Reviews written by ~vanessa.anne~

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Destination (Normal Edition)(Japan Version)
7 people found the following helpful
December 8, 2005 WHATEVER YOUR "DESTINATION"...you will want this CD! It's amazing. I'd never heard of this artist before, but I adore her voice and her sound. She may be classified as J-Pop, but personally, I think most of her material on this release leans more toward J-Rock. It's very lush and rich and delightful. I found the opening track to be ideal as an opener (very up-tempo rock) and the ending track ideal as an ender (very unique). As for the content in between...it is a journey to any destination you can think of. Her title is perfect! On some tracks, you can get the sense of other-worldliness, travelling, being lifted, soaring, flying, running, relaxing...so many feelings all encompassed in this 11 track masterpiece. I think her best tracks are the more rock ones (although one favorite is a piano ballad) like tracks 1-6. Track 7 has some odd rythmns and is almost boring...definitely the weak point of the CD. Track 8 is the piano ballad that shines as a stand-out with the more rock feel of the rest of the release. Track 9 uses very traditional instruments and is almost "enka" in style...I didn't really like it, although it does show vocal talent and ability. Track 10 is just boring. Track 11 is a sheer marvel of excellence. When it ends you have to force yourself not to let the whole CD begin again and again. It's that amazing. Actually, she reminds me a bit vocally of Yozuca on her "Soliel Garden" CD from last year. If you liked that one...you'll LOVE this one (YUUKA's English is much better, too)...and vice versa. Even the lyric booklet on this release is goregous. You can't tell from the scan of the cover here, but the title is embossed silver leaf. VERY elegant and stylish. The photos inside are perfectly taken and there are rose petals scattered throughout. All in all...a work of true art from start to finish. Even though a few songs aren't as stellar as the rest, that is common on any CD...there will always be favorites and less liked tracks. However, I would recommend this to anyone who admires a fine tuned voice with wonderful clear arrangements of a J-Rock style of J-Pop. Excellent. I am SO happy I took a chance on this release. I will certainly keep a look-out for more CDs by this artist! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Stroke (Japan Version)
7 people found the following helpful
November 28, 2005 A "STROKE" of Brilliance...WOW. This CD only contains 5 tracks, but what a GEM! I had a feeling from the prominently displayed guitar on the cover that this music would be largely guitar-driven...and it is. Simply amazing. The guitar on this reminds me of the work of American band 10,000 Maniacs (Natalie Merchant), but her VOICE! It's stunning. Her vocals are pure and rich and never drowned out or lost in the lushness of the guitar. I confess, she reminds me a bit of someone, but I can't quite place it at the moment. Not a high voice, but not deep either. A refreshingly pleasant register that *almost* sounds a little like Rie Fu or Kumaki Anri. I tend to prefer higher pitched voices, but this one is 100% ideal for the style of music she sings and being backed by such intense guitar. Just perfection. Even with only 5 tracks, no one would be dissapointed...and it's not a bad price either: so check out this release immediately if you LOVE guitar-driven tracks that are magnificently sung. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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9 people found the following helpful
November 19, 2005 Delightful...This is an excellent CD, and I really enjoy listening to it. Ivana does have a certain something about her singing that is enchanting. I wish this release was longer though...I guess I will now have to purchase her newer CD also! The only thing that has me wondering...track #4 sounds JUST LIKE a song I have heard recently by another artist (I thought it was Stephy Tang, but I checked the tracks, and didn't see the same characters). It's a great song, but every time I hear it, I spend the entire length wondering where I've heard it before...does anyone know? I don't speak Chinese well enough to figure it out on my own. Maybe it only SOUNDS similiar to something else. Her style is a style I tend to buy, so maybe that's it. Regardless, Ivana is an extremely able singer and I hope we continue to see her releasing CD after CD. I know I will buy all of her releases. They are pristine and elegant, yet simple and refined. A wonderful combination. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Chen Hao - The 1st Album (CD+VCD) (Hong Kong Version)
Chen Hao - The 1st Album (CD+VCD) (Hong Kong Version)
(3)Our Price: US$15.99Usually ships within 7 - 14 days6 people found the following helpful
November 19, 2005 It's a nice release...I really love the vocals on this CD...clear and pristine and with remarkable range and ability. There is a mix of musical styles on this release though that makes it not a perfect 10 for me. I tend to prefer more cohesive albums that have one decided style that is used in different ways to express lyrics...not albums that have a relatively random mix of styles. But this CD does have some stand-out tracks. #1, #2, #8, #9, and #10 are all lovely ballads that remind me musically a bit of Jasmine Leong in style. The singer's vocals totally shine in this genre...and I wish she'd kept the album in this tone. But, there are two distinctly R&B tracks (#3 and #7) and even one almost folk-style traditional track (#11). The remaining tracks are all my least favorites, because while the tempo is up...they are not merely up-tempo pop songs...they are mostly electronic-based dance style tracks (#4, #5, and #6). Over-all, I find I like the vocals much better than the music. But I think this is nice for people wishing to experiment with someone new. She's got talent. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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8 people found the following helpful
November 19, 2005 Glorious in every way...This is an elaborately stunning CD. The music (mostly rich piano) enhances the magical and lush vocals of Kaira. She is enchanting and delightful. I love the undescribable tone in her sweet voice...I can't explain it, you simply have to hear her for yourself. The songs are ballads and on the surface might seem mundane...but after listening, you began to get a sense for each song and the emotions behind Kaira's interpretation of each as individual. A pure gem. Even the packaging on this is lovely...I adore the look of the booklet and think it's refinement of style is totally suited to the music it contains. I reccommend this release to anyone who likes meaningful music sung exquistely well. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
9 people found the following helpful
November 11, 2005 Not so "ente' tein"-ing...First, let me say I have always and continue to admire Gigi's strong and clear vocals. Secondly, her ability is not in any doubt with me. However, after the sheer elegance of her last release "[ente' tein]", this one is far from a favorite for me personally. I found this CD to be extremely dis-jointed and un-focused...although I realize that Gigi is trying new things, I am of the old thought "if it isn't broken, why fix it"? I adored the simple, refined style of her previous works...especially the one I mentioned above. For what it's worth, here are my thoughts on THIS release: Track #1...extremely strong vocals and sung VERY well, but I detest rap, so that pretty much ruins any enjoyment from this song for me. Track #2...a lovely piano ballad, but there are some random odd sounds thrown in that make it a bit too distracting to be totally relaxing. Track #3...up-tempo, but extremely R&B in feel, and once again, just not my personal taste. I also don't think this is the best showcase for Gigi's vocals and makes me feel this is her weakest song. Track #4...gorgeous piano ballad, nice guitars and rich, pristine vocals make this the reason I love Gigi's ability. This is my favorite track on the entire release and the sound that keeps me buying her music. Track #5...R&B, relaxing, but not my taste in any way. Gigi sings this song very sweetly though, and that is a testament to her ability to adapt. Track #6...nice, mid-tempo beat with beautiful, shining vocals. This is my third favorite song on this release. Track #7...passionate ballad, stunningly clear vocals and ennunciation with a lush chorus. This is my second favorite song on the CD. Track #8...strong piano with a Latin feel. It's OK, but very different. Track #9...peaceful piano ballad and shows the traditional soaring vocals of Gigi that we all have come to know and expect from her. Track #10...too many "extra" sound effects in this, but over-all, it's bouncy and quite fun. It's extremely unique and nice to hear Gigi having a good time with her music. I must say that the only "faults" I find with this release are sheer personal preference: I simply do not like any rap or R&B. So, while the talent of Gigi is stellar as ever, I doubt I will play this CD very often. The lyric booklet on this release is outstanding, by the way. But the refined photos don't seem to fit the more urban, ecclectic feel of the music. Still, the pictures are glossy and rich, which is a nice touch. I am unable to play the DVD, so I cannot speak for it's content. I give this an 8-out-of-10 stars, not because I don't care for most of the style on this (after all, Gigi is wonderful, it's just me that doesn't care for much of the "new" things she's attempting), but because, as I mentioned way back in the beginning: I do feel this is not a very cohesive release and it has no real "flow" like most of her prior works. Hopefully her next CD will be more distinct and not as random in style and content as this one. All in all, I will continue to support and buy Gigi's music despite my less-than-enthusiatic reaction to this one particular release. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
8 people found the following helpful
November 1, 2005 Not a value...more an investment...With only 4 "real" tracks, this CD should be classified as a single and/or have a much lower price. Her earlier CD "Dreams Come True" is only $9.99 USD due to it only containing 7 tracks. I think the main issue (for me) with THIS release is the amount of actual music it contains. I have been amazed lately at all the singers (Isabella Leong, this one, Bo Bo Chan, etc) that keep producing such short (number of tracks) CDs! Especially when the ability is there. But, I blame the RECORD COMPANY not the artist. They rush to get these CDs out, and don't allow the time needed for a full 10-12 track release that most people have come to expect as "standard". However, the SINGER should be judged on merit, not what her producers are doing to her (although, I hope she will change companies and we will see a new FULL LENGTH CD by this singer soon). According to me? Delightful songs + easy to understand lyrics + excellent singer = wonderful (but FAR too short) CD. So, if you are looking for value...this isn't it. The price is simply too high for the amount of material. But if you are a fan and choose to invest in this artist's works...this IS it. In the meantime, I do recommend her earlier release to really get to know this artist...4 tracks is not enough to really judge her or her relaxed, sweet style. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
7 people found the following helpful
October 30, 2005 Really great...I was extremely impressed with this CD! I cannot believe that someone on another review for a different release by this artist that she is a terrible singer...she has a LOVELY voice. Very sweet and pure. It's not incredibly strong, but for the sentimental ballads she sings, it's perfect. She stays in her range and at her ability level, and I really enjoy listening to her. I just wish the CD was longer (more songs). For the price on this, you can't go wrong if you like nice, relaxed well-sung ballads. The music is soft, so her voice really comes through as pristine. Her newer CD is even shorter (less songs) than this one...and costs more: so I recommend this one for sure. I also sincerely hope that she has a full (10-12 track) release coming out soon. Seriously, she's really very pleasant and calming. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Sweet Room Number 1 (Japan Version)
4 people found the following helpful
October 28, 2005 NOT A REVIEW: A QUESTION...I was not interested in this group (I tend to prefer solo artists), until I heard the lead singer is Ishikawa Rika...and I LOVE her CD from last year. I think she's great. BUT: I don't know how she'd sound with the other 2 girls. WHERE are people finding song samples on the internet? I see references all the time to people having "listened on-line"...and I have yet to find any site that provides music samples. HELP! And please forgive this for being a question and not a review...and I gave them 5 stars as a "neutral" because I really have heard nothing other than the lead singer's vocals. I really wish people (including myself) would ask YesAsia to provide a message board for members to discuss things like this instead of having to use the review board to do it (I know the review board is not the place for discussion...but then where is?). But perhaps someone can tell me where I can hear samples of some of these songs before I buy. Based on what I know of Ishikawa Rika and the review by SAyaka...I think I would like this release, although I'm not too sure about a song with stringed instruments "like played for a king or queen"...I don't know how that fits into J-Pop...but it might: that's why I'd like to hear it first. I appreciate any and all help. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
7 people found the following helpful
October 27, 2005 Outstanding Debut...I wasn't sure if I was going to like this CD when I ordered it (I'd never heard this artist sing at all) and took a chance on something new. And I'm delighted I did! What a voice... There is something so intriguing about her sound. She reminds me a bit of American singer/piano player Vanessa Carlton in tone and range. Very, very pleasant and gifted. True and rare talent. I absolutely adore this CD with only ONE exception (and honestly...most CDs typically have one track I dislike): Track #1. It begins with a lone piano and soft rythmn, but then some guy starts rapping for basically the entire track. It totally stands out as NOT the style of this CD...I don't have any idea why she put rap onto the song, it was fine without it and it also went better with the rest of the "flow" of the disk. Now: on the to the remaining tracks that are simply outstanding and will take your breath away...especially when you hear her perfect voice singing them. If you like Vanessa Carlton...you will HAVE to own this CD, no doubt about it. Track #2 really sets the mood of "UV Ray" with a guitar rock song containing engaging strong vocals. Track #3 is a lovely hypnotic ballad. Track #4 is a ballad also, but the vocals are so rich and smooth. Track #5 is yet another ballad-to-mid tempo song that is extremely passionate in sound. Track #6 is another solid guitar rock song with a fantastic rythmn. Track #7 has some unique sound effects over excellently played guitar and incredibly sweet vocals. Track #8 is a piano ballad with lush vocals. Track #9 is a stunningly mesmerizing piano ballad with truly shining vocals. Track #10 ends the release with more instruments all together than the other songs (which tend to be either piano or guitar based) and absolutely touching vocals. Over-all...a stellar release. If there wasn't the rap on track #1, I would say this is flawless. But that decision (in my opinion) created a minor discord on an otherwise seamless release. This is a solid jewel and I predict that this singer will have an AMAZING career and I for one, will buy everything she releases! Oh, and for those who note such things: the photo booklet was gorgeous. Tons upon tons of glossy photos of the singer (who is a lovely young lady). Very well put together. I highly recommend this CD to anyone (but if you are like me and not so into rap...just begin this recording on track #2 for pristine listening delight). Wonderful. No one would EVER think this is a debut...it's polished and refined and the singer is everything a singer should be: talented and compelling. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
For Fan - Original Dream (CD+DVD) (Superdream Version)
For Fan - Original Dream (CD+DVD) (Superdream Version) DVD Region All
(10)Our Price: US$21.49Usually ships within 7 - 14 days6 people found the following helpful
October 26, 2005 Call me crazy...Not only is this a FABULOUS collection by FanFan, but I just realized today that I can actually PLAY the DVD! I am so excited. I have gotten used to the fact that Asian DVDs do not play on my American DVD player...so imagine my delight in playing FanFan! I adore her music and watching the videos was an unexpected added bonus. Why, oh, why won't more Chinese artists make their DVDs Region-Free so us Americans can play them? And even better (as if anything can be better than her VOICE and ABILITY)...the DVD contained SIX full songs! Most DVDs that come with my Asian CDs contain about 2-3 songs only. Oh, I am so happy. I have 2 CDs of glorious FanFan music (she is so compelling...) and a DVD I can actually WATCH. It's great. I highly recommend this release and feel 10 stars is NOT ENOUGH for FanFan. WOW. She is NOT all style, but she is SUBSTANCE. She does not rely on sex appeal or good looks, but her rare amazing raw talent. An angel. And: a must-buy. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
BoBo Chan - Phase 1 The Retrospect (2CDs)
7 people found the following helpful
October 15, 2005 Nice...I bought this collection based on "Fantasia" (released 2005 and available here). I never realized how much someone could improve in singing before (frankly, most artists sound the same to me over time...good or bad). This is a nice collection...especially disk 1 with the newer songs (although it is now 2005 and they are still rather old since they are from 2003), but Bo Bo definitely has weaker vocals. The music is nice, but her voice has improved 100% from this selection. Also, the photographer who did the booklet for this needs to be fired. The photos are blurred and not remotely in focus (I am a photographer). Sub-standard photography is a downside to this. Also...breaking up the songs is a downside. I would rather have 1 full-length CD than 2 "mini" CDs. I really think Bo Bo has the talent (shown on "Fantasia"...not so much this release) to do a full album. My question is: why the little 5 track EPs? She is very good and very talented. I wish she'd do more. I will continue to look for her and support her. This is nice to own to round out my Bo Bo collection, but if you are new to this singer...buy "Fantasia". It's far superior to this. Oh...and I think Bo Bo does ballads best. I liked entire disk 1, but on disk 2...her up-tempo songs were not her best. Even on "Fantasia"...I decided her 1 up-tempo song was my least favorite and the 4 ballads were better. But for the money: Bo Bo is worth it! Very nice. And I expect her to continue to improve and grow...she has already shown how she can do it. My praises to Bo Bo for her efforts! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
6 people found the following helpful
October 14, 2005 Not my style...I've been rebuked before for giving low scores to CDs that I personally don't think are good for whatever reason...especially if the main complaint is that the CD is just not MY type of style. But, here I go again, because I just didn't like this. I think the songs are dis-jointed (no flow...I think this is some sort of compilation from the writing on the back by each song where it has the song title and then says "from...") and the voice extremely weak. Some of the music scores are FABULOUS (and the only reason for a 5-of-10 rating by me) and you expect a great song to be laid over the solid foundation of wonderful music and rythmns...but that expectation is never met. The singer has a piercing high voice (and I LIKE high voices...if they are solid, which this one is not) and seems to have trouble keeping the tone of the songs. Track #2 is a stand-out odd song with a totally traditional arrangement and whining at the beginning that not only reminds me of yodeling, but goes on for about 1 minute before the singing starts. This release is not one I would recommend to anyone except a true fan of this particular artist. The funny thing is, I actually think this CD would be BETTER as all instrumental and no singing. It's a combination of modern and pop music super-imposed with a very traditional and folk-style singer...and it simply doesn't work out well. I wish I had never ever bought this. There is so much else out there. Now, I'm sure I will have people pouncing on me for my thoughts and telling me I'm missing something or don't understand something, but please realize: this is MY OPINION based on MY TASTES. And I JUST don't like it. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Go ! Younha (Japan Version)
8 people found the following helpful
October 12, 2005 Worth Every Penny...WOW. That is the first word that will come into anyone's mind the instant they place this CD into their player. Yunna is simply and plainly: PERFECT. Her voice is amazing. I know we all hear different things and make different comparisions, but I don't hear much of Aiko or the others (except Avril) the previous reviewer mentioned. To me, she sounds more like a cross of Ai Takaoka (especially on the full-fledged rock songs) and Kokia (especially on the ballads). Her voice is not as high as Kokia's, but she reminds me of her a bit. I mostly hear Ai Takaoka in Yunna though. But regardless...the point is she has a voice that is very, very appreciated. It's indescribable AND incomparible, actually. I absolutely could not believe her voice when I first heard it. It's THAT amazing. And it's tone, depth...all of it makes Yunna a rare gem. As for the songs: Track #1 is all rock and my favorite track of the entire disk. Perfection all the way. Track #2 has excellent piano and is a nice, if basic, pop song. Track #3 is a ballad, but the rythmn is absolutely wonderful. Track #4 is another ballad, but it's kept simple to focus on THAT VOICE. Truly, Yunna shines in this song. Track #5 has a delightful guitar and the whole song is rich, lush and elegant in feeling. Track #6 is a bit R&B with some bubble-gum pop elements. It's very bouncy and probably the track that least fits the "style" of the CD. Track #7 is another pure rock song and my second favorite of this release (do you see the trend...I think her rock is top-notch and her best genre for her powerhouse vocals). Track #8 is a pop ballad that reminds me a bit of American 80s pop music in style. Track #9 is a catchy and fun pop tune that will have everyone wanting to sing along (assumming you know Japanese...which I unfortunately don't). Track #10 showcases an amazing guitar and some unusual beats that really work well with Yunna's vocals and her ability to change pitch at will. Track #11 features a strong piano and chorus of other singers, and while it is up-tempo and a bit different...it's still general pop. Track #12 has a low-key and mellow piano with a lovely, ethereal arrangement that allows Yunna's vocals to be the show-stopper on this song. Track #13 is another full-fledged rock song that in keeping with my preference for Yunna singing rock is my third favorite song on this CD. But, to make a long story longer: buy this release. You will NOT be dissapointed. And whether you think she sounds more the people the first reviewer described, or the people I described, the main thing I hope you get out of BOTH our reviews is the sheer brilliance of Yunna and the joy of her voice. This CD is an absolute delight and one that I really don't think anyone should let go by without purchasing. Seriously. It's THAT good. And Yunna is THAT awe-inspiring. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
13 people found the following helpful
October 12, 2005 "A Perfect Day" is a Perfect Release...Stefanie is one of those few artists who simply out-does her own self with every release she creates. No matter how wonderful her last recording was...the next in line is even better! This CD is a total masterpiece from beginning to end and I think everyone should try this CD out. There is nothing NOT to love about it. I have been a Stefanie fan for years, and I always fall in love over and over with her solid and strong vocals each and every time I hear her sing. In my mind, she has one of the rarest gifts there is in the music industry: appeal and talent. Track #1 is funky, fun and quite modern. It's excellent and probably my favorite on the entire disk. Track #2 is a ballad with a very traditional intro that melds gently into rich vocals. Track #3 is a lush piano ballad where the feeling of her vocals totally shines. Track #4 is a refreshing mid-tempo interesting song where Stefanie hits some pure high notes...and I'm not used to her singing notes quite that high...but she does it pristinely and perfectly on pitch. Track #5 has an organ introduction with heavy beats and a lot of instruments. It's up-tempo and some of Stefanie's most powerful singing. She also sounds like she had fun recording this song. Track #6 is a very different effect for Stefanie with up-tempo music but rather subdued vocals. I found I didn't care for all the sound effects in this song: giggling, water, birds chirping...it was a little much and over-done. Track #7 is a fluid ballad that is melodic and quite hypnotic. It is my second favorite track on this release. Track #8 has an odd beat and the whole song is sing-songy like a children's song almost. This is my least favorite on the release. Stefanie doesn't even sound like she's enjoying singing it...you can almost tell in her voice she isn't as "into" the song as the other 9. Track #9 has a live opening with a unique up-tempo composition. On this track there is a full chorus and quite a few other singers singing with Stefanie. It's not a favorite, but not bad either. Just very, very different. Track #10 finishes the CD with a typical gorgeous and touching Stefanie ballad. Over-all, this CD is magnificent. The ability Stefanie has and dedicates to her music is obvious. If my opinion counts for anything at all...I highly recommend this and think a full 10 stars is NOT enough credit for this completely ideal CD. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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7 people found the following helpful
October 10, 2005 A Fabulous Adventure: Definitely...This CD is breath-taking! Cheer has created a lush and rich-sounding release while maintaining her sweet and pure vocals throughout. I admit to a bit of confusion on the title however...it's in Greek. And translated from Greek it simply says "Adventure". My confusion is why would she print a title in Greek...especially when not even one song sounds Greek or even Meditterean in nature? Just for something different, I suppose... Actually, it's ironic, because I can translate the Greek title better than if she HAD chose to print her title in either Mandarin or Cantonese! On to the music: Track #1 opens gorgeous and elegant with a rich piano ballad. Track #2 has mostly guitar with a beautiful ballad melody where Cheer hits every single note solidly on key. Track #3 is in English and reminds a little bit of the British band "The Sundays" in style. I have to say she sings it pretty well, but most of the lyrics don't make much sense. There is also a lot of electric guitar on this and it is a rare up-tempo and VERY different style for Cheer. Also, for some reason (this could be intentional), there is a great deal of static on this song. Track #4 is a unique ballad tune that is simply relaxing and utterly perfect. Track #5 has mostly a lone piano ballad and is basic, simple and has the only example of weak vocals by Cheer. Track #6 is up-tempo which makes it a bit different for Cheer, but is a delightful song and after track #1 is my favorite because the melody is mesmerizing and hypnotic. Her voice just "floats" and this is a masterpiece. Track #7 has an over-synthesized introduction and is almost electronica in nature...it is a cross of ballad and mid-tempo. Not a favorite and doesn't showcase Cheer at all. Track #8 is a peaceful ballad, quite typical of Cheer's earlier works and is nice, but nothing as special as many of the other tracks on this wonderful CD. Track #9 has magnificent ballad rythmn and tone...it is very catchy and ideal for Cheer and her perfect pitch and ability to hit a wide range of notes within the same song. Track #10 is sweet, but it is a rather modern-sounding track with a distinct beat and full chorus singing behind Cheer on a mid-tempo track. Track #11 finishes this releases on a VERY stange note: the song is twangy and sounds almost like bad American country-Western music (and I LIKE country music...). But this song is just odd for Cheer and it isn't even good. If it was NICE country sung by her, it would be unique, but it is awful. I don't know why this song is here because it totally has nothing in common with any other track on this release. Thank God it is the last song because that placement makes it easy to skip when playing this CD. Overall, I think this is the best Cheer Chen release yet. The packaging is terrible, but the music is just amazing. I really think a lot of effort went into the production on this release and it shows. The music score is awe-inspiring in it's complexity and diversity and as always...Cheer's serene yet talented vocals remain on center stage to wow the listener and draw them into her world. I know I will play this CD quite frequently. It is nearly all ballads, which is nice for this time of year (autumn in the United States), when everything seems to be slowing down. It's ethereal and divine and would delight anyone. I highly recommend this purchase to any listener! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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Bi-Heart (Version 2)
4 people found the following helpful
October 6, 2005 Version 2...I wish I had waited to buy this release! I LOVED the Version 1, but this one has music videos and they are actually for ALL REGIONS. That means that for the first time I would have been able to watch the music videos that come with Chinese music on my American DVD player! I wish more singers would follow Joey's example and make their DVDs for ALL REGIONS. Music has gotten so global, it's practical to do that. I have so many Region 2 music videos that I am unable to play. But, I cannot afford to purchase this release again even to acquire the music videos. If you haven't bought this CD by Joey yet though...I recommend this version. For the same price, you get music videos AND a prettier cover. This Version 2 merely proves the old adage: Good things come to those who wait. Actually, I've been waiting for Version 2 of Twins' "Samba" and haven't seen one yet...I know they usually release more than one version too. Oh well, seems I have rotten luck on who to wait for and who not to! Have I mentioned yet that this CD is excellent in either version? My original review for it is on the Version 1 page here at YesAsia. The same things would apply to this one, except I obviously don't know about the packaging with this one...but the cover looks lovlier, I think. *sigh* I just really should have waited for this version... Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
5 people found the following helpful
September 30, 2005 Update:Just an update to my previous public service announcement. I got an e-mail today stating this CD has been shipped to me. I guess they had some miscommunication at the warehouse as to release and shipping dates. But that's OK...these things happen. I'm just glad to know my wonderful Cheer is on the way! I am so excited to hear new music from her...I know it will be a fabulous and delightful experience! Thank you for bearing with me... Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Silk Road - Path to Love (Preorder Edition)
6 people found the following helpful
September 28, 2005 Always Perfection...Another spectacular release by Fish! I have every release she has ever recorded and I think that while "Swallowtail Butterfly" remains my ultimate favorite...it's hard to pick the best when ALL her CDs are top-notch. I also like "Sunrise" a lot, even though it's older. With this release, though, you can tell she witheld NOTHING. Her heart and soul are laid out in her songs and on every delightful note. Her voice is so very passionate and compelling that one can't help but fall in love. The over-all feel of this CD is relaxation yet exuberance. There is absolutely nothing to complain about on this release...it is perfection and I recommend it to anyone who loves excellent music and a truly talented singer. She has some complex vocal arrangements on this CD that leave me breathless and in awe of her ability. She has stretched her wings: the "Butterfly" of her last release is flying proud and free on this one! I am honored to own this recording and will play it VERY frequently. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Be Right Back - Best Selection (CD+DVD)
8 people found the following helpful
September 28, 2005 Shining vocals...I have to agree with the reviewer who noted the songs do sound a bit dated. You can tell this is a compilation of mostly 90s songs and not a 2005 release. But, that aside: Bondy has a fabulous voice! I really like her sound. Rich and warm but pure and sweet at the same time. I like track #1 a lot, and #2 not-so-much. Which is pretty much my take on this entire CD. Some songs are definitely far better than others...probably because some are newer than others. I enjoy that Bondy does mostly ballads and does them very passionately and expressively. She really SINGS and you can feel her presence all around as she gets into each song. My only true complaint with this is that the songs ARE old. I would adore a NEW RELEASE of 2005 (or 2006...whenever she can prepare a new CD) songs by Bondy. Maybe with less traditional instuments...but still ballads. I think she's definitely a ballad singer. I would also like to see her singing more POWER ballads. Her voice has such un-tapped strength, that I think releasing it on an explosive ballad CD would be breath-taking. This CD, though, is a nice introduction to the style and ethereal world of Bondy Chiu and I recommend it. As for younger people not liking it...it depends. I am young and I like it even though I did note repeatedly how old the songs sound. On some, even the recording is sub-standard and she sounds like she is singing from a long way away...probably due to the recording techniques of the time. I think that STYLE PREFERENCE of the listener (ballads) will determine who likes this more than AGE of the listener. And you do have to prepare yourself as you put this into the CD player that you are going to be hearing almost retro-feeling songs because of the dates they were originally recorded. But, my hope is that this compilation means Bondy is BACK and planning on something new. I will DEFINITELY buy a new CD by her and I bet it will be marvelous. This is nice, but new songs would be even better! Admire Bondy...she is immensely talented in ANY generation. Truly. Wonderfully gifted. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)















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