Classics: The Early Years/The Jazz Singer/Beautiful Noise [BOX SET]

Neil Diamond

Product Details

• Audio CD (August 12, 1997)
• Original Release Date: August 12, 1997
• Number of Discs: 3
• Format: Box set
• Note on Boxed Sets: During shipping, discs in boxed sets occasionally become dislodged without damage. Please examine and play these discs. If you are not completely satisfied, we'll refund or replace your purchase.
• Label: Sony
• ASIN: B000002AKD
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #219,983 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Neil Diamond began his career as a hit-making songwriter from the Brill Building song factory, so he knows his way around a pop song more than most folks. Classics: The Early Years marks the time when he was in transition, continuing to write for others--"I'm a Believer" was a hit for the Monkees in 1967--while making his own records for the Bang label. Diamond's early hits were indeed gems: the snappy "Cherry, Cherry," "Kentucky Woman," "Girl, You'll Be a Woman Soon," and his own take on "I'm a Believer," among others. Diamond's act later devolved into adult-contemporary schlock, but for a few years in the late '60s, he was absolutely at the top of his game. --Daniel Durchholz

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars The best buy for new Diamond Fans and old alike!, July 23, 2001

By A Customer

This three CD set covers three distinct and very different periods in Neil Diamond's massively successful career as the premier singer-songwriter to survive the 60's. Ok, Ok, maybe you are turned off by his always a few years out of style haircuts, glittery shirts and easy pop-hooks but that is no reason not to expose yourself to some of THE most enduring pop ballads of all time. With Neil Diamond Tribute bands packing clubs and even movies about the tribute artists packing Art House Theaters, it was high time VH1 premiered a BEHIND THE MUSIC on him. If like me, you just finished watching that special only to be compelled to sign on Amazon and buy as many of his CDs as you can afford, you should START WITH THIS PACKAGE. The first CD, Early Years contains his most enduring hits of the Sixties without any of the overly self-important tunes from the 70's. These are sparse and painful and sweet and timeless without the cheesy orchestra backings of the 70's material. BEAUTIFUL NOISE is his legendary partnering with The Band's Robbie Robertson and it is a stunning revelation of an album. Don't be put off that you don't know many of the songs. This record was a perfectly blended creation of sublime propertions. The last CD, the soundtrack to the THE JAZZ SINGER is just the nicest memory from my youth. The movie was pretty much a mess but as always, Diamond turned in some of the most achingly wonderful ballads like "Hello Again" and "Love on the Rocks" not to mention his Immigrant Theme Song "America" which was unfortunately co-opted by Michael Dukakis as his theme song in his unsuccessfuly presidential bid. That Dukakis even knew the song is tribute to Diamond's ability to reach wide audiences.

So, don't even hesitate, just One-click order this set right now and maybe next time he's in town, try and go see him since he's still the greatest live performer since Elvis. Believe me, after a few weeks of listening to these CDs and you'll learn to admire those beaded shirts and silly sideburns for the talent that wears them.