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Reviews Written By: A1UWGR88UD16Z6

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	Horrors Of Spider Island
	"Lame and Tame."	2008-08-16
Although released as Horrors of Spider Island, the 77-minute version released by Something Wierd Video through Image Entertainment, has the title "It's Hot In Paradise." But, don't be confused, both are retitles for the original German-made film "Ein Toter Hing Im Netz," (One Corpse Hangs in the Web). First and foremost, don't believe the marketing propaganda touting this as a sci-fi or horror film. This is just a low-budget B-movie with some lame love stories involving a lost troupe of dancers stranded on a South Pacific island who are discovered and rescued by two, alleged research scientists. Meanwhile, the dance troupe manager is bitten by a radioactive spider and turns into a furry-face, manaical killer. The script is lame as is the acting and in places the editing of the short version released in the USA. Since this is a low-budget production, not much ever happens and the little action is both lame and pedestrian. The only redeeming quality is the girls --- big, curvy frauleins. It is difficult to imagine why this film is considered "camp" or "bad" as in good. This is just a low-budget B-movie, nothing more. The restored print by Something Weird Video is almost pristine but does not save this stinker. Regardless of Mystery Science Theater 3000 status, this is neither funny, ridiculous or entertaining. Anyone who elevates this into the league of Plan 9 From Outer Space, is either delusional or has been bitten by a radioactive spider. There are much better or worse films than this,such as Corridors of Blood or Haunted Strangler, both starring Boris Karloff; or, Fiend Without A Face. And if you like curvy girls, then watch Joi Lansing in Atomic Submarine. So, save your money and time for something enjoyable rather than something lame.
	Phantom from Space
	"Substandard release"	2008-08-07
Specifically regarding the DVD released by Alpha Video. The source print was poor and the DVD picture quality ranges from substandard to fair but the entire film has a soft image which is some segments is very soft with much surface noise. Dark scenes are very noisy and soft which is very distracting as they look like as if transferred from a worn VHS videocassette. So, only purchase if you are willing to watch a substandard image and don't bother buying if you have an HD screen.
	Sarah McLachlan - Surfacing
	"Sensational Sarah"	2008-07-15
Surfacing is one of Sarah's early albums, released during 1997 by Arista. If you are unfamiliar with Sarah or want a good introduction, this is an excellent album to buy. It was produced, recorded and mixed by Pierre Marchand and both the recording and mix are excellent. This album is worthy of an expensive stereo system or headphones. I recommend buying the audio CD over the MP3s unless of course you only listen to MP3s. But, standard MP3 is an inferior medium, especially for this album. However, regardless of what you buy, you will not be disappointed unless of course you are a metalhead, or a hair band or rap fan.
	George Harrison, George Harrison - All Things Must Pass [DIGI-PAK EDITION]
	"Thank you George."	2008-07-15
The 30th anniversary boxed-set edition was remastered by George Harrison and is much better than the original 1970 release. As a bonus you get a booklet written by George, explaining his views about the old and new versions. Plus, you get bonus tracks not included on the original release. This was and is George's best solo album and this version is as good as it gets. As you may know, the original recordings made shortly after the Beatles dissolved, featured Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, Klaus Voorman. Dave Mason, Badfinger, Billy Preston, Ginger Baker, Phil Collins, Bary Brooker and others. I could go on endlessly trying to explain why this album is great and worth purchasing or repurchasing if you still have the original version. All I can say is, spend the twenty dollars. You will not regret it. This album will last a lifetime. Thank you George. We miss you.
	George Harrison, George Harrison - All Things Must Pass [BOXED EDITION]
	"Thank you George."	2008-07-15
The 30th anniversary boxed-set edition was remastered by George Harrison and is much better than the original 1970 release. As a bonus you get a booklet written by George, explaining his views about the old and new versions. Plus, you get bonus tracks not included on the original release. This was and is George's best solo album and this version is as good as it gets. As you may know, the original recordings made shortly after the Beatles dissolved, featured Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, Klaus Voorman. Dave Mason, Badfinger, Billy Preston, Ginger Baker, Phil Collins, Bary Brooker and others. I could go on endlessly trying to explain why this album is great and worth purchasing or repurchasing if you still have the original version. All I can say is, spend the twenty dollars. You will not regret it. This album will last a lifetime. Thank you George. We miss you.
	Golden Years of Classic Television Vol. 1: Make Room for Daddy
	"Seminal sitcom"	2008-07-13
Make Room For Daddy starring Danny Thomas is one of the seminal situation comedies. The superb scripts transcend time and still deliver quality entertainment. This disc from Cascadia Entertainment of Canada features four episodes: Weekend with a Star; Birthday Surprise; Big Nose; and, Loverboy. Picture quality ranges from fair to good with Loverboy being the best episode. Other companies have released better quality episodes. But, these are not as bad as the other reviewer states or those from Alpha. This disc sometimes appears at $1 stores and is worth a dollar. If you can buy it for less than $2 on Amazon plus shipping, you will not be disappointed if you like old, classic, black-and-white sitcoms. In spite of the other reviewer's opinion regarding Cascadia, some of their Western film releases are decent and again better than Alpha. I am not defending or endorsing poor quality programs on DVD, but the problem is simple economics for all these companies releasing old, public domain programs. None of the retail outlets pay more for good quality programs and there are too many companies releasing similar product. So, there is little incentive to spend money on quality source prints, wet-gate film transfers and digital restoration. Would you pay $14.95 for four or five episodes of Make Room for Daddy?
	Neil Young - Decade
	"Rockin' in the free world"	2008-01-03
Tremendous collection of three albums on two discs totaling 35 tracks. Although, these are all early albums and this collection was first-released during 1977, this is a spectacular boxed-set and sets the bar that few have matched. Look at the song list and you will be amazed by the number of classic hits ranging from Cinnamon Girl to Cowgirl in the Sand to Old Man to Cortez the Killer. Considering the price for used discs, this is an incredible bargain. Buy it now, don't wait. You'll be glad you did.
	Lou Rawls - Stormy Monday
	"Smooooth as silk"	2007-11-20
Lou's first album, first released during 1962, plus the reissue has three previously unreleased tracks: Blues Is a Woman; A Little Les of Lou's Blues; and, an alternate take of Stormy Monday. Lou had signed with Capitol Records during 1961 after Nick Venet, A&R scout for Capitol, watched him perform at Pandora's Box in Los Angeles. Les McCann is on piano; Leroy Vinnegar on bass; and, Ron Jefferson on drums. They are great. This album is the epitome of pre-Beatlemania in Hollywood clubs of the early 60s. And, Lou is great. What a voice. If you want background music for a romantic dinner or evening, this album should be on the top of your list. But, don't just wait for a special occassion. Buy this album and enjoy the incredible and talented Lou Rawls. You'll be glad you did.
	Badfinger - Day After Day: Live
	"Only for fanatical fans."	2007-10-23
Overdubbing and resequencing do not save this limp outing by the original band members in Cleveland during 1974. I am sure if the audience is less enthusiastic than the band but, this is far from a rousing performance and sounds more like a rehearsal. Perhaps it was playing Cleveland or perhaps the band was about to unravel but there is little energy. Although the performance is competent it is not something you will play more than once unless a fanatical fan. If it difficult to believe the source is the original 16-track master tape which Joey Molland kept at his house until 1990. It should have remained there under lock and key. But, than again, fans would have always believed that it was the lost holy grail rather than evidence confirming the crime.
	Daniel Boone, Trail Blazer
	"Worth a dollar"	2007-04-14
This film has been released by Digiview, the company which supplies all the $1.00 DVDs sold at Walmart. The source print for their transfer was in good condition and the color is equally good. Although, the print or transfer is slightly soft it is not distracting. This is superior to many other titles available for $1.00 and is good entertainment for the entire family, especially young children, as there are songs sung by children. It is both good and bad that you can buy this for one dollar. Obviously, it is great for the consumer but it just shows how fast the retail price has declined for DVDs and in turn that makes the business increasingly difficult for producers and distributors. Of course at a retail price of $1.00 it eliminates piracy, so you will not find less expensive versions from China or Korea.
	Daniel Boone-Trail Blazer
	"Worth a dollar"	2007-04-14
This film has been released by Digiview, the company which supplies all the $1.00 DVDs sold at Walmart. The source print for their transfer was in good condition and the color is equally good. Although, the print or transfer is slightly soft it is not distracting. This is superior to many other titles available for $1.00 and is good entertainment for the entire family, especially young children, as there are songs sung by children. It is both good and bad that you can buy this for one dollar. Obviously, it is great for the consumer but it just shows how fast the retail price has declined for DVDs and in turn that makes the business increasingly difficult for producers and distributors. Of course at a retail price of $1.00 it eliminates piracy, so you will not find less expensive versions from China or Korea.
	Daniel Boone:Trail Blazer
	"Worth a dollar"	2007-04-14
This film has been released by Digiview, the company which supplies all the $1.00 DVDs sold at Walmart. The source print for their transfer was in good condition and the color is equally good. Although, the print or transfer is slightly soft it is not distracting. This is superior to many other titles available for $1.00 and is good entertainment for the entire family, especially young children, as there are songs sung by children. It is both good and bad that you can buy this for one dollar. Obviously, it is great for the consumer but it just shows how fast the retail price has declined for DVDs and in turn that makes the business increasingly difficult for producers and distributors. Of course at a retail price of $1.00 it eliminates piracy, so you will not find less expensive versions from China or Korea.
	Daniel Boone:Trail Blazer
	"Worth a dollar"	2007-04-14
This film has been released by Digiview, the company which supplies all the $1.00 DVDs sold at Walmart. The source print for their transfer was in good condition and the color is equally good. Although, the print or transfer is slightly soft it is not distracting. This is superior to many other titles available for $1.00 and is good entertainment for the entire family, especially young children, as there are songs sung by children. It is both good and bad that you can buy this for one dollar. Obviously, it is great for the consumer but it just shows how fast the retail price has declined for DVDs and in turn that makes the business increasingly difficult for producers and distributors. Of course at a retail price of $1.00 it eliminates piracy, so you will not find less expensive versions from China or Korea.
	Daniel Boone-Trail Blazer
	"Worth a dollar"	2007-04-14
This film has been released by Digiview, the company which supplies all the $1.00 DVDs sold at Walmart. The source print for their transfer was in good condition and the color is equally good. Although, the print or transfer is slightly soft it is not distracting. This is superior to many other titles available for $1.00 and is good entertainment for the entire family, especially young children, as there are songs sung by children. It is both good and bad that you can buy this for one dollar. Obviously, it is great for the consumer but it just shows how fast the retail price has declined for DVDs and in turn that makes the business increasingly difficult for producers and distributors. Of course at a retail price of $1.00 it eliminates piracy, so you will not find less expensive versions from China or Korea.
	Spook Town
	"Dark and dirty"	2007-03-12
Specifically regarding Alpha Video DVD of Spook Town which originally was released by PRC during 1944 starring Dave "Tex" O'Brien. This is a very entertaining film but unfortunately not his version released by Alpha. The source print was substandard and there are many outdoor and indoor scenes that have little contrast and are very dark. Also, the source was a worn 16mm dupe which is soft and has much surface noise plus, the soundtrack has much noise and cracks. In some scenes the surface noise is very heavy and the picture shifts or vibrates. This is only for desperate or semi-blind fans of Dave O'Brien. And if you do waste your money buying such, then plan on watching on a nine-inch or smaller screen. If you don't care about quality, don't spend more than one dollar or you will be greatly disappointed. Hopefully, the Western Channel broadcasts this film because it is worth watching.
	Star Packer/Lucky Texan
	"buyer beware"	2007-03-09
Specifically regarding Star Packer w/Lucky Texan on one DVD from Westlake Entertainment. Even at $0.25 plus $2.59 shipping, this is only for those who are going to watch on a nine-inch or smaller television screen. Both source prints are soft dupes with much surface noise and drop-outs. Both films are worth watching if you buy better versions. These are early John Wayne, five-day wonders cranked out for Lone Star Pictures during the mid-1930s. John is supported by George "Gabby Hayes" and Yakima Canutt. The story lines are fairly simple but entertaining. If you can find this at a Dollar Store and don't care about quality, then these will suffice. But don't watch on a big screen and certainly not on an HD screen. So, thumbs up for the films but thumbs down for this DVD.
	Introductory Algebra With Basic Mathematics: Student Solutions Manual
	"One of the best."	2006-12-27
The 2nd edition was printed during 1996 by Houghton Mifflin but remains one of the best review textbooks, especially for anyone who has been out of school or away from mathematics and basic algebra. There are many review textbooks but this uses an interactive approach with emphasis on problem-solving solutions. In laymen terms, it means each section is divided into objectives with matched-pair examples for every problem. The first example is solved and the second is not but a complete detailed solution is at the end of the book. Also, problem solving features clear, sequenced applications that emphasize proven strategies. Moreover, applications feature contemporary problems. The problems are clearly and simply presented. Each section features a diagnostic quiz, with solutions at book end. I particularly like this book more than others because the problems start with simple examples and progress to difficult. Also, all rules and other important information are highlighted in blue boxes. I think this book is better than Kaplan or Princeton Review algebra review books. Also, if you are going to enroll in Kaplan's SAT or GRE tutorial programs, I highly recommend you purchase and use this book before commencing Kaplan. Their programs are very good but they review Algebra 1, 2 and Geometry in just eight lessons. It is too much too quick unless you have a good foundation. Kaplan does not do a good job of teaching. Rather their forte is reviewing. Anyone, planning SAT, ACT, or GRE tests should buy this book especially since used editions are very inexpensive and can be found via fetchbook dot info.
	Panasonic DMR-ES10K DVD Recorder
	"DVD for you and me"	2006-10-27
This recorder-player far outperforms my other players and recorders plus several that I returned because of various programming problems. The player plays discs that my other machines (Toshiba, Apex and Mintek) reject. And, if you want to transfer your VHS tapes to DVD, this does it well and easily. There may be better machines but as yet I have no reason to upgrade or change. I bought this on July 15, 2005 from Amazon and have used almost daily without any problems. Recently I connected it to a new Philips 26PF5321D LCD flat-panel TV, which produces an excellent picture. Remember this is a recorder and play deck, so the price is much higher than regular decks. I previously purchased two different DVD-VHS combo units and returned both because they were substandard at best.
	Various Artists - 80's Energy: Mixed By Johnny Budz
	"Put on your dancing shoes."	2006-07-14
These mixes still move the feet and shake the booty. A few are less than great but overall most still get into the groove. My only criticism is that most of these tracks are in the 3:00 - 4:00 minute range and too short for real dancing. However, Johnny Budz is a real mixer not some poseur so the tracks really segue rather than lame fade-outs and fade-ups. And, for the low price this album offered, it is a real bargain. If you recognize any of the tunes, then there will be a few that amuse. I am not going to review each track because they are all dance club versions and either you like or want such. Otherwise just move on. However, if you need some recommendations or a few tunes for your girlfriend to shake her booty then you will enjoy Here Comes the Rain Again, This Love Never Dies,and Moogue's interpretation of David Bowie's China Girl is awesome with the bass pumped. I wish this album had an extended dance club version because at 3:01 it is just beginning to rock. Hey Johnny, give us the real dance club gooves not the radio versions. I promise you will play some of these tracks many times if you buy this.
	The House of Groove
	"rhythm is the answer"	2006-06-22
Classic album with some tracks that still really move the feet or inspire the soul. However, other tracks don't stand the test of time. If you don't recall SNAP, you will after listening to track 1 "rhythm is a dancer". Excellent, as is track 5, "the power" also by SNAP. If you want more SNAP buy the 2-disc European compilation "power of snap" rather than the usa single disc. Track 3 is the former huge hit "what is love" by Haddaway and is always enjoyable but no longer spectacular. Track 7 "jump" by Movement still is good. Track 8 is "james brown is dead" by L.A. Style and I think it is fading with age but that is my opinion. Track 9 is a live version of "3 a.m. eternal" by The KLF and it still grooves excellento. Track 11 is "spiritual high" by Moodswings and it is still superb. I am much less enthusiastic about the tracks by Annie Lennox, Soul System, TLC,and Dr Alban. For $0.01 - $0.50 plus shipping, means that this is still a bargain if you don't own the tracks. Otherwise just buy the SNAP 2-disc comp and Moodswings Psychedelicatessen and you will have all you need to stay in the groove.
	Fatboy Slim - You've Come A Long Way, Baby
	"dancing in the streets"	2006-02-12
I was not a Fatboy fan prior to buying this album and only bought such after the Chemical Brothers endorsed it during a magazine interview. If you desire something that will make you move your feet without listening to frantic fast-paced BPM tracks then buy this album. Also, the production and mixing are superb. While this is an "old school" album it is still contemporary and best of all, enjoyable. Fatboy is phat and far better than almost anything released by Def Jam.
	Echo & the Bunnymen - Crystal Days: 1979-1999
	"Shining stars"	2006-02-12
I was not a Bunnymen fan before purchasing this boxed set but it quickly changed my mind. While Bunnymen fans are intimately familiar with the many chart-making songs, many people like me have forgotten such but will be delighted upon again hearing. Plus, there are so many great songs which I was previously ignorant. And, I love the cover versions of hits such as Paint It Black, In the Midnight Hour, All You Need Is Love, and Heroin. While the price may seem high, you can occassionally find this collection or $32 - $33 and it is worth every dollar, especially since each CD has 16 - 20 tracks. There is so much good material that it would take pages to write reviews. Thankfully this collection allows the Echo to reverberate.
	The Golden Age of Underground Radio
	"Ultimate trip"	2005-01-25
more than a nostalgia trip. more like opening an old suitcase and finding bars of gold. a real treasure if you remember san fran in the good old days or just want to recapture the vibes. and DJ tom donahue is a nice addition to the tracks. i cannot stop playing this CD. i had forgotten the great songs by the youngbloods, byrds and donovan. but besides those gems you get the 11 minute version of Time by the Chambers Brothers. Tune in, turn on, drop out. The Brothers are psychedelisized. Wow. Buy this CD and I guarantee you will be groovin' down Haight Street or in your mind. Peace and love.
	Vietnam:We Were Heroes
	"True Story"	2003-09-08
Three discs with 4.5 hours of video plus complete Order of Battle for all units that were part of 1st Cav in Viet Nam or attached to 1st Cav. Very valuable info for children or relatives of vets. All films were shot by U.S. Army combat cameramen, so this is the real story not Hollywood hype or comic book fantasies. Also, this is not the film "Platoon" or the revisionist history of "We Were Soldiers". These are all official U.S. Army documentaries plus captured VC and NVA footage. If you were really in the Cav in NAm, you will truly enjoy these films. Otherwise, wait for China Beach to be released on DVD.