Search - Samples :: Return to Earth

Finding the groove.....

Jeffrey D. Shetterly | Sarasota, FL United States | 08/04/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Since I saw The Samples for the first time in the early 90's at the H.O.R.D.E. festival, I have been a loyal, big fan. Their music seems to connect with the human spirit in a way that is tough to describe. It seems to be a combination of the grassroots rock, unique rhythms, and thoughtful songwriting that grabs me. "Return to Earth" is the BEST album since "No Room", which was my previous favorite. There isn't one Samples album I have disliked, but they seem to have hit their groove on this one. It's a natural, positive thing, when a band's sound progresses after each album. The Samples seem to have done this, without compromising their grassroots beginnings or selling out to the mass music industry.... The addition of the newer band members, with Sean Kelly and Andy Sheldon, really come together on this effort. "Here and Somewhere Else", their previous album, had some good music, but didn't quite sound like the band had figured out their newer sound. "Return to Earth" finds their new, progressive sound, and maintains their old niche, at the same time. With 14 fresh songs, there is a nice mixture of slower tempo and upbeat rhythms. They have also used a variety of instruments in their songs; mandolin, violin (Boyd Tinsley), sax, and some creative uses of the usual instruments. And, as most good music goes, the CD gets better with each listen. Songs like "Wild River", "Landing on the Sidewalk", "World of Machines", "Class of '79" inspire. "Great Blue Ocean", "Return to Earth", "Lonely Soul", and "Water Under the Bridge" hit deep within. "Nature of the Beast", "Castle Walls", and "Save it for a Rainy Day" are fun. "Radio Song" sums up the music industry, and appears to be right on the mark. If you don't enjoy this album, you are expecting The Samples of 10 years ago. Nothing wrong with that, but the sound of this album is fresher, more complex, and works. Buy it, crank it up, and see them live. You won't be disappointed."

Can I give it 6 stars?

PJ | Madison, Wisconsin | 04/20/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Samples have long been victims of bad timing and poor promotion. But they have continued to make FABULOUS music. Return to Earth is not only their best effort, but may be one of the best albums out there today. Every song on the album is masterful. This album should bring the band to many more listeners, as well as providing devoted Samples fans with what they have come to expect: great music, great lyrics, and a song about Rain!! BUY IT!!!!!!!!!"

Great New Album

PJ | 04/16/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Samples have done it again. I have been listening to them since 1990 and continue to be amazed at the diversity of the music. All of their albums reflect the growth and ever widening influences of the bands main songwriters Sean Kelly and Andy Sheldon. If you are familiar with the Samples, this album is as good as anything they have ever released. If you are not familiar with this band, buy this album, you won't regret it. The best part is they are on tour now and the live version is even better than the studio version."