Reviews written by ~vanessa.anne~
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9 people found the following helpful
August 7, 2006 What a talent...I prefer to write reviews of CD+DVD sets after I have seen the videos AND heard the music, but I won't have time to watch the videos for awhile and I felt I must write my thoughts about this amazingly gifted artist while her angelic vocals are still fresh in my mind.
WOW. She reminds me of some different singers at different points on the CD (such as A-Sun on track 1, such as Fiona Sit on track 4, and such as Xiao Xiao on track 12...), but she still retains her own unique quality and essence throughout the entire 13-song debut. Debut! She sounds more like someone who is releasing her 10th CD, not her FIRST. If she keeps this ability going, she will indeed be a driving force in the music industry.
Here are my personal impressions of each track: Track 1 is acoustic quitar-based with amazingly passionate vocals that is the perfect choice with which to open the CD...probably my favorite track of all (which is hard to say, because there are so many to love on this release...). Track 2 is a gorgeous ballad. Track 3 is slightly R&B and not a notable favorite, but it does contain some really sweet vocals from Vincy. Track 4 is a soaringly elegant ballad. Track 5 is a lovely piano ballad intro that melds into excellently orchestrated sounds with a perfect melody. Track 6 is extremely R&B and up-tempo with some almost hip-hop type scratching sound effect in the background...it has a cute beat, but it's definitely my absolute only not-liked song on this release. Track 7 is a simple nice ballad. Track 8 is a violin-based ballad that is quite moving in it's loveliness. Track 9 is another acoustic quitar-based song with catchy mid-tempo rythmn and she sounds happy to be singing it, which makes it a fun song. Track 10 is a magical ballad. Track 11 is a Mandarin re-do of track 5 and it's just as nice as the track 5 version. Track 12 is all in English, and while her pronounciation is perfect and well-enunciated...whoever wrote the song made some rather substantial grammar mistakes...but I found the one song in English refreshing and I also liked that she obviously put a lot of effort in getting the accent so nicely done. Track 13 is mostly her talking in time to the music, with a bit of singing...it sounds as though she's discussing her musical journey and giving credits to her choir and such (but since I don't speak Cantonese, I can only guess as to content...)...it's a nice ending to the CD, but I doubt it could stand alone as a single release.
My favorite tracks are 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12.
Overall, I recommend this to any and everyone who respects well-done music and pristine vocals of a natural professional. I sincerely hope that Vincy will continue recording, because she really and truly is a gem and a polished success even after only one CD recorded thus far. Honestly: this is one of the best quality and vocals of recent CDs I have heard in quite some time.
I am eagerly awaiting to have time to watch the videos...but after the presentation of such a masterful CD, I'm sure the videos (and by the way...I LOVE artists who include lots of videos with their CDs...) will be creative and imaginative. Besides, they will be another way to enjoy Vincy, because the CD alone leaves the listener wanting more. I also think (without having seen the DVD yet...) that based on the track listing of the DVD, she seems to have picked some of her absolute best songs off the CD to include as videos...I personally would have made the same choices as the 5 she chose to include (although I might have added a 6th and produced a video from track 9 on the CD...).
Oh, the packaging isn't standard...but it is very elegant and sophistated. I like the linen cover to the book-like format, although the little paper pouches holding the CD and DVD aren't the most secure or long-lasting. Still, as far as non-standard (meaning non-jewelcase...) packaging goes, this is the best I've seen and looks quite classy.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
6 people found the following helpful
August 7, 2006 Kym...When I recently ordered Kym's new CD "Unbelievable", I realized I hadn't ever written a review for this CD + DVD "Air".
Kym is wonderful. Her looks, her acting (in the videos), her interpretation, and most importantly: her vocal abiliity. She has a sweet and serene voice, but while it may not be one of the most powerful in the music industry...it's well-trained and talented.
One song on here (track 2) is pop up-tempo...and my favorite of all...even the video for it is one of the best on the DVD... One song on here (I forgot the track number momentarily...) is total hip-hop...and my least favorite of all...it sticks out as the only blight on this otherwise perfect CD and ruins the cohesive flow of the music because it's right smack in the middle of the CD...(which is why I rate this a 9-out-of-10 and not a full 10...). All the other songs are ballads that are masterfully done and never get boring, because Kym infuses her sense of style and meaning into each one as it deserves.
As for the DVD, it's clear and well-produced with video #2 and video #5 being the most creative and fun to watch. The others are nice too...like little movies that are portrayed quite well.
Overall, I loved this CD + DVD (even if I do always have to skip that hip-hop track...and it's right in the middle too...) and I think Kym can be a contender for ballads alongside Gigi Leung, Stefanie Sun YanZi, Fiona Sit and others. She is definitely not as recognized as I personally feel she should be. I urge anyone who likes mostly pop ballads to try Kym. And her price for the music + videos is very economical, so there really isn't any reason not to listen. I think she can surprise a lot of people with her breath of fresh "Air".
Oh, I must admit you will be thoroughly sick of the cell-phone maker Nokia by the end of this though. Obviously, Nokia is a big sponsor for her and throughout the lyric book are blatant and repeated features for the phone (it's also featured in one of the videos...). But, it's a small solicitation price to pay for the beauty and wonder of Kym. (And after all, she's not the only singer to endorse products in her music or videos...Ella Kwan has a GREAT music video that showcases Clairol's Herbal Essences hair products on her "Ellacadabra" CD...).Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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8 people found the following helpful
August 1, 2006 "Grown Up" shows the growth...I am SO DELIGHTED that after the mess of "Look" released last year (or at least, I thought it was a mess...I didn't like one thing about that CD/VCD at all...even though I know she was trying something new: why do something new when the old is so ideal...) Gigi has returned to her more signature sounds of well-orchestrated pop ballads. I think her vocals on this release show that she is definitely singing in the correct genre for her, because she simply shines throughout the entire CD of "Grown Up". I love how her voice is so powerful, yet refined and pure at the same time. She has true and rare control over her vocals that some artists can only dream of having. And she knows how to intrepret a song through her comprehension of her own ability as a phenomenal singer. I found this to be an outstanding CD...and very comparable to the beauty and majesty of "Enté-Tain". Certainly, I would recommend "Grown Up" to all pop fans who adore the trademark Gigi Leung style.
Track 1 is a lovely and touching Gigi-esque ballad that is my second favorite on the release (there is an MV of this track); Track 2 is a bit on the R&B side in the beginning, but has an intriquing orchestra and stunningly powerful vocals; Track 3 is a moody piano ballad that is both relaxing and mesmerizing (there is an MV of this track); Track 4 is bouncy and fun, mid-tempo and sunny with fresh vocals (there is an MV of this track); Track 5 is an elegant ballad with impressive vocals; Track 6 is a bit "theme park" in sound, but the vocals serve to make it a memorable song and save it from being totally cliché; Track 7 is my absolute favorite on the entire CD and features great guitar with sweet vocals...it's simple and yet perfect; Track 8 has a bit of a too-traditional intro (woodwinds, chimes, birds, water, children...) and even later into the song, the lyrics just can't save this song from being my least favorite on the CD and I usually skip this entirely; Track 9 is standard Gigi with a plain sound on the verses and a magnificently orchestrated refrain (this is my 3rd favorite track on the CD); Track 10 finishes the release with a piano ballad that features serene vocals and a signature smooth sound (there is an MV of this track).
As for the MVs themselves, I didn't find the first 3 very impressive (not bad, but rather standard stuff...). However, the 4th MV was creatively done with computer-generated backgrounds that made the MV intoxicating and quite interesting to watch while still keeping the feel of the song in the forefront.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Constellation (Japan Version)
Constellation (Japan Version)
(1)Our Price: US$18.25Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:7 people found the following helpful
August 1, 2006 10 stars is not enough...Oh my gosh. I thought that "Secret Code" by Aya was totally perfect (and it is...), but "Constellation" is even better. So, what do I call that? Divine? Inspired? Ideal? I don't know, but this is a gem of a mini-album. I cannot believe I missed ordering this back in 2005 when it was released. But, after hearing "Secret Code", I went back and bought both of Aya's 2005 mini-albums (although I won't review "Rock On", because frankly...it's far from being anything as fantastic as "Secret Code" and "Constellation"...it's actually NOT even remotely a favorite of mine with the dark lyrics and disjointed song choices...). I am so pleased to have done so.
"Constellation" is definitely different from "Secret Code" in both style (although still rock, it's not as gritty and grinding, and contains more of a pop-rock tone throughout...even to the inclusion of a ballad) and especially her voice. Her vocals are higher and purer without her trademark growl. It's a sure thing she knows how to sing to reflect her music. On the gritty rock songs on "Secret Code" she really defines the song by using her powerful almost gutteral vocal sound...but on the more pop-rock songs on "Constellation" she defines the song by using a more pristine and youthful sound. This shows her flawless interpretation and an understanding of how to truly convey music.
I honestly cannot say enough about this CD. It's already replaced "Secret Code" as my favorite Aya CD (although both should be bought by the true fan, because both represent Aya at her best in slightly different forms and both deserve to be appreciated as the masterpieces they each are in their own way...).
Track 1 is simply phenomenal (reminds me most of Ai Takaoka...) and is my favorite track of the release; Track 2 is just great (reminds me most of Nakamori BAND...); Track 3 is a rare Aya power-rock ballad that shows YES...she can sing slow-tempo songs perfectly also; Track 4 is a mid-tempo excellent track with some of the best vocal moments by Aya of all...it's a pure sound with her shining singing and lots of guitar as the main instrument. This is my second favorite of the CD; Track 5 is also mid-tempo and is quite good and showcases more delightful vocals and a sweet sound to Aya; Track 6 is a catchy more up-tempo song (reminds me most of Younha...) with a powerhouse beat and marvelous refrain; Track 7 is the most like songs on "Secret Code" because it's definitely beginning to show the grinding rock and grittier vocals of Aya.
Sadly, there are only the 7 tracks...but that's enough. This jewel is sheer genius as it is and I recommend it to everyone. Even pop-lovers I think would like this, because the rock isn't over-done or too intense. It's just a simple and crystalized piece of heaven. The price is even right...so don't wait...if you are thinking of investing in Aya's music, I think you really should buy this along with "Secret Code". It makes the Aya experience truly well-rounded and complete. She's just SUCH a wonderful talent with amazing ability.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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Kaze no Kessho (Normal Edition)(Japan Version)
Kaze no Kessho (Normal Edition)(Japan Version)
(2)Our Price: US$33.99Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:6 people found the following helpful
August 1, 2006 True Talent...WOW. I hesitated originally to purchase this CD because I had never heard of this group, but YesAsia was kind enough to send me the link to their official website through Victor Entertainment where I could hear 30-second song clips. I was blown away by the talent that I heard in just those few seconds. I knew I had to try the actual CD after all.
And I am SO GLAD that I did. The actual CD is so much more refined than what you can hear online, and the overall production is superb and crisp. Every track is crystal-clear and defined. And every track brings a sense of the band's unique sound. The lead singer (female) vocally reminds me a bit of a cross between Aiko and Kokia...but the music is truly their hallmark.
This CD remains totally cohesive even though it takes the listener through pop tracks and rock tracks. All the songs are sunny and fun...a delight to listen to, especially on a warm summer day.
I won't list thoughts on each track because this is a long release of 14 songs, but none deserve to be skipped (except maybe the Prologue...) and all shine on their own or as a whole CD. I think my favorite track is "Butterfly" because it actually makes the listener feel as though they could fly also. Very beautiful.
This CD, I highly recommend to those who like well-done cultured pop and also the heavier rock. Savage Genius has produced a work of mastery that seamlessly blends the 2 genres in a way that makes sense and never gets boring or sounds disjointed. Even when one song is pop and the next is rock...the music and pristine vocals of the lead singer meld the songs into a single work of perfection.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Secret Code (Japan Version)
5 people found the following helpful
July 20, 2006 WOW...This is an amazing CD by an amazing singer/songwriter (Aya wrote almost all the tracks and also produced the release herself...). I was not expecting something so extraordinary from a singer I'd never heard before (although, now I am going back and buying her two previous mini-albums that are available...I urge others to do the same, because once you listen to this artist you will never be able to get enough). Aya reminds me vocally (and on most songs...musically also...) of Western singers Ashlee Simpson and Gretchen Wilson with her distinctive gutteral sound as she really growls out the songs. It's easy to see she's passionate about her singing. On one or two tracks that are a bit more mellow (but still definitely rock songs...) she even sounds a bit like Nakamori BAND and Ai Takaoka. For those who listen to music from Canada, Aya also has several songs that remind me of the songs by Marie Mai on her debut French-language CD.
As of the time I write this review, there is no track listing, so I will list them as best I am able... #1 Communication Break #2 Pierrot #3 in japanese #4 Secret Code #5 Bounce Bounce Bounce #6 in japanese #7 in japanese #8 I Sing This Song For You #9 in japanese #10 Believe in You #11 Can't Stop Falling in Love #12 Changing the World #13 in japanese.
While I love each song on this CD (the only song that didn't totally blow me away with it's perfection was track #6...it is rock, but had some hip-hop type scratching sound effects that I felt were a little out of place...), my favorites would have to be tracks #7, #9 and #12 for Top Three.
If you like great and grinding rock sung by a true and unique talent...you will adore Aya Kamiki. I've left her CD in my CD player from the moment it arrived and I doubt it will leave anytime soon (at least not until her 2 mini-albums "Constellation" and "Rock On" arrive...). I highly recommend this to those who enjoy Younha (or Yunna...), Nakamori BAND, Rie Fu, Ai Takaoka, Core of Soul, Yui and others with a rock edge to their pop. Aya is more gritty than the singers I just listed, but at least that will help people know potentially what fan base her music and awesome vocals will probably appeal to. I know I am a fan of all those singers, and especially now of Aya Kamiki. She really is a brand-new favorite of mine, and I hope others will soon be buying her CD and saying the same wonderful things. Truly, this is an exceptional release of exquisitely produced, written and sung songs.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
8 people found the following helpful
July 19, 2006 Potential is MET...I bought Michelle & Vickie's debut CD back in 2004 and loved their harmonies (unlike a lot of bands where the singers sing together...these girls harmonize with the best in the business...), but found their vocals a bit weak and the songs a bit too juvenile in nature and in musical style. I then bought their second CD and actually gave it away to my husband's oldest daughter (she's 9 years old, and loves it...) because it was just NOT what I would have listened to on a regular basis. The songs were sappy-sweet and the bubble-gum pop just wasn't where I was hoping Michelle and Vickie would go based on their inate talent and ability.
But THIS CD is perfect...well, not perfect (I hate tracks 5 & 6...5 sounds like an old-fashioned R&B lounge and 6 honestly sounds like the music played in theme parks like Busch Gardens...), but VERY close to perfection and definitely living up to their potential.
Vocally, the girls are stronger and more confident. The songs are more mature and brilliantly sung. Michelle wrote over half of the tracks (mostly the ballads...) and it shows in her loving interpretation of those songs.
I LOVE the almost-rock feel to several of the tracks (like tracks 1 & 7, which are also 2 of my favorites on the CD...) and even almost all of the ballads have a powerful element to them that was always lacking before.
The overall pop essence has evolved into a more grown-up and market-grabbing style of pop/rock with strong and meaningful ballads. In short: the girls grew up. I think it's wonderful they evolved and found themselves relatively early in their careers (this being only CD number 3...). It shows they know what they are about and are not afraid to change a little for the better. The harmonies are just as pure and touching as ever, but they have added some spice to keep things interesting and show that undeniable potential. The ONLY thing I would have wanted more in this stellar release would have been better packaging and MVs. I bet these girls have excellent stage presence and I'd like to see that. They seem very personable and likeable. I am eager to see them keep up with their phenomenal evolution. Oh, and YES...I recommend this to anyone and everyone. It's produced well and sung well. If you found their vocals shining, but their musical style lacking on earlier releases: try this. It's a change, but one that was needed and will hopefully make a true name for these two delightful girls!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
6 people found the following helpful
July 5, 2006 Totally, Absolutely Perfect...WOW. Let me say it again: WOW. I knew Rebecca had a solid and talented voice from her first CD "Be Myself"...but she has really refined both that stellar voice and her musical choices. Unlike "Be Myself" that was a mix of styles and genres (and I think quite a few people were a little confused with the some songs rock, some songs hip-hop/rap, some songs religious, some songs ballads...), this release is completely cohesive in both modern style and contemporary genre. It's a giant switch for Rebecca and one that I for one am delighted she made. 90% of this release are ballads, with the few mid-to-up-tempo tracks being in the same general relaxed style and simple genre. And my biggest thrill: NO HIP-HOP or RAP at all on here. Of course, the single drawback is there are no true rock tracks on here either. But that is a small price to pay for the cohesive and fluid release that is "No More Cry".
Oh, and as I discuss my thoughts on the tracks...keep in mind that this website has them somewhat out of order here (for example: the first track listed here is actually the second on the real life CD...), and I will be addressing them as they appear on the actual item.
Track 1 is a beautiful power ballad that instantly will remind anyone of why they loved Rebecca's voice so much. Track 2 is a soft and sweet piano ballad. Track 3 is a mid-tempo almost-rock intro that leads into a gorgeous song where her vocals absolutely shine. Track 4 begins with heavy drums, then melds into a moving song with romantic guitar and passionate vocals. Track 5 is a mellow piano ballad. Track 6 is a catchy mid-tempo guitar song that is light and summery; very relaxing. Track 7 is an airy and majestic ballad with soaring emotional vocals. Track 8 begins with an up-tempo intro with lots of instrumentalization that melds into an excellent power ballad. Track 9 has catchy guitar with a fabulous melody that has a magical mid-tempo flow. Track 10 is a duet (unknown other singer) that is actually a bit boring and not Rebecca's best vocals. Track 11 is a re-do of track 2, but I think track 2 is better because this version is a bit more on the R&B side...but not so much that it detracts from the general contemporary and modern feel to the entire CD. Track 12 is extremely unique and hypnotic with a rock chorus to finish off a magnificent release.
I'd have to say that while no song on this CD needs to be skipped, my favorites are tracks 3, 9, and 12 and my least favorite is either track 10 or 11.
So, if you loved the sound of Rebecca Hsu and saw her bright potential on "Be Myself"...but like me, did not care for the hip-hop/rap that detracted from her overall powerful, yet subdued style: this is for you. I highly recommend it as one of the best and most stylistically sound releases of 2006. Even the packaging and photos are gorgeous. I can't say enough wonderful things about "No More Cry". You just have to hear it and be in awe with her ability for yourself.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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Persona (Japan Version)
Persona (Japan Version)
(1)Our Price: US$23.49Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:3 people found the following helpful
July 5, 2006 Excellent Eri...It's been a long wait for me since Eri Takenaka's first EP back in 2004. I fell in love with her then and was nothing less than thrilled to receive "Persona" the other day. It's so nice to have 13 tracks by her instead of the 6 that were on her earlier EP. And for the price...WOW. It's a bargain. Her voice is so rich and charming...but her style is what makes her so unique to me. She uses so much simple acoustic guitar (and writes her own songs), that her clear vocals really shine. I was totally blown away on tracks 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8. I thought that tracks 3, 5 and 9 weren't up to her standard set by most of her music...they were all a bit caberet and just not stylistically cohesive to the rest. But overall, this is a stellar release by a fabulously talented artist. I hope she doesn't make me wait another 2 years between releases. I highly recommend this. Oh, and for those who got the impression from her first EP that she's only a mellow ballad singer...this release shows her stepping out into some more up-tempo tracks (especially the phenomenal tracks 1, 2 and 6 which are up-tempo...but still very much in keeping with Eri's style and ability range). Check it out and I bet you'll love it too! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Rammie Guo (Limited Edition)
Rammie Guo (Limited Edition)
(4)Our Price: US$15.99Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:7 people found the following helpful
June 15, 2006 Debut...Well, I won't spend much time discussing the packaging since this is about the music/artist...but suffice it to say this was one of the oddest packaged CDs I've ever received. The photo/lyric book was gigantic (about 8x10 inches in size) and the photos were poor quality and not even in focus. My disc was scratched (still plays though) because the flimsy little pocket holding it wasn't secure enough. Hopefully, next time, the manufacturer will try a more standarized and safe packaging method.
Rammie herself seems quite talented with true ability and her voice definitely shows potential. I also think her music and vocals were pretty ordinary. Nothing on this really stood out to me as amazing or totally unique. It's a nice debut, but I think she will definitely shine brighter and be more at ease on her next release. She certainly has some songs that are much better than others vocally, but that's to be expected...especially from a new-comer.
I think she should have left off the Mandarin versions of her songs (tracks 8-11), not because her Mandarin is bad or the songs sound the same...but because she tried too hard to make them sound DIFFERENT from the Cantonese versions, and she should have left a good thing alone. I much prefer the Cantonese versions and think they suit her better...musically and vocally.
Track 1 is a gorgeous ballad...Track 2 is a pulsing pop song that is bordering on rock...Track 3 is an R&B ballad...Track 4 is a nice moving ballad that flows wonderfully...Track 5 is a lovely passionate ballad...Track 6 is a "darker" ballad...Track 7 is a serene ballad...Track 8 is a re-do and totally turned hip-hop/rap, which I think was a HUGE mistake with regard to consistancy and flow of the release...Track 9 is a re-do and still R&B, but more catchy than the other R&B song...Track 10 is a re-do and a nice ballad...Track 11 is a re-do and an R&B ballad.
Over-all, I loved tracks 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10...I thought tracks 3, 9, and 11 were alright...and I downright disliked track 8.
I'd recommend Rammie, but I'd also tell whoever I was recommending her to that the polish and strength found in some other artists (even some other NEW artists) isn't quite there yet with Rammie. She's pleasant though, and I'm sure we'll be seeing improvement and much more of her in the future. I will buy her next release, because I have faith in her even if this particular CD didn't totally blow me away.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Like Joey 3 (New + Best Selection) Karaoke DVD
Like Joey 3 (New + Best Selection) Karaoke DVD DVD Region All
(6)Our Price: US$23.49Related promotions:5 people found the following helpful
June 11, 2006 Phenomenal DVD...WOW...was I impressed with this DVD from Joey. I've known for years that I like her vocally...but now I also know I like her visually. She's great at interpreting the songs and acting on the lyrics or emotions within them to convey even the slightest nuances of her songs. She's beautiful, too, of course. One thing I like best about the DVD, however, isn't the actual footage or song selections. I LOVE that there is a choice between watching the videos as plain music videos OR as karaoke music videos. It's so rare to find a music video DVD that allows that option (examples: Jasmine Leong's "Silk Road of Love" has the option, but Penny Tai's "So Penny" does not...you MUST watch the videos with the lyrics in huge characters across the screen, which is distracting if you are NOT planning to sing karaoke). I hope more companies and producers realize this feature is probably an excellent selling point and begin to offer the choice on more DVDs of music videos. I also like that there is a main menu and you can either play the entire thing OR go right to a specific track. Over-all, between the high quality of production and the excellence of Joey Yung's singing/presence...you cannot go wrong with owning this DVD. I'm extremely pleased with it and would recommend it to anyone. My favorite tracks are 1-10 and especially those videos that came on Joey's "Give Love a Break" CD+DVD a few years ago. It was nice that she included all 5 that were previously on the earlier DVD, because then I was able to pass that DVD of 5 songs to a friend who know LOVES Joey. It's always nice to have something so well-done that it brings more fans to both the artist and the entire Chinese music industry. Very nice indeed. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
sympathy (Normal Edition)(Japan Version)
sympathy (Normal Edition)(Japan Version)
(1)Our Price: US$34.25Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:5 people found the following helpful
June 11, 2006 Debut Heaven...If you want to make it big in music...this is the kind of debut you need to release. A CD that contains a little bit of something for everyone, but is still cohesive enough to flow well and define you as an artist. I think that she has done that. While I don't personally care for the anime-type versions some of the songs remind me of (I prefer a more rock vocalist)...I think that is only part of the CD. There are more pop songs, more rock songs and the rest kind of fall into anime-land. I have to say, that this singer has definitely gotten off onto the correct footing and will unquestionably remain in the fore-front of current Japanese music for quite some time. She seems to really have herself together for one so young and has accomplished great feats already. I have favorites on this CD, but basically, I do wish she'd turn more away from the anime now that she has made a full-fledged solo artist debut. I think her voice is phenomenal and she can shed that skin to produce the rock music that is in her soul. In fact, on some songs...you almost hear her straining to be rock, but the music holds her more into anime. Hopefully, now that she has made her entry, she can soar into the talent she is meant to be. I wish her the best, and at her age...she has time to BE the best. Or at least one of them, anyway! This is something I would recommend more for a specific following than mass audiences. But there is nothing wrong with having a "niche". And she is amazing to have found it so early! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Suh Young Eun Vol. 6 - Be my sweet heart
Suh Young Eun Vol. 6 - Be my sweet heart
(5)Our Price: US$13.99List: US$18.99Save: US$5.00 (26%)Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:6 people found the following helpful
June 11, 2006 Lovely all around; But...This artist is one of my few Korean artists that I pre-order every time. And I am never dissapointed in her. I first fell in love with the pop in "Gift", then continued that love with her next CD. This one, though, is a bit more jazz-influenced than I prefer. I agree her vocals are better than ever...and she's just as adorable as ever...but, the music just wasn't to my personal taste. I still rate her high, however, because while I feel that her foray into jazz isn't her best style, I think her talent remains regardless. I think my favorite CD by her was the one immediately preceeding this one (forgive me for forgetting the title at the moment...) because it was more raw and alternative (but still mellow...because that is just what she does). I felt that release was more poignant and gritty than this one was. I also agree with another reviewer that having this site list a genre would be nice. BUT: having said that, it would be hard I think to necessarily pen some of these artists down. Yes, some do nothing but dance, some nothing but pop...but a lot of artists (Korean, Japanese and Chinese) mix things up from CD to CD and even within CDs...so there might not be an entire album "genre". Plus, with so many countries buying, there might be a cultural divide with genre. While some countries might consider a singer "rock" others would think "pop"...and I personally know from being a long-time buyer here that "rap" can have about 5 different intrepretations and styles. Bottom line though...this is a bit of a change for this artist, but she's still amazing. I'm not really a jazz person, but as a true and devoted fan of the singer...I feel it important to collect all of her CDs because they are all excellent in any genre. Also, I think I would call her "mellow", but she's not boring. Each song has it's own unique flare and I like that the artist has taken the time to really attempt to re-invent herself on each release. She doesn't always play it safe...she experiments, but still retains deep fans. That should say it all. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
5 people found the following helpful
June 11, 2006 WOW...True talent here! Xiao Xiao has totally surpassed even her earlier efforts to create this masterpiece of music and vocalization. Her voice is pure delight and the music is current...but not too trendy. I think she's marketable to any age-market and even any style-market. Seriously. She's just great. My favorite track is actually the English one (which is rare on my Chinese CDs...) "Clumsy". She does reprise the same song on track 11 in Mandarin, but I actually enjoyed the English better. Her interpretation of her songs is amazing and her total devotion to music shines through. I love the expressiveness and also the inventiveness of her unique lyrics. She's not standard, so if you would like to try something special...I recommend this CD immensely. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
7 people found the following helpful
June 7, 2006 The Ultimate 2R Collection...This is great for people who have only heard a little bit of music by 2R (like me) and might not own all their works (I only have "Revolution", and I admit I wasn't totally blown away by that release). With this purchase, you get the best of 2R in one place AND a DVD of some fabulous music videos. I really like this because I haven't heard the more ballad-type songs 2R used to sing, and I am really impressed. Granted, I like the up-tempo songs too, but I really think this is a pleasant mix of old and new. In fact, it is so well-produced, I wouldn't be able to tell you what was old and what was new...it's very seamless. I only wish that ALL the songs had music videos (or at least tracks 7, 9, 10, 12 and 13...I love those songs, but they have no music videos for them). My top 3 tracks are all in the same general place (which is nice) and they are tracks 11, 12, and 13. My bottom 3 tracks are 5, 14, and 15. But even though tracks 14 and 15 are on the DVD, at least they are the last two on it, so I can skip them easily. I would prefer to have something more like 7 or 9 on the DVD than 14 and 15. But, I guess they had to compile the DVD with videos they already had done. Anyway, this is quite pleasant and I found it refreshing. It actually has me more interested in 2R now that I know they can do more than what they did on "Revolution". I would recommend buying this...especially if you don't have all their CDs already. Even if you do, to have 16 tracks plus a DVD all in one ultimate compilation...this is a great purchase. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Wo Yao De Wei Lai (CD+DVD) (China Version)
Wo Yao De Wei Lai (CD+DVD) (China Version) DVD Region All
(2)Our Price: US$8.49Usually ships within 21 daysRelated promotions:3 people found the following helpful
June 7, 2006 You MUST Hear This...Although I'm not really sure why this website lists this under the MV/Karaoke section (I will write and ask them...), I highly recommend this CD+DVD release. It has 10 songs and 4 MVs and one of the most gorgeous photo/lyric booklets I think I have ever seen. It's a beautiful singer in a beautiful package with a beautiful voice. If you like other more-known singers like Cheer Chen...you will adore this.
About the CD portion: Track 1 first introduces you to the artist's pristine and wonderful voice with a lovely song that has the ocean waves crashing in the background. There is an MV for this. Track 2 is one of the prettiest songs I have ever heard and the vocals are truly in a league of their own. This ranks among my favorite tracks. Track 3 is the only song on here that totally does NOT fit with the rest of the release. It's all hip-hop with some annoying guy rapping in English throughout almost the entire song. It's just bad (thank God there is no MV for this). Track 4 is quite simply and exquistely beautiful. There is an MV for this, which is great because it's probably my favorite track of the CD. Track 5 is lovely and serene and make me think of Cheer Chen the whole way through. There is no MV though. Track 6 is the first (if you don't count or play the horrible rap song...) up-tempo song and it's fun. Very summery with an almost rock beat to it. It has an MV for it. Track 7 is slightly caberet and shows the weakest vocal moments. No MV for this, but that's OK, because the song isn't the best of the bunch. Track 8 has stunning quitar and is another almost rock song that is magical. I truly wish there was an MV for this track, because it is phenomenal. Track 9 is lounge-type music and almost disco in places. But it has a nicely done English refrain and her pronounciation is flawless and tastefully done. There is no MV, but again...this isn't my favorite track anyway. Track 10 is another that reminds me of the peacefulness of Cheer Chen with a very hypnotic and surreal ballad. There is an MV for this track, thank goodness because it is a really nice song that will have anyone in love with it and the singer.
About the DVD portion: DVD track 1 is CD track 6...a great and fun song, which is probably why the singer chose to shoot the video in a theme park. Not the most creative video, but as I said...it IS summery and just plain fun to hear and see. DVD track 2 is CD track 4...and it is gorgeous. Beautiful footage of the singer and nicely put together. DVD track 3 is CD track 1...it's nice, but mostly just the singer standing with the ocean in the background as she stands and sings the song. I think I prefer this one on audio than video. DVD track 4 is CD track 10...and it is beautiful beyond words. It has the most creative footage and gorgeous shots of the singer. Totally wonderful to hear AND see.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Fantasy (Special Edition) (CD+DVD)
7 people found the following helpful
June 1, 2006 This is what "GROWTH" means...WOW. I know THIS edition isn't out yet, but I am eager for the music videos. I confess I already own the "Red" edition...but that was because I couldn't wait to see if there would be a DVD version and also because I have a cousin who would be DELIGHTED to take the CD-only version because it's so nice. Anyway, Stephy has really, really worked on this release. Her vocals have dramatically improved and sound more mature and strong. She sounds much more sure of herself on this release as opposed to her first "Coloring" CD. As with any release by any artist, there are bad, OK and great tracks. Personally, I LOVED tracks 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10...I liked tracks 5, 11, and 12...I did not like at all track 4. Since most her songs (and my favorites) tend to be piano-based or guitar-based ballads, I will focus on her new genres. Track 4 is caberet and just dull. Track 5 has a 50s style to the music, but it's OK. Track 6 is almost latin in nature, but I like it a lot. Track 9 is extremely retro in beat, but I like it too because it is extremely unique. Track 11 uses a lot of traditional instruments like woodwinds, but it's still quite caberet and not nearly the best song on the release. Track 12 is a duet, but I actually prefer the solo version even though the duet is very romantic. Over-all, I think Stephy has met expectations with this release in her growth and effort. She really took the time to put forth a lot of ability into this CD and I cannot wait to re-purchase this item to obtain the DVD. For anyone wondering if I recommend this: well, I wouldn't buy it twice to only get 4 MVs (1 is just the duet version of another...not really 5 MVs...) if I didn't! This admirable and I encourage anyone who found Stephy's vocals weak or her songs simply "re-done" on her debut to definitely listen to this CD. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
First Scene - Sayuri Iwata 1st Visual Collection (Japan Version)
First Scene - Sayuri Iwata 1st Visual Collection (Japan Version) DVD Region 2
(1)Our Price: US$32.49Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:6 people found the following helpful
May 28, 2006 ABOVE THE MARK...As with my opinion of Jun Shibata's video DVD...this is phenomenal. Lovely inside and out, this artist shines. Her vocals are rich and pure, but also innocent and whimsical. Her videos are well-produced and thought-out. I also like the amount of content: 6 songs, 6 live versions of the same songs and also a promotional movie! There is so much here to love, I would recommend it to any j-pop fan out there who likes the more mellow side of pop. Not boring, but consistant. Over-all...everything I own of this artist is excellent, but I especially enjoy the DVD. That way, you can SEE and HEAR her. It's a little piece of heaven and I think it's wonderful. She reminds me of some other singers vocally, but visually...she is a star of her own. She is unique and personable. I think she seems humble in her immense talent and well aware of where her biggest strengths are. A real ability. Watch and be impressed! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
5 people found the following helpful
May 24, 2006 What an amazing voice...I had never heard of this singer before and took a chance on her CD. It's really beautiful. It's not always stylistically cohesive, but her vocals are worth every penny. The moment she opened her mouth I fell instantly in love with her sound. WOW. On some of her songs she reminds me a little of Melody Chiang and A-Sun. Especially track 9 "Hey Boy" which really had me thinking of Melody's "I'm OK" song...they are very similiar in style. The first two tracks on this, along with track 9 are the absolute stand-outs and most consistant. Some songs I liked more than others for their musical style. For example: I loved tracks 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, and 10...I liked tracks 3 and 6...I didn't really like at all tracks 4 and 5 (4 is too R&B and 5 is too caberet). Over-all, this is an excellent purchase. Her voice will amaze anyone, I think. She's VERY talented and this CD is something to relax to and enjoy the rich, smooth vocals of a rare gem in the sea of over-produced basic pop. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Meeting Love (Lovely Celebration Edition) (CD+DVD) (Limited Edition)
Meeting Love (Lovely Celebration Edition) (CD+DVD) (Limited Edition) DVD Region All
(5)Our Price: US$20.99Related promotions:7 people found the following helpful
May 24, 2006 Thoughts on "Meeting Love"...Well, I don't really know which of Rainie's CDs I prefer (and last time I got the version that didn't come with music videos). I must say, though, that I expected more growth than is shown on this CD. I wonder if the producers are trying to keep Rainie as an eternally young icon. Truth is, she is better than the material she's singing. I find her looks and her vocals to have far more maturity than the music and lyrics. I also admit to preferring her ballads. I think she really shines on them (and the music videos for tracks 2 and 10...DVD tracks 4 and 2 respectively...are stunning in their quality of Rainie's talent and her beauty). Her more hip-hop/juvenile songs (along with the inclusion of stickers and mouse pad...) seem totally geared toward a different market. For some reason, the mix of the two don't work well for my personal taste. For example: track 1 sounds dated, like old 80s music...track 2 is a lovely ballad that is probably one of my favorite songs on the CD...track 3 has some nice guitar, but is a bit R&B in it's mid-tempo style...track 4 is another gorgeous ballad with perhaps the most mature-sounding vocals of the entire CD...track 5 is a stunning piano ballad that really has you expecting more of this style on the CD...track 6 throws in some dissapointment with a beginning of lush slow strings, then bounces into juvenile hip-hop with a totally bland karaoke geared melody that doesn't catch...track 7 shows perhaps the weakest vocals and is also juvenile in nature, but it's got some unique features that I like...track 8 has really strong music (which is what I think her ability deserves) with a nice, mature sound and lovely singing...track 9 is like old 80s style dance music and is just awful in my opinion...track 10 closes the CD with a hypnotic ballad that thankfully has a music video on the DVD to showcase that Rainie is beautiful inside and out. Over-all, I only rated this an 8-out of-10 because I feel the music fell really short of expectations and what it could have been. Rainie herself gets a 10-out of-10 because she is talented and has such a fabulous presence. She seems unpretentious and naturally at ease with both a camera and a microphone. So, I guess my biggest concern for a future CD by her would be that her producers continue with the youthful approach (as opposed to following logic and letting her grow up). Rainie is so much better than what she's had to work with this far...and I wish her the best and feel she deserves the best. To date, I don't think the music is the best at all (with the exception of some truly stand-out tracks). To finish...I loved tracks 2, 4, 5, 8 and 10...I liked tracks 3 and 7...I hated tracks 1, 6, and 9. Even though her vocals are still going to be high-pitched (it's just her voice and it's quite good regardless of key), I'd like to see more grown-up and complex songs (and music videos...2 of the 4 were totally childish, but the other 2 showed she's spectacular at more meaningful grown-up songs and images) from her in the future. I hope she's allowed to do that. She has boundless potential. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
United States - English
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