Telemania Smiley Face Phone
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $29.99
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Editorial Review

This friendly telephone will add a goofy charm to any kid-friendly décor while supplying a handful of convenient features. The ringer volume is easily adjustable, and last-number redial is available at the touch of a button. The smiley face has a diameter of nearly 12 inches and a depth of 3 inches; the cord to the handset follows snugly around for a classic look. It's designed to be wall-mountable, and includes a one-year warranty from the manufacturer. ... Read more

Features

• Can be mounted on wall
• Fun smiley face design
• Adjustable ringer volume
• Last-number redial
• Call flash

Reviews (4)

Strange handset design, not durable, not recommended
This product certainly looked pretty on my wall, but that's about the only positive point.The cord to the handset was short, and had to be replaced for normal use.The handset touchpad places the numbers in two rows of buttons rather than the normal 3 rows, making it hard to find numbers.The letters on the buttons were small and nearly impossible to see while dialing.The phone worked for about 3 or 4 months, and then became gradually more and more static-prone until it stopped working -- and this was with light use, no dropping of the phone, etc.I finally gave the phone to my young daughter as a toy and went back to a boring but reliable and easy-to-use phone.

smiley happy funny bunny ACEEEED!
Mine's didn't work.

Vive Le Revolution.

Very nice
It's a bright and shiny phone, there's no doubting that, but stare at it long enough, waiting for her to call, and that smile turns into a mocking grimace. ... Read more

Asin: B00001U0RX
Subjects:  1. Telephones (Phones)    2. Telephone (Phone)    3. Novelty, Ringer volume, redial    4. Corded, Call Flash    5. Mounting type (Wall Mountable)    6. Phones (Telephones)    7. Novelty   

Magic 8 Ball
Average Customer Review:
Toy
-- our price: $7.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Ever wish you could see into the future? If you answered"without a doubt" or "signs point to yes," you are in luck. It is easyto get a sneak preview into the future with Mattel's Magic 8 Ball. Takeall the guesswork out of finding the answers to life's more perplexingquestions. Yes, this is the same Magic 8 Ball you remember from thepast, and it is just as reliable as ever. If you don't get the resultsyou are after, you can always "ask again later!" --Alison Golder ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Boring, stupid questions
It's obvious that 8 balls suck, it's just some random answers that may not be true; or you could get a repetitive question and does no more but to waste your time over un-true questions.

If a robotic company invented a talking 8 ball with no random questions and can be your pal as a lie detector, than that one I like..

Wish I got this MUCH sooner
When my parents questioned me a few weeks ago about my finances, I knew I was in trouble.
I had missed 7 car payments and they had wondered how I let that happen. I told them about how I consult my psychic before I purchase anything. They looked upset, very upset. My psychic hasn't been making good decisions lately, so that's how I was in so much trouble.
When they asked how much my psychic charges, I let them know, she is $35 for a 10 minute session. And, I do have to advise her a lot because I make a lot of purchases.

To help my financial status, my parents gave me one of these to cut down on psychic fees.
Believe it or not, the 8 Ball is actually more accurate than my previous psychic, Helga The Unbeleivable!

I have done very well for myself since I got my 8 Ball and now I think I might be able to buy those buttock implants I've been looking to get for a few years now!

FUN,FUN, AND MORE FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
this toy is the best toy ive ever gotten!!! The magic 8 ball knows all!I love it!I just got it today and i know i could play with it for countless hours!!!all my friends love it and i ask silly questions too!If u want a great toy come to toys r us and start askin questins!Its also low prise!i love it and ull love it too!
... Read more

Asin: B00001ZWV7
Subjects:  1. Activity    2. Wacky    3. Balls    4. Grownup   

For endless creative olfactory fun, roll out the scented Play-Doh. This colorful set of Play-Doh includes eight 6-ounce cups of soft,squishy, nontoxic dough in a variety of colors and scents.Discoverred rose garden, purple splurple, orange explorange, blue shampoo,green pinemania, yellow funshine sunshine, white shaving cream, and hotpink pinktastic! Children will delight in playing "name that scent" as they openeach new cup of dough.While most of the scents are pleasant, one or two of them may turn a weakstomach, particularly "explorange." For builders and sculptors, step-by-step directions are provided to create a Wacky Whiff-o-Will or a Silly Schnoz-Waffler. Dough does not stain hands or work surfaces and can be neatly stored in provided lidded cups for re-use. --Kathryn Gustafson ... Read more

Asin: B00000JNXO
Subjects:  1. Arts and Crafts    2. Dough   

Fun Factory Play Doh
Average Customer Review:
Toy

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Editorial Review

Children can explore basic concepts in design and construction while amusing themselves with the Play-Doh Fun Factory. To use the factory, young designers place bits of soft, pliable Play-Doh modeling compound into the extruder, a levered device that resembles a garlic press. Then, choosing from one of 10 different shapes in design strips attached to the front of the contraption, they push the Play-Doh out into long shapes that can be cut to size as needed. Some 14 molds on the handle and base of the extruder can be used to make additional shapes as well. The Fun Factory comes with two 6-ounce cans of Play-Doh, one orange and one purple. Other colors are sold separately. Trimmer knife included. Play-Doh is nontoxic and cleans up easily. --Joan DeClaire ... Read more

Reviews (3)

THIS IS THE BEST, WITH OR WTHOUT THE PLAY-DOH!
THIS IS THE PLAY-DOH TOY I REMEMBER HAVING THE MOST FUN WITH AS A KID.IT REALLY UTILIZES THE IMAGINATION.MY SISTER AND I WOULD MAKE THINGS AND PLAY FOR HOURS, AND WHEN THE DOH DRIED UP WE WOULD PRETEND THE UNIT WAS A DRAGON OR A MONSTER, UNTIL WE GOT MORE PLAY DOH.EVEN THE SMELL BRINGS BACK MEMORIES.A GREAT TOY FOR KIDS, NO BATTERIES NEEDED!

Play-Doh is no fun without this toy!
This toy should be purchased hand-in-hand with your childs first tub of playdough.Hours of Great fun was had at my house when I was a child.My Daughter plays with this everytime we play with PLay-Doh.The problemswith durability have always been how hard it is to get all the old play-dohout after each use.Also, if your play-doh is even slightly hard, itpushes the sliding shapes off the track.It also takes alot of muscle topush the handle down.But don't let that discourage you-kids still manageand love it!

A classic play-doh toy
My kids love playing with play-doh and this is just one of the many play-doh toys we have in our play-doh "box"It still has the same problems that it had when I was a kid - if the play-doh is old, itwill pull out the strips from the main part and it's sometimes toodifficult for young kids to manage alone.Regardless of it's faults, mykids still love playing with it. ... Read more

Asin: B00000IW25

Pucker up for Smoochy, a prince of a frog.He was born on October 1, 1997, and his poemreads:
Is he a frog or maybe a prince?
This confusion makes him wince
Find the answer, help him with this
Be the one to give him a kiss!
So much work has gone into this bright green amphibian: he is green on top,golden yellow underneath andon his four webbed feet, and real-looking green eyes are set high on his head. A red thread mouth offers acontrast.Surface wash only.--Peggy Etra ... Read more

Asin: B00001QECW

Sea Monkeys Ocean of Light
Average Customer Review:
Toy
-- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

You are about to begin a new amazing hobby that is sofantastic it staggers the imagination! You will create instant life!Single-handedly, you will give rise to the world's only living,breathing, instant pets--live sea monkeys! The instruction book for theSea Monkeys Ocean Zoo is an entertaining read, packed with enthusiasticrevelations about those ubiquitous brine shrimp from yourcomic-book-reading days. They're fascinating creatures, able to live up to a yearor more, reproduce ("dozens of adorable babies!"), even "performtricks" in their 5.75-inch magnifier-studded "Micro Vue" aquarium. Thekit comes with shrimp eggs, food, plasma, a water purifier, and ahandbook. Just add pure water. A great set of pets for a smallishdomicile, they'd also make a scintillating science project. Plus,they're just plain fun! --Julie Ubben ... Read more

Reviews (62)

great item
Sea Monkeys are the best! They are so easy to raise! It only takes about a day to prepare the tank! Speaking of tank, the tank is so cool! It has a flip light, and lots and lots of magnifiers.



Sea monkeys are great for kids who are allergic to fur. Be careful to not spill the tank! And remember to feed your fine little friends!

Entertaining and Fun
Before I begin, please note that this is from an eleven year old's point of view.
Sea Monkeys are really great! They are perfect for kids who aren't allowed to have furry animals.
Sea Monkeys Ocean of Light comes with exactly the following-no more, no less:

-aquarium with flip light
-instructions in a variety of languages
-water purifier pouch
-instant egg pouch
-growth food pouch
-plasma III pouch
-food and egg spoon

The kit is great for starters who don't wan't to get too fancy-just using what you need. The tank is really great, with the light and built in magnifiers, but beware that the lid is EXTREMELY loose. For those who don't know, Plasam III is some powder that will make your sea-monkey babies grow faster.
The instruction booklet has its ups and downs. It's packed with advice and science facts are crammed in, making it fun. However, the box clearly states that it has a 32 page booklet, in full color, but I did not find any.
I took one star away because the kit was simply not enough for a serious beginner trainer. For instance, an Aqua-Leash will let you transport your critters from one place to another, and the Million Bubble Air Pump is a handy device in which it pumps air. I was slightly dissapointed when I did not find either in the kit. But, I went onto the official sea-monkey website, www.sea-monkeys.com, where they sell the leash and the pump, plus other great stuff. Go on there to buy and to get valuable customer care information.
All in all, the Ocean of Light is really a pretty good kit, and sea-monkeys are the BEST and easiest to raise!

"IDidn't really get it but i had some thing like it"


It was really cool waching the sea monkey's swiming in the water it wasn't much of a problem feeding them either it was a fun thing to look at and past the time.I think my parent's will buy this for me again.I think this gift would be a scientific experiece for any child.Tip:keep younger kids away if they arent smart they'll think its a glass of water and drink it.
... Read more

Asin: B00000ISKD
Subjects:  1. Activity    2. Learning    3. Science    4. Animals   

Capresso 402.01 Coffee Break 4-Cup Drip Coffeemaker, Black
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $29.99
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Editorial Review

With a straightforward, simple design, this four-cup drip coffeemaker by Capresso has a utilitarian feel. It has a removable filter holder for easy insertion and disposal of filter paper and coffee grounds. Drip-stop action lets you pull out the glass carafe and serve the coffee before the brewing process is completely finished, and an outside water-level indicator lets you see how much coffee you will brew. The hidden cord storage lets you adjust the length of the cord for your convenience. It's easy to use and brews rich, flavorful coffee. --Jane DePaolo ... Read more

Features

• Measures 10 by 6-1/2 by 11 inches; 1-year limited warranty
• Ideal for brewing up to 4 cups of coffee
• Removable filter holder for easy disposal of coffee grounds
• Pour a cup midbrew with convenient brew-pause feature
• 750-watt heating element heats quickly

Reviews (6)

Reservoir hard, if not impossible, to clean thoroughly
If this little coffeemaker didn't make decent coffee, I would have given it one star. It does, and had I writtent a review before trying to clean the reservoir, I would have rated it at least a four.

Unfortunately, the difficulty of cleaning the water reservoir--and the impossibility of removing the water indicator level from the unit to clean it--are points important to consider if you live in an area where ants periodically invade everything. Even with the use of a cleaning agent, crud remains and is unreachable.

Furthermore, the carafe has a metal band around it, making it impossible to rewarm coffee in the carafe in the microwave. The "footprint" of this coffeemaker is bigger than it needs to be, too.

Overall, these seemed sufficient reason to downgrade my rating of this coffeemaker to a two.

BOTTOM LINE: There are better options. Check out the Braun in the same size. I give that a solid five.

best 4-cup coffeemaker on the market
Although an unfamiliar brand name, the Capresso more than lived up to its stellar rating. Very well designed unit for small family -- I drink a mug, my wife a cup of coffee -- at breakfast. The waterlevel indicator helps you brew less than 4 cups, and the coffee tastes just fine. All in all, great value for your money -- beats the name brands, and we've tried most.

The one improvement recommended is the pour spout that overflows when you pour too fast from a full carafe. Otherwise this is a compact, neat and reliable unit in the 6 months we've had it.

Worked good for six months then useless.
Very good coffee maker as others have pointed out.Worked for six months then began to leak severely during brewing process. It's now useless. Not built to last.My other Capresso coffee pot broke nearly right away.The feature where you can remove the carafe during the brewing process depends on a tiny plastic piece that broke off while removing the carafe rather than preventing drips.I've had experience with two Capresso coffee pots of this type and both didn't last very long.I feel it's because they used flimsy/cheap parts in critical areas. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SU1V
Subjects:  1. Automatic    2. Drip Coffee Machines    3. Coffee Makers    4. (Coffeemakers)   

Nissan 14-Ounce Stainless-Steel Insulated Travel Tumbler
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $24.00 -- our price: $22.00
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

This tumble offers easy-sip, no-spill commuting. Virtually unbreakable, this lightweight, vacuum-insulated thermos travels to work or your favorite recreation spot. On arrival, and for hours afterward, coffee, tea, or soup will still be hot. Or lemonade, iced tea, or a sports drink will still be chilled. It's compact (7-1/2 inches high) and handsome. A band of soft, nonslip black rubber encircles the tapered, satin-finish exterior, ensuring a firm grip. Top and bottom are black plastic. Fine threading ensures the twist top seals tightly, while the smooth interior cleans with sponge or cloth. Preheating or prechilling with hot or cold water is recommended. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Five-year warranty against defects
• Keeps 14 ounces of beverage hot or cold for hours
• Sip-hole cover flips open for no-spill sipping
• Fits most vehicle drink holders (2-1/2-inch bottom)
• Hand wash with mild detergent

Reviews (23)

Still going strong, eight years after I bought mine
I bought my Nissan mug at the end of 1996, when I started biking to work every day. It's suffered a couple of dents as a result of popping out of the old bike's water bottle cage a few times. An ex-girlfriend borrowed the mug and absentmindedly ripped the rubber sleeve off, so for years I just had a bare steel mug (which stays in the water bottle cages better).A year ago I was riding in a bus shuttle to a client's office and found a new rubber sleeve, so now my mug is complete again.

I've had the same issues as everyone else: the flip lid can leak even when closed (especially on bumpy pavement), it collects coffee in the little thing on the lid so you end up with a dot of coffee on your nose, and it doesn't fit in most car cupholders.

All of this gets mitigated, though, when you consider that as long as you don't melt the lid, one of these things should last you a *very* long time.So much better for you and the planet than disposable coffee cups.

Good, but...
Overall, this is a passable insulated coffee-mug.True that the lid latch isn't spill proof (more like "slosh-proof"), and it sometimes leaves a drop on your nose if you're not paying attention.My biggest complaint about this travel mug is that there's a rubber seal inside that's impossible to clean:Unscrew the lid, and look down inside the mug.Just underneath the black plastic rim there's a thick translucent-white rubber seal.After using this mug for several weeks, I discovered that some of my coffee (with cream & sugar please) gets trapped up underneath this seal and the funky cheese starts to grow.Nissan replaced my mug under warranty, and sure 'nuff, the new one did this too.It's pretty gross.Now I use a cheap plastic travel mug without any seals inside -- it's a whole lot easier to clean!

Great for coffee, not great for tea
I asked for and received this mug for Christmas.The next day I used it to drink coffee and it worked great.When I returned to work I used it to have some green tea.(I generally drink green tea through the week and coffee on the weekends.)I noticed that even though I had only used it once for coffee and cleaned it out well, there was a strong coffee order coming from the rubber ring that sits between the steel and the plastic on the inside.It took about three days of using and cleaning it to get rid of the smell.No big deal, I thought, I'll just use it for tea.

After about a week I noticed that the inside was turning brown from the tea.The only way I could get it clean was to use a scotch bright pad and it is sort of hard to get your hand in there to scrub it.Finally I just decided to buy a cheaper stainless steel mug with a plastic lining at my local discount store (you know which one I'm talking about).So now I use the cheaper one for tea and the Nissan for coffee.

In summary, if you are a tea drinker then I'd advise using a different mug with a plastic lining.On the other hand, coffee drinkers will love it; it has great ergonomics, keeps your drink hot, and looks good. ... Read more

Asin: B00004S1CR
Subjects:  1. Commuting    2. Tumblers    3. Nissan    4. Thermos    5. Travel Cups    6. Travel Mugs    7. Insulated Beverage    8. Thermal    9. Commuter Mugs   

Run Lola Run: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (15 June, 1999)
list price: $17.98 -- our price: $13.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

German film Run Lola Run has been compared to a 70-minute rock video: nonstop action and music, and (for better or worse) not a whole lot of plot. But the premise works, as does the film's high-energy techno soundtrack. Most of the tunes on this disc are credited to the trio of Tykwer/Klimek/Heil--the threesome of film director Tom Tykwer, techno producer John Klimek, and Rynhold Heil (best known as the producer of German pop import 99 Luftballons by Nena). Included are several remixes of the movie's main themes, the bass-heavy "Rock Me" by Pills, and "Wish," featuring the vocals of Franka Potente (Lola herself). There are a ton of soundtracks that have employed dance music, but few work as successfully as Run Lola Run. There's a cohesiveness to this dark and furious mix of beats that your typical compilation just can't muster. --Jason Verlinde ... Read more

Features

• Soundtrack

Reviews (108)

Get pumped up
Loved the movie Lola Rennt (aka "Run, Lola, Run"), and the music is an essential character in the movie. The music doesn't merely sit in the background and emphasize the mood of a scene, it propels the story, and creates the heart-pounding race that is the movie. I have to confess that I rarely notice soundtracks in movies the first time I see them, unless they are the "stars"--as in "O Brother, Where Art Thou"--or unless they are comprised of songs I already know. This soundtrack made me immediately want to go out and buy the CD--and I'm not usually into techno, either. It's simply terrific music. I agree that the music on this CD that comes directly from the movie is better than the remixes, with one exception: "Believe" is fabulous, and has the feel of a track that was originally in the movie but cut during editing. And Franka Potenta was terrific, as well--many Americans didn't know who she was until the Bourne Identity came out--but she really shines in this film.
I also agree with others who said that this is excellent music to exercise to--I keep going much longer than I plan to everytime I cue this album up. And I haven't gotten tired of it yet! (Be careful about listening to this while driving down the highway, though--I find myself having to consciously keep from accelerating!)

"I don't believe reality would be the way it should...
But I believe in fantasy if you just understood..."

Wow. I first heard the music from this soundtrack when I downloaded a legendary Anime Music Video made for it's first track, Believe. The video was fantastic, but the song was what fueled it. Believe is an incredibly inspirational song about not giving up and believing in yourself, and I can't count how many times I've listened to it (the part at the end is just transcendant (you know, like when you're running so hard and so long that you don't even feel the pain anymore)). Later on I downloaded Music Videos to two of the other songs (Running Two and Running Two Remix). I enjoyed the videos and the music so much I decided that I had to own the soundtrack.

From what I understand, only the first 7 tracks are actually from the movie. That's probably the only reason I could give this awesome soundtrack less than five stars. The first seven tracks are all great. Believe is awesome, the introduction is the music I used to listen to while getting ready for work every morning (the ultimate wake-up music), Running One gets the blood pumping, Running Two puts you into overdrive (and whenever I'm REALLY tired I hear the words echoing in my head "Never never never never letting go, never giving up, never saying no. Just go go never stop and never think, just do do do do the right thing"!), Running Three is the big finale, and Casino is a great drum piece sure to keep you moving. The other tracks are kind of hit and miss.

Many of the remixes lack the polish of the music from the movie (and one even features a spine-rippling scream and breaking glass at it's start). I did enjoy the Supermarket Remix, the Running Two Remix, and the last track, Rock Me.

Overall I consider this to be an essential purchase if you like German Techno, Techno in General, or this movie's music. It's worth buying for the first 7 tracks for sure. The rest is just extras.

Simple Awesome
Wow, this is definitely one of my favorite albums. All I want in my music, in most cases, is a catchy beat to tap my feet to. This music delivers in this area like no other. The music is infectious and captivating, just like the movie itself. ... Read more

Asin: B00000JG17
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Soundtracks    3. Soundtracks & Film Scores   

Risotto
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (30 September, 1997)
list price: $16.98 -- our price: $13.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Fluke first gained notoriety in the early 1990s with singles like "Joni" and "Pearls of Wisdom," songs that infused hummable pop sensibilities into credible underground dance music. Their lighthearted songs and showy live PAs stood out in a scene dominated by faceless producers and music that was, at best, opaque. Unfortunately, they were too far ahead of their time. Years later, Techno has become "Electronica," stage shows and vocals are now the norm, and the aesthetic of a band like Fluke makes more sense than ever. On 1997's Risotto, they borrow heavily from the rulebook laid out by Underworld, working a series of deep and distorted grooves into a sound that's more AC/DC than Tangerine Dream. But unlike their contemporaries, Fluke have a solid understanding of simple verse/chorus/verse pop music and a broad emotional range. Fans of Underworld will appreciate vocal tracks like "Absurd" and "Atom Bomb," but Fluke's diversity and inventiveness is best shown on the narcotized and spacious "Bermuda" and the smooth drum and bass of "Setback." --Matthew Corwine ... Read more

Reviews (71)

A risk worth taking
When I first bought this CD about two years ago I was taking a chance that Im sure all techno-lovers have and bought a CD only knowing of one song that I had ever heard of from this group.Of course that song was Atom Bomb which I had heard on the movie Senseless.
The first time I listened to the CD all the way through I didnt like it other than Absurd and Atom Bomb.So lets just say I am very happy I gave it a second chance.Fluke is a group you have to listen to extremely loud because if you dont you miss so much that goes on and that was what my problem was the first time I heard it.
This CD puts you on a rollercoaster the beginning is very fast and moving (Absurd, Atom Bomb) then it slows down just to let you catch your breathe (Kitten Moon, Mosh, Bermuda) then comes the upwards climb just before it picks up speed again (Setback, Amp) {Amp is the one song on the CD that took me the longest to like but it has become probably my favorite song on the CD now} then your back to speed (Reeferendum, Squirt) and then when its all over just as your getting off (Goodnight Lover) it makes you want more and to do it again.

Fluke's greatness is no fluke.
For the longest time I heard snippets and samples here and there of this stellar album.But for the longest time, and for a variety of reasons, I just couldn't get my hands on a copy.Well, I finally did, and Risotto is one of the grooviest discs ever.

And there's no other word for Risotto; it's just groovy.The album arguably peaks too early.Absurd, the opening track, is a fantastic, in-your-face start for this great CD; it's just one of those jaw-dropping, "What am I listening to 'cause I love it" numbers.Unfortunately, it's also just so good that it makes the rest of the CD seem kind of tame in comparison.But don't let that fool you.Tame for Fluke is still lightyears ahead of just about everybody else.Atom Bomb, the mega-hit from the album (featured in countless soundtracks, and understandably so), is a slick, big beat blaster that, like Absurd, just makes you want to move.The album tones itself down a little from here on, with the dreamy Kitten Moon, the funky Mosh, the laid-back Bermuda.Setback brings a noticeable drum & bass edge to the table, while Amp, if you'll forgive the pun, amps the album back up.Reeferendrum is an insanely different remix of Absurd, and while nowhere near as amazing as the Whitewash remix (featured on Fluke's Progressive History X CD), still manages to be worth your time.Squirt is probably my least favorite track, but it's still good enough that I never skip it.The album closes with Goodnight Lover, a smooth and agile breakbeat number.

Fluke's been around for ages, and you've probably heard them all over and just never knew.Absurd was used in the trailers and making-of featurette for The Bourne Identity, and the Whitewash remix of Absurd was used in The Matrix Revolutions trailer featured in the Enter The Matrix video game.Atom Bomb's been used in countless movies, and more noticeably it became the unoffical theme for the WipeOut racing series for the Sony PlayStation.And Fluke's latest, Zion (on The Matrix Reloaded album), was used as the music during the rave scene in The Matrix Reloaded, as well as the TV commercial for the BMW 5 Series.It's ironic that Fluke choose to call themselves that, since their talent is clearly no fluke; they've been around since before electronica was even heard of, and will undoubtedly be around for even longer.Risotto is probably their strongest outing, and I wouldn't hesitate to rank this album right up there with BT's Movement In Still Life, Crystal Method's Vegas and Sasha's Involver.Fluke is sensational, and fans of Underworld and good grooves in general should run, not walk, to their nearest source of electronica and pick up Risotto.It's a classic.

Nice
I actually found this album after searching for a song from one of the Matrix Reloaded trailers (Absurd-Whitewash Mix for those who are interested). Great album though, it's that kind of music you search for and perhaps find one song of on any one album - here you get ten... YAY!! ... Read more

Asin: B000003RZF
Subjects:  1. Club/Dance    2. Dance Music    3. Electronica    4. Pop    5. Techno   

Just a yo-yo? We think not. Designed with a centrifugal four-way clutch, this brainy-looking version of the classic toy has a patented auto-return system--so you'll look like a master from the start. Such favorable dynamics make the X-Brain ideal for tricks and amazing aeronautics such as walking the dog, around-the-corner, and the Creeper. Made of translucent plastic, you'll marvel at its inner engineering. Most importantly, it's a yo-yo, so it's the perfect choice for almost anyone. The future of yo-yos is here. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Asin: B00000JI9R
Subjects:  1. Wacky    2. Activity    3. Yo-Yos   

Becoming X
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 February, 1997)
list price: $16.98 -- our price: $8.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The U.K.-based Sneaker Pimps combine standard rock guitar parts with trip-hop beats and clear white-soul vocals, and, when strumming an acoustic guitar (as on the first single, "6 Underground"), the trio is virtually indistinguishable from Luscious Jackson. While using electronica's signifiers--jungle's rattle, trip-hop's dark churn, ambient's synth washes, hip-hop's samples--Sneaker Pimps never stray far from the comfy world of the pop song. Becoming X's opener, "Low Place Like Home," is only one step from Alanis, while the rousing closer is as breathy and sunny as the Cardigans. --Roni Sarig ... Read more

Reviews (83)

Must have
Sneaker Pimps, when I heard the name I thought what kind of band name is that? But then I heard Six Underground and I loved it right away. I had to listen to more I couldnt stop loving the music. The vocals was so amazing, and the beat to it just made you want to dance. Its a must have album or a band you must hear if you like a bit of Techo and Rock.

SAMPLING FROM JAMES BOND - GOLDFINGER
I've had this cd and the remix edition in my cd collection for about 8 years now.I've always been a fan of trip hop and found the Sneaker Pimps to be a group that certainly secured their niche with this album.too bad it was a one time shot (their second album falls short of their debut, mainly with the loss of their lead vocalist).But after a James Bond marathon this weekend, I noticed something about the track "6 Underground" that in my 8 years of listening had never noticed before.The main source of this track comes from the Goldfinger Soundtrack (you can hear it when James Bond finds Jill Masterson covered in gold).I always knew there was something drawing me into that song but that diffently made me understand why.Which is another reason why I've grown to love British trip hop over American.The Brits really research and find classic samples that the listener may not recognize but will fully enjoy.

A Classic
There isnt now, hasnt been, or will ever be a CD so intelligently written.Chris and Liam are absolutely brilliant, and Kelly's voice is flawless.Tracks to keep on repeat: 6 underground (Nellie Hooper remix), Low Place Like Home, Tesko Suicide, Walking Zero. ... Read more

Asin: B000000WCT
Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Alternative Dance    3. Club/Dance    4. Dance Music    5. Pop    6. Trip-Hop   

Pretty Hate Machine
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (09 November, 1989)
list price: $25.99 -- our price: $25.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Considered the breakthrough album that delivered a more palatable version of industrial music to the commercial audience, Pretty Hate Machine left its dingy mark on pop culture. The abrasive "sonarchy" of the album was first churned by despondent club-goers who roiled with the rhythms and aligned with the angst-ridden convictions. Since its release, the album's tempered deviations came to signify an aesthetic reverie for machine-driven martyrdom. Permeated by hissing engines and dissonant strains, the tracks cascade outside channels of modern complacency. Hits like "Head Like a Hole" and "Down in It" are recognized by the acidic beats, piercing riffs, and lyrical hostilities which snare the listener with disparaging rhapsody. Not for the light-headed, Pretty Hate Machine afflicts the inner sanctum and strikes a nerve. --Lucas Hilbert ... Read more

Features

• Import

Reviews (319)

Genius
Trent Razor is a abosulte GENIUS...His lyrics are so angry and yet can be depressing...He has some true talent.

Groundbreaking.
Hailed as the album that brought pop sensibilities into industrial music, "Pretty Hate Machine" is a real breakthrough in its genre.Nine Inch Nails (aka Trent Reznor) constructed an album of pain and anguish, of a mood of loss and anger, or mourning.The arrangements are sparse, far moreso than Reznor's later work, and its a much more pop record than any of his other material, and its got its own unique charm to it.

The album succeeds best when Reznor keeps the backgrounds simple enough to really allow his voice to carry the work-- blessed with the ability to really invest passion into his singer, he excels at the morbid ballad "Something I Can Never Have", prodded gently by the mournful piano line and the fantastic "Sin"-- full of anger and rage over a straightahead beat, Reznor really cuts right into it and the results are nothing short of stunning.The infectious rhythms and the great delivery together with an irresistable chorus hook sink the song right in your head.Add to that a couple really great angry tunes to open the record up (the anthemic "Head Like a Hole" and "Terrible Lie"), a great wacky piece with a funky bass line that threatens ballad form even as it rejects it ("Sanctified"), and a couple pieces with confessional lyrics and great delivery ("Kinda I Want To", "The Only Time") and you've got a great record.In fact, the only thing on here that doesn't really work for me is closer "Ringfinger"-- it always seemed a bit lifeless.

One other thing Reznor excels at is a sense of unity in his works-- "Pretty Hate Machine" is successful not just as a collection of songs, but as an album with a unified feel.It does drag a bit on the second half (although "Sin" is there to shake it up), but overall its a fantastic debut.Recommended.

I don't see what the craze about this album is...
Maybe I have a different preference of my music than this album. There are a few good songs on here, but what kind of music is it? I couldn't help but to feel it was a mixture of pop and metal. I will say that is an interesting blend, but it came out all mixed up.

I listened to this album and it sounds to me the man is angry and heading into a hole he can't get out of. Behind his lyrics is the twisted sound of his guitar and crazy sounding electric funk beats.

On the other hand, some songs like "Sanctified" and "Head Like a Hole" are pretty good. They have a cool groove to them. These songs sound like they actually tried to make something meaningful.

I'm not going to be rude, but this album was not as good as everyone says. You could grab someone off the street who has had a tough life and they could probably write lyrics to the same extent as well as music like Trent Reznor. I can't really "feel" his pain because his lyrics are whack and confusing. I just had to listen to the instruments rather than his voice.

However, this is just my opinion. It did start a cult following and many other artists cop this style of music. Millions of fans can't be wrong about this album if they all enjoyed it.

If you're like me, you'll probably be more interested in artists like Screaming Trees, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, and Nirvana. ... Read more

Asin: B000000GPY
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Industrial    3. Industrial Metal    4. Pop    5. Rock    6. Rock/Pop    7. United States of America   

Eve 6
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (28 April, 1998)
list price: $17.98
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Editorial Review

A California trio signed to a major label straight out of high school, Eve 6 plays the most potent brand of punk-pop this side of Green Day. The group's self-titled debut is an engaging mix of Jon Siebels's snarling guitars, Tony Fagenson's thundering drums, and bassist Max Collins's emphatic vocals and surprisingly erudite lyrics. These guys may have blown off their SATs to take a crack at rock stardom, but there's nothing lacking in their verbal skills on the hit singles "Inside Out" and "Leech." Hopefully, their math is good, too, so they can count the royalty checks from this short (it clocks in at under 40 minutes, rare in these days of overlong CDs), sharp rock gem. --Daniel Durchholz ... Read more

Reviews (251)

Not their best
I think of EVE6 in the top three of my favorite bands, however they haven't had anything new for quite some time now.This CD, good, however is not their best effort.There is no song that completely sticks out and grabs you, they are all 3 star songs, across the board.Good music if you want to have some background music to listen to while studying, working out, or doing other work.It will not completely grab your attention or distract you from what your original task was.Good music, not their best.Coming from a fan who looks to see more from this group who should be more popular, seeing how much they sound like Green Day and the success they have had, but with this short CD doesn't do it.

Eve 6 - Eve 6
Eve 6's debut album is nothing but sensational. Despite what many think, Eve 6 is far from a One Hit Wonder. A song with the depth and sheer display of talent like "Inside Out" belongs on a second or third album after the band has picked up a few things in the music business, but this punk-rock trio came out of high-school ready and set. The "Go" was no problem for this band. The first 5 songs, are all catchy, and after listening for awhile, you'll find yourself singing along. But this is where this album loses a star. The rest of the album is nothing special. You can't get attached to the songs like you did the in the beginning. The only songs worth listening to beyond this point are "Tongue-Tied" which is a fine song, and "Superhero Girl" which loses appeal being the only song with noticable cursing ["She pulls that black hairback and sighs, f--k that night out with the guys"]. Standout songs are "Inside Out", "How Much Longer", "Leech", and "Showerhead". These first songs make the entire album worth purchasing. Highly reccomended!

great music for anyone
I have found Eve 6 to be a very talented band in many ways...their lyrics are awesome! great use of words...and they stick in your head!...Their songs are just so catchy, but not corny. In my mind, I think the first half of the cd happens to be the best...the last half kind of lacks, but its still ok. Great talent for being right outa highschool. Go pick up this cd, its worth your money! ... Read more

Asin: B00000638F
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Pop    3. Post-Grunge    4. Rock