Alternative Artists music reviews

When Roadrunner Records first started out, there were a handfull of bands that kept the label rolling, and while this compilation has a few good moments, it misses the mark for the most part. Sure, Slipknot helped catapault Roadrunner to superstar record label status, but they don't belong on here, and neither does lead singer Corey Taylor's Stone Sour band either. Of all the Sepultura songs that could be included on here, they picked "Roots Bloody Roots", which was the band's only real hit. Anything from "Beneath the Remains", "Arise", or "Chaos A.D." would have been a better selection. Coal Chamber and Killswitch Engage helped find the label success as well, but they don't belong on here either, and neither does Max Cavalera's Soulfly. Not to mention that material from Fear Factory and Type O Negative should have been from their debut albums, instead of the more recent hits. Thankfully, someone remembered the band's that made Roadrunner a force to be reckoned with at one time: Deicide, King Diamond, Life of Agony, Obituary, and Nailbomb; but where is Mercyful Fate, Death, and Biohazard? Who knows, but for everything this compilation does wrong, it does a lot right. Thankfully they decided not to include any tracks from Nickelback.

This is a great cd Ididn't expect much from.I bought it for 4.99
at my fav record store.here are the best tunes and why i chose
them.
1. Fear Factory-Replica.Fear Factory kick ass and this is one of
their best songs.Never slow and always crunchy and heavy
2.Killswitch Engage-In the Unblind.KSE kick the sh@t out of every
one,I like Howard Jones,But Jesse was the man.
3.Sepultura-Roots Bloody Roots.A classic tribal/metal tune from
the Calvera brothers and co.
4.Chimaira-Fascination St.Melodic and relentless at times.GREAT.
5.Decide-.Got to have some all out death once in a while.
Well those are stand outs the rest are good though.

this incredible album is a compilation of artist from roadrunner records back in 2003! i highly recomend this cd to anyone who is or has become interested in metal. the heart of roadrunner records compilation has a very very VERY good selection of talented artist new and old.
and about a half of the songs are exclusive, like the remix of "spit it out" by slipknot and "unreal" by ill nino. it also includes the cover of the cures dark "fascination street" by chimara, which is actually pretty good even though its about 5 minutes long. the classic song "roots bloody roots" by sepultura is very catchy song and was a great way to kick of this cd. what i enjoyed the most on this compilation though was the song "brujeria" by brujerizmo! which is a very unique mexican heavy metal band. during the song "dead by dawn" by deicide they scream like frogs croaking, which is interesting i guess... i like all of the other songs to although i am sort of disapointed by the soulfly song because its kind of retarded and anoying, it sounds more punk rockish and is only a minute and 30 seconds long. but the song i really hate is the song "abigail" by king diamond. the guy screams like a little girl, its sounds really anoying. but other than that this is a great compilation and the inserts include long list of roadrunner artist during 2003 and small portrates of all the bands on the inside cover except Nailbomb and Brujerizmo. o'yeah song number 3, "In the unblind" is by Killswitch Engage!

I also own Pure Moods II and can say that I find this CD equally enjoyable-except for the X-Files and Tubular Bells tracks. I had no clue that "Tubular Bells" was the theme song to The Exorcist, until I listened to it for the first time after purchasing the CD. I can't figure out why they put these 2 songs on this CD, considering it's not the type of music that puts you in the "purist of moods". Maybe had I never seen The Exorcist or watched an episode of X-Files, I could enjoy the music for what it is, but I guess I'll be forever tainted. And, trust me, I've tried getting past my "fears", but every time I listen to these two particular songs, all I see are images of Agents Scully & Mulder chasing after some alien or Linda Blair's spinning head.

Overall, if you can get past the creepy tracks, it's an excellent CD.

This original Pure Moods CD is a great CD. I think all 4 CDs in this series (so far) are good but none are as complete as this CD is. Though there are many different "new age" styles on this CD it still manages to work fine. From the beginning with Enigma (you can't go wrong with Enigma) to Miram Stockley's heavenly voice(s) in "Adiemus" to the sexy sax of Candy Dulfer in "Lily was Here" you can't go wrong with this CD. The other Pure Moods are also worth a listen as well as "Levitation" by Digital Moodz and the 2 Relax CD's from Blank and Jones.

I've always enjoyed Pure Moods and this album is no exception, but while reading some of the customer recommendations posted on this site I discovered a group by the name of Mehdi (pronounced meddie). After an online search I found their site (SoothingMusic - Com) and listened to the samples...
I was instantly blown away by the quality of this music and so I gave it a try and now that I have listened to these CDs several times I really must say that although I'm still a Pure Moods fan, I find Mehdi to be a great addition to this CD. I have them both in my multi-disc CD player and love the way they compliment each other. I highly recommend that you give this artist a try or atleast just go listen to the samples, I have a feeling you'll be glad you did.

The film that this soundtrack represents (when it's actually in print) was a funny little gem, and from the Breakfast Club on, John Hughes always made sure that his soundtracks were very carefully assembled.

In this case, some great alt-rock from Gene Loves Jezebel ("Desire"), a classic crooner by Bryan Ferry ("Crazy Love"), a Smiths cover by Kirsty MacColl ("You Just Haven't Earned It Yet Baby"), and one of Kate Bush's best tracks ("This Woman's Work") round out a phenomenal collection of essential 80s tracks.

According to moviemusic.com this title is to be released on 3/25/03

this movie is a john hughes classic!!! the soundtrack is awsome... kate bush's the woman's work is eerie and just perfect for the scene....please rerelease this sound track I.R.S. music!!! bring it back!!!

I thought this CD is very inspirational. It goes along very well with the Touched by an Angel DVDs.

This Touched By An Angel (TBAA) soundtrack is ab-soul-utely amazing. Combining the essence of music with the words of God, each song is delightfully pleasant and warming to the ears. It is a magnificent album, and songs from Wynonna Judd and Della Reese will just blow you away. I find the show very touching and comforting, and this music compliments that show. It is a touching cross between Dido and Richard Clayderman, and a must-have for anybody and everybody of all ages.

I personally loved this album and it's helped me through some tough times as a teenager. One of my best friends commited suicide and no lie this c-d really did help me get through some of the things that I was going through it was very uplifting and very spiritual and I needed that at that point in time. The message in all of the songs is very well thought out and not just that but the songs are very catchy and addicting. Especially "Testify to love" which was sung by Wynonna in the 100th episode of Touched by An Angel. I'm still not which one was better this great song or that great episode. If you love the show buy this c-d and if you love this c-d watch the show.

Truefully, there isn't much to say. Soundbombing II is one of the best compilation albums that I have heard, brought to you by a company once known as Rawkus Records. The album is mixed by The Beat Junkies, some of the best DJ work I've ever heard on any album. Artists such as Talib Kweli, Mos Def, Pharohe Monch, Sadat X, and others come correct on just about every verse you've heard. Eminem handles his job on the track "Any Man", the best I've ever heard him rhyme. Talib Kweli and Bahamadia swap verses on the song "Chaos". Dialated People's join up with Tha Alkaholik's member Tash, for the song "Soundbombing". One of the best tracks is the Common and Sadat X song "1-9-9-9" on one of the most relaxed beats. Then the next track is Diamond D's "When It Pours, It Rains", which isn't bad but its short. Theres a 12" version where him and Jon Doe swap verses that should have been on here, but its a good track still. Also a lot of artists make special appearances throughout the album.

Overall I enjoyed this comp. Just like the reviewer said below me, this album is where you can hear most of your favorite artists, while they were still good behind the mic. I recommend this album just for those people and any hip hop heads. You will not be dissapointed (unlike the next Soundbombing)

Lyrics: A+
Production: A
Guest Appearances (well duh): A+
Overall: A+

Standout tracks: Any Man, Crosstown Beef, Soundbombing, Patriotism, 1-9-9-9, Chaos, Every Rhyme I Write

Honorable Mention Track: When It Pours

There isn't really a whole lot that I can add to the other eviews. Soundbombing is classic material. Point blank. Period. If you're relatively new to rap music and you want to hear what some of your favorites sounded like before they started to slip (like Eminem, Dilated Peoples, High & Mighty, etc...), then get this album. This album is the perfect embodiment of what Rawkus stood for at its peak. Tight beats, dope rhymes, and two top notch DJs [J-Rocc & Babu aka The Bumrush Brothers] scratching and blending every song in an outstanding fashion.

As far as negative aspects, there are none. This album is simply flawless in my humble opinion. Without being too dramatic, I'd have to say that albums like these are simply impossible to recreate (which is why Soundbombing III pales in comparison). Soundbombing II is truly a once in a lifetime experience. Man, I really miss the old Rawkus days.

Like I said man, this album is the perfect representation of what Rawkus in its prime stood for. It simply doesn't get better than this. If you consider yourself a fan of "real" hip hop, then quit reading this review and click the "buy" button A.S.A.P.

Standout Tracks: On Mission, Patriotism, 1-9-9-9, Any Man [My Favorite], Stanley Kubrick, Chaos, Crosstown Beef, B-Boy Document, and Every Time I Write

Really great CD, alot of good artists on it. Little bit of comedy as well. This was when Rawkus was in its prime. If you want a mix CD, this is the first one you should buy. Every song is hot, not one track should be skipped. Even the Eminem song is hot. It's a 5 star album so pick it up.

Some of the songs on these two CD's were GREAT, but some did not appeal to me (this is just MY opinion). My favorite songs are "I Want to Know You (In the Secret)," "Stranded," "Show You Love," "Can't Live A Day," and "Friend of Mine (Columbine)". Another good song is "Waiting Room". I recommend this CD to anyone who likes good Contemporary Christian music.

This has some really good songs on it. If you're like me and don't want to buy albums, and just get a bunch of the most popular songs for the year, then I highly recommend it.

The WOW selection of Christian CDs is amazing. They have compiled CDs full of the best of today's contemporary Christian artists, and have done it successfully. With WOW 2000, you get a little bit of everything. From my personal favorite, dc Talk, to Chris Rice, to Third Day, Jaci Velasquez, Audio Adrenaline, Jars Of Clay, Michael W. Smith, etc. This list goes on and on. There is even a song by The W's from the show VeggieTales called 'The Rumor Weed Song' which is obviously geared toward little children but is great for people of all ages. The WOW collections have amazed millions of adults, teens, and children all across America. You can not go wrong by buying these collections. The songs are very spiritual and uplifting and are great for anyone who is trying to start a Christian music collection or for someone who is adding to their collection. I highly recommend this CD. If you enjoy this one, try the other WOW Christian compilations. Buy this one right away, you will love it forever!

With a voice that can only be described as unworldly and ethereal, Loreena Mckennitt, with vocal and harp alike lifts the soul and offers a rare moment of beauty. Her interpretations of classic ballads marks this as an important album and indeed listening to it, I've often felt my heart skip a beat. That such a great talent has gone so long without producing a new album remains a loss for all music lovers, but at least we can take solace in this marvelous work.

Truly a must have.

This is a wonderful album on many reasons. Like most McKennitt fans I held off from buying it because I already had the songs on other CDs. This first CD is really a complete performance of The Book of Secrets, and the second is a carefully chosen selection from The Visit and The Mask and The Mirror (plus a hidden bit, which as you will see shortly could probably be considered a lament and a memory). By and large McKennitt stays very true to the original recordings. Tempo's are generally slightly slower, although there are exceptions like The Highwayman, which is a full minute faster here.

There are subtle differences everywhere in phrasing and the inner working of her group. In a piece like The Mummer's Dance, for instance, you become much more aware of the workings on the strings. And songs like The Lady of Shallot and Dante's Prayer reach a level that can only be described as perfection. Live performance is the acid test of a musician's powers, and everyone in the group, from the likes of Brian Hughes and Hugh Marsh to La McKennitt herself, achieves everything that could be desired.

This was McKennitt's last album, put together in 1999. Suddenly a brilliant and fertile career came to a halt, with nothing about why every being said. The sole clue to the hiatus is two lines in the album folder dedicating the album to the memory of Ronald Douglas Rees and mentioning the Cook-Rees Memorial Fund For Water Search And Safety. Ronald Rees was Lorena McKennitt's fianc� and he died unexpectedly while she was wrapping up this album. For some time she was completely silent, but has gradually increased her performances again. Now a visit to her website reveals that another album is in progress. Good for us, and very good for Loreena as well.

If for no other reason than that on two CDs you have many of McKennitt's songs done beautifully you should by this. For the newcomer, I can't imagine a better introduction to the work of a woman who is scholar, minstrel, and beauty. For the fan it is a reward for the affection of a singer/songwriter who has stayed steadily true to her vision of what should be, rather than fall to the lure of pop culture.

Loreena McKennitt's music -- and her otherworldly voice -- are a rare gift. Surely her music is "Celtic", but so many other influences are incorporated here -- and the amazing thing is how well they mesh. I've never been lucky enough to catch any of her live performances, but this 2-CD set captures what the atmosphere must be like at one of her concerts: a dreaming, oceanic, passionate, and haunting (yes, I have to use that word!) few hours spent in the company of a phenomenally talented artist and her traveling band, completely simpatico with her musical sensibilities. Highly recommended. If the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood had a soundtrack, Loreena McKenitt's music would surely be on it.

If you read the other reviews you know how important the music is to the program. Here is the twist most soundtracks are quite shocking and awfull however because of the effort that went into the planning of the music and series, this incredible CD has come about Im only 20 and was 10 when i first started watching this program on my flight to australia from the UK i watched the pilot about 4 times and the when i got to oz. The music is what really stands out trust me if you never seen the program the music is just as powerfull on its own. please BUY IT to give back to a great show and you will get an awsome CD out of it !!!!!!

Excellent sampling of music from the tv series. I wish there were more original score pieces, but what's provided is great and really takes me back to nights watching this great production faithfully every week with my sister...how we used to smile when that opening theme began (watching Fraser tumbling thru that awning...)!! Playing the cd in the car I have a big grin on my face listening to it...other drivers must be getting a kick. Also, the sound quality on this recording is fantastic - crystal clear.

All good things must end, but what a great show this was. One of the best in the history of television, in any country. Truly zany, groundbreaking, poignant, and too many other positive adjectives to list. Pity the person who wasn't a fan! If you were a Due South-er, you must order this cd.

Besides being a tongue-in-cheek TV series produced by Canadians and acted by Canadians-pretending-to-be-Americans judging Canadians and filmed in Toronto (supposedly Chicago), Due South had an amazing roster of Canadian musical talent spanning generations. This is the more "Due Southy" of the two soundtracks, and there was plenty more great music that never made it on the DS CDs.

This first "Due South" soundtrack features some lesser-known (to Americans south of the border) Canadian artists such as Kashtin (Quebec First Nations group), Klaatu, the Northern Pikes (who recently reunited), Figgy Duff, Blue Rodeo and the Holly Cole Trio, Paul Gross (Benton Fraser/director and exec producer of last two seasons), along with Sarah McLachlan and The Guess Who.

The songs featured range from whimsical (Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft), folksy (Due South Theme, Bone of Contention, Figgy Duff, Ride Forever), native (Akua Tuta), and rock (Possession, American Woman). There are also snippets of the original score (Horses, Cabin Music featuring bad boy fiddle virtuoso Ashley MacIsaac, Victoria's Secret, Inuit Soliloquy, Dief's In Love) by Jack Lenz that capture Fraser's yearning for the silent white north of his childhood, piano driven, wistful laments on lost love, action sequences....this is a Canadian soundtrack at its best. It is the essence of "Due South" on CD. This is also more family-friendly than the second "Due South" CD that features adult language and some very dark songs.

The pieces in this wonderful album are presented with true spirit and tons of talent. As a whole, it gives the impression of real worship, and a celebration of the artists' faith. Lots of albums seem to showcase the performer's talent, but this one goes a step beyond and actually comes across as really worshipping God and giving honor to Him. Bravo to the many artists who collaborated on this inspired CD. It moves me every time I listen to it. It is what art should always be... inspired!

than this is the cd for you. It is filled with wonderful worship songs that drive us straight to the cross. My favorite one is "Merciful Rain" by FFH. I wasn't really familiar with most of the artists when I bought this cd. I had just heard the first song on the radio "God of Wonders" by Caedman's Call and knew God was speaking to me through it. I bought a copy for my friend and she loved it too. It is hard to find beautiful, up to date sounding Christian music so I was thrilled when I found this. There is a "sequel" : City on a Hill:Sing Allelujiah which is also good. Enjoy drawing closer to God when you listen to this terrific music.

City on a Hill is an exciting compilation of a new, fresh kind of worship music. The music is not tainted w/pop music beats and music, but is rather a clean mix of rhythm, simple lyrics and a slightly modern beat.

This music is not the typical "churchy" worship music. It is unique and stands alone in its own genre.

It may sound like harsh judgement but there were only two songs that intrigued me and that I could see someone using on a film score. But as a whole it really is a pretty mediocre and forgetable CD. It actually serves its purpose though as it can put you to sleep as well as any other lullaby but I was hoping for something that would serve me better as background music as I sit at this PowerBook. Bottom line: It's OK but it sure ain't Heroin!

An excellent collection of peaceful, consoling music from around the world. Possibly if everyone experienced such music and went to sleep at ease with the world, they would wake up to a better world.

We bought this for our grandson who is now almost 3yrs old. We are purchasing another CD for our new grandbaby who is on the way. This is the most calming & beautiful music! And what a wonderful way for children to hear music from around the world!