Waukegan Public Library - CD

Have You Heard About... Babel

Fran J — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 06:39:17 +0000

… the second album from Mumford and Sons? For bonafide Mumford and Sons fans, this second album was a long time coming after Sigh No More debuted in early 2010. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this rousing indie-folk quartet from London, it’s time to give Sigh No More a listen. Go ahead. I’ll wait!

So now that you’re thoroughly hooked on Mumford and Sons’ catchy rhythms and powerful lyrics, it’s time to give their latest album, Babel, a listen. Lead singer Marcus Mumford’s voice has been taken to epic heights, particularly on “Broken Crown” and “Lover of the Light,” and the pounding rhythms are as infectious as anything heard on Sigh No More.

Mumford and Sons are well-known for their electrifying live performances, and this CD captures that energy splendidly with its bold and unabashedly emotional sound. Give Babel a listen, and I guarantee you’ll be singing and foot-stomping as if your life depended on it.

Reviewed by Katie (staff)

Have You Heard About... The Best of Harry James and His Orchestra

Fran J — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 06:28:13 +0000

… the “swing” music of the 1940’s? Calling all of you jivesters to put on your saddle shoes and cut a rug! You don’t have to remember World War II or have been alive in the 40’s to appreciate The Best of Harry James and His Orchestra. This CD is music at its best.

Harry James will have you tapping you toes as you listen to such memorable songs as Ciribiribin, You Made Me Love You, September Song, Two O’clock Jump and eight other wonderful tunes that only Harry can belt out on his trumpet. Harry James was not only one of the fantastic band leaders of the 40’s, but he and his orchestra were also in several of the great movie musicals of that time. Harry James was once married to movie star Betty Grable.

Reviewed by Terry (staff)

Have You Heard About... Talco '09

Fran J — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 06:41:06 +0000

…the Italian ska/punk band that’s getting world-wide acclaim? Talco’s Talco ‘09 combines their earlier releases “Combat Circus” and “Mazel Tov.” In addition to ska and punk, some songs have folk elements, and the band sometimes describes their music as “patchanka” due to the influence of French band Mano Negra.

I’ll admit that this wasn’t a group I expected to enjoy. However, I gave “Bella Ciao” a try and was completely hooked. I can’t say much about the lyrics because I don’t know Italian, but not understanding the words doesn’t stop me from enjoying Talco’s songs. I get caught up in the rhythms and melodies, and just fall in love through the universal language of music.

Reviewed by Fran (staff)

Have You Heard About... Florence and the Machine

Fran J — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:52:17 +0000

… the powerful voice of Florence Welch? Florence and the Machine, a British indie-pop group, released their second album, Ceremonials, last fall, and it has been recognized worldwide as a strong, stirring follow-up to their debut album, Lungs. Ceremonials has an ethereal, almost supernatural quality with its beating drums and ghostly back-up vocals, and Florence’s voice gives the album a lot of drama - just listen to tracks like “No Light, No Light” and “What the Water Gave Me” to hear what I mean.

This music has a BIG sound, and Florence’s voice isn’t for everyone, particularly for those who prefer more traditional music. But if you like your music to have a touch of quirkiness and drama, I highly recommend you give Ceremonials a listen (or three). It’s a great album to lose yourself in.

Reviewed by Katie (staff)

Have You Heard About... Sigh No More

Fran J — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 07:00:12 +0000

… British indie folk/rock group Mumford & Sons? Their debut album, Sigh No More, is wildly popular both at home and here in the US. It’s not hard to tell why after listening to the gritty vocals, heart-felt lyrics, and beautiful music.

Love is a running theme throughout the album – love of family, friends, lovers and God; heartbreak and heartache; deserving love and denying love; standing by those you love and standing up for yourself. The songs are a good blend of fast and slow, with strong rhythms that will keep your toes tapping. Winston Marshall’s banjo is particularly good, with intricate picking featured in several tunes.

The one downside I found is that the lyrics are occasionally difficult to make out against the music. However, a second listening (no hardship, I assure you) helps, as does looking through the accompanying booklet.

Reviewed by Fran (staff)

Have You Heard About... 11:11

Fran J — Tue, 10 May 2011 06:17:07 +0000

… the amazing music of Rodrigo y Gabriela?

The dynamic duo has released yet another stunner with 11:11! The guitar work by both musicians is something I have never heard before, with Rodrigo’s heavy handed, almost metal-like riffs and Gabriela’s cool, laid-back Latin vibe. They are far and wide the best acoustic team out there today. Pick it up today or whenever you stop by! You will not be disappointed.

Reviewed by Austin (staff)