LOST HIGHWAY - LOST HIGHWAY

"Lost Highway" is the soundtrack of the movie with the same name.  How I came to own this little gem is a story in itself and I think I'll share it with you.

I can't remember the exact date but I was at a Marilyn Manson concert and he played 'Apple Of Sodom'.  I'd never heard the song before and I absolutely loved it.  The performance was eerie and compelling at the same time.  I couldn't take my eyes off him.  I couldn't understand the lyrics, but a little bit of research online and I eventually found a message board where some kid who'd seen the same tour in another city posted his feelings about the tour and he mentioned the title of the song and how surprised he was to have seen it in the live set.  Once I had the title, I was able to find out where I could get the song and as luck would have it, I found this disc in a used music store on my first attempt to find it.  If I recall, it only cost $4.

The album has since taken a more esteemed place in my music collection as I discovered Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails produced the project and was largely responsible for the sound.  It also features tracks by a number of bands I was into at the time including The Smashing Pumpkins, Rammstein and David Bowie.

A couple of composers are also featured on the disc interspersed between band tracks with pieces of film scoring they contributed to the film.  One of them writes a form of unconventional Vegas Lounge jazz.  There's a lot of dated instruments and the horns are right out of a 50's stripper song catalog.  The other composer's pieces are just as creepy, but take on the sound and feel of old time country western films; if they were spooky as hell.

The album starts off with an edit of David Bowie's 'I'm Deranged'.  Right around this time, David Bowie's "Outside" was one of my favorite albums.  I was utterly enthralled with it and played it constantly.  When Bowie started working with Trent Reznor on some mixes for 'The Heart's Filthy Lesson', I thought I was in heaven.  I would eventually see them share the stage at a concert they played together in Vegas.  As an "Outside" track, 'I'm Deranged' was already a favorite of mine.  It's inclusion here only makes the soundtrack that much more satisfying for me.  As the last track on the album, it reprises and takes the listener out on the same note they came in on.

You know, I've never actually seen this movie, but based on the soundtrack, I'm guessing it was bizarre and strange.  I feel confident that guess is accurate.

Although I'm tempted to break the disc down track by track, many of these songs appear on other albums and I'm sure I'll discuss them at length on those reviews.  So I'll focus on the highlights.  Manson's 'Apple Of Sodom' is a disturbed number that absolutely lived up to my expectations.  I find the studio track just as interesting and thought provoking as the version I saw live.  Manson is also featured on 'I Put A Spell On You', a song he covered on one of his earlier records.  It's inclusion heightens the dark themes of the compilation and simultaneously introduces a supernatural element to the mix.

Rammstein appear on two tracks.  Both are edits of songs from their albums, "Sehnsucht" and "Herzeleid".  The tracks in question, 'Rammstein (Edit)' and 'Heirate Mich (Edit)' are right at home on this moody assemblage.  Till's deep growling vocal delivery adds to the tension of the overall feel of the disc.  The Smashing Pumpkins, ever the masters of genre bending composition appear on one track, 'Eye' and somehow, even though I would say it's the most different sounding number on the disc, it still blends and adds to the mystery.

Lou Reed appears on a cover of 'This Magic Moment' and again, his unorthodox vocals take a perfectly innocent song and bends it to a sinister end.  One of the most interesting things about this album is the tracks Trent Reznor contributes to the film score.  If I'm not mistaken, this is his first attempt at writing score material.  Whether or not I'd call his additions a success is irrelevant to one thing...  and that is simply that as the musical director of this project, he succeeds in creating an artistic, moody combination of music that initially would seem musically at odds, but somehow finds a resolution that creates an intense feeling of anxiety and paranoia as you follow along.

I should also point out Reznor's popular music moniker, Nine Inch Nails, is also part of the mix with the track he also released as a single, 'The Perfect Drug'.

This is certainly a disturbing compilation of material and it's definitely worth exploring if you're into any of the artists and bands featured on the disc.  If you can track it down, experience the strange for yourself.  My final words:  REZNOR'S FIRST FORAY INTO FILM MUSIC IS A DARK AND STORMY SUCCESS.

LOST HIGHWAY - LOST HIGHWAY
01. David Bowie - I'm Deranged (Edit)
02. Trent Reznor - Videodrones: Questions
03. Nine Inch Nails - The Perfect Drug
04. Angelo Badalamenti - Red Bats With Teeth
05. Angelo Badalamenti - Haunting & Heartbreaking
06. The Smashing Pumpkins - Eye
07. Angelo Badalamenti - Dub Driving
08. Barry Adamson - Mr. Eddy's Theme 1
09. Lou Reed - This Magic Moment
10. Barry Adamson - Mr. Eddy's Theme 2
11. Angelo Badalamenti - Fred & Renee Make Love
12. Marilyn Manson - Apple Of Sodom
13. Antonio Carlos Jobim - Insensatez
14. Barry Adamson - Something Wicked This Way Comes (Edit)
15. Marilyn Manson - I Put A Spell On You
16. Angelo Badalamenti - Fats Revisited
17. Angelo Badalamenti - Fred's World
18. Rammstein - Rammstein (Edit)
19. Barry Adamson - Hollywood Sunset
20. Rammstein - Heirate Mich (Edit)
21. Angelo Badalamenti - Police
22. Trent Reznor - Driver Down
23. David Bowie - I'm Deranged (Reprise)

RAMMSTEIN - DU RIECHST SO GUT '98

"Du Riechst So Gut '98" is the second single for this song by Rammstein.  Like other European singles, it comes in a slim case.  And this one is packed to overflowing!  There are 8 versions of the song on this disc along with a multimedia file with the music video for the track.  Once again, Rammstein delivers the goods.

The first track is 'Du Riechst So Gut '98'  This is an updated version of the "Herzeleid" track released during the promotion and touring for "Sehnsucht".  The music video at the end of the disc is the original version.  The first mix appearing on the disc is a remix by Faith No More.  They sorta give you an orchestral acapella rendition of the song.  Gunter Schulz of KMFDM provides two mixes on this single.  The first of these is a hard rock minimalist version that explodes into a electronic frenzy when the chorus comes in.  It's a fun mix.  Schulz's bandmate, Sascha Konietzko is up next with a heavy techno mix of the song.  This version is built up mostly around the drum patterns playing underneath.  It's not bad, but it's not as full as the original.

Olav Bruhn from Bobo In White Wooden Houses delivers a super hard drumming version next.  It's so intense, it's hard to listen to at times.  Live, this version would certainly drive a crowd crazy, but here, it just overloads the senses.  Sascha Moser also from Bobo In White Wooden Houses is up next with a remix I like.  He uses some vocal distortion and uses a techno drum beat on the bottom end to create a tempo for the track.  

Jacob Hellner and Marc Stagg mix the next track and stay largely faithful to the original just using effect patches and high hat crashes to change the sound slightly.  Of the bunch, this one is easily my favorite.  Gunter Schulz finishes the disc with a 'Migraine' remix.  It's essentially an instrumental version of his first mix, with Till singing the chorus faintly a couple of times.  The video for this cut is actually pretty cool.

I love me some Rammstein and I gotta say, this band never fails to pack their singles with lots of value.  Part of the reason I enjoy them so much.  My final words:  A WHOMPING LIGHTNING STRIKE OF A SINGLE!  LOADED WITH EXTRA GOODNESS TO MAKE YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE COMPLETE.

RAMMSTEIN - DU RIECHST SO GUT '98
01. Du Riechst So Gut '98
02. Du Riechst So Gut (RMX By Faith No More)
03. Du Riechst So Gut (RMX By Gunter Schulz-KMFDM & Hiwatt Marshall)
04. Du Riechst So Gut (RMX By Sascha Konietzko-KMFDM)
05. Du Riechst So Gut (RMX By Olav Bruhn-Bobo In White Wooden Houses)
06. Du Riechst So Gut (RMX By Sascha Moser-Bobo In White Wooden Houses)
07. Du Riechst So Gut (RMX By Jacob Hellner/Marc Stagg)
08. Du Riechst So Gut ('Migraine' - RMX By Gunter Schulz-KMFDM)
09. Du Riechst So Gut '95 (Multimedia Originalvideo)

RAMMSTEIN - LIEBE IST FÜR ALLE DA

Rammstein released this record in 2009.  I was fortunate enough to have a friend at the record store who ordered me the Limited Edition version.  This version includes a second disc with additional music.  I'll discuss that later on because for now I want to say I really went all out on this release.  I knew they were planning on touring the states for this album after skipping the US on previous tours and when they announced a show in Vegas, I got my tickets right away.  And let me tell you, they did not disappoint.

The first disc begins with a choir vocalizing until Till suddenly bursts in and starts singing in his half growl, half melodic voice.  As quickly and unexpectedly as he appears, the guitar power chords surge in and like the tires on a car squealing when you peel out, 'Rammleid' explodes from the speakers.  I could instantly tell I was going to love this record.  Even with bands you love there are times when they release albums you don't like everything you're hearing.  Although there are a couple of brief moments like that here, I think the disc is overall amazing and worth exploring.  'Ich Tu Dir Weh' is the first song I really got into and it's followed by the track that's become my absolute favorite song from this record.  'Waidmanns Heil' is one of those great tunes that sounds fantastic no matter where or how you're experiencing it.  Although I will say, seeing it live was a life changing event for me.  It was powerful, exciting and dramatic!  The special effects were off the hook and the crowd responded so well, I think it actually surprised the band.  Simply put, this is a track that ROCKS!!!

'Wiener Blut' is another standout number and it's followed by a song I can't take seriously.  Don't get me wrong, I like the music, but I find the lyrics a bit ridiculous.  'Pussy' begins with a weak electronic drum pattern that reminds me of 'Pop Goes The World' by Men Without Hats, but then the live drums erupt and all heck breaks loose.  In the concert, Till Lindemann rides a giant foam cannon across the stage.  It's shaped like a penis and he fires foam all over the audience.  Hilarious.

'Mehr' is the last track I really love on the album and it leads to the ballad, 'Roter Sand' which ends the disc.  It's a satisfying disc and you'd be completely happy with it in that form but...  Wait!  There's that second disc!!!  It starts with 'Führe Mich'.  This is one of their Piledriver songs.  I call it that because these piledriver numbers are usually the ones they use to open their shows.  The second track, 'Donaukinder' reminds me of 'Spieluhr' from "Mutter".  Only Rammstein can take something as innocent as a lullaby and turn it into a frightening parody of itself.  You can only imagine the types of nursery rhymes Till puts his kids to bed with each night.  The intensity of 'Halt' is quickly extinguished by an orchestral version of 'Roter Sand'.  I'm not a huge fan of it on the first disc and even less impressed with it here.  Another ballad, 'Liese' rounds out the second disc.

It always amazes me how poetic and layered Rammstein's lyrics are.  They're truly one of the most interesting bands around today.  Sure they get written off as a power chord metal outfit, but if you take the time to translate and study their lyrics, you'll find a group expressing thoughts and ideas you probably wouldn't even consider in English.  I'm constantly surprised by them.  This record is excellent and left me anticipating their next release.  My final words:  IF YOU DON'T HAVE THIS EDITION OF THE ALBUM, STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING AND GET IT.  IT'S NOT COMPLETE WITHOUT THE SECOND DISC.

RAMMSTEIN - LIEBE IST FÜR ALLE DA
CD1
01. Rammleid
02. Ich Tu Dir Weh
03. Waidmanns Heil
04. Haifisch
05. B********
06. Frühling In Paris
07. Wiener Blut
08. Pussy
09. Liebe Ist Für Alle Da
10. Mehr
11. Roter Sand
CD2
01. Führe Mich
02. Donaukinder
03. Halt
04. Roter Sand (Orchester Version)
05. Liese

RAMMSTEIN - DU HAST

Rammstein's first hit in America was this delightful little single.  It heralded their biggest success in the 90's.  Compared to how well they've done on the international stage, both this single and album can't compare to their larger volume of work.  However, as far as US audiences are concerned, I'm pretty sure this is the pinnacle of the band's fame.

This version of the single features 4 tracks.  The first is the single version of 'Du Hast'.  It's an edit of the album full length version.  It's followed by the full album version of 'Buck Dich'.  So right there you have the main song and a b-side.  Excellent work.  The last two tracks are mixes.  The first is a remix by Jacob Hellner.  Using some strange electronic distortions, Hellner generates a new rhythm track and creates a deeper industrial version of the song.  The second remix is by Clawfinger and although it initially seems like it's going to be a more techno remix, it devolves into a harder rock version of the song.  Although I like both mixes, neither does the song justice.  'Du Hast' is just too powerful on its own.

Like most European singles, it comes housed in a slim case and like most Rammstein singles, I'm happy with the content and feel like I got my money's worth.  My final words:  BREAKTHROUGH SINGLE FROM A BREAKTHROUGH BAND!

RAMMSTEIN - DU HAST
01. Du Hast (Single Version)
02. Buck Dich (Album Version)
03. Du Hast (Jacob Hellner Remix)
04. Du Hast (Clawfinger Remix)

RAMMSTEIN - SONNE

This is a single from Rammstein's album "Mutter".  It's a great single for a couple reasons...  First, it has a b-side!  You heard me right.  The first track is essentially the album version of the song, but the second track is 'Adios'.  Now before you get too carried away, let me point out, 'Adios' does come from the album as well, but it's still nice to break up the mixes with another track and these two compliment each other rather well.  I'm not being too picky today whether or not the b-side is a non-album track or not.  I'm just enjoying the fact it's there.

Second, it has mixes.  Tracks 3 and 4 are remixes by the Swedish band, Clawfinger.  The first features deep metal drumming and harder power chords.  The second uses a jungle beat for the remix and relies on lower keyboard tones in place of the guitar power chords.  The final track is an instrumental version of the song.

I quite enjoy singles by Rammstein.  I think they pack a lot in these mini albums and I've never found one I thought was a total waste of money.

My final words:  ANOTHER EXCELLENT SINGLE FROM GERMANY'S PREMIER METAL BAND!

RAMMSTEIN - SONNE

01. Sonne

02. Adios

03. Sonne (Clawfinger K.O. Remix)

04. Sonne (Clawfinger T.K.O. Remix)

05. Sonne (Instrumental)

NITZER EBB - BELIEF

Although this is Nitzer Ebb's second album, it was actually the first one I bought.  I picked it up at the Tower Records Superstore in Vegas while it was still around.  Man, I loved that store.  During the 90's, lots of electronic bands were following in the footsteps of Depeche Mode by exploring heavier industrial sounds.  And Nitzer Ebb seems to be the band who led the charge.  Where DM were inspired by German industrial bands like Einstürzende Neubauten and Kraftwerk, subsequent artists like Nine Inch Nails and Rammstein were influenced by DM.

Independent of Depeche Mode, Nitzer Ebb nonetheless embraced a similar respect for the avant-garde movement and represented it in their own music through a combination of pounding beats and half-spoken, half-sung Tantric lyrics that drone in your ear with the precision of a military marching band.

One of the biggest differences between this and the previous record can be found in the sound.  It was produced by Flood who had been working with Depeche Mode.  He brought the unique sound catalog they'd engineered over the years.  This allowed Nitzer Ebb to sound similar enough to DM for them to attract the later's fanbase while at the same time sounding completely different.

Their songs rely heavily on simple arrangements and aggressive beats and covered subjects as varied as Hezbollah airplane hijacking and faith crisis'.  In some ways, the more simple song writing and intense music fit the industrial label much better than other bands at the time who fit into the genre.

Industrial music would transition into a form of metal in the 90's thanks to the efforts of bands like NE.  But while that change occurred, NE stayed the same and became an electronic band.  This record can fit in either category and although it's a strong record from start to finish, I do have my favorite tracks.  'Shame' is easily my favorite on the album followed closely by 'Without Belief'.  I also think this is the strongest of the NE albums I've heard.  It's one weak moment is 'T.W.A.' which tends to meander a bit.

Overall, I recommend this record to people considering giving NE a try.  You won't regret this decision even if you never buy another record from the band.  This is the one that defines them even if "Ebbhead" is more well known and famous.  My final words:  THE ADVANCEMENT OF INDUSTRIAL MUSIC IN THE 80'S.  AND POUNDING BEATS TO BOOT.

NITZER EBB - BELIEF
01. Hearts And Minds
02. For Fun
03. Control I'm Here
04. Captivate
05. T.W.A.
06. Blood Money
07. Shame
08. Drive
09. Without Belief

RAMMSTEIN - STRIPPED

This is another interesting single from Rammstein because it's a song they didn't release on one of their albums.  It's actually taken from a tribute to Depeche Mode CD called "For The Masses".  It includes DM covers by other bands like The Smashing Pumpkins and The Cure.

Rammstein delivers one of the better covers on the disc and this single is packed with mixes and a surprise bonus multimedia track.  Their cover is mixed by a number of people including Charlie Clouser who was working heavily with Nine Inch Nails at the time and was a member of the touring band.  KMFDM also contribute a mix.

The first mix is from Goth-Metal band Tiamat.  It's a dark and slow grind mix that really devolves the track into something seething.  It's followed by two mixes from Clouser who famously takes metal tracks and turns them into club friendly rock outs.  He delivers on both of his mixes.  The first being more accessible than the second.  He takes the vocals on the second mix and gives them the midi treatment.  Still, the beat is there and the song is simply groovy!

The final mix by KMFDM is more industrial than the previous mixes.  Not only does it sound more industrial, but it's also stripped of most instrumentation going for a minimalist approach.  Finally, there's a live multimedia clip accessible through your computer.  You can watch the band play 'Wollt Ihr Das Bett In Flammen Sehen' from their first album "Herzeleid".  The track was recorded live in Berlin in 1996.  It's an awesome performance and gives you an idea of what the band are actually like in a live setting.

This CD is packed with cool stuff and comes in a slim case.  It is worth the price.  I think it's loaded with value and you shouldn't feel even slightly guilty about adding it to your collection.  My final words:  A CD WORTH STRIPPING FOR.

RAMMSTEIN - STRIPPED
01. Stripped
02. Stripped (Psilonaut Mix)
03. Stripped (Heavy Mental Mix)
04. Stripped (Tribute To Dusseldorf Mix)
05. Stripped (FKK Mix)
06. Wollt Ihr Das Bett In Flammen Sehen (Live Arena, Berlin '96.5.01)

RAMMSTEIN - DAS MODELL

This is an interesting release.  For many reasons...  First and foremost, this single by Rammstein doesn't appear on any of their albums.  The track is actually a cover of a 1982 song by Kraftwerk.  Both versions are fantastic although you have to give intensity and excitement to Rammstein's version as Kraftwerk's is somewhat droning and solemn.

The single lists 4 titles but the final title is actually a computer game you can play on Windows when you stick the disc in your computer.  You take on the form of one of the Rammstein members and you make your way through a series of levels using a flamethrower weapon.  It's actually quite strange and compelling all at the same time.

The second track on this single is a b-side called 'Kokain'.  This is a strange and confusing song with all sorts of implied meaning.  The basic concept is chopping up lines of cocaine and snorting them, but sub-textually, there's much more happening here and some of it highly questionable.

The third track is an alternate version of 'Alter Mann' from "Sehnsucht".  Not much to go into here.

This single is quite rare now and sells for quite a bit of money on sites like eBay and Amazon.  It's packaged in a slim case typical of European and UK singles.  If you can find it at an affordable price, I suggest picking it up.  It really is an amazing disc.  And as far as I know, it's the only place you can find 'Dad Modell' and 'Kokain'.

My final words:  EASILY ONE OF THE BEST EURO SINGLES EVER!  EXCLUSIVE INCREDIBLE CONTENT, INVENTIVE AND PACKED WITH VALUE!  MUST OWN FOR ANY RAMMSTEIN FAN.

RAMMSTEIN - DAS MODELL
01. Das Modell
02. Kokain
03. Alter Mann (Special Version)
04. Rammstein Computerspiel

RAMMSTEIN - ASCHE ZU ASCHE

Back in 2001 I was crazy for Rammstein.  Everything they were putting out I was buying.  Including import singles.  In fact, I was more interested in owning import copies, especially German copies, of their releases than the American versions.  This particular item was a tasty treat.  Rammstein had just released their first live concert film, "Live Aus Berlin" with simultaneous CD release.  Initially, you could buy the film on VHS and the soundtrack on CD.  Eventually, it had a DVD release, but that was a fiasco by itself.  And a disappointment.  But I'll discuss that at a later date.

The double live album was a huge release for them that year and yet there wasn't a single released to accompany the album with the exception of this one.  And it was only released in Australia.  The single contains the album version of the song 'Asche Zu Asche' and then five live tracks exactly as they appear on the CD release.  There's nothing new on this disc.  Nothing special.  Other than the fact you get a unique cover and at the time a collector's item.

I was thrilled to get this disc and happy to add it to my collection.  Even though, as far as content, value wasn't there.  My final words:  UNIQUE COLLECTOR'S ITEM!

RAMMSTEIN - ASCHE ZU ASCHE
01. Asche Zu Asche (Album Version)
02. Spiel Mit Mir (Live Version)
03. Laichzeit (Live Version)
04. Wollt Ihr Das Bett In Flammen Sehen? (Live Version)
05. Engel (Live Version)
06. Asche Zu Asche (Live Version) 

KMFDM - SYMBOLS

KMFDM were a huge part of the 90's industrial rock scene.  They had music on soundtracks, various members were remixing for everyone from Rammstein to NIN.  They're a German band and I think their biggest hit in the US was probably the album's first track, 'Megalomaniac'.  I think it appeared on a motion picture soundtrack.  Probably one of the Mortal Kombat films.  This track is the reason I bought this album.  I picked it up on sale at the Tower Records on Maryland Parkway back in the day.  At the time, this was one of those records I regretted buying.  I loved the one track, but I didn't get into the rest of the album.  

Part of the reason I picked up the album was because I was going to see them live and I wanted to have something for band members to autograph if I got to meet them.

I remember first hearing about this band...  Everyone talking about them said the initials stood for "Kill Mother F'ing Depeche Mode", but the actual meaning is "Kein mitleid fur den mehrheit"; which means, "No sympathy for the majority".  I love that saying.

Anywho...  I listened to this album a few times in preparation for this review and I wondered if my initial impression of the disc would change since it's been so long since I've listened to the disc.  Sadly, it hasn't.  The music is fine, but it doesn't jump out at me.  I still like the intensity of the music.  But outside of 'Megalomaniac', I don't really get into anything on the disc.  'Stray Bullet' stands out, but I don't necessarily like it.  More like I find it memorable.

KMFDM is a band I find I like with certain songs and remain indifferent to on others.  I remember another track they did I loved called 'Juke Joint Jezebel'.  Amazing.

The only other thing I can think of to say about this album is the strange title.  It's just a series of symbols.  Hence the catalog listing as "Symbols". 

This is a record I wanted to like.  Really wanted to like and feel disappointed I don't like it more than I do.  But you can't win them all.  I still think KMFDM is an interesting group and I check up on them when I think of it.  I'm sure there's a diamond record in the bunch somewhere.  And with streaming media, maybe I'll find it one day and finally have my KMFDM favorite.

My final words:  SKIP FOR ME, BUT MIGHT BE GREAT FOR YOU.  I STILL WANT TO LIKE THIS BAND'S MUSIC.

KMFDM - SYMBOLS
01. Megalomaniac
02. Stray Bullet
03. Leid Und Elend
04. Mercy
05. Torture
06. Spit Sperm
07. Anarchy
08. Down And Out
09. Unfit
10. Waste

RAMMSTEIN - ICH WILL

It's a quick one today, folks!  Back in the 90's, post-East German industrial rockers, Rammstein took the United States by storm!  Theatrical pyrotechnics, unrelenting beats, scary German lyrics all added up as the perfect ingredients for a big sloppy cake of international fame.  From backwoods Kentucky to inner city suburbs in Moscow, Rammstein's blend of power rock, strange techno and special effects called out to disenfranchised youth everywhere.  Although I was too old to be counted among the "kids", I did love them and I bought everything they put out.  I have all the singles.  Even ones I had to order from the UK or Germany.

"Ich Will", (German for "I Want"), is a track from the "Mutter" album.  This was the album I stopped buying singles and trying to track everything down.  It's not that I didn't want to follow them, but they started putting out such expensive limited editions.  I couldn't afford to follow them.  And now, those items that cost $100 initially sell for hundreds when you can actually find them.  Because of this, I lost my interest in collecting their releases.  So this was the last album I actually bought singles from.  There are five music tracks and one multimedia track on this disc.  The multimedia track is a live performance of 'Ich Will'.  Track 2 is the audio of that performance. 

The first track is listed as the album version, but I have to be honest with you, I think the start is different.  I'll have to listen to it and compare it to my copy of "Mutter" to find out.  It's followed up by the live version.  Then comes the Westbam Mix...  I'm not knowledgeable when it comes to Westbam, but this version sounds like something Kraftwerk would've done if they'd written this number.  If I'm not mistaken, they use only one keyboard motif through the entire mix that can be found on the original track.  Other wise, it's a long, long deep beat mix that doesn't seem to peak or climax.  I guess that's cool if you like endless beats...  Anyway, #4 is the Paul Van Dyk Mix.  Once again, I have no clue who Paul Van Dyk is.  All of this was happening during the time DJ's were becoming the new Rock Stars.  The beat is far more interesting than the previous effort and it's different from anything we've heard lately.  About half way through, it devolves into an acoustic track.  Then it builds the song back up with the beat kicking in.  It's a little better than the previous mix, but it's still pretty heavy with all the not moving towards a climax or developing into a proper mix.

The final audio track is a Ramones cover.  'Pet Sematary' is actually the second live track appearing on this unique release.  After listening to it a few times, I think they did a great job!  Surprising when you consider how uncomfortable Till normally is singing English.  It's possible it's not even him.  But I think I remember him performing this tune, so I'll just assume it's him.

Rammstein are a consistent band.  Each album furthers the mythology and builds up the fairy tale nightmare world they want to surround you with.  They usually release singles and albums with generous content...  Mixes, B-Sides, multimedia clips... And the artwork is always building on the album theme.  Commercially and from a marketing standpoint, I think Rammstein are highly collectible and apparently, a lot of people agree with me.  'Ich Will' is a great tune.  One of the best from "Mutter" and this single release is worth the effort and time.  My final words:  IF SINGLES WERE HITS AT BAT, THIS ONE'S A HOMERUN!

RAMMSTEIN - ICH WILL
01. Ich Will (Album Version)
02. Ich Will (Live)
03. Ich Will (Westbam Mix)
04. Ich Will (Paul Van Dyk Mix)
05. Pet Sematary
06. Ich Will (Live CD-R Track)

RAMMSTEIN - VÖLKERBALL

This is Rammstein's second live release and in the grand tradition of greedy record companies, this CD has four versions you can purchase, the most complete clocks in somewhere around $100 or so. There's the single disc edition including an edited version of the Nimes concert. Then there's the DVD/CD edition which includes the full Nimes show on DVD and then the edited version of the concert. The DVD also includes live performances from other shows recorded around the same time. There's the 2 DVD/CD edition. This one includes a second DVD with behind the scenes stuff and some documentary material. The final version is the 2 DVD/2 CD. This one has the full Nimes concert on two discs and the two DVDs. Needless to say, I didn't get that one.

The concert is quite amazing, but ranking on a scale with other tours, this is one of the tamer tours. There's lots to see and lots to enjoy. The recording sounds a bit muddled and it makes me wonder if the stage monitors were working properly because the band seems just a bit off one another. But that's neither here nor there. It just sounds that way to me.

There are excellent tracks to enjoy here and it's well worth the price to hear more live material from Rammstein. They are very exciting live and the arrangements are usually entertaining.

It would be awesome if Rammstein took a page out of Depeche Mode's book and released a live DVD and CD with each tour. The concert for "Mutter" was absolutely brilliant and I want to see that show again. It was amazing. This last tour was also incredible. I'd enjoy seeing a DVD of it surface sometime soon.

For those of you who know Rammstein, you will enjoy this CD. For those who don't, it's a great way to discover them. The show covers hits from virtually every record they've released. Even with the slightly muddled performance at times, the disc is awesome and well worth the expense. My final words: BURNING HOT ROCK!

RAMMSTEIN - VÖLKERBALL
01. Intro
02. Reise, Reise
03. Links 2 3 4
04. Keine Lust
05. Feuer Frei!
06. Asche Zu Asche
07. Morgenstern
08. Mein Teil
09. Los
10. Du Riechst So Gut
11. Benzin
12. Du Hast
13. Sehnsucht
14. Amerika
15. Sonne
16. Ich Will

RAMMSTEIN - ROSENROT

I think the saddest thing about this album from Rammstein is they weren't sure they were even going to bother releasing it in America. It's sad because every time Rammstein has toured in the states or released here, they leave feeling completely repressed and having to compromise their artistic vision. I have mixed feelings about this. A part of me thinks they're being ridiculous, another part of me agrees with them about the unfriendly artistic environment musicians and artists in the United States find themselves in. I still think they have an obligation to their fans here. Many of us are left high and dry while Rammstein focus their attentions on other countries. Most American artists do the same thing. They focus mainly in the states while their foreign fans go without. But Rammstein are a group who could play here and sell tickets if they really wanted to.

The American release came months after the European, Asian and even Canadian versions. My copy is Canadian. The best thing about Rammstein is they consistently deliver what their fans want while simultaneously expanding their musical palate with each release. Once again, the album is preformed almost entirely in the bands' native German with two exceptions. On 'Stirb Nicht Vor Mir (Don't Die Before I Do)', a duet with Sharleen Spiteri of 90's Scots band Texas, is performed partially in English. Another track and one of the CD's highlight numbers, 'Te Quiero Puta' is performed in Spanish.

Right from the outset with 'Benzin', the heavy beat and guitars kick in to let you know what's to come. Keeping in tune with the groups' continued fascination with fire and explosive performances, 'Benzin' is a sloppy word kiss for the combustible accelerator. The group also has a tradition of performing homoerotic material and the second track, 'Mann Gegen Mann' is another guitar driven tribute to same sex intercourse specifically between two men. The first time I heard the record I was completely blown away by the powerful start and anxious for more. My initial reaction to 'Rosenrot' the title track was one of lukewarm affection. I didn't really like it. However, I couldn't get it out of my mind and now it's one of my favorite songs on the record.

'Spring' is another matter altogether. I feel up to this point, the band had created an unstoppable momentum. With 'Spring' they totally drop the bottom out from under the listener. It's not a bad song, but it's not their strongest material either. 'Wo Bist Du' raises the tempo but not the volume. It's not the best followup to 'Spring' but is considerably better. It's followed up with 'Stirb Nicht Vor Mir (Don't Die Before I Do)' the half English duet. This song is very strange. It sounds like a collaboration that never really favored either group. I doubt it fits Sharleen Spiteri's sound and it definitely doesn't fit Rammstein's. My opinion is one of befuddlement. My eyebrows raise in an arch and I wonder to myself, "Hunh?". The lyrics are a bit ridiculous as well. But Rammstein can be that way sometimes. I've learned to overlook the childish in favor of the sheer poetry of other songs.

The Noise cranks back up to acceptable Rammstein levels with the next track, 'Zerstören'. I love the intensity of this brilliant track. Even though 'Hilf Mir' is another life threatening plunge from a metal skyscraper, the lyrics are cool enough to make the song worth listening to. However, I've never found an appreciation for these slow tempo power ballads. 'Te Quiero Puta' is simply amazing. I love it. Perfection on multiple levels. Both 'Feuer Und Wasser' and 'Ein Lied' are ballads. Both are extremely slow. More than any other Rammstein record to date, this album is practically flooded with ballads. With over half the tracks being mid-tempo or slow ballads, it's not your typical Rammstein record. The highlights are certainly worth it. When they're on, they're on 100%. When they're off, they miss by miles. The cover of this album is a large ice breaker ship caught in a frozen ocean. Sadly, that's how this record can seem at times. It starts off like a massive piece of machinery barreling forward crashing through ice and then WHAM! you're brought to a screeching halt. It is perhaps this inconsistency that makes it the least popular Rammstein records to date. But I actually love it. It's still almost half and half with me, but more on the like side than dislike. Then again, I love Rammstein. I like what they do and I love their music, so it's not a huge stretch for me to give this one a thumbs up. My final words: DEEP WATERS ARE NEVER STILL.

RAMMSTEIN - ROSENROT
01. Benzin
02. Mann Gegen Mann
03. Rosenrot
04. Spring
05. Wo Bist Du
06. Stirb Nicht Vor Mir (Don't Die Before I Do)
07. Zerstören
08. Hilf Mir
09. Te Quiero Puta
10. Feuer Und Wasser
11. Ein Lied

FAMILY VALUES - TOUR '98

I saw this concert back in 1998. I don't remember Incubus playing, but I remember all the other acts. I went to the show because Rammstein was playing and I was a huge Rammstein fanatic. I couldn't wait to see them again.

From what I remember, it was an extremely enjoyable program for a festival type show. The fist group I remember playing was Orgy. I had the single for 'Blue Monday' but I didn't yet own the actual album. They were new and I liked what they were doing and became really excited after seeing them live. They inspired me to actually fork out the $15. and buy 'Candyass'. Looking back, I think I wouldn't have gone to such an extreme knowing what I know now. I remember the Limp Bizkit set and I really enjoyed their show, though I wasn't quite sure what to make of the break dancers. That was kinda odd. But I like the blend of Urban and alternative rock. It was fun!

Now Ice Cube... As much as I enjoyed his set, I don't think he was a good addition to this tour. In fact, I think it was a terrible idea. The audience was extremely restless and I heard more than one person screaming obscenities at him. It really dropped the momentum out from under the hype. You had some really great bands opening the show who warmed the crowd up. Then Ice Cube and the power in the room took a nose dive.

Fortunately, Rammstein came on and in my opinion totally upstaged Korn. They completely blew the roof off the place. It was awesome!

Now let's discuss the audio CD released to pump up ticket sales. It was nice to have a collection of performances of the show. However, I'm disappointed Rammstein only has one track on the disc. On the home video and DVD, they show two Rammstein songs. Still, at the time it was better than nothing. However, now... All these years later, Rammstein has a whole slew of live material for sale. DVDs and CDs. So this little item becomes less interesting. It is nice to have some of the other performances. There are a few things worth noting. Namely, Fred Durst from Limp Bizkit referring to the audience as "Baby" during their performance. "Do you like breakdancing, Baby?" It's funny and smart at the same time. Durst gets intimate with the audience without doing anything more than using a familiar term of endearment.

Then there's Jay Gordon of Orgy who's only comment comes at the beginning of 'Blue Monday'. He announces the song title, as if there's any doubt. With the most recognizable drum beat and melody, this little blurb is both redundant and absurd. Better by far to introduce the band's original material. The 'Intro'/'Interlude' s are more annoying than transitioning. I would strongly suggest avoiding this release unless you were a die-hard fan trying to complete a collection of one of the groups in question.

If you missed the show... You really missed out. It was an awesome experience and I will never forget how much fun I had. My final word: WORTHLESS.

FAMILY VALUES - TOUR '98
01. Intro
02. Incubus - New Skin
03. interlude #1
04. Orgy - Dissention
05. Orgy - Gender
06. Orgy - Blue Monday
07. Interlude #2
08. Limp Bizkit - Cambodia
09. Limp Bizkit - Faith
10. Limp Bizkit - Jump Around
11. Interlude #3
12. Ice Cube - Check Yo Self (Remix)
13. Ice Cube - Natural Born Killaz
14. Ice Cube - Straight Outta Compton/F* Tha Police
15. Interlude #4
16. Rammstein - Du Hast
17. Interlude #5
18. Korn - Shot Liver Medley
19. Korn - Freak On A Leash
20. Korn - Twist/Chi
21. Korn - Got The Life

ULTRAVOX - LAMENT

Ultravox was probably more popular in Europe than in the United States. I was really into the New Romantic scene or New Wave, and I was following everything coming out under that category. Of course, not everything was good and some stuff was better than others. In the case of Ultravox, my first exposure to them was through a guy at a record store recommending them to me. He told me the best thing about Ultravox was years from now after music styles had changed, their material would still be classic. I didn't think much about that comment. It came back to me as I listened to this disc and I realized how right he was.

Ultravox had a turbulent history. The band I actually like isn't the original group. Rather, my fascination with them begins after Midge Ure joined the band. He knew one of the members through collaboration on the Visage project and was a fan of the original Ultravox. This chance meeting paved the way for the Ultravox I grew to love.

One of the things that really strikes you when you listen to this record is the strength of the material you're hearing. Each and every one of these tracks could have been released as a single. Musically, they have aggressive, powerful builds and each one is uniquely different from the next. From the outset, 'White China' grabs you and pulls you in. I've always thought this song was about Hong Kong eventually returning to communist rule. But when it was written, that transition was still years away. I don't know how else to interpret it. Metaphorically, it's about losing individualism and free choice. 'One Small Day' on the other hand is about developing an appreciation for life and seeing yourself the way others do. A very inspirational tune. 'Dancing With Tears In My Eyes' has an almost apocalyptic feel to it. It seems suicidal to a certain degree. Of the songs thus far, this is the least interesting musically, but I do enjoy the authentic piano playing to the fore. It's always been an interesting staple for a new wave group to include acoustic instruments amongst the electronic.

'Lament' is a singular tune. When it first starts, you're reminded of that Phil Collins song, 'In The Air Tonight' except this was written first. Once again, that luscious piano moves to the front to play the chorus melody. I feel a sense of longing and dissatisfaction when I hear this song. It makes me think of how disappointing a failed love can be. 'Man Of Two Worlds' actually sounds like a forerunner to something Rammstein would do. I can actually hear Rammstein covering this tune. There's definitely a sense of division here. The chorus plays in abrupt juxtaposition to the verses. 'Heart Of The Country' starts with an interesting drum pattern and progresses in a march of sorts. Appropriate for a song about being manipulated and deceived by political propaganda. 'When The Time Comes' is one of my favorite tracks. It's anticipating a broken heart. You remain in a situation even though you know it's bad for you. Because you know, "when the time comes (you'll) cry." What a brilliant take on love and loss. 'A Friend I Call Desire' has the bass section of a punk song. Vocally, there's a distance in Ure's delivery that creates a sense of separation. He distances himself from his feelings. Even though he innately understands they're a part of him.

Obviously, I really like this disc. I like Midge Ure and I like Ultravox. But if you don't believe me, give this disc a fair shake and tell me what you think. Can you hear what I hear in these wonderful tunes? My final word: ENDURING.

ULTRAVOX - LAMENT
01. White China
02. One Small Day
03. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes
04. Lament
05. Man Of Two Worlds
06. Heart Of The Country
07. When The Time Comes
08. A Friend I Call Desire

ORGY - CANDYASS

Orgy came out on the heels of Marilyn Manson, Rammstein, Rob Zombie and other go-go metal acts. My first exposure to this group was seeing them perform live. They were part of a festival show I saw. I quite liked them live and when I saw the CD, I picked it up. My opinion of Orgy is kinda strange. I like them... Especially some of their later stuff. The first album isn't all that great though. There's all the elements of a great industrial metal disc and yet, none of the songs really jump out and grab you. Each one has an interesting hook at one point or another, but nothing that sets it apart from anything else at the time. Sadly, it came across as rather generic for the time.

There seems to be a preoccupation with shocking lyrics. Especially at the time Orgy came on the scene. Including words like razor, rape... seemed to be a way for bands to make themselves seem very anti-social. But with so many acts writing and producing outrageous music, the little lyrical dabbling of Orgy seems almost silly. Later on, the band seemed to move into a more mature view of things. Their subject matter extended to things beyond the typical overblown drama of ridiculous teenage angst. There's a lot of songs dealing with the miasma of petty relationships. Not to devalue a relationship in any way, but there are those people, and you know who I'm talking about, who constantly go on and on about their boyfriend/girlfriend and drive the world crazy by over-analyzing every single minutiae of every single detail... It's too much. And for some reason, the lyrics of this album make me feel like I'm being bombarded by someone's life I just don't care about.

The New Order cover is pretty exciting and better than the original. It's actually the song that got me into them. At one point I had the single but it's since been appropriated by those who plundered my collection. I like Orgy, and I like the album ok. Just not a stand out performance. Still, it's got a great title. My final words: ANGST DRIBBLE.

ORGY - CANDYASS
01. Social Enemies
02. Stitches
03. Dissention
04. Platinum
05. Fetisha
06. Fiend
07. Blue Monday
08. Gender
09. All The Same
10. Pantomime
11. Revival
12. Dizzy