Doom And Gloom (Early Songs Of Angst And Disaster) - Various Artists

Advantages: Some great, memorable songs from the 1970's
Disadvantages: A lot of rubbish along the way

...', provides a much gentler, slower paced tone to the album, perhaps even as a reminder that just because some of the music used in the series was a celebration of the 'wonderful' life of the 70's, that some of it was unfortunately doom and gloom with power cuts, institutionalised racism and sexism and other unfortunate events. 'Snow Flower' however, was a very unexpected but good addition to the album as it included Indian instruments and sounds that were a major priority in the episode it was linked to. Series 2, Episode 6 concentrated on racism and the implication of these misconceptions so the track by Ananda Shankar added a very authentic vibe away from the glam rock that tied in well with the episode. There were some very good songs from the era included but ones that I think were added to sell the CD, purely for the fact that they were... Read review

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Advantages: Well compiled collection
Disadvantages: Not all best tracks included

...Stax is one of the most famous Blues and Soul record labels, which was responsible for recording some of the best known artist of that genre. It was formed in Memphis in 1957 by Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton as Satellite records but changed its name to Stax (a play on the owners surnames STewart and Axton). It will always be associated with the development of Southern Soul, Chicago Blues and early funk as well as recording some of the first ethnically mixed bands, something very rare in that period. The label finally went bankrupt in 1976 but Fantasy Records eventually bought it primarily for its superb back catalogue and since 2004 they have been re-issuing some of the more popular recording s as well as some compilations. ‘The Stax Story’ is a massive four cd compilation of the best of the output from the famous Stax record label... Read review

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Advantages: Loads of Hits from the Golden Era of Rock N Roll
Disadvantages: None

...The early fifties marked the end of the austere post-war period, and the young people of the time were on the lookout for fun, excitement and sheer enjoyment. They were alive, full of energy and vigour. And so was the music they sang and danced to. It was called Rock and Roll.The years between 1954-1963 are generally regarded as the Golden Era of Rock and Roll.This 2-CD album features some of the hits of that period, and some of the best Rock and Roll artists…Ever! The album opens with Elvis and “Jailhouse Rock.”The young white singer from Tupelo, Mississippi, whose style was a mixture of Blues, Country and Gospel, had yet to reach the height of his career.”Jailhouse Rock” is taken from the film of the same name, in which Elvis played the role of convict Vince Everett… “…Everybody... Read review

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