The *Other* Album Cover Is Better, Don't Ya Think?
Alan Caylow | USA | 06/28/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Okay, so this isn't a review of "Big Blue Ball" (other than to say that it's an outstanding album, hence my 5-star rating). It looks to me like the only difference between this "Big Blue Ball" and the *other* "Big Blue Ball" is the album cover. The tracks are exactly the same. The other album cover is better, don't ya think? Go on, look at it. I mean, it's just total "big blue ball"....it's much more striking & representative. Looks good in the music stores, too. You see that big blue ball on the cover, and you know exactly what album it is! *This* album cover....it's very pretty, but that's about it. So, Uncle Alan says go buy the other "Big Blue Ball" instead of this one. (P.S. My proper review of the album is over there too!)"
Around the World in 11 Songs
Amaranth | Northern California | 07/02/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
""Big Blue Ball" is the fruitful, fascinating fusion of three amazing Recording Weeks at Peter Gabriel's Real World Studio in Wiltshire, England. Gabriel united musicians from around the world in an electrifying open mike session. There's something for everyone. It's a natural compilation, right down to the tracks "Forest" and "Rivers."
"Big Blue Ball" opens with the electrifying "Whole Thing" that deftly blends Pygmy flute with contemporary dance. In the sensual "Habibe", Egyptian diva Natacha Atlas sings a love song with the Hossam Ramzy Egyptian Ensemble. "Shadow" magically blends African music with Spanish flamenco. "Altus Silva" blends Celtic stylings with Papa Wemba's congas. "Everything Comes From You" is a plea for peace. It has an unusually serene Sinead O'Connor singing with a Japanese percussionist and Chinese flautists. "Forest" evokes the African jungle, while "Rivers" has the Hungarian singer Marta Sebestyen with a Turkmen ensemble, flowing like water. The closing title track is a touching plea for universal unity, following in the theme of the opening song. It's musical alchemy blending a Celtic-sounding accordion with African drums.
"Big Blue Ball" is an amazing,psychedelic world fusion album. (I got the alternate cover shown because it looks like the sort of art the Grateful Dead would go for!) It's a delightful rainbow of vocals and instrumentals. Enjoy the Real World!"
Excellent blend of world music with the Peter Gabriel flair!
P. Franklin | Portland, Oregon United States | 08/25/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album is an excellent blend of both world music and classic Peter Gabriel sounds. You'll hear his sounds blended all through the album. Altus Silva is a beautiful melody with gaelic charm. This will not disappoint those looking for a different flavor."