5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the Best Live Performers Ever!, May 12 2004
This review is from: Ben Folds Live (Audio CD)
I wasn't a huge Ben Folds fan until I saw him live opening on the Lottapiano's tour for Tori Amos. I was only slightly familiar with Ben Folds Five, and wasn't even aware that he had gone solo. Shame on me! I was missing out on some incredible music. Not only is Ben Folds and incredible live performer, but he's an incredible musician, storyteller, and artist. Unlike so many acts out there today, he has plenty of talent aside from merely holding a microphone and looking pretty. His lyrics are definitely amusing and very witty, and his piano playing is unrivalled (with the exception of his 2003 tour partner Tori). In comparison to what I've heard of Ben Folds Five, I like his solo material better by far. He is certainly talented enough to hold his own on stage without any backup.
I believe that sometimes in order to really, truly appreciate someone's music and musical talent, you need to see them live. Luckily, you don't have to fork out the money for expensive concert tickets in order capture that energy and essence in this case. This inexpensive CD does that for you, and believe me, it's worth every penny!
Some highlights on this CD include:
Track 2 "Zak and Sara;" This song really showcases Ben's piano playing ability, and has really great lyrics. Definitely a song that you will get stuck in your head and find yourself singing all day long!
Track 5 "Not the Same;" A great song that manages to be emotional and funny at the same time. Tells the story of a friend who went on an acid trip that changed his life.
Track 9 "Brick;" Tells the tragic tale of Ben and his high school girlfriend getting an abortion, and what it feels like. A great slow, emotional song.
Track 11 "Army;" Great lyrics that tell a story about Ben Folds getting into music. Very funny song, and great piano playing! This one is particularly fun live when Ben has the audience sing the brass parts.
Track 13 "Tiny Dancer;" Ben does and awesome job covering this Elton John song. I never really liked it before until I heard this version.
I would recommend this CD to anyone who can appreciate great piano playing and superbly witty lyrics. The only thing this CD doesn't do is capture some of his humorous stories in between songs. If you ever get the opportunity to see Ben Folds live, definitely go see him! You won't regret it!
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5.0 out of 5 stars
1 word: AMAZING, April 13 2004
This review is from: Ben Folds Live (Audio CD)
Ben Folds is a genius. His music is incredible, and sounds even better live. This is a great 2-disc set, and the DVD of songs is great too! His impression of Elton John in Tiny Dancer on the DVD is priceless. This is a must-have for any true Ben Folds fan!
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5.0 out of 5 stars
my favorite BF album, April 8 2004
This review is from: Ben Folds Live (Audio CD)
Although the audience noise can be a bit annoying sometimes, I really like this album the best because of the variety of songs. He plays some Ben Folds Five songs as well as others. It's interesting to hear the stories behind some of the songs, and I enjoy the music with just the piano.
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