Customer Reviews

Inside the Mind of Bill Cosby

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I like this more than the last reviewer did, maybe because I'm not as familiar with Cosby's early stuff. But I did grow up watching his show and I have to say I love this album. I wasn't even born until 11 years after it was recorded, and despite the generational gap I can relate to the material. It's timeless. The timing of his variation of tone, the way he can say something completely ridiculous but somehow true, the way he can make you laugh simply by pausing after a build-up, and most uniquely to Cosby his clean, intelligent yet plainspoken style, are all here in this album and do not disappoint.

If you want "GREAT" Cosby, buy any of his 60s albums released on Warner Bros. After that, you can explore these early 70s albums original released on UNI Records and MCA Records, which are still pretty funny but not as good, as Cosby was running out of material. The quality deteriorates even more on his late 70s Capitol releases, and unless you really dig on Cosby, don't bother with the stuff from Geffen. The "Himself" soundtrack is a latterday exception.

I grew up on Cosby's classic 60's Warner LP's (had 'em ALL! Still do! In the process of replacing them all on CD). I came of age in the 70's with the UNI titles which were ALWAYS topical in their day. I have NEVER heard a Cosby album from ANY period that I didn't LOVE! I bought them ALL when I could squeeze together the money to buy 'em. My comedic sensibilities were determined by Bill Cosby. I absolutely loved this set at it's time and I still think it holds up. You have to remember this was NOT the 60's! Things had changed in both America AND comedy (look at the HAIR!). Bill's family (not his childhood) was now his source of comedic inspiration. An earlier reviewer felt that Bill was running out of material. DEAD WRONG!!! Bill's world could and still does endlessly provide for great material. Just because it's not YOUR personal experience or taste does not mean he can't or doesn't bring an hilarious viewpoint to it. This album was a great example. "Froofie The Dog" was one of my personal faves; Bill recounts a negotiation with his daughter to share a TV during the time her favorite shows airs. Of course Mom, Camille, must make the final judgement. What a great punchline; "Now I'm watching 'Froofie The Dog'..."

Bill is the best. I listen to his jokes all the time, the same jokes still make me laugh every time.