Stack-A-Tracks

"I wanted records three, four, and five to be "Spilt Milk" times 10." Roger Manning on the breakup of JELLYFISH.Having gone to college in the Bay Area in the late 60's/early 70's, that's the music I identify with. That era from somewhere starting in the 1960's and into the 1970's was (is) the period of music I like best. It seemed that with each passing year (and decade) I heard less of what I listen for in music. And by the 1990's, thanks to my age and the then current musical styles, I heard even less I liked when compared to the 60's. But then along came JELLYFISH. Their first album, "Bellybutton", seemed to fit in with my musical likes. And with "Spilt Milk", they proved they weren't a "one album" band. Yes I know, they had that retro vibe from the period I like. But underneath all that they were truly a good band. In the studio they played real instruments or hired players for certain sounds/arrangements they wanted. Even sound effects were done live-they actually broke a large mirror in the studio because they wanted to use the sound it made-instead of using a prerecorded sound effect. And live they proved they were exciting to hear in person.And that brings me to this set. It's the basic instrumental tracks as originally laid down by the band all those years ago-no tinkering. Who would think that both albums-shorn of vocals-would be such an interesting and entertaining listen? And could stand on their own? With (virtually) no vocals to concentrate on, so much more of the music-the arrangements and the actual sounds of the instruments-is brought into the clear light of day. There's nothing that will really hit you over the head-it's the subtleties that make for great listening-like the guitar that begins "Russian Hill". All through both albums there's little passages, or a few notes that pop up and then recede that you may have not noticed before. Or maybe it's the guitar in "She Still Loves Him", that comes roaring out of the mix, or the subtle organ that begins "Brighter Day". You're hearing things not only differently, but new. And every track on each album is full of that kind of thing.Occasionally you'll hear some short vocal passages-but they only add to the overall JELLYFISH experience. "Now She Knows She's Wrong" or "Calling Sarah" are great examples of instrumental and vocal mixing. Even if you know the original albums, this is an altogether different listening experience. With emphasis largely on the vocals on the original albums, the band's strengths as players now clearly shows through on these tracks. The arrangements can be heard for what they are-intricate and intelligent-JELLYFISH style.If you're a fan of JELLYFISH, you owe it to yourself to check this out. At times the music sounds like a movie soundtrack from an unknown and unknowable genre. Somehow it all seems to work-just on another level. While the original albums are still the best, there's a lot to hear that was previously hidden underneath all the vocals. As the notes in the booklet say-you'll hear the original albums differently after this. But who knew that hearing the basic instrumental tracks could be so cool?

This release was a real find. The instrument tracks recorded for the original L.P.s are strong. A Jellyfish fan would expect that to be the case but as "stand alone" music, this is a jewel. The lyrics are witty and interesting but this, being the foundation of instruments, bring forward the talent on guitar(s), keyboards and the other instruments without vocals over riding anything. If you're a fan, the lyrics are already in your head so feel free to sing along! This purchase is one of my favorites of late. I will say this, the only negative, the CD jewel case came damaged- this is becoming a problem with several arriving damaged. Luckily, I do have double cases (which are available in bulk from_____) I hope this review will entice listeners to spend a little for a lot of Jellyfish enjoyment. I truly do miss these very talented musicians. Worth while!

I can't imagine any other band for which I'd buy something like this. However, Jellyfish was never just any other band. The experience of listening to these tracks without the lead vocals has been much more powerful than I'd ever have imagined. I, of course, say this as an obsessive Jellyfish fan.If you are not yet a fan, start with the studio albums and then come back for this one. However, if you are a fan -- you really really really need to add this album to your collection. You will not be sorry.

This is a wonderful redention of both the Jellyfish classics. We've heard the originals, the live version and now the music with very limited vocals. I know it ain't gonna happen, but it would be nice to hear some new tunes. Anyways, this is a good slice of instrumental pop music.

What you have here is both of Jellyfish's studio albums sans vocals. This recording lets you hear just how brilliant these musicians were in their heyday. The musical subtleties are simply incredible.It is a completely different experience. A must for Jellyfish fans!

Interesting item , certainly not your usual fare from a pop group.Jellyfish mine their influences well and provide the listener with quite a unique take on their album material.For me it's a shame that there wasn't more .

Fun to sing along with, but i found i needed a lyric sheet to help me along. Some mild sweetener thrown in at times so you know you're in the right spot. Great product & great idea - with a cheesy name.

Oh what fun! Now, if only I could sing, I could have a pretty awesome karaoke party. Well, maybe I'll have a private one. ;-) Seriously, this is a cool concept and I've been enjoying this.

Just spent an afternoon playing this again and again. You get two cds, one for each album. They don't include any pre-track counts or studio chatter, neither do the tracks run on beyond what you're used to from knowing the respective albums. Should you buy it? I debated that and I'm so happy that I did. Obviously you'll need to be familiar with the "sung" versions but there's so much to enjoy. Instrumental parts that weren't apparent in the final mixes, lovely dynamics that again go missing when vocals are overlaid. You also get the occasional background vocal that was - I'm presuming - bounced down to the master backing tracks. The liner notes state that these are straight transfers from those 1/4 inch masters "left untouched for decades". There's no re-mastering here and although I'd love to hear all the Jellyfish stuff remastered it isn't an issue with these cds. If you're a musician you'll appreciate the attention to detail in the arrangements - and the tight playing - and if you aren't you'll marvel at how much is going on. Whoever you are, as long as you're a Jellyfish fan (and even if you aren't) you should really buy this!

Brilliant band

Shh! I'm trying to listen to Jellyfish not sing!Seriously though, it gives you that much more appreciation for the multilayered instrumentation and the depth of the production work that went into these albums, you'll hear things you never even knew were there!

One of the best unknown bands in the world! Take the Beatles, Queen and the Beach Boys and you have Jellyfish, just buy everything you can find, you will NOT be disappointed!

For any fan of Jellyfish this is essential listening. Confirming yet again the short lived genius of a wonderful group.