The DEFinition [Enhanced]

Track Listings

1. Headsprung

2. Rub My Back

3. I'm About to Get Her - R. Kelly, LL Cool J

4. Move Somethin'

5. Hush - Aurelius, LL Cool J

6. Every Sip

7. Shake It Baby

8. Can't Explain It

9. Feel the Beat

10. Apple Cobbler

11. 1 in the Morning

The DEFinition,LL Cool J,Def Jam,East Coast Rap,Hardcore Rap,Pop,Rap & Hip-Hop

Average customer rating:

Def Jam's Cash In On DMX (Rating: 8 out of 10- -4.0 stars)
Good starting point for new DMX listeners
DMX - The Definition of X: Pick of The Litter
For DMX fans
Where is "Get It On The Floor" from Grand Champ?

The Definition of X: Pick of The Litter

Manufacturer: Def Jam
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000Q364MO
Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

Prayer II
Ruff Ryders' Anthem
Get At Me Dog feat. Sheek of The Lox
Stop Being Greedy
How's It Going Down
What These B*tches Want feat. Sisqo
Blackout feat. JAY-Z & The Lox
What's My Name?
Where The Hood At
Party Up (Up In Here)
X Gon' Give It To Ya
It's All Good
Who We Be
The Rain
Here We Go Again
No Love For Me feat. Swizz Beatz and Drag On
We Right Here
One More Road To Cross
Slippin'
Prayer 1

Customer Reviews:

Def Jam's Cash In On DMX (Rating: 8 out of 10- -4.0 stars).......2007-06-28

It's no suprise that Def Jam would drop a greatest hits album for DMX since he left the record label and dropped Year of the Dog...Again on Columbia back in late '06. DMX has been in the rap game since the early 90's finally getting noticed in '98 with the song "Ruff Ryders Anthem". Collaborating with artists like Jay-Z, Ja Rule (those were the good ol' days of Def Jam) he has dropped rememerable verses. He has dropped some dope albums like It's Dark and Hell Is Hot & Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood back in '98.

The Definiton of X: Pick Up The Litter is a good overview of DMX between 1998-2003. What I like about these albums is that most of the hit singles are on here (isn't that what a greatest hits is all about). Classic songs like "Get At Me Dog", "Party Up (Up In Here)", "Blackout", and "Slippin'" are on here, and are great to hear. I also enjoy "Who We Be" from The Great Depression album as wel, as each song brings back memories of bumping most of these songs throughout middle and high school.

It's no suprise that, like everybody else, has their own beef with what songs should and should not be on here. I personally believe some of the remixes are on here like "Ruff Ryders Anthem (remix)" and "Get At Me Dog (remix)", not to mention a few B-sides as well.

Overall, this is a great place to start listening to DMX, especially if you missed him in his earlier years. If you're like me, and own every album, picking this up would be pointless (a friend let me borrow this one). What I fear is that later on down the road, this will be the only entry point to DMX, as all of his albums on Def Jam will be out of print. But I hope that doesn't happen anytime soon. But even fans of X will be happy with this album. Peace.

Good starting point for new DMX listeners.......2007-06-21

Like a lot of people my age, DMX is an artist I've grown up listening to, and while he's never been my favorite rapper, I've always thoroughly enjoyed his music, be it pump-up jams, depressed narratives, or collabos with the Ruff Ryders. "The Definition of X: Pick of the Litter" is a poorly labeled greatest hits compilation of his five Def Jam albums. DMX left Def Jam in 2005, so his most recent album, 2006's Year of the Dog...Again is not represented on this disc. The bulk of the album's tracklist is taken from his first two albums, It's Dark and Hell Is Hot and Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood, both released in 1998. These albums are widely considered classic material and contain a lot of his darker, angrier work. There are six songs from 1999's And Then There Was X, his most commercially successful album, containing most of his most popular hits. 2001's The Great Depression and 2003's Grand Champ both contribute two tracks, which is suitable because while both solid albums, they contained less great material than his first three. Like with any greatest hits compilation, everyone's always going to have a little beef with the tracklist, personally I would have liked to see some tracks from the Ruff Ryders albums and some more soundtrack cuts, and a few notable hits are missing such as "I Miss You" and "Get It on the Floor." If you've had access to a radio or cable TV over the last eight years, chances are you know most, if not all, of these songs. But overall, this is a very potent collection of some great music.

DMX is a passionate and totally engaging rapper, and he can range from sullen and depressed to inspired and pumping. His best known work would be his club hits such as "Party Up (Up in Here)" and "Ruff Ryders Anthem." These upbeat bangers, of which there are many on this collection, are all wonderfully produced and extremely entertaining. And while there's less in the tracklist, you also get a taste of his sullen and spiritual side with songs like "The Rain" and the "Prayer" interludes. The tracklist is pretty well rounded and well selected.

If any DMX fans are confused by this recent release, don't be fooled by the misleading title and art, because this is a greatest hits collection. Those fans who own his Def Jam albums need not purchase this, because they will have all those songs already. But if you're just getting into DMX or never got around to buying one of his albums, this would certainly be a worthwhile purchase. I know I've spent countless hours listening to the songs on this tracklist over the years, and a few others probably will now too thanks to this collection.

DMX - The Definition of X: Pick of The Litter.......2007-06-20

DMX (A.K.A. Earl Simmons) delivers a greatest hits album with "The Definition of X: Pick of The Litter" which features material from his first five album's, no joints from his 2006 release "Year of the Dog... Again" are included on this release.

Tracklisting

1 Prayer III (...And Then There Was X)
2 Ruff Ryders' Anthem (It's Dark and Hell is Hot)
3 Get At Me Dog (It's Dark and Hell is Hot)
4 Stop Being Greedy (It's Dark and Hell is Hot)
5 How's it Going Down (It's Dark and Hell is Hot)
6 What These B*tches Want (...And Then There Was X)
7 Blackout (Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood)
8 What's My Name? (...And Then There Was X)
9 Where the Hood At (Grand Champ)
10 Party Up (Up in Here) (...And Then There Was X)
11 X Gon' Give it to Ya (Cradle 2 The Grave Soundtrack)
12 It's All Good (Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood)
13 Who We Be (The Great Depression)
14 The Rain (Grand Champ)
15 Here We Go Again (...And Then There Was X)
16 No Love 4 Me (Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood)
17 We Right Here (The Great Depression)
18 One More Road to Cross (...And Then There Was X)
19 Slippin' (Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood)
20 Prayer (Skit) (It's Dark and Hell is Hot)

Being a DMX fan I own all six of his album's, so none of this material is new to me. I think every fan will have preferred track's that they would like to see make (or be cut off) this release and have their own opinion on how the track listing should of been arranged. I could talk extensively about mine, but won't. My favourite DMX track is "Slippin'", I think "The Rain" is one of the DMX track's which has been slept on some so I was glad to see it included on this release. DMX has done some great soundtrack track's over the years - Belly, Cradle 2 The Grave, Exit Wounds, he has also made some memorable guest appearances. End of the day "The Definition of X: Pick of The Litter" may be a good starting point for newcomers, older fan's can be on the lookout for his seventh solo album currently titled "Soul of a Man" and for his appearance on the Belly sequel "Beast".

For DMX fans.......2007-06-18

This album really showcases DMX best work throughout the years. But for the years he was in DEF JAM. From (Dark And Hell Is Hot) to (Grand Champ) basically from 1998 to 2003. Doesn't have any of the other hits from recent years after DEF JAM like ( Get It On The Floor & We In Here). But I'm not dissapointed at all with this purchase. I'm a big DMX/Ruff Ryder fan since he first came out in 1997/98. It's nice to have DMX hits all in 1 CD, plus if buy the LIMITED DELUXE EDITION you get a free DVD with DMX videos. How can you go wrong with that. I don't regret at all purchasing this album from 1 of my favorite HIP HOP artists of all time. Well worth my money. So all you Ruff Ryder fans should pick this up no doubt.

Where is "Get It On The Floor" from Grand Champ?.......2007-06-16

The sole reason why I didn't purchase this album is because "Get It On The Floor" was not included. I was at Best Buy with Pick of the Litter in my hand when I slowly came to this awful realization as I scanned the track list on the back--I reluctantly put it back on the shelf. DMX is one of the best-selling rappers of all time, born with a golden, milllion-dollar voice other artists would kill for. Pick of the Litter should've been one of the best albums in the history of hip hop; instead, it's like purchasing Jay-Z's greatest hits without "99 Problems," Tupac's without "California Love," or Nas's without "Made You Look."

Average customer rating:

The Definition of an Ese
Down AKA Kilo
Manufacturer: Silent Giant
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music

Latin Rap | Latin Music | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

Bass | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000NJWSYO
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

Definition of an Ese - Diamonique, Down aka Kilo, , Kilo
I'm Coming Home to You - Nate Dogg, Down aka Kilo, , Kilo
Be About It - Nikki Diaz, Down aka Kilo, , Kilo
Don't Be Jealous - Nikki Diaz, Down aka Kilo, , Fingazz, Kilo
Lean Like a Cholo - Down aka Kilo, , Kilo
G's Need Love Too - Nikki Diaz, Down aka Kilo, , Kilo
Got to Hustle - Butch Cassidy, Down aka Kilo, , Flakiss, Kilo
G Way - Down aka Kilo, , Kilo, Snoop Dogg
Everlasting Nights - Dey, Down aka Kilo, , Tanya Gomez, Kilo
You Ain't Gettin' Nothing - Down aka Kilo, , Fingazz, Kilo
Just Like You - B Real, , Down aka Kilo, , Kilo

Tracks:

Definition of an Ese [DVD] - Down aka Kilo, , Kilo

Average customer rating:

Deep Blues for the 21st Century
always fresh
at least it's different
a nice try...BUT

Definition of a Circle
Otis Taylor
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music

General | Blues | Styles | Music

Electric Blues Guitar | Blues | Styles | Music

Acoustic Blues | Blues | Styles | Music

Modern Blues | Blues | Styles | Music

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West

ASIN: B000MGVCLI
Release Date: 2007-02-27

Tracks:

Little Betty
Black's Mandolin Boogie
Looking Over Your Fence
They Wore Blue
Few Feet Away
Something In Your Back Pocket
My Name Is General Jackson
Love And Hesitation
Maharaja Daughter
Long Long Life
Mexican Cowboy
Lifetime Of Freedom

Amazon.com

Crackling with hypnotic energy, Otis Taylor's eighth album infuses his cutting-edge blues with a dose of rock'n'roll exuberance. The blasting opener "Little Betty" gets some rocket fuel from blues-rock legend Gary Moore's marvelously expressive, raw guest guitar as well as from drummer John Kelly, whose propulsion ignites several of these dozen tunes. Ultimately, though, Taylor's one-chord magic comes from his knack for repeating catchy riffs until they become a seductive blur--a hip-shaking platform for his colorful explorations of love, war, joy, deprivation, and racial struggle. He's also got a way with textures, spinning dirty guitar, prickly electric mandolin, his daughter Cassie's haunting alto singing, and his own appealingly hoarse baritone into mesmeric arrangements for tunes like the Hurricane Katrina contemplation "They Wore Blue" that owe as much to Pink Floyd as to Muddy Waters. Taylor also pushes the envelope hard with "Long Long Life," which blends jazz star Hiromi Uchara's manic piano improvisations with Ron Miles's free-form cornet as Taylor intones a curse on a disdainful lover. It's a brilliant collision of styles and yet another fiery testimonial to Taylor's unique artistic vision. --Ted Drozdowski

Customer Reviews:

Deep Blues for the 21st Century.......2007-07-16

Otis Taylor, on this recording in particular, seems to combine vast influences that come from around the globe and across time. All of this is funneled through his soul and into his music.

Now what does that mean? Otis does not follow convention. Consider the instruments used here, many from the past: electric cello; cornet; mandolin; lap steel and banjo - not your typical blues band!

Do you like more modern blues and rock, that's mixed in here too and is my favorite part of the new CD. European rock and blues guitar master Gary Moore (former Thin Lizzy member and now bluesman supreme, though not well known in the states) on overdriven electric guitar.

No one that I listen to except for Otis Taylor mixes these elements together, then Otis adds his deeply felt lyrics and vocals (with background by daughter Cassie and "Operatic Vocals" by others - see, there's another examples of far ranging influences).

Otis Taylor Band - part Jam Band, part Trance, part history lesson, part World Music, all BLUES. This compelling music gets better with each listen. Thanks to XM radio, I heard a few cuts repeated before buying the CD. Love it.

always fresh.......2007-05-24

Otis' albums are all defferent. They all sound like Otis, but each new one has a special feel. Defintion of a Circle is no exception, I just can't wait to hear what he does next.

at least it's different.......2007-04-11

I am a big fan of blues but not so much the acoustic type. I've liked Otis Taylor's music but not enough to buy an entire disc. That said, after hearing "Definition Of A Circle", I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. His songs are personal and from the heart. The band is great, and the trumpet is a nice touch on some songs. This is a different type of blues and it really takes a few listens to digest and understand where Taylor is coming from. He is making music on his own terms, not for mass consumption. If you are looking for something different from the "she done me wrong" blues, this is it.

a nice try...BUT.......2007-03-29

sometimes 'tries' are best left in the studio....I found it, however 'daring', repetitive and droning...

Average customer rating:

THE Punk Ska Album of the 90's
RIP Suicide Machines
to me, all suicide machines albums are equal
TSM's first and best.
Remarkable sound - Crosses generations

Destruction by Definition
The Suicide Machines
Manufacturer: Hollywood Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Punk Revival | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Ska Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000000OFD
Release Date: 1996-05-21

Tracks:

New Girl
S.O.S.
Break The Glass
No Face
Hey
Our Time
Too Much
Islands
The Real You
Face Values
Punk Out
Vans Song
Insecurities
Inside/Outside
Zero
So Long

Amazon.com

Though the Suicide Machines are far more punk (and pop) than ska, they nonetheless manage to fit in some infectious ska rhythms. They're a Detroit quartet with piercings in all the right places (pretty much all over their faces), big baggy clothes, and a knack for writing fun-filled, power-packed ditties. They're also a hell of a lot of fun. At a Seattle gig (at Eckstein Middle School, of all places), they invited about half the crowd to join them on stage and performed the entire gig surrounded by (mostly) teenage boys skanking up a storm. Truly a spectacle to behold. Their debut record on the Hollywood label has much of that same wackiness. The songs are totally adrenalized, manic spasms of poppy punk, jazzed up with some deliriously danceable ska. The best line of the entire album comes in the fashion-tip-laden "The Vans Song", which advises, "Worship Jeff Spicoli, not Chris Cornell." Get the picture? --Adem Tepedelen

Customer Reviews:

THE Punk Ska Album of the 90's.......2007-01-10

I remember first listening to this album just as the 3rd wave ska craze came about in the mid 90's. Ten years later I caught them play for the last time in Cleveland, they still had that "energy". Countless albums, music genres, later it still remains one of my favorite records. Heres why: its got everything definitive of the ska/punk albums with none of the cheesy baggage. Good thumping basslines throughout which you can actually hear on without a good set of subs, tight horns, keyboards, furious drumming, and of course the upbeat ska guitar on most of the tracks.
Somewhat similar to: Operation Ivy, Rancid, might mighty bosstones. You wont go wrong here.

RIP Suicide Machines.......2006-08-24

I am kicking myself for just now getting into this album. It has honestly been around me since it first came out, but I am just now realizing the brilliance within. I recently heard the title track off of their latest album, war profiteering..., and was amazed. It was it this time I decided to revisit the back catalog. Well in the process of a couple weeks I have discovered this album to be so much more than I ever imagined. As a previous reviewer stated they have such a great and seemless mix of straight ahead punk blended with ska, and the catchy choruses and great sing alongs that could have come from a classic Misfits album. It's almost like the greatest mix tape of punk ever made. If you enjoy anything from ska, to hardcore, to classic punk you have to give this late, great band your hard earned cash. Even if it takes awhile to absorb you will one day get it. I know I will be buying anything I can get my hands on, these guys will be remembered as legends.

to me, all suicide machines albums are equal.......2006-08-08

well i see people saying this is their best all the time, but to me, i just cannot decide. they all have superb and amazing moments and others that just blend together. i havent listened to a single suicide machines album that i could listen to all the way through.(i have all except self titled) i mean yes, they are a great band and id definately say that they are an essential to any punk revival fan, but the thing is, is that they never had a cd that was 100% masterpiece..to me at least.

the songs break the glass, SOS, our time, hey, and no face all warrant an easy 4 star "great" rating! the rest, just couldnt grow on me...just yet at least...and ive had this for about a year and half now.

actually, this band really surprised me and put me in awe since i picked this album up on a closing clearance sale in a local cd store!

TSM's first and best........2006-06-16

Let me begin by saying that The Suicide Machines were my favorite band, even though they broke up not too long ago. This, however, is not the album that turned me on to these guys. But it sure is one hell of a CD. Out of its 16 songs, I enjoy all of them thoroughly, because they are all different. Of course, this CD may just all be about teenagers having fun early in their career, but The Suicide Machines make great music out of it, not to mention the organ thrown in. I often try to highlight my favorites of the disc at hand, but this is another one of those cases where it would just be too difficult, every track is killer! Regardless of its genre, this is just music at its finest. So go out and get it, pop it in your stereo, and please your ears with the fun party of an album that it is. Thank you for your time.

Remarkable sound - Crosses generations.......2006-02-08

I'm not as young as I used to be - Duh. But this CD came to me through a younger colleague who was into the punk scene. Most of the new punk music doesn't do anything for me. Most of it is too angry to be believable. But this CD blew me away.

Very creative sound. Changes tempo and styles with raw energy yet a subtle grace.

Some say the Mighty Mighty Bosstones are similar, but they can't compare to TSM.

Average customer rating:

GREAT!
Good listening to the ear!
DEFINITION OF A GREAT BAND
Them boys good
Serious musicianship; serious rythm & blues

Definition of a Band
Mint Condition
Manufacturer: Fontana a&M
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

New Jack | R&B | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0000012T3
Release Date: 1996-09-24

Tracks:

Definition Of A Band (Intro)
Change Your Mind
You Don't Have To Hurt No More
Gettin' It On
What Kind Of Man Would I Be
Let Me Be The One
Definition Of A Band (Swing Version)
Ain't Hookin' Me Up Enough
Funky Weekend
I Want It Again
On & On
The Never That You'll Never Know
Asher In Rio - Interlude
Raise Up
On & On (Reprise)
Sometimes
Missing
If It Wasn't For Your Love (Dedication)

Customer Reviews:

GREAT!.......2007-03-14

I don't know if I've EVER had a Mint Condition project disappoint. They are one talented bunch of brothas and this one was no exception. "Ain't Hooking Me Up Enough," has a killer bass line to me. The little swing in that song will almost make you forget the lyrics and realize that the guy is just begging. In fact, I could do with the instrumental. I should not start listing songs though, because they are pretty much all the bomb!

Good listening to the ear!.......2006-07-10

Mint Condition is definitely a group of talented musicians. I
enjoy all of the many facets that they offer in the CD "Definition of a Band." I have been a faithful fan for many
years my favorite cut on the CD is "You don't have to hurt no more". Check it out.

DEFINITION OF A GREAT BAND.......2006-05-11

Mint Condition has been putting out nothing but beautiful music since their 1991 debut "Meant To Be Mint" which brought us the ballads "Pretty Brown Eyes", "Single To Mingle", and "Forever In Your Eyes". Their sophomore effort, "From The Mint Factory" was even better, with a heavy jazz/classic r&b influence that was evident in almost every track.

The group's third CD, "Definition Of A Band" carries on the tradition of soothing soul music that these brothers bring to us. Not only is the music slow and sweet, but the vocals (both lead and backup) blend in beautifully to create one of my favorite CDs.

If you're a Mint Condition fan, you know that they are truly a band. All the drums/keyboards/guitars are live and real, taking them out of the synthesized world of the majority of today's r&b. "Definition Of A Band" really gives us a look at what they're capable of. After all, how can you go wrong when you're executively produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis?

There are plenty of ballads on this CD for those in love. "You Don't Have To Hurt No More" is about a man comforting his new love and reassuring her that her past problems are just that... in the past. "What Kind Of Man Would I Be" is about resisting infidelity, no matter how many emotions are mixed up in the situation. "Let Me Be The One" shows us just how unconditional one's love can be, with Stokely (Mint Condition's lead singer) asking his former love if he can still be her shoulder to cry on. "On & On" is a marriage proposal in ballad form (we've seen a lot of these recently with Jagged Edge's "Let's Get Married" and Case's "Happily Ever After"), and it's done beautifully.

One of the more interesting tracks on the CD is "Sometimes", where Stokely describes the frustration of having his emotions (read: sex drive) toyed with by the object of his affection. It's a little different than your typical MC track, with a heavy rock & roll influence, but still very enjoyable to listen to. "Missing" is a song dedicated to all the missing children in the world, and although the song's beat is a little faster than you'd expect for the subject, the song definitely gets its point across.

If you've liked any of Mint Condition's previous stuff, I'd absolutely recommend this CD. If you're new to MC, go pick up "From The Mint Factory" first and then make a decision as to if you'd like to delve into this part of the genre. Since this CD, Mint Condition has also released "The Collection", a "greatest hits" compilation, "Life's Aquarium", there re-entry
CD "Livin' The Luxury The Brown" another stunningly well done album and the Live CD/DVD "Mint Condition: Live From The 9:30 Club".

Them boys good.......2004-12-02

Lead singer Stokley Williams steals the show with his surging, passionate vocals on the quiet storm tracks You Don't Have To Hurt No More,What Kind Of Man Would I Be, On & On and Let Me Be The One. Don't get it twisted though Stokley's boys are all good muscians in their own right with their sharp skills on drums,keyboards and pianos.

Serious musicianship; serious rythm & blues.......2004-03-10

We have long been in an age where it is no longer an obligation to play an instrumenet or know anyone that does when it comes to R&B. Outside of Alicia Keys and The Roots, those days are sort of gone. That's why this record is so killer! Mint Condition is a band of multi-faceted group who are great songwriters and amongst the smokin'ist musicians you've heard!

This CD is a gold-mine of original songs - some standards like "What Kind of Man Would I Be" and some scorchin' funk cuts like "Let Me Be The One" (my absolute favorite cut with an old school feel). Over this 19 song disc (a few tracks are jazzy interludes of about a minute each) you, the listener, will have gotten the feeling that you've approached R&B from every possible angle - the slow jam, the mid-tempo pop, the old school funk, and the more slick pop-R&B (there's even a song - "Sometimes" - that almost sounds a bit metal).

Among the things I should say about this disk is that Stokely (the lead singer, drummer, and misc. instrumentalist) and Kerry Lewis (keyboard player and principle songwriter) are absolutely smoking musicians - absolutely smoking. And that is another things we get on the disc - improvisation. There are quite a few good solos (for quite a few instruments) to bring in a more jazzy feel. Needless to say, it is well done indeed.

Tracks:

What Will Become of the Morning
Lacewing
Cynthia Gerome
April Grove
Father's Getting Old
30 Poplar
Baby, Let Me Show You Where I Live
Fitzpatrick Swanson
Lake Hope
Piece of Sun
Summer in Your Savage Eyes
Dr Root's Garden
Dues Are Hard [#][*]
Gimme Your Love [#][*]
Sink in Deeper [#][*]
Window Shopping [#][*]
Wheel I Can Ride [#][*]
Cold and Windy City [#][*]
Cynthia Gerome [#][*]
Dr Root's Garden [#][*]

Album Description

Remastered and includes bonus tracks. Rev Ola. 2005.

Customer Reviews:

This was bad 40 years ago. How do you think it will sound now?.......2007-07-05

I picked this up on vinyl when it was originally released back in '67 or '68. And, trust me, I liked most of the psych pop rock stuff around at that time.

But this one was absolutely excruciating -- self-absorbed, unmusical, depressive, cliched. Truly, truly awful. Embarrassing, really.

I still remember some of the songs -- the Lacewing one in particular -- even though I'm sure I only listened to it once or twice.

What's even more depressing is that the most horrible of the old psychedelic era drivel -- I'm talking Ultimate Spinach-level dreck -- has resurfaced here, decades later, only to attract more poor suckers.

So let me do you a favor. As an alternative, I'd suggest you pick anything by the band Love (especially 'Forever Changes'), or 'The Great American Eagle Tragedy' by Earth Opera, or the recently released 'Listen My Friends!' retrospective by Moby Grape, or maybe either of the self-titled masterpieces, Quicksilver Messenger Service or H.P. Lovecraft.

There's so much wonderful stuff from this era that's available again. Don't waste your time or money on this one.

Great musical discovery for those who are looking to trace the psychedelic history of rock.......2007-06-26

I first heard this CD as a vinyl record. A friend of mine knowing that I liked Frank Zappa thought I might dig it. He was right. Turns out the main composer of these songs actually was a voice heard on Zappa's Lumpy Gravy work. While there are bits of arrangements that sound like FZ, the music really has a sound of it's own. The songs are strong and their harmonic and rhythmic sense are sophisticated. The lyrics are interesting, sometimes touching on points of view from an insect's perspective. Very inventive. Though the recording is so- so, the re-mastering is a dramatic improvement over the actual vinyl. It's too bad this work did not get the press it deserved back in 1968. It would have influenced a lot of musicians. As it stands I would not be surprised if Steely Dan had heard of this disc because there are some stylistic elements here that seem to appear on Becker and Fagen's Early Years compilation. But that is just speculation. The liner notes state that this was one of Zappa's favorite pop records. In fact, the beautiful song Cynthia Gerome has a chord progression that is very reminding of FZ's rare acoustic piece called Sleep Dirt. Was he influenced by it? Again it's speculation but both tunes can be played along side each other without much dissonance. Yes, Chrysalis is locked in a psychedelic time frame but there is something deviant about the whole affair. And that's a good thing. Great musical discovery for those who are looking to trace the psychedelic history of rock.

On a side note : the female singer reminds me of Nellie McKay. Nellie should cover the song April Grove.

A must-have CD.......2006-02-25

The reissue of this CD has been long overdue. This dates to a time when MGM was putting some effort into signing every psychedelic, love-in freak-fest they could lay a one-album contract on. While a lot of these groups ended up languishing in well-deserved obscurity, some (eventually) became recognized as possessing unique talent. (Leading collectors to pump up the prices of their original vinyl releases of course.)

I can't add much to what other reviewers have said about Spider Barbour's peculiar form of genius. Let's just say that the mixture of pretty and sometimes complex love ditties here leave us with a feeling of something insane lying just beneath the surface, as if all the insect references really metaphorically signify - what??? It's kind of imponderable. And when, by the end, the insanity finally does surface, it leads us immediately to listen closer to the "safe" and "pretty" love songs to seek hidden meanings.

The inclusion of acetate demos here as bonus tracks gives an even better insight into how the work got partially "productized" by MGM - especially "Dr. Root's Garden," which started out sounding a bit like a halloween cassette tape made by me and my kid brother (complete with wacky voices and echo effects, and someone loudly plucking one guitar string from time to time for no particular reason) to a more "polished product" which could be safely released to the masses. (Shades of Zappa's famous comment - and I paraphrase from memory - "With work you guys could be as popular as the Turtles.")

People expecting another Zappa or Captain Beefheart-like project here will be disappointed by this release - it is not nearly that nuts. Nor is this the Chocolate Watchband or another "pure garage" project - it is more polished than that (except perhaps in the acetates). Those drawn in by the coroporate packaging to expect something like a cross between Pentangle and Rare Bird will also be surprised. This is a more unique product, which bears repeated listenings for those who can acquire the taste for it.

Not without its flaws, but a must-have addition for anyone who can appreciate some of the unique MGM 1968-69 products, or of folk-oriented psychedelia in general.

superb, delicate slice of psychedelia with a few UK psych tinges.......2006-01-12

This is a neglected classic of gentle, delicate psychedelia, with some definite touches of the whimsical , pastoral sound of 60s British psychedelia and folk as explained in the liner notes' references to Donovan and the Beatles, as well as hints of very early pink floyd, but it also incorporates some distinctively American zappa-esque and at other times roots-jazz/ bluegrass/honky-tonk elements. Overall the feel is ambitious and wide-ranging, and the music is beautifully played and worked.

Another classic 60's group.......2005-09-13

I think the other reviewers have got this CD and the group down to a tee with their reviews, and I couldn't agree with them more. This is a very good and underated band from their era, and the music is excellent. Nancy Nain has a fine voice, sings on most of the tracks, and it's really nice to hear those extra bonus tracks because the original album was fairly short. I remember seeing this album many times when it first came out, possibly a friend of mine had it, and I know I've heard some of the songs before, but it's been so many years. When I first put this on and listened to it, it was a delightful surprise. This is a classic 60's group, and they had a sound with a combination of many different styles. I am glad I got this CD, and anyone that likes great classic 60's sounding groups should hear this group, because they were quite good, and Nancy Nain was a very good singer. I really like this band and the CD very much, buy it, you won't be disappointed. Glenn Cypress, CA USA

Average customer rating:

Not too bad
Sweet!
HIGHER DEFINITION - CROSS MOVEMENT
I want more!
They can't go wrong

Higher Definition
Cross Movement
Manufacturer: Cross Movement
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Christian Rap | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Southern Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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Flame
The Thesis
Moment of Truth
The Incredible Walk
The Faith

ASIN: B00064LOLE
Release Date: 2004-10-26

Tracks:

Civilian Affairs
Redefined
It's Time
Hey Y'all
Lord You Are
Hip-Hop-cracy
Card Shark
Questions
On In Here
Jerseys & Fitteds
Big Words
Epiphany
Check For Us
We
My Life Cypha

Customer Reviews:

Not too bad.......2007-07-19

This was one of the first christian rap cd's I've heard and actually liked. These Cross Movement dudes actually know how to rap, which isn't something I can say for a lot of the other christian rappers (God bless em). This is a decent album but I enjoyed both of Lecrae's cd's a lot more.

I will say that Phanatik is one of the sickest rappers out, christian or not. I can't wait to get his album. #7 on this album is straight fire!!!

Sweet!.......2007-05-08

I've heard demos off the cd and it is totally awesome.CM is the best rap group i've heard in a while.They have some amazing beats,sickning words and of course they bring the WORD OF GOD!So listen to a fifteen year old and buy this cd!

HIGHER DEFINITION - CROSS MOVEMENT.......2007-01-19

THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST CONSISTENT RELEASES. GREAT VARIETY OF ARTISTS AND FEATURED ARTISTS. THIS IS HOLY HIP HOP AT ITS BEST. PHILADELPHIA IS THE CITY WHERE THEY COME FROM.

I want more!.......2006-11-10

I'm a young "old" person, who uncharactistically likes hip-hop and rap. So I thought I would give this a listen since I was planning on seeing them at Autumn Blaze. I love this CD! I love this band! I'm asking Santa for more CD's by this band. I want more!

They can't go wrong.......2006-10-18

This is another complete and brilliant album from the pioneers of hip hop. They arent afraid of contaversy if truth is at stake. An earlier review was bothered by their references to the Pentacostal, Charasmatic denominations in regaurds to prosperity messages. They arent causing seperation in the faith, their combating dangers to the true gospel that knows nothing of prosperity teaching. This doesnt apply to all Pentacostal, Charismatics, just the ones caught in this get rich gospel deception. John 17 doesnt rebutt anything these guys put down, it confirms what they've done. Their music is for the whole church of all denominations, as long as the true church is being true. These guys tell it like the Bible does, but in a way all Hip Hop Heads can catch the message and relate. CM, keep it up boys.

The Definition of X: Pick of The Litter [Deluxe Limited Edition CD+DVD]

Average customer rating:

THE DEFINITION OF X

The Definition of X: Pick of The Litter [Deluxe Limited Edition CD+DVD]

Manufacturer: Def Jam
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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Special Occasion
Stomp the Yard (Widescreen Edition)
Timbaland Presents Shock Value
Dreamgirls (Two-Disc Showstopper Edition)

ASIN: B000Q364QK
Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

Prayer II
Ruff Ryders' Anthem
Get At Me Dog feat. Sheek of The Lox
Stop Being Greedy
How's It Going Down
What These B*tches Want feat. Sisqo
Blackout feat. JAY-Z & The Lox
What's My Name?
Where The Hood At
Party Up (Up In Here)
X Gon' Give It To Ya
It's All Good
Who We Be
The Rain
Here We Go Again
No Love For Me feat. Swizz Beatz and Drag On
We Right Here
One More Road To Cross
Slippin'
Prayer 1

Tracks:

Who We Be [Video]
Where The Hood At [Video]
Stop Being Greedy [Video]
Get At Me Dog [Video]
Ruff Ryders Anthem [Video]
Slippin' [Video]
What These B*tches Want [Video]
Party Up (Up In Here) [Video]

Customer Reviews:

THE DEFINITION OF X.......2007-06-12

I MEAN THE NAME SPEAKS FOR ITSELF... ITS DMX AT HIS BEST WITH NUMBER 1 HITS FROM ALL HIS ALBUMS... IF U R A BIG DMX FAN LIKE I KNOW I AM.. THIS CD IS A MUST.. IY HAS THE SONG RUFF RYDERS ANTHEM TO WHERE THE HOOD...GREAT CD!!!!

Average customer rating:

The Definition of an Ese
Down AKA Kilo
Manufacturer: Silent Giant
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music

Latin Rap | Latin Music | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

Bass | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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Timbaland Presents Shock Value

ASIN: B000NJWSYE
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

Definition of an Ese - Diamonique, Down aka Kilo
I'm Coming Home to You - Nate Dogg, Down aka Kilo
Be About It - Nikki Diaz, Down aka Kilo
Don't Be Jealous - Nikki Diaz, Down aka Kilo, Fingazz
Lean Like Cholo - Down aka Kilo
G's Need Love Too - Nikki Diaz, Down aka Kilo
Got to Hustle - Butch Cassidy, Down aka Kilo, Flakiss
G Way - Down aka Kilo, Snoop Dogg
Everlasting Nights - Down aka Kilo, Tanya Gomez
You Ain't Gettin' Nothin' - Down aka Kilo, Fingazz
Just Like You - B Real, , Down aka Kilo

Tracks:

Lean Like a Cholo [DVD] - Down aka Kilo
G's Need Love Too [DVD] - Nikki Diaz, Down aka Kilo
I'm Coming Home to You [DVD] - Nate Dogg, Down aka Kilo
Definition of an Ese [DVD] - Diamonique, Down aka Kilo
Miami Te Quiero [DVD] - Down aka Kilo, Jenni Rivera
Bonus Material [DVD][*]

Average customer rating:

THE DEFINTION of the beginning of the end.
Time To Hang 'Em Up, L {2 Stars}
Impressed
The DEFinition of Rap - The CD which made me a fan of his
LL Cool J - The DEFinition

The DEFinition
LL Cool J
Manufacturer: Def Jam
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Old School | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music

Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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10 [Bonus Track]
Phenomenon
G.O.A.T. Featuring James T. Smith: The Greatest of All Time
Todd Smith
Mr. Smith

ASIN: B0002QXMN4
Release Date: 2004-08-31

Tracks:

Headsprung featuring Timbaland
Rub My Back (2nd or 3rd single)
I'm Gonna Get Her featuring R. Kelly
Move Somethin'
Hush featuring 7 Aurelius (2nd or 3rd single)
Every Sip
Shake It Baby
Can't Explain It
Feel The Beat
Apple Cobbler
1 In The Morning

Amazon.com

Can LL still make a case for being the G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time)? Well, let's just say that this position is becoming more difficult to defend. Enlisting the talents of Timbaland to sonically sculpt most of his 11th record is a wise move. The hook-driven jump-off "Headsprung" fits perfectly into its current urban-music landscape. Conceptually, "Move Somethin'" reveals that LL can still flip nouveau rap flows when called upon. The problem is that LL Cool J long ago decided to stop being "hard as hell," instead allowing his R&B-rapper persona to creep in further. Thus, a lot of this release, much like his most recent previous efforts, is filled with offensively boring love songs. Even with R. Kelly dropping by and Timbaland delivering fantastic synthesizer blasts, LL's boasts of getting better with age simply do not hold up. The great ones never know when to throw in the towel--or at least slow down the output--and only LL diehards will lick their lips to this one. --Dalton Higgins

Customer Reviews:

THE DEFINTION of the beginning of the end........2007-03-08

As a huge LL fan it saddened me to hear alot of the joints on this although I was feeling some of them. The production by Timbaland is straight up funky so I aint gonna hate on it regardless of whether or not its a little softer than I used to listening to. Once again my man Norfeest's review is very accurate, the main problem I found with this album was the lack of depth and the alarming weakness of LL's rhymes on certain songs. This album verges on the diabolical albums "Phenomenon" and "Todd Smith" for r+b feel but is saved by around 3 songs. Im so disgusted with those 2 albums I wont even write a review about them. They were rapidly given to my girl cuz she digs R+B. Having got the pleasure of seeing LL recently live I realised how many class tracks he has in his vast repetoire but very few have been done since the "Mr.Smith" album. I wait in bated breath for him to release an album with that hard edge again in the vein of "Mama Said Knock..." or even "14 Shots..." then retire from the mic. As far as this album I personally hated "Hush", "Can't Explain It" and "1 In The Morning". I thought "Rub My Back", "I'm Gonna Get Her", "Every Sip" and "Apple Cobbler" were bareable b'cuz of decent production. I liked "Headsprung", "Move Somethin'", "Shake It Baby" and "Feel The Beat". This album really needed some harder heavier hiphop joints rather than being yet another R+B album from a HIPHOP pioneer!!!

Time To Hang 'Em Up, L {2 Stars}.......2007-01-04

My guess would be that most of the four and five star reviews are from fans of pop music. But if you're into hip hop, you know that this is easily one of LL's worst albums ever. I'm not one of those old fogeys that is stuck in 1990 and still waiting for Mama Said Knock You Out II. In order to remain relevant, he has to update his sound with the times. But the fact is that you've heard others do it way better than L is doing it. Some of these rhymes sound like they were written by his kids (which is simply unacceptable from a veteran of almost 22 years). The production is nice on a lot of tracks (7 Aurelius, R. Kelly, Timbaland, Teddy Riley, N.O. Joe, and Dame Grease), but some of the tracks sound like forced attempts at making a club banger. If that isn't bad enough, L's lyrics are just plain ol' wack on a lot of these joints and he does a poor job of not getting swallowed up by Timbo's hot production. Despite help from Teddy Riley, I have to say that "I'm About To Get Her" has some of the worst metaphors and similies I've EVER heard and "Rub My Back" is straight up pitiful. No other word for it. "Move Somethin" is, if I'm being nice about it, laughable at best. I guess the bottom line is that there are way too many forgettable cuts on this LP. Nothing will grab your attention after the new release buzz wears off.

There are a couple decent tracks. Well, basically, the singles are the best songs on the album. I'm feelin' "Hush" and "Headsprung" and "Every Sip" feature some great production from Timbaland. That's about all the good that comes to mind though. The rest is pretty forgettable.

The Definition is one of those albums that you don't bother listening to unless someone gives it to you for free. I understand that the Mr. Smith, Bigger & Deffer, Mama Said Knock You Out LL is no more. I don't live in the past and I understand the need to update things, but this change wasn't for the better and LL is left looking like a washed up rapper that let the game pass him by. I recommend downloading the singles and staying as far away from this album as you possibly can. Now that he's rollin' with 50 Cent, maybe his next release will have a little more punch to it.

Standout Tracks: Headsprung feat. Timbaland, Every Sip, and Hush feat. 7 Aurelius

Impressed.......2006-09-23

I love LL Cool J and everyone knows he is Fiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiine. But I must say this is one of his best albums. And what is most impressive is that is ear candy without all the cursing and anger. I love this album and I bought it used on Amazon and I am hooked. It's even better than the Todd Smith Album- which is hot too. So pick that up!

The DEFinition of Rap - The CD which made me a fan of his.......2006-07-31

Yeah, as my title says, this CD made me a fan of LL and, of course, also inspired me to my second name. Once 17-year-old LL showed us that he ain't too young 2 be a rap giggolo, now 20 years later he proves that he's not too old, either. The album was produced by Timbo, and the clubs should be filled, I dare to guess!!! From "Headsprung" over "Hush!" until "Feel the beat", his own slogan is what matters: "Get down 2 your knees, baby, praise the king - gonna show you now who built the west wing". I DO praise the king, LL - whether you're 17 or 77...

LL Cool J - The DEFinition.......2006-05-27

LL's performance on his 2004 album "The DEFinition" is nowhere near his best, this is a Hip-Hop/Club album for sure, relying on it's beats completely to appeal to the younger generation. i personally don't mind his soft songs though, i believe thats what LL is best at !, he does get alot of criticism over the issue of him being to soft, but oh well time 4 the review!

the album starts hot with the lead single "Headsprung" which is 1 of his hottest tracks he has made ever, when this album came out, i was bumping to this song nonstop!,i still listen to it to this day. Up Next is "Rub My Back" which is a decent song, i wanted 2 love it, but it never grew on me, it is nothing special. "I'm About To Get Her" which features R. Kelly is Track 3, and it is a pretty good song, this track did grow on me, the chorus is sang By R. Kelly and gives the track his flavour. Track 4 - "Move Somethin'" will get ppl out there bumpin', it's not a bad track, but not a great track either.

the next 2 Tracks are the hit single "Hush" and "Every Sip", these 2 tracks join "Headsprung" as 3 of the best tracks on the album for sure :). "Shake It Baby" is next up and is not a great song, but just a good song, nothing 2 special, i do listen to it though, "Can't Explain It" is slow and soothing, although it isn't a track i listen to at all. "Feel The Beat" Y'all! freak freak y'all, you don't stop! a hot track by LL here which alot of fans wish he did more of on this album. Timbaland's Presence behind the beat continues with "Apple Cobbler", the club beat is great like timbo's others, although this is not 1 of LL's best. The last track is "1 In The Morning", the chorus is bad but apart from that this is a decent track, nothing 2 special, but not great either.

This isn't LL's Best Work, but it is acceptable, if you would prefer something more recent from him, then check out his latest album titled "Todd Smith" which features appearances by J-Lo, Mary J Blige, Jamie Foxx, Ginuwine and more!.

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