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Reviews Written By: A2Q4XG9UABH3S3

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	Boz Scaggs - Greatest Hits Live
	"Intimate Boz"	2009-08-20
I will be the odd one in this long serie of extremely positive reviews, where everyone gives five out of five. First, why I am not totally satisfied with this collection. - Having most of what Boz Scaggs has released, there are some things I like more than others. Obviously, on a CD-DVD titled "Greatest Hits", you are expected to hear just that, his greatest hits. You do hear and see several of his greatest songs, but why is the album Some Change completely ignored ? Again, a selection is just that, taking in some and letting others out but I would have kept at least "sierra" instead of "I just go", or "lend me a dime", or even the ultra heard "we're all alone", also performed by Rita Coolidge if I remember well. "Heart of mine" is generally a crowd favourite, but to me Bobby Caldwell performs it much better than Boz, so that's one I systematically skip. Too much softness kills me. - The musicians are great for this type of gig, although I knew none of them before seeing this dvd. But, like it or not, you can't replace Lukather on guitars or Jeff Porcaro on drums, especially on "Lowdown", "Jojo", or "Breakdown dead ahead". Yes, I am a romantic. And a dreamer. But those two positions should have been better filled...Of the two, the drummer is the weakest link. The overall impression is that of a middle of the road musician, well in line, not too spectacular or flashy. Too discrete in my opinion. - The stage. Much too small. With everyone performing, you have ten people on approximately 12 by 20 feet. How they managed not to run into each other or kick anybody of the set is a miracle... The drummer is locked in behind a plexiglass, the two key-piano players are sharing their sweat dripping from their back, the guitar player hardly has any space to move his hips. Now to the goodies ! - The guy ! Boz is a class act. Educated, respectful, considerate. Thin (almost slim) when so many singers put on those extra kilos at that age, he is also in great vocal shape. Sure, he doesn't have that enigmatic women idol look he had in the late seventies, but he is like top of the line wine. Bonified with time. - The sound quality. Top of the line. Little to no junk sounds, no static, no weaknesses. All the instruments sound great when they need to. Chapeau to the sound engineers ! - The picture quality. Like other reviewers said, no MTV nonsense with stupid shots. We see the crowd when we need to, but just enough. We see the musicians when we need to. And the colours are splendid. I saw this one on a Pioneer plasma 52 inches. Ooooh lala.....Don't think we need a blu ray version. Also, remember this thing is from 2004. - The general atmosphere, with a no nonsense attitude. You have no body guards between the stage and the musicians, and if there is any type of security, it's not visible. No hurdles or barriers between the stage and the public. The first row of seats is just 2 meters (six feet) away from Boz. Now that is intimate... - Lowdown, Miss Sun, Lido Shuffle, Georgia, Breakdown dead ahead, Jojo. Sierra (see above), Simone, Some Change and maybe Hard times are missing though. - The stage... well, yes. Too small, but at the same time more human than most of the stages I have seen. I saw Boz in concert in Madrid several years ago, and even got to talk a little to him after the concert (also excellent by the way). I asked him if he would ever get together with the musicians from TOTO for another album. He was very clear : NO. I think he just prefers the cozy, intimate settings. His latest discography confirms that. And so does this concert. In short, you will see and hear the Boz of this century, even when playing songs from the seventies and eighties. This means a bluesier touch to the songs (at times it even comes to be borderline with country, as a friend of mine pointed out). Here, you have almost two hours of concert. As always, enjoy the music, and the filming in this case !
	Quantum of Solace [Blu-ray]
	"Bad Bond..."	2009-04-05
I'm another fan of the Bond films. I was also looking forward to enjoying this latest adventure. I too got disappointed with the quality of this quantum... To make it short, the reason why I was disappointed is because of the film as a whole. I feel that there were so many weaknesses in so many aspects that I just cannot give it more than 2 stars. One of the weakest Bond, and certainly a film that will NOT be reminded as a reference (unless it is taken as a "how not to"). If you are satisfied with this, or in a hurry, skip directly to the conclusion. If not, read on.... Now, to the longer explanation, with more details and observations : - The first minutes of the film are stunning. Spectacular chase on Italian roads. A couple of necessary explosions and several collisions. But then, ouch.... An ugly song, not captivating at all. Really un-bond and, unfortunately, an annunciation of the rest to come, because the soundtrack is just simply forgettable. - The number of attractive girls appearing in the film is minimal. Sure, Olga Kyrilenko and Gemma Arterton aren't ugly at all, but how can it be that the more Bond type of girl makes a one minute (if that) appearance in the film ? (I am referring to the girlfriend of the Italian retired spy-informant that Bond visits to try and find help). Oh, shame on me, I was about to forget the receptionist at the hotel in Port-au-prince. She also fits better the description of a Bond girl than Olga and Gemma. - What ? no gadgets ? no bionic earpiece ? no potion that turn a bad guy into an angel ? Yes, I know, Q is gone, but did the inventions sequence have to go with him as well ? After all, that has always been one of the traits of character of the series. - Er.... no Martini ? Even if not shaken and stirred ? The drink(s) Bond is having aboard the Airbus 380 (didn't know any airline was flying to La Paz with that aircraft, but whatever) isn't like anything I've ever heard before. A complicated recipe, explained too fast by the "waiter" (too fast, remember that, because we'll come back to it). Not sure what they were trying to communicate there... - The landscapes and shots are nothing like what we were used to in the past. I can't remember a single shot for which I said "WOW". Like other reviewers pointed out, we had super shots from India, Thailand etc in prior releases. Now we get the impression everything is a dump, with dark colours and contrast that have you wondering if your tv is OK (I have a plasma Pioneer, not a low end tv). Even the shot of the bay after the infamous duel in the port between Bond's turbo fisherman boat and the supersonic dinghys belonging to the General is subpar. Another Bond trademark that goes out the window. That makes 4, and counting. And yes, I agree with the nonsense of the hotel, with no clients, and in the middle of nowhere. - Weak dialogs and no sense of humour (another trademark). The remark about the Italian not minding to be thrown in a dump when dead is simply unworthy of the series. - The cast of characters is weak, not to say flabby. The only ones that fly above that are Craig and Judy Dench. But why surround them with these really bad actors ? Felix is simply pathetic and non-credible. The General is anything but an actor, just like the rest of his lieutenants. The Villain is mediocre. His assistants are insignificant. And we can go on. Where are all the true actors from prior installments (Patrick McNee, Christopher Walken, etc ?). If you don't want to get an expensive actor, at least get a credible one. Or get Mickey Rourke. - Speed. Back to that issue. You want to pick up the pace, so the audience doesn't fall asleep ? After all, Bond films are action oriented. But there is a difference between action packed (marketing label), and vertigo. I had vertigo at times and couldn't follow what was going on. No, I'm not senile, I don't have mad cow disease or any attention deficit. Things just go too fast too often. - Excessive violence and "bangs" and "booms". It saturates after a while, especially when it is for no particular reason, like another reviewer rightly points out. I remember going to the cinema with my father each time a new Bond came out. That was a great moment for me. However, I am sure that, even today, I wouldn't take a ten year old to watch this. - Nonsense. Can someone explain to me for example what the fight in the Haitian hotel was about ? Not a single word exchanged, yet the guy gets his carotid slit, and starts bleeding like a pig on the balcony ? What does that bring to the story of the film ? What about the hotel in the desert ? Perla de las Lunas ? Huh ? And the General trying to rape the waitress ? and so on. - Plagiarism. The chase on the balconies and roofs is a bad copycat of the Bourne series. The "secret" agent (who then happens to be just a clerk, figure that one) dies covered in petroleum, just like the girl who betrayed Auric Goldfinger died covered in gold, over 30 years ago. The good stuff : Craig is excellent, second best to the best, Sean Connery. He's close to what Ian Fleming was describing in his books, but this film doesn't do him justice. They must keep him, but also must come up with a much better film next time. No matter how good he is, he just follows the script and the director's orders... Conclusion : Quite sadly, to me this feels more like a film made for the DVD industry than a widescreen cinema film. There are good and many not so good things that overall make it an uneven and inconsistent film. I like action, but I also like to dream, I like witty comments and dialogs, I like a story to be somewhat credible. This one doesn't do any of that for me. So, my advice is to skip this one and wait for the next Bond, or watch Casino Royal again, or look for something else if you are into action films that make some sense and have personality.
	10cc - The Very Best of 10 CC
	"Who is Mandy anyway ?"	2007-10-11
10 cc, which disbanded in 1983 (been a while, huh?), is one of those groups that made a difference in the musical landscape of the seventies, not only in the U.K., but also in Europe (not that much in the U.S. I believe). This collection is a must have and a piece of the puzzle for any serious music collector. Of course, who has never heard the mega hit "I'm not in love"? But there was much more, and a good part of that can be found here. The collection starts off with a rather silly song that sounds like a fifties tune, reminding a little bit the beach boys. I had never heard this song and when I put the cd in the player I even pulled the cd out thinking I had made a mistake, that this was not 10cc. Well, I happen to know all the other tracks on this collection (except for "Rubber Bullets", another beach boyesque/beatlesque track), so I wasn't thrown off and I didn't have to check again, but this shows you how innovative, unconventional and creative 10cc was. None of the remaining tracks are similar or alike. Each has different sequences, taking you on a musical rollercoaster, nothing mechanical and foreseeable here... The lyrics are witty ("Life is a minestrone") and sometimes sarcastic enough("the Dean and I", "Good morning Judge") without being completely subversive ("Wall Street Shuffle", still very current if you listen closely). The lyrics on "Art for Art's sake" are a sharp criticism of materialistic and empty minded people. Very daring, especially considering the cut is from an album called "How dare you". You see, there again we go with the wit ! What I also find interesting about 10cc is that cross influence between Alan Parsons Project, ELO, Supertramp and Queen. At times, they are close to symphonic rock, then they can get really rocky with sharp guitars ("Silly love", "I'm Mandy..."), or even country like ("Good morning Judge"), making them a unique band with no real comparison, hence even more interesting. By the way, I remembered "I'm Mandy fly me" from a long time ago, and I've listened to it again with this cd. Can anybody try to clarify who Mandy could be ? Still searching... ;) If you like "I'm not in love", don't miss "People in love", a beautiful track that Paul Mc Cartney himself would have sold by millions if he had composed and sung it. In short, a great band, a great collection of songs. Sad they couldn't continue any longer although we have WAX and GODLEY & CREME which are a continuation of 10cc after the split. Get it, have fun while listening to it, get in a British mood, and regret we don't have bands like this anymore today.
	Hall & Oates - X-Static
	"The David Foster touch !"	2007-09-06
This album had been on my list of "must get" for a long time (I have several Hall and Hall&Oates cds), and when I saw that there was a remixed version out, I just bought it (I had listened to the vinyl release several years ago and the sound was very defective). As other reviewers point out, lots of things were happening at the time "X-Static" was released. Disco, New Romantics, Punk Rock, Reggae...and indeed, you get a little bit of all this during the 40 minutes musical journey. I could say that the result is a bit uneven, because it goes in different directions and you don't have the impression this is a homogeneous effort. However, instead of going over the songs again, I will "slice" the album in three categories: music, singing and lyrics. - The music: undoubtedly the strongest point of this cd. Most of the tracks are just great tunes, with the clear influence of David Foster (producing and playing keyboards) and his buddy Jay Graydon on guitars. These two fellows have an EXCELLENT album out of a project called AIRPLAY, which you need to listen to if you're into mid 80s west coast music. "All you want is heaven" sounds like it came directly out of that AIRPLAY cd as a matter of fact. David Foster also has a couple of interesting solo albums and was very "a la mode" at the time (he also produced "feel no fret" from the Average White Band). The same goes for Jay Graydon, and excellent guitarist, very sharp and sounding a little bit like Steve Lukather (Toto). - The singing: despite the technology (my version is the 20bit K2 super coding, Japanese edition), a slight disappointment. Both Daryl and John sound lost at times. Their voices are not as outstanding as they should be and they get overpowered by the music on several tracks. I wonder why this happened because the mixing is done by a master called Humberto Gatica, and believe me this bloke knows his job. - The lyrics: ouch! I am going to be brutally sincere. I almost never give any importance to the lyrics. I pay much more attention to the feel of the songs. How well it's arranged, the spirit, how it flows. But people, here something incredible happened. I don't know who wrote the lyrics for these songs, but I have never seen sillier words ! "Who said the world was fair" and "Intravino" really get the Oscar: "If there's enough to go around why can't I get mine, if everybody knows they've been lied to, if everybody knows it, then why are they waiting on a gas line?" What on earth does this mean ? Or "Gimme wine, wine, I need intravino, wine, wine I need it everyday-o, wine, wine, Mis en bouteille au chateau, all the time i need wine all time". No comment... other that I didn't notice the first time I listened to this album, several years ago. Surprising people of the caliber of Hall&Oates and the other participants would go with this nonsense. A good indication that the lyrics side was completely trashed is that you have Daryl singing for 2 minutes on a track that's six minutes long, showing that either the album was made in a big big hurry, or that they just said the heck with the lyrics. In short this is a studio album with its strengths (several great tracks for partying, couple of beautiful ballads), but its weaknesses too (see above); loved the music, appreciated the voices (though the production failed a bit on this one), hated the lyrics. But get this cd if you have nostalgia for those years or if you like any of the artists I have mentioned.
	Toto - 25th Anniversary (Live in Amsterdam)
	"Wrinkles are beautiful !!!"	2007-08-02
Not much to add to what has already been said at long and at large from this mega band. If you're here, you probably know a lot about them. Even so, I can only recommend you to get this DVD if you don't have it... Why should I bother, would you say, if I already have several of their records (or even all of them) ? For lots of reasons. First, the sound is amazing. I played this on my system thinking that it would be fine. It's not, it's outstanding. Also, the filming is excellent. No blurry shots, no silly angles, no focus on who isn't playing. The production is irreproachable. Another reason you should get this is the incredible atmosphere surrounding the concert. I was trying to see the people in the crowd, and to my surprise, the people there range from 20 to 50 (and apparently a majority of 30ish). In the States, Toto doesn't get any airplay, doesn't perform much, and they seem to be viewed as fossils, remembrance of the west coast style of the 80's. Not so in Japan or Europe, where they are always welcome and fill in large theaters. Amazing, don't you think ? On stage, you have Bobby Kimball with the rest of the band and two backup musicians. Bobby is like the rest of the regular members. With wrinkles, but in great shape. What a voice! Simon Phillips is probably second best to Jeff Porcaro, Paich shows he can play anything from classic to blues and funky (we already knew that), Mike Porcaro, even though he's not Verdine White, Stanley Clarke or Mark King, is very passionate in his playing, and Luke is... well, just in case you still wondered, the true leader of the band. Just look at how everyone is positioned. The lead singer is on a second row podium half of the concert and Luke is the one walking around. He even gets to play a piano solo with David Paich having fun watching him from behind. Yet, no doubt at who is the leader there... The two cover versions ("While my guitar..." and "Bhoddisatva") are examples of what covers should be. Majestic, incredible. And with special words from Luke to his brothers George and Jeff (to me, the best drummer ever). The band shows they master all styles, from Hard Rock to Jazz, Pop, Blues, Folk, you name it. The only thing a bit annoying is the sometimes quick blending of some stellar tracks (99 deserves more than a few notes), but they have been doing this in concert lately. All the tracks are either blended or follow each other with almost no timeout. Be ready because you're in for a two hour visual and musical treat !! Don't miss the two bisses : home of the brave and White sister. Good, old powerful rock'n roll. By the way, I've seen this dvd several times, and I just can't help getting goose bumps on two instances : when they play I won't hold you back, and when Bobby Kimball does his solo stuff. I don't know if that can get any better. What I do know is that I will do all I can to attend their next concert. I'm going to their website to check that out. In the meantime, let's enjoy this super dvd. P.S. I really agree with three messages the fans in the crowd show during the concert : "never enough Toto", "I could sit here forever", and "Paich for president". Thanks for the music fellows !
	Leon Ware - Musical Massage [7/29]
	"Oooooooooozinnnnng sensuality..."	2007-02-02
If you are reading this, you probably know about Leon Ware, his connection with "I want You" (Marvin Gaye) and his struggle to get his music on the market, explained in part in the inner booklet. I have four albums of Leon Ware and this is probably the one that delivers the most. Why ? Well, for starters, you get 15 tracks and 56 minutes of music, whereas you are around 35-40 minutes in his other cds (Leon Ware, Rockin you eternally). Also, you get the "original" version of two tracks included on Marvin Gaye's "I want You". I find it always interesting to compare a final product with the creator's project. You get that here. And if you are a fan of Minnie Ripperton (another brilliant voice gone too soon), you will be in ecstasy; she sings on "Comfort" (the original version of "come live with me ") and "Instant love". Having said this, it is true that Leon Ware is not the best or greatest voice I've heard, even if he sounds better on some tracks than others (tell me what you think of "With you" for instance). He is a great songwriter though. All the tracks on this collection are oozing with sensuality. It does sound outdated to some, but to me this is classic soul from the 70s. Well worth your money, but you need to listen to it with a positive approach and placing it in context. You will like it if you like Bobby Womack, Norman Connors, Average White Band or even Curtis Mayfield and Teddy Pendergrass.
	Rupert Holmes - Escape: Best of
	"The lost Anglo-American poet..."	2006-04-12
You surely remember this man through his Pina Colada song... Who doesn't ? Rupert Holmes reached the peak of his notoriety with this hit single from "Partners in crime", but that was about it. This man fell into a category of artists known just for one song and had to carry this cross for the rest of his life. Other artists who still could make a more prolific career than Rupert also had to suffer from this constant reference to one of their early career hits. That is what marketing or labeling can do to you. Yet, Rupert does have two excellent albums : Partners in crime and Adventure (though I think the latter was never released on cd). Fortunately for the ones who appreciated more than...the pina colada song (you guessed it)...this "best of" is a chance to listen to this poet and some of his (sometimes) remarkable songs. I personally always preferred by much "Him", a song about infidelity, "I don't need you" (the continuation of "Him"), the bluesy "Get outta yourself", or the title track of the album "Partners in crime" to... the Pina...(you guessed it right). The tracks pulled out of Adventure are even more interesting because of an increased depth and power, like in "Blackjack", "Cold" (again referring to a woman...), "The mask" or the title track "Adventure". The lyrics here are still poetic, clever, witty, descriptive, but there is an added value of a better musical arrangement and guitars than on Partners in Crime. You see, I have already given you eight better tracks than, yes, you guessed again, the ...pina -was it Colada?- song... and that is why this collection is really interesting. Only problem I see in it, the opening is... the Pina colada song... and the closer is also (the single version) of... well... If you decide to get (or borrow) this cd, you will be in for a 71 minutes, and 17 songs, ride that will take you to the flavour of the late seventies-early eighties. You will surely enjoy it, despite a couple of sappy songs, if you like(d) people such as Barry Manilow, Paul Simon, Cat Stevens, James Taylor or Stephen Bishop. All poets, of which Rupert is the one that disappeared sooner from the headlines...
	Brother IntelliFAX-2440c Color Flatbed Inkjet Fax Machine with Message Center
	"All I needed, and more !"	2005-12-21
After 15 years of use (sort of old fashioned, I use things until they are really useless or completely broken and cannot be repaired) of another Brother machine (the intellifax 820), I thought it was time for a nice upgrade. I chose this machine over a Canon for instance because of the price, but also because I wanted to use it as a telephone and an answering machine. I couldn't be happier after 3 months of use. It is extremely complete and versatile (phone + answering machine + fax + copier), unbeatable for the price. The machine, once in place, is also compact, unlike (yes, you guessed) most of the Canon models, which take so much space. Down the toilet goes thermal paper, of course. But that is not all. As compared to my old 820, this one has a speakerphone that works both ways. By that, you can not only hear what is happening on the line, but also talk without picking up the receiver (couldn't do it with the 820). It also has a caller id function, so you see (if part of your package with the phone company) if those nasty telemarketers are bugging you. Plus, it has a message center memory. With all the hurricanes and power outages for whatever reason, this is very practical; all your messages will be kept in memory for 24 hours when the electricity goes out ! This machine also makes nice copies, as long as you stay in black&white (definition and consistency are not good in colour). Copies can either be made once at a time, or by putting them all on the flatbed and boum, there they go in line. Just like at the copy shop, where they have those expensive machines that are often out of order. I haven't tried sending colour faxes, but if I do, I'll come back and edit this comment. No problems sending multiple pages faxes though, thanks again to the flatbed system. Pages go out in a zoom, but the rest depends on the quality of the phone line, and obviously on the quality of the machine at the other end. A couple of drawbacks on the machine : the buttons are a bit small, and you have to be sure you are pressing the right number; also, the direct memory numbers are less than on my old 820 (you only get 6, where I had 20 on the 820) even though on aggregate you have more on this machine (you have to go into another feature); finally, I am under the impression the cartridges are going to be costly, even though I don't use or make colour copies or faxes. You see, the system does a sort of automatic cleaning every once in a while, and you can hear it starting to get in motion, even if it is very brief. Overall, if the three things I have just told you do not bother you, go for this machine, it is ideal for small businesses or someone who wants a multifunction machine at home, without taking up up vital space on your desk and you do not have to go out to the copy shop anymore. You can even connect this machine to your computer center (something I still have to do, just like the previous reviewer). And Brother is the specialized brand in these products, so you can hardly go wrong.
	Liane Foly - Les Petites Notes
	"Sexy Jazz-Pop."	2005-08-06
This is yet another singer who never receives any airplay in the U.S.A. (let me know where if you hear her on a local F.M. station), despite being one of the really good artists from France that I can listen to without shutting everything off after 30 seconds. A pity, because you will find very good quality here... The cd starts with sax and keys in a bluesy mood. Then Liane starts singing with that deep but silky voice one could already listen to in her "Reve Orange". The mood for a smoky jazz bar is set. The same ambiance you get on tracks 6, 7 and 9. In fact, the jazzy touch is present in every track, although you have more poppy songs (tracks 5, 8 and 10). Throughout the 47 minutes this cd lasts, it however never falls in any silliness or cheesy music or words, which is rare, not only for a French product, but for most releases in today's music.. Granted, for those who do not like or understand French, it will be hard to hang on any further than track 3. And for those looking for a pure or progressive jazz album, it turns out to be probably too poppy. I nevertheless did not find this either overproduced or disco like (despite the "give me the night" like guitar [from George Benson] on track 5). It is just a very tasty jazz pop, sung in French, with unusual instruments (accordion on track 4 for instance, performed by Richard Galliano, well known in the jazz world) and unusual (not standard) production for a French release, which is why it may sound shocking to some. The album is 12 years old, but I did not find it outdated either. In short, the album I would recommend from the four-five I've heard from her, just because it is probably a bit more upbeat than the follow up ("Cameleon") and more complete than "Reve Orange". You will like it if you like artists such as Isabelle Antena, who is another interesting French speaking singer (who is actually from Belgium) who has obtained more recognition in Japan than in Europe or in the States. But ask a star such as Larry Carlton if it is not the same for him...
	The Yellowjackets - Yellowjackets
	"Could hardly get any better."	2005-08-01
I will agree with other reviewers here. Jazzy, classic (because of the piano), soulful, gospel (even though there is not a single word said along the album), upbeat, melodic, inspired, uncompromised music (not targeting the American top 40) is what you will find on this album. These people can play and go for it ! It is in fact hard to write a review of this album because of the complexity and diversity of each track, crafted with energy and enthusiasm. The whole thing blends magnificently all along the album, even though it is JAZZ ! I fully agree wit the other reviewers, the guitar play is amazing. It sets the tone and rhythm on "Imperial Strut", "Rush hour", "Priscilla" (just when you were thinking "oh, there goes a pasty song"). Larry Carlton, Steve Lukather, Carlitos Rios, Eddie Gomez or perhaps even Jeff Beck couldn't have done it better. My favourite here is "It's almost gone". Deep bass even though the piano is in frontline, and a sort of oriental mood for the first 110 seconds. Powerful composition, very intense and deep. Then, bang the drums kick in, the keys overpower the piano and the track picks up and takes you high. Three minutes later, the piano closes the journey with the same melodic sounds it started. This is wonderful music. The closer on my edition, "Top Secret", replaces "Sittin it in", and it is a good trade off. You can't stay still in your chair with this one... Bravo to the Yellowjackets for this gift and get or keep this one in your collection. If anybody ever asks you who they are, say the truth : one of the bands which showed a different approach to music in the mid seventies/eighties, together with Pat Metheny or Steely Dan, when everything was disco or a "plastic" genre that also became silly with time ("west coast music" with people such as Jack Wagner, Roger Voudouris, Adrian Gurvitz...). Remember that this band has always been sort of unconventional. I haven't listened to all of their releases, but not one of the albums I have from them or heard from them is like another and this one is a gem. In short, an album that has not aged, that is worth listening to over and over, which is not commercial music and that should be played for more than just "connaisseurs". If you haven't heard anything from these guys, you should like them if you like "AJA" (Steely Dan) and "OFFRAMP" (Pat Metheny).
	Gato Barbieri - Que Pasa
	"Che, que pasada !"	2005-07-10
I unjustly overlooked this release when it came out on the market, already eight years ago. The truth is that the title sounds a bit silly to us in Spain. But now that I just got this cd, I am glad I have it and kick myself for letting it slip out of my radar screen so easily. Basically, all that the other reviewers said is true, so I won't start paraphrasing them. However, I would like to point out the quality of sound and production of "que pasa ?". I find it is an extremely well crafted album, with rhythm, warmth (typical from Gato's sax), and that edge that takes it beyond the typical lift-crocodile-supermarket music. This is probably another reason why this did not get the maximum airplay it deserved on F.M. stations. It doesn't fit the light mayonnaise taste of today's smooth jazz... With such a cd, it is hard to say there is a better track. They are all great, and yet different. Even the cover version of Stevie's song is marvelous (note that Gato had already performed a sublime cover of Marvin Gaye's "I want you" in the "Caliente" cd). Curiously, and there I do dissent with other reveiwers, the weakest track is probably the opener, though still a great cut. And Circulos" is the peak monent of the album for me. It goes soooooo high betweeen minutes 2 and 4.... This can also probably considered a "global" album because of references to different places and cultures (Guadeloupe, Granada, Indonesia), all that with Gato's distinctive touch. You see, Gato has that special sound, just like Santana, who also has gone "global" (though in another way) on his recent recordings. Finally, this album is the fruit of an association. Philippe Saisse + Gato Barbieri, or vice versa. It is a very balanced album in that sense because they have equal intervention, Gato is just more known than Philippe (more a studio musician who also has intensely collaborated with Jarreau). Check out Says' skills and punch on track 2 for instance... Bottom line, skip Richard Elliott, Everett Harp, Kenny (beurk) Gorelic, or Boney James. They opted for "smooth jazz" which, on the long run has been a disaster because it has become a dull-decaffeinated genre, much to my despair. You won't get an adulterated product here. Get it without doubt ! P. S. I just hope I have the same level of energy as he does when I'm an abuelo, although he looked completely over the edge in his weird explanations in the "Calle 54" DVD, another must have, by the way!!!
	Pages - Future Street
	"What a marvelous album !!!"	2004-07-09
I just came across this cd. What a collection of songs ! Confirming what other reviewers have said, this is a lost gem of the late seventies-early eighties. The album starts off with a tonic song where you can hear aggressive guitars with a very Californian sound. Number 2, "The Sailor's song" sounds so much like Steely Dan AND Toto. What a blend my friends ! Rythm, melody and.... again... guitars. Plus the vocals, also very.... Californian, with an unexpected end for this second track. The record goes on and you can feel the enthusiasm these people had playing their music. Nothing to do with the overproduced, pasty, tasteless and predictable stuff you find on so many albums today... Believe it or not, the songs are even jazzy at times ("Chemistry" for instance). In fact, you have many spicy and tasty ingredients on this album. That is what made that style of music true fusion and so wonderful before it became commercial and went out of fashion, even if the Pages never became millionaires under this label and name (see other reviewers). This album has more punch and knack than their self titled album, but if you like Michael Sembello, Steely Dan, Toto, Kenny Loggins, Airplay and the Jay Graydon sound, you cannot have a collection without "Future street". I only wish it was longer than 34 minutes and that they had a remastered edition of this cd. That would be the max !
	David Sanborn - Inside
	"What's inside..."	2004-05-12
As many other Sanborn fans, I discovered him in his late seventies mid eighties albums ("As we speak", "Backstreet"). I loved his sound and power, and thought he was the best sax player around. What happened then is what I have described in other reviews : smooth jazz, or jazz funk, or jazz soul got seriously eroded over time. The reasons being that too many people got into the niche, and tastes shifted. This album seems to be very criticized by the reviewers, who compare earlier Sanborn collections to this one. Big mistake. I honestly think that "What's inside" is a very good album. It is not a chart topper, and it doesn't bring anything spectacularly new, but I found Sanborn very recovered after a couple of disastrous records. As a matter of fact, I saw him four years ago at a live concert in Atlanta (with Joe Sample, Al Jarreau and Roberta Flack), and thought he was completely "out". On "Inside", the great association with Marcus Miller, the little big man, turns out great. Marcus is one of the 5 top bass players for me, and he produces much better than people like Paul Brown (Al Jarreau, please dump that guy !!!). The result is a pop jazz album, with bluesy touches ("Brother Ray", "Miss you"), penetrating slow tempo beats ("Trance"), and a Me'shell ambient-like "Naked moon". The vocals on this album are not the pasty-conventional voices you find on so many albums. I think Lalah Hathaway and Eric Benet are fine on "I'm With you", and the cover version of "Aint't no sunshine" (remember Bill Withers ?) with Sting (that one is unexpected !!) is worth by itself getting the album. As other reviewers mention, you also get the bonus of "Lisa", a very sexy track marvelously reinterpreted. Last but not least (and maybe I should have started here), the graphics of the album are great. Black and white pictures, with a greenish touch for the cover and backsleeve give a cozy touch. You feel somewhat closer to David through the design. And that is what is inside this album. A collection of songs to listen at home or in your car and feel at ease. No frills, but sounds of excellent quality, and an album above average. Not smooth jazz ? No, it's not, but smooth jazz is on the slippery slope, so why not give this album a try ?
	David Sanborn - Songs from the Night Before
	"The day after..."	2004-05-11
There was a film from the mid eighties called the day after. It described what the world looked like after a nuclear bang. Not pretty. Lots of desolation. That is how I feel about this cd. On this occasion, Sanborn teams up with the Peterson brothers. The lads are very good friends with Ben Sidran, musician, producer and record label owner. They all share passion for blues and Jazz. You can also find Phil Upchurch on one track, and Randy Brecker on trumpet. Good ingredients right ? well the sauce just doesn't taste good... First, Sanborn doesn't sound genuine, except for a couple of tracks (especially "Rikke" and "Missing you", curiously enough the slowest jams on the album). Then, there is a lot of "I wanna sound on the F.M." type of tracks. It just sounds cheap commercial effort from the very first track. The more bluesy tracks aren't really catchy ("Listen here" that is sooo repetitive, "DSP") and when you get to the end of the record, you ask yourself "That's it?". You see, the trick is that this cd is less than 40 minutes long... Just like in the good old days of the vinyl when you had between 17 and 23 minutes per side. There wouldn't be anything wrong with that if the tracks were of quality, but it isn't the case. In my modest opinion, a very mediocre album, with a mediocre cover version of the too often heard "Spooky". Sanborn can do better, but this cd seems to be in the middle of a bad period from him. Little inspiration and lack of punch. As a matter of fact I saw him at a concert live with Al Jarreau, Joe Sample and Roberta Flack just two years after this cd was released and, much to my dismay, David Sanborn flew unnoticed through that concert. That too was a disappointment. So, if you want to enjoy David Sanborn albums, go to the necessary "As we speak", "Backstreet", or "straight to the heart", or even try "Inside", from a couple of years ago.
	Swing Out Sister - Breakout: Best of Swing out Sister
	"A must have !"	2002-12-01
This band had its great breakthrough with the stellar "breakout", from the impossible to equal (for them at least) "It's better to travel". That album was played everywhere in Madrid when it was released, and I even had a neighbour who had it playing constantly. She had the cd at home and the tape version for her car (at that time, there were few cd players for cars and no MDs). Well, many years have gone by and I had been thinking about getting that album on cd for myself, after having worn out my tape copy. Then, I decided to get this one. I found it to be a real collection of their finest moments. The journey takes you from 1985 to 1994, and contains several (slightly edited) tracks of their most famous tunes from their stellar album. There is a clear change of style midway through this album, mainly due to line-up changes of the band throughout the years. However, I must say I was not disappointed by those tracks I had never heard before, except for track 16, an ear breaker. For instance, you have a very soul Curtis Mayfield / Marvin Gaye type of atmosphere on track 12. Track 13 has that happy feeling and rythm that makes you want to tap your feet on the floor. Track 14, a mid tempo with a jazzy touch, could be played in any of those elegant bars in major capitals around the world. The closer, a brilliant 3 minute instrumental, has a sort of romantic Parisian-like atmosphere that also brings back special memories to me... If you like British-like pop soul with "elegant" touches, unfortunately unfit for the US market, this is an album for you. The Japanese apparently love this band. Swing Out sister might make you think a bit about Matt Bianco (same era) or Working Week, or even Nick Heyward. If you like these artists, you will also like this cd. It's a great quality pop album, and a good compilation. Now, my next move is to get "It's better to travel" on cd...
	Minolta Freedom Zoom 125 35mm Camera w/Film
	"When the you get what you pay for rule kicks in."	2002-10-14
First of all, I did a VERY exhaustive search before going for this camera. And when I say VERY, I really mean that I compared six different brands with cameras of similar aspect and characteristics. I narrowed it down to two brands, and within those two, to five cameras. I went for this one because it featured what I needed and I did not find any negative review, as I did for other models, even within the Minolta line of product. After using the camera for over a month, this is what I have to say in its favour : it is incredibly light, easy to use, fast, and all the pictures taken outside have turned out incredible. The colours and the definition are probably as good as on pictures taken with any reliable SLR (Canon Rebel, Minolta maxxum 5 or Nikon N65). The multi autofocus system seems to work great, and I know that this is a camera I can give to anybody who happens to be around to take a picture of me, with any background. I know the picture will come out perfect, where it could come out unfocused in some cases with other autofocus cameras in "unexperienced" hands. My father even took this Minolta 125 on a trip to mexico and NOT ONE picture from his two rolls is unfocused or blurry. Besides, he took some incredible sunset shots in the bay of Acapulco. Oh, and I haven't had that scratch on the film problem I've read about for other models of this brand. Now to the negative part : it is made in China (is quality control at the level ?), the protective cap for the lens doesn't look as good as on previous models of Minolta, surely not like the Olympus family, and.... pictures taken with flash... flunk ! Yes, Ladies and Gentemen, the red eye issue is clearly not solved here. The anti red eye system is the same as the one I have on my "old" (6 years) Minolta Freedom 115 mm zoom (three flashes), but the results are much worse in similar conditions. I really don't know why that happens, but it is a great disappointment. Also, the zoom stops at four predetermined levels and I haven't found a way to have it stop between one of those two levels. Overall, I cannot say I was deceived because I got this at a very very low price (I'm even ashamed of saying how much), but even so, you still get what you pay for. I have asked several photographers what they think of the current "pocket size" Minolta, and they all seem to say that you give up quality for other features, and that these are probably not as good cameras as previous ones. Be aware that this works great on the outside, not so well with flash/inside. Avoid using it inside on very special occasions because even people with brown eyes can look like sheer vampires ! Besides those limitations, I believe it is a great buy, almost unbeatable at this price. Final word, use 400 ASA films for this Minolta 125.
	David Visan - Buddha Bar IV (Unibox)
	"Far from being a flop."	2002-08-08
I was in fear of getting my hands on this new release, especially since listening to Buddha Bar III. As said by another reviewer here, the whole thing started smelling like "easy money". Nevertheless, I like risky adventures and just went for this one. After listening to this double cd several times, and sharing new experiences, I must say I am far from disappointed. David Visan (DJ here in charge) does a great job, and his multicultural background (parents from a different culture, he has also traveled a lot) is clear, especially on cd 1. You just flow through 63 minutes of what I call S.I.S. music (Suave, Incisiva y Sexy). The roots are clearly Mediterranean, in the broad sense, taking you from one point to another of that area, with some latin influences, such as the tango-like closing track. The Mediterranean is SOOOOOOOOO wonderful and rich in different cultures and ways of living, and the cd is an attempt to make you feel and discover it. When it is over, you just want....more. And you hit the repeat button, several times if necessary. CD 1 is six stars by itself. True that cd 2 is a little more average and lacks a bit of punch, especially if it is filed as "drink" (cd 1 is filed as "dinner", even if I would have called it something else). It is more chill out music than an invitation to move your body as you're having drinks with your friends in an upscale bar of cities such as Paris, Tokyo, New York, Roma... Having said this, it has the inevitable (you'll have this on all those French releases) kitsch tracks : number 8 sounds like what the gypsies play in the streets in Madrid to have people throwing them coins from their balconies, number 9 has that silly synthesizer sound that reminds me of the popcorn song (mid seventies). Then, you have a remake of Gloria Gaynor's "I will survive" sung by salsa icon Clia Cruz, that also sounds more like a joke than anything else. Overall, a great purchase if you don't get upset with the kitsch side and if it wouldn't be for two drawbacks : still a bit pricy and the shortness of the journey (63 and 60 minutes, that's almost half an hour less than what we could get), which is why it gets 4 stars. Other than that, the second best, after volume one... You won't be disappointed if you like cds such as "Real Ibiza", some of the "Cafe del Mar" (only the best ones), or "Flying carpet". P.S. Just like the rest of the cds from the Buddha bar and associates collection, all tracks are mixed. Just thought you'd like to know.
	Michael McDonald - In the Spirit: A Christmas Album
	"Impressive..."	2001-12-20
A friend of mine who lives in Europe asked me to get this album for him. When I read what he was asking for, I was hesitating and asking myself why he wanted to get Christmas music by Michael McDonald. The answer came by itself, just listening to the cd before giving it to him. This collection is simply impressive, for two reasons. First, it has the Christmas spirit, but it doesn't contain the tunes we have all heard ten zillion times; most of the songs are from Michael McDonald himself, and they are excellent. Second, it shows that Michael McDonald is not musically dead. After the controversial "Blue obsession", a commercial flop (kill me for this if you want, but facts are facts) containing several weak tracks, where MM showed signs of fatigue in his voice, there is nothing to object here : the songs are sung right, the music is excellent, and there is just one track which is a bit repetitive and you end up skipping it. The cd was recorded in Nashville and that also gives a special dimension to the result. The peak moments to me are "House full of love" and "To make a miracle". I really recommend this album because it is versatile and you will enjoy playing it even if it isn't Christmas. However, be aware that if you are looking for the "typical" Christmas music this might not be for you (despite the cover version of "White Christmas", which by the way is very bluesy). In which case, you have two options : go for the original recordings, or go for the pasty Boney James type cover versions. You see, you really have a choice here...
	Incognito - Life Stranger Than Fiction
	"A good vintage."	2001-10-10
I generally don't talk about things I don't know of or do not have enough information to give an opinion. It seems there are two different releases of Incognito's latest album, and this is the one I have. So my review will be on this one, although I have read the critics about the other version here on Amazon, and I will refer to them. First, it is true that Maysa is not on this one. She has been on and off Incognito's Albums for some time and when this first happened, I wondered if there were problems with Bluey. Maysa is a big "plus" for any band, but the truth is that Bluey is trying to keep the members of the "Incognito family" working on his projects. The family is quite large, as I recently heard on an interview on a local FM station, so it is normal to see all these changes. My opinion is that the vocals (men and women) are not a weakness on this album, and no reproach can be addressed to Jean Paul Maulnick for keeping the tables turning, like any good coach would do with a team. It keeps the level of involvement of the members, and it guarantees different sounds and approaches (you can't expect any artist to keep on sounding the same forever, can you ?). Second, this new album is more consistent than the previous release. It is more soul-funk oriented, with more bass play, and less experimental. True enough, it has a couple of weaker tracks (the opening "stay mine" is not a materpiece, "There will come a day", with its gospel flavour, doesn't call my attention either, "Got to know" is a bit repetitive), but what about the rest ? Can anyone tell me that the album is boring or poorly executed ? What about the super "Rivers running black", or "Reach out" that literally get me out of my seat to dance ? "On the road part II" is another masterpiece. I would not be as sure as one of the reviewers that this is full of fill-ups, and that the band only had half an album but decided to stretch it to release a full cd... I really don't agree that the band "should" have released this cd and the previous one under only one release. If you want a best of, make it yourself on MD, Cassette or cdr... Third, I have read that the lyrics are stupid on this album. Well, what about the average quality of the lyrics in the music industry ? Not to talk about the quality of the music itself... Way below Incognito's sounds in so many cases. Fourth, the family is alive ! The band has been there for over 20 years and it doesn't seem we are close to any kind of fall. Bluey has his own record label (RICE records), he has worked on the Inner Shade and Citrus Sun projects, the Incognito family is large, his Son is even getting involved in this, and the reaction of the crowd to songs like "Skin on my skin" when performed live is amazing. Even if this is not Incognito's best album to date, it is better than the previous one and a must have for acid jazz and good pop soul lovers. Is it worth 25 dollars ? No, but what album is worth that ? Get it for the same price you can buy any other cd, and you will certainly not be disappointed.
	Toshi Kubota - Nothing But Your Love *
	"Mixed feelings..."	2001-10-09
I must agree with some of the things pointed out by other reviewers for this album. The singing is weak, some lyrics are absolutely absurd ("I'm not your sushi, I'm not your daddy, I'm nothing but your love...", or "You smell like pu-pu"), and the cover version included here is not really great. Also true that there must be a bunch of artists out there that could do as well as Toshi Kubota, but just don't get the chance to prove themselves. The fact that T.K. is Japanese is certainly a factor that pushed his label to use this marketing argument (especially with the interest from the public for artists also from Japan, such as Mondo Grosso, Yasushi Ide, the Kyoto Jazz Massive, Satoshie Tomiie, etc.). It's exotic, but doesn't necessarily mean it's good. He's a star in Japan ? Good for him... Some stronger points : "Masquerade" has a Lonnie Liston Smith feeling, "Someday" is a very nice ballad with a Stevie Wonder flavour. "Till she comes" has a nice mid tempo R&B beat. "Shame" sounds like one of those ballads from the Average White Band (remember them ?). "I just can't get enough", "It's over" and "Gently" make the journey acceptable, and at times even close to pleasant. The cover sleeve is also nice... The man definitely has his idols he copies (or is it a tribute he renders to them ?). But again, he doesn't come close to the quality and genius THEY showed. This is why I can't decide if this really is a terrible album or not. I would probably recommend you to listen to it if you can, but keeping in mind it really isn't the album of the year. As a comparison, Rashaan Patterson has two much better albums worth spending money on.
	Hotel Costes: Suite
	"The best of the trilogy !"	2001-07-27
Generally speaking, I don't think I am a disorganized person. However, in this case I really did things sort of upside down. Why ? Well, because I started getting "Etage trois", then "Costes", and finally "La suite". I couldn't have done things better actually ! I got more and more into the music as I was comparing the three cds. This "la suite" is by far the best of the three. Perfectly recorded, it still has that little cheesy edge (Pink Martini, track 3) you will find in all three cds, but you will hardly find any other weakness. Sexy (tracks 1, 4, 15), smooth (tracks 5, 7), incisive (tracks 6, 8, 9, 10), the cd is in fact a great mix of jazz (track 11), "ethnic" music (tracks 13 and 14) electronica, pop-soul and lounge music. You even get a funny one (track 9) with a vocoder that reminds me of some tracks in Madonna's "Music" ! If you like the Om lounge serie, acid jazz in general, Seal, or the music you could listen in elegant clubs of cities such as Paris, N.Y., London or perhaps Tokyo, you will certainly not be disappointed by this one. Having said this, a good friend of mine who lives in N.Y. has just discovered this and is crazy for "etage trois", and he did not know there is a volume 1. This tends to show consensus will be hard to find with "Le costes" trilogy. The only drawback : its excessive pricing. Try and get it for less if you can. But if you have to choose between this and Buddha bar, get the costes. B.B is really way overpriced and more marketing than real quality. Trust me.
	Santana - Inner Secrets
	"Whammmmmmmmmm !"	2001-07-27
I longly hesitated before buying this cd because of three reasons : 1. It is an oldie 2. I have lots of Santana records, and several tracks from Inner Secrets are on those other cds 3. The reviews here seem to say it is a so/so album In fact, I should have bought it a long time ago ! This album is smashing. Among other things you have THE voice of Greg Walker (I never really liked Alex Lighertwood), Graham Lear on drums (he has played with lots of super artists, for instance Gino Vanelli), or Pete Escovedo (to me, Sheila E's daddy is one of the big ones now that Tito Puente has abandoned us). They all are there to put a unique value added to Santana's characteristic touch. "Move on" is marvelous (just listen to the last two minutes), "One chain" has an incredible beat, "Open invitation" really rocks, and the cover version is not cheesy at all. You also have the penetrating "Life is a Lady", with Santana superstar from the beginning to the end, just like in the famous "Europa" or "Moonflower". "Dealer" reminds me of my dear Spain. Latin touches are everywhere, but the two closing tracks are jewels... And THE PLAYERS ARE PLAYING (you have very little programmed music here) This album doesn't sound outdated, and I understand it disappoints people who like the Caravan-Borboletto-Abraxas period, but to me it is one of the super Santana records (not the case for Havana Moon or Blues for Salvador for instance). My recommendation is that you get it. I'll be ready to bet with you that you will still enjoy it in, say, 20 years from now.
	Wind & Fire Earth - Spirit
	"Only if you don't have the original release."	2001-06-09
Quite excited about the idea of getting to listen to previously unreleased material from EWF, I got this one, even if I already had the vinyl release and the cd that came out some years ago. My feeling after listening to it several times is that the record company or whoever decided what was going to be on here could have done much better and more, which is why I would rate it closer to three stars than four... Sure enough, the 36 minute original album is now 50 minutes long and the "packaging" (sleeve and drawing on the cd itself) is sexier. But the 5 extra tracks are just that, extra tracks. The saturday nite alternate mix doesn't really vary that much from the original one. "Seraphim" sounds great but only lasts 2 minutes and 7 seconds, and gives the impression of tunes on a demo tape that was never finished. "Imagination" 1 minute and 3 seconds. "African symphony" is less than two minutes. If you don't have the original release, get this one for the same price. It is a masterpiece anyway (over 5 stars) without the extra tracks. If you have the original release, you will be paying one or two tracks the price of a cd. I'm not really sure that is worth the cash. Unless you are a collector and must have everything these guys have released, in which case I can recommend you to absolutely get the triple cd collection called "The eternal dance".
	Narada Michael Walden - Garden of Love Light
	"Whitney Houston's mum..."	2001-04-26
This is Narada's first album and it is finally available on cd, which is great news. It globally is a very introspective album, as track 5 says ("Meditation"), on the edge of creativity, and with a balance between pure instrumentals and songs with vocals. The opening "White nights" is one of the most spectacular things I have ever heard. You will also find a very psychodelic-symphonic rock like track of over 9 minutes ("The sun is dancing"), dedicated to the Mahavishnu, featuring a very aggressive guitar by Ray Gomez. The genius Jeff Beck makes a remarkable appearance on track 8, another psychodelic one. On bass, Will Lee (one of my favourite Bass players, and a good friend of Toto) playing on all the tracks. The funny detail with this album is the appearance of Cissy Houston (Whitney's mother...) singing on the title track. That gives you an idea of how long ago this was. People who have been chasing Narada's work over the years, like I have, will be delighted with this one. This is NOT a poppy album, and it probably is his third best, in my humble opinion. Only problem with this cd : it sounds like a vinyl (LP) playing in your cd player, and I imagine something could have been done to make it sound better.
	Norman Whitfield - Car Wash: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
	"In full bloom !"	2001-04-26
If you have ever seen the film Car Wash, you will remember the importance of the soundtrack. I personally saw the film again on T.V. not too long ago, and when I found this cd was available, I simply ordered it (I had bought a long time ago the LP version, which only had 10 tracks). This can be counted as one of the great soundtracks of that era, together with others such as "Superfly", "Shaft" or "Saturday Night Fever". The more recent "Jackie Brown" goes in the same direction actually. But, the originality of this one is that the whole soundtrack was apparently recorded BEFORE the shooting of the film (the songs were really playing while the film was shot, and the actors seem to have the time of their life), and that the band was made up by Norman Whitfield especially for this recording. The songs were so great and the band was so successful that it went on to record more albums and competed on the charts with CHIC. In fact, I can tell you the film was shown everywhere in Europe and that "Car wash" and the ballad "I wanna get next to you" were played all over the world... Not bad for what some would call a low budget film with a made up band playing in the background. This really is a recommendable cd because of the story behind it, because of the sound (typical of that time), and because you have more than the two star tracks ("Zig Zag" and "Water" are super instrumentals, "Yoyo" is a lot of fun, the Ohio Players like "Born to love you" should have gotten the same recognition as the title track, and the musical scene - "Daddy rich/you gotta believe"- with Richard Pryor and the Pointer Sisters is extraordinary). Car wash, ladies and gentlemen, a must have from a band and a producer (Norman Whitfield) in full bloom at that time !
	Larry Carlton, Steve Lukather - No Substitutions: Live in Osaka
	"More than just a collector's item."	2001-04-13
Steve Lukather's records have never been chart toppers, and Larry Carlton isn't, hasn't been, and will never be the same he was before he got hurt. So what ? This is an unexpected union of two guitar players who both are, in their genre, institutions. The record starts with the standard "The Pump" (Jeff Beck, the hero of many), a cut I never get tired of listening to, to continue with a tonic "Give it up" and takes us through a journey where each of the two just have fun with their guitar (let's not kid ourselves, these guys can REALLY play !). Of course, you can argue that the record is worth it just because who they are and I did not beleive they would get together for a gig. But it is more than a collector's item because it still brings quality playing and a fun moment while driving your car or on a lazy afternoon. This is blues and rock'n'roll, with a marvelous and soulful softie in the middle ("only yesterday") which really turns you on from minute 4 or so. The bad thing about this cd, as mentioned by another reviewer, is that it is only 53 minutes long. Why ? Mystery, because I am sure the show lasted twice as long and another couple of track could have been added to this cd, making it much better... I give four stars because of the benefit of the doubt.
	Hotel Costes - Hotel Costes 1
	"Much better than "etage trois"."	2001-04-06
I only could get two of the trilogy from "le Costes", but this is definitely a better choice than "Etage trois". The sound is irreprochable (unlike the other cd where the recording level is too high and some tracks are over saturated, if you see what I mean), and the tempo is a bit higher. The overall quality of the songs and the mix is also better (all the tracks are mixed and you have no timeout between them). Of course, you still find strange tracks that some will find absolutely cheesy (Actor Yves Montand telling a funny story in "pour faire le dessin d'un oiseau". It is an overdub and a tribute, because Montand passed away several years ago, but it is really too long). However I really appreciated listening to Grace Jones again, and the closing track (love the DJ) is top. Curiously enough, just as for the other cd, it only really gets hot after 8 cuts. From there on it's close to ecstasy... The packaging is great, with some comments about the club in a brochure you will find inside the sleeve. Even if it's not the best cd in this genre that I have, it's recommendable if you have been there (I haven't yet) and are nostalgic, or if you like to have a cd to play when having friends over, or to go clubbing without even leaving your house or your car.
	Various Artists - Bossa Mundo: When Brazil Meets The World
	"Don't miss this one. Really..."	2001-04-02
For some reason I have bought lately a bunch of cds of what some call "esoteric" music. A mood thing I suppose. Om Lounge, Hi fidelity lounge, The amalgamation of soundz, Cafe del mar, and even Hotel Costes are my other purchases. I haven't got Buddah Bar so I won't talk about that, but I must say that of all the cds I have mentioned, this one is the best. By far. The tempo is fine, the balance between purely instrumental tracks and sung ones is also perfect, and you say to yourself at the ned of the record "That's it ?". No need to say that the repeat button has been hit consistently with this one (in my car and in my house). This cd is good to play when you have guests over, but could also be heard on the beach or in good clubs of cities such as N.Y., San Francisco, London or Paris. Especially spectacular are "Miss Loneliness" (the percussion here is amazing), "Outro lugar" (An upbeat version in Brazilian of Stevie Wonder's "Another star"), "Vai minha tristeza", and "Plein Soleil" (performed in French by a Japanese), which remembers me of "Fade to grey" by Visage (remember that one ?). In fact, I'm sure Jean Paul Maulnick (Incognito) must like this cd. Prepare a Daiquiri or a Caipirinha and enjoy 14 tracks and over 74 minutes of great music (even my Father likes it, hehehe).You will feel you spent your money wisely...
	Level 42 - Physical Presence
	"Indispensable."	2001-03-30
If you are reading this, you already know how great this band was, and I will not repeat what you have read from others. What I can tell you is that this is a long awaited treat. It was released originally on vinyl and then came a cd version that did not contain all the tracks from the vinyl. This one does ! This is one of the most spectacular albums recorded live I have ever heard (Frampton comes alive is another, Erykah Badu live is another). I have had the privilege of seeing these blokes perform live three times and this is still better than any of the performances I attended... Like Mark King says at the beginning of "The chant has begun", You're gonna sit... The album was recorded in 1985, but the music doesn't have a single wrinkle. Besides, songs like "Kansas city milkman", "Hotwater", or "Almost there" are even better than the studio version, which says a lot. You'll also find rareties ("88", "Mr. Pink", or the long bass solo on "Love games") that make this album unique and indispensable in your collection. A great example of superb jazz-funk made by Brits. You'll love it if you like the music of Herbie Hancock and Marcus Miller.
	Stephen Simmonds - Spirit Tales [Clean]
	"Absolutely fabulous."	2000-12-18
Two years after being released only in some parts of Europe, this cd is now available to everyone in the world, and it is really good news. Compared to the European release, there are a couple of extra tracks and the front sleeve is, to my opinion, much better. Now to the music : it is a fine blend of lyricism ("tears never dry" and it's spectacular chorus, the very Parisian "Let it go"), pure soul ("Searchin", "4U", "Alone") and more upbeat tunes ("now's the time", or the Rashaan Patterson like "Get down"). This is an album you have to listen to SEVERAL TIMES before REALLY getting to like it, probably because of three things : 1/ Some arrangements are a bit unusual (you'll hear powerful strings you don't normally hear on other records in this genre, a strong presence of piano on several tracks, arabic/oriental instuments on "Universe"), but they work great and give a different touch to the sound. 2/ A false mid tempo you'll find on many tracks. This makes you think at first the whole record sounds the same, but all the tracks have their own flow and power. 3/ The tracks chosen by the company to promote the record aren't the right ones for promo... If you like artists such as Maxwell, Ephraim Lewis, Rashaan Patterson, or Frank McComb, or in other words, artists that bring something different to music for the new millenium, you shouldn't be disappointed with this one. To me, one of the albums of the year...