1968-1971 - Franco & L'ok Jazz

Advantages: As with the others I've reviewed, this record is original, thought provoking, honest, and introspective - with plenty of varied musical styles to keep the listener hooked.
Disadvantages: There are a couple of tracks that seem a bit "out of place" though they are still more than worth listening to.

...a smile to my face, because it is evident that Ani DiFranco was smiling while she performed and recorded this track – the way it ought to be, in my not so humble opinion. “Napoleon” Oh dear sweet Lord, if you only hear ONE Ani song that revolves around politics regarding the music industry, THIS IS IT! Ani brings a very serious topic – selling out to the big labels and forgetting friends whilst doing it – to the table. She has an excellent guitar rhythm that is a bit of folk, alternative rock, and slight jazz all mixed into one catchy number. “They told you your music would reach millions That the choice was up to you You told me they always pay for lunch That they believe in what you do And I wonder if you miss your old friends Now that you’ve proven what you’re worth Yeah I... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Powerful, honest, dedicated effort by an up-and-coming musician.
Disadvantages: Some may not like the bold approaches to controversial topics.

...In 1990, New York-based folk musician Ani DiFranco launched Righteous Babe Records, an independent record label designed to share "unorthodox" music with a culture engrossed in MTV and VH1 pop and rap trends. Along with this successful label, Ani also released her self-titled debut album - an outstanding mix of folk rock and slight country with faint influences of jazz, blues, and a tiny shred of funk here and there to keep things interesting. DiFranco grabs your ear from the first track: "Both Hands," a very simple acoustic guitar piece that cuts right to the heart of the matter. In this song, Ani's slightly-lilting, raw-edged voice pleads with her lover to touch her with both hands. "I am writing graffiti on your body / I am drawing the story of how hard we tried..." It's an emotional, tense ballad that keeps listeners glued... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Some really good tracks
Disadvantages: Some are "so-so"

...Vintage Jazz Volume 4 is another of my all-time favourite jazz CDs, as it does exactly what it sys on the label, it IE.. it contain some really fine examples of some of the best classic jazz. Coleman Hawkins as his All Star Jam Band, featuring every example of the best jazz instruments, guitar, drums, clarinet, all performing together as one on Honeysuckle Rose. And please note the use of the word "jam" in the name of the band. As they say, there really is nothing new under the sun! The next track is also by Coleman Hawkins and His All Star Jam Band, but is a totally different style of jazz as they give a rip-roaring, jumping version of Sweet Georgia Brown. Crazy Rhythm is the next track an is also from Coleman Hawkins and His All Star Jam Band. Crazy Rhythm? Well, no all that crazy, and it is another example of the multi... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful