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A.F.I. | I Heard a Voice (Live from Long Beach)
After years of being around A.F.I finally released their first DVD. For old A.F.I. fans, you might feel a little let down. The DVD's main focus is the tour footage they shot in Long Beach in support of their current release "DECEMBERUNDERGROUND." The live footage is amazing with great sound and great camera work. AFI, did add some bonus content for this DVD such as interviews with AFI, the crew and The Despair Faction (AFI hardcore fans) as well as photos. If you missed this tour due to be sold-out dates or you if want to remember this tour it does an outstanding job for being a live concert DVD. But it is not a recap of A.F.I.'s history.

Alien Ant Farm - Up in The Attic
In 2005, Alien Ant Farm got together to record their third proper album with new guitarist Joe Hill (replacing Terry Corso, who joined Powerman 5000) in tow, and with Incubus-producer Jim Wirt calling the shots. That album became "Third Draft," which unfortunately didn't see the light of day in '05, mainly due to a fallout with Geffen Records. Well, Alien Ant Farm are back once again with a new album, "Up In The Attic," on a new record label, and with a new bassist as well. Well, "Third Draft" fans might be a bit disappointed to find that "Up In The Attic" is, except for one new track, the same exact thing. Not that it's a bad thing. "Third Draft" is/was a tough album to come by, and it's great, but for those who do have it, this release is a bit bland, especially considering the new track, "Forgive And Forget," really isn't all that special. Regardless of what you call the album, it's definitely up there as some of Alien Ant Farm's best material. Basically, it's a combination of the slickness of "ANThology" and the experimentation of "TruANT." "Around The Block" is this album's "Movies," while "Lord Knows" and "Crickets" show the more laid-back, funky style of the previous album. "She's Only Evil" is probably the best of the album. A mainly acoustic, chilled out catchy little song that closes out the album beautifully."Up In The Attic," or "Third Draft," may not be adding anything new to the band's sound, but it's a solid effort that confirms they still have relevancy, long after their 'One-Hit-Wonder' status has faded. It's also an album worth hearing, as it is the last recorded with original bassist, Tye Zamora, who pulled a Rivers Cuomo, in leaving rock for college. Tye was a big part of the AAF sound, so this last round is something all fans need to hear. In fact, this is really an album anyone who likes Alien Ant Farm can appreciate.

Alien Ant Farm - BUSted: The Definitive DVD (2006)
Being labeled as "The Definitive DVD," Alien Ant Farm's "BUSted" attempts to collect each and everything Alien Ant Farm related, since their beginnings in 1996, all in one place. From their music videos -- of which, there are plenty -- to the obligatory on-the-road/in-the-studio documentary, to a complete concert, all you could ever want is in this one disc. "Road To Wreckage" is a lengthy documentary that spans the band's career up until this point. Despite lacking more recent footage (perhaps due to label problems and missing members), this section more than makes up for it, by capturing AAF's early years really well. Unlike most band doc's, however, this one doesn't have much of a narrative or a direction, and mainly feels like a big party -- complete with WAY too much nudity. The mood gets slightly heavy when the group's infamous bus-crash in 2002 is brought up, but not enough to kill the mood. Look out for cameos from James Hetfield (Metallica) and members of 311, Papa Roach (who helped sign the band) and Linkin Park. "Live In Germany" is a professionally-shot concert captured on February 13, 2002, and as such, it revolves mostly around material from "ANThology." The band does, however, break out a preview for the following album, "TruANT" in "S.S. Recognize" and even busts out the "Spider-Man" inspired tune, "Bug Bytes." As hinted at in the previous documentary, this DVD has been in the works for quite some time, so it's no wonder we don't have a more recent show to watch. Finally, we have music videos, of which, there are plenty. From the three versions of their first single, "Movies" to "These Days" -- which finds the band performing everywhere, from a Gay Pride Parade to the BET awards -- not a moment is missed. Three videos from the new album, "Up In The Attic," -- "Forgive And Forget," "Around The Block" and "She's Only Evil" -- are extremely low budget and almost seem to be a parody of how obsolete conventional music videos have become.

Alec Berlin - Beauty, Gazing At The Trough
Brooklyn indie, New York rocker Alec Berlin has come with his indie release "Beauty, Grazing At The Trough." Slammed with twelve outstanding songs from start to end. The first track "Everything I Want" has a fun mature sound. The humor that every guy can relate to is on his track "My Baby Likes To Eat." Which has just an up beat to eat and catchy chorus. Then on the track "I know The Truth" Mr. Berlin shows off his great song writing skills. After a long night of hanging out and coming home when the sun is coming up, I know "The Truth" is a song that I would kill to hear on the radio. He has brought to the world of music his vision of music and you hear throughout the CD. He is himself, honest and rocking throughout the whole CD.
(www.alecberlin.com )

Alien VS. Predator Requiem [Unrated]
For those who found 2004's Aliens vs. Predator too lightweight in the gore-and-guns department, Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem offers a marked improvement in both categories, as well as a respectable amount of rumbles between the title extraterrestrials. Set in the 21st century (which predates the story to all of the Alien features), Requiem sends a crippled Predator ship crashing to Earth in a small Colorado town; unbeknownst to the locals, the craft is loaded with H.R. Giger's insectoid monsters, which make quick work of most of the population. As the human cast is slowly whittled to a few hardy (if unmemorable) souls, a Predator warrior also arrives to complicate matters and do battle with the Aliens, as well as a ferocious alien-Predator hybrid (dubbed a Predalien by the sci-fi and horror press). Visual-effects designers and music-video helmers, The Strause Brothers (who make their feature directorial debut here), keep the action on frantic throughout, which is wise since the dialogue and characters are threadbare at best. That should matter little to teenage male viewers who are inarguably the film's key audience. Fans of the Alien franchise, however, may find the off handed nod to the series' mythology, given during the finale, its sole saving grace.
www.avp-r.com

Alpha Dog
Idle time is the Devil's play ground. This is the film based on a group of young adults and teens. Growing up in loving house holds and trying to be apart of the in crowd and only creating problems that they inflicted. They grew up together in the suburbs of L.A, living their own version of the American Dream, with everyday being a blur of partying and looking for the next thrill. Johnny Hollywood is the leader in their sorted world of drugs, greed, power and privilege. But when he is double-crossed by another dealer things quickly begin to spiral out of control and an impulsive kidnapping leads to a shocking conclusion. Justin Timberlake, Sharon Stone, and Bruce Willis are some of the actors that star in this powerful and controversial film. The film is very on point to the true story which inspired this film. The downside to the DVD is the extras which contains the small piece of the Making of Alpha Dog and a witness timeline. I want to know more about the story of Johnny Hollywood so maybe they will come out with a special edition in a couple of months.

ALTERED
From the Director of one of the most memorable films, "The Blair Witch Project," Eduardo Sanchez comes with one terrifying, disturbing, horrifying and heart-pounding movie. Fifteen years ago, a group of men's lives were forever changed by a strange occurrence. The men were abducted by aliens. Only four returned. Now these same four men have managed to capture one of the creatures who killed their friend and ruined their lives and it's time for payback but payback swings both ways. The story might sound like a cheap horror flick, but it goes way that. With fear put into place this is not a film for the weak or faint at heart. Where "Signs" failed, "Altered" takes the viewer hostage for an hour and half and gives few breaks in between. The only down point in the film, I felt, was the actual ending. The ending might have the viewer let down by the fact you can almost see a sequel come from it. The extras are a couple of deleted scenes and that's about it.

Alvin and The Chipmunks
Families come in many different shapes and sizes but few humans consider rodents members of the family. Dave Seville (Jason Lee) is no exception, so when this failing musician finds three young talking chipmunks gorging themselves in his kitchen cupboards, Dave is quick to question his sanity. Then he tosses the offending chipmunks outside into the rain to restore order. When Dave hears the chipmunks singing outside his window he realizes that that unusual trio might just be the world's next vocal sensation. He strikes a bargain with them--the chipmunks can stay with him if they sing his songs. While chipmunks Alvin (Justin Long), Theodore (Jesse McCartney), and Simon (Matthew Gray Gubler) quickly begin to see Dave as a father figure, it's strictly a business arrangement for Dave and he maintains an appropriate emotional distance. Dave's frustration with the chipmunks mounts as they unwittingly wreak havoc on his personal life but when Dave's old friend and record label mogul Ian (David Cross) begins to exploit the chipmunks for personal gain, Dave suddenly realizes what an important part of his life, and indeed his family, the three chipmunks have become. Hilarity reins in this live action/CGI comedy with many memorable scenes--think chipmunks showering in the dishwasher, riding in remote control planes, and bouncing off the walls under the influence of a serious caffeine buzz. Catchy Chipmunks' songs both new and old promise to lodge themselves in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll and even those none-too-enchanted with the premise of singing chipmunks can't help but be entertained by this comical film.
www.thechipmunks.com

The Alphabetical Order - I Am Magically Happening
The Alphabetical Order & Headless Horseman Records Presents "I Am Magically Happening." One of the most diverse rock records on the market for both the major and independent circuit for 2007. The Alphabetical Order's first track "Constant State" sets off the tone of a record in one of the best ways. It seems nowadays you can put on any record from any artist and have a hard time telling the difference from track to track. Where on "I Am Magically Happening" not one song has that problem through out the outstanding ten tracks on the record. The music on " I Am Magically Happening" is way over the top.
( www.thealphabeticalorder.org )

Alyse Black - Too Much, Too Lovely
Are you feeling ugly and need a pick me up to feel good again? Alyse Black takes music and helps make people that feel like ugly ducklings feel like beautiful swans. Strip the lights away from an arena show and move it into an independent pure form and you will have "Too Much, Too Lovely." This record is strong enough to stand on its own with major label albums such as Regina Spektor's "Begin To Hope." The record stays on track from beginning to end. All twelve tracks are out standing. If I had to pick a favorite I would have to go with "Complete With Sound Effects." That track makes me think of Poe and Regina Spektor getting together over coffee. ( AlyseBlack.com )

Aiden - Rain In Hell (CD/DVD)
From doing so much touring for their last CD, Nightmare Anatomy, Aiden found time to put together a package for their fans, a CD/DVD combo. The CD contains two covers "White Wedding" and "Die, Die, My Darling" as well as four original songs. With the new songs Aiden doesn't scream as much as on Nightmare Anatomy. Which can be a big plus now that is very common to find every band following a certain formula. The opening track " A Candlelight Intro" sets a new chapter for Aiden with a very dark, simple melody in the vein as artists such as H.I.M. The track "The Suffering" brings it back to a punk anthem with the chorus "Burn! Your! Friends!" The DVD contains a full set from a show they play at The House of Blues in Chicago, from the Never Sleep Again Tour. The live footage was filmed with an amateur feel to it, as the shots move very quick and some times they are unfocused. The sound from the live show to DVD, contains a lot of distortion of sound that does become over whelming at times. The video catalog is excellent for showing the growth of these punk lads. Consider this release as something to hold you over until the next Aiden record is released. As I feel this record was established Aiden fans, as lead singer Wil wrote a personal message from his point of view in being in a band as well as a thank you note to Aiden fans.

American Meth (DVD)
Narrated by Val Kilmer , who played a meth-addicted musician in 2002's The Salton Sea, the director backtracks to the birth of amphetamine in the late-1800s, which leads to methamphetamine in the early-1990s, before returning to the present (as fellow New Mexico resident Kilmer notes, Adolf Hitler was a regular user). For the most part, Hunt focuses on addicts, police officers, politicians, health providers, and social workers. As one man, who lost a friend to the drug, poetically laments, "It's the devil's serum, and it leads you nowhere but into hell." Kalispell Police Chief Frank Garner agrees. As he puts it, "There is nothing good to say about it, and all the bad stuff you've heard is true." He adds that meth is "worse than all the other things I've seen come before it." Hunt concludes by spending two weeks with James and Holly, a New Mexico couple battling addiction while raising four children. This film is funded in part by Hunt's non-profit American Meth Education Foundation and shot over 16 months. American Meth feels like the work of a first-time filmmaker. It moves quickly in the beginning, but the pace slows once James and Holly enter the picture. Still, Hunt's debut offers an eye-opening look at a serious issue. American Meth can come off as a PBS special to some though. www.americanmeth.org

Amity Lane - The Sound of Regret
Amity Lane, named after the lead singers (Kevin Palmer) old childhood street. With high energy and amazing production, which some acts lack, Amity Lane come with it all, and having no filler tracks to take up space on the record makes it a great record. To put a label on the CD would be unjustfiying it. To put it in simple terms; it's rock and you can add all the subgenres in as you feel needed. The first track "Drown You Out" has what it takes to be on radio, but without a major label backing it. The music of Amity Lane is for people right in the middle of the rock world, as it is hard and melodic at times. But does not push either as a hard gimmick on it's listener. Coming with a full huge sound of music, making it seem bigger and bighter, then the previous work the musicans have done before.

Annie Barker - Mountains and Tumult
Soft spoken with a sweet voice to back that up is Annie Barker. She made a record that you can play again and again. You still have a record that has hit after hit to back it. Any alt. or adult contemporary station should definitely check her out and add this to their rotation. The simple fact is there are ten track of amazing music that could, in my eyes, be used as a single. It is wonderful that I was not able to find any real filler on "Mountains and Tumult." Annie Barker is another one to be an example that not all idols are found on T.V.
anniebarker.com

Apocalyptica - Worlds Collide “Worlds Collide” is the 2007 album from the Finnish Metal cellists Apocalyptica. It features ten original tracks plus a cover of David Bowie's 'Helden' ('Heroes' sung in German) performed with Rammstein's Till Linderman on vocals. This album also features other guest vocalists including Corey Taylor, Dave Lombardo (Slayer), Tomoyasu Hotei (superstar Japanese composer, whose credits include the Kill Bill soundtrack), Cristina Scabbia (Lacuna Coil) and Adam Gontier (3 Days Grace). There are several versions available including the 11 track standard, 11 tracks with bonus DVD, the extra bonus tracks “Lies,” “Ural,” and “Dreamer.” The Japanese bonus track version comes with a bonus DVD including the video for “I'm Not Jesus,” the making of “I'm Not Jesus,” and interview, a Japanese interview, live videos of “Master Of Puppets” and “Betrayal,” and a photo gallery. There is also the European deluxe edition with 2 bonus tracks, “Ural” and “Dreamer,” and the DVD minus the live videos and the Japanese interview; there is a 13 track European version with no DVD. Any version you get will be excellent, from start to finish this album has the tempo changes and the intensity that we have come to expect from the original compositions by this band. The vocal tracks on the album are all decent but I'm still more interested in the music behind them; however, Apocalyptica makes it work well. Tracks to play loud are "I'm Not Jesus,” "I Don't Care," and "Worlds Collide." This is a very good album for first timers to get, and a must have for fans. www.apocalyptica.com

Archer Avenue - We Watched The Headlights; We Watched The Stars
Archer Avenue is an rock band and should be proud of that. As their record takes on a energy filled sound without going over the top. They created easy sing along music for people to enjoy. Archer Avenue should have you enjoying life with such tracks as "Radio," which will have you wanting to sing along with them on "You got the radio on." I got my radio and readied it for Archer Avenue to take the radio on and be one of the bands soon to be on it all the time.
archeravenuemusic.com

As Cities Burn - Come Now Sleep
As Cities Burn made a record that you can slam into your player and drive across the country and enjoy the ride. Ten tracks of intelligent music that takes you on a journey to an Empire in your mind. "Come Now Sleep" is a record that could be a huge staple on the future of music. As you feel the passion they have for their music throughout the record. From the mellow lyrics to the hard hitting lyrics which is placed on the track "This is it, This is it." If you already enjoy acts such as Brand New and Sparta give As Cities Burn a chance.
ascitiesburn.com

Atmosphere - When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold
Rhymesavers is the label that serves the world with the best hip hop. “When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold” debut at number 5 on billboard the week it came out, making it the best debut for both Rhymesavers Records and Atmosphere. “When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold” is not just a good hip hop record but a phenomenal record in general. Atmosphere proves he not just a talented MC but a real musician for all to enjoy. This album explains a lot about the 5 track EP's and free albums Slug and Ant released leading up to this release. From track 1 until track 15 this album is a story. This isn't a party album but a masterful piece that proves true hip hop is NOT dead. This record is a must own for the year.
www.rhymesayers.com

The Audition - Champion
I have been waiting for this record for a long time. I first came across The Audition back in early 2006 with their release of "Controversy Loves Company." Now a couple of years later and The Audition has finally put out their follow-up record “Champion.” The band has now been touring nonstop for years now. You can hear through out the record the band has grown up and matured more. The first single “Warm Me Up” has the same high energy that their fans love with a very simple catchy chorus. This might not be the best record ever, but it's damn good. I can tell you this much from seeing The Audition live, they put on such a good show almost no one can resist. ( TheAuditionRocks.com )

AWAKE (DVD)
AWAKE is a sexy, psychological thriller about a common occurrence called "anesthetic awareness" a horrifying phenomenon wherein a patient's failed anesthesia leaves him fully conscious but physically paralyzed during surgery. The patient's charming new wife is forced to struggle with her own demons as a terrifying drama unfolds around the couple. There's a hint of classic noir in the twists and turns that make up Awake, a medical thriller that hinges on an alarming real-life condition known as anesthesia awareness. Hayden Christensen is top-billed as the scion of a wealthy banking family in desperate need of a heart transplant. Seconds after the operation commences, he discovers that he is fully conscious, yet unable to move; and what's worse, the entire procedure is slated to fail in order to claim his considerable fortune. Once the scheme is set in motion, Awake moves into high gear, and the stock characters established in the exposition-heavy opening show their true (and decidedly scurrilous) colors. Unfortunately, the suspense is undone by Christensen undergoing what appears to be a confusing out-of-body experience, and a conclusion that begs for more suspension of disbelief than most audiences will be able to summon up. Christensen and Jessica Alba (as his new bride) are attractive but bland; instead, it's Howard who delivers as the film's conflicted antihero. The supporting players, including Lena Olin as Christensen's overprotective mom, Christopher McDonald, and Arliss Howard also lend considerable credence to the material. www.awakethemovie.com

Bamboozle Road Show
Saves The Day
Armor For Sleep
A Cursive Memory
Set Your Goals
Metro Station
Location: The Joint (Inside the Hard Rock Casino) [Las Vegas, Nevada]
Date: April 4th, 2008
I went the the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV to see the Bamboozle Road Show. When I got into the short line to get into The Joint I felt like an underdog in the high class Rockstar style casino. The Joint normally had a couple thousand people inside for a show. On that night there were only a couple hundred. Most of the people that went to the show were real music fans and big Saves the Day fans. The crowd was warm and open to all the opening acts. Maybe I was just in a great mood this evening but every band that played I enjoyed and respected. Metro Station, Set Your Goals, Armor For Sleep, and Saves the Day all played from their heart and did not rush through their set. As some might have thought due to the low attendance that evening that the show would not be worth the money but it really was because all the bands made it great. You could not deny the friendships of all the bands. When you see tight bonds with these bands in someway you see a family on stage that you would enjoy being apart of. Now the lack of attendance for Bamboozle Road Show has so many factors behind it that it would be hard to pin point the main reason but one reason could be due to the fact that those bands are not shoved down your throat by radio or T.V. which makes music lovers go out of their way to find these kind of bands. Unlike most cities that have a drive of hardcore music lovers Vegas lacks this for some reason or another. The Bamboozle Road Show was an amazing package and it was a real gathering of music lovers that care about music before image.[ BamboozleRoadShow.com]

Be Kind Rewind A daffy, adorable, and very funny celebration of DIY spirit. Be Kind Rewind stars Mike (Mos Def; T he Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy ) as a clerk at a failing video store in a rundown New Jersey neighborhood. His friend Jerry (Jack Black) has been magnetized in a power station accident and wipes all of the videotapes blank. When this happens the two of them decide to recreate the movies themselves rather than face the store's owner (Danny Glover). The pure charm of Be Kind Rewind can't be captured in that spare plot synopsis. The blend of the movie's great cast (which also includes Mia Farrow, Melonie Diaz of American Son , and Sigourney Weaver) and pitch-perfect writing and direction from writer-director Michel Gondry (director of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind , writer-director of The Science of Sleep ) culminates in a truly delightful movie--sweet without being saccharine, richly comic without irony or sarcasm (which, given the presence of Black, is surprising), sentimental without losing sight of the hard edges of life. Mos Def turns in a standout performance, deeply sympathetic without a moment of grandstanding. Be Kind Rewind doesn't reach the heights of Eternal Sunshine but it doesn't seem to be aiming for that genius. This is simply a hilarious comedy film for fans of all types which celebrates the sheer joy of watching and making films. www.bekindmovie.com

Believers [Unrated]
While on duty David Vaughn (Messner) and Victor Hernandez (Huertas), two emergency paramedics, receive a call from a young girl whose mother has lost consciousness in a deserted area but they soon discover that the life they have to save may be their own. Kidnapped and locked in an isolated building David tries to discover the truth behind a secret cult and their beliefs, as Victor's beliefs are challenged and the fine-line between religion and science are crossed. David must find a way to escape and get out before "they" get him. In a society where beliefs in religion and beliefs in science are constantly challenged, Believers explores the manipulative measures some use to take advantage of lost souls. In the film, the Quanta Group is portrayed as a cult similar to the Heaven's Gate believers who committed mass suicide with the coming of the comet Hale-Bopp. It remains to be determined exactly what the Quanta Group really is and whether or not they are indeed a cult as suggested by the movie. Apparently they claim to be a group of elite scientists who have unraveled the mysteries of the universe. The movie is certainly worth watching, both as a simple horror film but also to understand this particular group.
BelieversMovie.com

Better Luck Tomorrow (DVD)
Justin Lin's well received 2002 independent feature, Better Luck Tomorrow, is a strangely appealing story of mystery, somehow inexorable drift of an ultra-conscience, Southern California high school senior, Ben (Parry Shen), toward a fateful interlude with crime. Though highly focused on impressing colleagues with his thoughtful balance of excellent grades, energized volunteer work (as a translator), and varsity sports (warming the bench during basketball games), something about Ben appears to be unraveling. Perhaps it is an attraction to his out-of-reach lab partner (Karin Anna Cheung), or his growing attachment to hard cash, or simply the malaise that coats his every act of self-denial. In any case, he and a brood of fellow Asian American overachiever;s metamorphose into the local go-to gang of black-market thievery--all while keeping up their classes. Lin brings a fresh angle to the exhausted youth-crime genre, and clarifies, with no small wisdom, the distinction between building a future and living one's destiny.

Big B - More To Hate
Forget the over the top music that Las Vegas is getting known for with such acts as The Killers & Panic! at The Disco. Big B is on the side for the people that are not ashamed of where they are in life. With two full length solo albums and the Random Stuff CD/DVD combo behind him, Big B, even surprised me with this third release on one of the most underrated record labels, Suburban Noize Records. He stepped it up, for the market in which most artist get pigeon held, by the fans. More To Hate has hard hitting lyrics as on "American Dream," to the party song of "Pass The Jager." The vibe is a shade lighter compared to his previous work, but still manages to not go too far, so that his already established fans base would not turn their backs on him for this album.
( FeedBigB.com )

Big B - Random Stuff (CD/DVD)
Big B has managed to release two other CD's on his own and now this third one with a DVD. I was stoked to put in my player. To my surprise there is not too much new material on it. But he has managed to release his single "Hooligan" on all three. There is about 6 new songs and some new videos that have not been put on the other releases by Suburban Noize and anew cut off the Random Stuff DVD (also know as Random Shit). You might think with the new cut that they would hve put new stuff on the DVD. Well from his self release of Random Shit to this new one Random Stuff they only cut out about 5 minutes of the DVD for the Suburban Noize release. Both DVD's have outrageous footage that I strongly advise that you should be 18 to buy. As the movie portion contains footage, that some may find offesive, or kids may try to recreate. If you're a Big B fan that owns his stuff, I would suggest waiting on picking this one up as it's almost a best of plus a little more. It's great place to start for people who have not heared of Big B and/or are curious about him. I have to say I am a fan of Big B's work, however on this release I felt really a little let down on the fact it seemed rushed to be put out. There is not much new material on it, that hasn't been put out already in some way or another." However, the new track "Higher Than a MotherFucker" is one of the best tracks to date that Big B has done, making it worth it for fans to hear it.

Bill Vivino - Still Frame E.P.
In the essence of John Mayer and Jason Marz hailing around the New York and New Jersey area, comes Bill Vivino. He expresses true emotions on this six song E. P. This singer songwriter is making music to dazzle his listeners with a sweet soft clear voice and soft music. The opening track "Change Your Mind" has a funky jazz vibe that puts the CD into frame. Bill shows off compassion and vocal compatibles on "Still Frame." Music listeners might want to brush him off as an average coffee house singer in a flooded market. I see him as a shining light that with motivation could be as big as acts such as John Mayer.

Blue Jar - Pelican Crossing
The members of Blue Jar come from a mix of backgrounds. They have combined their specialties and arranged and composed one of the most interesting CD's. From beginning to end you can hear the love these musicians have for their music. As I sat down in my hectic day Blue Jar's "Pelican Crossing" took me away from thinking about the troubles in which I was facing. As all good music should do it gives a form of escape such as a child sits down to read fairy tales for the first time.
www.myspace.com/bluejarbelfast
( Click here to Buy Blue Jar - Pelican Crossing )

Bridge to Terabithia
Based on Katherine Paterson's young-adult novel and filmed in picturesque New Zealand, Bridge to Terabithia has lessons to impart about empathy and self-expression, but the tone is never heavy-handed. Jesse, a fifth-grade loner, lives in the country with his parents and four sisters, including pesky May Belle, who adores him. His strict father works in a hardware store. Money is tight and classmates make fun of his hand-me-downs, so Jesse finds refuge in running and drawing. Everything changes when two writers and their daughter Leslie move in next door. Leslie is faster than all the boys, which initially puts Jesse off, but the two soon bond over their love of make-believe. In the forest, they find a creek that can only be crossed by rope. Leslie names the land on the other side Terabithia, where they imagine themselves rulers of the kingdom. Jesse and Leslie also connect with their unconventional music teacher, Ms. Edmonds, who encourages their creativity. Despite the tension at home, Jesse's personal life is finally coming together when the unthinkable happens. Will he revert to his anti-social ways or will he grow from the experience? Though aimed at all ages, pre-school students may find Terabithia's creatures frightening. For grade-school kids and up, however, there's much to savor in this smartly written, sensitively acted film. The 14-minute featurette "Behind the Book: The Themes of Bridge to Terabithia " discusses such topics as friendship and family as presented in both the book and the movie through interviews with the young lead actors, the book's author, Katherine Paterson, and several librarians and school teachers. Paterson and her son, producer-screenwriter David Paterson, also recall how an actual incident in David's life inspired the book. A six-minute visual-effects featurette looks at the film's creatures from sketch to computer design to screen, including how the features of the school kids helped shape the creatures. Josh Hutcherson and AnnaSophia Robb, "chaperoned" by producer Lauren Levine, recount their experiences on one commentary track, while the second, by director Gabor Csupo, writer Jeff Stockwell, and producer Hal Lieberman, is drier but informative. Topics covered include praise for young Bailee Madison, how Zooey Deschanel wouldn't have been considered a predator back in the '70s, and the somewhat-controversial marketing campaign that focused heavily on the film's fantasy elements. Also included is Robb's music video for "Keep Your Eyes Wide Open."

The Briggs - Come All You Mad Men
“Come All You Mad Men” is a record that is far from bland and boring. The Briggs continue to be one of the most compelling and unique bands on the market. The latest release “Come All You Mad Men” has the same old school punk vibe that does not come off as another cliché. Take the heavy music, rough vocals, and tons of yelling to make the perfect mixture for today’s youth. Put your fists in the air and stomp your boots to their Irish Rock banter.
www.thebriggs.org

Borat - Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (DVD)
Is the hype real for this movie. I was shocked just like everyone who viewed this film, that the mainstream gave this movie love. Borat is a film about a fictional character coming from " Kazakhstan." The character of Borat travels to America to help his country of " Kazakhstan" with living. This is one of those films you will love or hate, you not going to find too many people in the middle on this one. Borat try's so hard to fit in with the way of living here in America learning from the people he runs into, but yet never truly fits in. Borat is a kind person, even with his shocking remarks he makes at times. It's almost never shocking as those he is talking to about american lifestyles with. If the actual film did not have enough to be shocked at, the packaging of the DVD does. The actual DVD disc looks like a black market copy of the film, with handwriting on it saying Borat. When you pull off the outer sleeve of the package that is wrote in English the under package has Kazakhstan writing all over it. This film is Rated R for a reason and I should note their is a scene that features two nude males wrestling. If you enjoy laughing and are not uptight, trust me this movie is worth the hype.

Bootleg Tonic - Volume 1
Bootleg Tonic “Volume 1” is part soul with a mix of blues. “Volume 1” is not over produced or for that matter under produced. This record has the brilliant independent minds behind it to see the flooded music market. Tracks such as “Haven't You Heard,” “Hard Times” and “Scars” are amazing for the independent market but can hold their own in the mainstream market. Bootleg Tonic did not hold back their creativity on the record.  “Volume 1” can and more than likely will get them to a wider audience. www.bootlegtonic.com

Brand New
It's hard to find a band now-a-days making it on their own terms successfully. Brand New has done it, as some would call them the godfathers of the dreadful word "emo." Not doing a lot of promotions, huge ads or buying a rage of TV spots for their first major release. You would think you were asking for trouble by doing so. Brand New even surprised me with the buzz this record had on the streets. They brings the same formula that has kept them successful all these years by making simple, pleasing music that their fans love, time and time again. When bands go from being on a indie label to a major, fans sometimes feel the music gets lost in the mist of a higher budget. To me the music has the same feel it has had all the years they have been around. The opening tracks "Sowing Season" and "Millstone" have the same feel that their previous release "Deja Entendu" would have. The downside side to this release was sadly the packaging. It seemed that Brand New tried a little to hard with making it seem like an indie release. By the home taken pictures inside and having the track listing inside the package. The main thing is the music though it is as strong as it always have been.

Broken Center - Deception
It can be hard to find decent music in a flooded market haling from Deland, FL . Broken Center comes to the music game with their release "Deception." They bring a rock edge with a lot of melody. I admire the vocals by Dave Lee, as in most groups they have to add a scream now and then, where Dave focuses on his singing capabilities. The music that Broken Center puts out on this release has a rock edge without under or over doing it, making it a good match of music put together. The tracks "Beautiful Misery" and "Without You." are some of the tracks that stand out on this release, showing the true emotions with words and music.
For more information on Broken Center Check out: www.myspace.com/brokencenter

Brother Ali - The Undisputed Truth
This is the the full course meal for music. "Our songs are supposed to be the voice of our soul." That is a song lyric quote taken from Rhyme Savers Recording artist Brother Ali. This is a classic hip-hop album in every way. In the likes of other acts such as KRS-1 and EMPD, which were heavily based on lyrical content and the complex structure of beats. Those unfamiliar with Ali's work, the disc is packaged with a full length DVD (a full inside look into Ali). The DVD contains a long in-depth interview, live shows, and three Rhyme Savers commericals for the disc. I would compare this record to another ground breaking record which is Tech N9Ne's "Absolute Power," which had a Full length DVD and full length CD. The reason is; both artists went out of their way to please the consumer of their music. In an age where with a click of a mouse you can download the artist's music in seconds, Brother Ali, knew the demand to make a classic record at the present time. From the outstanding great music, great package, and DVD, illgeal downloaders won't even get a fraction of the full enjoyment inside "The Undisputed Truth." Overall, this is one of the best records in hip-hop to come out in years, making genuine good music from begining to end with no fillers.
( www.myspace.com/brotherali )

The Bucket List In Rob Reiner's moving, often hilarious film The Bucket List , all sorts of people measure themselves against the two heroes, Chambers and his hospital suitemate, Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson), but as Cole finds, having spent his entire life building a Fortune 500 company, none of that much matters when cancer, the great equalizer, pays a visit. The film traces the adventures of the two unlikely friends, who meet in a hospital cancer ward, each given six months to live. The "bucket list" of the title refers to a lifelong list of goals that a teacher of Chambers once advised him to compile and achieve before you kick the bucket." Soon the two are off on what may be the last grand adventure of their life, vowing to tick off as many goals (skydiving, race-car driving, seeing the wonders of the world) as they can in the time they have left. What starts as a medical melodrama becomes a road trip, yet the men's mortality realities are never far from thought. The two leads give impressive performances, and remind the viewer of just how few American films focus on the lives and loves of senior citizens. Nicholson even manages to lose his persona in his character, much as he did in About Schmidt . There's a lovely John Mayer tune, "Say (What You Need to Say)," that's perfectly matched to the film's clear-eyed view of life. thebucketlist.warnerbros.com

Bully (DVD)
In January we lost another talented actor, Brad Renfro. Brad may have only hit critic's films list with two of his films “The Client” and “The Cure.” “Bully” was found by most critics to be very profound with it's explicit content, mostly due to director Larry Clark's first film “Kids.” Marty (Brad Renfro) is a tormented surfer who relies on his longtime pal Bobby (Nick Stahl) for rides to the beach and South Florida bars, despite vicious abuse, but when Bobby turns his unwanted attention to Marty's new girlfriend Lisa (Rachel Miner) and her best friend Ally (Bijou Phillips), Lisa decides Bobby's reign of terror must end. Assembling a crew of alienated suburban teens, she forms a deadly plan to get Bobby out of the way once and for all, turning friends into enemies and casual acquaintances into co-defendants in a murder that rocked America to its core. Bully will be proof for years to come that Brad Renfro was a talent that went unnoticed.
( Bully )

Carol Martini - The Rose In The Boxcar
Carol Martini has put together eighteen acoustic tracks. She even let people into her life a bit by dedicating the entire release to her dad, Ron Martini.  The eighteen tracks seem to be a bit much; however, the track “Hobo Joe” has a simple sweet melody with solid lyrics behind it. Carol Martini might not be the most talented or original for that matter but music is a creative element and some artist do amazing things. I feel “The Rose In The Boxcar” is not an album to drop everything and run out to get. It gets the dreaded descriptive word, Ok. dbaby.com/cd/carolmartini

Charlotte's Web (2006)
E.B. White's classic tale gets a Babe-like makeover in Charlotte's Web. It is a delightful, well-made film that is sure to become a family classic. Directed by Gary Winick (13 Going on 30 ), the new version eschews the musical numbers of the 1973 cartoon and mixes CGI with live-action animals. Dakota Fanning brings the right amount of chutzpah to Fern, the young farm girl who rescues a runt, Wilbur, from death and visits him every day at her Uncle Homer's farm. But it's Wilbur's friendship with Charlotte the spider (voiced by Julia Roberts) that ultimately saves him from the "smoke house" (a kid-friendly alternative term to the slaughterhouse). Which for Charlotte's talent for weaving praise worthy words about Wilbur into her web turns the Zuckerman farm into a tourist attraction. The more tragic elements of the book are handled sensitively by Winick, working from a script by Susannah Grant, and Roberts' soothing, maternal voice makes it all go down easy. It turns out to be just one of many perfect celebrity voice-casting choices, for the farm animals, voiced by an all-star cast including Oprah Winfrey (the goose), Robert Redford (the horse), Steve Buscemi (Templeton the rat), and John Cleese (the sheep), lend plenty of sharp humor. But it's two corn-hungry crows, voiced by Thomas Haden Church and OutKast's Andre "3000" Benjamin who steal the show. Don't worry parents your kids can watch this and won't be able to do a book report from it. There are some differences to make sure the kids read the book as well!

Chasing Victory - Friends
"Just a gimmick, but the kids seem to love it." ( A lyric quote from "Selling Out Ain't Easy")
Chasing Victory's new album "Friends" is a mixture of elements. The band has taken a more melodic approach toward their music by combining their signature guitar riffs with Adam Harrell's Jeff Buckley-esque vocals. This album veers off course and enters into a more experimental zone of rock. This is no longer a trend outfit that you can label but more a defined alternative band. The lyrics and music have a thought provoking element to each track. This is a one outstanding conceptual album that stands on its own.
( www.chasingvictory.com )

Chimaira  - Resurrection" Limited Edition" (CD/DVD)
Chimaira comes with their fourth national CD release Resurrection, on their new label Ferret Records. After leaving their last label RoadRunner Records, which is explained in the DVD portion of the package, Chimaria brings metal back to being rare and honest without being stupid. The opening track titled "Resurrection" is a rebirth of the band that comes full-throttle grabbing the listeners and punches them each time. The whole CD is relentless and never lets fans of Chimaira down as well as metal/hardcore fans down.
The limited edition package come with a DVD that contains a full length feature making of the album. Which can come off as a sequel to their first DVD "The Dehumanizing Process." This one brings fans up to speed with the end of Roadrunner Records, the new label as well Andols returning behind the drum kit. At the same time it's not as dark and gloomy as "The Dehumanizing Process" DVD. This one has a lot of fun footage to show that even this metal band knows how to how fun. Not to say it doesn't have it's dark moments. Guitar player Jim Lamarca has his own reel put on the DVD to show moments of him that got cut from the film. If that was not enough for the DVD they put on the music video for "Resurrection" on it as well. Chimaira fans and metal fans: this is a must own for your collection. Even if you don't like Chimaira or metal, the DVD portion is a must see. Even if you don't like Chimaira you have to respect them for never giving up.
( www.MySpace.com/Chimaira  )

Chiodos - Bone Palace Ballet
Chiodos has come to be one of the most surprising and successful acts to come out. Bone Palace Ballet is their follow up to their major Equal Vision Records release in which they keep on the same path and also changing it up to the next level. They added more piano and a little less screaming then the previous release. Bone Palace Ballet has a more dark feeling with the artwork and dark intro to the opening track "Is it Progression if a Cannibal Uses a Fork?" compared to the other work put out by Chiodos. The record is high energy and has an anthem feel for today's youth. As people try to put Chiodos in a music category it just gets harder the more a listener listens to their music. Taking influences from their surroundings Chiodos proves once again their is no bar they will not cross to make something new and creative as well as keeping it fresh. Bone Palace Ballet, is the record for 2007 taking risks in making a masterpiece. (www.chiodos.net )

Cinematic Sunrise - A Coloring Storybook And Long Playing Record Cinematic Sunrise, the side project of Craig Owens and Bradley Bell of the band Chiodos, has been making plenty of waves of their own. The first two tracks are by far the most standout songs on “A Coloring Storybook And Long Playing Record.” Besides alliteration “Pulling A Piano From A Pond” has a memorable melody going for it. The song begins with piano (obviously) and quickly adds a steady drum beat and employs soaring vocals during the chorus as well as music that compliments the singing ability of Craig Owens. With the title “A Coloring Storybook And Long Playing Record” and a joyful picture of animals on the cover you might not expect heart wrenching lyrics depicting the splitting of a couple but most songs on the album appear to be in that vain. The upbeat music and high pitched vocals do mask the sad messages but once you start singing along the pain inspired tracks show their true colors. Tracks “Our Honeymoon At Weston Hills” and “The Wordless” tend to blend together when listening straight through. On their own they are strong enough but compared to the record's other tracks they become drowned out. This record is a pleasant surprise and although it's short, it's definitely worth the money to own these songs. The downside is the record is a Hot Topic Exclusive making it the only story you can buy the record from. www.myspace.com/cinematicsunrise

Claas - Celebrity Death
It's time to scare labels and artists and basically the whole music industry in general. With those words said, how many times can you say you have heard of an artist who tells you you can download their complete full length CD for free? Only a few times perhaps. I got a message from one of Claas' fans telling me to download it. At first, I was thinking, well another artist trying to put out music that sucks. Well, after a couple of days, I finally went to Class's website (ClassMusic.com) to find out he put up artwork to download with the CD with credits of people who helped out with the CD. So I downloaded it not knowing what to expect. The intro comes on and i was immediatly blown away with the production and on how serious the CD actualy was. To point out the best songs on the CD is like asking a fat kid what they like to eat. It's that hard. Claas is what hip-hop was founded on being... yourself, as well as having punk ideas like going against the establishment. With the beats of hip-hop and some time dark moments in the music, Claas manages to make the listeners smile with their tribute to the 80's hit kid's TV show Fraggle Rock. You can think it sucks, but you got to respect the fact that Claas put a 21 track CD on the internet for free. This gives the rap genre a big plus for the fact that not all artists are in it for the money.

Clear Static - Clear Static
Old wave, or is it still called new wave? Clear Static has brought the geek sound of the 80's back. With their first release on Maverick Records, Clear Static manages not to have anything real special with their sound. The music is not horrible but it sounds like a cheap version of Duran Duran. The single "Make-up Sex," has good catchy chorus. When you do put the disc in, it has a one song feel to it. If you enjoyed the 80's well I guess Clear Stactic did too. As they thought they would make this record for all that Love the 80's.

Clerks 2
I am not going to sit here and lie and tell you that I think Kevin Smith or Scott Mosier are geniuses. As everything they put out is good by having their name attached. I thought the idea of Clerks 2 was one of the dumbest ideas I had heard. You can't even call this a sequel. It's a movie that stands on its own. The movie takes place ten years after the first film with Dante and Randal working at the famous Mooby's fast food. Dante announces his plan to leave New Jersey, Randal plots a shocking and hysterical going-away party that will alter their lives forever, featuring cameos by Ben Affleck, Jason Lee, Wanda Sykes and the triumphant return of Jay and Silent Bob. Kevin Smith managed to write some of the most memorable dialogue for a movie to date ("Did you know Jesus, was a Jew?"). When the first one came out, I kept wanting the movie to focus on Jay and Silent Bob. When viewing this movie, I so shocked by each characters and the true emotion they brought to the screen. The DVD has a high retail value of $29.99 (You can find it cheaper in stores), but the staff at View Askew add so much content the retail value is one that is far. On the second disc they added a 90 min documentary on the making of Clerks 2 "Back to the well - Clerks 2." This discs are filled with intros, commentaries, and a whole bunch of stuff to get your fill of Clerks 2. If you enjoyed the film this is a must have.

Cloverfield
The Blair Witch Project meets Godzilla that had me on the edge of my seat! On July 4th of 2007 the hit blockbuster of the summer Transformers made its debut into theatres. The trailer for Cloverfield was shown with no title attached to the project, which created the biggest internet buzz for a film that I have ever seen. People by the millions were logging on to find out anything about the movie. On January 8th 2008 Cloverfield made it debut into theatres. Cloverfield had no in between with movie fans. They either loved it of hated it. Cloverfield is a government leaked video about a creature invading New York City. The whole thing was shot from the perspective of an average guy named “Bud” on a hand held camera. Due to the hand held hand camera the video is very shaky and choppy. The main idea of the film is a group of friends that are everyday people and their face to face encounter with this creature. Now the main reason people ame to hate this film was a lot of people said it felt so fake. People who enjoyed this film loved it for the real effect that came across on film. A lot of the footage has very eerie feeling similar to the September 11th attacks. The DVD features are amazing for behind the scenes footage. The ‘behind the scenes’ takes you into the story idea behind Cloverfield, filming the project, and how they created these larger than life scenes. Fan boys, such as me, wanted to see the trailer that created the entire internet buzz. Unfortunately, they left it out on the version that is available now. They should be releasing another version that will probably see the light of day sometime next year since Paramount Pictures such green lighted “Clover field 2.” It is too long though to wait a year for another version to come out for geeks like me. This is definitely not a film to miss.
www.cloverfieldmovie.com

Copeland - Dressed Up & In Line
This album takes rare and unreleased recordings from Copeland from the last seven years, as well as visited some original tracks. Though in a remix by DJ Cakeface and you are ready to go get "Dressed Up & In Line." Copeland songs continue to be progressive technically and astonishingly beautiful. A perfect place to start with Copeland music if you haven't heard of them before. Even fans of Copeland will melt away time with this CD. I am "Dressed Up & In Line" with Copeland's Record.
thecopelandsite.com

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