"Loving You" testament to Elvis' artistry: So what does a young, charismatic, and good looking singer, who is the most successful musical artist in the country do for an encore? He heads to Hollywood to star in a movie of course.
Loving You was a pieced together affair which included songs from the movie, previously released tracks from an EP, plus a couple more from the studio. It all added up to a very good album but ultimately not of the quality of his first two ground breaking LPs. Nevertheless, released in July of 1957, Loving You would remain the number one album in the country for ten weeks. Even my mother had a copy of this album. |
 |
The cover does Elvis justice. Even at seven years old, I am quite sure I sensed that I was not that good looking. My wife would probably agree today. All right eliminate the word probably.
Elvis would make a seemingly unending string of mostly forgettable movies. They would contain some excellent songs and a lot of what can best be described as filler. Elvis would never have a song nominated for an academy award, even though there were certainly songs from many of his films that should have been so honored.
The album starts out on a strong note. “Mean Woman Blues” is an all out rocker in the classic Presley tradition. “(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear” is the first of what would become an Elvis performance that would be halfway between rock and pop. It featured a catchy melody with a great smooth vocal and would hit number one on the singles charts. “Loving You” was an effective ballad, both in the movie and on its own. “Got A Lot Of Living To Do” was another driving up-tempo song.
Elvis does as well as he can with “Lonesome Cowboy” and “Hot Dog.” The songs are weak and would be forerunners of his future film material. Elvis’ manager, Colonel Tom Parker, hired writers to churn out material for Elvis’ movies. He would retain some of the rights and make millions.
The second half of the album finds Elvis experimenting with material from different styles of music. “Blueberry Hill” is a cover of the great Fats Domino song and while Elvis give a good performance, I miss Fats. “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” had been recorded by The Sons Of The Pioneers and Bing Crosby among others. Here Elvis takes this old warhorse in a country direction and gives a wonderful performance. “I Need You So” by Ivory Joe Hunter and Cole Porter’s “True Love” are average performances for Elvis.
Loving You will be forever associated with Elvis’ movie material. Taken on its own, however, it does have some excellent moments and is still worth a listen now and then. ( Source: David Bowling, BC Review, June 2008)
'HIGH VOLTAGE' - Birmingham 1976, CD review: There can be no doubt that Elvis' 29th December concert in Birmingham, Alabama in 1976 was one of his best concerts in a long while, on a par with his legendary New Year's Eve concert of 2 days later. The original bootleg ‘Burning In Birmingham’ was always a favourite among collectors but contained a lot of background audio hiss and the sound was pretty flat - especially compared to Elvis’ dynamic performance on the night. This new release however is not only in stereo but is now presented with a stylish 16-page booklet full of classic photographs from the concert itself. In this detailed review EIN's Piers Beagley visits an old friend.....
(CD Reviews, Source; EIN)
|
 |
She Is the King - 'Comeback' CD review: Let's get it straight from the start, "Elvis male impersonators - Who needs them?!" But here is something entirely different - and quite an exciting counterpoint too, a female Elvis ETA releasing a CD of classic Elvis songs. 'She Is The King' - Jacqueline Feilich - is the only woman ever to be selected by EPE to compete in the worldwide Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition and she has already achieved quite an impressive international following. Visually and musically she is imbued with a number of iconic Elvis qualities but can she carry it through to an album of Elvis covers? Well her fans won't be disappointed as EIN's Piers Beagley discovers. Go here for full review. (CD Reviews, Source: EIN, February 2008) |
 |
.
| 'ELVIS Viva Las Vegas': BMG CD review: While BMG’s 'The King' was the key focus of this year's BMG Elvis marketing blitz, the real highlight for true fans of The King had to be this fantastic double CD. From the concert opening, "Well, It's One for the money, Two for the show" through to the smart finale of "Well, I gotta go.." Elvis sings his heart out to a fine set-list, displaying a real enthusiasm for his oldies as well as showing off his new material. As a double package featuring a brand new 1969 concert with Elvis at his most energetic, along with a superb selection of greatest live hits in pristine audio quality - Who could ask for more 30 years down the track? EIN's Piers Beagley cranks it up, rocks with The King and discovers exactly why every Elvis fan must buy this CD. (Source: EIN, November 2007) |
 |
'The Essential Elvis Presley‘ vs ‘The King’: Two very similar double CD Elvis ‘Greatest Hits’ compiles were released by BMG in the first half of 2007. Continuous release of these same old compiles is exactly why The Beatles & Garth Brooks garner so many recognised "RIAA Gold Sales" and dominate Elvis in the gold sales statistics - when of course Elvis in absolute total must have sold more. EIN wonders if everyone in BMG/SONY marketing is related to Colonel Parker as they still continue to flog the same old horse. If ever there was a prima-facie case of BMG/RCA pumping out too much of the similar Elvis product, then the releasing of ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ (40 Greatest tracks) within a few months of their 30th Anniversary "key" marketing release ‘The King’ (52 Greatest hits) must be exhibit number One. EIN's Piers Beagley investigates.
| 'The Essential Elvis Presley': CD review: Released by BMG/SONY at the start of 2007 in order to add Elvis to Sony's "Essential" artist series. With the overall packaging, sleeve notes, good photos and the "a little different" track selection 'The Essential Elvis Presley' can be rated as a fine companion to their series. The audio sparkles and the CDs present a good, if brief, look at Elvis’ musical legacy. However as always there is more to consider and wonder about when it comes to marketing Elvis' greatest hits. (Source: EIN, November 2007) |
 |
| 'The King': CD review: Released by BMG/SONY as their 30th Anniversary Elvis "key" marketing release , one would have hoped that some thought and inspiration could have been used by their Project Directors. But why bother? - Of course, due to the timing and marketing ‘The King’ became an international number One – and so why should fans complain? As always there is more to consider and wonder about when it comes to marketing Elvis' greatest hits - and you get the feeling that BMG/SONY will be laughing all the way to the bank with this one. EIN's Piers Beagley investigates. (Source: EIN, November 2007) |
 |
|
VIVA LAS VEGAS, CD #2 (Sony/BMG 2007): Crister Berge from Sweden offers EIN readers his take on the "live" album which forms one disc of the Viva Las Vegas release:
In one word Cris says: Sensational!
.........................Read the full review....................
|
 |
'It's Now Or Never' Robert Gordon/Chris Spedding CD review: Robert Gordon doing Elvis Presley sounds like a natural. People have been asking for it since Robert's Private Stock days, but Robert was always afraid of being tagged another "impersonator". Over the years, he has sporadically done Elvis covers, and they served as tantalising glimpses of what we could expect from a Robert Gordon "Elvis" album. EIN contributor Arjan Deelen spins the CD to see if Robert Gordon can really cut it on this new tribute to Elvis.
(Source:EIN/Arjan Deelen) |
 |
MRS release another winner!: The MRS organisation has done it again. Its Elvis Presley New York RCA Studio 1 The Complete Sessions DVD/CD/book (digipack) package is chock full of sublime audio, visual and narrative treats.
The CD offers remastered and restored by Real Bouwman from high quality 24 bit/94k resolution!!! The album features 11 Master tracks, Elvis interviewed by Don Davis, and 24 intriguing session takes. The music is glorious, at times resonating with the searing power and energy of rock 'n' roll's King and at other times beautifully tender.
The recordings range from Blue Suede Shoes and Anyway You Want Me to Tutti Frutti, Don't Be Cruel and So Glad You're Mine. Also in the mix is Hound Dog, My Baby Left Me, One Sided Love Affair and I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Cry Over You; and when supplemented by 12 takes each of Lawdy Miss Clawdy and Shake Rattle and Roll listening is an absolute aural delight.
The CD also includes three bonus tracks: My Baby Left Me and So Glad You're Mine performed by Arthur "Big Boy" Crudup; and Hound Dog from Freddie Bell and the Bell Boys.
The DVD-Audio in 5.1 Dolby Digital features the same tracks (bar the three bonus tracks) as the CD, remastered in high quality 24 bit 96 kHz sound accompanied by rare photographs. For those who have experienced the earlier DVD-Audio releases from MRS you know the very high quality on offer. For those who haven't experienced DVD-Audio this is your opportunity to listen to Elvis as you've never listened to him before!!!
The 68 page book features strong design and high quality paper stock. There are many rare photographs from the famous Alfred Wertheimer Elvis Archives as well as some from the Joseph A. Tunzi Archives; archival session material; and a blow by blow account of Elvis' recording process in the studio.
The visuals are a stunning mix of b&w and color including a knock-out color shot - watch the female fans swoon (page 13) and a hauntingly expressive double page b&w image (pages 56-7).
EIN will publish a full review of Elvis Presley New York RCA Studio 1 The Complete Sessions shortly. (Source: EIN, 13 Nov 2007)
Cyrus out-Elvises Elvis: Elvis Presley was a lot of things. He was a rags-to-riches success story. He borrowed blues and gospel licks from the black performers he admired and introduced them to a mainstream audience. He wasn't a mere American Idol, but the king himself. But he didn't really know how to tell a woman to "Love Me Tender," singing the song with a syrupy sincerity that's rarely the best way to a lover's heart.
Cyrus Chestnut, on the other hand, knows how to conjure up a spirit of genuine romance. Just listen to the jaunty jazz pianist's reinvention of "Love Me Tender" on his new CD, Cyrus Plays Elvis. It's a great example of how a gifted musician can take a sappy song and set it free. |
 |
The much-heard melody, lifted from an old Civil War ballad, rings out with newfound oomph, sounding insistent yet dreamy. Chestnut reinvigorates the song with lush chords, playful grace notes, worshipful tremolos and effortless runs up and down the 88s. Sometimes, the melody disappears altogether before returning, as if by magic. Chestnut works over the keyboard to win over the unnamed object of his desire, and it's hard to imagine anyone not giving in. (CD Review, Source: NPR Music, Nov 2007)
'The American Way Vol.5 - Goin' Home To Memphis': CD SNEAK PREVIEW : Last week EIN received a test pressing of 'The American Way Vol.5: Goin' Home To Memphis' the final instalment in this great series from the Southern Comfort label. Elvis' 1969 ‘American Studio’ sessions are featured in the first half of the CD and include some fabulous and unknown "Rough Mixes". We also get to hear Elvis Live in 1970, while the amazingly rare outakes of the 1968 'Goin Home' sessions fill the CD up to the brim. To be honest my house has been rockin' with the funk all week - and I have also been laughin' my *** off. Does an Elvis reviewer's life get any more fun than this! Although this is not the absolute final product, please enjoy our special Sneak Preview. Make sure you don't miss out. (Source: EIN, September 2007) |
 |
Terry Mike Jeffrey featuring Charlie Hodge and Duke Bardwell
"An Elvis Tribute Show" (CD Review):
On October 19, 2003, renowned Elvis stylist, Terry Mike Jeffrey, took to the stage in Kunstmin, Dordrecht, The Netherlands to deliver a powerhouse show to an appreciative audience at the "Elvis 2nd To None" Convention organised by the Dutch fan club, It's Elvis Time.
Accompanying Jeffrey were one time bass player for Elvis, Duke Bardwell, and Elvis' "scarves and water man", Charlie Hodge.
"An Elvis Tribute Album" is a strong show which delicately moves between foot stomping rockers and poignant ballads to soul stirring gospel standards. Read full review (Source: EIN, 1 Sep 2007) |
 |
New dance remix will appeal to long time fans: Leading Australian ETA, Mick Gerace, launches his new remix single on August 16 ahead of its release by Sony BMG Australia. The recording is a "dance" remix of the sublime but little known Elvis track, (I Got A) Feeling In My Body. Backing Gerace is none other than the Sweet Inspirations.
As is needed to bring Elvis' music to a new generation, "(I Got A) Feeling In My Body" has very competently used current production techniques and styles to give a classic track a contemporary feel and vibe. Read full review and hear sample of the song (Source: EIN, 12 Aug 2007) |
 |
'The American Way Vol.4 - SOUND of the CITY': CD review: Released by Southern Comfort this CD continues their look at Elvis' astounding 1969 sessions at Chips Moman's American Studios in Memphis. ‘Sound Of The City’ features multiple takes of songs that all present a different emotion which the down-town streets of Memphis often generate. This is Elvis creatively revitalised, working at his peak and all beautifully presented with complete versions no fade-outs and some nice eavesdropping on the group at work. A revealing fly-on-the-wall documentary of Elvis as he rediscovers his musical roots. EIN's Piers Beagley digs deep and explains how a 10 seconds "whoompa" from Elvis’ musical legacy can make him shudder with their true magnificence. (Source: EIN, July 2007) |
 |
"Elvis At The Movies" capsule review: ElvisCDResearch has issued its review of the latest Sony BMG Elvis release. It says (12 July 2007):
The latest double album release from Sony BMG offers nothing new but pleases with its strong sound quality. With 40 tracks, it features a largely different song line up than on last year's 'Elvis Movies' album. The mastering by Vic Anesini is a real strength as both Elvis' vocal and backing are crystal clear. Pump up the volume and enjoy!
|
 |
The inclusion of lesser released tracks like Lonely Man (Wild In The Country); I'm Yours (Tickle Me); Do The Clam (Girl Happy); This Is My Heaven (Paradise, Hawaiian Style) and The Love Machine (Easy Come, Easy Go) add variety to the release.
The double album is attractively packaged in digi pack format and complemented by a two sided fold out poster which includes a narrative essay on Elvis' celluloid career by Michael Hill.
ElvisCDResearch 5 Star ratings are:
for the Hardcore Fan: 
for the Casual CD Buyer:
"Elvis At The Movies" reviewed: We came across this review on Simon Barrett's blog spot.
I’ll cut to the chase here, if you are an Elvis fan here is the link, you need read no more, just click on it and buy it. For the rest of you, I will try to present a review. Elvis played in a huge number of movies in his career, I believe the total was 31! Elvis was larger than life, in life, and maybe is even larger posthumously. He died in 1977 yet the CD’s keep coming out. |
 |
This is a two CD collection of 40 of his most famous movie songs. Sony – BMG have done a great job of cleaning up the audio, the quality of the audio makes it sound as if it was recorded yesterday. I am sure the National Enquirer will pick up on this aspect, and will be publishing some stories about how this CD was actually recorded last summer, in some small town in Nebraska, using the very best modern equipment.
Love Me Tender from 1956 is the earliest, and 39 songs later we have Rubberneckin from 1969 which appeared in The Change Of Habit. Using my High School math, this means that Elvis pumped out 2 or more movies a year. Very few stars can make that claim. I can offer no review of his acting ability, I will leave that to more qualified people. I can offer my personal thoughts about his music. Without doubt he was the most prolific and successful performer for an entire generation.
Many performers have tried to ‘cross over’ into the world of movies, and most have failed. The Beatles, The Who, and even David Bowie, they all tried this track and maybe they did not exactly fail, but they certainly did not succeed. Elvis on the other hand, not only succeeded, but grew from the experience. His 1961 Blue Hawaii was not only a hit movie, but the title track (album) was Number 1 on the Billboard charts for 20 weeks! There are not many artists that can claim this sort of success.
During this period of singing and acting, Elvis managed to accumulate 14, Gold and Platinum awards for his soundtracks alone. Again using my basic High School math, and Baseball parlance, that is batting at pretty close to 500. You may not be an Elvis fan, but you certainly cannot ignore his influence on a three decade era. You can get this double CD from Amazon. (Source: Simon Barrett, 14 June 2007)
'The American Way Vol.3 - Movin And Groovin': CD review: Released by Southern Comfort this CD features five tracks from Elvis' astounding 1969 sessions at Chips Moman's American Studios in Memphis. This is Elvis creatively revitalised and working at his peak, and at last this series presents the complete sessions, chronologically and with nothing missing. With new studio rehearsals and chatter we get a fly-on-the-wall look at Elvis rediscovering his musical roots and playing with one of the coolest bands in town. But with a lot this material previously released is there really more to discover? EIN's Piers Beagley investigates.. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, April 2007) |
 |
.
CD Review - "Memories of Elvis": Australia's "Voice of Elvis", El Gamble, is back with another sublime album of 20 well known and not so well known Elvis tracks.
It is this balance between the familiar and not so familiar which gives Memories of Elvis much of its power, a power nicely complemented by a pleasing mix of rock, ballad and spiritual recordings, and El Gamble's trademark Elvis vocal. (Source: EIN, March 2007) |
 |
| 'Chaos In College Park' - CD review: Elvis' reputed worst-ever concert - why should it even be released? Possibly detrimental to Elvis' glorious legacy, this 'import' CD is one of the most controversial releases of the year. Elvis was certainly on bad form on this 1974 Opening Night, but was he really that terrible? BMG/FTD could never consider releasing this concert, yet it has to have a certain fascination to Elvis collectors. EIN's Piers Beagley presents an in-depth examination of this chaotic concert of September 27th 1974 - as well as looking at Elvis' performance the following night. Nearly 30 years after his death, does Elvis' legacy still need to be air-brushed to keep its glory intact, or can we accept him for all his human faults? (Source: EIN, November 2006) |
 |
"Elvis r &b" (CD Review): EIN's Piers Beagley took time out from his overseas holiday to delve indside the aural delights of one of the latest Elvis releases from Sony BMG. Yet another compilation CD with upgraded sound, Piers found it has a surprising appeal.
Read Piers' detailed track-by-track review (CD Review, Source: EIN, October 2006) |
 |
'Elvis: Live' - CD review: Although aimed at the General Public, this could be a very fine compilation for all Elvis fans. Including the magnificent 'In Person' version of 'Suspicious Minds', as well as a hardly-played 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' this is a clever selection which also features upgraded audio. Can this mid-price genre CD really be that good? EIN's Piers Beagley explores. (CD Review, Source: EIN, Sept 2006) |
 |
'Almost In Love' Camden CD review: Another budget Elvis CD, short & sweet - but is it what we really want to see in the records shops? Are these new budget compiles once again diluting Elvis' back-catalogue? Is this lightweight fluff or fabulous nostalgia? Are there any hidden gems or has the wily old Colonel Parker made a comeback? EIN's Piers Beagley investigates. (CD Reviews, Source: EIN) |
 |
| 'Elvis: Has left the building' CD review: Every year, when August comes around, all true Elvis fans needs to reflect on what might have been - and what a great loss we feel. This CD, released by Rock Legends in 2003, perfectly captures the emotions of that surreal night in 1977, and is a very poignant & moving reminder of Elvis and his amazing effect worldwide. Here EIN plays it one more time. (Source: EIN, August 2003/2006) |
 |
| "Echoes of the King" (CD Review): Is the latest El Gamble CD the best Elvis tribute album of 2006? EIN's Nigel Patterson explores the aural delights of a stunning studio recording. (Source: EIN) |
 |
'One Night Only!' - CD review: Madison releases an upgraded version of an old bootleg favourite, 'The Power Of Shazam'. Showcasing Elvis' once-off performance in Boston, November 10th 1971, the concert captures Elvis in great form and enjoying the larger crowds away from the Vegas/Tahoe casinos. Live recordings of Elvis in 1971 are few & far between. Here EIN's Piers Beagley explores the concert and investigates if a 35-year old cassette recording can really sound that impressive. (CD Review, Source: EIN, June 2006) |
 |
| 'Hail To The King' MOJO Magazine CD Review: The British music magazine MOJO, May 2006, is in Australian 'import' stores right now. Their free CD highlights include the well-known; Jerry Lee Lewis’ burning ‘Don’t Be Cruel’, & Johnny Cash's ‘I Forgot To Remember To Forget’. It's a wild & fascinating view of Elvis through other musician’s eyes. A fine tribute to rock's greatest revolutionary. (CD Review: Source: EIN, May 2006) |
 |
| 'Elvis Country' - CD review: 'Elvis Country' is part of Sony BMG's new "genre" series. Elvis was always at his best when the lyrics reflected his own moods and this interesting selection captures the sadness, loneliness & regret he felt through his final years. Skilfully avoiding the repeat of recently released songs, if you are in the right mood then this is the best in BMG's new series. EIN pours out a “Water glass full of whiskey” and soaks in these country vibes. (Source: EIN, April 2006) |
 |
"Elvis rock" (CD Review): 'Elvis rock' is part of Sony BMG's new "genre" series. Featuring 20 of The King's classic rock recordings and mastered by Vic Anesini at Sony Studios in New York, all the "genre" releases feature DSD audio technology for optimal sound quality. EIN delves into the aural delights of 'Elvis rock' and finds The King's vocal is nice and clear on all tracks. (Source: EIN)
|
 |
| 'Pieces Of My Life' - CD review: Yet another import CD from an audience recording, but Elvis’ Closing Show from Asheville July 24, 1975 happens to be a stunner. EIN’s Piers Beagley checks out one of Elvis’ best-ever shows from his last 2 years, with him singing a very unusual set-list. Everything from ‘Return To Sender’ to ‘Wooden Heart’ to ‘Shake A Hand’ and of course ‘Pieces Of My Life’ gets selected. FTD needs to find the soundboard on this one.(CD Review, Source: EIN, March 2006) |
 |
'Elvis~ A Legendary Performer Volume 7' - CD Review: Following The Colonel’s marketing example of ‘too much is never enough’, Madison released yet another volume in their ‘Legendary Performer’ series. With their high productions values can this really be as good as the first two in the series, or is that the sound of scrapping at the bottom of the barrel that we can hear! EIN’s Piers Beagley opens the lid and looks into the depths. (Source: EIN) |
 |
| "Memphis Recording Service" - simply stunning book and audio release!: Joseph Pirzada's Memphis Recording Service delivers fans an exquisite and well balanced offering of visual, aural and narrative elements in a superbly designed fold-out package. EIN takes a detailed aural and visual trip inside one of 2005's finest Elvis releases. (Book/Audio CD Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
.
| All Shook Up - A Reggae Tribute to The King - CD Review: Forget those lame Elvis reggae bootleg-remixes that have recently been doing the E-Bay circuit, this is the real thing! All types of reggae "Elvis-style" are featured, from laid-back lovers-rock to 1960’s ska and even dub-reggae! Can this really be as good as hoped? EIN's Piers Beagley chills-out on a summer beach, with his boom-box turned up, to truly investigate. (CD Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
| 'Hitstory' - in depth CD Review: Three CDs featuring 91 of Elvis' greatest chart successes. BMG promised, "With hits from all three decades in which Presley recorded, 'The Story Continues' is an essential collection". So is it really 'value for money' or 'another BMG rip-off' for Elvis fans? EIN's Piers Beagley digs deep and discovers what the other reviewers have missed. (CD Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
USA edition of "Hitstory" rewrites gaffes from Elvis 30 #1s: "To clarify previous reviews...this is not "Nothing New." The first one disc comp 30 #1s presented alternate versions of A Big Hunk o' Love, A Fool Such As I, and The Wonder of You. On top of that all stereo songs were remixed. Suspicious Minds has been subjected to flanging.
Now in gathering the two CDs (the above mentioned 30 #1s and 2nd to None) the correct versions are used and not remixed. Vic Anesini did a wonderful job on this! The third disc gathers 19 additional top twenty singles. The title Hitstory is earned on an 80 songs comp that delivers the hit singles!"
EIN Note: Brian O'Marra's review relates to the US edition of Hitstory not the EC/Australia edition. EIN also disputes the 'good job' done with CD3. (CD Review, Source: Brian O'Marra) |
|
| Elvis by the Presleys (CD Review): While this could be seen as 'just another compilation’, EIN's Piers Beagley finds some audio delights in the last part of the 'Elvis By The Presleys' marketing blitz. The 5 unreleased tracks, including a new take of Jailhouse Rock, along with nice packaging makes this release worth investigating. (CD Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
"Black & White Elvis" (CD Review): "Black & White Elvis," a double-CD collection released by Mood Music in their Mood Classics series, does not pretend to present original versions of the forty-eight tracks that make up the set. Instead, Alex Jay, the compiler, presents older versions of songs later recorded by Elvis and uses them to demonstrate the influences and impressions to which Elvis might have been exposed. Just about all of the numbers
were, indeed, later recorded by Elvis himself, but this is almost a very happy coincidence. (CD Review, Source: David Neale, July 2005) |
 |
All Shook Up - the Broadway album: "All Shook Up, the musical at the Palace, left me distinctly unstirred. The CD, from the new Sony BMG combine, is somewhat more interesting". (CD Review, Source: Steven Suskind, Playbill News)
|
 |
| The
Tom Green Show: Only a
handful of Elvis tribute artists can truly lay claim
to having a voice that sounds remarkably like Elvis'...and
Tom Green is one of them! Tom
Green's albums with their strong "Elvis" vocals
and excellent arrangements easily rank him as one of
the world's pre-eminent Elvis vocalists. EIN
reviews six of his albums. (CD
Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
| Elvis:
A Legendary Performer Vol.5 – (Madison): With
hard-core Elvis collectors complaining about too much
already available material dominating this new import
CD, EIN’s Piers Beagley was wary as he explored this
new homage to old RCA producer Joan Deary. However what
he discovered was a clever, stylish and cheeky box of
Elvis delights! (CD Review, Source:
EIN) |
 |
| "Now
What" review: The Associated Press published
this review of Lisa's second album on 5 April. (CD
Review, Source: AP, 5 April 2005) |
 |
| In
the King's Shadow, Volume 1: There are literally
hundreds of albums featuring Elvis tribute artists.
While most are instantly forgettable, once in a while
a singer comes along with a voice that is eerily reminiscent
of The King. (CD
Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
| "Lust,
Elvis" – The unreleased BMG CD: Elvis was just
a natural great-looking, sex-god and surely that deserves
a CD worth of celebration. EIN suggests that instead
of "Love, Elvis" BMG should have celebrated something
even more natural! (CD Review, Source:
EIN) |
 |
| CD
Review - Love, Elvis: I mean, what's the point?
Do we really need a 94th rehashing of the King's back
catalogue? BMG's shameless cashing in on the Presley
legacy seems to be showing no signs of slowing down
so here we are with "Love, Elvis". Of course,
the songs are great, but unless you are so totally anal
that you have to own 'The previously unreleased alternate
take 3 of "For The Good Times" I can see absolutely
no reason for buying this album. (Source:
Scott Adams, BMA, Issue 223, 10 March 2005, Australia) |
 |
| CD
Review - Elvis The Cover-Up: This
unusual release from Memory Records is a tantalising
mix of high quality "audience" recordings
and interviews from around August 1977 and the TV show 20/20 in 1979. An historic record recommended
for anyone interested in what happened around that fateful
day in August 1977. (CD Review, Source:
EIN) |
 |
| Bilko's
Gold Cuts: EIN investigates the new “Best of” import CD, and discovers some interesting facts that
others seem to have missed. While it does contain several
gems, a surprising number of tracks have already been
released on FTD. (CD Review, Source:
EIN) |
 |
| "Elvis
Today" album revisited: Our recent posting
about the July 2005 release of the updated classic album, "Elvis Today" caused a lot of interest. Ernst Jorgensen
recently confirmed with EIN that CD2 will feature the
Felton Jarvis produced, original Rick Ruggieri "RCA
rough-mix". In this interesting article EIN’s Piers
Beagley delves a little deeper into ‘Today’ to find
out why it was Elvis’ final great LP and highlights
some great new cover artwork from Spinout Designs.
(Source: EIN) |
 |
Love,
Elvis: EIN's Piers Beagley listened to the latest
BMG offering and came away with mixed feelings. Read Piers'
detailed review of the disc and his interesting marketing
suggestions for BMG. (CD Review, Source:
EIN)
| Love,
Elvis - independent review: And just in time for
Valentine's Day! I'm not going to insist that Elvis's
love songs are better than any of his others (blues
rockin' greats like All Shook Up, Jailhouse Rock, Hound
Dog etc.), which of course many of them are, but I will
say that they are the best representation of the caricaturized
cultural icon Elvis was to become: overromanced sexualizer
and seducer as well as overripened cheesebag. S'all
good. Love, Elvis compiles a number of the best, though
by no means all, of Elvis's love songs and ballads,
titles like Can't Help Falling in Love; Love Me Tender;
I Want You, I Need You, I Love You and Surrender among
them, though the album is weighted dangerously toward
the front - by the time you get to some of the second-rate
songs at album's end, the ardour's been lost.
(CD Review, Source: Jamie O'Meara, hour.ca) |
|
| Dirty
Laundry - Lisa Presley's new single reviewed:
With a less dark (but just as potent) lyric than tracks
on her first album (To Whom It May Concern),
the first single from Lisa's second album, What Now,
is a good choice for her strong, deep vocal. (CD
Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
| ‘We
have Not Rehearsed Them’: EIN's Piers Beagley
reviews this collection of audience recordings released
on the Catfish Records label. It features a variety
of rare and great performances, unfortunately let down
by the poor sound.
(CD Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
| The
Continuing Story of Memory Records: EIN's Piers Beagley has a listen to what is essentially
a "best of audience recordings" release from
Czechoslovakia's Memory Records. (CD
Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
.
| Christmas
Peace: We found this review of Elvis' yuletide recordings
while searching the net: "Elvis Presley's catalog
of Christmas albums is second to none. Unlike many other
singers, his interpretations of traditional festive hymns
like Silent Night and the First Noel never felt like a
novelty compromise but a seasonal continuation of his
immense repertoire. |
 |
Favourites
like Blue Christmas and Merry Christmas Baby are filled with
his bluesy, rock'n'roll character while I'll Be Home On Christmas
Day and It Won't Seem Like Christmas (Without You) are yearning
with lonesome melancholy and reflection. His voice is as emotive
and comforting as ever and the string-laden arrangements smoother
than Bailey's with ice. So if you're sick of the office party
cheese and need something with more substance and distinction
this 20-track collection of The King's finest Christmas recordings
is a good place to turn. We may not get a white Christmas this
year but Elvis will always ensure we get a good dose of blues.
Every home should have a copy." (CD Review,
Source:Staff Reporter, icWales)
| Movin'
Mobile: How
well does Madison's latest unofficial CD rate? Piers Beagley
takes a close listen to this June 1975 soundboard and
offers his views.
(CD Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
| Fort
Baxter's Greatest Hits: The name Fort Baxter,
like Bilko, 2001, Rock Legends and Madison, is synonymous
with the best unofficial releases in the Elvis world and
their Thank you very much greatest hits release
was eagerly anticipated by many fans. EIN's Elvis musicphile,
Piers Beagley, tells you why this is one of the best releases,
official or unofficial, in recent years. (CD
Review, Source: EIN) |
 |
Let
Elvis cast the late night spell on you!: EIN's Piers
Beagley turned off the lights and sampled Elvis The 50 Greatest
Love Songs. Here's what he found. (CD Review,
Source: EIN)
The Rocker: Robert Palmer has reviewed one of the original concept albums released around Elvis' music:
Elvis Presley, who was born almost 50 years ago, on Jan. 8, 1935, has long been recognized as one of America's most gifted, distinctive and influential popular singers. He applied his deft, fluid phrasing, derived from blues and gospel music, to songs from the rhythm-and-blues, country, pop and gospel idioms and developed an overtly sensual, largely black-derived performance style. He was the first American popular singer to intuitively understand and creatively exploit the then nascent medium of television, which made him a star almost overnight. In one stroke, he changed the sound, the look and the feel of our popular music.......
But Mr. Presley paid a price for breaking so many barriers and becoming so enormously popular. His manager, Col. Tom Parker, packaged him like toothpaste or soap........
But now, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Mr. Presley's birth, RCA is redeeming itself with a comprehensive program that includes the re-release of the early Presley singles and albums, pressed on the best vinyl without the fake stereo, and a bounty of previously unreleased performances from Mr. Presley's golden years, roughly 1954-1960. Read full review (Vinyl Review, Source: New York Times)
The Roots
of Elvis: If you really want to know why Elvis grabbed
black rhythm & blues music by the throat and made it his
own, then you need to read Piers Beagley's review of an album
showcasing seminal music by the artists who influenced The
King. (Source: EIN)
When is a
review not a review?: we found this review(?) of
Elvis At Sun in an Australian regional entertainment
magazine. You be the judge. (Elvis CD Review,
Source: BMA)
Elvis
Presley The Last 24 Hours: EIN takes a detailed look
at this recently released DVD/CD. The stories told by members
of the Memphis Mafia are candid and caring, if at times
unsettling. The release is packed with many bonus features and
professionally produced, and has a clear agenda. (DVD/CD Review, Source: EIN, 31 July
2004)
That's All
Right: EIN reviews the latest Elvis CD single from
BMG
Elvis At
Sun: Piers
Beagley dissects "a remarkable piece of music history".
Elvis
Ultimate Gospel: with nicely balanced sound and a
carefully selected track listing, BMG's new Elvis release is "near perfect". Piers Beagley takes us "inside" the
album.
I
Remember His First Love Song: Billy Rebel's new
tribute single allows the listener to recall a time now long
gone.
200
Cadillacs: superb new release features pounding
rockabilly and scorching lyrics.
Christmas
Peace: BMG's latest Elvis yuletide offering has
improved sound and is a 'snowy wonderland' of audio listening
pleasure.
Elvis 2nd To
None: does the follow up to last year's smash hit
album, 'Elvis 30 #1 Hits' live up to expectations? EIN
delivers the answer
25 Reasons
to get 'Close-Up' with Elvis: Piers
Beagley reviews the new 4CD boxset from BMG.
Close Up:
a second review of the BMG 4CD box set.
Let
Elvis cast the late night spell on you!: EIN's Piers
Beagley turned off the lights and sampled Elvis The 50
Greatest Love Songs. Here's what he found. (CD
Review, Source: EIN)
Live In Las
Vegas Simply Sensational: BMG's new Elvis box-set,
Live In Las Vegas is a lavish release showcasing Elvis at his
peak in the neon capital of the world. With great sound and a
detailed booklet this is another superb release that will
please fans.
Rubberneckin':
Billboard, the US music bible, reviews the new Elvis
re-mix by Paul Oakenfold.
"To Whom
It May Concern": Lisa Marie
Presley makes a powerful statement with her strong debut
album.
Lisa Marie
Presley's debut single "Lights Up": EIN reviews the
first single from Elvis' daughter.
Reading of the
Diary: unusual release is an hilarious send-up of
Elvis and the Memphis Mafia.
The
Greensboro Concert: exceptional CDR release features
superb sound and great packaging.
Don
Robertson Songs For Elvis and then I wrote...:EIN
reviews a great album release from a prolific writer of songs
for Elvis.
Elvis vs
JXL: Elvis' most important single since Suspicious
Minds!
Elvis 30#1
Hits: with its
digitally enhanced audio and sublime clasic hits, this releae
should be a mandatory Christmas buy. Piers Beagley dissects
the album, track by track.
Elvis 30
#! Hits on 5.1 Audio DVD: "A dream
come true" says EIN's Pier Beagley in this exhaustive look at
the first ever Elvis album released using the new
technology.
New CD from
Charly Records is an historical record of Presleymania & Elvis' eclectic musical roots: "Rockin' Tonight" is a
great double CD release showcasing The King at the frenzied
peak of his career.
The
Best of the Blue Hawaii Sessions: Piers Beagley steps
inside the recording studio as The King puts down tracks for
one of his most famous movies.
. |
Quote:
"I think Elvis Presley will never be solved"
(Nick Tosches)
Quote:
"He was the most popular man that ever walked on this planet since Christ himself was here"
(Carl Perkins)
Quote:
"When I first heard Elvis' voice I just knew I wasn't going to work for anybody...hearing him for the first time was like busting out of jail"
(Bob Dylan)
Quote:
"When we were kids growing up in Liverpool, all we ever wanted was to be Elvis Presley"
(Sir Paul McCartney)
|
