EIN provides comprehensive reviews of the FTD releases

Click here for non-FTD CD reviews

'I Sing All Kinds' FTD CD review: Ever since the excellent FTD ‘Nashville Marathon’ focused on Elvis’ recording sessions in 1970 there has been a demand from fans for a similar look at his 1971 sessions. Elvis certainly covered a lot of different musical genres in that year, from Christian Rock to Folk to Gospel and lonesome ballads. The title ‘I Sing All Kinds’ is most appropriate and the CD even features five Christmas songs! FTD have chosen a very eclectic selection of songs for the CD, but does it really work? EIN's Piers Beagley delves deep into a bunch of fascinating outtakes to find out. (FTD reviews, Source; EIN)

Is the new 'T.T.W.I.I' Classic Album release just a rehash of the 30th Anniversary BMG issue? The April FTD release of 'That's The Way It Is' is an interesting one with several fans writing to EIN saying that FTD's recently announced 'TTWII' deluxe Classic Album release is only a revisit of the BMG 30th Anniversary 3-CD TTWII' Special Edition and not worth ordering. As Elvis fans often complain of being forced to buy the same material repeatedly for only a couple of new Elvis snippets - are they being ripped off once again? EIN's Piers Beagley checks out the details and reasons that this FTD version will in fact become a firm favourite. (News, Source; EIN)

'Wild In the Country' FTD Soundtrack - Two reviews: The fourteenth FTD extended movie soundtrack is all the more intriguing since 'Wild In The Country' was never released as a vinyl soundtrack, not even as an Extended Play. With only five songs in total this FTD soundtrack had the potential of being a lightweight and rather repetitive compilation with little of interest. Two tracks never saw the light of day until 4 years later! - EIN presents two reviews of differing opinions.  Click here to see what delights EIN's ever-obsessive reviewer Piers Beagley found in his in-depth review. Click here to see why Sweden's Crister Berge was not that impressed with the rather weak choice of material. (FTD reviews, Source; EIN)

'An American Trilogy' - FTD CD Review: The January- Feb 1972 Las Vegas season was an all-important step as Elvis headed towards his 'On Tour' filmed performances and finally to Madison Square Garden. Elvis was in great shape both physically and vocally, and he was once again serious about performing. The Billboard Magazine review said, "The tight, fast paced just long enough show .... had no weak spots. "An American Trilogy" showcases a cleverly edited complete concert - but at the same time repeats several previously released tracks. EIN contributor Armond Joseph investigates. Go here for the full review (Source; EIN, Feb 2008)

'Live In L.A' FTD Book/CD review: 'Live In L.A.' is FTD’s audiovisual documentary of Elvis in Los Angeles. Although it covers 1956-1976, the main focus of the book and bonus CD is the evening show at the Inglewood Forum, May 11th 1974. The book contains 138 pages with nearly every photo in colour. Supergroup Led Zeppelin were in the audience and Elvis needed to put on a good show - and the book gives fans a chance to relieve the feel of the concert through some excellent images of Elvis in action. Since it is a much slimmer volume than FTD's 'Rockin' Across Texas' and also containing some audio problems with the soundboard CD, fan reviews have been varied. Click here to read EIN contributor Armond Joseph's deeper investigation to see whether it is really worth the price. (Source: EIN, Jan 2008)

'Raised On Rock' FTD CD review: On initial release Elvis’ October 1973 LP ‘Raised On Rock’ with its paltry 10 tracks running only 28 minutes, was one of Elvis’ poorest 1970’s albums. An original review stated that it was a "pitiful apology for a rock record that would have made Elvis laugh himself sick in his early days!" - and in some ways the critics were right. However while it was one of Elvis' weakest albums, FTD have once again achieved terrific work in delivering a new insight into the original LP via "Rough Mixes" and outakes which all capture a spark not previously heard in these July sessions. In our review EIN's Piers Beagley digs way too deep to uncover the real gems amongst the dullness. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, Jan 2008)

'Unchained Melody' FTD CD review: While a 1977 concert could never be a highlight of Elvis' on-stage career, there has to be emotional involvement from any true Elvis fan. With this release of a totally unknown concert from Charlotte February 1977, FTD continues to provide thought-provoking material for Elvis collectors. With tracks like ’Reconsider Baby’ and ‘Where No One Stands Alone’ there are also some very fine performances that needed to be officially released. So while this CD will have its detractors who are only interested in the glory days of Elvis' early seventies concerts EIN discovers plenty of reasons that make this CD worth a spin.  (Source: EIN, April 2007)

'His Hand In Mine' FTD Deluxe CD review: With a stylish booklet and 53 tracks featured over 2 CDs, FTD once again spoils Elvis fans with the ultimate version of this classic gospel album. Although most of these tracks have been released before, the upgraded sound and exquisite harmonies provide a emotional look into the music that Elvis so loved. EIN's Piers Beagley spent Easter soaking in the glory of The Lord and Elvis' divine Gospel music, leading him to discover plenty of new highlights that would make any fan happy. The CD also features exciting new versions of Elvis' #1 singles 'Surrender' and 'Crying In The Chapel.' Only EIN brings you such in-depth analysis of Elvis' music. (Source: EIN, April 2007)

'Writing For The King' FTD Book/CD review: FTD’s biggest project to date with over 140 interviews, 400 pages, plus two bonus CDs. While perhaps not for 'jumpsuit junkies', this is a text driven book that deserves one's time being spent poring over the information and discovering plenty of fascinating quotes and Elvis stories along the way. EIN's Piers Beagley spent a week delving into this host of delights - and here provides an in-depth review of one of the best Elvis releases of 2006. (Source: EIN, Feb 2007)

'Let Yourself Go' FTD CD review: 'Let Yourself Go' is a glimpse into the making of Elvis' sensational 1968 'Comeback' TV Special. While it does feel like a 'work under construction' this is the sound of Elvis kicking open the door to his prison cell of movie contracts and dreadful scripts. With Studio outtakes plus a rehearsal jam, isn't this what the FTD "Collectors" label is all about? (FTD Reviews; Source: EIN, Jan 2007)

'Clambake' FTD Soundtrack CD review: This is the sound of Elvis at the crossroads trying to break free from his movie contracts and heading for renewed musical creativity. So can this Clambake extended FTD possibly shine a complimentary light on the wrong side of these crossroads? Unfortunately not, and EIN's Piers Beagley suffers for his art with some disappointing Clambake stew. (Source: EIN, 9 August 2006)

'Elvis Presley' FTD Deluxe CD review: The quintessential first Elvis Presley album. The first million-selling Popular Music LP, the world’s first Number One Rock’n’Roll album, the album that changed music history forever! Released by BMG in another format for the umpteenth time, EIN investigates the new FTD deluxe version. Can the small number of new outtakes, improved audio & new packaging really make it worth buying all over again? (Source: EIN, August 2006)

'Something For Everybody' FTD CD review: From blues to pop, ballads to rock, in 1961 this was indeed Something For Everybody. Although this deluxe release cannot hold that many new surprises for hard-core collectors, CD 1 is a sublime 78 minutes of perfect pop while CD 2 has hidden treasures that will satisfy any fan. The real strength of this collection is the inclusion of the major 1961 singles and the upgraded & flawless sound, as well as a very nice cover & 16-page booklet. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, July 2006)

'I Found My Thrill' FTD CD review: Did Elvis really sing "Does your chewing Gum loose its flavour on the bed-post overnight"? Should he have recorded Charlie Rich’s "The Most Beautiful Girl in the World"? The answers are all here on this stunning new release from FTD which features a fabulous concert from Elvis’ almost unknown January 1974 Las Vegas season. The set-list is a fascinating selection and Elvis is inspired & energetic. Best of all the bonus tracks are truly sensational! EIN is thrilled - don’t miss out on this one. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, July 2006)

'Made In Memphis' - FTD review: The most recent FTD compilation which this time rounds-up those 'left-over' outtakkes from Elvis’ recording sessions in his home-town. It also includes the famous home recordings of Sam Thompson. By its very concept this has to be a mixed-bag of goodies - but it does feature FIFTEEN unreleased studio outtakes. Following FTD's concept, EIN's Piers Beagley delves deeply into the exploration of Elvis' more emotional & introspective side. Can this really be another essential release? (Source: EIN, May 2006)

'Loving You' - FTD extended Soundtrack review: Dismissed all too flippantly by some reviewers, EIN discovers plenty of delights in this packed 'Special Edition'. Let's face it, Elvis' third LP from 'Mean Woman Blues', through 'Blueberry Hill' to 'I Need You So' was a great release.

'Southern Nights' - FTD review: If you are a little bored with Elvis’ standard set-list of See See Rider/I Got A Woman/Love Me, then this is the CD for you! Compiled to complement the 'Dixieland Rocks' 1975 FTD release, this is an invigorating selection of Elvis at his best in 1975, having fun & throwing plenty of spontaneous songs into the set-list. It also features the "new" song 'Jambalaya'. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, Feb 2006)

'Summer Festival' - FTD review: After the highs of 'On Tour' and 'Madison Square Garden', Elvis is in surprisingly good form for a 7th Las Vegas season Dinner Show. Featuring the first official live release of the songs, ‘My Way’, ‘What Now My Love’, and a wonderful first-ever ‘Fever’, there are plenty of reasons to check out this new FTD - although some peak audio distortion is a little disturbing. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, October 2005)

'Today' - FTD deluxe CD review: EIN's Piers Beagley discovers the hidden delights of the newest FTD 'deluxe release' that other reviews missed. While not without its faults, he finds a CD capturing the lovely atmosphere of what would turn out to be Elvis’ last spirited recording session - and there is also plenty of new material to explore. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, August 2005)

All Shook Up - FTD CD review: The excitement of Elvis' return to live performances in August 1969 would never be repeated. On his Midnight shows Elvis had no time limit, was able to perform to his maximum and on this special night he was in a fabulously funny mood & as loose as a goose! ‘All Shook Up’ captures Elvis’ truly infectious laughter while at the same time Larry Muhoberac's piano driven mix, and the rare song highlights, also make this CD well-worth investigating. (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

Tickle Me - FTD Extended Soundtrack CD review: With no new songs or outtakes included, can the new FTD extended Soundtrack really be worth purchasing? EIN is the only website with in-depth reviews of all these soundtrack CDs and we discover that, if you do like Elvis' smoother early sixties pop-style, then this could be the FTD for you! The audio quality is excellent with tracks taken from the best sources available, plus there are a few surprises in store - EIN reveals all!  (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

'Rockin' Across Texas' (FTD/Book review): Over 270 pages featuring plenty of unpublished photos along with fascinating tales of Elvis' early years, 'Rockin' Across Texas' is the biggest project by FTD so far. However since it is an upgrade of the 2002 book 'Elvis In Texas', this time combined with two concert CDs from 1974 & 1976, EIN checks to see if it is really worth the money. (FTD/Book Review, Source: EIN, July 2005)

‘Elvis Is Back!’ (FTD Review): In early 1960 Elvis Presley’s future career would hinge on just two night’s recording sessions. Had Elvis not created such quintessential million-selling music on these two crucial nights he could have been relegated to the fifties rock’n’roll vaults along with Bill Haley and the like. EIN explores the new double deluxe FTD release to discover why it is an essential purchase. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, 1 June 2005)

FTD review - "Big Boss Man" - 1975, Elvis was forty and the year had not begun well. By March however Elvis was feeling better, even joking about his own weight saying, "You should have seen me a month ago. I looked like Mama Cass!" So although early 1975 was not a peak of Elvis’ concert career, this packed release does present us with a remarkable look at Elvis’ 12th Las Vegas season capturing a fine song-list with some excellent performances, the historic meeting with Barbra Streisand, and also some delicious rarities. The latest FTD soundboard is definitely worth investigating as our detailed review reveals. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, 4 May 2005)

"Elvis Today" Spotlight - the LP 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. (Review, Source: EIN)

Kid Galahad FTD soundtrack review: EIN is the only website with truly in-depth reviews of all the FTD soundtrack releases. Here Piers Beagley digs deeper than ever to discover exactly what is so special about the six songs that make up the Kid Galahad soundtrack. Can 35 versions of 'King Of The Whole Wide World' really be that interesting?...EIN reveals all! (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

Follow That Dream (FTD Review): Piers Beagley had a good listen to the 10th soundtrack release from FTD. Is it an essential or repetitive release? Read Piers' in-depth review to find out. (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

Elvis On Tour – The Rehearsals: Released by FTD at the end of last year and they sure saved the best for last. The more one listens to this CD the more faultless it sounds. EIN's Piers Beagley provides an in-depth analysis of the "essential FTD release of 2004". (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

One Night In Vegas: FTD EIN looks back at one of FTD's most important CD releases which captures Elvis' Opening Night in August 1970 that was filmed by MGM for That's The Way It Is. It really was a night to remember. (Source: EIN)

Double Trouble: When Elvis filmed Double Trouble his movie career was at a low ebb. So does this soundtrack release offer fans any real value? Piers Beagley dissects it song by song and identifies the highlights. (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

Closing Night: EIN's Piers Beagley takes an in-depth look at the most controversial CD so far released by the FTD label. It was indeed an historic night when Elvis said "Adios Las Vegas, and bye-bye Colonel too!" (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

Closing Night: A special EIN spotlight on the soon to be released 'Closing Night' CD. Not only does EIN has exclusive pictures from the next FTD release and track running times, but Piers Beagley takes us behind the scenes in September 1973 when the concert was recorded! This would become an historic night in Elvis' life. (FTD News, Source: Arjan Deelen/EIN)

The Impossible Dream: unfortunately not the strongest FTD release. The disc offers some treats but overall is disappointing.

Flashback: fabulous pictures and music make this FTD release a must.

Paradise, Hawaiian Style: pallid imitation or guilty pleasure? EIN's intrepid audiophile, Piers Beagley, takes a look inside FTD's latest Elvis soundtrack release.

Polk Salad Annie: tremendous near complete 1970 soundboard. Savour EIN's review.

Live In Memphis: EIN takes an in-depth look at one of Elvis' best concerts of 1974, now released with a fabulous new sound mix that puts you right in the center of the Mid-South Coliseum.

Spinout: is the latest FTD release worth buying? EIN's intrepid Piers Beagley takes a detailed look at the FTD release.

Frankie and Johnny: FTD showboats down the Mississippi! EIN's Piers Beagley gives you a detailed lowdown on the FTD release.

Harum Scarum: as with other releases in FTD's soundtrack series, this entry would have benefited from enhanced audio.

Viva Las Vegas: FTD's best extended soundtrack release & the perfect justification for this series. Great movie, great soundtrack, great treatment by FTD. The chemistry between Elvis Presley & Ann-Margaret, both on screen & off was dynamite & the sexual tension was palpable even in the recording studio! A packed 80 minutes with plently to explore. Recommended for everybody - Buy it, you won't regret it. (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

Dragonheart: There is no doubt that Elvis' fourth tour of 1974 was one of the low points of his career. So while this CD will have its detractors (Elvis certainly isn't as dynamic as his pre-1973 shows of course) it is a quality soundboard which placed in historical context is just fine to listen to. It catches Elvis in a surprisingly up-beat mood. (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

So High: FTD gem captures cross-section of Elvis' musical genius.

Takin' Tahoe Tonight: Elvis was really having fun during this show. EIN's Piers Beagley takes you on a trip through a great concert.

New Year's Eve: while this is the first FTD "audience" recording, the double diasc release is an historic concert with The King fitter and happier than he had been for some time.

New FTD CD 'Fun In Acapulco' Offers Great Latino Sound: FTD continues to re-package Elvis' film soundtracks in 7" format with original artwork and outtakes to delight fans. Fun In Acapulco is a welcome addition to the series.

Studio B Nashville Outtakes: "We've got a classic in here" - EIN reviews a great FTD release

Girl Happy: EIN continues it detailed look at FTD's Elvis film soundtrack releases.

It Happened At The World's Fair: EIN continues it detailed look at FTD's Elvis film soundtrack releases.

Dinner at Eight: technically superior FTD release.

Pre 2003

Spring Tours '77: 1977 wasn't the greatest year for The King. But this release is worth buying if you're buying it for the right reasons. Sound confusing? Piers Beagley explains.

Fame & Fortune: "a treasure to hold": Piers Beagley listens intently to the latest FTD release.

Stunning Sound on 'Dixieland Rocks' : crisp, clear vocals and great audio quality make Dixieland Rocks a real winner.

It's Midnight: EIN's Piers Beagley loses track of time as he reviews FTD's soundboard release from 1974, an emotionally turbulent year for The King.

It's Midnight: EIN's Piers Beagley loses track of time as he reviews FTD's soundboard release from 1974, an emotionally turbulent year for The King. A packed CD with some excellent songs and some great dialogue, this captures Elvis' feelings of August 1974. (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

The Nashville Marathon: Studio B stunner from FTD!

Easter Special: "It's Pure Gold!"

Elvis At the International: FTD's latest Las Vegas soundboard is a sensational show. Piers Beagly gives you the lowdown.

6363 Sunset: how good were Elvis' recording sessions in Hollywood in 1972 and 1975? Piers Beagley explores a fascinating new FTD release showcasing many of the songs from those sessions.

Memphis Sessions: "The power of Memphis soul": From the wonderful start of "After Loving You" Tk3, this CD is an extraordinary insight into Elvis rediscovering his musical roots that so escaped him in the sixties. This is Beale Street Blues and Memphis Soul combined with some of the most meaningful lyrics that he would ever record. FTD once again let us eavesdrop on Elvis, this time at his most important recording session of his career. An essential purchase.

Silver Screen Stereo: An orthophonic delight!

Elvis The Way It Was: FTD's first book + CD release is expensive. Does it offer good value for meney? Piers Beagley has the answer.

One Night In Vegas: FTD EIN looks back at one of FTD's most important CD releases which captures Elvis' Opening Night in August 1970 that was filmed by MGM for That's The Way It Is. It really was a night to remember. (FTD Review, Source: EIN)

The Jungle Room Sessions: "...amazing, sad, special and an extremely moving experience."- An essential FTD, perhaps the most important as it reveals a very intimate side of Elvis in his last recording sessions. If you want to understand Elvis' final years you have to own this CD.

'Too Much Monkey Business': Released in 2000 this CD focuses on the Nashville "Young 'Un Sound" studio overdub sessions organised by Elvis' associate producer Felton Jarvis in early 1980. While there are a few hidden gems, in the end these sessions charmingly emphasise just how much Elvis really was the true producer of his own recordings. Fascinating, if ultimately disappointing.

"Burbank 68" revisited: FTD's debut album was a stunner! Read EIN's review of this historic release.