodstock performance still manages to stand out as an epic piece of Rock music. This album includes the complete Woodstock performance with the exception of two songs, which were purposely omitted, as they didn´t feature him as the leader, which is perhaps for the best. Is this still a valid piece of music in retrospect? Hell yes! It´s stunning, whichever way one looks at it, remaining as iconic now as it was then. Essential!

CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend

SIMON AND GARFUNKEL ~ BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER (40TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL EDITION) SONY 782829 (Barcode: 886978282927) ~ USA ~ Classic Pop Recorded: 1969 Released: 2011 There is really very little that needs to be said about this monumental Masterpiece, which in many respects is one of the most remarkable and enduring soundtracks of that era, which bloomed and exploded and was over in a blink of an eye, inspiring the entire human race for generations to come. Paul SimonFind albums by this artist´s brilliant songwriting, Art GarfunkelFind albums by this artist´s sublime voice and the duo´s perfect execution, with their heavenly vocal harmony and incredible sensitivity to both the music and the lyrics simply makes it all just click. This special edition brings us the remastered original album as well as an additional CD with live recording from the duo´s 1969 concert tour, which is breathtaking. And in addition the included DVD presents two documentaries: the superb "Songs Of America" from 1969, which was not available anywhere in the last 40 years as well as the new "The Harmony Game", which tells the story of making the album in 40 years retrospect. This is heaven on earth and such a kick! Beyond essential! Visitors' Comments Christopher  Brice This album was my amazed introduction to hi-fi stereo (instead of the leatherette-covered "portable" record player): Baby Driver certainly scared the cat dozing between the speakers! It´s great to have a high quality replacement for my aged LP and the live CD is a real bonus (I haven´t had time to pay attention to the DVD yet).

2CD+DVD 3 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER SONY 783007 (Barcode: 886978300720) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2011 This is the 1st album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. The group arrived on the scene a bit later than their "accomplices" (YesFind albums by this artist, GenesisFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist and others), since keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist / lead vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were already prominent members of early / proto Prog bands before the trio combined forces and merged into this formidable ensemble. They definitely were the best fit as far as the simplistic definition of Prog is concerned (i.e. an amalgam of Rock and Classical music), allowing Emerson to fulfill his fascination / obsession with Classical music pieces and even contribute some of his own music set to a similar (i.e. classical) framework. It also allowed Lake to write some of the most memorable Rock ballads and Palmer to beat the hell out of endless drum sets, all of which seemed to delight hordes of Rock (and I mean Rock as opposed to Prog) music listeners the world over. They were all monster musicians, they were at the top of their youthful peak of creativity and they kicked ass, big time! It was great while it lasted, and it did last for about half a decade and six albums, and the legend went sour when these gentlemen failed to realize that it´s over and pressed on, seemingly endlessly, damaging the image of their glorious achievements in the process. But in retrospect, wiser and older by 40 years, I still find this music fascinating and powerful, imaginative and bold, and above all artistically sound. Considering the fact that these recordings were off the market due to some corporate music industry bullshit, it´s great to see it back on the shelves, this time released by SonyFind albums on this label Music, which hopefully will keep them alive for a while.

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ TARKUS SONY 783008 (Barcode: 886978300829) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2011 This is the 2nd album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. The group arrived on the scene a bit later than their "accomplices" (YesFind albums by this artist, GenesisFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist and others), since keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist / lead vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were already prominent members of early / proto Prog bands before the trio combined forces and merged into this formidable ensemble. They definitely were the best fit as far as the simplistic definition of Prog is concerned (i.e. an amalgam of Rock and Classical music), allowing Emerson to fulfill his fascination / obsession with Classical music pieces and even contribute some of his own music set to a similar (i.e. classical) framework. It also allowed Lake to write some of the most memorable Rock ballads and Palmer to beat the hell out of endless drum sets, all of which seemed to delight hordes of Rock (and I mean Rock as opposed to Prog) music listeners the world over. They were all monster musicians, they were at the top of their youthful peak of creativity and they kicked ass, big time! It was great while it lasted, and it did last for about half a decade and six albums, and the legend went sour when these gentlemen failed to realize that it´s over and pressed on, seemingly endlessly, damaging the image of their glorious achievements in the process. But in retrospect, wiser and older by 40 years, I still find this music fascinating and powerful, imaginative and bold, and above all artistically sound. Considering the fact that these recordings were off the market due to some corporate music industry bullshit, it´s great to see it back on the shelves, this time released by SonyFind albums on this label Music, which hopefully will keep them alive for a while.

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION SONY 783011 (Barcode: 886978301123) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2011 This is the 3rd album (although recorded live and before the 2nd album and initially intended to be a bonus LP to be paired with the 2nd album) by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. The group arrived on the scene a bit later than their "accomplices" (YesFind albums by this artist, GenesisFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist and others), since keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist / lead vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were already prominent members of early / proto Prog bands before the trio combined forces and merged into this formidable ensemble. They definitely were the best fit as far as the simplistic definition of Prog is concerned (i.e. an amalgam of Rock and Classical music), allowing Emerson to fulfill his fascination / obsession with Classical music pieces and even contribute some of his own music set to a similar (i.e. classical) framework. It also allowed Lake to write some of the most memorable Rock ballads and Palmer to beat the hell out of endless drum sets, all of which seemed to delight hordes of Rock (and I mean Rock as opposed to Prog) music listeners the world over. They were all monster musicians, they were at the top of their youthful peak of creativity and they kicked ass, big time! It was great while it lasted, and it did last for about half a decade and six albums, and the legend went sour when these gentlemen failed to realize that it´s over and pressed on, seemingly endlessly, damaging the image of their glorious achievements in the process. But in retrospect, wiser and older by 40 years, I still find this music fascinating and powerful, imaginative and bold, and above all artistically sound. Considering the fact that these recordings were off the market due to some corporate music industry bullshit, it´s great to see it back on the shelves, this time released by SonyFind albums on this label Music, which hopefully will keep them alive for a while.

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ TRILOGY SONY 783012 (Barcode: 886978301222) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1972 Released: 2011 This is the 4th album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. The group arrived on the scene a bit later than their "accomplices" (YesFind albums by this artist, GenesisFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist and others), since keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist / lead vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were already prominent members of early / proto Prog bands before the trio combined forces and merged into this formidable ensemble. They definitely were the best fit as far as the simplistic definition of Prog is concerned (i.e. an amalgam of Rock and Classical music), allowing Emerson to fulfill his fascination / obsession with Classical music pieces and even contribute some of his own music set to a similar (i.e. classical) framework. It also allowed Lake to write some of the most memorable Rock ballads and Palmer to beat the hell out of endless drum sets, all of which seemed to delight hordes of Rock (and I mean Rock as opposed to Prog) music listeners the world over. They were all monster musicians, they were at the top of their youthful peak of creativity and they kicked ass, big time! It was great while it lasted, and it did last for about half a decade and six albums, and the legend went sour when these gentlemen failed to realize that it´s over and pressed on, seemingly endlessly, damaging the image of their glorious achievements in the process. But in retrospect, wiser and older by 40 years, I still find this music fascinating and powerful, imaginative and bold, and above all artistically sound. Considering the fact that these recordings were off the market due to some corporate music industry bullshit, it´s great to see it back on the shelves, this time released by SonyFind albums on this label Music, which hopefully will keep them alive for a while.

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ BRAIN SALAD SURGERY SONY 783013 (Barcode: 886978301321) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1973 Released: 2011 This is the 5th album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. The group arrived on the scene a bit later than their "accomplices" (YesFind albums by this artist, GenesisFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist and others), since keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist / lead vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were already prominent members of early / proto Prog bands before the trio combined forces and merged into this formidable ensemble. They definitely were the best fit as far as the simplistic definition of Prog is concerned (i.e. an amalgam of Rock and Classical music), allowing Emerson to fulfill his fascination / obsession with Classical music pieces and even contribute some of his own music set to a similar (i.e. classical) framework. It also allowed Lake to write some of the most memorable Rock ballads and Palmer to beat the hell out of endless drum sets, all of which seemed to delight hordes of Rock (and I mean Rock as opposed to Prog) music listeners the world over. They were all monster musicians, they were at the top of their youthful peak of creativity and they kicked ass, big time! It was great while it lasted, and it did last for about half a decade and six albums, and the legend went sour when these gentlemen failed to realize that it´s over and pressed on, seemingly endlessly, damaging the image of their glorious achievements in the process. But in retrospect, wiser and older by 40 years, I still find this music fascinating and powerful, imaginative and bold, and above all artistically sound. Considering the fact that these recordings were off the market due to some corporate music industry bullshit, it´s great to see it back on the shelves, this time released by SonyFind albums on this label Music, which hopefully will keep them alive for a while.

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ WELCOME BACK, MY FRIENDS, TO THE SHOW THAT NEVER ENDS SONY 783014 (Barcode: 886978301420) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 2011 This is the 6th album (recorded live during the 1973/74 world tour and released originally as a 3 LPs set, a summary of the glory days and the last great one) by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. The group arrived on the scene a bit later than their "accomplices" (YesFind albums by this artist, GenesisFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist and others), since keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist / lead vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were already prominent members of early / proto Prog bands before the trio combined forces and merged into this formidable ensemble. They definitely were the best fit as far as the simplistic definition of Prog is concerned (i.e. an amalgam of Rock and Classical music), allowing Emerson to fulfill his fascination / obsession with Classical music pieces and even contribute some of his own music set to a similar (i.e. classical) framework. It also allowed Lake to write some of the most memorable Rock ballads and Palmer to beat the hell out of endless drum sets, all of which seemed to delight hordes of Rock (and I mean Rock as opposed to Prog) music listeners the world over. They were all monster musicians, they were at the top of their youthful peak of creativity and they kicked ass, big time! It was great while it lasted, and it did last for about half a decade and six albums, and the legend went sour when these gentlemen failed to realize that it´s over and pressed on, seemingly endlessly, damaging the image of their glorious achievements in the process. But in retrospect, wiser and older by 40 years, I still find this music fascinating and powerful, imaginative and bold, and above all artistically sound. Considering the fact that these recordings were off the market due to some corporate music industry bullshit, it´s great to see it back on the shelves, this time released by SonyFind albums on this label Music, which hopefully will keep them alive for a while.

CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ WORKS VOLUME 1 SONY 784863 (Barcode: 886978486325) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1976 Released: 2011 This is the 7th album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. It marks the beginning of the second phase in the group´s career, which is often dismissed as extravagant and exhibitionist by critics and fans alike, but in retrospect produced some remarkable music overall. This album, which was originally released as a double LP, spotlights the three individual musicians, giving each of them a separate vinyl side with only the last 4th side included music made by the trio. Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, as usually obsessed with Classical music, presents his "Piano Concerto No. 1", Greg LakeFind albums by this artist the "romantic dreamer" produces several great ballads with lyrics written by ex-King CrimsonFind albums by this artist cohort Peter SinfieldFind albums by this artist and Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist comes up with more incredible drum pyrotechnics on his side. The trio side features more of the trio´s familiar mixture of Classical and Rock. Overall, excessive or not, this is still great music, any way wants to look at it (or listen to it), and the heck with the critics.

CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ WORKS VOLUME 2 SONY 784864 (Barcode: 886978486424) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1976 Released: 2011 This is the 8th album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. It marks the beginning of the second phase in the group´s career, which is often dismissed as extravagant and exhibitionist by critics and fans alike, but in retrospect produced some remarkable music overall. This album presents the "leftovers" from the 1976 sessions, which produced the massive "Works Volume 1Find albums with this title", but of course its contents has nothing to do with leftovers musically, as all of this material is still very strong. Ex-King CrimsonFind albums by this artist cohort Peter SinfieldFind albums by this artist provides the lyrics for most of the songs. Overall, excessive or not, this is still great music, any way wants to look at it (or listen to it), and the heck with the critics.

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ WORKS LIVE SONY 784865 (Barcode: 886978486523) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1977 Released: 2011 This is the 10th album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. It is a live recording documenting the band´s last grandeur tour with a massive symphonic orchestra and the result is quite magnificent. Originally released as a single vinyl album (in 1979 right after the group disbanded) it was later (1993) released as a double CD, presenting the full recording of the entire concert captured at the Olympic Stadium in Montreal, Canada. The material includes mostly music released on the "Works" album, with a few additions. This is a perfect document of Prog at its absolute peak in every sense.

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ LOVE BEACH SONY 784866 (Barcode: 886978486622) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1978 Released: 2011 This is the 9th album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. It is also the last album recorded by the band before they decided to disband, for the first but not the last time, closing up a decade of fabulous music-making. The album is often severely criticized and listed as the worst one ever recorded by the trio, but honestly and in retrospect, it is not that much different from the band´s earlier material and although perhaps less inspired that the earlier material, still much better than what was played by their contemporaries. The album definitely deserves to be in every collection of the numerous faithful fans of the band.

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ BLACK MOON SONY 784868 (Barcode: 886978486820) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1991 Released: 2011 This is the 11th album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. This album marks the group´s first re-union 12 years after it disbanded for the first time. A fresh set of songs, performed with the usual skill and power, serves as an excellent reminder of the glory days in the 1970s, sounding completely relevant today, 20 years later. These musicians are still able to outplay any of the youngsters on the scene at the time, as the live album and film "Live At The Royal Albert HallFind albums with this title" proves. Definitely worth having!

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ IN THE HOT SEAT SONY 784869 (Barcode: 886978486929) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1993 Released: 2011 This is the 12th album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. This album marks the group´s first re-union 12 years after it disbanded for the first time and was the second album recorded at the time and (so far) the last studio album by the group. A fresh set of songs, performed with the usual skill and power, serves as an excellent reminder of the glory days in the 1970s, sounding completely relevant today, 20 years later!

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

HOT TUNA ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886919012828 (Barcode: 886919012828) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 - 1976 Released: 2011 This great Box Set collects five early albums by the great American group Hot TunaFind albums by this artist, a Jefferson AirplaneFind albums by this artist offshoot, created by guitarist Jorma KaukonenFind albums by this artist and bassist Jack CasadyFind albums by this artist. The group was strongly Blues influenced / oriented, much more so than Jefferson Airplane, and it provided Kaukonen and Casady with an opportunity to play music they loved and played before joining the group. In time the group developed its own identity and is now one of the oldest existing acts still performing today. This box includes the early albums: "Hot TunaFind albums with this title", "BurgersFind albums with this title", "The Phosphorescent RatFind albums with this title", "America`s ChoiceFind albums with this title" and "HoppkorvFind albums with this title". Remastered, with bonus tracks and packaged in mini-sleeved album replicas and with a super-low price tag this is an offer nobody should be resistant to!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

LOVIN` SPOONFUL ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886919013627 (Barcode: 886919013627) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1965 - 1969 Released: 2011 This great Box Set brings together the almost complete output by the great American early Rock band The Lovin` SpoonfulFind albums by this artist. Formed in 1965 by two ex-folkies John SebastianFind albums by this artist and Zal YanovskyFind albums by this artist the group turned into one of the best American acts, which perfected the use of vocal harmonies and superb songwriting and created some of the best music in the late 1960s. Although often overlooked, in retrospective this is beautiful music, which deserves to be present on the pedestal of Classic Rock. The five albums: "Do You Believe In MagicFind albums with this title", "DaydreamFind albums with this title", "Hums Of The Lovin` SpoonfulFind albums with this title", "Everything PlayingFind albums with this title" and "Revelation: Revolution 69Find albums with this title" are simply delightful and every music lover will surely enjoy listening to them again. Remastered, with bonus track, mini-sleeved and with a great price tag this is a true bargain. Classic stuff!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

SHUGGIE OTIS ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886919017823 (Barcode: 886919017823) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1970 - 1973 Released: 2011 This great Box Set collects all three albums recorded for the EpicFind albums on this label label by the young Blues prodigy Shuggie OtisFind albums by this artist, mostly known as a great Blues guitarist. Discovered by Al KooperFind albums by this artist at the age of 17, Otis recorded an album with Kooper called "Kooper SessionFind albums with this title" and later on followed with the three solo recordings included here: "Here Comes Shuggie OtisFind albums with this title", "Freedom FlightFind albums with this title" and "Inspiration InformationFind albums with this title". For reasons unknown Otis disappeared from the scene completely following the recording of his third album, in spite of his enormous talent as multi-instrumentalist, composer and vocalist. These albums are a part of the great legacy of electric Blues (the first two albums) and Psychedelic Soul / Funk (last album) and are an absolute must to every Blues enthusiast. Remastered and packages in mini-sleeved album replicas and with a super-low price tag this is an offer nobody should be resistant to!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

SARAH VAUGHAN ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886919058727 (Barcode: 886919058727) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1949 - 1987 Released: 2012 American singer Sarah VaughanFind albums by this artist was undoubtedly one of the brightest stars of the female vocal Jazz scene, a member of a very limited legendary league, which includes but a few others. Her absolutely unique style, an amazing vocal range from female baritone to mezzo-soprano and a highly personal interpretation of the material she performed remain largely unmatched to this very day. She is a major influence as far as Jazz vocals are considered and many vocalists name her as their major source of inspiration. She is often referred to as a Jazz diva, a title earned but very few other female Jazz personalities. During her career, which lasted for over five decades, Vaughan recorded an impressive body of work, released by several record labels. Strangely enough her association with ColumbiaFind albums on this label covers the early days (1949-1953) of her recording career, as well as her final recordings in the 1980s. Her entire recorded output is collected on four CDs, the first two dedicated to the early recording sessions and the other two to her late output: the live recording of the George GershwinFind albums by this artist and Ira GershwinFind albums by this artist songbook, which was recorded with the Los Angeles Philharmonic conducted by Michel Tilson ThomasFind albums by this artist and her very last album, which included Brazilian music she was so fond of, which was produced by Sergio MendesFind albums by this artist and featured a sublime cast of musicians, including keyboardist George DukeFind albums by this artist (another Brazilian music enthusiast), guitarist / composer Dorival CaymmiFind albums by this artist and guest vocals by Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist on one track. This last album was recorded just three years before Vaughan died in 1990. The contrast between the sessions, recorded almost four decades apart, is a wonderful perspective, which enables the listen to truly appreciate the greatness of Vaughan´s abilities. The Box Set is a great document, which should be enjoyed by every Jazz connoisseur, and of course vocal Jazz enthusiast. Marvelous stuff!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

ETTA JAMES ~ THE COMPLETE PRIVATE MUSIC BLUES, ROCK `N` SOUL ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886919058925 (Barcode: 886919058925) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1994 - 2004 Released: 2012 Recently deceased American vocalist Etta JamesFind albums by this artist enjoyed a career stretching over half a century and the whole range of musical genres from Pop, Soul, Rhythm And Blues, Blues and Jazz. Her career suffered from the problems she had in her personal life, which is often the case with musicians, but she was undoubtedly one of the top American female singers with and incredible voice, superb sensitivity and unbelievable versatility. The six albums collected here, which she recorded for the Private MusicFind albums on this label label during the last decade and a half of her life, are primary Blues oriented and showcase her incredible kinship with the genre, which results in some of the most memorable Blues recordings. Supported by an excellent band featuring great guitar players and a brass section, she revisits many Blues classic as well as presents new material penned especially for her. For Blues enthusiasts this is definitely an absolute gem. This Box Set includes also a bonus CD with a live concert recorded in 1981, which is more mainstream oriented. The other Etta James Private Music recordings, which are Jazz oriented, are supposed to be reissued in a separate Box Set. This is definitely a beautiful tribute to one of the most distinctive American voices, which derives to be remembered and cherished by future generations of music lovers. A true classic!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted:

CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

BLUE OYSTER CULT ~ THE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886919363425 (Barcode: 886919363425) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1971 - 1988 Released: 2012 This excellent Box Set includes remastered and expanded versions of the fourteen albums released by the American Rock band Blue Oyster CultFind albums by this artist for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label between 1972 and 1988 and adds a whole CD of rarities and another CD of live radio broadcasts and finally a DVD capturing the band in 1978 at the peak of their popularity. Although initially considered as the American answer to the British Hard Rock / Heavy Metal pioneers Black SabbathFind albums by this artist, the band proved to take a direction of their own, which initially was closer to Progressive Rock than Heavy Metal. Fronted by a charismatic singer Eric BloomFind albums by this artist, who also played guitar and featuring a double lead guitar (Donald RoeserFind albums by this artist and Allen LanierFind albums by this artist, who also played keyboards) instrumental capacity with a support of the excellent rhythm section consisting of brothers Joe BouchardFind albums by this artist (bass) and Albert BouchardFind albums by this artist (drums) the band was at the time one of the strongest and most ambitious American outfits on the scene. This steady lineup kept together for almost a decade and proved to be prolific and highly attractive as a live act. The band´s first three albums, often called the "black and white trinity" (due to the album´s covers) are absolute classics of American Rock with ambitious excursions into Zappaesque territory and other quite adventurous ventures. The next period, which lasted until the end of the 1970s, saw the band to turn into a Hard Rock outfit, producing a series of solid album, which brought them huge commercial success and as a result also tumultuous endless touring. The last period, which continued into the 1980s, saw first personnel changes in the group´s lineup and produced several more albums, which failed to achieve the same level of musical excellence as before, gradually turning into pretty mundane output. In retrospect this Box Set is a splendid document of the American Rock scene during the 1970s and 1980s, spotlighting one of the best bands active at the time. It is both worth revisiting by old fans and discovered by younger listeners, who never heard about the band in real time. Recommended!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD+DVD 17 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ TARKUS (DELUXE EDITION) SONY 886919379624 (Barcode: 886919379624) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2012 This is the second album by the British supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, one of the great pioneering Prog outfits, which achieved wide popularity way beyond the Prog genre, being also one of the most popular Rock bands in the 1970s. Keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were superb musicians and their cooperation created some of the finest Prog moments, which are everlasting. It would be truly superfluous to write anything more about this album, as it already is a commonly accepted masterpiece and universally acclaimed milestone of Prog in particular and Rock in general. So let´s talk about this specific new edition and its valor or lack of thereof. This edition comprises of two CDs and a DVD-A. The first CD is the original remastered stereo mix of the album, which was released by SonyFind albums on this label a year earlier. The second CD is a new stereo mix, called the "alternate" album, which is based on the existing master tapes. It adds just three previously unheard pieces, which are two new tunes and one alternate version of an existing tune. The DVD-A includes the 5.1 surround sound mixes of the original album (with just one bonus) and a hi-res stereo (what the hell is this?) version of the entire material on the second CD. Confused? I´m not surprised… All the additional material, i.e. the second CD and the DVD-A were created by Steven WilsonFind albums by this artist, leader of Porcupine TreeFind albums by this artist and in recent years quite a busy "studio wizard", creating new re-mixes of many classic Rock (and Prog) masterpieces, like this one. So what do we have here?; a superb classic album and two additional pieces of plastic containing very little new material, which should have been added as bonus tracks on the a.m. remastered edition of this album. Seriously, who listens to music in 5.1 surround sound anyway? What was the word we used to have for this kind of releases? Oh yes, rip-off! Mr. Wilson, please leave those great classic masterpieces alone and go back to you own music, in the audio format of your choice…

2CD+DVD 3 Digipak DVD-A Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER (DELUXE EDITION) SONY 886919379723 (Barcode: 886919379723) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2012 This is the debut eponymous album by the British supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, one of the great pioneering Prog outfits, which achieved wide popularity way beyond the Prog genre, being also one of the most popular Rock bands in the 1970s. Keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were superb musicians and their cooperation created some of the finest Prog moments, which are everlasting. It would be truly superfluous to write anything more about this album, as it already is a commonly accepted masterpiece and universally acclaimed milestone of Prog in particular and Rock in general. So let´s talk about this specific new edition and its valor or lack of thereof. This edition comprises of two CDs and a DVD-A. The first CD is the original remastered stereo mix of the album, which was released by SonyFind albums on this label a year earlier. The second CD is a new stereo mix, called the "alternate" album, which is based on the existing master tapes. It lacks three tracks of the original album, (the master tapes of which are missing), but adds several new previously unheard pieces, which are either new tunes or alternate versions of existing tunes. The DVD-A includes the 5.1 surround sound mixes of the original album (less the missing tracks) and a hi-res stereo (what the hell is this?) version of the entire material on the second CD. Confused? I´m not surprised… All the additional material, i.e. the second CD and the DVD-A were created by Steven WilsonFind albums by this artist, leader of Porcupine TreeFind albums by this artist and in recent years quite a busy "studio wizard", creating new re-mixes of many classic Rock (and Prog) masterpieces, like this one. So what do we have here?; a superb classic album and two additional pieces of plastic containing very little new material, which should have been added as bonus tracks on the a.m. remastered edition of this album. Seriously, who listens to music in 5.1 surround sound anyway? What was the word we used to have for this kind of releases? Oh yes, rip-off! Mr. Wilson, please leave those great classic masterpieces alone and go back to you own music, in the audio format of your choice…

2CD+DVD 3 Digipak DVD-A Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

WEATHER REPORT ~ THE COLUMBIA ALBUMS 1971-1975 SONY 886919934229 (Barcode: 886919934229) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 1971 - 1975 Released: 2012 It is almost impossible to imagine contemporary music in general and Jazz in particular without the contribution made by Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, one of the most eminent, pioneering and revolutionary ensembles that ever existed. In the decade and a half that the band recorded and performed music together, they managed to set an example to entire generations of musicians, changing the face of music as we know it. From day one Weather Report was different. Although it is considered an American band, in fact it included at any given time of its existence more members that were not American-born than those that were. They band´s basic concept was different from everything that was a standard at the time and put forward collective improvisation and multicultural musical approach rather than the standard theme followed by individual solos approach. Also the band kept constantly evolving, frequently changing lineups, styles and sound, totally unpredictable and free of any conventions. Weather Report was formed by two musical friends, who knew each other for quite a while before their individual careers allowed them to join forces and make music together. Austrian-born keyboardist / composer Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and American saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist had both paid their dues in top Jazz ensembles of the 1960s, most importantly both playing in the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist revolutionary ensemble of the "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" period. Joined by the Czech-born bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist, the original band was born, with American drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist and Brazilian-born percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. The double drums / percussion team would be kept throughout the entire history of the band, with just one brief period when the lineup was just a quartet. During the first five years of its existence Weather Report recorded six albums, including the live double LP, which was initially only released in Japan, all of which are included in this magnificent Box Set. The bonus tracks are taken from the two compilation albums: "Forecast: TomorrowFind albums with this title" and "Live And UnreleasedFind albums with this title", which were released in the 2000s. Vitous left the band at the end of this period, playing only on one track of the last album in this Box Set, which marked the end of the first phase of the band, which would soon enter a new phase when Jaco Pastorius joined Weather Report, a phase which is documented by the other Box Set of Weather Report albums called "The Columbia Albums 1976-1982Find albums with this title". This Box Set is not only a holy grail of contemporary music, but also a sublime document of the music itself going through a perpetual change and transition. It is beyond recommendation, as its place on the pedestal of contemporary canon was already established long before these lines were written. Essential stuff!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

CARLOS SANTANA ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886976260620 (Barcode: 886976260620) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1974 - 1980 Released: 2010 This Box Set collects reissues of three studio albums by the iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist, originally released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label between 1974 and 1980. They are: “IlluminationsFind albums with this title” (1974), “Oneness: Silver Dreams - Golden RealtyFind albums with this title” (1979) and “The Swing Of DelightFind albums with this title” (1980). All three were released under Santana’s Sanskrit name Devadip Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist given to him by Sri ChinmoyFind albums by this artist. These three albums followed Carlos Santana’s debut solo album recorded in collaboration with guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist entitled “Love Devotion SurrenderFind albums with this title” (1973). “Illuminations” is a collaboration with pianist / harpist Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist, the wife of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. SantanaFind albums by this artist (the group) keyboardist Tom CosterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Armando PerazaFind albums by this artist play on the album and Coster also co-composed three of the tracks. Jazz musicians: bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and several others take part in the recording, as well as a large string section conducted by Alice Coltrane, who wrote the arrangements and co-composed one the tracks. A short chant by Chinmoy is the album’s opening track. “Oneness: Silver Dreams - Golden Realty” presents fifteen relatively short compositions, most composed by Carlos Santana and is performed by a large group of musicians, including many Santana (the group) members. The first six tracks were recorded live and the rest were recorded in the studio. “The Swing Of Delight”, originally a double LP, presents nine compositions performed by a large group of top Jazz musicians, including Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist, Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and many others. These three albums together with the a.m. “Love Devotion Surrender” album present some of the most spiritual and deeply Jazz influenced music that Carlos Santana created during his long-lasting career. The mixture of Indian spirituality, which he shared with many Jazz musicians at the time, and extensive / hypnotic Jazz improvisations are in retrospect some of his best achievements, and deserve to be cherished and remembered. Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 13/09/2021Posted: 13/09/2021

CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend

SPIRIT ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886976469825 (Barcode: 886976469825) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1967 - 1972 Released: 2010 This excellent Box Set includes the first five studio albums, recorded between 1968 and 1972 and released on the EpicFind albums on this label label, by the great US Prog group SpiritFind albums by this artist: "SpiritFind albums with this title", "The Family That Plays TogetherFind albums with this title", "ClearFind albums with this title", "The Twelve Dreams Of Doctor SardonicusFind albums with this title" and "FeedbackFind albums with this title". Spirit was one America´s best early Psychedelic Rock / Prog groups with great songwriting talents and excellent players on board. These albums have lost absolutely nothing of their beauty and sophistication over the years. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the price tag of a double album this is a tremendous bargain as well. Essential! Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 05/02/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

LAURA NYRO ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886976469924 (Barcode: 886976469924) ~ USA ~ Classic Pop Recorded: 1968 - 1976 Released: 2010 This excellent Box Set includes the first five studio albums, recorded between 1968 and 1976 and released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, by the great US Singer / songwriter Laura NyroFind albums by this artist: "Eli And The Thirteenth ConfessionFind albums with this title", "New York TendaberryFind albums with this title", "Christmas And The Beads Of SweatFind albums with this title", "Gonna Take A MiracleFind albums with this title" and "SmileFind albums with this title". Nyro is one the America´s most sensible and talented songwriters and a great singer herself, but her songs were performed by a plethora of other artists, winning them many chart hits. The material is gorgeous and everlasting. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the price tag of a double album this is a tremendous bargain as well. Essential!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

MOUNTAIN ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886976470227 (Barcode: 886976470227) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 - 1974 Released: 2010 This excellent Box Set includes the first five studio albums, recorded between 1970 and 1974 and released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, by the great US Rock group MountainFind albums by this artist: "Climbing!Find albums with this title", "Nantucket SleighrideFind albums with this title", "Flowers Of EvilFind albums with this title", "Twin PeaksFind albums with this title" and "AvalancheFind albums with this title". Mountain was the American answer to the British super-group CreamFind albums by this artist. The band´s bassist Felix PappalardiFind albums by this artist was the producer of Cream´s albums. The band´s guitarist Leslie WestFind albums by this artist is one of the greatest Rock and Rock-Blues players of all times. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the price tag of a double album this is a tremendous bargain as well. Essential!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

JOHNNY WINTER ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886976561727 (Barcode: 886976561727) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1969 - 1974 Released: 2010 This excellent Box Set includes four studio albums and one live album, recorded between 1969 and 1974 and released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, by the great US Blues-Rock guitarist Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist: "Johnny WinterFind albums with this title", "Second WinterFind albums with this title", "And LiveFind albums with this title", "Still Alive And WellFind albums with this title" and "Saints & SinnersFind albums with this title". Winter is one of the greatest Blues and Blues-Rock guitarist of all times and these early recordings are superb examples of his talent. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the price tag of a double album this is a tremendous bargain as well. Essential!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

JEFF BECK ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS VOL.2 SONY 886976605124 (Barcode: 886976605124) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1980 - 2000 Released: 2010 This Box Set collects reissues of five albums by the legendary British guitarist / composer / bandleader Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, originally released on the EpicFind albums on this label label between 1980 and 2001. They are: “There & BackFind albums with this title” (1980), “FlashFind albums with this title” (1985), “Jeff Beck`s Guitar ShopFind albums with this title” (1989), “Who Else!Find albums with this title” (1999) and “You Had It ComingFind albums with this title” (2001). Those are the third, fourth, fifth, seventh and eighth solo studio albums recorded by Jeff Beck. The soundtrack “Frankie`s HouseFind albums with this title” (1992 with Jed LeiberFind albums by this artist), as well as the sixth album “Crazy LegsFind albums with this title” (1993) are missing in this Box Set, as usual for unexplained reasons. The “Flash” album includes a couple of bonus tracks not present on the original album. The musicians playing on these albums include some of the best players, both in the UK and USA, such as keyboardists Jan HammerFind albums by this artist and Tony HymasFind albums by this artist, bassists Mo FosterFind albums by this artist and Doug WimbishFind albums by this artist, drummers Simon PhillipsFind albums by this artist, Carmine AppiceFind albums by this artist and Terry BozzioFind albums by this artist and many, many others. Musically Beck flirts on these albums with diverse environments, such as Jazz-Rock Fusion, Pop and Rock. Except for the “Flash” album, which features vocal contributions by Beck and other guests, including Rod StewartFind albums by this artist on one track, the rest of the material is mostly instrumental and displays Beck´s guitar pyrotechnics at their full scale. Overall, this is a real treat to all guitar fans and a great showcase of Beck’s undeniable talent as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 03/09/2021Posted: 03/09/2021

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

JEFF BECK ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS VOL.2 SONY 886976605124 (Barcode: 886976605124) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1980 - 2000 Released: 2010 This excellent Box Set includes five studio albums, recorded between 1980 and 2000 and released on the EpicFind albums on this label label, by the great British Rock guitarist Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist: "There And BackFind albums with this title", "FlashFind albums with this title", "Jeff Beck`s Guitar ShopFind albums with this title", "Who Else!Find albums with this title" and "You Had It ComingFind albums with this title". Back is one of the greatest Rock guitar players / composers of all times and his performances in the diverse sub-genres of Rock are always ingenious and brilliant. Although often criticized and misunderstood, his technique is star quality as is his unique feel for his music. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the price tag of a double album this is a tremendous bargain as well. Highly recommended!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

HERBIE HANCOCK ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUM COLLECTION 1972-1988 SONY 886977240829 (Barcode: 886977240829) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1972 - 1988 Released: 2013 This monumental Box Set (31 albums, 3 of which are double CDs) presents the recording legacy of American keyboardist / composer / bandleader Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist during his most productive and groundbreaking two decades, in which his albums were released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label (and SonyFind albums on this label in Japan). Columbia was Hancock´s third record label; his initial recording career (1962-1969) was spent with the legendary Blue NoteFind albums on this label label, where he recorded a series of brilliant and pioneering albums as a leader and dozens of albums as a sideman, many of which are considered as part of the canon of Jazz recordings. After a short period of recording for the Warner Bros.Find albums on this label label (1969-1972) he signed with Columbia, which was quite natural considering that Hancock was a member of the second legendary Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintet (1963-1969) and took part in many projects Davis led after the quintet disbanded, all of which were recorded for Columbia. Several of the albums in this box, which were originally released only in Japan, make their appearance outside of Japan for the first time. The content of this Box Set emphasizes the incredible musical versatility and truly chameleonic nature of Hancock as an Artist. He plays in many settings, from solo keyboards, duos (with Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist for example), trios (with Ron CarterFind albums by this artist and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist) and ensembles like the pioneering Jazz-Funk Headhunters or the incredible V.S.O.P.Find albums by this artist quintet, which followed in the steps of the second Miles Davis quintet, with trumpeter Freddie HubbardFind albums by this artist replacing Davis and the rest of the players being the original quintet members. It also shows Hancock as a composer of soundtracks ("Death Wish" and "Round Midnight") and his affiliation with World Music. Musically the box covers an incredibly wide cross-genre musical plateau, covering such varied areas as modern Mainstream, Jazz-Rock Fusion, Jazz-Funk Fusion, Jazz-Soul Fusion, electronic and ambient music, orchestral music, Jazz-Classical Fusion and any other. Hancock´s exceptional talent as a composer is exposed here in the fullest and confirms his status as one of the most influential and revolutionary Jazz musician ever. His skills as a player are of course completely unparalleled and have served as a model for generations of young musicians all over the world. It wouldn´t be an exaggeration to state that this box contains some of the most important Jazz recordings made to date and as a legacy its value is absolutely priceless and unique. It is of course worth every penny of this reasonably priced and beautifully packaged Box Set, even if one owns some of these albums separately already. Grab the box and give the older versions to your friends; they will surely be grateful and thank you. This is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history, music history and human Cultural legacy, which is way beyond recommendation. Simply a must!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 34 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

BOB DYLAN ~ THE ORIGINAL MONO RECORDINGS SONY 886977610424 (Barcode: 886977610424) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1961 - 1967 Released: 2010 Half a century ago, in the early 1960s, music was going through a period of rapid and revolutionary change, a complete metamorphosis in fact, with brilliant new ideas and bold steps into the unknown and the unprecedented happening almost instantly, and new directions, genres and sounds being born on the fly. However, the sound technology, which was the tool used to capture and then reproduce music was moving at a much slower pace. It took almost a decade for the vinyl LP, which was introduced in 1948, to become the de facto industry standard. Similarly the stereo sound, initially introduced in 1958, also took almost a decade to become the industry standard. Therefore, most of the music released in the early to mid 1960s was in fact recorded, mixed and manufactured in the mono format, with later recordings available in separate mono or stereo versions, until the mono format was eventually dropped completely. The original mono versions were later electronically transferred to stereo, creating the so called "fake stereo" effect. Now, half a century later, many music and sound connoisseurs wish to hear the music of that period as it was originally recorded and intended to be heard, i.e. in the mono format, which in turn gave birth to a new trend of original mono format reissues, which is quite popular among the "insiders" of the record collecting niche. This magnificent Box Set is a result of the "mono craze", but of course it is much more than just a nostalgia trip. It includes the first eight albums recorded by singer / poet / prophet Bob DylanFind albums by this artist, who singlehandedly not only revolutionized music, as we know it, but also stirred up the American morality, shaking the often false foundations, upon it was based. Dylan "invented" Rock, by electrifying American Folk, for which he was bitterly criticized and treated as a "traitor". But the young generation, which was about to become "Flower Children" and later the angry, outraged post-Woodstock anti-establishment generation came into being because of his prophetic, bitter and profoundly accurate poetry, which is all heard here, on these albums. There is no other singular representative of the American People, who made such an intense impact on American culture and morality, as documented herein. These eight albums, starting from the eponymous 1961 release and ending with the 1967 "John Wesley HardingFind albums with this title" are all masterpieces and together present a magnificent piece of history of human culture. They present a gradual development from the pure acoustic Folk music, which Dylan with his voice, guitar and harmonica brought to perfection, into a full electric Rock ensembles, which featured the genius of keyboardist Al KooperFind albums by this artist and guitarists Mike BloomfieldFind albums by this artist and Robbie RobertsonFind albums by this artist (the latter member of The BandFind albums by this artist, which was Dylan´s touring band at the time). This is music history in the making. But of course there are also the words, the lyrics, the poems, which at the time were cutting through the American (as well as World) conscience, rising questions never before asked. Many of these questions remain unanswered to this vey day… I can not imagine any true Homo Sapiens not having these albums as part of his cultural diet. By hey, the world is moving on, getting stupider by the minute, so I suppose considerably fewer people listen to this music today than half a century ago. O tempora o mores!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

AL DI MEOLA ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886977761829 (Barcode: 886977761829) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1976 - 1981 Released: 2010 This excellent Box Set includes five albums, recorded between 1976 and 1981 and released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, by the great US guitarist / composer Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist: "Land Of The Midnight SunFind albums with this title", "Elegant GypsyFind albums with this title", "CasinoFind albums with this title", "Splendido HotelFind albums with this title" and "Electric RendezvousFind albums with this title". Al Di Meola is one of the most talented and versatile US musicians with a career spanning over four decades. His early Jazz-Rock Fusion recordings and later Jazz-World Fusion albums are always a display of great talent and imagination. These albums were recorded at the beginning of his solo career when Di Meola re-invented Fusion guitar virtuosity at a level previously unknown. These albums have lost absolutely nothing of their beauty and sophistication over the years. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the price tag of a double album this is a tremendous bargain as well. Essential!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

GEORGE DUKE ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886977798825 (Barcode: 886977798825) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1977 - 1979 Released: 2010 This excellent Box Set includes five albums, recorded between 1977 and 1979 and released on the EpicFind albums on this label label, by the great US keyboardist / composer George DukeFind albums by this artist: "From Me To YouFind albums with this title", "Reach For ItFind albums with this title", "Don`t Let GoFind albums with this title", "Follow The RainbowFind albums with this title" and "A Brazilian Love AffairFind albums with this title". George Duke is one of the most talented and versatile US musicians with a career spanning over five decades. His early Jazz recordings and later Jazz-Rock Fusion and Funk albums are always a display of great talent and imagination. These albums were recorded at a time when Duke re-invented Funk and mixed it very effectively with Jazz and Fusion. These albums have lost absolutely nothing of their beauty and sophistication over the years. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the price tag of a double album this is a tremendous bargain as well.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

SOFT MACHINE ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886977814426 (Barcode: 886977814426) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene Recorded: 1970 - 1973 Released: 2010 This excellent Box Set includes five albums, recorded between 1970 and 1973 and released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, by the great British group Soft MachineFind albums by this artist: "ThirdFind albums with this title", "FourthFind albums with this title", "FifthFind albums with this title", "SixFind albums with this title" and "SevenFind albums with this title". Soft Machine was one of the most revolutionary and visionary music ensembles in music history and these albums are an absolute "Holy Grail" for every Progressive Rock, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz fan on this planet. Full of brilliant compositions and extraordinary performances, these albums have lost absolutely nothing of their beauty and sophistication over the years. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the price tag of a double album this is a tremendous bargain as well. Essential!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

JANIS JOPLIN ~ THE PEARL SESSIONS SONY 886978422422 (Barcode: 886978422422) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2012 We all love to bitch how the Major record labels are ripping us off by releasing the same material again and again in a slightly different packaging. Although this release might be considered by some as one of those cases, especially in view of the "Pearl (Legacy Edition)Find albums with this title", released not so long ago, in fact it shouldn´t be, as it brings a plethora of previously unreleased material (a whole CD worth of it), which is simply sensational. Considering the fact that Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist was the absolutely best white American singer of the 1960s every piece of archival material, especially of such high quality as the studio stuff from the "Pearl" sessions included here, is worth its weight in pure gold. I have written extensively about Joplin, her life and Art and the tragic waste she represents more than any other victim of the conflict between the Person and the Artists, which can be devastating; so let´s see what is new on this 2CD edition. The first CD includes the original posthumously released "Pearl" alum in its full glory. In addition the mono versions of some of the album´s tracks, which were released as singles, are also present. The second CD includes mostly material recorded in the studio during the recording sessions in July and September 1970: pieces of conversation between Janis and the members of Full Tilt Boogie BandFind albums by this artist and legendary producer Paul RothchildFind albums by this artist, different takes and false starts, all these living documents of the artistic process called "making an album", which the listener is usually completely unaware of. In addition a couple of live tracks are also included. Song after song, take after take Joplin is singing her heart out, with power, conviction and that great natural talent, which was simply unparalleled at the time and stayed as such for posterity. This album is much more than a historic document of an era and a portrait of an Artist; it is a superb and masterful piece of music, which deserves to be heard again and again. Since the legacy Janis left is so criminally small, an addition like this is absolutely priceless and every serious Joplin fan will definitely grab it immediately as will most Classic Rock fans. On the other hand we are a dying breed, so who knows. I certainly don´t mind to be ripped off in this case!

Updated: 26/08/2020Posted:

CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ THE PERFECT BLUES COLLECTION SONY 886978478320 (Barcode: 886978478320) ~ USA ~ Blues Recorded: 1923 - 2004 Released: 2011 I usually don´t like collections of this sort, but honestly this one is quite exceptional. It was compiled by Sony MusicFind albums on this label for the French market by French Blues enthusiasts and one must raise the hat to those Frenchmen, they simply have more taste than most, especially Americans. The compilation consists of 25 remastered original albums, mini-sleeved, in a cardboard box. It covers the many faces and shapes of the Blues between 1920s and 2000s, proving not only the enormous versatility of the music, but beyond all the overwhelming influence Blues had on all other music genres between Jazz and Rock. The sources include not only the usual ColumbiaFind albums on this label vaults, but also the French VogueFind albums on this label label and several others, to give a comprehensive story of the genre. The albums are presented chronologically by the release date, which in some cases is not exactly parallel to the recording date, but overall the story of the Blues is presented in whole. The list of the artists is truly stellar and includes the most important Blues artists, who shaped the music. Considering that almost all of these albums are impossible to find separately and the incredible price tag, this is one hell of a bargain! A must!

CD 25 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886978666222 (Barcode: 886978666222) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1970 - 1997 Released: 2011 This great Box Set combines three live albums by Prog Giants Emerson, Lake and PalmerFind albums by this artist: "Live At The Isle Of Wight Festival 1970Find albums with this title" which was the bands first recording and is a transitional document between the legacy of Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist´s work with The NiceFind albums by this artist and the amalgamation of the new group, "Live At The Royal Albert HallFind albums with this title" (1992) documents the group´s first reunion and "Live In PolandFind albums by this artist" (1997) their second reunion. All three albums are superb examples of the virtuosity of these great musicians and showcase their excellent compositions, which are undeniably some of Prog´s most impressive achievements. A must!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend

LEONARD COHEN ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886978718426 (Barcode: 886978718426) ~ CANADA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1967 - 2009 Released: 2011 America didn´t really need another Jewish Prophet… Zimmerman created enough mayhem as it was, protesting out loud, corrupting the youth and what have you. Just look what happened: the god-fearing American Folk music went electric and turned into Rock, to be followed by the Summer Of Love and later Woodstock! Sodom and Gomorrah! And on top of all this another Jewish poet / singer / songwriter arrives from the north and adds oil to the fire… The connection between Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist and Bob DylanFind albums by this artist is obvious; they both deal often with the same subject matter and similar modus operandi, cleverly crafting revolutionary ideology and dressing it up with music. In many respects Cohen arrived on the scene just after Dylan peaked, and whereas Dylan never managed to recreate the golden era of his youth, Cohen aged well, continuously producing new albums, which were always up to date, both musically and intellectually. These collected recordings are a staggering monument presenting Cohen´s talent. Everybody knows some of his songs, which in time became timeless anthems, but listening to these sixteen (one double) albums chronologically and in full is a true mind-blowing experience. He is a Prophet, a Sage and a great Artist indeed and what is amazing is the simplicity and honesty of his artistic way, devoid of any trickery (studio or otherwise), with minimal orchestration and shunning unnecessary camouflage, just straight to the point riding on the strength of his expressive vocals and heartfelt melodies. In retrospect Cohen is a symbol of minimalism at its most effective. Of course the "completeness" status of this Box Set has been undermined by the fact that Cohen released already two additional studio albums, after this Box Set was assembled and released: the 2012 "Old IdeasFind albums with this title" and the 2014 "Popular ProblemsFind albums with this title" and two live albums. Future edition of this Box Set might rectify this hitch. This Box Set is a capsule of good taste, healthy mind and aesthetic symbolism of a time, none of which are to be found today anywhere. An absolute must and an essential piece of what we (still) call Culture, which is disappearing as these words are being written…

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 18 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA ~ THE CLASSIC ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886978732620 (Barcode: 886978732620) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 - 1986 Released: 2011 This brilliant Box Set presents all eleven classic albums recorded by the Electric Light OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a. k. a. ELO), one of Britain´s most eclectic and sophisticated Pop / Rock / Prog ensembles. The group was formed about 1970 by three members of the legendary group The MoveFind albums by this artist: vocalist / keyboardist / composer Jeff LynneFind albums by this artist, vocalist / multi-instrumentalist / composer Roy WoodFind albums by this artist and drummer Bev BevanFind albums by this artist, developed around the original idea of a "Rock group with strings", but nobody anticipated the incredible body of work and international success the group was headed for. Wood left after the first two albums, but Lynne continued to lead the group and compose some amazing music for it for over fifteen years. In retrospect the band invented a plethora of new approaches to Popular music, adding elements from Classical, Rock and Jazz, spiced with typical British humor and fruitful imagination, as well as musical excellence. Even when the group achieved commercial success, their music never compromised the standards of excellence. Remastered, with many bonus tracks, mini-sleeved and reasonably priced, this Box Set is a must to people who know how to savor their music!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

KANSAS ~ THE CLASSIC ALBUMS COLLECTION 1974-1983 SONY 886978732729 (Barcode: 886978732729) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1974 - 1983 Released: 2011 This wonderful Box Set collects all the ten albums recorded by the original lineup of the US Prog band KansasFind albums by this artist during the decade this lineup existed. The band was led by guitarist / songwriter Kerry LivgrenFind albums by this artist, who wrote most of the band´s material and included also violinist / singer Robby SteinhardtFind albums by this artist, keyboardist / vocalist Steve WalshFind albums by this artist, guitarist Rich WilliamsFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave HopeFind albums by this artist and drummer Phil EhartFind albums by this artist. They started out as a bona fide Prog outfit, based on the European Prog model, but replacing the European Classic music heritage elements with more American sources, like Country and Folk. Nevertheless the music they created, at least during the first years of their career was original, interesting and ambitious enough, to be placed among some of the top US Prog achievements, which in retrospect are not that numerous or impressive altogether. By the time they recorded their fourth and fifth albums, the band scored hit singles and strong album sales, which entrapped them as part of the music industry´s vicious circle, which demanded to repeat the success over and over again, obviously damaging the band´s musical integrity. The band carried on, surviving Livgren becoming a born-again Christian, personal tensions and some minor personnel changes, and kept recording albums up to the last moment before disbanding, all of which are included here and are definitely worth investigating. In retrospect this is a great body of music, which represents well the more creative side of US Rock. Remastered, mini-sleeved, with bonus tracks and expanded version of their only live album, this is a treasure chest, which no Prog fan should miss. The price is also right, so don´t think about this for too long, as it will be out of print soon, like everything else these days.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

BYRDS ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886978738028 (Barcode: 886978738028) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1965 - 1971 Released: 2011 The legendary US group The ByrdsFind albums by this artist have in mid-1960s almost singlehandedly transformed the music scene from a bunch of Folkies to a horde of Rockers almost overnight. Brilliantly catching up on the "Bob DylanFind albums by this artist going electric" trend, they recorded a series of absolutely outstanding albums, which remain to this day some of the best music ever recorded on this planet. Using the US Folk tradition to the max, Dylan included, with clever and conscious lyrics and exquisite vocal harmonies, they added the electric guitars and spiced everything with their incredible talents and musical sensitivity. In time they incorporated Psychedelia and other influences (including Jazz), and pioneered other new developments themselves, which earns them a highly respected place on the pedestal of modern music. In retrospect, no other US group matched their achievements, although many tried to do so. This marvelous Box Set collects all the eleven albums The Byrds released on the Columbia label (13 CDs as two albums are double) between 1965 and 1971, beautifully remastered and with a plethora of bonus tracks and a highly informative booklet with detailed information about every track included. This is such a tremendous body of music of staggering importance and beauty that any recommendations would only lessen its true value. Absolutely classic and essential stuff!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 13 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

STAN GETZ ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886978805829 (Barcode: 886978805829) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1972 - 1979 Released: 2011 With a career spanning half a century American saxophonist Stan GetzFind albums by this artist became one of the undying Jazz icons, making many milestone contributions to the development of the Jazz art form. He was probably one of the most versatile Jazz figures, associated with such diverse Jazz genres as Bebop, Cool, Bossa Nova and Jazz-Rock Fusion. His extensive recorded legacy includes many classic Jazz albums, which are considered timeless and are listened to today. Getz´s most popular albums are those recorded during his stint with the VerveFind albums on this label label (1951–1972), but his albums recorded for and released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label in the 1970s, although criminally less known, are in fact some of his best ever and surely constitute the most diverse output created by one artist in a period of just several years, probably due to the complete artistic freedom and self-production rights he was awarded by Columbia. A total of seven albums were released on Columbia, spanning a wide artistic spectrum and all absolutely brilliant. The set opens with the marvelous "Captain MarvelFind albums with this title" album, recorded with pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist (who wrote almost all the music on that album), bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist, drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. This album was recorded just a month after the recording of the debut eponymous album by the newly founded Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist. It included some of the music already recorded on that debut album and other music included later on the second Return To Forever album called "Light As A FeatherFind albums with this title". This is definitely one of the most memorable early Fusion recordings. Next comes the reunion between Getz and the Brazilian guitarist / composer Joao GilbertoFind albums by this artist ("The Best Of Two WorldsFind albums with this title"), returning to the Jazz / Bossa Nova style, which a decade earlier pushed Getz to the center of fame and popularity as a result of the commercial and artistic success of legendary early Getz / Gilberto albums. Then there is the beautiful collaboration with the legendary vocalist / pianist / composer Jimmie RowlesFind albums by this artist ("The PeacocksFind albums with this title"), a straight-forward quartet date ("The MasterFind albums with this title"), another great Fusion album ("Another WorldFind albums with this title") with keyboardist Andy LaverneFind albums by this artist, an album of Lalo ShifrinFind albums by this artist´s compositions ("Children Of The WorldFind albums with this title") and finally a soundtrack album ("Forest EyesFind albums with this title") recorded in Holland with excellent Dutch musicians. The Box Set also includes a bonus CD comprising of live recordings by Getz, compiled from different albums and informative liner notes. All albums are remastered and include bonus tracks. Together this is one of the most fascinating collections of music, simply exploding with musical genius and incredible performances. It is an essential document of what intelligent and open minded music is all about and an essential part of the Jazz legacy. Not to be missed under any circumstances!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

ALAN PARSONS PROJECT ~ THE COMPLETE ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886978905529 (Barcode: 886978905529) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1976 - 1986 Released: 2014 This Box Set collects the ten albums recorded between 1976 and 1986 by the British producer / sound engineer (Pink FloydFind albums by this artist´s "The Dark Side Of The MoonFind albums with this title" and many others) / keyboardist / composer Alan ParsonsFind albums by this artist and his ensemble called The Alan Parsons ProjectFind albums by this artist. In addition it also includes the previously unreleased instrumental album "The Sicilian DefenseFind albums with this title" recorded in 1979, which was shelved at the time and never saw the light of day until now. Although the ensemble was named after Parsons, in fact it was basically a duo project, which combined the talents of Parsons and keyboardist / songwriter / composer Eric WoolfsonFind albums by this artist (who died in 2009). The other members of the ensemble changed frequently over time and only a few of them appeared on a more permanent basis. Over the years the ensemble was fronted by many different lead vocalists, often several of which appeared on the same album, which was quite a unique concept at the time. Some of the less expected names include Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist, Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist or Colin BlunstoneFind albums by this artist. Another unusual fact about the ensemble is that it never performed live during the original period of their existence. The music of the ensemble moved through several shifts over the years. Initially it was considered a Prog act, with their early album being more or less concept related. Later on the music became more Pop / Rock oriented and much less ambitious. One of the strongest characteristics of the music was the use of extensive orchestral arrangements, which always gave the music a strong European flavor, connected to the Classical Romantic tradition. The Alan Parsons Project is remembered by some remarkable songs, which are evergreens and the unique musical and sound production, which of course was Parson´s main area of interest. The typically British sense of humor and delicate, intricate, cultural hints portray the music at its best moments, although the overall output is rather unequal. Definitely worth revisiting!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

BILL WITHERS ~ THE COMPLETE SUSSEX AND COLUMBIA ALBUMS SONY 886978946720 (Barcode: 886978946720) ~ USA ~ Classic Pop Recorded: 1971 - 1985 Released: 2012 Although sadly almost forgotten today, American singer / songwriter Bill WithersFind albums by this artist was one of the great heroes of the Soul scene throughout the 1970s. His illustrious, but relatively short career included many successful chart hits and Grammy Awards (both nominations and winnings), ending with him slowly disappearing from the limelight, for reasons not completely clear, especially since his enormous talent remains obviously unexhausted. Withers recorded four albums for the SussexFind albums on this label label (including the live recording of his Carnegie Hall concert) and another four albums for ColumbiaFind albums on this label, all during the 1970s. Then, after an almost six years break his last album was recorded in 1985, also for Columbia. All these nine albums are included in this Box Set. Withers was an absolutely unique voice of his generation and in many respects he was more important than most of his contemporaries. He managed to compose sublime melodies and write intelligent, meaningful and touching lyrics and then perform them masterfully, like almost no other Soul artist of his generation. Deeply rooted in Blues and Gospel, his particular brand of Soul, mixed with early Funk, was absolutely marvelous and way ahead of its time. He recorded with excellent musicians, like keyboardist Booker T. JonesFind albums by this artist, guitarist Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist and drummer Jim KeltnerFind albums by this artist, who played on his debut album and later with members of the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm BandFind albums by this artist: keyboardist Ray JacksonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Benorce BlackmonFind albums by this artist, bassist Melvin DunlapFind albums by this artist and drummer James GadsonFind albums by this artist, who played on the remaining Sussex albums. Following his move to Columbia, he was accompanied by many of the great Funk and Jazz musicians on the label´s roster. The music and the subject matter of Withers´ songs lost absolutely nothing of their value and meaning over time. Struggle with loss, addiction, social injustice, pains of heart and other deeply personal subjects, which Withers manages to capture precisely and in a few words, are closer to poetry than simple songs´ lyrics and combined with the sublime melodies are true masterpieces of songwriting. Considering the fact that songs of such quality are rarely created today, these gems become even more precious. Remastered and mini-sleeved, this Box Set is an excellent tribute to a great Afro-American troubadour, who should not be forgotten and who still has so much to offer today. This is an exceptional addition to any serious music collection.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

EARTH, WIND & FIRE ~ THE COLUMBIA MASTERS SONY 886978946928 (Barcode: 886978946928) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1972 - 1990 Released: 2011 American ensemble Earth, Wind & FireFind albums by this artist epitomizes the best in American popular music in the 1970s and 1980s, especially the music made by Afro-American musicians in these two decades. Following the two revolutionary decades (1950s and 1960s), during which Afro-Americans invented Rock And Roll and Soul, they moved now into Funk, which usually also included some Jazz elements. None of the ensembles active in the 1970s and 1980s came close to Earth, Wind & Fire in creating such an eloquent and aesthetically perfect collection of music, which amalgamated Pop, Rock, Soul, Funk and Jazz, like nobody else. Founded in 1969 by vocalist / drummer / songwriter Maurice WhiteFind albums by this artist, the band released a couple of albums on Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, before moving to ColumbiaFind albums on this label, where the impressive body of 15 albums was released between 1972 and 1990. The music combined superb vocal harmonies with a funky rhythm section and a sublime brass section, which sounded as good as Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist and ChicagoFind albums by this artist at their best. The band enjoyed enormous commercial success, which didn´t damage their musical integrity one bit, which is quite exceptional and of course commendable. This beautiful Box Set includes all the albums the band released on Columbia and an additional CD of bonus material. Together this is a massive collection of timeless music, which only gets better with time. This is a perfect match of fun and honest musical achievement, which can be combined, as this music proves beyond a shadow of a doubt. A major piece of music history, which would make any serious record collection proud!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 16 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

SAM COOKE ~ THE RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886978987020 (Barcode: 886978987020) ~ USA ~ Classic Pop Recorded: 1960 - 1963 Released: 2011 Dead at the age of 33 in a shooting accident, American singer Sam CookeFind albums by this artist already managed to earn the title of "the King of Soul" and left a sizeable legacy of recorded music, which ensures his position as one of the great singers in American history. Blessed with a velvety voice and an unusually sensitive musical abilities, Cooke developed form a wonderful crooner, singing sentimental love songs (and doing it brilliantly) to pioneering the Soul movement, which embraced the US with full force by the mid-1960s. Always impeccably in-tune, on-time and exactly right, Cooke was an example of a perfect entertainer, being a proud member of a very exclusive club. This magic Box Set presents all the recordings made by Cooke for the RCAFind albums on this label label in the last four years before his death, including a live recording which was released posthumously. Most of the albums included here were previously unavailable on CD. The remastering is absolutely stunning and the sound quality divine. Remastered and packaged in mini-sleeved album replicas and with a super-low price tag this is an offer nobody should be resistant to!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

WOODY SHAW ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979189027 (Barcode: 886979189027) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1977 - 1981 Released: 2011 American trumpeter / composer Woody ShawFind albums by this artist is often referred to as the last great innovator of the Jazz trumpet tradition. His incredible technical skills as well as his deep Jazz sensitivity enabled him to create some of the most memorable Jazz moments. Unfortunately his recording legacy as a leader is relatively limited and his death at the ridiculous age of 44 has cut his career tragically short. Over the years he recorded extensively as a sideman and contributed his part to some of the most notable and pivotal Jazz recordings, especially during his stint with the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label in the mid to late 1960s, where he was the "house trumpeter". Shaw´s most important work as a leader was recorded in the late 1970s for ColumbiaFind albums on this label, where he recorded five superb albums which finally awarded him the recognition and appreciation he so much deserved. These recordings allowed his to utilize in full his abilities both as a player and composer, surrounded by a splendid group of musicians. His music often used unusual musical devices, such as polytonality and the pentatonic scale, which Shaw absorbed from his idols like Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, from the 20th century Classical Music composers as well as from World Music influences. However he was able to utilize those complex and often quite difficult musical ideas and make them sound "easy" and natural to the Jazz environment. The Columbia session were recorded with Shaw leading different combos, from a classic quintet to a tentet and even larger ensembles. The list of participants includes some of the most important Jazz performers active at the time, like trumpeter Charles SullivanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Joe HendersonFind albums by this artist, Rene McLeanFind albums by this artist, Carter JeffersonFind albums by this artist, Gary BartzFind albums by this artist and others, pianist Onaje Allan GumbsFind albums by this artist, George CablesFind albums by this artist, Mulgrew MillerFind albums by this artist and others. This Box Set includes all the five albums Shaw recorded for Columbia, remastered and expanded with bonus tracks, as well as a sixth bonus CD, which comprises of previously unreleased material recorded at the same Village Vanguard concert, which was partly released as the "Stepping StonesFind albums with this title" album. This is some of the most remarkable Jazz music made in the 1970s and an important piece of the modern Jazz puzzle, which should be listened to by new generations and inspire them to carry the proverbial torch. It should definitely find its place in any serious Jazz record collection.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

DEXTER GORDON ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979189126 (Barcode: 886979189126) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1976 - 1980 Released: 2011 The veteran American saxophonist / composer Dexter GordonFind albums by this artist was one of the Jazz icons with a career spanning half a century. He was one of the great Bebop pioneers and his playing over the years remained more or less within the Bebop tradition. Gordon recorded extensively as a sideman and as a leader, participating in many seminal Bebop recordings. Since the early 1960s he recorded for the legendary Blue NoteFind albums on this label label, creating some of his best work there. Gordon left the US for Europe, as did many other American musicians in the 1960s, where he lived for fifteen years, mostly in Paris and Copenhagen. He enjoyed the European way of life and cultural atmosphere, which was free from racial discrimination and admired Jazz. While living in Europe he continued to record for Blue Note and the Danish SteeplechaseFind albums on this label label. By the late 1960 he switched to the PrestigeFind albums on this label label in the US. Gordon finally returned to the US for good in 1976 and signed with ColumbiaFind albums on this label, where he recorded the last of his output before his death in 1990. He also started an acting career, with the most notable appearance in the "Round Midnight" movie, where he portrayed a heroin addicted saxophonist, roughly based on his own biography. Gordon´s Columbia releases started with the live recording of his homecoming concert at the legendary Village Vanguard in NY, and included three studio albums and one more live album recorded at Carnegie Hall. All these recordings expanded by numerous bonus tracks and a whole additional CD of bonus tracks are included in this lovely Box Set. The list of names of the accompanying musicians reads like the who´s who of the US mainstream Jazz scene of the 1970s, and includes trumpeter Woody ShawFind albums by this artist, pianists George CablesFind albums by this artist, Cedar WaltonFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist and others, vibraphonist Bobby HutchersonFind albums by this artist, bassist Rufus ReidFind albums by this artist and many others. Overall this is some of the finest American mainstream Jazz played in the Bebop tradition, with wonderful performances by first class players, heartwarming solos and great compositions. Any true Jazz lover will enjoy these classic recordings and having them collected in one neat package with bonus material and informative liner notes is all anybody could ask for. Definitely not to be missed!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

WAYNE SHORTER ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979202429 (Barcode: 886979202429) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 1971 - 1988 Released: 2011 There are very few Jazz musicians, who can claim being at the epicenter of the most innovative and creative music making for decades and also be called one of the greatest Jazz composers, but saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist certainly is one of them. His role as a member of the legendary second Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintet and than as co-founder and co-leader of the no less legendary Weather ReportFind albums by this artist are already more significant than the achievements of most other musicians, but Shorter also has a most impressive solo career, which spans from the late 1950s to now, i.e. for over half a century. Shorter´s recordings as a leader, which were chronologically released on the Vee-JayFind albums on this label, Blue NoteFind albums on this label, ColumbiaFind albums on this label and VerveFind albums on this label labels present a magnificent body of work both as a performer and a composer. The Blue Note recordings, eleven albums released between 1964 and 1970 and recorded while he was a member of the Miles Davis quintet, are perhaps the most impressive and pivotal as far as Jazz development is concerned, but all the others are also great showcases of his talent. Shorter recorded four albums for Columbia; one in 1974 and the other three in the late 1980s, all of which are included in this Box Set. The first album, ("Native DancerFind albums with this title") recorded with the brilliant Brazilian musician / composer Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist is the most memorable and impressive of the Columbia recordings and a beautiful example of Jazz-World Fusion at its best. In addition to several great Brazilian musicians playing on the album, including Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, it also features Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on piano. The other three albums are somewhat Fusion oriented and feature different lineups of first class musicians, especially keyboard players like Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Stu GoldbergFind albums by this artist, Jim BeardFind albums by this artist, Patrice RushenFind albums by this artist, Geri AllenFind albums by this artist and others and of course almost exclusively the superb compositions by Shorter. This Box Set also includes two bonus CDs, which collect all Weather Report tracks, which were composed by Wayne Shorter and recorded during the group´s entire lifespan. Although not adding anything new, these CDs present a great historic document of Shorter´s contribution as a composer to the group´s monumental accomplishments. This Box Set is a must to all Wayne Shorter fans, especially in view of the fact that the individual albums have been out of print for ages. The musical content is of course top notch in every respect, a part of the legacy of a great musician, which deserves to be heard and remembered!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

TAJ MAHAL ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979234420 (Barcode: 886979234420) ~ USA ~ Blues Recorded: 1964 - 1976 Released: 2012 This wonderful Box Set compiles all the material recorded for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label by the legendary Blues singer / songwriter Taj MahalFind albums by this artist. His stint with the label lasted for about 12 years between 1964 and 1976 and covers the initial phases of his career, which resulted in eleven albums released on Columbia. His early album with the group Rising SonsFind albums by this artist, which also included guitarist Ry CooderFind albums by this artist, remained unreleased until 1992 and is also included in this Box Set as is a double album of previously unreleased studio and concert material. Mahal´s music goes through several significant changes during the period covered by these recordings: Rising Sons was one of the first American bands mixing Country, Blues and Rock and in retrospect their album is a revolutionary step in the formation of American Rock music. By the late 1960s Mahal entered the electric Blues period, which paired him with the superb guitarist Jesse Ed DavisFind albums by this artist and produced three brilliant Blues-Rock albums. In early 1970s he ventured into a short love affair with Jazz, producing a couple of excellent albums with a large brass ensemble. Finally the rest of the 1970s Mahal spent exploring various World Music influences like Reggae, Calypso, Zydeco and others, mixing them with his Blues heritage and producing some extraordinary music in the process. In retrospect this Box Set presents a diverse and fascinating body of music, which unfortunately never truly achieved the recognition it deserves. Mahal surely deserves credit for his constant explorations and his open-mindedness, which is quite extraordinary. Remastered and mini-sleeved, with bonus material and an informative booklet this Box Set is a treasure chest, which music connoisseurs should really enjoy, all this in addition to its intrinsic value as an important puzzle in the history of music. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 15 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

GROVER WASHINGTON, JR. ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979244825 (Barcode: 886979244825) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1985 - 1999 Released: 2011 This Box Set includes all the albums released by US saxophonist / composer Grover Washington, Jr.Find albums by this artist on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, which spanned the last decade and a half of his life, untimely cut short by his tragic and unexpected death. Washington, primarily known as the Godfather of Smooth Jazz was in fact a gifted Jazz musician with a career spanning almost forty years, which slowly shifted from mainstream Jazz towards Jazz-Funk and Soul-Jazz. He enjoyed immense popularity amongst non-Jazz music lovers, but his true Jazz spirit was always a part of his milieu, especially when examined in retrospect. The Columbia recordings present a wide range of stylistically diverse settings, moving between Funk, Soul-Jazz and mainstream Jazz, which is rarely associated with his legacy. Some superb players took part in these recordings, such as trumpeter Eddie HendersonFind albums by this artist, pianists Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist and Hank JonesFind albums by this artist, bassists Ron CarterFind albums by this artist and George MrazFind albums by this artist, drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist and many, many more. Washington plays alto, tenor and soprano saxophones with mastery skill and fluency and his improvisational abilities are beyond reproach. Of course many hardcore Jazz listeners will find this music way to "easy going" for their ears, but many will also be surprised by the Artistry Washington presents often on these albums. Listeners, who like the easier side of Jazz, should find this stuff absolutely delightful. Whatever one´s opinion of Washington´s music may be, one must admit that he certainly was one of the most influential musicians in the 1980s and 1990s. This Box Set, with the original albums mini-sleeved and an informational liner notes included is definitely worth investigating.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend

GEORGE DUKE ~ THE COMPLETE 1970S EPIC ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979303225 (Barcode: 886979303225) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 1977 - 1979 Released: 2012 American keyboardist / composer George DukeFind albums by this artist is definitely one of the most colorful, dynamic, brilliant and versatile musical personalities on the scene. With a career spanning five decades and activities covering such diverse sub-genres as mainstream Jazz, Jazz-Rock Fusion, Rock, Funk and Jazz-World Fusion, Duke made over the years an enormous impact on the development of contemporary music. Following a several years long association (early to mid 1970s) with the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label, where Duke released his revolutionary early Fusion albums, he switched to the EpicFind albums on this label label (a subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label), where he recorded six albums between 1977 and 1979, all of which are included in this wonderful Box Set. The Epic recordings reveal Duke gradually moving away from the Jazz and even Fusion roots, replacing those by Funk and other popular music influences. Only the last album in this set ("A Brazilian Love AffairFind albums with this title") is different and presents Duke as a Jazz-World Fusion artist, with an obvious affinity for Brazilian music. On that album he is supported by several famous Brazilian musicians, including vocalist Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist, percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, vocalist Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, guitarist Toninho HortaFind albums by this artist and many others, in addition to his American regulars. On all the albums he plays with an excellent group of musicians, which includes his long-time friend bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist, drummer Leon Ndugu ChanclerFind albums by this artist, bassist Byron MillerFind albums by this artist, percussionist Sheila EscovedoFind albums by this artist and numerous others, including many brass players as well, which shows a clear influence of Earth, Wind & FireFind albums by this artist on Duke´s music at the time. Duke composed all the music on these albums (with very few minor exceptions) and he also utilizes his vocals, which is the most criticized issue regarding this music. As much as these albums were successful on the US market, they were treated with disrespect and sheer detest by his European and Japanese fans, who accused him of commerciality. The problem was of course, that this music should have not been compared to or judged by the same criteria as his earlier output, which was completely different stylistically. In retrospect this music still sounds great and lost nothing of its power and ingenuity, providing it is treated separately from Duke´s other output. The tunes are great, as are the performances, and one can´t resist the funky rhythms unless one is completely deaf or brain-dead. There are very few musicians, who display the same level of integrity and ingenuity as George Duke in everything they do over the years. He is the man and nobody can deny it!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979303423 (Barcode: 886979303423) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2011 To make things perfectly clear before we go any further, this Box Set includes music recorded by the first version of the seminal ensemble Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which lasted for about a couple of years between 1971 and 1973 and released three albums on ColumbiaFind albums on this label. Subsequent versions of Mahavishnu Orchestra continued to release albums on Columbia, but those are not included here and will hopefully be released in the future as a separate Box Set. British guitarist / composer John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist arrived at the epicenter of the revolutionary Jazz scene quite by chance, via his old friend bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and his first American employer drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, which eventually led to McLaughlin joining the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist group and playing a crucial role in creating the groundbreaking music Davis was forging at the time. Prompted by Davis, while still a part of his group, McLaughlin formed his first ensemble, which in retrospect turned out to be one of the most extraordinary Jazz-Rock Fusion ensembles, setting an example so powerful that now, over forty years later, it still reverberates and is being used as a definition of the genre. Mahavishnu Orchestra was extraordinary in many ways. It brought together musicians from many different countries and cultural backgrounds: American violinist Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Czech keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, Irish bassist Rick LairdFind albums by this artist and Panamanian drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist, all virtuosi on their respective instruments. Such aggregation of talent is of course beneficial for the music, but can prove to be strenuous as far as personal relationships are concerned. Also, as far as the musical direction was concerned, McLaughlin and the ensemble had to create their own environment, as they were walking on a path, which was previously undiscovered. McLaughlin had complete freedom while with Davis, which enabled him to stretch out and play expanded solos without any harmonic or rhythmic restrictions. Mahavishnu Orchestra was completely opposite: precise and sharp like a razor blade, with everything clicking on a beat and often following a neck-breaking speed. It is evident McLaughlin struggled with this new framework initially, only to conquer it gloriously. He composed almost all the music the ensemble played, with just an occasional contribution by Hammer, Goodman and Laird. After recording and releasing the first two albums ("The Inner Mounting FlameFind albums with this title" and "Birds Of FireFind albums with this title"), the group recorded a third studio album, which was scrapped and laid hidden in the vaults, only to be released twenty six years later as "The Lost Trident SessionsFind albums with this title". A live recording at NY Central Park, called "Between Nothingness & EternityFind albums with this title", became the group´s third and last album recorded by the first lineup. This Box Set includes the four a.m. albums and a bonus CD, which comprises of previously unreleased additional material from the live recording, which became the third album. There is also one earlier live recording added as a bonus track on the first album. Of course this music is so brilliant and so important, that recommending it any further is simply superfluous. It is an absolute classic and a timeless ingredient of music history, which should be an essential cornerstone of any music collection.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

CHARLIE CHRISTIAN ~ THE GENIUS OF THE ELECTRIC GUITAR SONY 886979303522 (Barcode: 886979303522) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1939 - 1941 Released: 2012 This Box Set collects the recordings by guitarist / composer Charlie ChristianFind albums by this artist as a member of the Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist sextet and Orchestra, which constitute the bulk of his recorded work. Christian was one of the first guitarists to use the amplified electric guitar and was instrumental in elevating the role of the guitar from accompaniment to front stage solo instrument. His playing influenced generations of guitar players and was felt beyond the Jazz sphere, most importantly in the infancy years of Rock, which was about to explode about a decade after these recordings were made. Christian died at the ridiculous young age of 25 and his death cut short perhaps one of the most promising careers, that might have developed. It is extremely rare that an artist active for such a restricted period of time managed to influence so many others, as in the case of Christian. It is entirely possible that music, as we know it, might have developed quite differently without his contribution. The music herein was recorded at the peak of the Swing era and clarinetist / composer Goodman, who was often referred to as the King Of Swing, and his sextet were truly an admirable outfit. The sextet also included vibraphonist Lionel HamptonFind albums by this artist and pianists such as Fletcher HendersonFind albums by this artist, Count BasieFind albums by this artist and others. They play several Christian compositions in addition of course to the music composed by the leader and others. Christian´s riffs and numerous solo spots are simply brilliant and a careful listener will be able to recognize countless phrases used by future generations of guitar players. The box includes many alternative takes and studio outtakes. The albums are packed in mini-sleeves and a superbly educational booklet is also included. This Box Set is an absolute treasure for people, who wish to understand the history and development of the guitar and its role in contemporary music. For people unfamiliar with Christian´s legacy, this might be quite and experience. Of course it´s an essential piece of the Jazz legacy. Great stuff!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

BILLIE HOLIDAY ~ LADY DAY - THE COMPLETE BILLIE HOLIDAY ON COLUMBIA 1933-1944 SONY 886979303621 (Barcode: 886979303621) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1933 - 1944 Released: 2011 American singer / songwriter Billie HolidayFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly not only the most iconic female figure in the history of Jazz, but also a symbol of American history. Her tragic personal life, drug addiction and suffering caused by racial discrimination are a universal tale, which reflects the times she lived in. Musically, she is probably the greatest Jazz vocalist of all times and adding anything is simply superfluous. This Grammy Award winning Box Set collects all the recordings Holiday made for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label and its subsidiary labels during that twelve years period, which was her most stable musically and basically established her diva status. Just to make everything perfectly clear, all these tracks were originally released on 78s before the LP format was invented. Painstakingly remastered, researched and annotated, this Box Set presents a formidable piece of Jazz history, with very few parallels. Holiday returned to record for Columbia in the very last years of her life (1957-1958) but these recordings are not included here and await a separate Box Set. On the recordings included here she is accompanied by superb gallery of Jazz musicians and bands, the absolute crème de la crème of the period. For listeners less acquainted with the earlier Jazz periods, this is simply a wonderful opportunity to enter that magnificent world. There are no weak moments or fillers here; everything is simply musical gold, every moment, every phrase and every sound. As I already said, this is absolutely essential piece of music history and a copy of this should be (in one form or another) present in every cultural home on this planet; ´nuff said!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

STANLEY CLARKE ~ THE COMPLETE 1970S EPIC ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979312227 (Barcode: 886979312227) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1974 - 1979 Released: 2012 American bassist / composer / bandleader Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist is one of the iconic figures of the Jazz-Rock Fusion explosion, which swept the world in the late 1960s / early 1970s. His distinctive and virtuosic bass lines have set standards, which are followed to this very day, with very few bass players being able to play as technically perfect as he always did and even fewer to be as inventive, groundbreaking and innovative. Although primarily associated with Fusion and the electric bass guitar, Clarke always was (and still is) an exceptional acoustic bass player with a superb Jazz technique and sensitivity. Clarke first came to prominence as a member of the first lineup of the legendary Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist´s ensemble Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, where his bass lines shaped the music as significantly as Corea´s keyboard wizardry. Clarke stayed with the original band for several years and remained a Corea´s friend and collaborator in the decades that followed. In parallel to his work with Return To Forever, Clarke started a solo recording career, which produced some of Fusion´s and later also Funk´s greatest moments. Following the release of his debut solo album on PolydorFind albums on this label, he switched to the NemperorFind albums on this label label (currently owned by SonyFind albums on this label) and later on to the EpicFind albums on this label label (a subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). He recorded five albums for Nemperor between 1974 and 1979, the last of which was a live double LP. In the 1980s and early 1990s his albums were released on Epic. This Box Set includes all the five albums released on Nemperor and as a bonus also a live album recorded during Clarke´s band tours in 1976-1977, which was released only in 1991. Of course the list of names of the musicians, who play alongside Clarke on these albums, reads like an encyclopedia of American music of that period. To mention just a few: keyboardists Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, David SanciousFind albums by this artist and others, guitarists Bill ConnorsFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and others, drummers Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, Lenny WhiteFind albums by this artist, Gerry BrownFind albums by this artist and others and a myriad of other musicians. Clarke composed almost every note played here, with very few exceptions, and the music is absolutely marvelous and ass-kicking, as it was at the time it was recorded. Clarke was often criticized for utilizing his vocals on some of these albums, which of course was not one of his fortes, but since the vocals are relatively scarce and in retrospect really not that bad, that point of criticism id completely insignificant in view of the majestic content of the music contained herein. Every bass player today, consciously or subconsciously, directly or indirectly is influenced one way or another by what Stanley Clarke played over the years, and this Box Set is a great way to celebrate his talent. Brilliant stuff!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ARETHA FRANKLIN ~ TAKE A LOOK - THE COMPLETE ON COLUMBIA SONY 886979313125 (Barcode: 886979313125) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1960 - 1966 Released: 2011 American singer Aretha FranklinFind albums by this artist, one of the true divas of the music scene and the Queen of Soul, as she was crowned in the late 1960s, is mostly known for her legendary recordings on the AtlanticFind albums by this artist label, where the majority of her great hit singles and albums were released during her peak decade (1967-1976). However, before she signed with Atlantic, she spent seven years with ColumbiaFind albums by this artist records (1960-1966), where her initial career was shaped. She recorded eleven fabulous albums for Columbia, one of which was actually never released and sees the light of day for the first time in this Box Set. Columbia envisaged Franklin primarily as a Jazz singer, and the entire production, arrangements and choice of repertoire for her albums was aimed at that direction, at least initially blind to her potential as a Rhythm And Blues and Soul genius she truly was. But Franklin was always a superb singer with extraordinary sensitivity and amazing talent and the Columbia recordings are all absolute gems, which sound even better in retrospect. Accompanied by the best Jazz players of the period (the list of credits reads as the who´s who of the Jazz scene at the time), both in combo and orchestra formats, she performs beautifully singing Jazz, Blues, Gospel and some early (for her) Pop and Soul material, with the successive albums clearly showing the slow metamorphosis of her musical persona towards her true vocation. Produced by some of the most legendary music producers of the time, such as the John HammondFind albums by this artist, Clyde OtisFind albums by this artist and others, these are true gems, which prove to be absolutely timeless. This wonderful Box Set includes all the eleven albums Franklin recorded for Columbia, remastered and expanded with a plethora of bonus tracks. It also includes a DVD with Franklin´s 1964 TV show and a beautifully researched and designed booklet. It is an individually numbered limited edition release. This is a wonderful piece of music history, which should make any owner of a serious music collection proud. Hopefully all these sets will find good homes, as they surely don´t make music like this any more. Respect!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted:

CD+DVD 12 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

DAVE BRUBECK ~ THE COLUMBIA STUDIO ALBUMS COLLECTION 1955-1966 SONY 886979388123 (Barcode: 886979388123) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1955 - 1966 Released: 2011 American Jazz pianist / composer Dave BrubeckFind albums by this artist and his quartet dominated the world piano quartet scene and in many respects the entire Jazz scene for the better part of two decades (the 1950s & 1960s), being the most popular and widely known Jazz ensemble, which won massive media coverage and even enjoyed commercial success with their recorded output, which is extremely rare for a Jazz act. In retrospect it becomes clear that Brubeck and his quartet members: sublime saxophonist Paul DesmondFind albums by this artist, brilliant bassist Eugene WrightFind albums by this artist and extraordinary drummer Joe MorelloFind albums by this artist, created some of the most revolutionary Jazz music and advanced the Jazz Art Form by milestone after milestone. Brubeck´s amazing talent as a composer, his sensitivity as a player and above all his consistent drive to explore and try things never tried before resulted in some absolutely iconic Jazz tunes like the celebrated "Take Five" and numerous other compositions. Brubeck was always open to new ideas, including unusual time signatures, bringing those to the center of the Jazz exploration, which previously was almost entirely stuck in the 4/4 rhythmic pattern. He was also one of the pioneers of incorporating World Music influences into his compositions, as well as modern Classical Music elements. Of course he could also write beautiful melodies, which captured the listener´s ear and sounded incredibly "easy" even if they were quite complex musically. Saxophonist Paul Desmond, who played with Brubeck since the 1940s, had one of the most distinctive sounds ever produced in Jazz, which was immediately recognizable and absolutely unique. Combining a natural "sweetness" with incredible sensitivity and technique, Desmond´s could captivate the listeners with his saxophone like the Pied Piper of Hamelin, being simply irresistible. He was Brubeck´s perfect partner, balancing his Cool Jazz approach with the incredible warmth of his playing. Bassist Eugene Wright (the only Afro-American in the quartet) was the absolute anchor of the quartet´s music, which often was going in different directions, both rhythmically and melodically, all at once. His tone and stability were simply second to none. Drummer Joe Morello was another unique ingredient of this magical quartet and probably the only player able to play all those intricate time signatures with unbelievable precision and virtuosity. His solo spots were the first of their kind and for the first time brought the drummer to the center of the listener´s attention. A mighty four they were indeed! Following the recording of several albums for small East Coast labels, Brubeck and his quartet started their stint with the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, which lasted for twelve years and produced nineteen studio albums, all of which are included in this incredible Box Set. The numerous live recordings will hopefully be collected as well and released in the form of another Box Set in the future. The body of work and the sheer genius included herein are simply worth their weight in gold. Some of the most iconic music produced in the US, Jazz and beyond, is contained in this box, which is like the proverbial treasure chest. I can´t imagine it not being a part of any serious music collection. Essential stuff!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 19 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

DUKE ELLINGTON ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA STUDIO ALBUMS COLLECTION 1951-1958 SONY 886979388826 (Barcode: 886979388826) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1951 - 1958 Released: 2012 American pianist / composer / bandleader Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist is universally acclaimed as one of the most pivotal figures not only in Jazz but in the 20th Century Culture in general. Ellington was the most important Jazz composer, with over a thousand compositions to his credit. His incredibly fruitful imagination and a prophetic vision, in addition to his compositional skills, easily equivalent to those of contemporary Classical composers, made him a unique phenomenon among his peers, unparalleled and masterful. But he was also a superb pianist and a brilliant arranger as well as phenomenal bandleader. The Duke Ellington OrchestraFind albums by this artist was a symbol of Jazz for over five decades, starting in the 1920s during the Harlem Renaissance and until his death in 1974. The orchestras (Big Bands) led by Ellington were famous for their incredible precision and virtuosic skills and always comprised of the absolute crème de la crème of the American Jazz scene. The list of the band members reads like a who´s who of the 20th Century American Jazz. For Ellington the composer the existence of such a highly skilled orchestra was the only vehicle capable of performing his beautifully crafted but also often quite complex and devilishly clever music. This incredible Box Set includes all his recordings for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, recorded in the 1950s and covering this decade of his lifetime, which is often considered as the most artistically fertile in his entire career. It also covers the period of the great change in the Ellington´s orchestra, which was relatively stable in the preceding decade and a half and was about to be rejuvenated both personally and stylistically. With the departure of players like drummer Sonny GreerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Johnny HodgesFind albums by this artist or trombonist Lawrence BrownFind albums by this artist, Ellington infused the orchestra with "fresh blood" in the form of drummer Louis BellsonFind albums by this artist (and later Sam WoodyardFind albums by this artist), saxophonist Paul GonsalvesFind albums by this artist, clarinetist Jimmy HamiltonFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Clark TerryFind albums by this artist and others, which resulted in a much more invigorated and up-to-date overall sound and vigor. The music herein includes some of Ellington´s most powerful and aesthetically fulfilling work, both short pieces and extended suites. It shows Ellington´s respect of the sources of Jazz, including Blues and Gospel on one hand, and his open-mindedness towards modern Classical music, all of which are the ingredients of his masterly compositions. Some of the music includes vocals, performed by Mahalia JacksonFind albums by this artist and others. There is no doubt than this is some of the best and most important music 20th Century bequeathed to future generations. One can only hope those future generations will keep this eternal flame alive with their continuous love and admiration. Remastered and expanded with a plethora of bonus tracks, this Box Set should become an absolutely essential cornerstone of any serious music collection, Jazz or otherwise. This is Culture encapsulated, intense and immortal, a beacon of light in the darkness of ignorance, which is slowly engulfing us all.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

NINA SIMONE ~ THE COMPLETE RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979389021 (Barcode: 886979389021) ~ USA ~ Blues Recorded: 1967 - 1974 Released: 2011 The American Diva Nina SimoneFind albums by this artist recorded the majority of her musical legacy during a relatively short period of time in the late 1960s / early 1970s for the RCAFind albums on this label label. This sublime Box Set collects all nine of her RCA albums, remastered and with a plethora of bonus tracks, mini-sleeved and with a booklet detailing all the recording sessions. This is an amazing body of work of one of America´s most idiosyncratic Artists, which influenced musicians and listeners all over the world, shaking the ground and slaughtering holy cows by the dozen. A pioneer of human rights and women rights activism, Simone never restrained herself from expressing her strong viewpoints, which often resulted in controversy and even persecution from US authorities, which made her to leave the US and settle in Europe. Her musical direction reminded eclectic and included everything from Blues to Jazz, Pop, Gospel, Soul, Folk and even a strong Classical Music influence. Unfortunately her later career was a victim of her poor health (both physical and mental) and her recorded work never again reached the peak presented by the albums in this box. With a ridiculous price tag, this Box Set is an absolute must. Essential!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

WEATHER REPORT ~ THE COLUMBIA ALBUMS 1976-1982 SONY 886979394025 (Barcode: 886979394025) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 1976 - 1982 Released: 2011 When bassist / composer Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist joined the ranks of Weather ReportFind albums by this artist in 1976, a new phase of stability and prosperity opened for the band, which would last for almost the entire next seven years period and produce an incredible body of work, considered today as part of the classic Jazz, Fusion and Funk heritage. The six albums recorded during that period and included in this Box Set, including the live double LP, are all perfect examples of the band´s incredible writing and performing talents and their everlasting search for new sounds, musical explorations and means of expression. Pastorius brought into the band not only his youthful energy, but also his unparalleled virtuosity, extreme rhythmic sensitivity and of course his compositions, which were every bit as good as those of the group founders keyboardist / composer Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist. His musical personality was in fact a perfect choice for the direction the band was taking already by the end of the previous phase, which meant more pre-composed melodic themes and more individual soloing, although the overall concept of group improvisation on top of a solid and resourceful rhythm section continued to apply. With Shorter gradually taking a step back from the front line, allowing Zawinul to dominate the group´s repertoire with his compositions and musical direction, it was Pastorius who kept Weather Report as an organic group, rather than a Zawinul backup group, which they would eventually turn into following the departure of Pastorius at the end of this phase. In spite of these internal tensions and changes, in retrospect this phase in the group´s lifetime proved to be the most productive and also commercially successful, both as a recording and a touring act. The bonus tracks used here come mostly from the compilation album "Live And UnreleasedFind albums with this title" and two are previously unreleased. This Box Set is a companion release to the "The Columbia Albums 1971-1975Find albums with this title" Box Set, which covers the first phase of the band´s activity. Hopefully the four remaining Weather Report albums, recorded 1983-1986, will also get a similar reissue treatment, to complete this seminal band´s complete discography. This is an essential release and should be a part of any decent music collection, especially in view of its accessibility, which should appeal to quite a wide spectrum of listeners. They don´t make music like this any more…

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

PAUL DESMOND ~ THE COMPLETE RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979394124 (Barcode: 886979394124) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1961 - 1965 Released: 2011 Although primarily known as a member of the Dave BrubeckFind albums by this artist quartet, the most popular Jazz ensemble on the scene in the 1950s and up to mid-1960s, saxophonist / composer Paul DesmondFind albums by this artist made also a serious contribution to the Jazz art form as a leader, playing and recording music in parallel to his work with Brubeck and after the legendary quartet folded. In order to avoid any confusion, comparison and legal entanglements he signed with the RCAFind albums on this label label (the Brubeck quartet recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label), and his quartets would be piano-less and as a result guitar-based. He recorded six wonderful albums for RCA between 1961 and 1965 and all of them feature his close friend and musical soul-mate, guitarist Jim HallFind albums by this artist and drummer Connie KayFind albums by this artist (member of the Modern Jazz QuartetFind albums by this artist). Several different bassists participated in these recordings, including Eugene WrightFind albums by this artist from Brubeck´s quartet, Percy HeathFind albums by this artist (also a member of the Modern Jazz Quartet), Gene ChericoFind albums by this artist and others. The last of the RCA albums presents the collaboration between Desmond and the superb baritone saxophonist Gerry MulliganFind albums by this artist, another great icon of Cool Jazz. Desmond´s completely unique sound, style and sensibility are fully exposed on these recordings. His incredible ability to present a sweet melody without turning it into sugary pastiche is simply unparalleled. Of course his technique and complete command of his instrument are clearly noticeable and are a classic example of elegance and aesthetics. His dialogue with Jim Hall is also quite remarkable and one of the most intimate cooperation captured on record. This Box Set includes all the six albums Desmond recorded for the RCA label, remastered and expanded with numerous bonus tracks and accompanied by informative liner notes. It is definitely something no serious Jazz connoisseur can ignore and a proud addition to any serious music collection. Although less popular than many other Jazz recordings, this music easily holds the ground in comparison to anything else recorded at the time. Simply brilliant!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ SWINGING INTO THE 21ST SONY 886979442825 (Barcode: 886979442825) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1990 - 2001 Released: 2011 This extraordinary Box Set presents the celebration of music by American trumpeter / composer / arranger / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist and his record label ColumbiaFind albums on this label, organized in 1999 (the last year of the 20th Century) to celebrate the turn of the Century as well as the 20th Anniversary of Marsalis as a Columbia recording artist. The scope of this project was absolutely unprecedented and resulted in the release of nine albums featuring the music of Marsalis and his various bands as well as his orchestral and ballet projects to be released that year, one of which was a seven CDs Box Set of live recordings at the Village Vanguard ("Live At The Village VanguardFind albums with this title"). All these nine albums are present here, with the Box Set represented by a "best of" single CD issue ("Selections From The Village Vanguard BoxFind albums with this title"). In addition the box also includes the "All RiseFind albums with this title" project, which was written and performed in 1999 as the culmination of that year´s work, but was recorded only a couple of years later. This incredible volume of music, ranging from Jazz to Jazz-Classical Fusion, contemporary Classical, Gospel and Chamber music, all brilliantly written and performed, is honestly quite overwhelming. Marsalis has been criticized (often quite viciously), mostly unjustly, by fellow musicians, Jazz critics and other people who think they know what they are talking about, but this Box Set just puts everything in the right proportion. Even if Marsalis is not always the nicest person in the room, outspoken and opinionated, full of himself and condescending, all that is completely meaningless in view of his talent, his music and his dedication to the Jazz Art Form. A person capable of writing and performing such an immense volume of music, which is absolutely brilliant from start to finish, deserves to enjoy some vices, especially in view of the subjectivity as to what constitutes a vice and what doesn´t. A music lover will find much enjoyment from the contents of these eleven CDs, varied in style and scope but consistently intelligent, challenging and exploding with ideas. The players, singers, Jazz and Classical orchestras, choirs and everybody else involved in these recordings are all absolutely first class, as is the music, the sound and most importantly the spirit of the music. Marsalis earned his statue not because he´s a smart dresser but because he is a hard working, extremely talented and dedicated Artist – regardless of what some people might think or say. This Box Set is a testimony of how Jazz developed in the first 100 years of its history – from humble beginnings to lofty achievements. This is an essential document of Jazz music, which should be cherished and proudly appear on any serious music connoisseur´s shelf.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend

DEEP PURPLE ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 886979445024 (Barcode: 886979445024) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1990 - 1996 Released: 2011 This Box Set collects reissues of three albums by the iconic British Rock group Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist, originally released on the RCAFind albums on this label label between 1990 and 1996. They are: “Slaves And MastersFind albums with this title” (1990), “The Battle Rages On…Find albums with this title” (1993), and “PurpendicularFind albums with this title” (1996). “Slaves And Masters” is the thirteenth studio album and the only album recorded by the Mk V lineup of Deep Purple, in which the lead singer Ian GillanFind albums by this artist was replaced by the ex-RainbowFind albums by this artist vocalist Joe Lynn TurnerFind albums by this artist. The rest of the members were veterans since the forming of the Mk II lineup in 1969: keyboardist Jon LordFind albums by this artist, guitarist Ritchie BlackmoreFind albums by this artist, bassist Roger GloverFind albums by this artist and drummer Ian PaiceFind albums by this artist. Some string orchestral arrangements are also present. The album presents nine songs, all co-written by the band members. Later reissues of the albums included single edits as bonus tracks, which are not present here. “The Battle Rages On…” is the fourteenth studio album and the only album recorded by the second reunion of the Mk II lineup of Deep Purple, in which the lead singer Ian Gillan returned to his vocal duties, alas for the last time. This was the last album recorded by the classic Mk II lineup. The album presents ten songs, all co-written by the band members. “Purpendicular” is the fifteenth studio album and first album by the Mk VII lineup of Deep Purple, which marked the arrival of ex-Dixie DregsFind albums by this artist / KansasFind albums by this artist American guitarist Steve MorseFind albums by this artist, as a replacement for Blackmore (The short-lived Mk VI featured American guitarist Joe SatrianiFind albums by this artist, who eventually could not join the group on a permanent basis). The album presents twelve songs, all co-written by the band members. Later reissues of the albums included single edits as bonus tracks, which are not present here. Although these albums were met with mixed reception by critics and fans at the time of their release, they are still classic rock album created by Masters of the trade, who never played a wrong note in their life. Considering how dreadful Rock / Pop music created in the 1990s was in general, these three albums are some of the last strongholds of sanity and of course they are an essential part of the Deep Purple legacy. And yes, all the three album covers are amongst the ugliest ever! ;) Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 06/02/2024Posted: 11/09/2021

CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend

LOUIS ARMSTRONG ~ THE OKEH, COLUMBIA & RCA VICTOR RECORDINGS 1925-1933 SONY 886979456525 (Barcode: 886979456525) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1925 - 1933 Released: 2012 This Box Set includes all the recordings made by the Godfather of Jazz, trumpeter / vocalist / composer Louis ArmstrongFind albums by this artist, which define the genre as we know it. The historic importance of these recordings is simply beyond imagination and without them Jazz might have never been created, at least not following the path it actually took. A careful listener will notice that everything that defines Jazz, and most importantly the idiom of "swing" is simply epitomized by these recordings. The early recordings in this set are by the Hot FivesFind albums by this artist and Hot SevensFind albums by this artist, which were Armstrong´s quintet and septet respectively and included such legendary players like trombonist Kid OryFind albums by this artist, clarinetist Johnny DoddsFind albums by this artist, pianists Earl HinesFind albums by this artist and Lil ArmstrongFind albums by this artist and many, many others. Later recordings are by much larger ensembles / orchestras, which also included the most famous musicians active at the time. Stylistically these recordings span several Jazz sub-genres, like Dixieland, New Orleans and Swing, but Armstrong always was cross-genre way before that expression was invented. There is no way the importance of this music can be explained within the limits of a brief review, therefore rather than trying the impossible I simply state the obvious: this is an essential piece of Jazz history, and in fact also an essential piece of Human Culture of such significance, that every person on Earth should listen to this music at least once during his lifetime. For people, who love Jazz and are nor familiar with this music, hearing it might prove to be enlightening to the highest degree and certainly explain the "missing link" between Jazz and other music genres, like Blues and Rock, which have common roots. This is iconic, essential and an absolute must!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

THELONIOUS MONK ~ COMPLETE COLUMBIA STUDIO ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979576827 (Barcode: 886979576827) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1962 - 1968 Released: 2012 Although most often associated with the Bebop genre, American pianist / composer Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist was in fact one of the very few Jazz icons, that managed to create a completely personal style, unlike any another before or after. His playing and his compositions were absolutely outrageous, unconventional and plainly weird. Strange chord changes, aggressive attack, long out of nowhere glissandos and those unexpected pauses in the most unexpected places created a musical experience, which logically made no sense whatsoever but in practice sounded most wonderfully. As many other human geniuses, he is therefore often suspected of being an alien stranded on our pitiful planet. Monk started to record in the mid-1940s as part of the Bebop explosion and over the years worked with Blue NoteFind albums on this label, PrestigeFind albums on this label and RiversideFind albums on this label labels, but his last, longest and most stable and productive period was spent with ColumbiaFind albums on this label records in the 1960s, when these albums were originally recorded. These are the quartet recordings, made with his quartet, which lasted for eleven years and was his preferential vehicle. It included the saxophonist Charlie RouseFind albums by this artist, who was the quartet´s member for that entire duration, bassist John OreFind albums by this artist and later Butch WarrenFind albums by this artist and Larry GalesFind albums by this artist and drummer Frankie DunlopFind albums by this artist and later Ben RileyFind albums by this artist. The music on these albums is a mixture of Monk originals (the majority of the material), some of which were previously recorded on other labels, and his treatment of standards, which of course are often quite remote from the origin. The playing is absolutely stunning, not only by Monk but also by Rouse, who surely deserves the title of the most underrated saxophonist in Jazz history. The quartet format was best serving Monk´s idiosyncratic style and manner, but he also recorded in other formats, like piano solo. Some of his remarkable live performances were also released on Columbia and hopefully all that material will be released in the future as part of the Box Set series. These six albums, remastered and expanded with numerous bonus tracks and accompanied by informative liner notes constitute some of the most important Jazz music ever recorded, which gets better with time and penetrates deeper every time it is listened to. There is no way and serious Jazz buff can afford not having this in his collection; that would be simply sacrilegious. And next time you open your door to a small green humanoid with a couple of antennas on his head, just play him some Monk; he´ll surely dig it!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

LEONARD COHEN ~ THE COMPLETE STUDIO ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979617728 (Barcode: 886979617728) ~ CANADA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1967 - 2004 Released: 2011 America didn´t really need another Jewish Prophet… Zimmerman created enough mayhem as it was, protesting out loud, corrupting the youth and what have you. Just look what happened: the god-fearing American Folk music went electric and turned into Rock, to be followed by the Summer Of Love and later Woodstock! Sodom and Gomorrah! And on top of all this another Jewish poet / singer / songwriter arrives from the north and adds oil to the fire… The connection between Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist and Bob DylanFind albums by this artist is obvious; they both deal often with the same subject matter and similar modus operandi, cleverly crafting revolutionary ideology and dressing it up with music. In many respects Cohen arrived on the scene just after Dylan peaked, and whereas Dylan never managed to recreate the golden era of his youth, Cohen aged well, continuously producing new albums, which were always up to date, both musically and intellectually. This collected studio recordings are a staggering monument presenting Cohen´s talent. Everybody knows some of his songs, which in time became timeless anthems, but listening to these eleven albums chronologically and in full is a true mind-blowing experience. He is a Prophet, a Sage and a great Artist indeed and what is amazing is the simplicity and honesty of his artistic way, devoid of any trickery (studio or otherwise), with minimal orchestration and shunning unnecessary camouflage, just straight to the point riding on the strength of his expressive vocals and heartfelt melodies. In retrospect Cohen is a symbol of minimalism at its most effective. This box is a capsule of good taste, healthy mind and aesthetic symbolism of a time, none of which are to be found today anywhere. An absolute must and an essential piece of what we (still) call Culture, which is disappearing as these words are being written…

CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

JUDAS PRIEST ~ THE COMPLETE ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979678729 (Barcode: 886979678729) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1974 - 2009 Released: 2012 This superb Box Set collects all the albums recorded by the seminal British Rock band Judas PriestFind albums by this artist in the span of about thirty five years, starting with the first two albums recorded for the GullFind albums on this label label and then fifteen albums recorded for the EpicFind albums by this artist label, two of which are double albums. Together these nineteen CDs remastered and expanded with bonus tracks, present one of the finest and most consistent Rock groups that ever existed. Although most commonly referred to as a "Metal" band, Judas Priest always were and still are a Hard Rock band, i.e. a kick ass, loud, energetic performing unit, which plays music based on excellent melodic themes and offers first rate instrumental work with a double lead guitar front. Fronted by the charismatic vocalist Rob HalfordFind albums by this artist, whose ability to scream is truly virtuosic (just kidding), and featuring Glenn TiptonFind albums by this artist and K. K. DowningFind albums by this artist on guitars and Ian HillFind albums by this artist on gutsy bass, the band really has very few contenders in their league. The band did go through several drummers over the years, with Scott TravisFind albums by this artist holding the chair since 1990, but all four founding members are still in the band since 1974, which is truly amazing. Musically the band has been quite consistent over the year, but their 2008 release "NostradamusFind albums with this title", a double CD concept album, which puts to shame most of contemporary Progressive Rock efforts, was a complete and most pleasant surprise. What this box does nor include, and therefore, as it often happens, misses the "complete" part of its title, are a couple of live and a couple of studio albums released on the German SPVFind albums on this label label, recorded with the short lived vocal chair occupancy by Tim OwensFind albums by this artist; altogether not a great loss, although those albums are also worth hearing. Also not included is the newest album by Judas Priest ("Redeemer Of SoulsFind albums with this title"), released after this Box Set was completed and released. For veterans like me, who witnessed this music being created in real time, his is one hell of a nostalgic trip, reconfirming again that most Rock bands today are simply a bunch of talentless sissies and the "real deal" is sadly left behind or left to a bunch of dying dinosaurs. For the later generation, this is a splendid opportunity to discover a fundamental testimony of what Rock music is all about and where it comes from. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 19 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

CHARLES MINGUS ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA & RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979795921 (Barcode: 886979795921) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1957 - 1989 Released: 2012 American bassist / composer / bandleader Charles MingusFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly one of the most iconic personalities in the entire history of the Jazz art form. Often considered as one of the top Jazz composers, comparable only to Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, his legacy has indeed enriched our Culture by some most remarkable achievements. His flamboyant and outspoken personality, his strong and uncompromising social and political views and his extrovert behavior created a mythical status, which he enjoyed already during his lifetime and which certainly remains as part of his legacy. His first and foremost interest was always the Jazz composition and he left a superb legacy of fascinating music, parts of which have become anthems of 20th century Culture. His favorite environments were always big ensembles (nonet / tentet) or a full Big Band, ideal for his compositions and arrangements, which were usually complex, multilayered and called for musicians with virtuosi abilities. Although Mingus never fully committed to Free Jazz, when Jazz marched in that direction in the 1960s, he was already a great innovator a decade earlier when he incorporated Classical music tools and World Music influences into his compositions and utilized collective improvisation, which was a standard in his ensembles. The Mingus discography is quite convoluted and although most of his recordings were released over the years on the AtlanticFind albums on this label label, he recorded also for several other labels, including RCAFind albums on this label (once) and ColumbiaFind albums on this label (twice). Strangely those non-Atlantic recordings are in retrospect considered some of his most important and certainly most widely know output. This divine Box Set includes remastered and expanded versions of his only album released on RCA in 1962 (but recorded half a decade earlier in 1957) called "Tijuana MoodsFind albums with this title", the two 1959 masterpieces "Mingus Ah UmFind albums with this title" and "Mingus DynastyFind albums with this title" with a bonus CD of alternate tracks from these two albums, the 1971 masterpiece "Let My Children Hear MusicFind albums with this title" and the 1972 live album "Charles Mingus And Friends In ConcertFind albums with this title". It also includes the 1989 tribute album called "Mingus EpitaphFind albums with this title", commemorating the 10th anniversary of his death and performed by the absolute crème de la crème of American Jazz scene at the time. Remastered and expanded with bonus tracks, which often double the original album´s content, this is definitely one of the greatest Box Sets ever produced and an absolute must have relic for any music connoisseur on this planet. There are not enough lofty words left to explain any further, just better git it in your soul!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

BRECKER BROTHERS ~ THE COMPLETE ARISTA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979796225 (Barcode: 886979796225) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1975 - 1980 Released: 2012 Brothers Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist (trumpet / flugelhorn) and Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist (saxophone) are collectively and individually symbols of the American Jazz, Fusion and Funk scenes. They can be credited as co-inventors and pioneers of the American Jazz-Rock Fusion in the late 1960s and early 1970s (DreamsFind albums by this artist, Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist), especially as defining the Brass-Rock movement. By the mid-1970s they founded one of the most iconic and influential ensembles, calling it simply Brecker BrothersFind albums by this artist (or Brecker Bros.Find albums by this artist), which added Funk to the already well defined Fusion genre, creating a unique voice of unparalleled sophistication, feel and vitality, which had little, if any competition. The Brecker Brothers band existed originally for about six years, recording six marvelous albums between 1975 and 1980 (a reunion band recorded two more albums in early 1990s) The lineup changed over time and in retrospect included the absolute cream of the crop of American Fusion and Funk musicians active at the time: saxophonist David SanbornFind albums by this artist, guitarists Bob MannFind albums by this artist, Steve KhanFind albums by this artist, Barry FinnertyFind albums by this artist and others, keyboardists Don GrolnickFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist and others, bassists Will LeeFind albums by this artist, Neil JasonFind albums by this artist and Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist, drummers Harvey MasonFind albums by this artist, Christopher ParkerFind albums by this artist, Terry BozzioFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and others. These names really tell the story, and the collective talents combined with the extraordinary compositions by Randy and Michael and the intricate arrangements created some of the unforgettable music, which still sounds as goof today as it did at the time it was recorded. This Box Set collects all the original six albums, released on the Arista label, and adds a couple of little known albums recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1978, originally called "Blue MontreuxFind albums with this title" and "Blue Montreux IIFind albums with this title", which find Randy and Michael in the company of other Jazz luminaries: pianist Warren BernhardtFind albums by this artist, guitarists Steve Khan and Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Mike MainieriFind albums by this artist, bassists Tony LevinFind albums by this artist and Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Steve JordanFind albums by this artist, performing some Brecker Brothers material and other original compositions, all perfectly executed. With Michael´s tragic death in 2007, hearing the Brecker Brothers again is no longer possible, so this Box Set is a great tribute to a closed chapter in the history of American music, which should be remembered, as it is timeless and essential. Changing fads and fashions slide away, leaving the solid gold shining…

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

THELONIOUS MONK ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA LIVE ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979958029 (Barcode: 886979958029) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1963 - 1969 Released: 2015 This phenomenal Box Set includes all the live albums recorded by the iconic Jazz Master, pianist / composer Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, and released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. It comprises of five 2CD sets, with each of the sets presenting complete / expanded versions of albums, which originally included only parts of the recorded concerts and often were spread over more than one album. This set finally sorts out all the confusion about these recordings and puts things in their correct order and placement, and therefore is a truly momentous documentation of Monk´s work. Most of this amazing music was recorded within just two years, namely in 1963 and 1964, with just a few additional tracks recorded live at various locations between 1965 and 1969, which were originally part of the soundtrack of the documentary movie "Thelonious Monk: Straight No Chaser". Most of the music was recorded in a quartet setting with saxophonist Charlie RouseFind albums by this artist, bassist Butch WarrenFind albums by this artist and drummer Frankie DunlopFind albums by this artist (1963) or bassist Larry GalesFind albums by this artist and drummer Ben RileyFind albums by this artist (1964), with just one set recorded by a Big Band (well actually a tentet) with the 1963 quartet plus trumpeters Thad JonesFind albums by this artist and Nick TravisFind albums by this artist and saxophonists Eddie BertFind albums by this artist, Steve LacyFind albums by this artist, Phil WoodsFind albums by this artist and Gene AllenFind albums by this artist – a dreamy lineup by any respect. Considering the fact that this music was recorded basically within a very concise period of time, the basic material, i.e. the compositions used, is quite repetitive and some compositions are repeated several times (for example "Epistrophy" is performed thirteen times), which might have been a drawback but in fact turns out to be a blessing which allows us plainly to witness the Monk genius, with each and every version of the tune being different from every other version. The meaning of improvisation and the limitless power of the human mind are reflected within these sounds and captured for posterity. Overall this Box Set contains so much absolutely brilliant music that it weight could be measured in pure gold. There are no dull moments herein whatsoever and every note tells the story of Jazz and the prodigious talent of the Monk phenomenon, which knows no equals. It is a Bible of music, which should be studied by all those who call themselves Jazz musicians, and revered by Jazz fans of all ages. Hopefully this Box Set will expose this brilliant music to new generations of listeners the world over. Obviously this Box Set should become an essential part of every serious music collection, as it is eternal and timeless and will stay so as long as music matters.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 07/02/2016

CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

BESSIE SMITH ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA RECORDINGS SONY 887254031024 (Barcode: 887254031024) ~ USA ~ Blues Recorded: 1923 - 1933 Released: 2012 This is a monumental collection of the material recorded by American vocalist Bessie SmithFind albums by this artist for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records, spanning over ten years and presenting her at the peak of her career, accompanied by the best instrumentalist available at the time. Although popularly known as the Empress of the Blues, she sang material which bordered between the Blues and the rapidly developing Jazz and cooperated with early Jazz titans like pianists Fletcher HendersonFind albums by this artist and Clarence WilliamsFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Louis ArmstrongFind albums by this artist and many others. There is no Jazz vocalist in the world today, who can claim not being influenced by Bessie Smith´s recordings and her revolutionary contribution to the art of singing, regardless of the genre. She was the pioneer and the model that all Jazz vocalists tried to follow, even when not admitting it openly. Hearing these recordings clearly shows how she progressed over time, taking bold steps into improvised vocal parts in addition to covering the basic melody, which no other vocalist tried before her. Her unique power of expression and the theatrical timbre of her voice were simply completely inimitable. She also wrote many of the songs that she performs here, which makes her the first female singer / songwriter, who managed to achieve a legendary status during her lifetime. Her life and career was cut tragically short by a car accident and the latest recordings included in this Box Set are her last. Remastered and mini-sleeved, this Box Set is an excellent tribute to a great Afro-American legend, who should not be forgotten and who still has so much to offer today. This is an essential addition to any serious music collection.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

JOE SATRIANI ~ THE COMPLETE STUDIO RECORDINGS SONY 887254184225 (Barcode: 887254184225) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1986 - 2013 Released: 2014 This Box Set collects all the studio albums released on the EpicFind albums on this label label by prominent American Rock guitarist / composer Joe SatrianiFind albums by this artist, one of the most prolific and influential guitar heroes since mid 1980s. The Box Set includes fourteen newly remastered albums and a bonus CD collecting many tracks previously available only on special or Japanese editions of his albums. Satriani is considered a highly technical player and innovator of many typical Rock guitar licks heard by contemporary Rock guitarist all over the world. He plays almost exclusively his original material on his solo recordings but also collaborated with other musicians and played lead guitar in Rock groups like Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist for example. He also founded the G3Find albums by this artist trio, which featured many leading Rock guitarists as members of the trio over the years. Many famous contemporary Rock guitarists studied with Satriani over the years. Although Satriani´s teachers in his youth were Jazz musicians, including the legendary pianist Lennie TristanoFind albums by this artist and pioneering guitarist Billy BauerFind albums by this artist, his music has very little, if any Jazz influences and stays firmly within the American mainstream Rock idiom, which is somewhat limited and in retrospect repetitive. He does however improvise extensively during his solos, often being very imaginative and with obvious extraordinary skills. For lovers of guitar based instrumental Rock music this Box Set is a dream come true and an obvious source of joy. Others might enjoy parts of this extensive collection, absorbing it over time in limited doses. In any case this is a momentous piece of contemporary American Rock history.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 15 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

ART BLAKEY ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA AND RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 887254359920 (Barcode: 887254359920) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1956 - 1959 Released: 2015 This superb Box Set includes all the albums by the seminal American Jazz drummer and pioneer of the Hard Bop genre Art BlakeyFind albums by this artist, released by the ColumbiaFind albums on this label and RCAFind albums on this label labels. These recordings span just a short period of four years, between 1956 and 1959, but they include some of the archetypical Jazz of the 1950s and document the birth of the Hard Bop era. Art Blakey and his Jazz MessengersFind albums by this artist were one of the most dominant Jazz ensembles for decades and featured some of the top American Jazz players at the time, the list of which reads like a who´s who of American Jazz: trumpeters Donald ByrdFind albums by this artist, Lee MorganFind albums by this artist and Bill HardmanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Hank MobleyFind albums by this artist, Jackie McLeanFind albums by this artist, Ira SullivanFind albums by this artist, Johnny GriffinFind albums by this artist and Benny GolsonFind albums by this artist and pianists Horace SilverFind albums by this artist, Sam DockeryFind albums by this artist, Ray BryantFind albums by this artist and Wynton KellyFind albums by this artist all play on these albums as do many other first rate players. Blakey was one of the first American Jazz musicians, who were interested in African music, looking for sources of American Jazz. He incorporated African rhythms and techniques into the way he played, which created a unique and almost immediately recognizable drumming style. The Jazz Messengers served for many years and until Blakey´s death in 1990 as one of the most important cradles of young American Jazz musicians and very many top players who arrived on the scene were groomed as members of the Messengers, including such luminaries as Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist and literally dozens of others. Although this music is quite familiar to all serious Jazz fans, it is always great to hear it as played by the original musicians who "invented" it in the first place rather than listen to the countless imitations recorded over and over again since. The last three CDs in this Box Set include live recordings by Blakey and Jazz Messengers recorded in Paris, which were originally released only on French RCA and therefore are much less known. In retrospect this music still sounds fresh and sparkling today, as if absolutely untouched by time, completely justifying its classic status. Of course this is also an essential lesson in Jazz history and tradition, and as such an absolutely indispensable part of any serious record collection. Its availability will perhaps lead the young generation of Jazz players to listen to the source of the genesis of Modern Jazz.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 07/01/2016

CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ JAZZ ON VOGUE SONY 887254437727 (Barcode: 887254437727) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1947 - 1957 Released: 2013 This incredible Box Set collects 35 early Jazz albums released on the legendary French Jazz labels: Disques VogueFind albums on this label founded in 1947 and its subsidiary SwingFind albums on this label, which was originally established in Paris in 1937 by Charles DelaunayFind albums by this artist and passed to Vogue in 1948. The music was recorded during the first post WWII decade (1947-1957) and features both American Jazz artists, who visited France or lived in France at the time as well as European Jazz artists. Paris was at the time the European Jazz center, which corresponded splendidly with its status as the European intellectual center, which produced dramatic and groundbreaking developments in European Philosophy, Plastic Arts, Cinema, Literature and of course music. Most of these albums were originally released on 10-inch LPs, which had a time limit under half an hour, and therefore they are arranged here to span over 20 CDs, each well over an hour long. The music was beautifully remastered and sounds remarkably fresh and vibrant. The list of the performers reads like a who´s who of American Jazz at the time: Dizzy GillespieFind albums by this artist, Roy EldridgeFind albums by this artist, Sidney BechetFind albums by this artist, Mary Lou WilliamsFind albums by this artist, Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist, Lionel HamptonFind albums by this artist, Clifford BrownFind albums by this artist, Jimmy RaneyFind albums by this artist, Oscar PettifordFind albums by this artist, Gerry MulliganFind albums by this artist, Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, Roy HaynesFind albums by this artist, Lalo SchifrinFind albums by this artist and many others. The Europeans (French and Belgian in this case) are represented by Django ReinhardtFind albums by this artist, Martial SolalFind albums by this artist, Bobby JasparFind albums by this artist, Henri RenaudFind albums by this artist, Rene ThomasFind albums by this artist, Andre HodeirFind albums by this artist, Barney WilenFind albums by this artist and many others. Stylistically the music spans quite a wide range of Jazz sub-genres, from New Orleans via Swing, Bee Bop, Cool and Early European Modern Jazz. Of course all of it is absolutely classic stuff as far as Jazz history is concerned and is essentially timeless. The most astonishing discovery, in retrospect, is the fact that the European musicians at that early stage already hold their ground opposite the Americans, showing early signs of a much more open-minded approach and a will to step beyond the American dominated Jazz conventions of the time. Many of these albums were never before released on CD; some of them are ultra-rare collectors´ items since decades. For example the three early Martial Solal releases (collected on CD number 6) are absolutely stunning examples of modern European piano trio recordings, which is decades ahead of its time, as are several other albums in this set. This is an essential collection for any serious Jazz connoisseur, which covers a huge void in many record collections. This box is worth its price (which is very reasonable) in gold and should serve as an example of how reissue projects should be produced. An absolute must!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 20 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DJANGO REINHARDT ~ DJANGO REINHARDT ON VOGUE - COMPLETE EDITION (1934-1951) SONY 887254446927 (Barcode: 887254446927) ~ BELGIUM ~ Jazz Recorded: 1934 - 1951 Released: 2012 This superb Box Set contains all the music recorded by the legendary Belgian-born Romani (Gypsy) guitarist / composer Django ReinhardtFind albums by this artist for the French VogueFind albums on this label label. Reinhardt lived near Paris since his early childhood and most of his musical activities were carried out in France and with French musicians. These recordings cover his entire career since the period he first discovered Jazz in the early 1930s and until his untimely death at the age of 43 in 1953. Reinhardt is considered to be the Godfather of modern guitar, in Jazz as well as in Rock. His playing influenced countless guitarists all over the years and is still considered exemplary today. He is also considered as a pioneer, who made the guitar a central instrument in Jazz. His close ties with the Gypsy folklore and his ability to incorporate it into his playing gave birth to the Gypsy Jazz subgenre, which enjoys tremendous popularity to this very day. But perhaps most importantly he was the first original European Jazz musician of fame and influence, who preceded the birth of European Jazz by three decades. Most of the music in this Box Set was recorded by the Quintette du Hot Club de FranceFind albums by this artist, which Reinhardt co-founded with French violinist and life-time collaborator Stephane GrappelliFind albums by this artist. This revolutionary and pioneering all-strings Jazz quintet demonstrated a completely new approach to Jazz improvisation and thanks to Reinhardt´s and Grappelli´s virtuosity achieved a worldwide following and admiration. Immediately after WW II Reinhardt visited the USA and managed to record with the Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist Orchestra and other American bands; these recordings are also included herein. The contents of this Box Set in undoubtedly some of the most iconic Jazz music ever recorded, which still universally reverberates in contemporary music regardless of genre. Reinhardt´s legend lives on, inspiring young musicians to pick up the instrument and create new sounds, which is exactly what Django would have wanted. Essential stuff for mental health!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

YESHE ~ PIASTOWSKA 1 SONY 887654098221 (Barcode: 887654098221) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 2010 Released: 2012 This is the second album by the Polish ensemble YesheFind albums by this artist, led by the legendary trumpeter / composer Antoni GralakFind albums by this artist, who was a member of such groundbreaking Polish ensembles as Free CooperationFind albums by this artist, Young PowerFind albums by this artist and Tie BreakFind albums by this artist and participated in countless other projects over the years, including leading his ensembles like GraalFind albums by this artist and Yeshe. This incarnation of Yeshe includes also guitarist Piotr PawlakFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Darek MakarukFind albums by this artist who is in charge of a plethora of electronic effects and sampling. The music, all original by Gralak, was recorded live and is dedicated to the Polish pioneering visual Artist Andrzej UrbanowiczFind albums by this artist. Stylistically the music presents a wide spectrum of contemporary musical trends and incorporates such diverse influences as Avant-Garde Jazz, electronic music, Techno, Industrial and World Music. The amalgamated result is a completely original and unique blend, which is fascinating and electrifying from start to finish. The basic formula presents Gralak improvising on top of an ambient / sampled background, which changes from track to track both rhythmically and conceptually. A trained listener will hear many citations form Indian and other Far Eastern Cultures, as well as samples of exotic instruments like sitar, tabla and a plethora of others. Gralak´s trumpet work is nothing short of brilliant and brings immediately memories of his Free Cooperation cohort Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist, who is sadly no longer with us. Throughout the entire duration of this album Gralak improvises almost without a break, in a truly phenomenal form. This album is not only a rare musical gem, but also a wonderful example of completely boundless music, which crosses cultural, stylistic and time borders effortlessly and elegantly. It definitely deserves a much wider recognition that it actually has today. Brilliant stuff!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

RORY GALLAGHER ~ IRISH TOUR `74 (40TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION) SONY 888750048820 (Barcode: 888750048820) ~ IRELAND ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 2014 This is a monumental reissue project, which expands the original double LP live album by the Irish Blues-Rock guitarist / vocalist Rory GallagherFind albums by this artist into a Box Set with seven CDs and one DVD. The material was recorded during the last days of December 1973 and early January 1974 during Gallagher´s tour of Ireland (including Northern Ireland). The DVD presents the spectacular documentary film made by the British film director Tony PalmerFind albums by this artist (who specializes in music documentaries) made during this tour. Gallagher´s group during this tour included pianist Lou MartinFind albums by this artist, bassist Gerry McAvoyFind albums by this artist and drummer Rod De`AthFind albums by this artist. In spite of Gallagher´s idol status in the 1970s, his invaluable contributions to Blues and Rock legacy are today sadly almost forgotten. On stage Gallagher was a force of Nature and his incredible inventiveness and pure magic he managed to produce on his guitar were absolutely colossal. He definitely belongs to the very elite of white Blues guitarist, which also includes Mike BloomfieldFind albums by this artist, Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist, Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, Peter GreenFind albums by this artist and a handful of others. The whole issue of white Blues guitarists excelling in music which has its cradle in the Afro-American cultural legacy is quite fascinating and Gallagher is an extraordinary example how this legacy, which he learned from the very early age was transformed by him into a completely new level due to his talent of combining virtuosity, improvisation and complexity. Since these live shows were recorded only a few days apart from each other, they include quite similar set lists, which of course results in a certain amount of repetition as far as the material is concerned. The beauty of this set is, that each and every performance of the same tune present on these albums is so different from any other that the repetition is not only most welcome, but also extremely educational. These recordings are also a superb example of the spirit of music that was present on stage during the Golden Age, when charismatic and totally dedicated performers were Gods. It was all about music and all the rest (mostly money) was completely secondary. These raw performances had no element of staging or decoration and the only thing that mattered was how well everybody played. These days are sadly utterly gone. This Box Set is a great example of how to make Box Sets work. It includes brilliant top quality material, minimizes the packaging (and subsequently the price) to bare minimum and does not deal with fads and fashions of superfluous sound technologies. This is pure Gold from start to finish, exactly as it was forty plus years ago and it is here to stay forever. Of course this is absolutely essential for all Blues fans everywhere on this globe, a capsule of frozen greatness for us to recollect and for the younger generations to discover. Essential I said? Way beyond essential it is!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 17/01/2016

7CD+DVD 8 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER ~ TRILOGY (DELUXE EDITION) SONY 888750049025 (Barcode: 888750049025) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1972 Released: 2015 This is the fourth album by the supergroup Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which was definitely one of the most important, innovative and revolutionary groups to emerge on the Rock scene as leaders of the Progressive / Art Rock genre by the early 1970s. The group arrived on the scene a bit later than their "accomplices" (YesFind albums by this artist, GenesisFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist and others), since keyboardist Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist / lead vocalist Greg LakeFind albums by this artist and drummer Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist were already prominent members of early / proto Prog bands before the trio combined forces and merged into this formidable ensemble. They definitely were the best fit as far as the simplistic definition of Prog is concerned (i.e. an amalgam of Rock and Classical music), allowing Emerson to fulfill his fascination / obsession with Classical music pieces and even contribute some of his own music set to a similar (i.e. classical) framework. It also allowed Lake to write some of the most memorable Rock ballads and Palmer to beat the hell out of endless drum sets, all of which seemed to delight hordes of Rock (and I mean Rock as opposed to Prog) music listeners the world over. They were all monster musicians, they were at the top of their youthful peak of creativity and they kicked ass, big time! It was great while it lasted, and it did last for about half a decade and six albums, and the legend went sour when these gentlemen failed to realize that it´s over and pressed on, seemingly endlessly, damaging the image of their glorious achievements in the process. But in retrospect, wiser and 45 years older, I still find this music fascinating and powerful, imaginative and bold, and above all artistically sound. This Deluxe Edition spread over two CDs and a DVD-A is sadly another rip-off scheme, which basically adds nothing to the original album. The first CD is the original album; the second CD adds a single alternate version track and offers a new stereo mix of the original album, which is completely redundant. The DVD-A offers the same material in other higher resolution formats, including lossless and 5.1, in short a complete waste of time and plastic, not to mention money. God only knows why these monstrosities are being produced again and again?

2CD+DVD 3 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

CASSANDRA WILSON ~ COMING FORTH BY DAY SONY 888750636225 (Barcode: 888750636225) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015 Celebrating the 100th Birthday of Billie HolidayFind albums by this artist, American vocalist / composer Cassandra WilsonFind albums by this artist dedicates this album to her memory, performing some of the songs forever associated with Lady Day´s career. Of the twelve songs on this album two were written by Holiday and the rest are standards she used to perform often, except for the last song which is an original by Wilson. Wilson is performing these song accompanied by a basic piano trio, which comprises of pianist Jon CowherdFind albums by this artist, bassist Martyn CaseyFind albums by this artist and drummer Thomas WydlerFind albums by this artist. Several guest musicians add their input on selected tracks and lush orchestral arrangements are present on most tracks. The overall atmosphere is rather distant from the Jazz / Blues setting which surrounded the original interpretations of these songs, but sounds more like a cabaret / musical performance. Wilson´s throaty contralto sounds as good as ever of course, but sadly the passion and fire, which are present in Holiday´s performances, are lost in the process of wrapping these songs in cellophane. The album is beautifully overproduced, which means that a lot of listeners will love it to bits, but somehow it is like a meal in a fancy restaurant; you leave hungry but you can´t even think about food any more. Reading the liner notes I realize that there was a lot of good intensions invested in this album…

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

JOE FARRELL ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 888750636829 (Barcode: 888750636829) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1970 - 1975 Released: 2015 This Box Set collects five of the six albums recorded by brilliant American flautist / saxophonist / composer Joe FarrellFind albums by this artist and released between 1970 and 1975 on the legendary CTIFind albums on this label Records label. They are: his debut as a leader and first album "Joe Farrell QuartetFind albums with this title", the second "OutbackFind albums with this title", the fourth "Penny ArcadeFind albums with this title", the fifth "Upon This RockFind albums with this title" and the sixth "Canned FunkFind albums with this title". His third album "Moon GermsFind albums with this title" was separately reissued on CD in 2001 by SonyFind albums on this label. Farrell joined the first incarnation of Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist in 1972 and took part in the recording of their first two legendary albums. The music presented on these five albums falls quite neatly into two separate categories: the first two albums are complex modern Jazz / Jazz-Rock Fusion and even include some Free Form moments, whereas the next three albums are Groove / Funk oriented. The first album ("Joe Farrell Quartet") is especially noteworthy, as it is one of the most important and beautiful documents of the era. Farrell´s quartet, which also included pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist (all from Miles DavisFind albums by this artist electric band) is augmented by the presence of guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist on two tracks, turning the resulting quintet into a mighty power of Nature. It is worthwhile to compare these tracks with McLaughlin´s debut album "ExtrapolationFind albums with this title" or the Jack BruceFind albums by this artist album "Things We LikeFind albums with this title", which also features McLaughlin. Together these three a.m. albums contain some of the most important and powerful music ever made. The second album places Farrell alongside Corea again, but this time with bassist Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist and legendary drummer Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist, with whom Farrell recorded a series of superb albums for the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label between 1968 and 1971. It presents superb modern Jazz and Fusion, played by Masters of the trade. Together with the third album ("Moon Germs"), which is not present in this Box Set, which features Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on piano, Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist on bass and again Jack DeJohnette on drums, and of course his numerous recordings as a sideman, Farrell established his position as one of the leading figures on the US scene. The remaining three albums document the transition Farrell made from modern Jazz / Fusion into Jazz-Funk, which is characterized by more emphasis on melodic content and Funk / Groove rhythmic patterns. Although many of Farrell´s fans had a hard time getting used to this new musical direction, his work in that genre was always top notch, with impeccable musicianship and wonderful compositions. He cooperated with several top players specializing in that specific area, like guitarist Joe BeckFind albums by this artist, bassist Herb BushlerFind albums by this artist and others. In retrospect these albums are classics of the genre, sound superbly fresh today and honestly had very little true competition by anybody else over the years. Farrell, who sadly died in 1986, aged just 48, was definitely an exceptional player and composer, who contributed immensely to American Jazz by constantly searching for new way of expression, ignoring genre constrains and mainstream thinking. This Box Set is an essential listening to every Jazz / Fusion fan on this planet. Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 05/04/2024Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

AL KOOPER ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 888750990723 (Barcode: 888750990723) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1968 - 1972 Released: 2015 This Box Set collects five of the six albums recorded by iconic American singer / songwriter / bandleader / producer Al KooperFind albums by this artist and released between 1968 and 1973 on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label. They are: his debut solo album "I Stand AloneFind albums with this title", the second "You Never Know Who Your Friends AreFind albums with this title", the third "Easy Does ItFind albums with this title", the fourth "New York City (You`re A Woman)Find albums with this title" and the sixth "Naked SongsFind albums with this title". His fifth album "A Possible Projection Of The Future / Childhood`s EndFind albums with this title" remains sadly in its obscurity. It is hard to imagine the shape of American music without Al Kooper, starting from his contribution to Bob DylanFind albums by this artist´s revolutionary early electric era which led to the inception of Rock, via the initiation of Brass Jazz-Rock Fusion with Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, Southern Rock with Lynyrd SkynyrdFind albums by this artist and hundreds of albums he either played on or produced. His exceptional gift for crafting memorable melodies, writing elaborate orchestral arrangements and singing his heart out; all those made him one of the absolute geniuses of the American popular music in the 20th Century. His solo albums are all brilliant collections of superb songs, performed with elegance and zest, full of Kooper´s unique genius. The fact that it took over forty years for these albums to make it to CD, partly for the first time ever, is a sad, sad reminder of our era, where music understanding and appreciation is almost completely lost, giving place to stupidity and ignorance, fads and hypes. I urge everybody to give those five albums a serious listen and discover their beauty, depth and above all musical genius. This is some of the best American music made during the Golden Decade, and the fact that it remains forgotten is a crying shame. Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 05/04/2024Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

JEFF BECK ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 888751056329 (Barcode: 888751056329) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1971 - 1977 Released: 2015 This Box Set collects reissues of five albums by the legendary British guitarist / composer / bandleader Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, originally released on the EpicFind albums on this label label between 1971 and 1977. They are: “Rough And ReadyFind albums with this title” (1971), “Jeff Beck GroupFind albums with this title” (1972), “Blow By BlowFind albums with this title” (1975), “WiredFind albums with this title” (1976) and “Jeff Beck With The Jan Hammer Group LiveFind albums with this title” (1977). Those are the third to seventh albums recorded by Jeff Beck, except the two albums (one studio and one live) recorded by him as part of the short lived Beck, Bogert & AppiceFind albums by this artist trio. The first two albums included here were recorded by the second incarnation of the Jeff Back GroupFind albums by this artist (the first incarnation recorded the first two Back’s albums “TruthFind albums with this title” and “Beck-OlaFind albums with this title”), which included vocalist Bobby TrenchFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Max MiddletonFind albums by this artist, bassist Clive ChamanFind albums by this artist and drummer Cozy PowellFind albums by this artist. Stylistically these were transitional albums between Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion, which was Beck’s main interest in the years that followed. The next two albums present some of Beck’s most admired work as a guitarist, both being purely instrumental and clearly moving deeply into Jazz-Rock Fusion, but with the unique characteristics of his superb sense of melody and fabulous improvisational abilities, which have but a few equals among the world’s guitar heroes. Beck is accompanied by Middleton, bassist Phil ChenFind albums by this artist and drummer Richard BaileyFind albums by this artist on “Blow By Blow” and Middleton and Czech keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, American bassist Wilbur BascombFind albums by this artist and drummer Narada Michael WaldenFind albums by this artist on “Wired”. The live album is a full-blown Fusion affair on which Back is supported by Hammer and an all American team of violinist Steve KindlerFind albums by this artist, bassist Fernando SaundersFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony SmithFind albums by this artist. Not surprisingly the music sounds not far from Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist. Overall this is a real treat to all guitar fans and undeniably some of the most exciting music recorded in the 1970s. Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 31/07/2021Posted: 31/07/2021

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

THEM ~ THE COMPLETE THEM 1964-1967 SONY 888751505421 (Barcode: 888751505421) ~ IRELAND ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1964 - 1967 Released: 2015 This compilation collects all the recordings by the Northern Irish group ThemFind albums by this artist, which owes its fame to the fact that it included the charismatic vocalist Van MorrisonFind albums by this artist as its lead singer and principal songwriter. Both LPs released by the group, all their singles, EPs and a plethora of demos, radio sessions and other rarities are included here, spread over 3 CDs, with the third CD consisting entirely of previously unreleased material. To be honest the title is a bit confusing and incorrect, since Them continued to record after Morrison left the group and their later output is quite interesting musically. But of course Them with Morrison at the helm are another story. Musically Them were quite similar to other early Rock And Roll / Rhythm And Blues bands that swept the British Isles from the early 1960s on. They were perhaps a bit more Blues oriented than others, but basically the sound and melodic approach was pretty ordinary at the time. Of course Morrison´s songs had a catchy side to them and his unique vocals and delivery turned the group into a moderate success story both in Britain and across the pond. The original songs written by Morrison, which are present herein, show his potential as a songwriter, which would fully blossom shortly after he moved on to start his solo career. The limited Pop format was not suitable for his complex poetic lyrics at the time, and only after the music went through Psychedelic Pop, Progressive Rock and the Summer of Love (mind you it all just took only a couple of years), the world was ready for the new poetic Van Morrison. The lineup of the band went through countless changes and during the recording session many musicians from outside the group were used. In the liner notes Morrison talks about it at length and it shouldn´t surprise the more refined listeners to hear Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist on guitar from time to time. Overall this collection is a superb historical document of the era and a must have item for Van Morrison fans. The remastered sound is excellent and the entire affair is a lovely trip down the memory line. Definitely worth investigating!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 10/02/2016

CD 3 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

BOBBY MCFERRIN ~ SPIRITYOUALL SONY 888837183826 (Barcode: 888837183826) ~ USA ~ Gospel Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013 This album by US vocalist / composer extraordinaire Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist is a profound back to the roots examination of his musical path so far and its origins. It presents thirteen songs, seven of which are traditional spirituals, five are his original compositions and one is a Bob DylanFind albums by this artist song. All these songs have a common musical ground, going back to the roots of American music and even deeper back to the African sources of this music. McFerrin is accompanied by a splendid group of instrumentalists, which includes keyboardist Gil GoldsteinFind albums by this artist, who also plays the accordion extensively on this album and who is responsible for the superb arrangements, guitarist Larry CampbellFind albums by this artist, bassists Esperanza SpaldingFind albums by this artist and Larry GrenadierFind albums by this artist and drummers Charley DraytonFind albums by this artist and Ali JacksonFind albums by this artist. Spalding also adds her vocals on several tracks and four background vocalists participate on a couple tracks. McFerrin also uses this album to pay a tribute to his father, Robert McFerrin, Sr.Find albums by this artist who was the first African-American to sing a title role at the Metropolitan Opera. Several of the spirituals covered by Bobby on this album were recorded by his father on his 1957 solo album "Deep RiverFind albums with this title", and receive here a renewed treatment. The entire album is full of spirituality, faith and love, expressed in a humble, honest and most sincere way, without any attempt to preach or convert. It reflects accurately and beautifully McFerrin´s personality, who is one of the kindest and friendliest persons I have ever had the pleasure to meet and spend time with. Musically this album is less adventurous than McFerrin´s earlier work, but of course in this case it is all quite intentional. And yet he gets to display an enormous range of his vocal abilities, singing words, scat, vocalese and uttering sounds, all the above with his usual elegance and eloquence. The instrumental accompaniment is also first-rate, with a unique, mostly acoustic and down to earth sound, which suits this music perfectly, being a perfect example of "less is more". Overall this is a perfect example of an album, which is most entertaining and yet at the same time is superbly executed, intelligent and deeply emotional – a rare event indeed. Every music lover on earth should be able to enjoy this music immensely simply opening the heart and ears at the same time. Thank you Bobby, again!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

BANCO DEL MUTUO SOCCORSO ~ IO SONO NATO LIBERO (LEGACY EDITION) SONY 889854682224 (Barcode: 889854682224) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1973 - 2017 Released: 2017 This is a reissue of the third album by the iconic Italian Prog group Banco Del Mutuo SoccorsoFind albums by this artist, which closed the legendary early album trilogy the group recorded, which includes also the eponymous debut and the album "Darwin!Find albums with this title" and which defines the illustrious origins of the Italian Prog movement together with the early recordings by PFMFind albums by this artist and Le OrmeFind albums by this artist. At the time the album was recorded (1973) the group´s lineup included the founders / keyboardists brothers Vittorio NocenziFind albums by this artist and Gianni NocenziFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marcello TodaroFind albums by this artist, bassist Renato D`AngeloFind albums by this artist, drummer Pier Luigi CalderoniFind albums by this artist and charismatic vocalist Francesco Di GiacomoFind albums by this artist. The album presents only five tracks, including the epic over fifteen minutes long opening track, with all music by Vittorio Nocenzi except one track by Gianni Nocenzi and lyrics by Francesco Di Giacomo and Vittorio Nocenzi. This Legacy Edition is lavishly packaged in a digibook format and includes a booklet with in depth essay and the lyrics (sadly only) in Italian and splendid photographs, as well as a bonus CD, which is described below. Over the years countless reviews of the album were written and published, so there is no point in repeating the obvious praises. It is however important to remember that this music defined the Prog idiom, and took it to its zenith, which as I have repeatedly stated, stays firmly at its place and the Prog genre over the years didn´t manage to go above or beyond it, which perhaps is more of a blessing than a criticism. It is also important to remember that the individuals behind Banco Del Mutuo Soccorso were always socially / politically aware persons and their lyrics touched upon raw nerves more often than not. More on this subject below… The real surprise of this reissue is the included bonus CD, which presents a new and unreleased album recorded in 2017 by the current lineup of the band. Fronted by the original founding member, keyboardist / composer Vittorio Nocenzi, the band also includes lead guitarist Filippo MarcheggianiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Nicola Di GiàFind albums by this artist, bassist Marco CapoziFind albums by this artist, drummer Fabio MorescoFind albums by this artist and lead vocalist Tony D`AlessioFind albums by this artist. The album entitled "La Libertà DifficileFind albums with this title" (Difficult Freedom) presents five tracks, four of which were composed by Vittorio Nocenzi and one was co-composed by Vittorio Nocenzi and his son Michelangelo NocenziFind albums by this artist. It also includes a recorded interview with Vittorio Nocenzi. As the album´s title suggests the subject matter is a reflection upon the issues touched upon in "Io Sono Nato LiberoFind albums with this title" from a forty four years perspective and asks difficult questions like "Che Libertà?" (What Freedom?) and makes somber statements like "…Che Non Si Ferma Mai" (…That Never Sops), which of course reflect the contemporary social / political situation as seen by many people today. The music on the "La Libertà Difficile" album is a wonderful reflection of the classic sound and style of the Banco Del Mutuo Soccorso heyday period. The same approach to melody, harmony and instrumentation appears here, with only slightly updated sound and production techniques, but faithfully preserving the overall retro ambience. The philosophical concept subject matter also returns, adding an intellectual dimension to the entire project. It is a splendid forerunner to the wonderful "TransiberianaFind albums with this title" album recorded by the same lineup two years later. Overall this is a superb package, even for people who already have a copy of the "Io Sono Nato Libero" album, as the bonus "La Libertà Difficile" album and the packaging are absolutely worth having. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 18/05/2019Posted: 18/05/2019

CD 2 Digibook Recommend To A Friend

RORY GALLAGHER ~ NOTES FROM SAN FRANCISCO SONY 90317 (Barcode: 886979031722) ~ IRELAND ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1977 - 1979 Released: 2011 This is a sensational, never previously released album by Irish guitar hero Rory GallagherFind albums by this artist, recorded in the US in 1977 and discarded at the time, now seeing the light of day 35 years later. Gallagher was one of the greatest European Blues-Rock guitar players / songwriters and his illustrious career was tragically cut short by his premature death aged only 47. His recordings, first with the legendary trio TasteFind albums by this artist in the late 1960s and then solo during the 1970s / 1980s are superb examples of genius and absolute dedication to the music. Performing mostly within the power trio format, Gallagher was both technically brilliant as a player and possessed superb feeling for both the Blues and Rock music. This release, expanded with a recording of a live concert performed at the same period, is beyond doubt an excellent addition to his admirable recorded legacy. A must to his fan base and Blues-Rock followers around the globe!

CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

CHICK COREA ~ RENDEZVOUS IN NEW YORK – THE MOVIE SONY BMG 681801 (Barcode: 828768180198) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2001 Released: 2003 To celebrate his 60th Birthday, legendary Jazz musician Chick Corea organized a series of concerts in December 2001 at the famous NY Blue Note Club, which presented a retrospective look at his entire career. He reassembled some of his past groups and musical associations and formed nine different line-ups, which include a wide range of music from Free Jazz to Fusion. Three duet performances were also organized, with singer Bobby McFerrin, pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba and vibraphonist Gary Burton. All the performances were recorded and filmed and the material was released as a 2CD album and a series of DVDs with the individual performances. In addition this film - documenting the entire process - was made, which in addition to excerpts from the concerts includes also numerous interviews with musicians associated with Chick Corea over the years. It is a splendid piece of Jazz history, full of great music and packed with information. Essential to all Chick Corea’s fans. Dolby Digital 4.0 Surround Sound and DTS, 107 minutes. NTSC

Updated: 26/08/2020Posted:

DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend

SOFT MACHINE ~ FIFTH (EXPANDED EDITION) SONY BMG 687290 (Barcode: 828768729021) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene Recorded: 1971 - 1972 Released: 2007 5th album, which is also the first Soft MachineFind albums by this artist recording following Robert WyattFind albums by this artist’s departure from the group. Elton DeanFind albums by this artist enlisted the Australian drummer Phil HowardFind albums by this artist as Wyatt’s replacement. Howard played on Dean’s first album (Just UsFind albums with this title) recorded just a few month earlier and seemed a natural choice. However, after playing with the band for a few months in 1971 and then recording about half of the tracks on this album, the rest of the group felt that Howard’s free style didn’t feel completely right with their Jazz-Rock explorations and decided to look for a replacement. Fortunately they were able to enlist the absolutely best Jazz-Rock drummer on the UK scene at the time, John MarshallFind albums by this artist, who was a member of the fabulous Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist. Marshall brought to the band not only his amazing technique, but also more importantly his inventiveness and stability, which would serve as the perfect basis for the other members’ improvisations. The band completed the rest of the tracks on this album with Marshall at the drum chair. No horn-section was employed on this album, but the double bass player Roy BabingtonFind albums by this artist was used again to strengthen the rhythm section and allow more freedom and space for Hopper’s explorations. The album includes shorter pieces (in contrast to the LP’s sidelong tracks of ThirdFind albums with this title and FourthFind albums by this artist), creating a much more concise and focused musical opus, surely one of the best SM ever recorded. Listening to this album today will perhaps restore for some listeners the full glory it deserves, which was often overlooked by critics and fans alike, which usually prefer the Third album. This beautiful new remaster improves the original sound tremendously and the bonus track (alas only one) is a gem. Absolutely essential!

CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

SOFT MACHINE ~ FOURTH (REMASTERED) SONY BMG 687291 (Barcode: 828768729120) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007 4th album, which finds Soft MachineFind albums by this artist back in the quartet format with Elton DeanFind albums by this artist as the new permanent member. Following the direction set on the previous album, SM moved even further away from their original psychedelic direction into experimental Jazz-Rock, which was groundbreaking and innovative to the extreme and aeons ahead of its time. In similar fashion to the previous album, the band used a horn-section to utilize a much more powerful sound and limitless sonic possibilities, which included the creme de la creme of (then) contemporary and burgeoning young UK jazz scene, including Roy BabingtonFind albums by this artist – acoustic bass, Nick EvansFind albums by this artist – trombone, Mark CharigFind albums by this artist – cornet, Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist – saxes and Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist – saxes. This expanded ensemble recorded one of the most beautiful and most sophisticated albums of the era, which is completely timeless and inspiring to this very day. This new direction created some tension (to put it mildly) between the jazz oriented trio and the band’s original drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, which led to Wyatt’s departure from the band by mid-1971 (to start Matching MoleFind albums by this artist), before the next album would be recorded. Therefore this was to be the last SM album to feature his extraordinary drumming skills. This beautiful new remaster finally (for the first time ever) gets rid of the muddy and hollow sound from which this album suffered badly, obscuring much of the music it contained. Absolutely essential! Visitors' Comments Christopher  Brice It´s great to hear this properly at last - I have been listening to it over and over again since I broke the seal last night!

CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

SOFT MACHINE ~ THIRD (EXPANDED EDITION) SONY BMG 687293 (Barcode: 828768729328) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007 3rd album by Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, originally released as a double LP. Although basically a trio at this point (Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist & Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist) they use a horn-section to expand the sound of the band, which includes among others Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (soon to be a full time SM member) and Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist (brother of Pye HastingsFind albums by this artist from CaravanFind albums by this artist). The music is of course one of the most pivotal recordings of the era and widely accepted as one of the greatest epics of Prog and Canterbury music, with brilliant improvisations and incredibly strong writing. Almost entirely instrumental, with Wyatt`s occasional scatting, this album marks the band’s transition from early psychedelic pop / rock to Jazz-Rock and later eventually to free jazz. With constantly changing lineup the band managed in the span of just a few months, between late 1969 and early 1970, to create an entirely new genre in itself, as nothing else done by any other band would ever sound similar to Soft Machine (of that period). This music is as revolutionary and groundbreaking as the stuff Miles DavisFind albums by this artist was creating at the time on the other side of the pond, and equally brilliant. The beautiful new edition adds a full bonus CD, which contains a live recording at the Royal Alert Hall (August 1970), done by the BBC (a trademark of sonic quality), previously unreleased. An absolute masterpiece, beyond essential!

CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

SOFT MACHINE ~ SIX (REMASTERED) SONY BMG 687591 (Barcode: 828768759127) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene Recorded: 1972 Released: 2007 6th album by Soft MachineFind albums by this artist released originally as a double LP. Soon after recording FifthFind albums with this title, SM was facing more personnel changes with Elton DeanFind albums by this artist leaving the band to pursue his free jazz vocation. His replacement was another ex-NucleusFind albums by this artist founding member Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist. Jenkins was a classically trained musician with exceptional gift for composing beautiful melodies. In addition he was also a multi-instrumentalist and therefore was able not only to replace Dean on saxes, but he also played beautiful oboe and both acoustic and electric piano. The addition of Jenkins was a decisive factor for SM, adding to the band for the first time a touch of professionalism and virtuosity, this in addition to the great spontaneity and vitality the group always possessed. Jenkins turned out to be the group’s most prolific writer and more than half of the music on the new album was his contribution. The new lineup started touring immediately after Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist completed the recording sessions for his first album (1984Find albums with this title) and some of the shows were recorded with the intention of serving as part of the new album (first LP of the set). In late 1972 the group recorded the studio material for the album (second LP of the set), returning to the format of longer and more complex tunes. The music on this album is quite different from what SM played on ThirdFind albums with this title, FourthFind albums with this title and Fifth: it is much more melodic and atmospheric and of course not as much free jazz oriented. In fact this is one of the most essential examples of Jazz-Rock Fusion ever recorded, a direction SM was to follow from now on. This beautiful new remaster improves the original sound tremendously. Absolutely essential!

CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

TREES ~ ON THE SHORE (EXPANDED EDITION) SONY BMG 705765 (Barcode: 886970576529) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007 2nd and final album by UK Folk-Rock group TreesFind albums by this artist. Although Trees existed for just a brief period of time – formed in 1969 and disbanded in early 1972 – they managed to release two seminal albums, which are considered classics of the genre. Trees had some similarities with other contemporary Folk-Rock ensembles (PentangleFind albums by this artist, Fairport ConventionFind albums by this artist, Steeleye SpanFind albums by this artist, etc.): they were fronted by an exceptional female vocalist (Celia HumphrisFind albums by this artist) and they played arrangements of traditional British folk tunes in addition to their self-penned material. But there were also important differences, which made them unique: they were strongly influenced by the Psychedelic movement and they used a strong lead electric guitar (Barry ClarkeFind albums by this artist) rather than acoustic instruments. In retrospect both of their albums kept formidably the original magic over the years and are worthy of a special place in any serious Folk-Rock album collection. The bonus disc added to this beautiful edition is also quite unique and interesting: Following a sampling of one of the album’s songs by a contemporary pop group in 2006, the album returned to public attention with a bang. The original group members decided to remix most of the original album, adding (mostly) keyboards (Bias BoshellFind albums by this artist) and some guitar to bring the album up to contemporary sound. The result is quite brilliant and surprising. Although touching original material can be considered sacrilegious, in this case it works wonderfully. An early demo track and a BBC recording are also added. Definitely a treasure!

CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

TREES ~ THE GARDEN OF JANE DELAWNEY (EXPANDED EDITION) SONY BMG 735671 (Barcode: 886973567128) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2008 1st album by the little known UK Folk-Rock band TreesFind albums by this artist, which recorded just two albums before it disbanded. Trees followed the formula set by other contemporary Folk-Rock bands, like Fairport ConventionFind albums by this artist, Steeleye SpanFind albums by this artist and PentangleFind albums by this artist), with female vocalist (Celia HumphrisFind albums by this artist) fronting the band, a repertoire consisting both of traditional British folk and self-penned material, mostly by the band´s bassist Bias BoshellFind albums by this artist. The main difference was the use of lead electric guitar (Barry ClarkeFind albums by this artist), which was featured much more prominently than other representatives of the genre usually allowed for, as well as the Psychedelic influence of the period, which other Folk-Rock bands largely ignored. Altogether a beautiful album and a classic of the genre, now finally remastered and expanded with four bonus tracks, two of which are recent recordings of songs that the band intended to include on this album, but never did. This is a long awaited reissue, which all Folk-Rock enthusiasts will find indispensible for their collection and enjoy immensely.

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

MANAL ~ MANAL SONY BMG 738049 (Barcode: 886973804926) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008 This is the 1st album by the great Argentinean Blues-Rock trio ManalFind albums by this artist, which consisted of guitarist Claudio GabisFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Alejandro MedinaFind albums by this artist and drummer Javier MartinezFind albums by this artist. The group was one of the founders and pioneers of Argentinean Rock and was often referred to as the "Argentinean CreamFind albums by this artist" due to the stylistic similarity. The music, which was written mostly by Martinez, was performed with passion and a lot of technical skill. The guitar improvisations were quite Jazzy at times and always very imaginative. In retrospect this is a great gem, not only of the Argentinean scene but the entire early South American Rock history. Losing absolutely nothing of its magic and energy over time, this is till a great listen today, worthy of any serious album collection. A must!

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ALMENDRA ~ ALMENDRA SONY BMG 738668 (Barcode: 886973866825) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008 This is the 1st album by the great Argentinean proto-Prog group AlmendraFind albums by this artist, the first "true" Rock group in the country, which together with groups like Los GatosFind albums by this artist, ManalFind albums by this artist and Vox DeiFind albums by this artist pioneered the genre in their country. The group was fronted by the charismatic and highly talented vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Luis Alberto SpinettaFind albums by this artist and also included guitarist Edelmiro MolinariFind albums by this artist (who later founded another great group Color HumanoFind albums by this artist), bassist Emilio Del GuercioFind albums by this artist and drummer Rodolfo GarciaFind albums by this artist (the last two later founded the great group AquelarreFind albums by this artist). They played a beautiful mixture of sophisticated Rock, Psychedelia and lyricism, supported by poetic lyrics written by Spinetta, which at the time were in complete contrast to the banality which ruled Pop music. Forty years later this album is still considered a masterpiece and in retrospect this truly charming music lost nothing of its beauty and appeal over the years and is definitely worthy of an honorable place in any serious Prog collection.

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ALMENDRA ~ ALMENDRA 2 SONY BMG 738985 (Barcode: 886973898529) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008 This is the 2nd and last album by the great Argentinean proto-Prog group AlmendraFind albums by this artist, the first "true" Rock group in the country, which together with groups like Los GatosFind albums by this artist, ManalFind albums by this artist and Vox DeiFind albums by this artist pioneered the genre in their country. The group was fronted by the charismatic and highly talented vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Luis Alberto SpinettaFind albums by this artist and also included guitarist Edelmiro MolinariFind albums by this artist (who later founded another great group Color HumanoFind albums by this artist), bassist Emilio Del GuercioFind albums by this artist and drummer Rodolfo GarciaFind albums by this artist (the last two later founded the great group AquelarreFind albums by this artist). They played a beautiful mixture of sophisticated Rock, Psychedelia and lyricism, supported by poetic lyrics written by Spinetta, which at the time were in complete contrast to the banality which ruled Pop music. Originally released as a double LP, this album was much more progressive than the debut and forty years later is still considered a masterpiece and in retrospect this truly charming music lost nothing of its beauty and appeal over the years and is definitely worthy of an honorable place in any serious Prog collection.

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

MANAL ~ EL LEON SONY BMG 741539 (Barcode: 886974153924) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008 This is the 2nd album by the great Argentinean Blues-Rock trio ManalFind albums by this artist, which consisted of guitarist Claudio GabisFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Alejandro MedinaFind albums by this artist and drummer Javier MartinezFind albums by this artist. The group was one of the founders and pioneers of Argentinean Rock and was often referred to as the "Argentinean CreamFind albums by this artist" due to the stylistic similarity. The music, which was written mostly by Martinez, was performed with passion and a lot of technical skill. The guitar improvisations were quite Jazzy at times and always very imaginative. In retrospect this is a great gem, not only of the Argentinean scene but the entire early South American Rock history. Losing absolutely nothing of its magic and energy over time, this is till a great listen today, worthy of any serious album collection. A must!

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

SOFT MACHINE ~ SEVEN (REMASTERED) SONY BMG 768729 (Barcode: 828768729229) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene Recorded: 1973 Released: 2007 7th album, which was the last recording Soft MachineFind albums by this artist did for CBSFind albums on this label. Following the release of SixFind albums with this title veteran SM member Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist announced his departure from the group. Hopper was not happy with the direction the group was taking, namely the less adventurous and jazz oriented Jazz-Rock, which dominated Six. Being a bold innovator and restless explorer, Hopper’s idea of well-organized and structurally sound music was unacceptable, and he decided to leave. For the third time in a row the band enlisted to their ranks a replacement from the band NucleusFind albums by this artist, this time the bass player Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist (who already participated on FourthFind albums with this title and FifthFind albums with this title). He switched from his acoustic bass to a six-string bass guitar and his integration into the band was completely smooth and natural, as he was already familiar with John MarshallFind albums by this artist and Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist. The music, written mostly by Jenkins and Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, is more Jazz-Rock than ever, with rather shorter, but extremely well structured and perfectly executed pieces. The keyboards duets and quirky rhythm patterns are the familiar Jazz-Rock devices used, similar to other groups which played similar music at the time. Contrary to the general opinion, which states that this album is not as strong as the previous SM releases, I personally completely disagree and consider this to be as essential as all the other CBS recordings with some of the best and most memorable SM tunes on it. After this album SM switched to the Harvest label, recording several Jazz-Rock albums featuring guitar players Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist and later John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist, all of which are still waiting for proper remaster. Essential!

CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

ASAF AVIDAN / MOJOS ~ POOR BOY TELMAVAR 003-1 (Barcode: 7290013013132) ~ ISRAEL ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009 2nd album by Israeli singer / songwriter Asaf AvidanFind albums by this artist and his band The MojosFind albums by this artist, recently snatched and singed by SonyFind albums on this label where this album will be released internationally in a few months from now. It was pretty obvious that one of the Majors will sign Avidan, as he obviously is now one of the most original singers in the entire world – a bold statement, but true nevertheless. His debut album left critics and audiences around the world stunned and sold a staggering number of copies, even though it wasn´t quite "easy" music at all. But Avidan´s incredible and completely unique voice and his unusual approach to vocal expression simply make him stand out like a beacon of light in the deep of the night. As good as the debut album was this one surpasses it magnificently, mainly due to the strength of the new material – all penned and composed by Avidan – which is much more mature, developed and diverse than the material on the debut album. Add to this the intelligent and perfectly executed musical arrangements, which involve both acoustic and electric instruments, and you get a monster album, which should satisfy any true music lover regardless of his usual music preferences. There is a bit of everything here: Blues, Rock, shades of Alternative and even shades of Prog, all beautifully amalgamated together, creating an enchanting listening experience. But words are not adequate to truly describe this music, simply get a copy and enjoy! Satisfaction guaranteed! Note: This album was released under two different titles – "Poor BoyFind albums with this title" and "Lucky ManFind albums with this title", with different packaging, but the musical content is identical! Slightly confusing, but a lot of fun!

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

ASAF AVIDAN / MOJOS ~ LUCKY MAN TELMAVAR 003-2 (Barcode: 7290013013118) ~ ISRAEL ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009 2nd album by Israeli singer / songwriter Asaf AvidanFind albums by this artist and his band The MojosFind albums by this artist, recently snatched and singed by SonyFind albums on this label where this album will be released internationally in a few months from now. It was pretty obvious that one of the Majors will sign Avidan, as he obviously is now one of the most original singers in the entire world – a bold statement, but true nevertheless. His debut album left critics and audiences around the world stunned and sold a staggering number of copies, even though it wasn´t quite "easy" music at all. But Avidan´s incredible and completely unique voice and his unusual approach to vocal expression simply make him stand out like a beacon of light in the deep of the night. As good as the debut album was this one surpasses it magnificently, mainly due to the strength of the new material – all penned and composed by Avidan – which is much more mature, developed and diverse than the material on the debut album. Add to this the intelligent and perfectly executed musical arrangements, which involve both acoustic and electric instruments, and you get a monster album, which should satisfy any true music lover regardless of his usual music preferences. There is a bit of everything here: Blues, Rock, shades of Alternative and even shades of Prog, all beautifully amalgamated together, creating an enchanting listening experience. But words are not adequate to truly describe this music, simply get a copy and enjoy! Satisfaction guaranteed! Note: This album was released under two different titles – "Poor BoyFind albums with this title" and "Lucky ManFind albums with this title", with different packaging, but the musical content is identical! Slightly confusing, but a lot of fun!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

MILTON NASCIMENTO ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES WARNER BROS. 825646519385 (Barcode: 825646519385) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1994 - 2002 Released: 2013 This Box Set collects five of the albums by the Brazilian singer / songwriter Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist released between 1994 and 2002. They are: "AngelusFind albums with this title" from 1994, "AmigoFind albums with this title" from 1995, "NascimentoFind albums with this title" from 1997, "Tambores De MinasFind albums with this title" from 1998 and "PietaFind albums with this title" from 2002. Nascimento is undoubtedly one of the greatest World Music artists of all times and his genius needs no introduction. As far as Brazilian music is concerned, he was (and still is of course), in retrospect, its most distinguished and elaborate ambassador. In contrast to other Brazilian musicians / composers, who represented certain Brazilian localized styles, like samba or bossa nova, Nascimento always presented the essence of Brazilian music and above all its spirit, full of melodic, lyrical melancholy. His exquisite melodies are often among the finest pieces of music created by man. From his early days Nascimento was connected with Jazz and his early albums are all superb pioneering examples of Jazz-World Fusion. These later albums, included here, are still very jazzy and feature many distinguished Jazz musicians from Brazil and other parts of the world. Overall there is not a single weak moment on these fine albums and Nascimento manages to keep his fountain of creativity flowing as if time stood still for him. Absolutely brilliant stuff! Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend