| CUSTOMER REVIEWS: | 2/5 - Album not bad, copy protection very bad
I like Susheela Raman. Her previous album, Salt Rain, is a favourite and I regularly return to it. Music For Crocodiles isn't as good, it lacks the originality and isn't as distinctively her - it hasn't grabbed me in quite the same way. That said, it is still a pleasant listen - I will give it a few more tries to see if it grows on me. For those new to Ms Raman, I'd recommend trying Salt Rain first.
The big problem I have is with the copy protection. In line with the reviewer below, I've found this causes real difficulties. I played it on an old mini system in the kitchen and it worked fine. I then made the mistake of putting it into my Mac to load onto iTunes and then onto my iPod (which I use for a lot of my music listening). My Mac completely ceased up and, eventually, all I could do was pull the plug on the Mac with several open documents - upon rebooting I was able remove the CD. I haven't dared try it in my car CD player.
Looking at the CD case, in small type on the reverse is a comment that it has copy protection and may not work in car CD players. So, let's get this straight, I buy a CD but it is mangled deliberately by the manufacturer so that I can't play it? Great tactic - it won't stop the teenage hackers (who would probably not buy this album anyway) but it annoys the actual buyers. If copy protection issues stop you listening to the album, it is a major issue. Record companies (and internet vendors) should be forced to disclose PROMINENTLY any copy protection so the informed potential buyer can make a decision on whether to proceed. I wish I'd taken notice of the reviewer below and EMI/Virgin/Narada have joined Sony on my black list.
5/5 - Sensual, seductive, spiritual; probably her best yet
For me, this is Susheela's most accessible and successful album to date. It is a mature piece, full of sensual production values, some profound lyrics with intense delivery(Chordhiya)and an overarching warmth to the whole. For me this is the perfect introduction to her work and one I will be buying for friends for a surprise christmas gift without having to worry,too much whether it will appeal to them, I'm sure it will. It has the perfect blend of accessible easiness on the ear yet with depth of feeling, originality and integrity.There is the usual mix of English and Indian lyrics and there is some fantastic, refreshing, musicianship from her band who also reach new heights. A perfect album for a lazy ,sunny afternoon, or an intimate party where you want a warm sensual atmosphere. Excellent at any time in fact. Buy it and be seduced.
5/5 - Album of the Year !!
Encoding worries are in no way an excuse not to buy this significant album. It is for me simply the album of the year and a valuable contribution to the music world.
Susheela combines a soulful, jazzy voice with an eclectic mix of instruments and moving lyrics. I have never heard any artist who has such an abundance of effortless talent.
Sarah McLachlan, Norah Jones, Any Winehouse, Natalie Merchant - all fantastic artists - none of these even come close. That should put things into perspective.
Make sure you listen to this album, regardless of format. |
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Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Last visit: 9/11/2009
