CD Review: Black Veil Brides "Wretched and Divine- The Story of the Wild Ones"

Black Veil Brides
“Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones”
Lava/Universal Republic
Producers: John Feldman
Tracks: 19

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

The break out hard rock/heavy metal band Black Veil Brides are back with their 3rd full-length release titled “Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones” which is the follow up release to the bands successful 2011 album “Set the World on Fire”. The new release is a concept based album featuring 19 tracks produced by John Feldman that are based around the story of the Wild Ones a group of outcasts trying to defend themselves from an entity know as F.E.A.R.

I was really excited to get my copy of the new Black Veil Brides album as I have been following the various updates and postings from the band about the album via their social media sites. The part I was not so excited for was the fact that it was going to be a concept based record. These very rarely go well for bands and have the potential to alienate even the most diehard fans. Well sadly “Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones” failed to impress me for the most part. Gone were the metal tinged songs reminiscent of the bands “We Stitch These Wounds” release. Instead the band seems to have traded in their edginess and gritty sound for pianos ballads and over the top production. I did find the tracks “Shadows Die” and “Nobody’s Hero” to be more to my liking as they were probably a couple of the heavier tracks on the album. Don’t get me wrong I enjoy albums that contain a lot of production however it really has to be done in moderation.

Though “Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones” maybe be too much of a departure from the sound that brought the band in to the mainstream it shouldn’t be totally discredited. The concept behind the album is one that I am sure a lot of listeners can relate to and may have dealt with at some point in their lives. That alone makes the album worth checking out. Anything after that is up to the listener to decide.

Track Listing:
1.) Exordium
2.) I Am Bulletproof
3.) New Year’s Day
4.) F.E.A.R. Transmission 1: Stay Close
5.) Wretched and Divine
6.) We Don’t Belong
7.) F.E.A.R. Transmission 2: Trust
8.) Devil’s Choir”
9.) Resurrect the Sun
10.) Overture
11.) Shadows Die
12.) Abeyance
13.) Days are Numbered
14.) Done For You
15.) Nobody’s Hero
16.) Lost It All
17.) F.E.A.R. Transmission 3: As War Fades
18.) In The End
19.) F.E.A.R. Final Transmission

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CD Review: Hatebreed "The Divinity of Purpose"

Hatebreed
“The Divinity of Purpose”
Razor and Tie
Producers: Hatebreed, Zeuss, Josh Wilbur
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Bridgeport, Connecticut’s hardcore heavy weights Hatebreed are back with their latest release titled “The Divinity of Purpose”. The album is the follow up release to the bands 2009 self titled album “Hatebreed” and will be the group’s first release via Razor & Tie Records. Produced by the band along with Zeus (Shadows Fall, Soulfly) and Josh Wilbur, “The Divinity of Purpose” features 12 all new tracks that are bubbling over with brutality.

After a 4 year wait Jamey Jasta and the boys of Hatebreed are back! “The Divinity of Purpose” is an instant throwback to the bands late nineties hardcore hay days. Jasta’s vocals are top notch and seem to only get better with each new album while he bands line-up of Frank Novinec, Chris Beattie, Matt Byrne, Wayne Lozinak are a fine tuned machine that is firing on all cylinders. Songs such as “Put It To The Torch” and “Before The Fight” have all the classic elements of the band’s sound while taking it a step or two further. Co-Producers Zuess and Josh Wilbur do a great job of capturing the heaviness of each performance both vocally and musically which only added to the appeal of the album.

“The Divinity of Purpose” is two parts early Hatebreed and 2 parts modern making for a really great listen. Even if you haven’t kept up with the band over the years but want to check out what they are up to these days have no fear as though the songs are new and fresh they still retain all the vital elements of the original Hatebreed sound we all know and love.

Track Listing:
1.) Put It To The Torch
2.) Honor Never Dies
3.) Own Your World
4.) The Language
5.) Before The Flight
6.) Indivisible
7.) Dead Man Breathing
8.) The Divinity of Purpose
9.) Nothing Scars Me
10.) Bitter Truth
11.) Boundless (Time To Murder It)
12.) Idolized and Vilified

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CD Review: Anthrax "Anthems" EP

Anthrax
“Anthems”EP
MRI/Megaforce
Producers: Jay Ruston, Rob Caggiano
Tracks: 8

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

For months we have been hearing rumblings of an Anthrax EP consisting of various classic rock staples and on March 19th the wait will finally be over. “Anthems” produced by Jay Ruston and Rob Caggiano features 6 classic rock covers and 2 versions of the song “Crawl” which first appeared on the bands Grammy nominated album “Worship Music”. Though the songs chosen to appear on the release might not be the biggest hits from the original artist’s catalog’s fans of both groups will surely appreciate the edgy renditions that are fresh while still staying true to the original versions.

Being a fan of cover songs/albums I have been keeping tabs on this release since speaking with Anthrax lead singer Joey Belladonna at this summer’s Mayhem Festival. Though he couldn’t give me too many details at the time I was quite pleased with what I heard on “Anthems”. Probably my favorite track off the EP is the song “Big Eyes” which was originally written and recorded by Cheap Trick. The haunting choruses instantly grab you and before you know it your singing along and pounding your fist. I also enjoyed the remix of “Crawl” which features a more orchestral arrangement making the song sound very robust. The other songs contained on the release are not to be discredited as they all feature very strong performances and production however they seem to be common staples that a lot bands cover so I probably could have done without hearing another version of AC/DC’s “TNT”.

If you’re a diehard Anthrax fan or just a fan of the originals and looking for a fresh spin on some great songs do yourself a favor and grab the digital version of the release or for the more traditional music listeners head to the store and pick up a hard copy of the EP which will feature one of 6 “re-imagined” album covers created by Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante and artist Stephen Thompson.

Track Listing:
1.) Anthem
2.) TNT
3.) Smokin’
4.) Keep On Runnin’
5.) Big Eyes
6.) Jailbreak
7.) Crawl (Album Version)
8.) Crawl (Remix)

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CD Review: Dropkick Murphys "Signed and Sealed in Blood"

Dropkick Murphys
“Signed and Sealed in Blood”
Born & Bred Records
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

The boy’s from Boston are back with their 8th studio album titled “Signed and Sealed in Blood”. The album is the follow up release to the bands 2011 release titled “Going Out In Style”. “Signed and Sealed in Blood” is the second release to carry the name of the bands own label Born & Bread Records which features 12 new tracks produced by Ted Hutt (Gaslight Anthem, Flogging Molly).

Right off the bat you are catapulted in to the album with a rousing call to arms type of song titled “The Boys Are Back”.  The song seems quite fitting as the album is the bands first studio release in 2 years. From there the sound changes to the more traditional Irish sound the band has been known for as of late. Songs such as “Rose Tattoo” and “Jimmy Collins’ Wake” feature more traditional instrumentation while songs such as “Burn” and “My Hero” are more reminiscent of the bands earlier punk recordings. Probably my favorite track off the album is “The Season’s Upon Us”. Vocalist/bassist Ken Kelly does a wonderful job telling a very tongue and cheek tale of holiday get together’s gone wrong and not so pleasant encounters with family members. It was nice to finally here someone hit the nail on the head by describing the un-pleasantries of the holidays while the rest of the band perform upbeat instrumentation that still makes you feel good about the season no matter how bad it can be.

“Signed and Sealed in Blood” may be a bit too much of a departure from the bands punk rock roots for some listeners however; it’s great to watch a band like Dropkick Murphys progress with the ever changing musical climate. Remembering back to the mid 90’s when I first discovered the band I don’t think they would still be as relevant as they are now if they didn’t break out of the mold that a lot of bands were following in those days. Progression is crucial in the music business as fans don’t want to keep buying the same album year after year. “Signed and Sealed in Blood” does not feature the Dropkick Murphys of 1998 but it does showcase the supped up 2013 edition.

Track Listing:
1.) The Boys Are Back
2.) Prisoner’s Song
3.) Rose Tattoo
4.) Burn
5.) Jimmy Collins’ Wake
6.) The Season’s Upon Us
7.) The Battle Rages On
8.) Don’t Tear Us Apart
9.) My Hero
10.) Out On The Town
11.) Out Of Our Heads

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CD Review: A Sound of Thunder "Queen of Hell EP"

A Sound of Thunder
“Queen of Hell EP”
Release Date: January 29, 2013
Nightmare Records
Running Time: 22 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Last year A Sound of Thunder really delivered the goods with their breakout record “Out of the Darkness”. So I was already surprised to see new material so soon. Damn though, this is some sick shit!! This EP really comes jam-packed with 22 minutes of some really amazing music. Nina Osegueda really delivers some killer vocals and Josh Schwartz is fucking fierce on the guitar. This band is really taking over the metal world and I can’t wait see what they have planned for their forthcoming full-length album “Time’s Arrow”. This group never rests and maybe that is a good thing since I can’t seem to get enough of them…keep it coming guys!

Producer Kevin ‘131’ Gutierrez worked with the band again after deliver the gem of an album “Out of the Darkness”. The new material works as a great companion to the last album. This EP has this really strong classic power metal feel to it. The title track “Queen of Hell” is just a wild rollercoaster ride from the moment it starts. The vocals and guitar work just are hardcore and in-your-face. If you like the track there is also a duet version featuring guest vocals by Veronica Freeman (Benedictum). If you are a Black Sabbath fan, then your will enjoy their great rendition of “Trashed”. Schwartz has said a lot of their influences is from Sabbath, so it is nice to see them pay the song some great homage. “Hello Nurse” is the most different and risky song for them but it pays off, as it is totally rocking! If you are a metal fan, there is no way in hell that this album won’t get you rocking out! Get those devil horns because you are going to need them!

If you have yet to give A Sound of Thunder a listen this is a perfect time to start.  The band is going to be playing live dates throughout the US in early 2013 to promote this new EP, with further extensive touring planned for later in 2013 to promote “Time’s Arrow”. So I cannot recommend this album any more. I found myself just listening to it over and over on loop and it just works so well.  Sometimes when I listen to albums I find myself skipping songs, but this one literally has been looping for over an hour during the writing of this review alone.  This band has done some much in such a short amount of time.  Imagine what they are going to have completed in another five years! Get ready cause this group is full steam ahead and they are giving metal music a run for its money!

Track Listing:
1: Queen of Hell (Album Version)
2: Queen of Hell (featuring Veronica Freeman)
3: Hello Nurse
4: Trashed (Black Sabbath cover)

CD & Vinyl editions can be ordered via the band’s official store

 

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CD Review "Les Misérables: Highlights From The Motion Picture Soundtrack"

“Les Misérables”
Highlights From The Motion Picture Soundtrack
Release Date: December 21, 2012
Label: Universal
Total Length: 1:05:22

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Here is the issue with album is right in the title: “Les Misérables: Highlights From The Motion Picture Soundtrack”. Highlights is main issue here.  It is really missing just way to much from this film. I actually really liked this film and literally it is 2 hours and 40 minutes of non-stop music performances. This album delivers a very abridged version of it just running over an hour. I feel like we are loosing way too much in this very trimmed version. I mean there are 49 musical numbers in the film and only 20 tracks are available here.  I am sure this album with be a hit like the film itself nonetheless just getting a chance to own “some” of the music but for me…it is just not enough. If are a die-hard fan of the Original Broadway Cast Recording, then be warned this is quite different.  You are either going to love it completely or hate it.

Right from the start with “Look Down”, it is such an epic and amazing track in the film that is cut down to barely even a proper song.  It starts and ends so abrupt that it almost hurts to hear. I have to say though, the best part of this entire soundtrack is Russell Crowe.  That’s right Russell Crowe.  He is the saving factor for this entire soundtrack if not the entire movie.  Anne Hathaway is quite amazing and her version of “I Dreamed a Dream” (with no camera cuts in the film) is nothing short of heart-breaking and stunning.  I love Hugh Jackman and I have seen him on Broadway a few times, so we now the guy can sing.  I know that the director Tom Hopper wanted to make this raw and real but Jackman’s tracks don’t sit right with me.  Maybe his voice isn’t strong enough to hit some notes on these songs.  I feel that he aims to talk his way through some of the lyrics – some not all “Valjean’s Soliloquy” is a great track.

If you are a fan of this film, you will enjoy hearing a few tracks.  Me personally, like I said I have about six songs in a playlist and have been revisiting those over and over.  Since I figure that there are tons are track already missing…so what is the difference.  Most importantly, I want to throw in where the hell is “Do You Hear the People Sing”. How can that song be left out? Wow! Probably the biggest let down of this whole release. No joke, this album only received 3 out of 5 stars due to the fact that Russell Crowe kicks major ass!! You listen to his version of “Stars” and “Javert’s Suicide” and tell me that his voice doesn’t rule.  It is fierce and strong.  I wish the rest of the album turned out like that. I will hold my breath for the complete soundtrack being released.

Track Listing:
1. Look Down – Hugh Jackman
2. The Bishop – Colm Wilkinson
3. Valjean’s Soliloquy – Hugh Jackman
4. At The End Of The Day – Hugh Jackman
5. I Dreamed A Dream – Anne Hathaway
6. The Confrontation – Hugh Jackman
7. Castle On A Cloud – Isabelle Allen
8. Master Of The House – Sacha Baron Cohen
9. Suddenly – Hugh Jackman
10. Stars – Russell Crowe
11. ABC Cafe / Red And Black – Eddie Redmayne
12. In My Life / A Heart Full Of Love – Amanda Seyfried
13. On My Own – Samantha Barks
14. One Day More – Les Misérables Cast
15. Drink With Me – Eddie Redmayne
16. Bring Him Home – Hugh Jackman
17. The Final Battle – Les Misérables Cast
18. Javert’s Suicide – Russell Crowe
19. Empty Chairs At Empty Tables – Eddie Redmayne
20. Epilogue – Les Misérables Cast

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CD Review: Hollywood Undead "Notes from the Underground"

Hollywood Undead
“Notes from the Underground”
A&M Records/Octone
Producers: Griffin Boice, Danny Lohner, S*A*M, Sluggo
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

The masked rock/rap group known as Hollywood Undead is back with their latest offering titled “Notes From The Underground”. The album is the follow up to the groups 2011 release “American Tragedy” and is being released via A&M/Octone Records. Produced by Griffin Boice, Danny Lohner, S*A*M and, Sluggo the 11 tracks contained on “Notes From The Underground” cover an immense amount of musical territory. From rolling anthem filled ballads to in your face thrash the band has provided its listeners with a little bit of everything. Be sure to check out our interview with Hollywood Undead vocalist Johnny 3 Tears, here.

At first listen the album at times can seem a little hokey however after spending a little more time listening to the tracks they really start to sink their hooks in. Tracks such as “Lion” which starts off with a light and simplistic piano/drum/vocal section quickly transforms in to a catchy sing along chorus
that would be right at home on popular radio. While the album’s first single “We Are” is a bit darker and features more rap infused vocals and is very reminiscent of songs found on the group’s debut release “Swan Songs”. The choice of using multiple producers can at times be risky however it has appeared to have paid off this time as the 11 tracks blend seamlessly from one to another. If you are a fan of albums that take you from point A to point B while hitting all stops in between “Notes From The Underground” will fit perfectly into your playlist rotation.

Track Listing:
1.) Dead Bite
2.) From the Ground
3.) Another Way Out
4.) Lion
5.) We Are
6.) Pigskin
7.) Rain
8.) Kill Everyone
9.) Believe
10.) Up in Smoke
11.) Outside

 

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CD Review “TRON: Uprising” (Music from and Inspired by the Series)

Composer: Joseph Trapanese
Release Date: January 8, 2013
Label: Walt Disney Records
Total Length: 1:15:42

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

If you are looking expecting Daft Punk’s score from “TRON: Legacy”, you might be disappointed, but this is the closest thing to it.  The composer for “TRON: Uprising” is Joseph Trapanese, who worked with Daft Punk on the film’s score and worked as arranger and orchestrator for “TRON: Legacy”. So this soundtrack of music that is inspired from the series, takes on its own life.  It is not just the same thing again, it takes the feel of the animated series and really amps it up.

Personally, I feel that there are a few tracks that I enjoyed much more than the film score. Since this series is the bridge between “TRON” and “TRON: Legacy”, Trapanese does a nice job of blending Wendy Carlos with Daft Punk. Must listen for all “TRON” fans! After working with Daft Punk for two years on the “TRON: Legacy” score, Trapanese really knows what works best for this series.  In this TV series he also has more room to play since the show’s scale is much broader and not limited to a two hour movie. The album contains remix tracks that were chosen by Trapanese personally. The last track “Rezolution” by Hollywood Records’ rising EDM star, 16-year-old – Cole Plante is a very unique track and a nice end to the album.

“Scars” is a a two-part episode that was a very important arc for the series.  There is a lot of focus on this episode with tracks seven through thirteen.  I really enjoyed this suite and it is easily my favorite aspect on the album. So like I said earlier this album is not Daft Punk’s “TRON: Legacy” score but it takes aspect from that and expanded its reach into The Grid.  If you are a fan of this series, then you have heard the score through out the season so far.  This release is an answered prayer, I really hope that this isn’t the last release either.  I would love to see another volume in the future, hopefully.  Now we just need to get Disney XD to release this show on Blu-ray!

Track Listing:
1. Beck’s Theme – Lightbike Battle
2. Tesler Throwdown
3. Paige’s Past
4. Lux’s Sacrifice
5. Price Of Power
6. Rescuing The Rebellion
7. Dyson Drops In (Scars Suite)
8. Tron’s Promise (Scars Suite)
9. Tron’s Turn (Scars Suite)
10. Beck Betrayed (Scars Suite)
11. Torture (Scars Suite)
12. Revenge (Scars Suite)
13. Redemption (Scars Suite)
14. Goodbye Renegade
15. Compressed Space
16. Renegade’s Pledge – End Credits
17. Lightbike Battle (3OH!3 and JT Remix)
18. Inferno (Opiuo Remix)
19. Dyson (David Hiller Remix)
20. Rezolution – Cole Plante

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CD Review “Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained” – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

“Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained”
Various Artists
Release Date: December 18, 2012
Tracks: 23
Label: Universal Republic

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I have been a Quentin Tarantino fan film since day one.  His films also come with the most interesting music and his soundtracks never let down.  “Django Unchained” is definitely no different. It comes packed with a wide-variety of music and seven tracks of specific dialogue from the film.  I used to love the “Pulp Fiction” soundtrack for that same reason.  I love how the music is so perfectly chosen that it also helps describe the type of film that this is.  Since this has the ole’ spaghetti western-style feel, we get some of that feel and then completely on the other side there are rap songs. So there is a little bit for everyone here. And if you know Quentin Tarantino then you will not be disappointed by this soundtrack.

The star of this soundtrack besides Ennio Morricone’s beautiful score tracks is the brand new mash-up of James Brown and 2Pac on the track “Unchained (The Payback / Untouchable)”.  This song is so exciting and gets you completely pumped up.  Honestly, I think this track is worth the purchase of the soundtrack alone.  It is also perfectly placed, of course, after Elisa Toffoli’s very quiet “Ancora Qui”.  This is a like an explosion and it does let up for almost 3 minutes.  I would have loved for it to run more like 6-7 minutes, thank God for loop. Did I also mention that Samuel L. Jackson has some nice dialogue tracks, which takes me pack to 1995 with “Pulp Fiction”…”English motherfucker! Do you SPEAK IT!”.  You will literally want to run out and see this film immediately after listening to this soundtrack or if you’ve seen it, it is a perfect companion to chill out to after watching this film.

Track Listing:
1. Winged – James Russo
2. Django – Luis Bacalov
3. The Braying Mule – Ennio Morricone
4. “In The Case Django, After You…” – Christoph Waltz
5. Lo Chiamavano King (His Name Is King) – Luis Bacalov
6. Freedom – Anthony Hamilton
7. Five-Thousand-Dollar Nigga’s And Gummy Mouth Bitches – Don Johnson
8. La Corsa (2nd Version) – Luis Bacalov
9. Sneaky Schultz And The Demise Of Sharp – Don Straud
10. I Got A Name – Jim Croce
11. I Giorni Dell’ira – Riziero Ortolani
12. 100 Black Coffins [Explicit] – Rick Ross
13. Nicaragua – Jerry Goldsmith
14. Hildi’s Hot Box – Samuel L. Jackson
15. Sister Sara’s Theme – Ennio Morricone
16. Ancora Qui – Elisa Toffoli
17. Unchained (The Payback / Untouchable)- James Brown
18. Who Did That to You? – John Legend
19. Too Old To Die Young – Brother Dege (AKA Dege Legg)
20. Stephen The Poker Player – Samuel L. Jackson
21. Un Monumento – Ennio Morricone
22. Six Shots Two Guns – Samuel L. Jackson
23. Trinity (Titoli) – Annibale E I Cantori Moderni

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CD Review “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Special Edition)

Composer: Howard Shore:
Original Release Date: December 11, 2012
Number of Discs: 2
Format: Special Edition
Label: WaterTower Music

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

If you are a fan of “The Lord of the Rings” scores, then I am sure that you do not even need my thoughts for “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”.  This fits right in line with the past Middle Earth adventure scores from the master composer Howard Shore.  When I saw this film in theaters, I was literally blown away from the score and I am one to keep an eye out for a good score.  I love the blend that this score has between the action and the drama from the film.  I think it really captures the film very well and should leave any fan very satisfied.

The Special Edition of the soundtrack includes six bonus tracks that are not on the regular version. I have to say these tracks actually add quite a bit to the overall score and even include an additional track sung by the Dwarfs – “Blunt the Knives”. Also what is a Peter Jackson film, without an Extended Version? This soundtrack includes seven extended tracks as well. They really add to the scale of the film, especially on the first disc including “An Unexpected Party”.

“The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” sounds unique from “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy while still visiting certain cues that hang on to that special feeling. I found myself smirking and repeating the certain tracks that had that aspect. I have to admit though, ever since watching the trailer over a year ago and hearing the Dwarfs singing “Misty Mountains” in Bilbo’s house. I have been obsessed with that song. It is literally my favorite track on the album that is not a orchestral piece. If you go with this album I highly recommend this Special Edition release for sure!

TRACK LISTING:
Disc 1
1. My Dear Frodo
2. Old Friends (Extended Version)
3. An Unexpected Party (Extended Version)
4. Blunt the Knives (Exclusive Bonus Track) – The Dwarf Cast
5. Axe or Sword?
6. Misty Mountains – The Dwarf Cast & Richard Armitage
7. The Adventure Begins
8. The World is Ahead
9. An Ancient Enemy
10. Radagast the Brown (Extended Version)
11. The Trollshaws (Exclusive Bonus Track)
12. Roast Mutton (Extended Version)
13. A Troll-hoard
14. The Hill of Sorcery Howard Shore
15. Warg-scouts Howard Shore

Disc 2:
1. The Hidden Valley
2. Moon Runes (Extended Version)
3. The Defiler
4. The White Council (Extended Version)
5. Over Hill
6. A Thunder Battle
7. Under Hill Howard Shore
8. Riddles in the Dark
9. Brass Buttons
10. Out of the Frying-Pan
11. A Good Omen Howard Shore
12. Song of the Lonely Mountain (Extended Version) Neil Finn
13. Dreaming of Bag End
14. A Very Respectable Hobbit (Exclusive Bonus Track)
15. Erebor (Exclusive Bonus Track)
16. The Dwarf Lords (Exclusive Bonus Track)
17. The Edge of the Wild (Exclusive Bonus Track)

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CD Review: James Taylor “James Taylor At Christmas (Extra Tracks)”

James Taylor
“James Taylor At Christmas”
Label: Universal Music Enterprises
Tracks: 14
Release Date: October 30, 2012
Running Time: 50 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“James Taylor At Christmas” was released back in 2006 and it is being released this year with two new tracks.  The first track is Taylor’s French rendition of “O Christmas Tree” titled “Mon Beau Sapin”, which is only available on this collection. The second track isn’t really a Christmas track per se but it is Beatles cover for “Here Comes The Sun” with cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Still a fantastic and moving track. Also appearing the album are talented guest starts including Chris Botti, Natalie Cole and Toots Theilemans. This album has always been successful in getting into the holiday spirit over the years and I am sure it will continue now with this expanded release.

This collection includes some really great holiday favorites performed within Taylor’s unique sound.  There is a jazzy renditions of both “Winter Wonderland” and “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”.  “The Christmas Song” (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) is really a perfect track for the holidays. Natalie Cole and Taylor deliver a wonderful duet with “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”.  I have to say though my favorite track is the cover of Joni Mitchell’s “River” and my least favorite is still “Go Tell It On the Mountain”, which is the one I always skip. The album also ends perfectly with the New Year’s classic “Auld Lang Syne”. James Taylor’s voice is really a nice marriage with the Christmas season.  I personally am a fan of simple and quiet Christmas songs and there is something for everyone here.  This will leave you not only inspired and but also full-blown in the holiday mood.

Track Listing:
1. Winter Wonderland
2. Go Tell It On The Mountain
3. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
4. Jingle Bells
5. Baby It’s Cold Outside
6. River
7. Here Comes The Sun
8. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
9. Some Children See Him
10. Mon Beau Sapin
11. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)
12. Who Comes This Night
13. In The Bleak Midwinter
14. Auld Lang Syne

 

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CD Review: John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John “This Christmas”

John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John
“This Christmas”
Label: Universal Music Enterprises
Tracks: 13
Release Date: November 13, 2012
Running Time: 44 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John are back.  It has been 35 years since their last duet “You’re The One That I Want” in “Grease”. The track in fact just became the best-selling duet in pop music history, so it is only right that they join forces again. “This Christmas” is a newly recorded album featuring some great Christmas favorites with guest appearances from amazing talent including Barbara Streisand, Tony Bennett, Kenny G and James Taylor! So is this reuniting as sharp and hot as it was in “Grease”? Not really, but it is Christmas, so I have to give this duet some points for at least sharing their Christmas spirit.  It is a little cheesy here and there but that is what Christmas is about and this album really captures it and aims to deliver a smile to everyone listening.

The CD includes twelve classic covers of Christmas songs and even a brand new original track titled “I Think You Might Like It”.  It is composed by John Farrar and set as a sequel to their famous smash hit. I got to tell you the track is worth the price of the CD alone. It is a really fun up-tempo pop track.  Olivia Newton-John’s voice sounds great still. John Travolta is not at his prime since “Grease” but still sounds decent, though I can’t help but smirk a little when he comes on.   Other great tracks are “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” with Kenny G on horns. “Silent Night” is nicely paced and beautiful duet. Barbara Streisand joins in for the jazzy take on “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”. “Winter Wonderland” is a real gem and big-band feel with Tony Bennett and the Count Basie Orchestra and of course the best Christmas duet is “Baby It’s Cold Outside”, it is a great album opener.

So this might not be the best Christmas album ever, but it does what it is suppose to.  With Christmas right around the corner, it spreads some great Holiday cheer. I also love the reuniting of John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John, they are really cute together and seem to be having a lot of fun together. I have a feeling that this album will be a yearly revisit each year.  What makes this worth wild is that Travolta and Newton-John are donating the artist proceeds from the album equally to their respective charities, the Jett Travolta Foundation and the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre in Melbourne, Australia. So not only is this a cheesy-yet fun collection of Christmas songs but it is also helping a good cause. I recommend this for sure!

Track Listing:
1. Baby It’s Cold Outside
2. Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree
3. I’ll Be Home For Christmas
4. This Christmas
5. Silent Night
6. The Christmas Waltz
7. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
8. Winter Wonderland
9. White Christmas
10. I Think You Might Like It
11. The Christmas Song
12. Deck The Halls
13. Auld Lang Syne/Christmas Time Is Here (Medley)

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, christmas, john, newtonjohn, olivia, review, ...

CD Review “Skyfall: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack”

Author: Thomas Newman
Release Date: October 22, 2012
Label: Sony Classical
Tracks: 30
Running Time: 77 minutes

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

2012 brings us the 50th anniversary of 007 James Bond.  When it comes to James Bond, the music have always been so important.  The theme songs are always memorable and epic. But even beyond that the scores have to move along the film with a specific feeling.  This score disappoints quite a bit and doesn’t really scream “Bond…James Bond“. The score does run almost 80 minutes over the 30 tracks but I just wish it was more effective throughout instead of just 80 minutes of dull music. “Breadcrumbs” is the best track on here but that is one because it is a homage to past Bond scores.

Firstly, let’s get the cat out of the bag and point out that Adele’s title track is not on this score.  Right off the bat, I am left with a bad taste in my mouth.  That track would have been a nice kick-off for this album and an incentive to purchase this score.  I understand they want to sell some singles for the track but I would have liked it to also be included here.  Secondly, I am not a fan of Newman’s score at all. He is typically a very well respected composer but I enjoy his scores like “American Beauty” and “The Shawshank Redemption”.  They have this  certain quieter and simple feel but still very epic.  “Skyfall” tries to be epic and ends up just feel like it is trying to hard.

Track Listings
1. Grand Bazaar, Istanbul
2. Voluntary Retirement
3. New Digs
4. Severine
5. Brave New World
6. Shanghai Drive
7. Jellyfish
8. Silhouette
9. Modigliani
10. Day Wasted
11. Quartermaster
12. Someone Usually Dies
13. Komodo Dragon
14. The Bloody Shot
15. Enjoying Death
16. The Chimera
17. Close Shave
18. Health & Safety
19. Granborough Road
20. Tennyson
21. Enquiry
22. Breadcrumbs
23. Skyfall
24. Kill Them First
25. Welcome to Scotland
26. She’s Mine
27. The Moors
28. Deep Water
29. Mother
30. Adrenaline

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, motion, original, picture, review, skyfall, ...

CD Review “Lincoln: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack”

Composer: John Williams
Release Date: November 6, 2012
Label: Sony Classical
Tracks: 17
Running Time: 55 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Lincoln” is composed and conducted by the legendary John Williams, also long time collaborator with Steven Spielberg. I feel that the album really captures the essence of the movie. It is also performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Overall the score itself is very simple, quiet and packs a hell of a finale running 11 minutes. Though within that quietness it has this very epic and inspiring feel. Of course there is also the classic call of music from the period like the drums and fiddle of the Civil War. I did feel like getting up saluting and marching throughout a few tracks.

This is actually the 40th anniversary of duo working together if you can believe it. I have been a fan of Williams’ score and his notable signature is found all over this score for sure. “The Race to the House” contains excerpts arranged and performed by Jim Talyor and is a fun track. “With Malice Toward None” is another great track but I really have a sweet spot for the last track, which is a very sharp piano solo of the track. In another plus, the booklet on the CD really tells a story in itself.  It comes stocked with wonderful shots from the film, as well as a really nice and informative foreword from Steven Spielberg. Overall “Lincoln” is yet another successful collaboration with Williams and Spielberg.  This one will surely spend a few months on my iPhone.

Track Listings
1. The People’s House
2. The Purpose of the Amendment
3. Getting Out the Vote
4. The American Process
5. The Blue and Grey
6. “With Malice Toward None”
7. Call to Muster and Battle Cry Of Freedom
8. The Southern Delegation and the Dream
9. Father and Son
10. The Race to the House
11. Equality Under the Law
12. Freedom’s Call
13. Elegy
14. Remembering Willie
15. Appomattox, April 9, 1865
16. The Peterson House and Finale
17. “With Malice Toward None”(Piano Solo)

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, lincoln, motion, original, picture, review, ...

CD Review: MxPx “Plans Within Plans”

MxPx
“Plans Within Plans”
Rock City Records
Tracks: 13

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Plans Within Plans” is the 9th studio album by the pop punk band MxPx. The album is the follow up release to the bands 2007 release “Secret Weapon”. The album features 13 new tracks and is the band’s debut release via Rock City Records.

The 3 boys/men from Bremerton, Washington are back with their latest musical offering which is chocked full of that MxPx signature pop/punk sound we have all come to know and love. Right off the bat “Plans Within Plans” catapulted me back to 1995 when I first discovered this band. The groups sound has remained unchanged over the years and could be compared to your favorite pair of jeans. They just fit. Songs such as “Aces Up”, “Best of Times” and “Lucky Guy” cover everything from lost loves and friendships to youthful hopes and dreams. Though I enjoyed most of the tracks on the album I would have liked to have heard a little bit more diversity and growth especially from a band now on its 9th album. I understand the thoughts of if it ain’t broke don’t fix it and not wanting to alienate fans however, this is punk rock! Stretch your legs and experiment a little. At the same time certain things are better left unchanged and MxPx may be one of those things. Long time fans will quickly find solace in the new album while new fans will be exposed to the classic pop/punk experience MxPx is known for.

Track Listing:
1.)    Aces Up
2.)    Screw Loose
3.)    Nothing Left
4.)    The Times
5.)    In The Past
6.)    Best of Times
7.)    Stay on Your Feet
8.)    Lucky Guy
9.)    Far Away
10.)  Cast Down My Heart
11.)  When It Comes to You
12.)  Inside Out
13.)  Nothing’s Gonna Change

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, mxpx, plans, review
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