The Music Lounge.... and Music Review thread

[mdabb]

.


..................The Blu-ray.com Music Lounge..................



Welcome... to the Blu-ray.com ...Music Lounge & Music Review Thread... A place where you can share, rate, and review "What music you are currently listening to or have listened to recently" with fellow members.



(1) Please post a pic of the album(s).

(2) Rate the music itself & sound Quality.

(3) Review it !!! (optional, but encouraged)

If you would like leave a personal review, how far in depth is completely up to you !!! The important thing is to have fun with it !!!

Doesn't matter if it's vinyl, CD, Dual-Disc, SACD, DVD-A, Blu-ray, etc........... Album cover images can be easily found all over web at places like Amazon, Discography, etc... Or if you want to snap and share your own pic(s), great !!! Want others to hear samples of what you are listening to ? Include a link !!! If you like, include what label, catalog #, anything you wish to help others identify what you are talking about. Keep in mind, this doesn't need to be something you just recently bought, it could be something you've had forever.



Due to popular demand........................

Share, rate, & review your Blu-Ray Concert discs !!!!! It's all about the music, right !!!




Example...........


Johnny Cash-At Folsom Prison Original vinyl release - Columbia

Sound Quality: 4/5 Music: 5/5 Recommended

Listen to samples..........
http://www.amazon.com/gp/recsradio/r...gSuffix=dp_img




Again, have fun & participate often !!! Enjoy the music & share...........

.

[Johnny Vinyl]

Hi Andrew!

I think it's a fantastic idea, and I just proposed the same idea to Fred in a PM as he wanted me to give him a review.

I think many people would love to see a music-based review thread, and I think it would go over really well. Open up the thread to any format with a stipulation...physical media only...no crappy MP3's or other types of downloads.

I'm ready to post a review!

John

[mdabb]

Hopefully we'll get some more feedback as this will belong to everyone. I'm up for any kind of changes/suggestions. I just always enjoyed these types of threads elsewhere and find them a bit of fun

Input wanted !!!


Also want to get some feedback on the official thread title.

John's = "Music Review Thread"

[Muscleduck]

Muse - The Resistance

If you like Muse, this album is a must-buy. Unfortunately I've only had the chance to listen to it on my laptop with onboard soundcard, but still, a fantastic album.

Metallica S&M DVD

I paid 20 euro's for this and it's worth it imho. Sound quality is better than the CD and it's cool to have the small talk between songs and of course seeing the band and orchestra. Menu's are a pain tho. If you want to choose a different audio track you have to go back to the main menu, select sound options etc.

[FreddieFerric]

Originally Posted by John72953

Hi Andrew!

I think it's a fantastic idea, and I just proposed the same idea to Fred in a PM as he wanted me to give him a review.

I think many people would love to see a music-based review thread, and I think it would go over really well. Open up the thread to any format with a stipulation...physical media only...no crappy MP3's or other types of downloads.

I'm ready to post a review!

John

Let have it! What's the new Lindsay Buckinham LP about. (need more than smilies, etc. )

Originally Posted by mdabb

Hopefully we'll get some more feedback as this will belong to everyone. I'm up for any kind of changes/suggestions. I just always enjoyed these types of threads elsewhere and find them a bit of fun

Input wanted !!!


Also want to get some feedback on the official thread title.

John's = "Music Review Thread"

Hey Andrew, now that the Michell is in the system, I'm revisiting many old lp's that I've had for years! It's been quite time consuming and rewarding. The flip side is that I haven't been paying much attention to cd's or other digtal formats. I'll try to focus a bit on a particular lp and then write up a review.

[mdabb]

Ella Fitzgerald-Twelve Nights In Hollywood. Four Disc CD Boxset

Where does a person begin with this special treat ??? This is a limited edition (8000 sets) CD boxset of never before released live performances. Although I've only listened to the first two discs, this is indeed pure enjoyment. Heck, I just love even hearing Ella say "thank you, thank you" to the audience . Once I finish with discs 2 & 3, I will come back and finish my thoughts.

Product wise, "Twelve Nights In Hollywood" is a beautiful looking package. It basically looks like a 7 1/2" x 7 1/2" x 3/4" book that sits inside a slip case. Inside you'll find about 36-40 pages of photos & background info. But, I don't like how the discs are housed. Each of the four discs rest inside a cardboard page. This makes it very hard to slide the disc in & out without getting your fingerprints on the disc. This also makes the discs susceptible to scratching. But, just like I do with all my CD's. I take them out & put them in a lined CD sleeve. Just makes things easier the whole way around & takes up less shelf space.

Sound Quality is very nice (4 out of 5). You have to take into account that these are live recordings, and the age of the recordings themselves. This is about the music & there is plenty of great music here !!! A must for Ella Fitzgerald fans !!! More than likely this is going to be a very hard to find item (it already is).




Bill Withers' Greatest Hits. Original Vinyl release

This is a excellent "greatest hits" album !!! If you enjoy the music & style that only Bill Withers can deliver, this is for you !!! Classics like "Ain't No Sunshine", "Grandma's Hands", "Just the Two Of Us", "Lovely Day", & more are all here !!! This is a great sounding LP & sure to please !!!



Floaters (self titled) Original Vinyl Release

Well, I got this LP for only one reason........... & that is the classic "Float On". For those who enjoy Classic Soul music, this may be for you. The album as a whole is very enjoyable too. The sound quality is very nice & clear !!! Dig it.........



Van Halen-1984. Original Vinyl Release

My favorite Van Halen album Classic songs "Jump", "Panama", & "Hot For Teacher" are very enjoyable here. Sound quality is pretty good, but some tracks are better than others !!! Very fun to rock out to !!!



Cyndi Lauper-She's So Unusual. Original Vinyl Release

Classic 80's pop I'm sure this album needs no introduction... Sound quality is excellent & a must have on vinyl !!! Very fun & enjoyable !!!







As far as "official thread title" how about " The Music Lounge - music review thread". Like I said, I'm all open to suggestions so anyone feel free to jump in.

Later

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by mdabb

As far as "official thread title" how about " The Music Lounge - music review thread". Like I said, I'm all open to suggestions so anyone feel free to jump in.

Later

Hi Andrew,

Just walked in the door! Love the proposed thread title!

John

[Johnny Vinyl]

Lindsey Buckingham - Gift Of Screws.JPG
__________________________________________

Artist: Lindsey Buckingham
Album: Gift of Screws
Format: 180-gram LP (includes bonus CD)
Release Date: 2008
Mastered by: Bernie Grundman
__________________________________________

PRODUCT QUALITY:
This vinyl LP came in a very attractive package. The print quality of the jacket and inner insert of liner notes and lyrics is first-rate. The vinyl was carefully protected by a high-grade (I believe 5-mil) anti-static sleeve, and it felt very luxurious.

The label however was not centred properly and that concerned me. After inspection and careful viewing of the LP while in motion, I could not deter any off-centre issue with the spindle hole, which was of great relief. Obviously the label die-cut was the issue here.

7 of of 10 (off-centre labels are a major defect for me)
__________________________________________

SONICS:
This album is alive and full of emotion. Lindsey's acoustic virtuosity comes across clearly and distinctively and when the focus is on him, it gets projected across both front channels with equal energy. The soundstage is not overly wide, but there is a great deal of presence and three-dimensionality. I did think that the supporting musicians at times could have received a more intense focus, as some parts in certain songs sounded somewhat flat. Had this been done, I think it would have given the album a slightly better punch.

8 out of 10
_________________________________________

PERFORMANCE:
Although I could assume that everyone knows who Lindsey Buckingham is, for those who are not let me give you a bit of a background. Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks (who he was romantically involved with at the time) joined Fleetwood Mac at the request of that band's founding member Peter Green. Peter named the band after the surnames of two of his bandmates, Mick Fleetwood and John McVie. Lindsey insisted, that unless Stevie was included, he would not join. And the rest I suppose is history.

I put on side One and within 10 seconds the name Fleetwood Mac came to mind. It comforted me somewhat as I've always been a fan of the band. More significantly though, I realized how much Lindsey's guitar work was the bone of the Fleetwood Mac sound. I have a whole new appreciation of Lindsey's acoustic guitar abilities than before.

As I progressed through the first side and then Side Two, I did also come to the realization that Mr. Buckingham's voice is rather weak. He struggles often, but the accompanying cast helps to subdue that weakness. The wonderful melodies and reminders in the songs of his history as a Fleetwood Mac member soon made me forget his lack of vocal inspiration.

In the end this solo effort, his 5th or 6th, left me with a wonderful smile on my face. I tapped my feet throughout the several listening sessions and the album is growing on me more and more. No question that this album was a fairly safe solo attempt, but it works. I think you'll like it!

7 out of 10
________________________________________

FINAL SCORE: 7.5 out of 10
________________________________________

So there you have it! My first attempt at writing somewhat of a review on an album that I bought as a blind buy and had no expectations of.

John

[FreddieFerric]

Originally Posted by John72953

Attachment 11238
__________________________________________

Artist: Lindsey Buckingham
Album: Gift of Screws
Format: 180-gram LP (includes bonus CD)
Release Date: 2008
Mastered by: Bernie Grundman
__________________________________________

PRODUCT QUALITY:
This vinyl LP came in a very attractive package. The print quality of the jacket and inner insert of liner notes and lyrics is first-rate. The vinyl was carefully protected by a high-grade (I believe 5-mil) anti-static sleeve, and it felt very luxurious.

The label however was not centred properly and that concerned me. After inspection and careful viewing of the LP while in motion, I could not deter any off-centre issue with the spindle hole, which was of great relief. Obviously the label die-cut was the issue here.

7 of of 10 (off-centre labels are a major defect for me)
__________________________________________

SONICS:
This album is alive and full of emotion. Lindsey's acoustic virtuosity comes across clearly and distinctively and when the focus is on him, it gets projected across both front channels with equal energy. The soundstage is not overly wide, but there is a great deal of presence and three-dimensionality. I did think that the supporting musicians at times could have received a more intense focus, as some parts in certain songs sounded somewhat flat. Had this been done, I think it would have given the album a slightly better punch.

8 out of 10
_________________________________________

PERFORMANCE:
Although I could assume that everyone knows who Lindsey Buckingham is, for those who are not let me give you a bit of a background. Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks (who he was romantically involved with at the time) joined Fleetwood Mac at the request of that band's founding member Peter Green. Peter named the band after the surnames of two of his bandmates, Mick Fleetwood and John McVie. Lindsey insisted, that unless Stevie was included, he would not join. And the rest I suppose is history.

I put on side One and within 10 seconds the name Fleetwood Mac came to mind. It comforted me somewhat as I've always been a fan of the band. More significantly though, I realized how much Lindsey's guitar work was the bone of the Fleetwood Mac sound. I have a whole new appreciation of Lindsey's acoustic guitar abilities than before.

As I progressed through the first side and then Side Two, I did also come to the realization that Mr. Buckingham's voice is rather weak. He struggles often, but the accompanying cast helps to subdue that weakness. The wonderful melodies and reminders in the songs of his history as a Fleetwood Mac member soon made me forget his lack of vocal inspiration.

In the end this solo effort, his 5th or 6th, left me with a wonderful smile on my face. I tapped my feet throughout the several listening sessions and the album is growing on me more and more. No question that this album was a fairly safe solo attempt, but it works. I think you'll like it!

7 out of 10
________________________________________

FINAL SCORE: 7.5 out of 10
________________________________________

So there you have it! My first attempt at writing somewhat of a review on an album that I bought as a blind buy and had no expectations of.

John

Damn John! I just wanted to know if it was good or not and you had to come up with this slick presentation! Very well done job sir. I was wondering if this would be Fleewood Mac-esque. I certainly appreciate your comments about his voice limitations as I agree with you on that, although I had really forgotten about it.

I guess one question that still comes to mind is what is the percentage of acoustic/electric balance. Is this predominately an acoustic release? Perhaps you could edit your review to let other readers know about this. Overall, great job. Now I have to rethink how I would review an lp. Also, a listing of the supporting musicians would be very helpful as some of us are very familiar with numerous session musicians.

[jomari]

im not as slick as John is, but i hope my selection can make up for it...




SACD version


DVD-audio version

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by BluRayFred

Damn John! I just wanted to know if it was good or not and you had to come up with this slick presentation! Very well done job sir. I was wondering if this would be Fleewood Mac-esque. I certainly appreciate your comments about his voice limitations as I agree with you on that, although I had really forgotten about it.

I guess one question that still comes to mind is what is the percentage of acoustic/electric balance. Is this predominately an acoustic release? Perhaps you could edit your review to let other readers know about this. Overall, great job. Now I have to rethink how I would review an lp. Also, a listing of the supporting musicians would be very helpful as some of us are very familiar with numerous session musicians.

Thanks Fred!

The album is very well balanced in terms of the acoustical and electrical guitar work, although I'd give a slight edge on the acoustic side as those are the strongest songs in my opinion.

I thought about including the setlist and the supporting musicians, but I thought that would appear to make a single post a little drawn out. I am however perfectly willing to include it on the next review.

John

PS~ I really had a lot of fun writing it, but it took a few listens and I'm still far from truly describing this as they probably should be. I'm learning though...at least I hope I am.

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by jomari

im not as slick as John is, but i hope my selection can make up for it...




SACD version


DVD-audio version

Hi Jomari!

Anyone who includes TIME OUT and TIGERLILLY is ok in my book!

John

[mdabb]

Hey guys !!!

Added some thoughts above............ glad to see people enjoying this !!!


I'll have to go back & change/update a few things in the first post. Will have time later tonight though. Will also be asking for a name change to: The Music Lounge... Music Review Thread.

[Clark Kent]

Great idea for a thread. Maybe if I get some time I will add a few off-the-wall selections.

[ManUtd]

This is a very interesting thread for me. Over lunch I just happen to stumble upon this sacd.



A quick check on the reviews revealed that this is supposedly one very good album. I will see if I can write a small review later.

[D]

Andrew, John, thanks for the invite, much appreciated fellas! I will post something soon, and great idea, and thread title! D.

[ddgtr]

One of the best recorded cd's I've heard to date: Pepe Romero's Flamenco in K2HD CD, recorded directly from the master copy.

[Hammie]

I've been listening to this album a lot lately. My copy is from the B&W Society of Music Club and was downloaded in ALAC format. However, it can be purchased from Amazon.



Track List:

1. Taq on the Beat
2. Kalashnik Love
3. Killing an Arab (The Cure cover song)
4. Qat Market
5. Dubai
6. Galvanize (The Chemical Brothers cover song)
7. Erotic Chiftetelli
8. Parov Yegar Siroon Var
9. Idemo Dalje
10. Daddy Lolo
11. Hotel Zyannides
12. Aissa Wah
13. Daddy Lolo Sidestepper (remix)
14. Aissa Wah (Mo DJ remix)

Setup:

Files stored on Mac Mini connected via Gig-E to an Apple TV. Apple TV connected via HDMI to Denon 3808ci receiver. Amplification provided by Emotiva powering B&W 804S speakers.

Review:

This album is very unique. This is a Middle East meets West collaboration. The founder of the group is Arab musician, Mehdi Haddab. He is best known for his lute playing skills, a banjo-like instrument. However, on this album it is an electric Oud, a modern version of a lute.

A majority of the music is faster paced so this may not want to be something you listen to when you really want to chill out and relax.

The do two cover songs. The first is The Cure's 'Killing an Arab.' They do a nice job with the remix. However, the original is still my favorite version. The second song is The Chemical Brothers 'Galvanize.' If you like the song (which was made popular by Budweiser in the commercials a few years ago), this version will not disappoint. I personally like this version 100 times better. I think the tempo, instrument choices, and added rap lyrics really enhance the song.

The remainder of the songs produce a very strong presence. Highs are very defined. Mids and bass are nice and tight. Sound is full and not lacking on any track. I think the mixing was spot on and was very well done.

In conclusion, this album will not be for everyone. If the Middle Eastern sound with the lute (and many Arabic -- I think -- lyrics) infused into a rock sound doesn't interest you, then you probably won't like this. However, if you want to try something different, pick this up and give it a listen. You may just be surprised of what you hear.

[richteer]

What a great thread idea, Andrew. Nice one! And a great review of Lindsey Buckingham's album by John, too!

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by louhamilton

I've been listening to this album a lot lately. My copy is from the B&W Society of Music Club and was downloaded in ALAC format. However, it can be purchased from Amazon.



Track List:

1. Taq on the Beat
2. Kalashnik Love
3. Killing an Arab (The Cure cover song)
4. Qat Market
5. Dubai
6. Galvanize (The Chemical Brothers cover song)
7. Erotic Chiftetelli
8. Parov Yegar Siroon Var
9. Idemo Dalje
10. Daddy Lolo
11. Hotel Zyannides
12. Aissa Wah
13. Daddy Lolo Sidestepper (remix)
14. Aissa Wah (Mo DJ remix)

Setup:

Files stored on Mac Mini Connected via Gig-E to an Apple TV. Apple TV connected via HDMI to Denon 3808ci receiver. Amplification provided by Emotiva powering B&W 804S speakers.

Review:

This album is very unique. This is a Middle East meets West collaboration. The founder of the group is Arab musician, Mehdi Haddab. He is best known for his lute playing skills, a banjo-like instrument. However, on this album it is an electric Oud, a modern version of a lute.

A majority of the music is faster paced so this may not want to be something you listen to when you really want to chill out and relax.

The do two cover songs. The first is The Cure's 'Killing an Arab.' They do a nice job with the remix. However, the original is still my favorite version. The second song is The Chemical Brothers 'Galvanize.' If you like the song (which was made popular by Budweiser in the commercials a few years ago), this version will not disappoint. I personally like this version 100 times better. I think the tempo, instrument choices, and added rap lyrics really enhance the song.

The remainder of the songs produce a very strong presence. Highs are very defined. Mids and bass are nice and tight. Sound is full and not lacking on any track. I think the mixing was spot on and was very well done.

In conclusion, this album will not be for everyone. If the Middle Eastern sound with the lute (and many Arabic -- I think -- lyrics) infused into a rock sound doesn't interest you, then you probably won't like this. However, if you want to try something different, pick this up and give it a listen. You may just be surprised of what you hear.

Great review Lou! Will have gander at this release and see if I can get some samples. Sounds interesting though!

John