close to perfection, 21 Jan 2008
The score for the film The Nightmare before Christmas is brilliant in its own strange way. Both the music and the lyrics are written by Danny Elfman, and he also sings the main character of jack Skellington.
The songs are delightful and variated, and you discover something new in the arrangement, every time you listen to them. Besides, the instrumental tracks are beautiful and melancholy, a nice contrast to the humourous and often lively songs. If you like the film or are just a little bit interested in music, you should definetly buy this CD. It has so many great tunes, and the orchestration is just perfect. All in all, a soundtrack quite out of the ordinary.

Magical, 29 Nov 2006
I completely agree with the other reviewer. You shouldn't dismiss The Nightmare Before Christmas as being just a Disney film for kids. The music is so full of depth and charm that even the coldest of reviewers surely couldn't fault it.

While there are some clear standout tracks (Sally's Song, What's This, This is Halloween, Kidnap the Sandy Claws and Oogie-Boogie's song spring to mind), each track is full of the same magical energy and vibrancy that only Danny Elfman can achieve.

Truly wonderful. I bought the DVD first, and found myself humming to the tracks, wishing I had the soundtrack so I could listen to it on my mp3 player.

Superb., 16 Sep 2006
Once again, Danny Elfman has done it again. He is just the best composer by far for musical films. A listen to this will prove my point. It's so, so good.

close to perfection, 21 Jan 2008
The score for the film The Nightmare before Christmas is brilliant in its own strange way. Both the music and the lyrics are written by Danny Elfman, and he also sings the main character of jack Skellington.
The songs are delightful and variated, and you discover something new in the arrangement, every time you listen to them. Besides, the instrumental tracks are beautiful and melancholy, a nice contrast to the humourous and often lively songs. If you like the film or are just a little bit interested in music, you should definetly buy this CD. It has so many great tunes, and the orchestration is just perfect. All in all, a soundtrack quite out of the ordinary.

Magical, 29 Nov 2006
I completely agree with the other reviewer. You shouldn't dismiss The Nightmare Before Christmas as being just a Disney film for kids. The music is so full of depth and charm that even the coldest of reviewers surely couldn't fault it.

While there are some clear standout tracks (Sally's Song, What's This, This is Halloween, Kidnap the Sandy Claws and Oogie-Boogie's song spring to mind), each track is full of the same magical energy and vibrancy that only Danny Elfman can achieve.

Truly wonderful. I bought the DVD first, and found myself humming to the tracks, wishing I had the soundtrack so I could listen to it on my mp3 player.

Superb., 16 Sep 2006
Once again, Danny Elfman has done it again. He is just the best composer by far for musical films. A listen to this will prove my point. It's so, so good.

Nightmare - Revisited...., 30 Sep 2008
Tim Burton's cult classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas has always been held a special place in the hearts of countless people - including myself - that have grown up with the film. The creepy hellish innocence that Burton always manages to bring to his films was never so prominent as in this masterpiece.

Now, celebrating it's 15th Anniversary, the re-release of the soundtrack has fully embraced the alternative goth/rock/metal subculture that holds NBC so dearly. The songs we know and love have all been re-invented and some of the choices of acts to undertake this mammoth task are absolutely spot on. Amy Lee's powerful rendition of Sally's Song is incredibly moving, while Korn's interpretation of Kidnap The Sandy Claws is a thrashing angry stompathon. The jewel of the mosh-along crown is Manson's cover of This Is Halloween - I can't think of anybody better to breath new life into this track, and to hear him seeth "I am the shadow of the moon at night, filling your dreams to the brim with fright." sends tingles down my spine.

All the artists to justice to the tracks they've written - except, unfortuntely, for Flyleaf's apallingly dull version of What's This. For a track that's supposed to bounce and crackle with energy, they've turned it into a depressing funereal dirge - Burton should have put the Fall Out Boy cover back on the tracklisting instead.

Apart from this, the new Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack is a roaring success - by it immediately.

close to perfection, 21 Jan 2008
The score for the film The Nightmare before Christmas is brilliant in its own strange way. Both the music and the lyrics are written by Danny Elfman, and he also sings the main character of jack Skellington.
The songs are delightful and variated, and you discover something new in the arrangement, every time you listen to them. Besides, the instrumental tracks are beautiful and melancholy, a nice contrast to the humourous and often lively songs. If you like the film or are just a little bit interested in music, you should definetly buy this CD. It has so many great tunes, and the orchestration is just perfect. All in all, a soundtrack quite out of the ordinary.

Magical, 29 Nov 2006
I completely agree with the other reviewer. You shouldn't dismiss The Nightmare Before Christmas as being just a Disney film for kids. The music is so full of depth and charm that even the coldest of reviewers surely couldn't fault it.

While there are some clear standout tracks (Sally's Song, What's This, This is Halloween, Kidnap the Sandy Claws and Oogie-Boogie's song spring to mind), each track is full of the same magical energy and vibrancy that only Danny Elfman can achieve.

Truly wonderful. I bought the DVD first, and found myself humming to the tracks, wishing I had the soundtrack so I could listen to it on my mp3 player.

Superb., 16 Sep 2006
Once again, Danny Elfman has done it again. He is just the best composer by far for musical films. A listen to this will prove my point. It's so, so good.

Nightmare - Revisited...., 30 Sep 2008
Tim Burton's cult classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas has always been held a special place in the hearts of countless people - including myself - that have grown up with the film. The creepy hellish innocence that Burton always manages to bring to his films was never so prominent as in this masterpiece.

Now, celebrating it's 15th Anniversary, the re-release of the soundtrack has fully embraced the alternative goth/rock/metal subculture that holds NBC so dearly. The songs we know and love have all been re-invented and some of the choices of acts to undertake this mammoth task are absolutely spot on. Amy Lee's powerful rendition of Sally's Song is incredibly moving, while Korn's interpretation of Kidnap The Sandy Claws is a thrashing angry stompathon. The jewel of the mosh-along crown is Manson's cover of This Is Halloween - I can't think of anybody better to breath new life into this track, and to hear him seeth "I am the shadow of the moon at night, filling your dreams to the brim with fright." sends tingles down my spine.

All the artists to justice to the tracks they've written - except, unfortuntely, for Flyleaf's apallingly dull version of What's This. For a track that's supposed to bounce and crackle with energy, they've turned it into a depressing funereal dirge - Burton should have put the Fall Out Boy cover back on the tracklisting instead.

Apart from this, the new Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack is a roaring success - by it immediately.

joe meek instros, 11 Jul 2007

THIS RELEASE GIVES GOOD VALUE FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THOSE HARD TO FIND JOE MEEK INSTRUMENTALS,
AND IN A DESERT OF NON BRITISH INSTRUMENTAL RELEASES! A OASIS FOR SILVER SURFERS LOOKING FOR
THOSE ELUSIVE NON SHADOW TRACKS FROM THE 5O'S & 60'S.
OTHER COMPANY'S TAKE NOTE

Instrumental Gem, 11 Jul 2007
I found this an excellent CD, the most comprehensive of his Instrumental productions. There are a few dodgy tracks as there are with all his work.But 60 tracks for under £10 is outstanding value, it also has a very good booklet.

The sound of Joe, 01 Mar 2007
Yet another filler for us obsessive nerds concerning the "British Phil Spector". You will be better advised spending your money on the Tornado's compilation CD's which were the peak of Joe's work in this area. There are one or 2 intriguing rarities - notably "phantom Hussar" which could almost be summoned from the ether at one of Joe and Geoff Goddard's ouija sessions and Dave Rowlands' Besame Mucho which is a catchy, almost punk-like arrangment that should have been rerecorded with vocals instead of the virtually drowned-out pianist. Otherwise, you've heard all the best stuff before and you could happily survive without hearing the rest. Joe's quality control button often went amiss during his career. The notorious tea-chest tapes may contain even worse dross.

close to perfection, 21 Jan 2008
The score for the film The Nightmare before Christmas is brilliant in its own strange way. Both the music and the lyrics are written by Danny Elfman, and he also sings the main character of jack Skellington.
The songs are delightful and variated, and you discover something new in the arrangement, every time you listen to them. Besides, the instrumental tracks are beautiful and melancholy, a nice contrast to the humourous and often lively songs. If you like the film or are just a little bit interested in music, you should definetly buy this CD. It has so many great tunes, and the orchestration is just perfect. All in all, a soundtrack quite out of the ordinary.

Magical, 29 Nov 2006
I completely agree with the other reviewer. You shouldn't dismiss The Nightmare Before Christmas as being just a Disney film for kids. The music is so full of depth and charm that even the coldest of reviewers surely couldn't fault it.

While there are some clear standout tracks (Sally's Song, What's This, This is Halloween, Kidnap the Sandy Claws and Oogie-Boogie's song spring to mind), each track is full of the same magical energy and vibrancy that only Danny Elfman can achieve.

Truly wonderful. I bought the DVD first, and found myself humming to the tracks, wishing I had the soundtrack so I could listen to it on my mp3 player.

Superb., 16 Sep 2006
Once again, Danny Elfman has done it again. He is just the best composer by far for musical films. A listen to this will prove my point. It's so, so good.

Nightmare - Revisited...., 30 Sep 2008
Tim Burton's cult classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas has always been held a special place in the hearts of countless people - including myself - that have grown up with the film. The creepy hellish innocence that Burton always manages to bring to his films was never so prominent as in this masterpiece.

Now, celebrating it's 15th Anniversary, the re-release of the soundtrack has fully embraced the alternative goth/rock/metal subculture that holds NBC so dearly. The songs we know and love have all been re-invented and some of the choices of acts to undertake this mammoth task are absolutely spot on. Amy Lee's powerful rendition of Sally's Song is incredibly moving, while Korn's interpretation of Kidnap The Sandy Claws is a thrashing angry stompathon. The jewel of the mosh-along crown is Manson's cover of This Is Halloween - I can't think of anybody better to breath new life into this track, and to hear him seeth "I am the shadow of the moon at night, filling your dreams to the brim with fright." sends tingles down my spine.

All the artists to justice to the tracks they've written - except, unfortuntely, for Flyleaf's apallingly dull version of What's This. For a track that's supposed to bounce and crackle with energy, they've turned it into a depressing funereal dirge - Burton should have put the Fall Out Boy cover back on the tracklisting instead.

Apart from this, the new Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack is a roaring success - by it immediately.

joe meek instros, 11 Jul 2007

THIS RELEASE GIVES GOOD VALUE FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THOSE HARD TO FIND JOE MEEK INSTRUMENTALS,
AND IN A DESERT OF NON BRITISH INSTRUMENTAL RELEASES! A OASIS FOR SILVER SURFERS LOOKING FOR
THOSE ELUSIVE NON SHADOW TRACKS FROM THE 5O'S & 60'S.
OTHER COMPANY'S TAKE NOTE

Instrumental Gem, 11 Jul 2007
I found this an excellent CD, the most comprehensive of his Instrumental productions. There are a few dodgy tracks as there are with all his work.But 60 tracks for under £10 is outstanding value, it also has a very good booklet.

The sound of Joe, 01 Mar 2007
Yet another filler for us obsessive nerds concerning the "British Phil Spector". You will be better advised spending your money on the Tornado's compilation CD's which were the peak of Joe's work in this area. There are one or 2 intriguing rarities - notably "phantom Hussar" which could almost be summoned from the ether at one of Joe and Geoff Goddard's ouija sessions and Dave Rowlands' Besame Mucho which is a catchy, almost punk-like arrangment that should have been rerecorded with vocals instead of the virtually drowned-out pianist. Otherwise, you've heard all the best stuff before and you could happily survive without hearing the rest. Joe's quality control button often went amiss during his career. The notorious tea-chest tapes may contain even worse dross.

Best Hardcore Mix to Date: Dougal Disk, 25 Dec 2007
I'm going to focus on the Dougal Disk here, as it's this that I purchased the cd for. Well it's been a few years since Bonkers 13 was released, and I still find that the Dougal CD is the best hardcore CD I've heard to this day. The Brisk and Kevin Energy CDs on Hardcore Heaven 1 (the one with cartoon artwork of a wierd helmet) are on par in my opinion.

The CD really gets you in a euphoric state of mind, a hardcore paradise if you will. The aptly named "Heaven on Earth" is my favourite track on a mix that builds up beautifully. I think the tune selection is great, they all have mad, clean sounding euphoric riffs, along with some screeching synths in "Xtreme" and "Get Hype." After the insane beginning the mix goes into a brief lull, "Right Here", "Still the One" and "The Theme" are not my favourite tunes. Yet it soon picks up again with some more pounding euphoric hardcore, and as you enter the later stages of the mix you get some really emotional riffs in "Night Flight", "Close Your Eyes" (which begins with an awesome pounding hardstyle bassline) and "Substance". These three tunes, in my mind, really reflect the later stages of a messy night out drawing to a close. "Drifting Away", the last tune is again not one of my favourites, but it's ok and I know a lot of hardcore heads love it.

All in all I'd say if you were new to hardcore, or trying to get your mates into hardcore, then this is definitely the cd to start with. I'd reccoment buying the compilation just for this cd. If you like getting messy at home with friends, girlfriends or whatever, then wack this on for an awesome experience that would even rival being at a rave.

As for the other CD's I cannot say as I've hardly listened to them. I'm not a fan of Old School which is why I've not bothered with Hixxy. Scott Brown is one of my least favourite hardcore DJs while the freeform sound of Sharky I only like on occasion.

Bonkers 13 - Hardcore Horror Show, 29 Dec 2006
Bonkers 13 carries on the value for money tradition of the Bonkers series with four discs of hardcore for the price of one.

The artwork (one of the series' important features) for the cover box is as imaginative as ever, this time themed on horror movies.

CD1 is named as "Hixxy's Old Skool Killa Kuts", which basically means "Oldskool mix". There are quite a few good oldschool hardcore tunes on this that haven't been featured on the CDs before, including some great bouncy techno. It's not the best oldschool mix ever but it's still worth a listen. Some people have criticised the inclusion of oldschool tracks because they believe it detracts from the 'cutting edge' sound of Bonkers... but I think it just completes the package, something for everyone.

CD2 (Sharkey mix) is as you might expect - fast paced and technologically advanced sounding. Since the early days of the compilation Sharkey has mixed a faster, harder and more experimental side of hardcore which has always been important to show just how big the differences within a single style of music can be. Anybody looking for rougher analogue grit might be dissapointed though, as the mix is smoother than others.

CD3 (Scott Brown mix) is Scott Brown's 5th mix of the series. As usual he dishes up a selection of uplifting UK hardcore (though darker at times), before adding even more diversity to the compilation through adding no less than 6 aggressive, bassy Dutch-style hardcore tracks (known in the uk as gabber) - for those who can take it! The only critiscism of this mix is the sheer amount of tracks by Scott Brown - if this disc was on it's own for sale you certainly wouldn't buy it for its variety of artists.

CD 4 (Dougal's Mix) - DJ Dougal returns to the Bonkers series! As per usual the style is cheese, not pushing any high tempos and certainly not pushing any barriers. The track selection includes enough charty vocal tracks to make up for Hixxy ducking out of doing a similar mix, and helps keep the competition up for cheesy compilations like Clubland Xtreme Hardcore.

Overview - What you're after depends on how much you like Bonkers. It's got a bit of everything - Oldskool, frantic trance, uplifting tunes and even some European tunes. If you want to sample everything hardcore has to offer, definately buy a Bonkers comp - but perhaps not this one. Truthfully, there are better CDs in the compilation. Personally I reccomend Bonkers 9 for the sheer innovation of the tracks and Scott Brown's brilliant debut.

Hardcore is the best, 09 Sep 2005
Being new to this type of music i have only just started to mix it with a mate but god damn this stuff gets u going.
The beats are as smooth as you want and scott brown has set a new boundary in hardcore

the best cd is scott browns (kicks ass) but maybe a bit of DJ SY on bonkers would be better as well but oh well its a great album nontheless except for only one thing, some of the music can sound the same and can become quite repetitive but that is all sereiously reccomended

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The third CD by Scott Brown.. Well it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which rocks. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The thirds CD by Scott Brown.. Weeeell it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which kicks arse. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

close to perfection, 21 Jan 2008
The score for the film The Nightmare before Christmas is brilliant in its own strange way. Both the music and the lyrics are written by Danny Elfman, and he also sings the main character of jack Skellington.
The songs are delightful and variated, and you discover something new in the arrangement, every time you listen to them. Besides, the instrumental tracks are beautiful and melancholy, a nice contrast to the humourous and often lively songs. If you like the film or are just a little bit interested in music, you should definetly buy this CD. It has so many great tunes, and the orchestration is just perfect. All in all, a soundtrack quite out of the ordinary.

Magical, 29 Nov 2006
I completely agree with the other reviewer. You shouldn't dismiss The Nightmare Before Christmas as being just a Disney film for kids. The music is so full of depth and charm that even the coldest of reviewers surely couldn't fault it.

While there are some clear standout tracks (Sally's Song, What's This, This is Halloween, Kidnap the Sandy Claws and Oogie-Boogie's song spring to mind), each track is full of the same magical energy and vibrancy that only Danny Elfman can achieve.

Truly wonderful. I bought the DVD first, and found myself humming to the tracks, wishing I had the soundtrack so I could listen to it on my mp3 player.

Superb., 16 Sep 2006
Once again, Danny Elfman has done it again. He is just the best composer by far for musical films. A listen to this will prove my point. It's so, so good.

Nightmare - Revisited...., 30 Sep 2008
Tim Burton's cult classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas has always been held a special place in the hearts of countless people - including myself - that have grown up with the film. The creepy hellish innocence that Burton always manages to bring to his films was never so prominent as in this masterpiece.

Now, celebrating it's 15th Anniversary, the re-release of the soundtrack has fully embraced the alternative goth/rock/metal subculture that holds NBC so dearly. The songs we know and love have all been re-invented and some of the choices of acts to undertake this mammoth task are absolutely spot on. Amy Lee's powerful rendition of Sally's Song is incredibly moving, while Korn's interpretation of Kidnap The Sandy Claws is a thrashing angry stompathon. The jewel of the mosh-along crown is Manson's cover of This Is Halloween - I can't think of anybody better to breath new life into this track, and to hear him seeth "I am the shadow of the moon at night, filling your dreams to the brim with fright." sends tingles down my spine.

All the artists to justice to the tracks they've written - except, unfortuntely, for Flyleaf's apallingly dull version of What's This. For a track that's supposed to bounce and crackle with energy, they've turned it into a depressing funereal dirge - Burton should have put the Fall Out Boy cover back on the tracklisting instead.

Apart from this, the new Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack is a roaring success - by it immediately.

joe meek instros, 11 Jul 2007

THIS RELEASE GIVES GOOD VALUE FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THOSE HARD TO FIND JOE MEEK INSTRUMENTALS,
AND IN A DESERT OF NON BRITISH INSTRUMENTAL RELEASES! A OASIS FOR SILVER SURFERS LOOKING FOR
THOSE ELUSIVE NON SHADOW TRACKS FROM THE 5O'S & 60'S.
OTHER COMPANY'S TAKE NOTE

Instrumental Gem, 11 Jul 2007
I found this an excellent CD, the most comprehensive of his Instrumental productions. There are a few dodgy tracks as there are with all his work.But 60 tracks for under £10 is outstanding value, it also has a very good booklet.

The sound of Joe, 01 Mar 2007
Yet another filler for us obsessive nerds concerning the "British Phil Spector". You will be better advised spending your money on the Tornado's compilation CD's which were the peak of Joe's work in this area. There are one or 2 intriguing rarities - notably "phantom Hussar" which could almost be summoned from the ether at one of Joe and Geoff Goddard's ouija sessions and Dave Rowlands' Besame Mucho which is a catchy, almost punk-like arrangment that should have been rerecorded with vocals instead of the virtually drowned-out pianist. Otherwise, you've heard all the best stuff before and you could happily survive without hearing the rest. Joe's quality control button often went amiss during his career. The notorious tea-chest tapes may contain even worse dross.

Best Hardcore Mix to Date: Dougal Disk, 25 Dec 2007
I'm going to focus on the Dougal Disk here, as it's this that I purchased the cd for. Well it's been a few years since Bonkers 13 was released, and I still find that the Dougal CD is the best hardcore CD I've heard to this day. The Brisk and Kevin Energy CDs on Hardcore Heaven 1 (the one with cartoon artwork of a wierd helmet) are on par in my opinion.

The CD really gets you in a euphoric state of mind, a hardcore paradise if you will. The aptly named "Heaven on Earth" is my favourite track on a mix that builds up beautifully. I think the tune selection is great, they all have mad, clean sounding euphoric riffs, along with some screeching synths in "Xtreme" and "Get Hype." After the insane beginning the mix goes into a brief lull, "Right Here", "Still the One" and "The Theme" are not my favourite tunes. Yet it soon picks up again with some more pounding euphoric hardcore, and as you enter the later stages of the mix you get some really emotional riffs in "Night Flight", "Close Your Eyes" (which begins with an awesome pounding hardstyle bassline) and "Substance". These three tunes, in my mind, really reflect the later stages of a messy night out drawing to a close. "Drifting Away", the last tune is again not one of my favourites, but it's ok and I know a lot of hardcore heads love it.

All in all I'd say if you were new to hardcore, or trying to get your mates into hardcore, then this is definitely the cd to start with. I'd reccoment buying the compilation just for this cd. If you like getting messy at home with friends, girlfriends or whatever, then wack this on for an awesome experience that would even rival being at a rave.

As for the other CD's I cannot say as I've hardly listened to them. I'm not a fan of Old School which is why I've not bothered with Hixxy. Scott Brown is one of my least favourite hardcore DJs while the freeform sound of Sharky I only like on occasion.

Bonkers 13 - Hardcore Horror Show, 29 Dec 2006
Bonkers 13 carries on the value for money tradition of the Bonkers series with four discs of hardcore for the price of one.

The artwork (one of the series' important features) for the cover box is as imaginative as ever, this time themed on horror movies.

CD1 is named as "Hixxy's Old Skool Killa Kuts", which basically means "Oldskool mix". There are quite a few good oldschool hardcore tunes on this that haven't been featured on the CDs before, including some great bouncy techno. It's not the best oldschool mix ever but it's still worth a listen. Some people have criticised the inclusion of oldschool tracks because they believe it detracts from the 'cutting edge' sound of Bonkers... but I think it just completes the package, something for everyone.

CD2 (Sharkey mix) is as you might expect - fast paced and technologically advanced sounding. Since the early days of the compilation Sharkey has mixed a faster, harder and more experimental side of hardcore which has always been important to show just how big the differences within a single style of music can be. Anybody looking for rougher analogue grit might be dissapointed though, as the mix is smoother than others.

CD3 (Scott Brown mix) is Scott Brown's 5th mix of the series. As usual he dishes up a selection of uplifting UK hardcore (though darker at times), before adding even more diversity to the compilation through adding no less than 6 aggressive, bassy Dutch-style hardcore tracks (known in the uk as gabber) - for those who can take it! The only critiscism of this mix is the sheer amount of tracks by Scott Brown - if this disc was on it's own for sale you certainly wouldn't buy it for its variety of artists.

CD 4 (Dougal's Mix) - DJ Dougal returns to the Bonkers series! As per usual the style is cheese, not pushing any high tempos and certainly not pushing any barriers. The track selection includes enough charty vocal tracks to make up for Hixxy ducking out of doing a similar mix, and helps keep the competition up for cheesy compilations like Clubland Xtreme Hardcore.

Overview - What you're after depends on how much you like Bonkers. It's got a bit of everything - Oldskool, frantic trance, uplifting tunes and even some European tunes. If you want to sample everything hardcore has to offer, definately buy a Bonkers comp - but perhaps not this one. Truthfully, there are better CDs in the compilation. Personally I reccomend Bonkers 9 for the sheer innovation of the tracks and Scott Brown's brilliant debut.

Hardcore is the best, 09 Sep 2005
Being new to this type of music i have only just started to mix it with a mate but god damn this stuff gets u going.
The beats are as smooth as you want and scott brown has set a new boundary in hardcore

the best cd is scott browns (kicks ass) but maybe a bit of DJ SY on bonkers would be better as well but oh well its a great album nontheless except for only one thing, some of the music can sound the same and can become quite repetitive but that is all sereiously reccomended

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The third CD by Scott Brown.. Well it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which rocks. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The thirds CD by Scott Brown.. Weeeell it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which kicks arse. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

A Wonderful Re-Mastered Version of a Great Soundtrack, 07 Nov 2007
I got this CD for my boyfriend for Christmas last year, and he absolutely loves it!
Both of us are Tim Burton and "Nightmare Before Christmas" fans, so of course it wasn't long before I borrowed it for myself.

The first disc is basically the original soundtrack, so if you already have the standard version then you'll already know what tracks are there and how great it is to listen to. A wonderful addition is that the soundtrack has actually been re-mastered, so the music is clearer, and still a delight to hear.

The second disc is where it gets interesting. The first four tracks are songs from the delightful movie performed by well known artists. Here's the basic rundown.
"This is Halloween", performed by Marilyn Manson: he really does good impersonations of the various ghoul and ghost characters that sing in this piece. And of course, Mr Manson himself is the "prince of darkness" so the two really accommodate each other. The guitars in this song are not too heavy for non-fans of Manson to be thrown off listening to this track.

"Sally's Song", performed by Fiona Apple: her deep, husky voice and thought provoking performance really brings out an emotional depth that transcends the original version. The band performing with her really out do themselves as well. Easily my favourite on the 2nd disc.

"What's this?", performed by Fall Out Boy: Ok, they're not my favourite band, but they bring good energy into this up-beat song, and the intro is nicely done to drag you in. All in all a good attempt!

"Kidnap the Santy Claws", performed by She Wants Revenge: when I first listened to the song, I barely recognised it, I couldn't sing along with it because I failed to find the melody. The vocals are slightly monotone as well. I'm not a fan of She Wants Revenge anyway, which may have something to do with it. Fans may enjoy this rendition of it.

"This is Halloween", performed by Panic at the Disco: Personally I would've like this band to perform another song on the soundtrack, just simply because after hearing Marilyn Manson's version people will compare. Plus there are so many other great songs to choose from. But it was a creative attempt, using various instruments and again bring out the individual characters in the song in a whole new light. Yet again this band I don't listen to on a regular basis so my comments are slightly limited.

The last four are demos of four songs from the original soundtrack sung by Danny Elfman, it's great to hear all the additional lines that weren't added to the final version of movie and Danny sings as smoothly and superbly as ever.

This is a must have CD if you love the movie and don't already hold the soundtrack in your music collection. Even if you do have the original version the enhancement of the 1st disc and the additional 2nd disc is enough to make any fan rush to the check out with this in their basket.
If you love musical soundtracks, gothic under-tone music and/or a fan of Danny Elfman's work, this is a must.

The CD comes with a booklet containing lyrics, 2 discs of music and a 3D (holographic) cover. Please plus note that this is an import from America which is why the price is notably higher than the standard version.

close to perfection, 21 Jan 2008
The score for the film The Nightmare before Christmas is brilliant in its own strange way. Both the music and the lyrics are written by Danny Elfman, and he also sings the main character of jack Skellington.
The songs are delightful and variated, and you discover something new in the arrangement, every time you listen to them. Besides, the instrumental tracks are beautiful and melancholy, a nice contrast to the humourous and often lively songs. If you like the film or are just a little bit interested in music, you should definetly buy this CD. It has so many great tunes, and the orchestration is just perfect. All in all, a soundtrack quite out of the ordinary.

Magical, 29 Nov 2006
I completely agree with the other reviewer. You shouldn't dismiss The Nightmare Before Christmas as being just a Disney film for kids. The music is so full of depth and charm that even the coldest of reviewers surely couldn't fault it.

While there are some clear standout tracks (Sally's Song, What's This, This is Halloween, Kidnap the Sandy Claws and Oogie-Boogie's song spring to mind), each track is full of the same magical energy and vibrancy that only Danny Elfman can achieve.

Truly wonderful. I bought the DVD first, and found myself humming to the tracks, wishing I had the soundtrack so I could listen to it on my mp3 player.

Superb., 16 Sep 2006
Once again, Danny Elfman has done it again. He is just the best composer by far for musical films. A listen to this will prove my point. It's so, so good.

Nightmare - Revisited...., 30 Sep 2008
Tim Burton's cult classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas has always been held a special place in the hearts of countless people - including myself - that have grown up with the film. The creepy hellish innocence that Burton always manages to bring to his films was never so prominent as in this masterpiece.

Now, celebrating it's 15th Anniversary, the re-release of the soundtrack has fully embraced the alternative goth/rock/metal subculture that holds NBC so dearly. The songs we know and love have all been re-invented and some of the choices of acts to undertake this mammoth task are absolutely spot on. Amy Lee's powerful rendition of Sally's Song is incredibly moving, while Korn's interpretation of Kidnap The Sandy Claws is a thrashing angry stompathon. The jewel of the mosh-along crown is Manson's cover of This Is Halloween - I can't think of anybody better to breath new life into this track, and to hear him seeth "I am the shadow of the moon at night, filling your dreams to the brim with fright." sends tingles down my spine.

All the artists to justice to the tracks they've written - except, unfortuntely, for Flyleaf's apallingly dull version of What's This. For a track that's supposed to bounce and crackle with energy, they've turned it into a depressing funereal dirge - Burton should have put the Fall Out Boy cover back on the tracklisting instead.

Apart from this, the new Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack is a roaring success - by it immediately.

joe meek instros, 11 Jul 2007

THIS RELEASE GIVES GOOD VALUE FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THOSE HARD TO FIND JOE MEEK INSTRUMENTALS,
AND IN A DESERT OF NON BRITISH INSTRUMENTAL RELEASES! A OASIS FOR SILVER SURFERS LOOKING FOR
THOSE ELUSIVE NON SHADOW TRACKS FROM THE 5O'S & 60'S.
OTHER COMPANY'S TAKE NOTE

Instrumental Gem, 11 Jul 2007
I found this an excellent CD, the most comprehensive of his Instrumental productions. There are a few dodgy tracks as there are with all his work.But 60 tracks for under £10 is outstanding value, it also has a very good booklet.

The sound of Joe, 01 Mar 2007
Yet another filler for us obsessive nerds concerning the "British Phil Spector". You will be better advised spending your money on the Tornado's compilation CD's which were the peak of Joe's work in this area. There are one or 2 intriguing rarities - notably "phantom Hussar" which could almost be summoned from the ether at one of Joe and Geoff Goddard's ouija sessions and Dave Rowlands' Besame Mucho which is a catchy, almost punk-like arrangment that should have been rerecorded with vocals instead of the virtually drowned-out pianist. Otherwise, you've heard all the best stuff before and you could happily survive without hearing the rest. Joe's quality control button often went amiss during his career. The notorious tea-chest tapes may contain even worse dross.

Best Hardcore Mix to Date: Dougal Disk, 25 Dec 2007
I'm going to focus on the Dougal Disk here, as it's this that I purchased the cd for. Well it's been a few years since Bonkers 13 was released, and I still find that the Dougal CD is the best hardcore CD I've heard to this day. The Brisk and Kevin Energy CDs on Hardcore Heaven 1 (the one with cartoon artwork of a wierd helmet) are on par in my opinion.

The CD really gets you in a euphoric state of mind, a hardcore paradise if you will. The aptly named "Heaven on Earth" is my favourite track on a mix that builds up beautifully. I think the tune selection is great, they all have mad, clean sounding euphoric riffs, along with some screeching synths in "Xtreme" and "Get Hype." After the insane beginning the mix goes into a brief lull, "Right Here", "Still the One" and "The Theme" are not my favourite tunes. Yet it soon picks up again with some more pounding euphoric hardcore, and as you enter the later stages of the mix you get some really emotional riffs in "Night Flight", "Close Your Eyes" (which begins with an awesome pounding hardstyle bassline) and "Substance". These three tunes, in my mind, really reflect the later stages of a messy night out drawing to a close. "Drifting Away", the last tune is again not one of my favourites, but it's ok and I know a lot of hardcore heads love it.

All in all I'd say if you were new to hardcore, or trying to get your mates into hardcore, then this is definitely the cd to start with. I'd reccoment buying the compilation just for this cd. If you like getting messy at home with friends, girlfriends or whatever, then wack this on for an awesome experience that would even rival being at a rave.

As for the other CD's I cannot say as I've hardly listened to them. I'm not a fan of Old School which is why I've not bothered with Hixxy. Scott Brown is one of my least favourite hardcore DJs while the freeform sound of Sharky I only like on occasion.

Bonkers 13 - Hardcore Horror Show, 29 Dec 2006
Bonkers 13 carries on the value for money tradition of the Bonkers series with four discs of hardcore for the price of one.

The artwork (one of the series' important features) for the cover box is as imaginative as ever, this time themed on horror movies.

CD1 is named as "Hixxy's Old Skool Killa Kuts", which basically means "Oldskool mix". There are quite a few good oldschool hardcore tunes on this that haven't been featured on the CDs before, including some great bouncy techno. It's not the best oldschool mix ever but it's still worth a listen. Some people have criticised the inclusion of oldschool tracks because they believe it detracts from the 'cutting edge' sound of Bonkers... but I think it just completes the package, something for everyone.

CD2 (Sharkey mix) is as you might expect - fast paced and technologically advanced sounding. Since the early days of the compilation Sharkey has mixed a faster, harder and more experimental side of hardcore which has always been important to show just how big the differences within a single style of music can be. Anybody looking for rougher analogue grit might be dissapointed though, as the mix is smoother than others.

CD3 (Scott Brown mix) is Scott Brown's 5th mix of the series. As usual he dishes up a selection of uplifting UK hardcore (though darker at times), before adding even more diversity to the compilation through adding no less than 6 aggressive, bassy Dutch-style hardcore tracks (known in the uk as gabber) - for those who can take it! The only critiscism of this mix is the sheer amount of tracks by Scott Brown - if this disc was on it's own for sale you certainly wouldn't buy it for its variety of artists.

CD 4 (Dougal's Mix) - DJ Dougal returns to the Bonkers series! As per usual the style is cheese, not pushing any high tempos and certainly not pushing any barriers. The track selection includes enough charty vocal tracks to make up for Hixxy ducking out of doing a similar mix, and helps keep the competition up for cheesy compilations like Clubland Xtreme Hardcore.

Overview - What you're after depends on how much you like Bonkers. It's got a bit of everything - Oldskool, frantic trance, uplifting tunes and even some European tunes. If you want to sample everything hardcore has to offer, definately buy a Bonkers comp - but perhaps not this one. Truthfully, there are better CDs in the compilation. Personally I reccomend Bonkers 9 for the sheer innovation of the tracks and Scott Brown's brilliant debut.

Hardcore is the best, 09 Sep 2005
Being new to this type of music i have only just started to mix it with a mate but god damn this stuff gets u going.
The beats are as smooth as you want and scott brown has set a new boundary in hardcore

the best cd is scott browns (kicks ass) but maybe a bit of DJ SY on bonkers would be better as well but oh well its a great album nontheless except for only one thing, some of the music can sound the same and can become quite repetitive but that is all sereiously reccomended

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The third CD by Scott Brown.. Well it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which rocks. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The thirds CD by Scott Brown.. Weeeell it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which kicks arse. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

A Wonderful Re-Mastered Version of a Great Soundtrack, 07 Nov 2007
I got this CD for my boyfriend for Christmas last year, and he absolutely loves it!
Both of us are Tim Burton and "Nightmare Before Christmas" fans, so of course it wasn't long before I borrowed it for myself.

The first disc is basically the original soundtrack, so if you already have the standard version then you'll already know what tracks are there and how great it is to listen to. A wonderful addition is that the soundtrack has actually been re-mastered, so the music is clearer, and still a delight to hear.

The second disc is where it gets interesting. The first four tracks are songs from the delightful movie performed by well known artists. Here's the basic rundown.
"This is Halloween", performed by Marilyn Manson: he really does good impersonations of the various ghoul and ghost characters that sing in this piece. And of course, Mr Manson himself is the "prince of darkness" so the two really accommodate each other. The guitars in this song are not too heavy for non-fans of Manson to be thrown off listening to this track.

"Sally's Song", performed by Fiona Apple: her deep, husky voice and thought provoking performance really brings out an emotional depth that transcends the original version. The band performing with her really out do themselves as well. Easily my favourite on the 2nd disc.

"What's this?", performed by Fall Out Boy: Ok, they're not my favourite band, but they bring good energy into this up-beat song, and the intro is nicely done to drag you in. All in all a good attempt!

"Kidnap the Santy Claws", performed by She Wants Revenge: when I first listened to the song, I barely recognised it, I couldn't sing along with it because I failed to find the melody. The vocals are slightly monotone as well. I'm not a fan of She Wants Revenge anyway, which may have something to do with it. Fans may enjoy this rendition of it.

"This is Halloween", performed by Panic at the Disco: Personally I would've like this band to perform another song on the soundtrack, just simply because after hearing Marilyn Manson's version people will compare. Plus there are so many other great songs to choose from. But it was a creative attempt, using various instruments and again bring out the individual characters in the song in a whole new light. Yet again this band I don't listen to on a regular basis so my comments are slightly limited.

The last four are demos of four songs from the original soundtrack sung by Danny Elfman, it's great to hear all the additional lines that weren't added to the final version of movie and Danny sings as smoothly and superbly as ever.

This is a must have CD if you love the movie and don't already hold the soundtrack in your music collection. Even if you do have the original version the enhancement of the 1st disc and the additional 2nd disc is enough to make any fan rush to the check out with this in their basket.
If you love musical soundtracks, gothic under-tone music and/or a fan of Danny Elfman's work, this is a must.

The CD comes with a booklet containing lyrics, 2 discs of music and a 3D (holographic) cover. Please plus note that this is an import from America which is why the price is notably higher than the standard version.

Dinner with Drac, 19 Nov 2006
Mainly a collection of vintage rock'n'roll which Ace specialize in but this is a sub genre which had its roots in such as Screammin' Jay Hawkins and John Zacherle-whose Dinner With Drac is on one of the Golden Age series.
The real classic here is Bobby Boris Pickett's Monster Mash and the CD starts off with an airshot of Pickett's speaking voice.It topped the charts in 1962 and finally made it to the U K in 1974.
Informative sleeve notes tell you who all these mostly failed recording artists were and the title is brilliant

Fiendishly frightening monster rockin', 16 May 2006
Oh dear, if only my fellow reviewer had read what it says on the sleeve of this CD! This is another ghoulish classic from the vaults of ACE records. A fine mixture of Doo Wop, Rock 'n' Roll and just a pinch of Frat Rock...and who could turn down a novelty Frankenstein song or two! Pull you sweetheart close and get ready for some spooky sounds from the crypt. Go-Go Dracula Go!

Not what we expected, 05 Jan 2006
We thought we would get something to add to our Halloween party music stash, but this CD is something that frankly we will never use. Maybe for adults with an interest in this genre or "classic" horror film buffs this would be good, but not the casual listener and certainly not someone with kid's parties in mind.

If you're looking for a wealth of sounds that occur in discrete chunks--that is, in less than two-minute episodes--then Sounds of Horror, Sci-Fi, the Weird is ideal. With 63 tracks ranging from "Wind and Shutters Banging" to "Mad Doctor's Operating Room" and "Chainsaw Starting and Running," this collection is the work of unadulterated sonic grimness. Which is to say, it's perfect if you want to set a mood in parts of the house for fright night, or if you want to play multiple CDs to keep the party guests on their toes. The sound effects aren't interwoven (for that, try Halloween Horror: Scary Sounds from the Hex Files or Screamin' Halloween Sounds), but they come with enough proximity to each other to keep the mind and heart racing as one bursts, only to subside and introduce another. No cheesy compressed bits here, as everything is vivid and bright--at least sonically. After all, it's all dark (except for the bizarre "Hip, Hip Hooray Cheers" or "Surf and Seagulls"). --Andrew Bartlett

close to perfection, 21 Jan 2008
The score for the film The Nightmare before Christmas is brilliant in its own strange way. Both the music and the lyrics are written by Danny Elfman, and he also sings the main character of jack Skellington.
The songs are delightful and variated, and you discover something new in the arrangement, every time you listen to them. Besides, the instrumental tracks are beautiful and melancholy, a nice contrast to the humourous and often lively songs. If you like the film or are just a little bit interested in music, you should definetly buy this CD. It has so many great tunes, and the orchestration is just perfect. All in all, a soundtrack quite out of the ordinary.

Magical, 29 Nov 2006
I completely agree with the other reviewer. You shouldn't dismiss The Nightmare Before Christmas as being just a Disney film for kids. The music is so full of depth and charm that even the coldest of reviewers surely couldn't fault it.

While there are some clear standout tracks (Sally's Song, What's This, This is Halloween, Kidnap the Sandy Claws and Oogie-Boogie's song spring to mind), each track is full of the same magical energy and vibrancy that only Danny Elfman can achieve.

Truly wonderful. I bought the DVD first, and found myself humming to the tracks, wishing I had the soundtrack so I could listen to it on my mp3 player.

Superb., 16 Sep 2006
Once again, Danny Elfman has done it again. He is just the best composer by far for musical films. A listen to this will prove my point. It's so, so good.

Nightmare - Revisited...., 30 Sep 2008
Tim Burton's cult classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas has always been held a special place in the hearts of countless people - including myself - that have grown up with the film. The creepy hellish innocence that Burton always manages to bring to his films was never so prominent as in this masterpiece.

Now, celebrating it's 15th Anniversary, the re-release of the soundtrack has fully embraced the alternative goth/rock/metal subculture that holds NBC so dearly. The songs we know and love have all been re-invented and some of the choices of acts to undertake this mammoth task are absolutely spot on. Amy Lee's powerful rendition of Sally's Song is incredibly moving, while Korn's interpretation of Kidnap The Sandy Claws is a thrashing angry stompathon. The jewel of the mosh-along crown is Manson's cover of This Is Halloween - I can't think of anybody better to breath new life into this track, and to hear him seeth "I am the shadow of the moon at night, filling your dreams to the brim with fright." sends tingles down my spine.

All the artists to justice to the tracks they've written - except, unfortuntely, for Flyleaf's apallingly dull version of What's This. For a track that's supposed to bounce and crackle with energy, they've turned it into a depressing funereal dirge - Burton should have put the Fall Out Boy cover back on the tracklisting instead.

Apart from this, the new Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack is a roaring success - by it immediately.

joe meek instros, 11 Jul 2007

THIS RELEASE GIVES GOOD VALUE FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THOSE HARD TO FIND JOE MEEK INSTRUMENTALS,
AND IN A DESERT OF NON BRITISH INSTRUMENTAL RELEASES! A OASIS FOR SILVER SURFERS LOOKING FOR
THOSE ELUSIVE NON SHADOW TRACKS FROM THE 5O'S & 60'S.
OTHER COMPANY'S TAKE NOTE

Instrumental Gem, 11 Jul 2007
I found this an excellent CD, the most comprehensive of his Instrumental productions. There are a few dodgy tracks as there are with all his work.But 60 tracks for under £10 is outstanding value, it also has a very good booklet.

The sound of Joe, 01 Mar 2007
Yet another filler for us obsessive nerds concerning the "British Phil Spector". You will be better advised spending your money on the Tornado's compilation CD's which were the peak of Joe's work in this area. There are one or 2 intriguing rarities - notably "phantom Hussar" which could almost be summoned from the ether at one of Joe and Geoff Goddard's ouija sessions and Dave Rowlands' Besame Mucho which is a catchy, almost punk-like arrangment that should have been rerecorded with vocals instead of the virtually drowned-out pianist. Otherwise, you've heard all the best stuff before and you could happily survive without hearing the rest. Joe's quality control button often went amiss during his career. The notorious tea-chest tapes may contain even worse dross.

Best Hardcore Mix to Date: Dougal Disk, 25 Dec 2007
I'm going to focus on the Dougal Disk here, as it's this that I purchased the cd for. Well it's been a few years since Bonkers 13 was released, and I still find that the Dougal CD is the best hardcore CD I've heard to this day. The Brisk and Kevin Energy CDs on Hardcore Heaven 1 (the one with cartoon artwork of a wierd helmet) are on par in my opinion.

The CD really gets you in a euphoric state of mind, a hardcore paradise if you will. The aptly named "Heaven on Earth" is my favourite track on a mix that builds up beautifully. I think the tune selection is great, they all have mad, clean sounding euphoric riffs, along with some screeching synths in "Xtreme" and "Get Hype." After the insane beginning the mix goes into a brief lull, "Right Here", "Still the One" and "The Theme" are not my favourite tunes. Yet it soon picks up again with some more pounding euphoric hardcore, and as you enter the later stages of the mix you get some really emotional riffs in "Night Flight", "Close Your Eyes" (which begins with an awesome pounding hardstyle bassline) and "Substance". These three tunes, in my mind, really reflect the later stages of a messy night out drawing to a close. "Drifting Away", the last tune is again not one of my favourites, but it's ok and I know a lot of hardcore heads love it.

All in all I'd say if you were new to hardcore, or trying to get your mates into hardcore, then this is definitely the cd to start with. I'd reccoment buying the compilation just for this cd. If you like getting messy at home with friends, girlfriends or whatever, then wack this on for an awesome experience that would even rival being at a rave.

As for the other CD's I cannot say as I've hardly listened to them. I'm not a fan of Old School which is why I've not bothered with Hixxy. Scott Brown is one of my least favourite hardcore DJs while the freeform sound of Sharky I only like on occasion.

Bonkers 13 - Hardcore Horror Show, 29 Dec 2006
Bonkers 13 carries on the value for money tradition of the Bonkers series with four discs of hardcore for the price of one.

The artwork (one of the series' important features) for the cover box is as imaginative as ever, this time themed on horror movies.

CD1 is named as "Hixxy's Old Skool Killa Kuts", which basically means "Oldskool mix". There are quite a few good oldschool hardcore tunes on this that haven't been featured on the CDs before, including some great bouncy techno. It's not the best oldschool mix ever but it's still worth a listen. Some people have criticised the inclusion of oldschool tracks because they believe it detracts from the 'cutting edge' sound of Bonkers... but I think it just completes the package, something for everyone.

CD2 (Sharkey mix) is as you might expect - fast paced and technologically advanced sounding. Since the early days of the compilation Sharkey has mixed a faster, harder and more experimental side of hardcore which has always been important to show just how big the differences within a single style of music can be. Anybody looking for rougher analogue grit might be dissapointed though, as the mix is smoother than others.

CD3 (Scott Brown mix) is Scott Brown's 5th mix of the series. As usual he dishes up a selection of uplifting UK hardcore (though darker at times), before adding even more diversity to the compilation through adding no less than 6 aggressive, bassy Dutch-style hardcore tracks (known in the uk as gabber) - for those who can take it! The only critiscism of this mix is the sheer amount of tracks by Scott Brown - if this disc was on it's own for sale you certainly wouldn't buy it for its variety of artists.

CD 4 (Dougal's Mix) - DJ Dougal returns to the Bonkers series! As per usual the style is cheese, not pushing any high tempos and certainly not pushing any barriers. The track selection includes enough charty vocal tracks to make up for Hixxy ducking out of doing a similar mix, and helps keep the competition up for cheesy compilations like Clubland Xtreme Hardcore.

Overview - What you're after depends on how much you like Bonkers. It's got a bit of everything - Oldskool, frantic trance, uplifting tunes and even some European tunes. If you want to sample everything hardcore has to offer, definately buy a Bonkers comp - but perhaps not this one. Truthfully, there are better CDs in the compilation. Personally I reccomend Bonkers 9 for the sheer innovation of the tracks and Scott Brown's brilliant debut.

Hardcore is the best, 09 Sep 2005
Being new to this type of music i have only just started to mix it with a mate but god damn this stuff gets u going.
The beats are as smooth as you want and scott brown has set a new boundary in hardcore

the best cd is scott browns (kicks ass) but maybe a bit of DJ SY on bonkers would be better as well but oh well its a great album nontheless except for only one thing, some of the music can sound the same and can become quite repetitive but that is all sereiously reccomended

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The third CD by Scott Brown.. Well it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which rocks. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The thirds CD by Scott Brown.. Weeeell it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which kicks arse. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

A Wonderful Re-Mastered Version of a Great Soundtrack, 07 Nov 2007
I got this CD for my boyfriend for Christmas last year, and he absolutely loves it!
Both of us are Tim Burton and "Nightmare Before Christmas" fans, so of course it wasn't long before I borrowed it for myself.

The first disc is basically the original soundtrack, so if you already have the standard version then you'll already know what tracks are there and how great it is to listen to. A wonderful addition is that the soundtrack has actually been re-mastered, so the music is clearer, and still a delight to hear.

The second disc is where it gets interesting. The first four tracks are songs from the delightful movie performed by well known artists. Here's the basic rundown.
"This is Halloween", performed by Marilyn Manson: he really does good impersonations of the various ghoul and ghost characters that sing in this piece. And of course, Mr Manson himself is the "prince of darkness" so the two really accommodate each other. The guitars in this song are not too heavy for non-fans of Manson to be thrown off listening to this track.

"Sally's Song", performed by Fiona Apple: her deep, husky voice and thought provoking performance really brings out an emotional depth that transcends the original version. The band performing with her really out do themselves as well. Easily my favourite on the 2nd disc.

"What's this?", performed by Fall Out Boy: Ok, they're not my favourite band, but they bring good energy into this up-beat song, and the intro is nicely done to drag you in. All in all a good attempt!

"Kidnap the Santy Claws", performed by She Wants Revenge: when I first listened to the song, I barely recognised it, I couldn't sing along with it because I failed to find the melody. The vocals are slightly monotone as well. I'm not a fan of She Wants Revenge anyway, which may have something to do with it. Fans may enjoy this rendition of it.

"This is Halloween", performed by Panic at the Disco: Personally I would've like this band to perform another song on the soundtrack, just simply because after hearing Marilyn Manson's version people will compare. Plus there are so many other great songs to choose from. But it was a creative attempt, using various instruments and again bring out the individual characters in the song in a whole new light. Yet again this band I don't listen to on a regular basis so my comments are slightly limited.

The last four are demos of four songs from the original soundtrack sung by Danny Elfman, it's great to hear all the additional lines that weren't added to the final version of movie and Danny sings as smoothly and superbly as ever.

This is a must have CD if you love the movie and don't already hold the soundtrack in your music collection. Even if you do have the original version the enhancement of the 1st disc and the additional 2nd disc is enough to make any fan rush to the check out with this in their basket.
If you love musical soundtracks, gothic under-tone music and/or a fan of Danny Elfman's work, this is a must.

The CD comes with a booklet containing lyrics, 2 discs of music and a 3D (holographic) cover. Please plus note that this is an import from America which is why the price is notably higher than the standard version.

Dinner with Drac, 19 Nov 2006
Mainly a collection of vintage rock'n'roll which Ace specialize in but this is a sub genre which had its roots in such as Screammin' Jay Hawkins and John Zacherle-whose Dinner With Drac is on one of the Golden Age series.
The real classic here is Bobby Boris Pickett's Monster Mash and the CD starts off with an airshot of Pickett's speaking voice.It topped the charts in 1962 and finally made it to the U K in 1974.
Informative sleeve notes tell you who all these mostly failed recording artists were and the title is brilliant

Fiendishly frightening monster rockin', 16 May 2006
Oh dear, if only my fellow reviewer had read what it says on the sleeve of this CD! This is another ghoulish classic from the vaults of ACE records. A fine mixture of Doo Wop, Rock 'n' Roll and just a pinch of Frat Rock...and who could turn down a novelty Frankenstein song or two! Pull you sweetheart close and get ready for some spooky sounds from the crypt. Go-Go Dracula Go!

Not what we expected, 05 Jan 2006
We thought we would get something to add to our Halloween party music stash, but this CD is something that frankly we will never use. Maybe for adults with an interest in this genre or "classic" horror film buffs this would be good, but not the casual listener and certainly not someone with kid's parties in mind.

Second rate, 08 Feb 2006
The very first Buffy soundtrack album was so dark and fresh and buffy-esque, i lived in or near my cd player for nearly 2 years. This 2nd offering and the UK version are both poor follow-ups and have a much more commercial feel, with silly songs that might have been used in the show but they didnt occur at important events or moments, and they really dont capture the darkness of the show at all.It lived in my cd player for 2 plays.

If you don't have the first album, but that.

Genius, 26 May 2005
Had this album for a while now - and still not bored!

It's an excellent album, I'd recommend this to anyone.

Each track is completely different and has a special unique sound. If you are into different kinds of music compiled onto a CD, then this is a must.

Highly, highly recommended!

Good, but...., 28 Dec 2003
Ok, first of all, BUY THE OTHER VERSION!!!! This CD is really good, no doubts AT ALL! The songs are amazing, as per usual, especially Sarah Mclachlen (no surprises there) and the original score of Buffy's final fight! But the other version (as i discovered AFTER i got this one and took the packaging off) has more songs on it!!! So if you're looking for a shorter CD with cool tracks definately buy this one, if, however you're looking for a more comprehensive Buffy CD then buy the other version (I think it's the UK version, it has an orangey cover!!!!).

Chosen, Never Gone From Us, 28 Dec 2003
Fantastic Radio Sunnydale compilation! For all those still in mourning, for those who've bravely moved on (or sampled the Oh My God What A Shame-Lame Angel - Season 5).
Highlights: The Dandy Warhols, Dashboard Prophets, Blur and the Buffy Divas throughout Aimee Mann and Sarah McLachlan.
It's an eclectic hommage to the most creative series on American TV in 1997-2003, unmissable for fans - a must for the curious many. And a priceless keepsake for a whole type of generation that experienced life explosively through this show.

US Version, 10 Nov 2003
Well, this version's okay, it's got Joey Ramone on it. But besides that, get the UK version, it has 21 tracks on it instead of 12, it does have a different cover and is ultimately better. But this is good for completeists.

close to perfection, 21 Jan 2008
The score for the film The Nightmare before Christmas is brilliant in its own strange way. Both the music and the lyrics are written by Danny Elfman, and he also sings the main character of jack Skellington.
The songs are delightful and variated, and you discover something new in the arrangement, every time you listen to them. Besides, the instrumental tracks are beautiful and melancholy, a nice contrast to the humourous and often lively songs. If you like the film or are just a little bit interested in music, you should definetly buy this CD. It has so many great tunes, and the orchestration is just perfect. All in all, a soundtrack quite out of the ordinary.

Magical, 29 Nov 2006
I completely agree with the other reviewer. You shouldn't dismiss The Nightmare Before Christmas as being just a Disney film for kids. The music is so full of depth and charm that even the coldest of reviewers surely couldn't fault it.

While there are some clear standout tracks (Sally's Song, What's This, This is Halloween, Kidnap the Sandy Claws and Oogie-Boogie's song spring to mind), each track is full of the same magical energy and vibrancy that only Danny Elfman can achieve.

Truly wonderful. I bought the DVD first, and found myself humming to the tracks, wishing I had the soundtrack so I could listen to it on my mp3 player.

Superb., 16 Sep 2006
Once again, Danny Elfman has done it again. He is just the best composer by far for musical films. A listen to this will prove my point. It's so, so good.

Nightmare - Revisited...., 30 Sep 2008
Tim Burton's cult classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas has always been held a special place in the hearts of countless people - including myself - that have grown up with the film. The creepy hellish innocence that Burton always manages to bring to his films was never so prominent as in this masterpiece.

Now, celebrating it's 15th Anniversary, the re-release of the soundtrack has fully embraced the alternative goth/rock/metal subculture that holds NBC so dearly. The songs we know and love have all been re-invented and some of the choices of acts to undertake this mammoth task are absolutely spot on. Amy Lee's powerful rendition of Sally's Song is incredibly moving, while Korn's interpretation of Kidnap The Sandy Claws is a thrashing angry stompathon. The jewel of the mosh-along crown is Manson's cover of This Is Halloween - I can't think of anybody better to breath new life into this track, and to hear him seeth "I am the shadow of the moon at night, filling your dreams to the brim with fright." sends tingles down my spine.

All the artists to justice to the tracks they've written - except, unfortuntely, for Flyleaf's apallingly dull version of What's This. For a track that's supposed to bounce and crackle with energy, they've turned it into a depressing funereal dirge - Burton should have put the Fall Out Boy cover back on the tracklisting instead.

Apart from this, the new Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack is a roaring success - by it immediately.

joe meek instros, 11 Jul 2007

THIS RELEASE GIVES GOOD VALUE FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THOSE HARD TO FIND JOE MEEK INSTRUMENTALS,
AND IN A DESERT OF NON BRITISH INSTRUMENTAL RELEASES! A OASIS FOR SILVER SURFERS LOOKING FOR
THOSE ELUSIVE NON SHADOW TRACKS FROM THE 5O'S & 60'S.
OTHER COMPANY'S TAKE NOTE

Instrumental Gem, 11 Jul 2007
I found this an excellent CD, the most comprehensive of his Instrumental productions. There are a few dodgy tracks as there are with all his work.But 60 tracks for under £10 is outstanding value, it also has a very good booklet.

The sound of Joe, 01 Mar 2007
Yet another filler for us obsessive nerds concerning the "British Phil Spector". You will be better advised spending your money on the Tornado's compilation CD's which were the peak of Joe's work in this area. There are one or 2 intriguing rarities - notably "phantom Hussar" which could almost be summoned from the ether at one of Joe and Geoff Goddard's ouija sessions and Dave Rowlands' Besame Mucho which is a catchy, almost punk-like arrangment that should have been rerecorded with vocals instead of the virtually drowned-out pianist. Otherwise, you've heard all the best stuff before and you could happily survive without hearing the rest. Joe's quality control button often went amiss during his career. The notorious tea-chest tapes may contain even worse dross.

Best Hardcore Mix to Date: Dougal Disk, 25 Dec 2007
I'm going to focus on the Dougal Disk here, as it's this that I purchased the cd for. Well it's been a few years since Bonkers 13 was released, and I still find that the Dougal CD is the best hardcore CD I've heard to this day. The Brisk and Kevin Energy CDs on Hardcore Heaven 1 (the one with cartoon artwork of a wierd helmet) are on par in my opinion.

The CD really gets you in a euphoric state of mind, a hardcore paradise if you will. The aptly named "Heaven on Earth" is my favourite track on a mix that builds up beautifully. I think the tune selection is great, they all have mad, clean sounding euphoric riffs, along with some screeching synths in "Xtreme" and "Get Hype." After the insane beginning the mix goes into a brief lull, "Right Here", "Still the One" and "The Theme" are not my favourite tunes. Yet it soon picks up again with some more pounding euphoric hardcore, and as you enter the later stages of the mix you get some really emotional riffs in "Night Flight", "Close Your Eyes" (which begins with an awesome pounding hardstyle bassline) and "Substance". These three tunes, in my mind, really reflect the later stages of a messy night out drawing to a close. "Drifting Away", the last tune is again not one of my favourites, but it's ok and I know a lot of hardcore heads love it.

All in all I'd say if you were new to hardcore, or trying to get your mates into hardcore, then this is definitely the cd to start with. I'd reccoment buying the compilation just for this cd. If you like getting messy at home with friends, girlfriends or whatever, then wack this on for an awesome experience that would even rival being at a rave.

As for the other CD's I cannot say as I've hardly listened to them. I'm not a fan of Old School which is why I've not bothered with Hixxy. Scott Brown is one of my least favourite hardcore DJs while the freeform sound of Sharky I only like on occasion.

Bonkers 13 - Hardcore Horror Show, 29 Dec 2006
Bonkers 13 carries on the value for money tradition of the Bonkers series with four discs of hardcore for the price of one.

The artwork (one of the series' important features) for the cover box is as imaginative as ever, this time themed on horror movies.

CD1 is named as "Hixxy's Old Skool Killa Kuts", which basically means "Oldskool mix". There are quite a few good oldschool hardcore tunes on this that haven't been featured on the CDs before, including some great bouncy techno. It's not the best oldschool mix ever but it's still worth a listen. Some people have criticised the inclusion of oldschool tracks because they believe it detracts from the 'cutting edge' sound of Bonkers... but I think it just completes the package, something for everyone.

CD2 (Sharkey mix) is as you might expect - fast paced and technologically advanced sounding. Since the early days of the compilation Sharkey has mixed a faster, harder and more experimental side of hardcore which has always been important to show just how big the differences within a single style of music can be. Anybody looking for rougher analogue grit might be dissapointed though, as the mix is smoother than others.

CD3 (Scott Brown mix) is Scott Brown's 5th mix of the series. As usual he dishes up a selection of uplifting UK hardcore (though darker at times), before adding even more diversity to the compilation through adding no less than 6 aggressive, bassy Dutch-style hardcore tracks (known in the uk as gabber) - for those who can take it! The only critiscism of this mix is the sheer amount of tracks by Scott Brown - if this disc was on it's own for sale you certainly wouldn't buy it for its variety of artists.

CD 4 (Dougal's Mix) - DJ Dougal returns to the Bonkers series! As per usual the style is cheese, not pushing any high tempos and certainly not pushing any barriers. The track selection includes enough charty vocal tracks to make up for Hixxy ducking out of doing a similar mix, and helps keep the competition up for cheesy compilations like Clubland Xtreme Hardcore.

Overview - What you're after depends on how much you like Bonkers. It's got a bit of everything - Oldskool, frantic trance, uplifting tunes and even some European tunes. If you want to sample everything hardcore has to offer, definately buy a Bonkers comp - but perhaps not this one. Truthfully, there are better CDs in the compilation. Personally I reccomend Bonkers 9 for the sheer innovation of the tracks and Scott Brown's brilliant debut.

Hardcore is the best, 09 Sep 2005
Being new to this type of music i have only just started to mix it with a mate but god damn this stuff gets u going.
The beats are as smooth as you want and scott brown has set a new boundary in hardcore

the best cd is scott browns (kicks ass) but maybe a bit of DJ SY on bonkers would be better as well but oh well its a great album nontheless except for only one thing, some of the music can sound the same and can become quite repetitive but that is all sereiously reccomended

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The third CD by Scott Brown.. Well it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which rocks. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

Disappointing.., 30 Nov 2004
Well. I wasn't expecting a miracle, neither was I expecting tunes of the calibre that Hixxy and Scott Brown were producing some few years ago, but I was disappointed at Bonkers 13.

Hixxy's mix, the first CD, is everything you'd expect from him, stomping old school hardcore. The second CD [Sharkey's] isn't bad, it's got some good tunes on it like K-Complex - Adagio, Robbie Long - Kill Bill, The thirds CD by Scott Brown.. Weeeell it's rubbish, in my opinion. Hardcore isn't meant to be trancey! The only decent track on Scott's mix is his new tune, ''Taking Drugs?'', which kicks arse. The fourth CD [Dougal's], is on a par with Sharkey's.

I'd say it was worth paying 11 quid for this CD just for Hixxy's mix. You may as well buy an old hardcore CD and Scott Brown's new single.

A Wonderful Re-Mastered Version of a Great Soundtrack, 07 Nov 2007
I got this CD for my boyfriend for Christmas last year, and he absolutely loves it!
Both of us are Tim Burton and "Nightmare Before Christmas" fans, so of course it wasn't long before I borrowed it for myself.

The first disc is basically the original soundtrack, so if you already have the standard version then you'll already know what tracks are there and how great it is to listen to. A wonderful addition is that the soundtrack has actually been re-mastered, so the music is clearer, and still a delight to hear.

The second disc is where it gets interesting. The first four tracks are songs from the delightful movie performed by well known artists. Here's the basic rundown.
"This is Halloween", performed by Marilyn Manson: he really does good impersonations of the various ghoul and ghost characters that sing in this piece. And of course, Mr Manson himself is the "prince of darkness" so the two really accommodate each other. The guitars in this song are not too heavy for non-fans of Manson to be thrown off listening to this track.

"Sally's Song", performed by Fiona Apple: her deep, husky voice and thought provoking performance really brings out an emotional depth that transcends the original version. The band performing with her really out do themselves as well. Easily my favourite on the 2nd disc.

"What's this?", performed by Fall Out Boy: Ok, they're not my favourite band, but they bring good energy into this up-beat song, and the intro is nicely done to drag you in. All in all a good attempt!

"Kidnap the Santy Claws", performed by She Wants Revenge: when I first listened to the song, I barely recognised it, I couldn't sing along with it because I failed to find the melody. The vocals are slightly monotone as well. I'm not a fan of She Wants Revenge anyway, which may have something to do with it. Fans may enjoy this rendition of it.

"This is Halloween", performed by Panic at the Disco: Personally I would've like this band to perform another song on the soundtrack, just simply because after hearing Marilyn Manson's version people will compare. Plus there are so many other great songs to choose from. But it was a creative attempt, using various instruments and again bring out the individual characters in the song in a whole new light. Yet again this band I don't listen to on a regular basis so my comments are slightly limited.

The last four are demos of four songs from the original soundtrack sung by Danny Elfman, it's great to hear all the additional lines that weren't added to the final version of movie and Danny sings as smoothly and superbly as ever.

This is a must have CD if you love the movie and don't already hold the soundtrack in your music collection. Even if you do have the original version the enhancement of the 1st disc and the additional 2nd disc is enough to make any fan rush to the check out with this in their basket.
If you love musical soundtracks, gothic under-tone music and/or a fan of Danny Elfman's work, this is a must.

The CD comes with a booklet containing lyrics, 2 discs of music and a 3D (holographic) cover. Please plus note that this is an import from America which is why the price is notably higher than the standard version.

Dinner with Drac, 19 Nov 2006
Mainly a collection of vintage rock'n'roll which Ace specialize in but this is a sub genre which had its roots in such as Screammin' Jay Hawkins and John Zacherle-whose Dinner With Drac is on one of the Golden Age series.
The real classic here is Bobby Boris Pickett's Monster Mash and the CD starts off with an airshot of Pickett's speaking voice.It topped the charts in 1962 and finally made it to the U K in 1974.
Informative sleeve notes tell you who all these mostly failed recording artists were and the title is brilliant

Fiendishly frightening monster rockin', 16 May 2006
Oh dear, if only my fellow reviewer had read what it says on the sleeve of this CD! This is another ghoulish classic from the vaults of ACE records. A fine mixture of Doo Wop, Rock 'n' Roll and just a pinch of Frat Rock...and who could turn down a novelty Frankenstein song or two! Pull you sweetheart close and get ready for some spooky sounds from the crypt. Go-Go Dracula Go!

Not what we expected, 05 Jan 2006
We thought we would get something to add to our Halloween party music stash, but this CD is something that frankly we will never use. Maybe for adults with an interest in this genre or "classic" horror film buffs this would be good, but not the casual listener and certainly not someone with kid's parties in mind.

Second rate, 08 Feb 2006
The very first Buffy soundtrack album was so dark and fresh and buffy-esque, i lived in or near my cd player for nearly 2 years. This 2nd offering and the UK version are both poor follow-ups and have a much more commercial feel, with silly songs that might have been used in the show but they didnt occur at important events or moments, and they really dont capture the darkness of the show at all.It lived in my cd player for 2 plays.

If you don't have the first album, but that.

Genius, 26 May 2005
Had this album for a while now - and still not bored!

It's an excellent album, I'd recommend this to anyone.

Each track is completely different and has a special unique sound. If you are into different kinds of music compiled onto a CD, then this is a must.

Highly, highly recommended!

Good, but...., 28 Dec 2003
Ok, first of all, BUY THE OTHER VERSION!!!! This CD is really good, no doubts AT ALL! The songs are amazing, as per usual, especially Sarah Mclachlen (no surprises there) and the original score of Buffy's final fight! But the other version (as i discovered AFTER i got this one and took the packaging off) has more songs on it!!! So if you're looking for a shorter CD with cool tracks definately buy this one, if, however you're looking for a more comprehensive Buffy CD then buy the other version (I think it's the UK version, it has an orangey cover!!!!).

Chosen, Never Gone From Us, 28 Dec 2003
Fantastic Radio Sunnydale compilation! For all those still in mourning, for those who've bravely moved on (or sampled the Oh My God What A Shame-Lame Angel - Season 5).
Highlights: The Dandy Warhols, Dashboard Prophets, Blur and the Buffy Divas throughout Aimee Mann and Sarah McLachlan.
It's an eclectic hommage to the most creative series on American TV in 1997-2003, unmissable for fans - a must for the curious many. And a priceless keepsake for a whole type of generation that experienced life explosively through this show.

US Version, 10 Nov 2003
Well, this version's okay, it's got Joey Ramone on it. But besides that, get the UK version, it has 21 tracks on it instead of 12, it does have a different cover and is ultimately better. But this is good for completeists.

Contrived, cheesy, bud funny as Hell., 09 May 2007
I love the Evil dead movies. I do mean love, so this review is tarnished by the fact that I loved this before I even heard it. But if you love the movies too, then this won't disappoint. If, like me, you can recite the scripts to all three films (or are familiar enough to recognise most of the major lines) then you'll have a constant grin on your face as they pop up in the most contrived places. The acting is such over-the-top cheese that you won't want a fondue (or in fact, anything else with cheese over the top) for years to come. But this is Evil Dead, not Shakespeare, and everything fits nicely. After a while, you even stop wishing Bruce Campbell was playing ash, though the lead does tend to be channelling bubba-ho-tep Bruce as much as Ash Bruce.
Bottom line: while you wait for the show to get over here, to yourself a favour and buy the CD. You won't regret it.