Showing posts with label CD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CD. Show all posts

Friday, July 22, 2011

Robert Pierre I'm All In Album Review!


For Robert Pierre latest album 'I’m All In' is more than the name of his third studio album, it has become Robert’s life motto as he responds to God’s calling to live fully committed to Him. The album, being released on July 26 from thinkaboutit records is a collection of songs that enthusiastically and energetically worship God while wrestling with what it means to be a Christian in a world full of difficulty as well as joy, and anxieties as well as excitement.
 “All of the songs have something to do with things I was going through my senior year while preparing to say goodbye to friends and not really knowing what would come next, but finding comfort and peace in the Lord’s plan for my life." ~ Robert Pierre

The Bible talks about how the eyes of the Lord are searching to and fro throughout the earth, searching for someone whose heart is wholly His, someone he can strongly support. This CD is me saying, "I’m all in."

Creating I’m All In was a powerfully personal experience for Robert, who teamed with veteran songwriter Jason Ingram (Tenth Avenue North, Sanctus Real, Bebo Norman) and legendary producer Matt Bronleewe (Jars of Clay, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman) on the album and it shows! In addition to writing and recording 'I’m All In' and playing on a summer tour, Robertʼs weekly residency as worship director at Harvest Bible Church Orlando; the church his family helped launch just a few years ago, now welcomes upwards of 1,000 worshippers every week, keeps him extremely busy. And he’s done it all as a high school senior!

My Take:

It's hard to beleive Robert is so young! The music has a decidedly pop influence to it, and if you didn't know it was worship music, I could see where you could confuse it for a radio pop song, but not in a trite way by any means. I love that the message is in the words, delivered in an upbeat and relatable way!

Hold on to your teenage daughters, because his looks are a cross between Michael Buble and Elvis, with a cute mischievious gleam in his eyes and in his smile. I'm sure young girls are going to find him hard to resist! Nothing against 'the beebs', but if I were a teen, I'd much rather go to the prom with Robert than Justin Bieber, just saying! (Ok, so bad boy looks, but a good boy at heart? C'mon Ladies,you can't tell me I'm alone on that one!)

I can definitely see Producer's Matt Bronleewe's influence and get the Jars of Clay and Steven Curtis Chapman (one of my personal faves) influence. I like all the tracks, but stand outs include: I'm All In (Title Track), Sing For Joy, Dead to Sin, and Maker of the Stars.

You can stay up to date on all things Robert Pierre on Facebook or on Twitter!

I have always beleived that everything we hear, listen to, watch and expose ourselves to strongly influence our thoughts. Worship music has always filled my spirit and I'm proud to add Robert Pierre's 'I'm All In' to my collection! I know we live in a digital world, and I do add my CD's to my iPod in my 'uplifting' playlist, but I still like to have actual CD's! And this one will definitely remain in rotation!
















˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. No monetary compensation has been received. I received Robert's Pierre's 'I'm All In' CD for editorial consideration and to facilitate my review. I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” An Amazon Affiliate link to Robert Pierre's CD has been placed in this post.

Friday, April 8, 2011

{CLOSED} Yanni Truth of Touch CD Review and Giveaway! Ends 04/15!

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙
This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor One2One Network! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is Erin Cook, Congrats Erin!
˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

Ascending Butterfly's 'It's MY Birthday, but You Get the Gifts' Giveaways, brought to you by:


We are in the middle of the 'it's MY birthday, But You get the gifts' annual promotion! We started with Novica where I shared some great prezzies (including cute and meaningful bling), we then hosted a Lindt chocolate giveaway and we moved to music with the Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You CD Review and Giveaway!

I for one hold certainly nightly rituals sacred no matter how busy I am, and for me, while a shower is great in the morning so I can rush out the door quickly, there is something about my night time long hot bath that sets the tone of my night. I like to light candles and listen to soft music while in the bath, and I found a new CD that's going into my 'relaxation rotation', Truth of Touch by Yanni!

It's incredibly melodic and very soothing after a long day. You can just let the tracks wash over you like a soft spring rain. I enjoy watching Yanni's televised concerts on PBS. In fact the tour for this album is coming soon to a city near you, see Yanni tour dates on his website for a full schedule!

Track Listing:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Truth of Touch
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Echo of a Dream
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Seasons
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Voyage
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Flash of Color
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vertigo
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Nine
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Can't Wait
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Guilty Pleasure
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - O Luce Che Brilla Nell'Oscurita
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I'm So
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Long Way Home
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Yanni & Arturo
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Mist of a Kiss
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Secret

My Take:

Yanni's first studio album, Optimystique, was released January 1, 1984. I feel his music has stood the test of time due to strong composition, fluidity, and a genuine passion for music in it's purest form.

Certain tracks that stood out for me were #13 Yanni and Arturo because I am a long time fan of Arturo Sandoval! I was super happy to hear their collaboration! My second favorite is definitely track #10 called O Luce Che Brilla Nell'Oscurita. Before reading the jacket, I thought this was a collaboration with Andrea Bocelli, but the vocals were actually performed by Nathan Pacheco, lyrics were by him as well! Great track! For some reason I like to listen to operatic vocals while cooking Italian! :)

and last but not least, a third standout track is the last track #15 with vocals by Chloe, it stays with you, I wouldn't be surprised to hear it in a movie for some reason, strong almost haunting vocals! Notable Mention is Track #8, Can't Wait with vocals by Leslie Mills.

This CD is going to remain in my 'relaxation rotation' playlist, evening bath, night time driving, and I'd also add romantic dinners in, you can totally get lost in the music. This is a great CD and I defnitely recommend it!

You didn't think I'd forget about you right? Who loves you butterfly?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at one2onenetwork have a very special surprise for 1 lucky winner! 1 winner will receive Yanni Truth of Touch CD!

Don't you just ♥ Yanni? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2)MANDATORY entry- Tell us your favorite Yanni Album or Track! (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Tuesday, April 05, 2011 until Tuesday, April 15, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW! - one click, no registration required, super easy, DAILY vote, I am a finalist in Mom Central's Grow Your Personal Brand Grants Program and would really appreciate your vote! Read more about ‘Project Chrysalis’ and vote here

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Music Fun share with us your favorite song ever! (Can be any genre or style!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @yanni on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Pls RT Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly @yanni Truth of Touch CD #Giveaway! Ends 04/16! http://tinyurl.com/3uwzwql

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Yanni on his Youtube Channel

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Yanni and tell him Ascending Butterfly Sent You on Facebook HERE (Please post the link to your facebook comment, you can get that link the same way you get your link to your tweets!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)


Can't wait to win it? You can also order it at a great price:

















˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙


FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor. An Amazon affiliate link has been included in this post.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You CD Review and Giveaway! Ends 04/12!

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙
This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Rebecca St. James! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is Margaret R., Congratulations Margaret!
˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

Ascending Butterfly's 'It's MY Birthday, but You Get the Gifts' Giveaways, brought to you by:


Yesterday was my birthday and we are in the middle of the 'it's MY birthday, But You get the gifts' annual promotion! We started with Novica where I shared some great prezzies (including cute and meaningful bling), we currently have a Lindt chocolate giveaway running and now we are moving to music! When I think birthday or party I think music!

The day I was born fell on a Palm Sunday and my birthday always coincides with the season of Lent, so for me WHAT I listen to during this season is very important to me! I like listening to songs of praise and worship, across all categories and genres including Gospel, Rock, Christian and I've even listened to reggae and rap praise songs.

What we watch, read, and listen to has a huge influence on our thinking both on a conscience and sub-conscience level. For me, especially during the season of Lent, when I listen to music I like that music to fill my soul and lift my spirits.

I also have a keen interest in music released on or within days of my birthday across any genre!

Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You

In the following video, Rebecca explains her song, "Shine Your Glory Down," from the album, I Will Praise You, her first studio project since 2005, available everywhere April 5, 2011.


Track Listing:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I Will Praise You
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You Never Let Go
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Shine Your Glory Down
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You Still Amaze Me
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In A Moment
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The Kindness Of Our God
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - When The Stars Burn Down (Blessing And Honor)
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Almighty God
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You Hold Me Now
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You Make Everything Beautiful

My Take:

Rebecca St. James first studio album was a self titled album released June 1, 1994. Her career's longevity is a true testament to her Faith. There is an underlying theme in many of the tracks of not letting anything stand in the way of her praising him, which truly resonated with me. There are many stressors in our day to day lives, that pull us away from ourselves, shake our foundations and test our Faith, but actively affirming that you will continue to praise, to let your soul be free, to sing, to work at your happiness and your Faith is a powerful message. This is a beautiful reminder not to let anything get you down or get in the way of your Faith.

Certain tracks were perfect 'road trip' tracks, the kind of songs that urge you to move forward and put trouble behind you, those uplifting, sing a long to type tracks that you are comfortable having the kids hear while they are in the car with you! I enjoyed this album, and definitely recommend it! Would you like to preview the album for yourself? Rebecca St. James is having a listening party, please click HERE!

You didn't think I'd forget about you right? Who loves you butterfly?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Propeller have a very special surprise for 1 lucky winner! 1 winner will receive Rebecca St. James 'I Will Praise You CD'! (This is a great idea to slip one in that special someone's Easter Basket)

Don't you just ♥ Rebecca St. James? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2)MANDATORY entry- Tell us one way music enhances your Faith. (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Tuesday, April 05, 2011 until Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW! - one click, no registration required, super easy, DAILY vote, I am a finalist in Mom Central's Grow Your Personal Brand Grants Program and would really appreciate your vote! Read more about ‘Project Chrysalis’ and vote here

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Music Fun share with us your favorite song ever! (Can be any genre or style!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @RebeccaStJames on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Pls RT Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly @RebeccaStJames I Will Praise You CD #Giveaway! Ends 04/12! http://tinyurl.com/3c9nmvu

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Rebecca St. James on her Youtube Channel

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Rebecca St. James and tell her Ascending Butterfly Sent You on Facebook HERE (Please post the link to your facebook comment, you can get that link the same way you get your link to your tweets!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)


Can't wait to win it? You can also order it at a great price:
















˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙


FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor. An Amazon affiliate link has been included in this post.

Friday, November 5, 2010

. . . Featuring Norah Jones CD Review


I am already in holidays mode, and 'Casa de Butterfly' which doubles as my office literally looks like Santa's Workshop. And yes, I know that's a good thing. While my heart is certainly filled with gratitude, being in 'Super ON' mode all the time, has taken its toll.

I've been in 'go, go, go' mode, attending events, juggling consulting work and writing and trying to get some major repairs done at home and get things ready for the holidays. It's been a bit stressful lately....to say the least.

For me, one of my favorite ways to de-stress has always been a long hot bath, accompanied by some mellow tunes. (OK, and maybe a relaxing beverage of some sort and my favorite lavendar scented bath products and candles!)

Our Friends at One2OneNetwork must have sensed my stress levels were on high this week, because one of the packages I opened in the mail included Norah Jones ...Featuring, the album will be in stores Tuesday, November 16th, and it arrived at just the right time! One of the songs on my 'Mellow' Playlist that I like to play while de-stressing in the tub is 'Come Away with Me' by Norah Jones, so she is already on heavy rotation in my iPod!

This album was recorded from 2001 to 2010. It features Duets and Collaborations, spanning a musical spectrum that truly does contain a little something for everyone! And incredibly timely there is even a holiday themed track with Norah and Willie Nelson, their take on 'Baby It's Cold Outside'.

I'd heard most of them, but there were a few surprises on this CD for me including 'Soon the New Day' with Talib Kweli and her duet with Q-Tip called 'Life is Better'.  Definitely pleasant surprises! On the duet with Q-Tip I honestly wouldn't have known it was her if I were hearing it on the radio. It had a really strong Erykah Badu vibe to it, and I honestly wonder if it was written with Erykah originally in mind. This track really showed a great range in Norah's voice and her 'vibe'. I love it when artists step out of the box, and stretch a bit.

One of my favorite tracks on this album has to be the first one, 'Love Me' her collaboration with The Little Willies, while I'd heard it, hearing it again, reminded me just how much I like it, and I've been singing along to it all week! (Don't you just love the repeat button?)

I like the idea of having the duets all in one place!

Interesting fact: Norah is the daughter of Indian sitar player Ravi Shankar and concert producer Sue Jones.


TRACK LISTING:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1. Love Me – The Little Willies
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 2. Virginia Moon – The Foo Fighters featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 3. Turn Them – Sean Bones featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 4. Baby It's Cold Outside – Willie Nelson featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 5. Bull Rider – Norah Jones and Sasha Dobson
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 6. Ruler Of My Heart – Dirty Dozen Brass Band featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 7. The Best Part – El Madmo
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 8. Take Off Your Cool – OutKast featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 9. Life Is Better – Q-Tip featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 10. Soon The New Day – Talib Kweli featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 11. Little Lou, Prophet Jack, Ugly John – Belle & Sebastian featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 12. Here We Go Again – Ray Charles featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 13. Loretta – Norah Jones featuring Gillian Welch and David Rawlings
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 14. Dear John – Ryan Adams featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 15. Creepin' In – Norah Jones featuring Dolly Parton
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 16. Court & Spark – Herbie Hancock featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 17. More Than This – Charlie Hunter featuring Norah Jones
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 18. Blue Bayou – Norah Jones featuring M. Ward

I usually tend to purchase singles on iTunes instead of the whole album (insuring I get the exact tracks I like best), but I can honestly say that I would have purchased this album and not been disappointed!

Can't get enough Norah?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Website: http://bit.ly/norahsite

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Facebook: http://on.fb.me/norahFB

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  YouTube: http://bit.ly/norahYT

 Want to Pre-order on Amazon? See Button Below

















My apologies butterflies, I wasn't able to nab a copy for giveaway this time. But I can assure you our upcoming holiday buying guide, will be chock full of prezzies for you!

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure Info: This review is my personal opinion and I am entered to win a gift card through One2One Network for participating.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Give Up The Ghost!



Thanks to our friends at the one2one network I had the chance to listen to Brandi Carlile’s new album “Give Up The Ghost”. I was already quite familiar with Brandi, and will have to admit I found myself quite excited to hear her latest release. A lot of you may remember the song ‘Turpentine’ – which featured in the smash-hit show ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. And others may remember Brandi’s legendary cover of Leonard Cohen’s 'Hallelujah'! The song 'Closer to You' (on the the self-titled debut album) is another one of my favorites.

She combines blues and soul with a nod to Bonnie Raitt and in some tracks on her new album I also hear a K.D. Lang influence, her voice is powerful and clear with a raw edge and a great delivery that makes you want to sing along. There are no 'skippable' tracks on this one! There are however two tracks that stand out for me, the first single off the album 'Dreams' as well as the track 'Looking Out'.

Tracklisting
Looking Out
Dying Day
Pride And Joy
Dreams
That Year
Caroline
Before It Breaks
I Will
If There Was No You
Touching The Ground
Oh Dear

Upcoming shows:

Oct 16 Tucson, AZ Rialto Theatre
Oct 17 Los Angeles, CA The Wiltern
Oct 20 San Francisco, CA Fillmore
Oct 22 Portland, OR Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Oct 24 Seattle, WA The Paramount

For those of you that are Amazon lovers, like I am, you can order the album directly on Amazon by clicking below!



You can fan Brandi on Facebook here: http://www.facebook.com/brandicarlile

What's your favorite Brandi Carlile song??

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Monday, October 12, 2009

Five for Fighting is Back!




Five For Fighting is back with their next great album "Slice" full of finely-crafted songs by @JohnOndrasik (Twitter). The Album will be released October 13 and features the single "Chances". You can Watch John's performance of "Chances" on the CBS early show HERE.

First single “Chances”  with lyrics like “Until you crash what have you done/Is there a better bet than love.”, is described by John who says “It’s all about taking the swing—there’s beauty in the scars.” - Sometimes it's the simplest truth that tends to elude us for awhile and it takes that fresh way of presenting it that helps it to finally stick. Music has always been such a powerful force for me. Bet that on most days you can remember the lyrics in their entirety to your favorite songs, but invariably you'll forget something important at the supermarket! LOL

I'm sure that like me, many of you out there have been a fan of Five for Fighting since you first heard ‘Superman' and ‘100 Years'.  While written and released well before 9/11, “Superman” has endeared Ondrasik to the survivors and families of those lost in that tragedy, as well as to servicemen serving around the world. As a New Yorker, the track 'Superman' certainly does hold powerful memories for me.

Ondrasik also conceived and produced For the Troops, a series of compilations featuring superstar recording artists that are available for free to every active service member in the U.S. Armed Forces (the forthcoming collection, For The Troops III, will feature comedians exclusively). Ondrasik’s charity work doesn’t stop there. His site, whatkindofworlddoyouwant.com collects money for various charities. Living in a society that can get wrapped up in celebrity and fame, it very much warms my heart to see those who use this celebrity to help and benefit those in need. Way to Go John!

Ascending Butterfly in conjunction with the One2One Network was recently given the opportunity to review "Slice" at just the perfect time. As most of you know, Ascending Butterfly offices were closed for the holiday weekend (although I will admit, I was forced to push my own advice to the side and make it a working holiday anyway!). I went on an impromptu road trip over the Columbus Day Holiday Weekend and this album certainly became the perfect soundtrack to that journey! As we got farther from the hustle and bustle of the city and the scenery changed to the trees covered in a robe of fall leaves, John's voice became another friend in the car and 'Slice' had my un-divided attention in a way that nothing usually does when I'm sitting at my desk or I'm writing.

I am certainly grateful for the opportune timing (nothing better than new music for a long road trip!), but I am happy to say I really enjoyed the album! Standout Tracks for me are 'Slice', 'Hope', and 'Story of Your Life'.  The entire album takes you along for a journey, that journey will often-times mirror your own so well, it will feel like hanging out with that friend you've known forever.

You can lock in a great pre-order price on Amazon below:



Album Tracklisting:


1. Slice
2. Note To The Unknown Soldier
3. Tuesday
4. Chances
5. This Dance
6. Above The Timberline
7. Transfer
8. Hope
9. Story Of Your Life
10. Love Can't Change The Weather
11. Augie Nieto

TV Appearances:

The View 10/14
The Today Show 10/16

Tour Dates:

John will be hitting the road in October with An Acoustic Evening with Five For Fighting. The songs are great on record, even better live! Definitely a show worth seeing! To find out about how to get tickets in a market near you, go to his site.

18-Oct Toronto, ON El Mocambo
20-Oct New York, NY City Winery
22-Oct Bay Shore, NY (Long Island) YMCA Boulton Center
23-Oct Uncasville, CT The Wolf Den
24-Oct Washington, DC Jammin Java
26-Oct Boston, MA The Paradise
27-Oct Philadelphia, PA World Café Live (downstairs)
29-Oct Nashville, TN The Belcourt
30-Oct Chicago, IL Lakeshore
3-Nov Salt Lake City, UT The State Room
5-Nov Seattle, WA Crocodile
6-Nov Portland, OR Aladdin Theater
10-Nov San Francisco, CA Swedish American Hall
11-Nov Los Angeles, CA Largo at the Coronet
Five For Fighting on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fiveforfighting
Five For Fighting Videos on YouTube: http://bit.ly/FFFYouTube

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Harry Connick Jr 'Your Songs', CD Review and Giveaway!

Congratulations Ascending Butterfly follower, 'VJ ~ vantalee' winner of the Harry Connick Jr 'Your Song's CD!  Don't forget to enter our current giveaways listed on the upper right hand side of the page where it says 'WIN HERE'. Good Luck Everyone and congrats to our newest Ascending Butterfly Giveaway Winner!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~








Ascending Butterfly wants to add a little music to your Holiday Weekend!

As you may remember we were given the opportunity to provide readers with a review of Harry Connick Jr 'Your Songs', CD, you can read the full review HERE

The One2One Network has generously arranged for one lucky Ascending Butterfly reader to win a copy of their very own!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

WIN IT! - 1 reader will receive a copy of Harry Connick Jr's new CD, 'Your Songs'.

How to Win: You must be a follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. In addition, please share your favorite Harry album or song!

How to Follow Using Google Friends Connect:

Please look to the upper right hand side, where the follower pictures are. (Note the number of followers before you start this process)

1) press the follow button - the google pop up wizard will open, this is not an ad and your pop up blocker will not block it

2) tick the option that reads 'follow this blog publicly' once that button is selected, hit follow again - it should now read 'you are now following'

3) if the follower count went up you know you did it succesfully, if your profile has a picture, that picture will be the first one on the left side. If your profile doesn't have one, it should still be searchable on the members list.

Remember, following on twitter or on Networked Blogs is an extra credit step, for the main entry to process you must become a blog follower using google friends connect in addition to your comment. If your 'follower' name is different from your 'comment name', please mention that in your entry (and don't forget your email formatted for security purposes.

Please leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com), if your blogger profile has your email you can just indicate this in your entry. If your comment name, and your follower name are different, please indicate this as well.

Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, so no worries if your comment doesn't appear on the site right away. This giveaway is open to bloggers and non-bloggers alike, but you must follow this blog for your entry to count. You have from now until Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 11:59 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. Winner will be announced shortly after Thursday, October 22th! Giveaway open to USA only, 18+.

EXTRA CREDIT:

* Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment

* Follow me @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

* Tweet about this giveaway and leave the URL in a comment. (you can do this DAILY)

* Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

* Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

* Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

* Follow Harry on Facebook HERE

* Please vote for Ascending Butterfly on Divine Caroline's Love! This Site Award '09 for the Body and Soul category, you can press into the badge on the upper right hand site of the page or click through HERE, there is a Vote button right under the description. (it's a one time only, super fast, super easy vote, and here is the best part, people who vote are also going to receive a chance to win a $250 Visa Gift Card just for voting!)

* Please vote for Tracy from Bronx, NY to win in the the Nature Made SAM-e Complete®
Good Mood Gig Talent Search! Press HERE  (Vote for me purple button right next to the blue butterfly)

*Please vote for me on the Simmon's I REALLY want my BeautyRest Mattress contest here, I am a finalist thanks to the voters (thank you!) this is the last leg and I really need your help readers, vote HERE

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Your Songs - Harry Connick Jr CD Review



Your Songs - Harry Connick Jr CD Review


When the One2One Network reached out to me and asked me if I would be interested in listening to Harry Connick Jr's new CD, Your Songs I didn't hesitate one second in saying YES, YES, YES!!!! Now they never did confirm whether or not I will be able to offer a giveaway, I truly do hope so and will keep you posted here when I get the final answer. Don't hesitate to write in and let the folks at one2one know that Ascending Butterfly's out there want a chance to win the CD too!

I love Harry's voice and his music and consider myself a long time fan! I also enjoy his acting. Everyone that knows me knows I love horror movies and I have to admit Harry truly creeped me out in Copycat, he played a killer just a little too well, LOL! (1995 thriller, you can get it online or rent it at your local video store). Odd to be attracted to someone and creeped out by them at the same time, lol!

Harry's voice immediately conjures up certain images for me, specifically a glass of wine and a bubble bath are the top two, because that's how I usually enjoy his music! This new album was no different. I immediately tore it open and went into the bathroom to listen, I mean solely for the great acoustics and all.....

The first track is Frank Sinatra's classic 'All the Way' and Harry wraps his voice around it like a hug. It's one of my favorite tracks on this album of standards. Another standout is Harry's rendition of Charlie Chaplin's 'Smile'.

Now I will admit I tend to always end up preferring the originals to a re-make, and there are two tracks on this album that were better left to their original artists, one is 'Can't Help Falling in Love With You'. I don't think anyone will sound sexier than Elvis crooning that track. And as a Latina I have to admit that Harry also falls short on 'Besame Mucho' (a song written in 1940 by a young girl named Consuelo Velázquez before her sixteenth birthday, According to Velázquez, she wrote this song even though she had never been kissed yet at the time. She was inspired by the aria "Quejas, o la Maja y el Ruisenor" from the Spanish 1916 opera Goyescas by Enrique Granados.). Besame Mucho was first performed by Emilio Tuero with notable covers by Cesaria Evora, Javier Solis, and others.

This album is like coming home in every other way though, it's familiar, it's comfortable, it's the places and the people you know. It's the perfect accompaniment to a romantic dinner or a night in with your sweetie.

Album Tracklisting (Originally performed by):


All The Way (Frank Sinatra)
Just The Way You Are (Billy Joel)
Can’t Help Falling In Love With You (Elvis Presley)
And I Love Her (The Beatles)
(They Long To Be) Close To You (The Carpenters)
Besame Mucho (Emilio Tuero)
The Way You Look Tonight
First Time Ever I Saw Your Face (Roberta Flack)
Your Song (Elton John)
Some Enchanted Evening
And I Love You So (Don McLean)
Who Can I Turn To? (Tony Bennett)
Smile (Charlie Chaplin)
Mona Lisa (Nat King Cole)

Harry’s Upcoming TV Appearances:


9/28 – Today Show
9/29 – The View
9/30 – Imus in the Morning
9/30 – Letterman
10/1 – Today Show
Week of 10/5 – Rachael Ray


Other links:


Behind the Scene look at ‘Making of’ the album: http://www.amazon.com/gp/mpd/permalink/m22XB2WJ5NXPVL

Harry’s website: http://www.harryconnickjr.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/harryconnickjr