The KISS Box Set
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KISS soldiers, this is what you have been waiting for. A five-disc retrospective that assembles re-mastered greatest hits, live cuts, unreleased nuggets, rare gems, and demos, this is the motherload for fans of these hard rock legends. As the back of the box states, this is the definitive collection.
Now let's not squabble over whether KISS deserves such treatment or if they're better than Aerosmith , or if Gene Simmons is a creep or not. Let's just assume that if you are here then you are a rocker and can at least acknowledge KISS’ influence on generations of musicians and fans alike and admit that having lasted past the 30 year mark makes them worthy of such n endeavor. So assuming we're all on the same page with that, this leaves the primary question: For KISS-aholics that have been waiting their whole life for such a treasure, is this as good as it could've possibly been? Is this worth the wait?
You bet your sweet booty it is. I'm not going to go into all the details on this song or that song, what's on what disc, or drool about the unreleased stuff. As every KISS fan knows, there are countless compilation albums in the KISS catalog. Personally, I always dreamed about a box set being released. I think a box set by any artist provides a good retrospective about a certain bands career. Also with box sets you run into the "Why that song and not this song, it was my favorite." Fuhgeddaboutit.
I received this special edition set on my --th birthday in 2002, from a person who is very special to me. This box set comes in different versions, the cheapest(not pictured), a guitar case version(see above), and an ultra expensive super deluxe version which I think is priced at around $750. I received the guitar case version and was floored. First off, it is so damn cool looking, it is now the centerpiece of the living room. But what about the music you say.
It is KISS pure and simple. From the earliest formation days to the "farewell tour" days. It has all the classic stuff and then some. This is what would you have on a deserted island if you could only have 10 albums stuff. I know the box sets are expensive and the basic version of this one runs around $60, my advice to anyone who is a serious rock n roller, is to save up and make this your next purchase. Even if you have every KISS CD this one is a must.
Beck-Sea Change
Rolling Stone has done it again. I just saw on CNN that RS has reviewed Beck's new album and has given it the coveted 5 stars, that it rarely gives out. Before I go further , let me state that I like Beck a lot. His last album, Midnite Vultures, was
excellent. Yes I have the new Beck, and it's not bad, almost sounds like a country album. I have a question for the RS editors. How much frickin money were you paid
to write this glowing review? This disc rates a 3 stars. Maybe. My immediate reaction was to run to the bathroom and slit my wrists, it's that depressing (not unlike the Hip's new single, It's a Good Life). Kudos to Beck for laying bare his soul and letting us in on all the angst he feels in his life (Poor pitiful rock star). I applaud that, as I know it's hard to do, and even though it depressed me I do enjoy this album, and will probably listen to it a lot. 5 stars it is not, as there is at least 2 total clunkers on this album. I suggest RS get their head out of their butt and join the real world. For future reference guys, The Clash's "London Calling", now there is an album worthy of 5 stars.
The Donnas-Spend the Night What can I say about The Donnas? How about They are great! It just warms my heart that in this day of boy bands and 
over exposed wannabe divas, here is a group of girls that aren't afraid to rock and roll. I 've followed The Donnas since their self titled album, released back when they were in high school I believe. Nothing fancy here just the same straightforward rock n roll that we expect from The Donnas. My favorite tracks here are "Not the One", "On the Rocks" and "Take it Off". All tracks rock hard. The girls weren't trying to reinvent the wheel here, they just play that same satisfying rock that they love. I hope as these girls mature and release future albums, that they don't go the way of many artists by trying to go mainstream and sounding like everybody else. I like what I hear and it will be a worthy addition to my collection.
over exposed wannabe divas, here is a group of girls that aren't afraid to rock and roll. I 've followed The Donnas since their self titled album, released back when they were in high school I believe. Nothing fancy here just the same straightforward rock n roll that we expect from The Donnas. My favorite tracks here are "Not the One", "On the Rocks" and "Take it Off". All tracks rock hard. The girls weren't trying to reinvent the wheel here, they just play that same satisfying rock that they love. I hope as these girls mature and release future albums, that they don't go the way of many artists by trying to go mainstream and sounding like everybody else. I like what I hear and it will be a worthy addition to my collection. The Clash-London Calling
Released in 1979 by "the only band that matters". From the opening angry chords of London Calling to the last cut, an almost groove oriented,catchy riff song, Train in Vain, this album defines rock n roll. This album sounds as fresh today as it did 23 yrs. ago, and stands the test of time. Hailed by many as one of the all time best albums ever made and I highly agree with the critics on this one. The Clash came out of England with a vengeance in the late 70's. This album found the Clash experimenting with different song styles, including ska, reggae and thrashing punk rock. And it worked. Songs like Death or Glory still send a chill down my back. Lost in the Supermarket is almost soft pop, and hard to get out of your head. In these days of boy band proliferation and pop divas that make me gag, this album makes me long for a time when rock n rol was honest and the music meant something. Honestly you don't know what music is until you have heard this disc. It's my number 1 of all time.
December 23, 2002:
I wrote this review about 4 months ago and today I heard the news that frontman for the Clash, Joe Strummer, had died at the age of 50. I went into shock and I still am. Joey Ramone, Dee Dee Ramone , John Entwhistle, and now Joe. My heroes are falling. What a terrible loss for the music world. Doubly sad that Joe didn't live long enough to see the Clash inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. It was probably a sure Bet that The Clash would have performed a few songs at the induction ceremony and sadly we'll never get the opportunity to see this band perform live together again. Once again let me say that this album is the best this world has ever heard. Don't believe me then sit down and listen to it. Joe I'm going to miss you, and was looking forward to more stuff from the Mescaleros. You'll never know what a difference you made in my life. I spent a night having a drink on you and crying like a baby. Shopping will never be the same. Goodbye Joe and say hey to Joey.
Elton John-Songs from the West Coast
I've been a huge Elton fan since the early 70's (yes I'm ancient). So I'm probably a little biased but that doesn't matter. This album is truly excellent dudes. Of course I purchased this gem the day it came out and before the day was out, I had listened to it at least 10 times and didn't want to go to bed because I wanted to listen to it again. There are songs on this disc that give me goosebumps.
"This train don't stop" and "Ballad of the boy in the Red Shoes" are my personal favorites if I had to pick a couple. Elton has had tremendous output over his career, and some say his best work was in the 70's. This album negates that notion, actually sounding like it could have been released in the 70's. After hundreds of listens I yet to tire of this disc. It is timeless and destined to become a classic. Fifty years from now, it may well be classified as his best work. Way to go Elton!
