The Speed of Life (2007) Hdrip

Ambra is a collaboration between two composer/producer brothers, Giorgio and Martin Koppehele (or Cope to use their English-speaking alias). Their musical style is drawn from many diverse influences and classical training, but in a nutshell could best be described as intelligent electronica with depth and complexity, meets world music. This CD combines the best tracks of previous releases. In addition, there are three previously unpublished pieces.

The Toys of Men is a mature work from an artist who’s got nothing left to prove, and is the closest thing to a fusion album Clarke’s released since the inconsistent collaborative effort Vertu (Epic, 1999). A far more satisfying disc, it’s a career consolidation of sorts, with Clarke also delivering a series of lyrical solo acoustic bass miniatures, referencing past efforts while, at the same time, playing with considerably more restraint.

At first glance, this otherwise grand career-spanner seems frustratingly incomplete: What a logistically fastidious, but regrettable decision to ignore leader Michael Head's lone "solo" LP as Michael Head & the Strands, 1997's incomparable The Magic World of the Strands. All longtime fans know that it is 1) really no different from the other Shack LPs, in style or in personnel since both crucial Head brothers were present, and 2) universally regarded as their best record. And Shack have released only five LPs otherwise over their two decades, one of which, the 1988's debut Zilch, was all but disowned as it's banished from here.

Comprehensive 2007 two CD compilation of Gillan and Ian Gillan Band tracks that spans the six year period from 1976 to 1982 during which the world famous big haired rocker had his most successful solo period. The former member of both Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, famed for his very wide vocal range, had two Top Three albums during this period and the finest cuts from these and his others are showcased here perfectly. 31 stunning highlights including the hit songs 'Trouble' and 'New Orleans'.