Customer Reviews

Ray of Light

5 star:		(601)
4 star:		(105)
3 star:		(29)
2 star:		(23)
1 star:		(57)

 

 

Family matters have always been a good forum for Madonna. After all, 1989's "Like a Prayer," dealing with the breakup of her marriage, her mother's death, and her complicated relationship with her father, shattered the notion that Madonna was an artist best relied on for singles; the deep and expressive set made for a mature album that could be enjoyed from start to finish. Unfortunately, subsequent recordings weren't as sharp: "Erotica" and "Bedtime Stories" definitely had their moments but just as surely had their share of filler. Luckily for us, "Ray of Light" picks up on the flip side of "Like a Prayer": this time around, Madonna's the parent, and the topic of family provides a springboard for musings on love versus fame and what a grown adult considers truly important. Adding to the mix is her collaboration with electronica producer William Orbit, making "Ray of Light" one of the most mature and satisfying albums of dance music you're likely to ever hear.

And while the opening track gets things off to an unexpected start with a hypnotic slice of slow rock, the lyrics of "Drowned World/Substitute for Love" set the pace of the record: "I traded fame for love/without a second thought...I found myself in crowded rooms/feeling so alone." Halfway through the song the music backs off and Madonna distances herself from side-effects of fame: "no famous faces, far off places/trinkets I can buy/no handsome stranger, heady danger/drug that I can try." As the list continues the decibel level grows until both Madonna and her music are at an in-your-face level, clearly declaring that fame may be nice but enough is enough.

The club-happy "Nothing Really Matters" is another summation of her new point of view; singing to her newborn daughter, the onetime Material Girl admits that she once "lived so selfishly," but now "everything's changed because of you/nothing really matters, love is all we need." The concept is simple but nonetheless a touching one. It could even be argued that the album's first single, the entrancing "Frozen," holds a deep premise. Lyrics like "you only see what your eyes want to see/how can life be what you want it to be/you're frozen when your heart's not open" could have easily been written from her daughter's point of view, as if Madonna realized during pregnancy what changes in outlook her child would need from her and decided to set it to music.

Not all the lyrical content is parental, however: the slow hip-hop of "Swim" offers a grim look at current events with a nonetheless optimistic plea for change, while "Shanti/Ashtangi" sets her spiritual beliefs to a funky, computer-laden rhythm. And then the midtempo "Power of Goodbye" and the near-Bossa Nova "To Have and Not to Hold" are flat-out love songs, albeit doomed ones. Still other songs appear to be about nothing in particular: "Candy Perfume Girl" is a trippy electronica workout laced with seemingly random poetry, while the frenetic title track has a lyrical spin that is either about Mother Earth, the downscaling of celebrity, or something in between.

And while the drum-and-bass lullaby "Little Star," a blessing to her child for a contented life, may come off feeling a little lightweight, the album's only true stumble is the spooky closer, "Mer Girl." Whereas "Like a Prayer" offered a moving account of a young girl missing her desceased mother in "Promise to Try," "Mer Girl" is instead a dreamlike sequence in which a new celebrity mother is still in search of the mother she didn't have long enough. It may sound like a touching idea, but lyrics like "I smelt her burning flesh/her rotting bones/her decay" are too dour and heavy after twelve tracks of mostly dance music. But all in all, "Ray of Light" marks her most successful connection with dance music and her most compelling efforts as a lyricist. It's a relief to know that, years after enjoyable ear candy like "Holiday" and "Like a Virgin," Madonna grew up and matured over the years just like the rest of us. As she observes on "Sky Fits Heaven": "isn't everyone just travelling down their own road/watching the signs as they go/I think I'll follow my heart/it's a very good place to start." Very good? Some would say brilliant.

This is Madonna's work of art. And this CD is the very best collection of any music she has ever produced since "Erotica." Madonna's lyrics are beautiful and strong because even after 9 years it still stands the test of time. It's completely impossible for this CD to be dated; with the electronica feel to it and fast moving dance numbers, such as the title-track this CD was way ahead of its time. Even in the double-00's "Ray of Light" is still very important as both a dance record and a record of reflection and interpersonal renewal.

Besides the song, "Ray of Light," I also adore "Frozen." This was the perfect song to be the lead-single because it mixed both the old and new Madonna into one. "Frozen" also helped resonate a steady flow of continuity.

I also love the song "Shanti/Ashtangi." In this song Madonna sings a very pretty melody in Sanskrit that is both unique and uplifting. I don't know what she's saying but I do know that I want to keep listening. I wish she would have done an entire CD like this (although she did release a similar song, "Music's" B-side, "Cyberraga" in 2000.)

Some of the other truly magical tracks on this CD are: "Swim" "Skin" and "Sky Fits Heaven." These songs are like pieces to an intricate quilt that come perfectly together. "Ray of Light" is almost like one big tune because all the songs on this CD live as one in perfect harmony.

Why is this CD so perfect? Because it mixes the old with the new. It includes a very young sound that still sounds familiar and welcoming. "Ray of Light" totally reminds me of Madonna's two other greatest masterpieces, "Erotica" and "Like A Prayer."

This is the Madonna that I truly love because this CD was so unique and artistic. She took a huge gamble with "Ray of Light" because she hadn't had a hit record in years and boy did it pay off. You cannot deny "Ray of Light" its place in music history as one of the greatest popular dance records of the 90's.

A reporter in Europe once asked Madonna what she liked the most about the "old Madonna" and she said something to the effect of, "both the old Madonna and new Madonna have a sense of humor about these sort of questions." I suppose she didn't want to spend her time talking about the "old Madonna." Instead she was more interested in the present. And that's what "Ray of Light" is about. It's like a day at the beach with someone you love. It's a reminder that even after the dark there is some light. It's like a sunny day when everything turns out great. In this crazy world, "Ray of Light" gives me hope that there is still some optimism out there. You are home with "Ray of Light."

Madonna has managed to manipulate the media with her outspoken nature and undeniable wit. She has also kept people in suspense by constantly changing her look. People have wanted her career to end, but she is still around and will be around for a long time. Also, some Madonna fans aren't sure that they like her new sound. Do not underestimate Madonna, for she has always managed to surprise us.

Ray of Light is the most artistic and creative album Madonna has ever recorded. Instead of trying a new look (although she did), she decided to try a new sound. Ray of Light is filled with electronic music and edgy dance songs. The result is brilliant. Her voice is stronger than ever and her sound is a lot more refined -- very different from the pop ditties she recorded in the past. Yes, she is not as outspoken as she used to be, but then again she has evolved as a person and as an artist. I love "The Power of Goodbye"; the lyrics are very touching. I also like "Ray of Light," "Frozen," "Nothing Really Matters," and "Skin." The songs have a common theme: spirituality and self-discovery.

I urge you to purchase this incredible CD. And for all of you reluctant Madonna fans out there: Madonna is better than ever. Give this CD a whirl.

This is a superb album. It is well produced and the music is beautiful. The lyrics are simple yet deep and somewhat thought provoking. The artist herself shows an evolution in her vocal ability as well as her songwriting style. Some clever moments are seen in tracks like "Nothing really matters," "To have and not to hold," and 'The Power of goodbye." The latter is a sad yet uplifting ballad which truly stands out as one of Madonna's best tracks in the 90's. Other songs like "Ray of Light" and "Frozen" are good dance anthems that stand out as very good pop material (although this album is touted as "electronica" I wouldn't really place it in that category---except for the fact that William Orbit's genius is behind it). In general I believe this album to be a great recording and I'd like to take a moment to tell all of those people who "review" this album (or any other for that matter) and say a bunch of horrible things only to anger other fans or to insult the artist, you people need to grow up, stop being stupid and offensive. If you don't like a book, CD, movie or any other product please be objective and explain in your review what the flaws may have been. Don't just say that this or that stinks or "I want my money back"type of cliches. Those readers and listeners who actually respect others expect more from Amazon than to read your ridiculous little brain type of comments, OK?

I am big Madonna fan myself. I loved her since the "Borderline" days. I have copies of "Like A Virgin," "True Blue," "Like A Prayer," "Immaculate Collection," "Erotica," "Bedtime Stories," "Something to Remember," "Music," and "American Life." These were all great pop albums, but I am looking for songs which I really can relate to my emotions. If you're also looking for the same thing that I do...you're in the right place. It's the "Ray of Light" album.

I will not dare review all of the singles, simply coz I'm too lazy to type:-). I will just review the songs which simply appealed most to my heart: "Frozen," "The Power of Goodbye," and "To Have and Not to Hold." These 3 tracks is enough to make you purchase the album and say to yourself: "Damn, I made a good purchase!"

1) "Frozen"---A song perfect to dedicate to someone who you really love but can't love you back, but you're still hoping that he/she would open your heart to you. It's like a chant actually...its like invoking to a Superior Being and asking him to make that person love you back. Madonna is also trying to convince the one that she loves to "melt" his heart and eventually love her. Clever and optimistic thought. The sound effects here are enchanting. I listen to this song when I feel "down," as I try to move on. Its somewhat comforting and reassuring, just like a pill...

2)"The Power of Goodbye"---Perfect song for someone trying to move on. You're trying to convince yourself to let go...but sometimes it's just damn hard to say "goodbye" to someone you really love who hasn't loved you back. One of the most emotional Madonna songs ever---with the lines "There's nothing left to lose, there's no more heart to bruise." I love the lyrics, which was aided even more by its sound effects. I imagine myself to be in Near East when I listen to this---it has a certain "Middle Eastern feel" to it. Video is great too---a vacation house near a beach is a perfect place to meditate and mend your broken heart...

3)"To Have and Not to Hold"---Perfect song for someone who you really have an attraction on, but you can't pursue him/her due to certain constraints. Its like blaming your heart for falling for this certain guy or girl, but you shouldn't. A good example---falling for your classmate but can't pursue him/her because he/she likes someone else, so both of you can end up as close friends---but not intimate lovers. This happens to me all the time, and when it happens, I always play this song:-)

Other excellent tracks are "Sky Fits Heaven"---perfect for travelers of "life," "Shanti Ashtangi,"---very mesmerizing, you can even dance to it in the end. "Ray of Light"---the song in which Madonna delivered her most powerful vocals ever, and "Mer Girl,"---very mysterious. In here Madonna became a visionary, just like Bjork.

BOTTOMLINE: Don't patronize my review. BUY this album yourself and give it a try. Trust me, you will be enchanted and you won't regret it...

I find it hilarious that self-absorbed and so called "real" electronic music fans dislike this album. If your into electronic music and you hate madonna, there is something seriousely wrong there. The woman was hand programming 303's while most of you were still in diapers or probably not even born yet. This album did what every other electronic act failed miserably at, blending emotion with machine. And the results speak for themselves. BTW, theres alot more electronic fans that love this and other madonna albums, rather than hate it. I have been a part of the Detroit electronic music scene for over 13 years and I know when to give credit where credit is due. Madonna is our god-mother,...show a little respect.

Madonna has the knack for grabbing you attention and with Ray of Light she keeps it. Profoundly deep and spiritually moving Madonna leads the way(again) for female singer of a new generation. Not to knock others down but what is Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston doing? The same old things...enlisting hard core rap artists to reinvigorate their music. Madonna is on her own-not trying to impress anyone but herself. "Frozen" is an utter masterpeice-the strings and drums give me goosebumps, and vocally she has never sounded better. People don't buy her records to hear her voice as they do Barbra Striesand or Celine Dion-they buy them because she always provides something fresh and new. I wouldn't classiy this album as electonica-it is pop. I think that the electonic sounds give a depth that is unreal. Take "The Power of Goodbye" for example-it is not you typical ballad-the syth sounds and vocal effects give it life and vitallity-unlike so many stagnant "power ballads" of recent years. If you choose to buy her album expect an aray of sounds and feelings-life, death, love, lose, pain, joy, and millions more; expect to be shocked at the music-extremely layered and provoative. Who else would turn an chant into a pop song? But most importantly expect to be moved-you'll be amazed...

I have been a HUGE Madonna fan since I was 15 years old. I am now 38, and I believe this to be her BEST album to date. This album showcases what an amazing voice she has. She truly is talented, and with this album, she shows us a more tender side of her that has come from motherhood. I love this album so much, and even tho it's been out for a few years now, I still listen to it at least twice a week. I will never get tired of it. The lyrics to EVERY song are profound, but my favorite track is "Swim". It truly speaks to me about starting over..... I also REALLY love "Shanti/Ashangti". Altogether, there is not one single bad song on this cd. It is beautiful and it flows like magic. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in expanding their mind. However, I will say, this album is NOT for people who do not have open minds. In "Frozen" she reminds us "....you're so consumed with how much you get / you live your life with hate and regret...." Obviously, NOT for the close-minded!

This is Madonna's first techno/trance-themed album. When I first heard the first song to this album, I was like "WOW!!!" I bought the album before I heard any of the songs on the radio, in January or February of 1998. I thought the album was out of this world. And I thought it was an improvement from Bedtime Stories because Bedtime Stories had too many slow songs. All the songs on this album blend into each other very well. After awhile, the songs just get me into a meditative kind of mood. It's very different from a lot of techno/trance music I usually listen to. I recommend this to anyone who likes techno/dance/'90s music. Madonna is always changing her style and keeping up with the times. :)

4 Grammy's can't be wrong, especially when one of them was the coveted "Pop Album of the Year." Hands down, this is the best album Madonna has made, and one of the most innovated releases in years. As in her usual style, she creates an unprecidented musical style: trippy techno with intimate emotion. Something that has never been done before. The result? 13 of pop's most incredible portraits. The album spawned three mega-hit singles: the haunting, meditative "FROZEN" (unlike ANYTHING she has EVER done!), the classic Madonna dance anthem "RAY OF LIGHT", and the tear-jerking powerballad "THE POWER OF GOOD-BYE", which ranks up there with "LIVE TO TELL", "RAIN", and "TAKE A BOW" as one of her classic ballad performances. The album also features the club anthems "NOTHING REALLY MATTERS" and "SKY FITS HEAVEN," the highly-publicized "DROWNED WORLD/SUBSTITUTE FOR LOVE", and her lulliby to her daugheter "LITTLE STAR." An essential recording, and proof that Madonna will NEVER fade away!