Elvis CD Reviews - in-depth CD reviews from Elvis Information Network

Year: 2024

'ELVIS / MEMPHIS' In-depth Review: The SONY RCA 'ELVIS / MEMPHIS' 2024 5-CD box-set was released last month.
The publicity promised.. "MEMPHIS is a comprehensive collection that takes listeners through the many recordings Elvis had done while in Memphis - from his songs at SUN Records, to his American Studio and Stax sessions, through to his 1974 hometown show and finally, his last recordings in Graceland.
This 5-CD collection of Elvis’ songs over the years features 111 tracks, 88 of which are newly mixed versions of the select recordings, pure and without overdubs."
The five CDs each focus on SUN Records, American Studios, Stax Studios, LIVE Mid-South Coliseum Memphis and Graceland. Elvis fans have of course bought these tracks multiple times before and FTD have even released most of the "Undubbed masters".
However with 'ELVIS / MEMPHIS' engineer Matt Ross-Spang remixing these crucial recordings, often creating something unique and new for 2024 and there is much to enjoy.
In fact listening to this set is like a five-course 'MEMPHIS degustation' since every individual recording session has a different flavour and vibe. .
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley provides a 5,500 word review checking out every track to reveal what new excitements fans might discover..
You can also 'Have Your Say' - what did you like or dislike about this new release? NOW UPDATED with Readers comments.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘For LP Fans Only’ ‘A Date With Elvis’ Mono II Stereo' CD review: From the RDM label, "Two classic 1959 Elvis albums, for the first time in stereo".
'For LP Fans Only' brought together songs previously released on 45rpm or on EPs, such as the classics 'That's All Right', 'Lawdy Miss Clawdy', 'Mystery Train' or the song 'Poor Boy'.
'A Date with Elvis' was based on the same principle of compiling previously published 45rpm or 'Extended Play' songs from Elvis' past. It contained other Elvis SUN classics plus 'Baby, I Don't Care' and the haunting 'Is It So Strange'.
Looking back, these two 1959 albums were a strange compilation with their short running time and odd track selection..
The stereo mixes created by producer Anthony Stuchbury, are authentic to original Mono releases but now sound more like the original studio sessions.
Featuring twenty fabulous 50's tracks, EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this intriguing Stereo compilation..
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Las Vegas: On Stage Feb 1973' MRS CD Review: The new MRS 4CD Deluxe-set contains three performances recorded in February 1973, during Elvis’ eighth engagement in Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas shows took place weeks after the historic satellite TV show, Aloha From Hawaii, was filmed and broadcast on 14 January.
All shows are presented in stereo for the first time ever.
All shows are presented in stereo for the first time ever.
A bonus CD of remastered rehearsal tracks that were recorded the day before Opening night is also included.
The accompanying booklet includes rare photographs, memorabilia and liner notes which set the scene.
... This latest release from the Memphis Recording Service is an interesting one and manages to shed new light on the post-Aloha Elvis Las Vegas season that many fans have largely dismissed.

EIN contributor Shane Brown reviews this new set, with added comments from EIN's Piers Beagley.
(CD Reviews, Source;ShaneBrown/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Randy Starr, Presley Style: Lost Elvis Demos' CD Review: Between 1963 and 1968 Randy Starr wrote and produced around 70 songs and 35 of these demos can be found on this CD.
The extensive booklet contains detailed liner notes by British Elvis expert and collector Trevor Simpson, based on interviews he recently conducted with Randy Starr.
This CD features 35 professional demos, yet only six of these are songs that Elvis recorded, ‘Kissin’ Cousins’, ‘The Yellow Rose of Texas’, ‘Look Out Broadway’, ‘Datin'’, ‘Adam and Evil’ and ‘The Girl I Never Loved’.
Previous compilations showcasing Elvis’ other collaborators such as Leiber / Stoller or Tepper / Bennett all celebrated their success in getting their songs recorded by Elvis - whereas this intriguing compilation tells the differing story of supplying endless demos with most of them being rejected. And that provides some of the interest to this release.
EIN's Piers Beagley wonders if you can discover anything new from these pile of demos
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

MRS 'Elvis: The Complete Movie Masters 1960-62' In-Depth Review: This 2024 MRS 'Elvis: The Complete Movie Masters 1960-62 - Plus Session Out-takes' 4CD/Book combo pays tribute to Elvis Presley’s complete master soundtrack recordings made for his movies between 1960-62.
As a bonus two CDs contain rare outtake tracks from these recording sessions and do include unreleased material.
The 140-page book focuses on each of the seven films and is accompanied by informative text, complemented by rare and previously unseen photographs and memorabilia.
In his first two years out of the army Elvis still looked terrific and the book includes a veritable pot-pourii of attractive images for readers to savor.

The set includes the STEREO masters from 'Follow That Dream' that have never been officially released on album, as well as other previously unreleased remastered stereo recordings.
Collectors will not only enjoy the images of Elvis in gorgeous close-up but also nearly five hours of great sixties soundtrack music.

Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson & Piers Beagley provide an in-depth review of this MRS release and check out what's new..

(CD/Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis Presley Rock ’n’ Roll No.2' MONO II STEREO CD Review: Luckily for inquisitive Elvis collectors, producer Anthony Stuchbury is back with his take on Elvis’ second album ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll No.2’.
Rediscover Elvis Presley's second album and four key 1956 singles with a new STEREO mix!
The stereo mixes newly created for this CD allow you to find the naturalness of the original recordings and give the impression of being in the heart of the studio with Elvis and his musicians.
With Mono II Stereo fans can embrace a new way of listening to old albums, rediscovering 'The Young Man with the Big Beat' all over again.
The Stereo 'Bonus Singles', Love Me Tender, Anyway You Want Me, Too Much, Hound Dog, Don't Be Cruel, Playing For Keeps, My Baby Left Me, I Want You, I Need You, I Love You all add to the interest
The stunning thing with ‘Mono > Stereo’ is that you can now tune in to parts you have never heard before.
EIN's Piers Beagley investigates what he discovered from these new Stereo versions.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

MRS 'Follow That Dream' / 'Welcome Home Elvis' 45rpm / CD; Review: Last month the UK label MRS released two exclusive 45rpms and in a totally unique format combining a Gatefold 45rpm sleeve with a 45rpm EP - as well as the neat addition of a ‘CD single’ to go with it. The 45rpms are available in black and crystal-clear vinyl.

- Follow That Dream
For the first time ever the master tracks are now available in true living stereo.
- Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra: 'Welcome Home Elvis'
Throughout his career, Elvis only performed one live duet with another artist Frank Sinatra. These 1960 historic recordings are presented here in the best quality ever.

EIN's Piers Beagley checks out these very collectable MRS releases..
(CD Reviews - ElvisInfoNet)

'ELVIS: At 3am Sahara Tahoe 1973' MRS CD Review: This Deluxe 2CD set features two shows from Elvis’ May 1973 engagement at The Sahara Tahoe in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Included is a rare 3am charity performance as well as the midnight show from the previous night.
Both shows for the first time are presented in stereo.
The accompanying booklet includes memorabilia and rare photos along with liner notes that set the scene.
Despite having to perform three concerts in the one evening, Elvis was feeling inspired and although it was 3am he still treated the ‘Mother’s Day’ benefit more like a Closing Night performance. Elvis was in extremely jovial spirits, teasing the band and adding some crazy lyrics. He also added unique live versions of ‘My Way’, ‘Faded Love’, ‘Funny How Time Slips Away’ and a rare ‘It’s Over’.
With the cassette hiss removed, the musicians and backing-vocals in stereo and Elvis’ vocal raised to the correct level, this MRS release sounds just like an RCA recorded multi-track and is the best representation of the “real Elvis” live in 1973 that fans could hope for.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley checks out a sensational STEREO Elvis double-pack.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

MRS CAMDEN reviews: The UK MRS label have re-released 3 CD titles on its new alternate budget label 'MRS CAMDEN'.
- One Night In Pearl Harbor 1CD
- Elvis On Television 1956 - 1960 2CD
- The Complete 1950's Live Recordings 3CD
All three were released late November 2023.
The releases on MRS CAMDEN are scaled-down budget versions priced for the mainstream market. The titles have slight changes from the original MRS deluxe versions and now come in a Digi-Sleeve packs with small booklets.
There are minor upgrades on each release but they still all pack a punch and cover important sections of Elvis' historical journey. Going from 1954 to 1961 it is one incredible rockin’ trip.
EIN's Piers Beagley checks them out as possible Santa bonus treats...
If you are in the UK and order them on Amazon you can still get them delivered by Christmas Day!
(CD Reviews; Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

UPDATED- CD Review 'The Joan Deary Tapes Vol1' - and has Ernst won the war?’: Two years ago EIN posted an article suggesting that the Elvis bootleg era was over, that FTD and Ernst Jorgensen had truly won the war.
So it was a surprise to many that a new bootleg label ‘Joan Deary Inc’ suddenly popped up two months ago promising a very similar series of releases to the Madison ‘A Legendary Performer’ set.
They promised "Unique content... with never issued before outtakes. Some very different mixes among other glorious sounding tracks. Every track comes in great sound quality and has been remastered for optimal listening pleasure..."
EIN was suspicious from the start - to be honest I saw no need to purchase this CD - but several EIN readers wanted to know more before they put down their hard earned cash.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley investigates to see if there is life in this new series of Elvis bootleg releases...
Please read this before ordering we've done the work so that you don't have to! Now UPDATED with YOUR comments
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Year: 2023

'Elvis Presley Rock ’n’ Roll No.1’ "Stereo" CD Review: Back in May I reviewed ‘From Elvis at Sun’ “Mono II Stereo” compilation and at the time was hoping for more of the same.
Luckily for inquisitive Elvis collectors, producer Anthony Stuchbury is back with his take on Elvis’ first album ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll No.1’ - this time on the French RDM label.
Elvis’ very first LP had two key variations, the well-known classic RCA album and also the UK HMV version. This compilation starts with the 12 tracks from the RCA album then the extra five cuts from the HMV version plus the life-changing ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ single.
It’s a stunning selection of nineteen brilliant Elvis recordings.
“Mono II Stereo” remixing needs a producer who understands what Elvis’ sessions were all about and Stuchbury is not only a super-collector but also a man who really knows his Elvis recordings.
His work here is truly impressive.
With The Beatles releasing their early singles in DES stereo for 2023 Doncha' Think It's Time for RCA / SONY to do the same for Elvis.
EIN's Piers Beagley checks out the wonders of Elvis' first album in stereo
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'ELVIS: Closing Night 1972' MRS CD Review: This MRS 2CD set features a live performance recorded on 4 September 1972,during the last night of Elvis’ seventh engagement in Las Vegas at the Hilton Hotel.
The show is presented in stereo. A bonus CD of remastered rehearsal tracks, recorded days before the engagement began, is also included.
While Elvis is perhaps not as full-blast as on the 'Opening Night' here MRS's 'Studio D' engineer has done some brilliant audio remastering, removing the bad cassette-tape-hiss of all previous releases. Emphasising the instrumentation with this "Stereo remaster" not only elevates Elvis and the musicians' performance but also places the listener right into the audience.
This night Elvis rocked into 'Johnny B. Goode' and even performed the golden-oldies with some real respect.
It's a great show.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley discovers something new in this re-release - the near perfect bookend to MRS' examination of Elvis’ 1972 Summer Festival.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Las Vegas Summer Festival 1972' MRS CD Review: This 4CD set contains a varied selection of live performances drawn from Elvis’ seventh engagement in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel during Elvis’ summer festival in the month of August 1972.
It features the 11 August Dinner and Midnight Show plus 12 August Dinner and Midnight Show. For the first time ever these performances are released in "Stereo". Bonus rehearsal tracks, recorded days before the engagement began, are also included.
The accompanying 40-page booklet includes rare photographs, memorabilia and liner notes help set the scene.
Key songs include My Way, Fever, Its Over, Until It’s Time For You To Go, American Trilogy, What Now My Love, Little Sister/ Get Back, Never Been To Spain, For The Good Times and A Big Hunk O' Love'.
Elvis was in superb form and with more new songs in his set-list sounding even better with the new MRS audio remaster it is a power-packed set.

Go here - EIN's Piers Beagley provides an in-depth review of this recent MRS release.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis LIVE 1972' (double-LP) Review: On this brand new ‘ELVIS LIVE 1972’ double-vinyl release producer Ernst Jørgensen has cleverly included nearly all of the concert highlights from RCA's ‘On Tour’.
The album features a "best of" the four 'On Tour' concerts using one key section from each of the first three concerts (one per vinyl side) plus the missing unique tracks on Side D.
'On Tour' classics from Hampton Roads 'Polk Salad', 'Big Hunk O' Love', from Richmond 'It's Over', Greensboro 'Burning Love', 'Funny How Times Slips Away', 'For The Good Times' plus San Antonio 'Proud Mary', 'How Great Thou Art' are all included...
But if fans already own all these songs from the recent 'On Tour' box-set can this vinyl version really be worth buying?
This title was released on March 24 2023.

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley spins the VINYL, played them loud and rumbled his bass-speakers....
(Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis On Tour' Box-Set In-Depth Review: The January 2023 'Elvis On Tour' SONY release is a 6CD / 1 Blu-Ray box set comprised of the audio from four of the shows (and two rehearsals) that were part of Elvis’ 1972 North American tour.
Originally recorded for the Elvis On Tour concert film that was released later that year, the set features a total of 145 tracks, including 91 previously unreleased tracks, as well as the award-winning concert film on Blu-ray.
RCA/Legacy's Elvis On Tour box set is produced by Ernst Jørgensen and mixed by Grammy Award-winning Memphis-based producer Matt Ross-Spang.
Elvis' April 1972 concerts were magnificent, so hopefully this expensive 50th anniversary release including newly remastered concert performances captures the magnificence and excitement of the movie and Elvis' stunning shows.
After fifty years surely SONY/RCA will get it right.....

EIN's in-depth review by Piers Beagley checks out the positives and negatives in this 4,500 word review ... NOW UPDATED WITH YOUR COMMENTS - HAVE YOUR SAY...
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'From Elvis at Sun' Stereo CD Review: A new ‘From Elvis at Sun’ “Mono II Stereo” release from the Danish Memphis Mansion label.
The compilation includes the five classic SUN SINGLES plus the other nine alternate cuts that RCA would purchase from Sam Phillips.
Keen Elvis fans must surely have a serious fascination about how Elvis' early ground-breaking recordings were created.
Why do Elvis' classic rock’n’roll singles sound so good, especially given the low quality recording equipment of the time? And how were they laid down in the studio?
One way to discover the wonders of 50’s rock’n’roll inventiveness is to examine "stereo" versions of the old mono recordings and it is only since the creation of the cutting-edge audio process DES (Digitally Extracted Stereo) that we can do this.
Previous Mono <> Stereo versions have not quite made their mark. So is it possible that this new 2023 set can help fans appreciate the real magic and brilliance of Elvis at SUN?
EIN's 2,600 word review by Piers Beagley looks in-depth at whether new upgrades in "DES" software can help create something special from these old SUN classics...
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'ELVIS: Opening Night 1972' MRS CD Review: Elvis’ first 1972 Las Vegas season ran from January 26th through February 23rd, 1972. Elvis was in great shape both physically and vocally, and he was once again serious about performing.
While a large number of fans think that Elvis started losing inspiration and impetus after the power-year of 1970, his rejuvenation of his first live performances in 1972 demonstrate another more positive aspect. Introducing the new songs 'You Gave Me A Mountain', ‘I'll Remember You’ , 'A Big Hunk O'Love' and the brilliant 'An American Trilogy' would enrich Elvis’ live shows for the rest of his career. So while Elvis collectors may have heard the bootleg recording multiple times before, you have never truly enjoyed this concert, or appreciated its importance, until this sessional MRS audio Remaster.
Elvis was in superb form and this set-list - along with the new MRS audio remaster - is truly sensational.
Check out EIN's detailed review here

(CD Reviews;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Year: 2022

MRS 'Elvis: Mono To Stereo 1956' CD Review: At the end of last year the UK based MRS label released their Double CD/ Book 'Elvis: Mono To Stereo - The Complete RCA Studio Masters 1956'.
The set contains the complete 1956 RCA studio master recordings in mono and (DES extracted) stereo versions. These were thirty classic RCA recordings that would help change the future of popular music.
The accompanying 20-page booklet includes photographs and memorabilia plus introductory notes.
While 'DES Stereo' remastering can sometimes reveal new details about classic MONO studio recordings, trying to create believable stereo from echoey mono masters is not that easy, even when using "highly advanced sound processing techniques".
Can classic mono tracks such as 'Hound Dog', 'Don't Be Cruel', 'My Baby Left Me' and 'Heartbreak Hotel' really sound better in DES stereo?

EIN's Piers Beagley put on some good quality headphones to provide an in-depth review of this recent MRS release.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Year: 2021

MRS presents 'ELVIS: September 1970' in-depth Review: MRS's new 2CD deluxe set features a new previously unreleased soundboard from 2nd September 1970 and a bonus CD that covers the final rehearsals at the International Hotel on August 10th before the start of the summer festival.
In September 1970 Elvis was still excited to be back on stage and performing for his fans. Newspaper reviews of his concerts wrote about the excitement and fun Elvis was having back on-stage.
This brand-new previously unknown concert captures Elvis feeling 'loose-as-a-goose' yet still performing with a real intensity. His live versions of ‘You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’’, 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' were truly exceptional this evening.
The accompanying 40-page booklet of the CD deluxe includes rare photographs and memorabilia taken during these engagements along with introductory notes.

EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new collection and enjoy a hilarious ride-with-the-king.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

New MRS VINYL Review: What Elvis playlist do you listen to on August 16th ever year? Mine is always some recent new VINYL.
There is something so tactile and visual about VINYL that not only does it feel more "genuine" but it also reminds me of when Elvis was alive and everything we listened to was on vinyl.
This year 2021 - while in CV19 lockdown - my most recently acquired vinyl were the three recent MRS VINYL releases and what fine and innovative albums they are.
- 'Las Vegas International Presents Elvis – August 1969' - Single album.
- 'Las Vegas International Presents Elvis – January Thru February 1970' - Double album.
- 'Elvis Summer Festival 1970 - The Rehearsals' - Triple album.
Featuring three concerts of Elvis at the height of his Las Vegas return-to-splendour power, plus a triple album of Elvis' TTWII rehearsals, all packaged as stunning vinyl releases - these were certainly a neat way of celebrating Elvis Week.

EIN's Piers Beagley spins the discs and checks them out.
(Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘Elvis - The First Engagements 1969-70’ In-Depth Review: MRS's new triple-CD set ‘Las Vegas International Presents Elvis - The First Engagements 1969-70’ was released last month. The CDs contain three captivating performances drawn from Elvis’ first two engagements at the Las Vegas International in August 1969 and January thru February 1970.
For the first time ever, these soundboard recordings (formerly in mono) have been remastered and remixed to true stereo with outstanding expertise using the most sophisticated technologies to achieve the best possible sound.
The accompanying 40-page booklet includes rare photographs and memorabilia taken during these engagements along with introductory notes.

EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new collection and discover just how good these concerts sound in stereo - a perfect concert package for any Elvis fan.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Summer Festival 1970: The Rehearsals' In-Depth Review: MRS's new triple-CD set 'Summer Festival 1970: The Rehearsals' was released last month.
The CDs contain rehearsal highlights from one of the most memorable periods in Elvis’ career - his captivating performances at The International Hotel Las Vegas in the summer of 1970. With remastered audio and accompanying 40-page booklet the package is aimed at the general public, plus Elvis collectors who could not afford last year's FTD fan club deluxe release.
Elvis’ glorious rehearsals on 24 July at RCA studios are the real key to this release. Twenty seven classic performances and with Elvis not only rehearsing the familiar songs we would all come to know from the MGM movie but also songs he would never perform on stage.

EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new collection and discover some neat surprises along the way.

(CD REviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Year: 2020

‘From Elvis in Nashville’ Box-set EIN In-Depth Review: A 4CD collection presenting the definitive chronicle of Elvis' 1970 marathon sessions with the "Nashville Cats".
Recorded live in RCA's Studio B over the course of an epic five day run in June 1970 now, for the first time, the sessions are presented in pristine audio, newly mixed by acclaimed engineer Matt Ross-Spang without the added overdubs appearing on earlier releases.
Elvis’ 1970 Nashville session was very different from the previous Memphis sessions or even Elvis’ later sessions. Nashville was a real mix of Elvis recording RCA supplied demos along with one-take spontaneous favourites Elvis threw into the mix.
As Elvis noted, "It don't take much to get these guys going, boy, I'll tell you…. Just give them a "well..." and they're gone. That's what I call 'Sittin' on ready".
EIN's Piers Beagley explores this new box-set to discover one of the best Elvis releases in years..
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

MRS 'Elvis:Back In Living Stereo' in-depth Review: The new MRS set contains 6CDs of essential 1960-1962 master recordings, plus rare alternate outtakes - including plenty of officially unreleased material - and all of the personal home recordings Elvis made during the 1960s.
The 100 page book, with text from Gordon Minto, includes rare unpublished documents and photographs, supported by a comprehensive text discussing each of Elvis’ RCA studio (non-film) recording sessions held during 1960-62.
Musically the packed cds - over seven hours - present a stunning look at Elvis recording in the early sixties before the shine wore off. The "Master" sessions nicely contrast with the looser "Outtakes" discs and with Elvis getting even more uninhibited on the Home Recordings. - Very unihibited with a certain Nancy Sharpe!

But with so much thrown into the mix, and some tracks in poor audio quality, have MRS packed "Too Much" into the one release.

Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson & Piers Beagley check out the positives and negatives in their in-depth review.

(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘Elvis Reborn: New Mono to Stereo’ CD In-Depth Review: The publicity notes, "Hear 30 classic Elvis songs like you've never heard them before... in STEREO! These are NOT "overdubs". All of the sounds you hear are the original musicians backing Elvis, but with a clarity that exposes for the first time sounds you never heard before!"
The MONO vs STEREO debate is a fascinating discussion, so we need to get some facts straight before we investigated the possibilities of this new Elvis "Stereo" release.
The earliest recordings of the sound era were recorded in MONO with the singer and orchestra carefully positioned around one microphone. But even in Sun Studios it was actually Sam Phillips who created Elvis' classic mono recordings.
Elvis and the Blue Moon Boys were not playing "mono" - nor were they recorded via one microphone. So listening in "Fake Stereo" can fans really learn anything new about how some of these life-changing songs that Elvis recorded in the studio were created?
Is it truly possible that these "DES Stereo" versions actually sound better than their original classic mono vinyl releases?
- NOW UPDATED with YOUR Comments

EIN's Piers Beagley takes a detailed look into this new compilation and the "MONO vs STEREO" debate.
(CD Reviews, Source;PB/ElvisInformationNetwork) - Click HERE and join the 'Mono vs Stereo' debate!

Year: 2019

'The Guitar Player Worth A Damn' - The King In Motion Vol. 4 (Venus Productions): Elvis' 1972 'On Tour' performances have been featured in multiple books as well as the official MGM movie / DVD. The latest Venus Productions multimedia set revisits this tour with a composite book, DVD and CD set.

The DVD promises a qualified revamp of "Elvis On Tour" compiled from hours of unreleased footage taken from the best sources available - while the CDs include the never-before-released Hampton Roads Afternoon Show from April 9, 1972 plus an unreleased alternate mix of Elvis' Greensboro April 14, 1972 concert.
The main feature is the 200 page hardcover book with loads of rare pictures of the On Tour performances.

EIN's Piers Beagley and Nigel Patterson recently explored this new release. What did they find? How does the book component compare to other Venus releases? What do the audio-visual elements offer?

Read Piers and Nigel's detailed review featuring plenty of example pages of 1972 Elvis 'On Tour' on-stage action.

(Review, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis: From Hollywood To Nashville' MRS Vinyl review: Released just in time for my birthday MRS has put out a limited edition vinyl compilation 'Elvis: From Hollywood To Nashville - The Essential 1957-58 Studio Masters'.
Featuring a delicious selection of Elvis' studio work from 1957 until he he got "drafted & shafted" in 1958, this album basically features all his studio recordings - except for the movie soundtracks and the ubiquitous Christmas album.

From 'All Shook Up' to 'I Got Stung' Elvis was riding a creative peak.

With a limited pressing of 1,000 copies, 400 in Clear Vinyl and 600 in Black vinyl this is a treat.

EIN grabbed a copy and played it loud - go here for our review.

(Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis - Made In Germany’ In-Depth Review: The new MRS 'Elvis - Made In Germany – The Complete Private Recordings’ 4CD set contains more than 3 hours of the private recordings Elvis made while off duty in Germany when he was serving as a soldier in the US army during the 1958 -1960 period and, includes rare tracks from a recently discovered tape comprising over an hour of unheard personal recordings.
The 152-page hardback book contains rare photographs and documents plus a comprehensive text provided by Gordon Minto, which discusses each of Elvis’ RCA studio (non-film) recording sessions held during 1957-58, before focusing on the private recordings he made in Germany.
The BONUS CD features the essential RCA studio masters from 1957-58.

With such an expansive book, along with hours of Elvis jamming with his friends in Germany, there is plenty to discuss as well as finding out what extra material this set contains over the official releases.

Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson & Piers Beagley provide an in-depth review of this new MRS release

(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

MRS ‘The Complete ‘50s Movie Masters' VINYL Review: The MRS label released ‘The Complete ‘50s Movie Masters & Alternate Recordings’ for Record Store Day 2019.
The double LP set features one side of vinyl dedicated to each one of Elvis' four fifties movies and includes additional gems such as the STEREO 'Love Me Tender' recordings, 'Treat Me Nice' and 'Jailhouse Rock' in STEREO as well as the delightful 'Crawfish' Movie Master Edit from King Creole.
This was a neat idea, one side for each movie with a couple of extra bonus tracks, nice audio mastering plus a stylish 24-page massive inside booklet.
We get ‘Love Me Tender’ on one side with 7 tracks, ‘Loving You’ on Side B, ‘Jailhouse Rock’ as a sensational Side C and to my surprise all of ‘King Creole’ fitting neatly into the final side and with a cool Bonus Track not on the original RCA vinyl.
With the 24-page album-size gatefold booklet it truly is a stunning presentation.
Released on 180grm Vinyl and with quality audio remastering.
EIN's Vinyl-lover Piers Beagley spins these new discs and checks out the sumptuous packaging
(VINYL Review, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

MRS ‘Made in Germany – Private Recordings’ VINYL Review: The MRS label released ‘Made in Germany: Private Recordings’ which features the best of the remastered private recordings Elvis made in Germany, for Record Store Day 2019.
The audio from Elvis' private recordings has been painstakingly cleaned, repaired, and restored, using the most sophisticated technology.
Elvis vinyl fans can now enjoy these truly historical recordings including the newly found 'Like A Baby', 'He Knows Just What I Need', 'His Hand in Mine', 'Are You Lonesome Tonight?' and 'Cool Water' for the very first time.
Limited Edition 180-gram 2LP set with a 24-page photo spread gatefold with stunning pictures and with several photos not featured in the recent MRS Book/CD combo.
Released on 180grm Vinyl and with quality audio remastering.

EIN's Vinyl-lover Piers Beagley spins these new discs of Elvis' German Private Recordings and checks out the sumptuous packaging...

(VINYL Review, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'The Best Of The '68 Comeback Special' CD Review: The original NBC TV Special featured Elvis playing with so much passion that it inspired a career renaissance
Released to cash-in on the recent “Elvis All-Star Tribute” one can only hope that the mass of Post Malone and Ed Sheeran fans will consider Elvis’ amazing musical legacy worth checking out.
Elvis never looked cooler than in the 68 Special and this surely has got to help.
The original ELVIS NBC soundtrack vinyl album was obviously the very first selected ‘Best Of’ while BMG’s marvellous 1998 “Memories” double-album was an expanded version. This new ‘Best Of’ has presumably been selected by Rob Santos and John Jackson.
Elvis was SO DAMN GOOD performing for the NBC TV special that any alternate edit has to be enjoyable so EIN thought it worth giving the new set a spin. With all of Elvis’ USA sales getting a positive bump after the new TV show we know that this new set is being played in a fair few homes.
EIN's Piers Beagley investigates, can another '68 ComeBack Special compilation really be worth buying all over again?
and Have Your Say! Does this really help Elvis' great legacy...
(CD Review, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Year: 2018

'The Complete ‘50s Movie Masters And Session Recordings' In-Depth Review: This MRS 'The Complete ‘50s Movie Masters And Session Recordings' 5CD/Book combo pays tribute to Elvis Presley’s complete music recordings made for his movies during the 1950s.
The 5CDs contain the complete works of the master and session studio recordings made for each of Elvis’ movies during the 1950s, and all tracks have been remastered.
The 200-page book focuses on each of the recording sessions held for the four motion pictures made between August 1956 and March 1958.
The comprehensive text is complemented by rare and previously unseen photographs and documentation.

So what surprises will collectors discover in this new set, what is in this new collection that FTD have missed and how good will the audio sound.

Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson & Piers Beagley provide an in-depth review of this new MRS release

(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'ELVIS ON TOUR - 45th Anniversary Deluxe Edition' IN-Depth Review: Amiga International's long awaited LIMITED-EDITION boxset featuring 9-CD’s, all remastered, of all known recordings made for the Golden Globe Award-winning concert documentary ELVIS ON TOUR is OUT NOW. It includes the premiere of the complete rehearsal recorded in Buffalo, NY on April 5, 1972, with three previously unreleased performances.
The 13-inch boxset also includes a huge 128-page hardcover book containing detailed essays of the entire April 1972 tour with RARE AND UNPUBLISHED photographs and related memorabilia.

When considering the lack of attention paid to this concert documentary, it seems a shame that so few official releases have emerged. It is for this reason that AMIGA International presents this deluxe package to honor the excellent recordings made for the much neglected "Elvis On Tour" film.

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley supplies a 5,000 word indepth review - includes stunning photos and discovers that this AMIGA 'On Tour' box-set is the BEST deluxe Elvis release since the 2012 FTD 'Boy From Tupelo' (CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Year: 2017

'ELVIS Christmas' with the RPO' - Shane Brown Review: The new Christmas album supposedly brings together the legend’s yuletide performances from both his 1957 and 1971 Christmas Albums, re-imagined with new arrangements performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
Shane Brown, author of the new book 'Reconsider Baby' and Elvis music expert, has written a fascinating and thought-provoking review. He raises the issue that fans should be genuinely concerned what these "Re-Imagined" versions are doing to Elvis great musical legacy.
The REAL ISSUE could be that the desperation to earn a quick "Christmas" buck may lead to Elvis' musical legacy being diluted by overdubbed tacky M-O-R versions that have nothing to do with Elvis' original recordings.
He suggests, "All good things must come to an end. Thankfully, all bad things must come to an end, too – and the new Christmas release should prove to be the end of the road of the RPO albums with Elvis."
Read Shane Brown's incisive review and send us YOUR feedback.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

UPDATED - 'ELVIS Christmas with the RPO' CD Review: The new Christmas album supposedly brings together the legend’s yuletide performances from his 1957 Christmas Album and Elvis Sings the Wonderful World of Christmas from 1971, re-imagined with new arrangements performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
It's the third album of orchestral re-workings of tracks performed by Elvis, following 2016's The Wonder Of You and 2015's If I Can Dream both reached Number 1 on the Official UK Albums Chart.
But can producers Nick Patrick, Don Reedman and Priscilla Presley really keeping milking the money-making Elvis cow or will they turn out an overdone Christmas turkey?
Do the "new" Producers even care about Elvis' fabulous musical legacy?
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley and Brittany Edwards go into the Listening Booth to cause "Double-trouble" and try and discover what's good and bad...
NOW UPDATED WITH YOUR FEEDBACK - do you think this was a good idea- do you agree with our review?- .CLICK HERE.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'A Boy From Tupelo' 2017 In-depth Review: Back in early 2012 Ernst Jorgensen published his definitive look at Elvis during his sensational and creative Sun Records period as a FTD deluxe book/CD package. It had been a project he had been working on for more than a decade.
Now in 2017, RCA/SONY has republished 'A Boy From Tupelo' in a cut-down format and at a price anyone can afford.
This is the story of Elvis Presley before he becomes world-famous, and how this amazing young man readies himself for stardom, achieving success on a level that no one could have dreamed possible.
It features all of Elvis' Sun recordings on 3 CDs plus Elvis LIVE, on the radio, and in concert in the best possible sound. The new release also includes a previously officially unreleased "I Forgot to Remember to Forget" from a 1955 Louisiana Hayride performance.
Our in-depth 3,000 word review provides a detailed look, with 14 example pages plus additional photos from the book.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this new slimline version released for the 'General Public'..
For fans who have asked, we also compare the 2012 'A Boy From Tupelo' Deluxe FTD to the new "Mainstream" release.
(Book/CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘ELVIS: Studio Sessions 1956' In-Depth Review: MRS newest release, a massive 3CD/172 page book compilation "Elvis Studio Sessions ‘56 The Complete Recordings". The 172-page book, with text by Gordon Minto, focuses on each of Elvis’ studio recording sessions during his first year of national stardom - from the first one in January, held in Nashville, then later in New York, before finishing his final session of the year in Hollywood in September. The full and comprehensive text is complemented by rare and previously unseen photographs and pieces of documentation.
The 3CDs contain the complete archival master and session studio recordings of Elvis Presley from 1956, along with bonus interviews. All 90 tracks have been remastered and restored. Also for the first time on CD is the complete ‘The Truth About Me’ from an original US 45rpm flexi-disc. Also included are all the out-takes from this interview.

Once again MRS release a first putting all of Elvis' key 1956 Studio Session masters onto one disc, with the addition of two other fully-packed cds of 1956 material and a stunning 172 page book. But what does this set offer over other previous releases
Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new volume from MRS to find what is on offer. Includes stunning example photos & a detailed audio investigation.
(Book Review: Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis Sun 78rpm Vinyl' - Review: So how did EIN spend the day of August 16, 2017? - well spinning some of Elvis' most important singles ever released - the SUN 78rpms.
This is the first time since Elvis Sun replicas produced in the 1970’s, that have been made to play the original 78RPM speed. Since then some were only made at 45rpm.
The publicity promised that each of the five Sun replica 78s have the original etched numbers included with the appropriate song sides and are by far the most authentic original 10 inch Sun 78 Records yet produced. All the labels are printed as the originals in size, accuracy and color.

How good do they sound, how fine do the look?
Check out EIN's turntable as we commemorated the sad fortieth anniversary of Elvis' passing by spinning his first five singles as they should be played. - Go here for our review.

(Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘ELVIS: The Complete Works 1953 – 1955’ Review: MRS newest release, a 2CD/100page book compilation ‘MRS: The Complete Works 1953 – 1955’. The 100-page book chronicles Elvis’ short recording career there, from its humble beginnings (his personal acetate recordings from 1953) through to the final Sun sessions in 1955. The full and comprehensive text is complemented by rare photographs and unseen pieces of documentation.

The 2CDs contain the complete archival studio recordings from 1953-1955, Elvis’ personal acetates, the Sun masters, along with rare session outtakes. The tracks have been painstakingly remastered and restored. The set includes for the first time ‘That’s All Right’ taken from the ‘Mother’ master of the original Sun 45rpm.

But how does it differ from previous volumes about the same topic and is the audio any better?
Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new volume from MRS to find what is on offer.

(Book Review: Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Year: 2016

'The Wonder Of You' Elvis with the RPO - In-depth CD Review: It is forty years since Elvis Presley entered a recording studio and he seems very reluctant to record anything new. So in terms of releasing a "new" album of Elvis material the topic has always been a tricky one. After the massive 2015 success of "Elvis with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra" and ‘If I Can Dream’ the follow-up was inevitable and 'The Wonder Of You' recently achieved Number One in the UK album charts.
But can a follow-up really be as impressive - and do the true Elvis fans have to approve of these on-going fake "Revisions"?

Click here as EIN's Piers Beagley and Bryan Gruszka are back again to cause "Double-trouble" and supply a very detailed review, discovering what's good and bad...
And HAVE YOUR SAY - what do you think of the new album? Are we wrong in our opinions?
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'A Vegas Fling With The King' CD Review: Elvis' 1973 February Las Vegas season has a reputation for being a rather lackluster come-down after the truly stunning success of the Aloha shows just two weeks beforehand.
There is no doubt that Elvis should have had a welcome relax and a break after performing such a record breaking world-wide event. Instead, Col Parker shoved him straight back into the old-routine of playing to the all-too-familiar casino-crowd. Elvis had a right to be uninspired.
However recent releases such as Straight Arrow's audience-recorded double-pack of Elvis' concerts from February 12th 1973 capture him in better than expected form...
In fact Elvis was on great form this night riding high from his recent ALOHA concerts. The Dinner Show is very worthy with more bass apparent than the late show and the TCB band is HOT!
Go here as EIN contributor David Tinson checks out this new Straight Arrow release....
(CD Reviews, Source;DavidTinson/ElvisInfoNet)

'ELVIS On Television The Complete Sound Recordings' Review: The 60th anniversary of Elvis’ first appearance on national television is celebrated with this 2CD/100-page set.
The new MRS box-set was publicised as containing the complete archival recordings of Elvis Presley’s television appearances from 1956-60. For the first time ever, these tracks been painstakingly remastered and restored.
The recordings contain all song tracks, comedy sketch routines and interviews including the extended Wink Martindale interview.
The 100-page book is a chronological photo journey following Elvis from the very first in 1956, to his appearance on The Frank Sinatra show in 1960. It contains liner notes accompanied by many rare and new unpublished photographs.

In the individual chapters Gordon Minto provides the main details and highlights of each TV performance. Matching the text, each chapter features around 15 pages of significant photographs, a surprising number of the in colour.

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this new MRS CD/Book package with an in-depth review along with some scans from the book showcasing some excellent Elvis images.

(Book/CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

UPDATED - 'Way Down In The Jungle Room' EIN Review: Released for August 2016 this SONY Legacy pack celebrates the 40th anniversary of Elvis’ last recording sessions which took place in Graceland’s Jungle Room.
The publicity noted the sessions “have been newly mixed by Matt Ross-Spang at Sam Phillips Recording” and “includes both outtakes and in-the-studio dialog, providing a ‘fly-on-the-wall experience’ of what the sessions were like".
Elvis' original 76/77 albums were fairly uninspired collections (bar a few fine singles) and on the original LPs it was almost impossible to glimpse any sign of creative input from Elvis through the syrupy overdubs. It wasn't until the release of FTD’s magnificent ‘The Jungle Room Sessions’ that many fans began to understand the raw emotion, close camaraderie and Elvis’ personal feelings that were revealed by these intimate Graceland sessions.
To produce that same kind of revelation for the 'General Public' would be a very tricky project but that is exactly what the new legacy team has done - and to great effect.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley discovers the old Elvis magic and what is special for Elvis Collectors in our in-depth review
Now Updated & Expanded with Your Comments - James Burton talks about the Jungle Room sessions & more
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis Presley - The Album Collection' EIN Review: This 60th Anniversary 60-CD Deluxe Edition celebrates RCA Victor's signing of Elvis Presley. It features nearly all of the albums Elvis recorded and RCA released in his lifetime: studio, soundtrack, and live.
It includes a 300-page deluxe fully illustrated hard cover book with complete insightful commentary, discography and recording session data. Elvis Presley-The Album Collection represents a level of artistic achievement unparalleled to this day.

Elvis collectors have bought these Elvis albums time and time again - so can this new set really offer anything more..
Go here as Elvis author Shane Brown investigates the new deluxe box-set and and discovers the good, the bad and truly great value package ...
Now Updated- EIN Contributor David Tinson add his comments on the two classic albums NBC-TV Special and Memphis To Vegas, Vegas To Memphis

(CD Reviews; Source;ShaneBrown/ElvisInfoNet)

MRS ELVIS Record Store Day Releases - REVIEW: Ok, not actualy CD but good old VINYL! - The Memphis Recording Service will release Limited Edition pressings of Elvis’ entire live concert performance recordings from 1954 – 1961 on 3 exclusive double LP vinyl’s, each with a 24-page gatefold, for Record Store Day on April 16th 2016.

The titles are ‘Live In The 50’s - The Complete Tour Recordings’, ‘The Complete Louisiana Hayride Archives 1954 – 1956’ and ‘Such A Night In Pearl Harbor’ with all of the tracks remastered, they will be the best on vinyl for many years to come.

Each release comes as a LIMITED EDITION 180 gram 2LP set with bonus 24-page gatefold photo album featuring many rare and unreleased photographs.

Sometimes EIN gets lucky - Go HERE for our review of these FANTASTIC DOUBLE-VINYL - surely a must for any Elvis collector - Features plenty of example shots

(Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet).

'ELVIS LIVE in the 50's The Complete Concert Recordings' Review: The new MRS box-set 'Elvis Live in the 50’s The Complete Concert Recordings' was publicised as the ultimate tribute to Elvis Presley documenting his shows from the 1950’s. The 3 CD’s represent for the first time ever, the release of the complete collection of archival live concert recordings by Elvis Presley in the 1950’s. All of the 82 tracks included have been painstakingly remastered and restored.

The 172 page book is a chronological photo journey following Elvis from the very first to the very last shows performed in the 1950’s. It contains linear notes that includes every show listing (now updated) and is accompanied by hundreds of photographs many of which are rare and unpublished.
The book includes tour details (date, town, venue) and all photos are annotated. The customary range of press clippings is a powerful record of 1950s publicity ads, ticket stubs, receipts and show reviews.

Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley provide an in-depth review of this new MRS release along with some scans from the book showcasing Elvis in action.

(Book/CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

Year: 2015

UPDATED 'If I Can Dream' Elvis with the RPO - In-depth CD Review: It is forty years since Elvis Presley entered a recording studio and he seems very reluctant to record anything new. So in terms of releasing a "new" album of Elvis material the topic has always been a tricky one. Now in 2015 as the publicity notes "Elvis Is Back - with a Brand New Album" for the cleverly re-imagined "Elvis with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra" in the highly marketed ‘If I Can Dream’. In the UK and Australia it has made Number One in the album charts, an incredible achievement.
There is no doubt that the marketing has been very impressive - but do Elvis fans have to love everything about it?
EIN checks the facts and three Elvis fans of varying familiarity all provide their own opinions.

Both EIN's Piers Beagley and Bryan Gruszka take a very detailed listen to this new chart-topping release to discover what's good and bad... Go here for our 5,000 word review - Do you agree? Send us your Comments.
(CD Review, Source, Elvis Information Network)

'Elvis: Today' in-depth Legacy Review: On March 10th 1975 Elvis returned to RCA Studio C, LA to record his last significant album. Recorded over three nights, the album featured Elvis covering other songwriter's material. Interestingly with no other recordings left in the RCA vault every single track from the session was released on the one album - and what a fine album it was.
Kicking off with the rocking power of T-R-O-U-B-L-E the album also included some country, gospel, sentimental ballads while also featuring some of Elvis’ personal favourites. Unlike all of his albums since ‘Elvis Country’ this album had a nice overall cohesiveness that probably did reflect Elvis’ musical interests of the time. In 1975 it really was “Elvis Today”.
Now out as a 40th Anniversary legacy release and combined with a wonderfully enjoyable June 1975 concert can it really be worth buying again?
Luckily for Elvis collectors both the live concert and the 'Original Session Mixes' show a vast improvement in audio quality.

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley takes a good look at the new 40th Anniversary Legacy release, discovers the newly remastered audio delights and the pure joy of re-visiting the first officially released Elvis soundboard.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet) September 2015.

UPDATED - 'Hard Knocks' Bootleg CD Review: How many times have keen collectors bought a new and exciting bootleg release to discover 3 months later that FTD will be releasing the same material?
After all, for the past decade everyone has been scraping the bottom of the Elvis barrel trying to beat each other to the almighty dollar.
Keen fans appear to be willing to buy almost anything “Previously Unreleased” on bootlegs only to find that the same material will then be released by FTD - and we buy it all over again!
So here is a new bootleg featuring only 5 new complete outtakes from Elvis' low mid-sixties period - and the majority of the material from the ghastly 'Easy Come, Easy Go'.
Can it really be worth buying?

EIN's Piers Beagley checks it out - and discovers some surprising delights along the way. - Now UPDATED with YOUR comments.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Year: 2014

‘Final Countdown To Midnight' jewel-case Versions Review: The new BackDraft separate CD and DVD sets of ‘Final Countdown To Midnight’ - Elvis’ fabulous New Year’s Eve concert are out now. But Beware of Fakes! Several EIN readers have been sold dodgy CDR or DVDR copies by unscrupulous dealers being passed off as these new releases. We have been told that they are all only CDRs or DVDRs and none came with the booklets as promised. Two collectors complained of the DVDR skipping – So Buyers Beware!.
Go HERE as EIN checks out these new Backdraft releases.
Yes they both come with different booklets and they are factory-pressed DVDs and CDs.

In limited supplies, ask your honest Elvis dealer!

(News, Source;/ElvisInfoNet)

'Final Countdown To Midnight' NYE 1976 - in-depth Review: The deluxe 2CD/DVD set released by Backdraft label is the ultimate look at Elvis' 1976 New Year's Eve performance. Previously available via CDs with peak-audio distortion and on DVD/VHS with low quality fan-footage, now Backdraft have published a 106-page book plus remastered high-quality audio and incredible DVD featuring multi-camera angles. It has to be one of the essential Elvis releases of the year.

There is no doubt that Elvis’ final New Year’s Eve concert was certainly his last "Great" performance of his life. The nearly COMPLETE concert video which premieres to the world here will attest to the above statement. This DVD debuts newly discovered films, some of which have been transferred in High Definition and are positively stunning! The rich, vibrant colours provide a truly novel viewing experience.

The 106 page book boasts many rare and unpublished photos, detailed information about the show and an eyewitness text! The double CD set is also complete (unlike the edited FTD 2003 official release).

Go here - EIN's Piers Beagley provides an in-depth review of this amazing deluxe box-set.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Year: 2013

'Houston We Have A Problem' - CD review: From the Audionics label, a previously unreleased soundboard recording of Elvis' controversial matinee concert at the Summit in Houston on August 28, 1976.
The review by Bob Claypool has often been cited in Elvis literature, and the general consensus appears to be that this concert was a real disaster. Possibly detrimental to Elvis' glorious legacy, this 'import' CD is one of the most controversial releases of the year. Elvis was certainly on bad form on this afternoon, but was he really that terrible? SONY/FTD could never consider releasing this concert, yet it has to have a certain fascination to Elvis collectors.
36 years after his death, does Elvis' legacy still need to be air-brushed to keep its glory intact, or can we accept him for all his human faults?
Go here as EIN contributor Geoffrey McDonnell takes an in-depth look at Elvis' situation in summer 1976 and explains all.. and now UPDATED with Your Comments..
(CD Reviews, Source:ElvisInfoNetwork)

‘Elvis At Stax’ [Deluxe] Reviews: Released today, it is great to see yet more good reviews and general media publicity for this new 40th Anniversary Deluxe Set.
General Jabbo of Blog Critics posted an honest review of this new release, including..
... The year 1973 was a good one for Elvis but being the world of Elvis Presley, it wasn’t without its complications, however. Presley’s relentless touring schedule had left him exhausted. He was separated from Priscilla during this time and then RCA forced Elvis into the studio.
Presley knew of Stax and its success, and its proximity to Graceland couldn’t be beat, so he scheduled sessions for July and December of that year. A plethora of material was recorded.
The sessions proved fruitful, providing material for three albums: Raised On Rock, Good Times, and Promised Land. This collection presents two complete albums and nearly a third, plus a multitude of outtakes. While many of these outtakes have been previously released on various box sets, Elvis At Stax cherrypicks many of the best of these tracks and presents them in one place.

While some of this material may not be as strong overall as earlier triumphs such as From Elvis In Memphis or Elvis Country, listeners who dismiss it outright are missing out on many fine performances. Elvis At Stax does a good job of presenting Presley’s Stax sessions in a manner that makes sense — something Presley fans have wished for years — while offering a fresh view of this material.
Go HERE to EIN's overview of the STAX media reviews and Cool Photos of the new box-set.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Aloha From Hawaii' 40th Anniversary release CD Review: There is no doubt that most people reading this review will know Elvis’ phenomenal Aloha From Hawaii' concert inside out. Every fan will know the TV broadcast, most fans will have bought the album several times, a fair number will have also bought the "Alternate Aloha" rehearsal and a few will have seen the original broadcast on TV back in 1973.
We all know this classic record-breaking concert so well. Dressed in his stunning "American-Eagle" jumpsuit, tanned, slim and Adonis-like, Elvis was truly at the peak of his later career.
But with no "new" material to be offered on this Legacy 40th Anniversary re-release do the audio re-masters and packaging with 24 page booklet create a release worth of such a magnificent event.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley takes a good look at this all-important 40th Anniversary release and discovers the Good and the Bad..
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Year: 2012

'Prince From Another Planet’ In-Depth Review: Of all the live concert recordings released by RCA during Elvis Presley’s lifetime, none carried the historic significance of his long-awaited New York City shows at Madison Square Garden and now the two RCA recorded concerts and newly found fan-filmed video footage been released in one deluxe package for the 40th Anniversary Edition.

"PRINCE? MAKE THAT KING!" - Go here as Arjan Deelen reviews the new Sony ‘Prince From Another Planet’ package.

It’s been a while since a new Elvis release generated as much publicity as ‘Prince From Another Planet’ - But is it as good as our high expectations?

(CDReviews, Source;ArjanDeelen/ElvisInfoNetwork)

‘Greatest Live Hits of the 50s’ MRS CD Review: This 24 track CD is the most varied compilation of Elvis LIVE in the 1950's to date, containing only the best live performances, making the ultimate live set list of the 1950’s. It features the 8 new recently discovered live fifties rarities plus the CD also contains the unreleased live version of ‘I Forgot to Remember to Forget’ from October 1955.
It’s been a longtime since those first cheap "Hayride" compilations arrived in our record shops and EIN can still remember the excitement of not only hearing the first Elvis Hayride recording but also discovering their first non-RCA Hayride release. Things have come a long way in 25 years and now we are really spoilt.
Any "Best Of" Elvis LIVE must crackle with the power and stunning performances of Elvis and the Blue Moon Boys.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this new MRS/JAT release.
(CD Reviews, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

'A Boy From Tupelo' special In-depth Review: For more than a decade Ernst Jorgensen has been working on his deluxe book/CD package to present the definitive look at Elvis during his sensational and creative Sun Records period.
Over eight years later after first being discussed with fans it is finally released as a massive 530 pages, around 1,000 photos and weighing nearly 5 kilograms, this is the biggest project of its kind.
It also features all of Elvis’ Sun recordings on 3 CDs - including a CD of Elvis LIVE, on the radio, and in concert.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this fabulous production while David Tinson checks out Elvis' sensational early LIVE recordings.

Newly updated with more images and excerpts -the review features plenty of book extracts and rare photos.

(Book/CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'I Am An Elvis Fan' vs 'Elvis By Request': Does the Elvis World really need more 'Greatest Hits' compilations? Released in the USA and Australia these two fan-voted compilations were released to celebrate the 35th Anniversary in 2012. Both were obviously going to be yet another Elvis ‘Greatest Hits’ collection so the marketing and drive to get sales were via on-line fan voting. Both also offered the marketing ploy of an Elvis poster with your name on it. But are they worth buying?
Click here as these 2 compilations come under scrutiny from EIN's Piers Beagley
(CD Reviews: Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

'Blue Hawaii - The Expanded Alternate Album' Review: Can there really be any officially unreleased Blue Hawaii material still worth adding to your collection? This new MRS look at Blue Hawaii features an expanded edition of the original soundtrack album as a book/CD combo.
It contains many previously unreleased out-takes and alternate versions of the soundtrack recording, including several new versions of the classic ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’.
As a bonus, the CD is accompanied by a 40 page book containing many rare and unpublished photographs taken on and off the set of ‘Blue Hawaii’.

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley takes his car for a beach-side cruise and checks out what this budget MRS release really offers to Elvis collectors.

(CD Reviews, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

Storm & Grace (CD Review): After 7 long years, Lisa Marie Presley's 3rd album is due to hit record and online stores in a few days time. Storm & Grace is a departure from her earlier albums as Lisa Marie visits her musical "roots".

About her new album Lisa Marie has stated:

"There were a few years there where everything around me had fallen apart. All the things that had become my foundation were gone and I had to shed a lot of skin. I found myself really vulnerable afterward and that's what birthed the album’s vibe. It’s me without any attitude or anger at a time of rediscovery."

So has it been worth the wait?

Nigel Patterson put on his headphones and cranked up the volume on his hi-fi to find out what all the fuss is about. (Added: 13 May 2012)

Read Nigel's detailed review (and access music video links) of an album which will surprise many fans!

'Such A Night In Pearl Harbor' MRS Book/CD Review: This new MRS release documents Elvis' benefit concert recorded at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. Elvis' obvious enjoyment is apparent as he is once again on stage, performing just his 3rd show since 1957. With Elvis unleashed and like a livewire he delivers an extraordinary musical experience, hailed as one of the most thrilling and exciting Elvis shows ever!

Also included for the first time ever, is the 30 minute promotional radio broadcast from before Elvis' arrival. The CD is accompanied by a 100 page book that contains many rare photographs with extensive and informative liner notes detailing Elvis' arrival and performance

Every Elvis fan needs to know about this great moment in Elvis' legacy. If you don’t previously own this recording then this surely has to be an essential purchase.

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley finds several reasons to spin this great concert one more time.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Year: 2011

'The Complete Louisiana Hayride Archives 1954-1956’ Review: MRS promised a CD featuring 29 tracks all of which had been re-mastered using the most sophisticated non commercial technology. It includes restored and more complete versions of many of the Louisiana Hayride songs than ever before.
The set also includes a 100-page hard back book with informative text and many rare and new photographs of Elvis at the Hayride. Also the first hayride show from 1954 is in much improved audio than before and the last show from 1956 is now more complete and better than previously released. And all at a great low-price.

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley provides an in-depth review of this new MRS release including some great Elvis Hayride photos.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

'Young Man with the Big Beat' In-Depth Review: Released to coincide with the 55th anniversary celebration of Elvis' national break-through year, 'Young Man with the Big Beat' is a 5-disc box set in a retro format containing all of the 1956 RCA Masters including the complete albums 'Elvis Presley' (#1254) and the second 'Elvis' (#1382). It also includes a previously-unreleased live show, outtakes and rare interviews with the Elvis along with an 84-page book with a day-by-day chronology plus assorted photos and memorabilia.
Back in March 1956 an RCA promotional poster billed Elvis Presley as a "Young Man with the Big Beat". There is no doubt that the billboard’s designers would have had no idea what an impact that BIG BEAT would have on future generations, shaking the very ground of the until now easy-listening entertainment world.
Can this new box-set really capture everything that Elvis achieved in this great Rock'n'Roll year

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley looks closely at this deluxe release with plenty of quality photos & new images.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

"ReBooked At The International'- in-depth Review: The deluxe 4CD set released by the new Backdraft label is supposedly the ultimate January / February 1970 engagement package. While RCA have given us ‘On Stage’ in various forms and FTD also released the December 15th Midnight Show on ‘Polk Salad Annie’ and rehearsals, no one has given us the complete package including 13 unreleased RCA tracks, along with a very stylish 100-page book to go with it.
It includes multi-track recordings by RCA, including unreleased leftovers that did not make the ‘On Stage’ album. Plus the original rough mixes made by Felton Jarvis in early 1970 in preparation for the up-coming ‘On Stage’ album with No repairs, No overdubs!
This boxset also includes newly sourced soundboard recordings of the Opening and Closing shows of Elvis' stunning early 1970 Las Vegas engagement - and with greatly improved audio quality.

Go here - EIN's Piers Beagley provides an in-depth review of this amazing deluxe box-set.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis Is Back!' Legacy Edition review: ‘Elvis Is Back!’ the album that Elvis Presley recorded in Nashville in March and April 1960 is widely regarded as one of the best and most important albums he ever made. A half-century later, "Elvis Is Back" is now coupled with 1961’s "Something For Everybody," an album he recorded back in Nashville one year later. Along with one dozen hit single sides also recorded in Nashville’s famous Studio B and which charted over roughly the same period of time.
The deluxe 'Elvis Is Back!' Legacy Edition" combining these two great albums was released on March 8, 2011.
Following on from the impressive Legacy versions of 'On Stage' and 'From Elvis In Memphis' is this re-release really worth purchasing all over again?
EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this new RCA Legacy release.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

MRS 'G.I Blues - Café Europa Sessions' Review: A 4-CD set plus 100-page book MRS containing nearly 4 hours of Elvis’ officially UNRELEASED studio takes from the ‘Café Europa’ sessions, recorded for the movie ultimately titled G.I.Blues.
The audio contained here include the Master recordings from the original soundtrack album ‘G.I.Blues’ plus, hours of alternate takes of all songs, with all the Elvis studio banter intact and, instilling new insight and live atmosphere into the complete making of this historic movie soundtrack.
These recordings are transferred and processed in 24bit 192k stereo.

Click here for our review including images plus audio assessment - EIN's Piers Beagley has sent in his mini-review from some polynesian island!
(Book/CD Review; Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

'Bringing It All Back Home' CD/Book Review: From Venus productions last year, a double CD/Book set of Elvis performing in Memphis. The first CD contains the matinée performance of March 16, 1974, his first live appearance in his hometown since 1961. The second CD features the only performance by Elvis at the Mid-South Coliseum on June 10th 1975. Both concerts are still NOT officially released and Venus have created a high-quality production with a delightful 132 page book full of great photographs and text. The notes say that the source used was the "first generation soundboard tapes" and it sure sounds like it! Both concerts are in great quality and deserve to be released by FTD!

As we head into 2011 EIN looks back to check out a few favourite releases from last year.
Go here for lots of images from this neat publication as EIN's Piers Beagley gives this a thumbs up!

(CD Reviews; Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

'Good To Be Back' CD Review: Elvis was back in top form vocally in late ’75 after a three month relax - and the December 13th, Midnight Show stands out as one of the finest from this engagement. This show was the first soundboard to be released on bootleg back in ’91, causing quite a sensation at the time. 20 years on, Gravel Road Music have re-released the album using renowned ProTools technology to improve the sound quality to the best.
Presented in a stunning digi-pack with numerous photos from the actual show, memorabilia related to this engagement, intelligently written liner-notes packed in a 28 pages booklet. The release also features a special limited 'Concert Tour ’75 Photo Folio' with some totally new color photos in high quality from the '75 Tours.

Go here as EIN contributor Armond Joseph reviews this great release.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

Year: 2010

'The Complete Elvis Presley Masters' in-depth Review: "The Complete Elvis Presley Masters" 30 CD box-set collection has to be the ultimate deluxe Elvis collectors’ set, combining a massive 240-page book and every Elvis Master recording presented in one huge presentation case. The fact is that it also Sold Out before being despatched and so hardly needs a review. Plus it is damn expensive and well out of the range of most fans! Costing US$750 in the USA - plus for anyone overseas a hefty delivery charge. However it is good to hear that the popularity of the signed & numbered first run of 1000 copies has inspired SONY to produce a second edition early next year.
Such a gigantic deluxe set is difficult to comprehend until you have spent some time absorbing all its details. It is almost impossible to cover such a mammoth project properly in a small review. After all what do you get for your hard-earned money, and since we have probably bought most of these recordings umpteen times before, is this set that desirable?
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley provides a detailed in-depth review - with plenty of fabulous images - and discovers the good, and possibly bad, of this all-mighty Elvis release.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfo Network)

'VIVA ELVIS' CD Review: EIN contributor Brian Quinn was one of the very first to hear the new Elvis album 'VIVA ELVIS'. He totally agrees with the EPE/Sony publicity, describing the CD as PHENOMENAL and with an AMAZING sound. Truly a listening and emotional experience and genuinely revolutionary in concept - which should give it an excellent chance for a Grammy Award next year.
This is truly Elvis for the 21st Century.

- Read the his full review here and discover the hidden content of each track.

(CD Reviews, Source;BrianQuinn/ElvisInfoNetwork)

UPDATED with YOUR Comments- 'VIVA ELVIS'- The King Butchered! CD review: After a slew of positive reviews presented on our site, EIN contributor Arjan Deelen provides another viewpoint about the new 'VIVA ELVIS' album.
He suggests that Producer Erich van Tourneau has very little affinity with Elvis’ music. And the way Tourneau has tackled this project is disrespectful towards Elvis and his original musical vision. These new versions display a lack of empathy an understanding by Van Tourneau of what Elvis and his music were all about.
Why can’t we let the guy rest in peace? Hasn’t he already achieved enough in his lifetime and even in the decades after his death

Now updated with your comments
Go here for Arjan Deelen's in-depth and thought-provoking review of 'Viva Elvis' - and have YOUR SAY.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

'The Final Curtain' Deluxe Box-Set Review: The Final Curtain comprises of a 400 page jam packed book with 6 CD’S and 6 DVD’s with hours of unreleased footage and new complete soundboards all housed in a large and heavy beautiful box set. The book is packed with more than a thousand pictures plus reviews, full text featuring all the tours and rare facts etc to create a 1977 book finally worthy of release.

The 6 CD collection includes 3 new shows featuring the lost recorded performance of Orlando on February 15th, Saginaw’s May 3rd and Madison’s June 24th. Also included on the CD’s are highlighted show recordings from 1977 and has a new version of Elvis’ last show in Indianapolis, all of the audio materials contained in the box are taken from 1st generation copies of original Soundboard/RCA tapes.

EIN's Piers Beagley spent a few days indulging in this mammoth box-set and writing this in-depth review - After all the wait does it match up to the hype?

(Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

Three new 'VIVA ELVIS' CDs Review: Reviews from around the world are in general positive about this new release including....
... Is the world really in need of a new Elvis Presley album 33 years after the death of the King of Rock N’ Roll? After only one listen to Viva Elvis: The Album, that answer is a resounding YES.
Viva Elvis is an honest reworking of Elvis’ greatest hits using original master samples of the King’s voice worked into modern riffs and beats. There’s no attempt to make the tracks into dance remixes like A Little Less Conversation; they come across with dignity, respect and care – and that’s what makes Viva Elvis unique and magical."

- Go here to three new VIVA ELVIS album reviews and discover more about each track.

(CD Reviews, Source;SanjaM/EIN)

CD Review:

Elvis Presley Electro Cover Compilation ~meets KORG DS-10~

(Gerule, Japan, 2010, BRGA-0032, Running Time: 43’ 02”)

Are you tired of listening to the same old Elvis recordings released for the umpteenth time or being sucked in by some lame remix version?

If yes, then this latest album release may just be the revitalising tonic you are looking for!

Elvis Presley Electro Cover Compilation is a contemporary electro mix of house, dance floor and ‘nue vogue’ pop sensibility with neat twists of retro lounge and swing which will challenge even the most progressive, musically aware fan.

Read EIN's track by track review

Filthy Elvis IV! Hubba Hubba Bubba! (CD Review): Reviewing a Filthy Elvis album is always a precarious task! With its powerful rock sound balanced by porn film language and themes, the mix is not for the faint hearted!

The latest instalment in the Filthy Elvis series maintains the high musical and politically incorrect standards set by the earlier albums.

Filthy Elvis IV Hubba Hubba Bubba! is an album which will either have you in stitches or reaching for the phone to register a complaint with the Decency Standards Board.

If you're feeling a little sore and tender with suspicious loins and your gal is a ballbreaker, then this may just be the album you have been waiting for!

But beware, if you thought Crying in the Chapel was sacred, you are in for a very rude awakening!

Read EIN's detailed review

'On Stage' 40th Anniversary release in-depth review: Back in 1970 Elvis' ‘On Stage’ live album was unique in that it featured a totally different message with an Elvis in concert album featuring no Elvis oldies and hits! It cleverly demonstrated that Elvis really was musically & professionally growing, recording an album that showcased original material from new songwriters and which no longer had to depend on his own greatest-hits.
Elvis showed that he could find great country-funk-rock songs, like the stunning ‘Polk Salad Annie’ and ‘Proud Mary’, while at the same time put his very soul on-line with an amazing ‘Release Me’ and ‘Let It Be Me.’
With this fabulous 40th Anniversary Legacy release SONY also includes Elvis' stunning 1969 'In Person' album giving us two definitive Vegas concert performances from 1969 and 1970 as well as a 24-page booklet.
EIN's Piers Beagley has a close look at this special 40th Anniversary release to find out some sensational audio delights.
Check out this in-depth 4000 word review and images. Now includes alternate on-line reviews plus reader's feedback.
(Spotlight, Source;EIN)

'Off Duty with Private Presley' Book/CD Review: 'Off Duty with Private Presley' is released by the Memphis Recording Service to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s discharge from the army in 1960. The 100-page book includes many rare and stunning photographs, many of which are unreleased and seen here for the first time. The accompanying CD contains recordings made during Elvis’ time off duty whilst in the army, including classics such as 'A Big Hunk O’ Love' and 'A Fool Such As I'. It also features 30 Unreleased tracks privately recorded by Elvis while stationed in the US and Germany. These recordings are released officially for the first time to the public.

EIN's Piers Beagley checks out the recently released MRS package to see whether it is worthy of the publicity and what it contains.

(CD/Book Review, Source;EIN)

50 Australian Top Ten Hits 1956-1977 (CD Review) - A Case of What Could Have Been!: Sony Music Australia recently released an Aussie Top Ten hits compile.

EIN finds that should have been a special release turns out to be flawed in several important ways and not surprisingly the album is slipping quickly down the charts! (Feb 2010)

Read EIN's detailed review

Year: 2009

Elvis 75 Good Rockin' Tonight (CD Review): Is this set really as good as the critics say??

In a searching 4,000 word review, EIN's Nigel Patterson gives you the detailed lowdown on Sony's 4CD box set release commemorating what would have been Elvis' 75th birthday.

From the 100 tracks and Vic Anesini's remastering, to Billy Altman's essay and a number of illuminating sidebars, you will discover all you need to know about Elvis 75 Good Rockin' Tonight.

EIN's review also incorporates the full track listing and the 13 key tracks identified by music journalist, Robert Hilburn, that best illustrate Elvis's artistic progression.

Read EIN's review of Elvis 75 Good Rockin' Tonight (Dec 2009)

'Tupelo Welcomes Elvis Presley Home' CD/Book Review: A special Collectors Edition CD/Book from MRS which features Elvis' two historic Tupelo concerts from 26th September 1956. It includes scene-setting interviews plus a 40-page hardback glossy book packed with rare photographs and new information on the recording of the concerts by radio engineer Ron Brandon.

If you have never heard these historic recordings before, they are a great insight into the excitement of Elvis performing live in 1956 and in front of a large crowd.

Available from Amazon for less than $15, EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this recent release. (CD Reviews, Source; EIN)

Music Review: Elvis Presley - Elvis 75: Good Rockin' Tonight: Elvis Presley would have turned 75 on January 8, 2010. In celebration of that event the RCA label, through their Legacy Series, has issued a four-CD, 100-track box set.

Elvis 75: Good Rockin’ Tonight may not contain any huge surprises nor has it unearthed any new material that had been hidden away, but what it does do it does well. It gathers all of his number one hits, some other well known material, live performances, and a few cuts that do not surface very often, assembling them in chronological order to present a nice history of his music. Everything has been digitally remastered which has given it a crystal-clear sound. In addition there is an 80-page booklet which includes a 7,000-word essay by Billy Altman, rare photos, and copious information on every track.

In the mid-fifties Elvis combined country rockabilly with black southern rhythm & blues, which coalesced into rock ‘n’ roll. When you add in his personal charisma you have an artist who emerged as a cultural phenomenon and changed the course of American music. From 1955-1977 he would record over 700 tracks and solidify his reputation as The King of Rock ‘N’ Roll.

Disc one covers his rise to fame; 1953-1957. The set begins with his 1953 recording of “My Happiness” which was a present for his mother and well worth its $4.00 investment. His mid-fifties Sun material quickly follows as songs such as “That’s All Right,” “Baby Let’s Play House,” “Blue Moon Of Kentucky,” and “Mystery Train” would jump start his career in the south and pave his way to being signed by the RCA label. By 1957 “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “All Shook Up,” “Hound Dog,” “(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear,” “Too Much,” “I Want You, I Need You, I Love You,” and “Don’t” had all topped the singles charts in the United States and made him a star.

Disc two is the strongest from beginning to end as it culls the best of his 1958-1962 material. Tracks such as “Stuck On You,” “It’s Now Or Never,” “Are You Lonesome Tonight,” “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” and “Return To Sender” are interspersed with some lesser known material including “Thrill Of Your Love,” “Doin’ The Best I Can,” “I Feel So Bad,” and “Pocketful Of Rainbows.”

Disc three, 1963-1969, wisely avoids most of his soundtrack material and concentrates on the series of strong singles that he issued during this period of his career. “Guitar Man,” “U.S. Male,” “Don’t Cry Daddy,” and “Kentucky Rain” may not have reached the top of the charts but they remain some of the best songs in his catalogue. “Viva Las Vegas,” “How Great Thou Art” and perennial favorites “In The Ghetto” and “Suspicious Minds” serve to enhance this disc.

The fourth disc, 1970-1977, is the weakest as it presents material from the last part of his career, which is hit or miss. The live material just does not measure up and while “Way Down,” “Burning Love,” and “Promised Land” may be listenable, overall this is the disc I will return too least often.

Elvis 75: Good Rockin’ Tonight may not be for everyone but it is a fine addition to the Elvis Presley legacy. If you have avoided his box sets in the past or are a fan who must have everything then this is a must purchase.

(CD Review, Source: David Bowling, blogcritic.com)

EIN Note:

Elvis '75: Good Rockin' Tonight is now out in the US.

Progressive release in most other countries by January 2010.

Dayton Reloaded - Stunning Release!!: Saturday morning and the doorbell rings. To my surprise it is the latest International/DAE collaboration, Dayton Reloaded (released on the Boxcar label).

Quite simply this is a stunning release with excellent book and audio elements!!

What marks Dayton Reloaded as being particularly memorable is its potent audio-visual and narrative record of an artist, while struggling with his life and career, still being able to connect with and lift in response to his (especially receptive) audience of 13,500 screaming fans.

Read EIN's full review

(CD/Book Review, Source: EIN)

New 'Elvis 75' compilation mostly hits, some surprises: There are quite enough Elvis Presley compilations around, thank you, that this new, four-disc set of all previously released material seems unnecessary at best, a cynical move aimed at the Christmas market at worst.

Either way it's inevitable with what would have been Presley's 75th birthday coming up on Jan. 8. Even if "Elvis 75: Good Rockin' Tonight" is essentially a cash-in, it's still smartly assembled, packed with hits but also sparing room for a surprise or two.

Unfortunately, it also spares room for the 2002 Junkie XL remix of "A Little Less Conversation," space that could have been better used for, well, silence, for one thing.

For a catalog such as Presley's, four CDs is essentially a greatest-hits with bonus tracks affair. In the '90s, RCA released three five-disc boxes, one per decade of Presley's career, with very little that could be considered filler across all the boxes.

Nitpicking aside, Disc One is impossible to argue with, as the Sun label singles segue into the RCA recordings from 1956, the foundation of – or at least a huge part of – all rock 'n' roll recorded since.

Discs Two and Three cover the movie years, cherry-picking the sublime but including enough of the ridiculous to show how Presley's (or manager Tom Parker's) focus shifted to his movie career (since rock 'n' roll was a fad destined to be forgotten).

Disc Three also includes Presley's magnificent version of the hymn "How Great Thou Art," which follows "Adam and Evil," proving someone had fun with the sequencing.

By the end of Disc Three, Presley is finding his footing again, thanks to some raw versions of Jimmy Reed's "Big Boss Man" and a pair of Jerry Reed tunes, "U.S. Male" and "Guitar Man."

Then comes Presley's final glory, the 1969 Memphis sessions that produced "Suspicious Minds" and the "Elvis in Memphis" album. Disc Four contains the highlights of his decline. Though they came fewer and further between, they still packed a punch. Check his 1973 version of Chuck Berry's "Promised Land" for proof Presley still had it in the years before his death.

Any Presley fan will find a track or two missing (where's "Trying to Get to You"?). "Elvis 75" isn't the end-all be-all of Presley compilations but novices too curious to be sated by 2002's single-disc "1s" may find it to be a valuable road map.

(CD Review, Souirce: Curtis Ross, The Tampa Tribune)

The Memphis Lullaby (Whitehaven) - CD Review: Linda Ann McConnell’s The Memphis Lullaby originated as a poignant book which was followed by an equally poignant film and in January 2007, a single.

Coinciding with the 32^nd anniversary of Elvis’ passing, Linda Ann has complemented these with a passionate 14 track album. Using the band name Whitehaven, Linda Ann has drawn on her emotional connection to Elvis and his music to write, sing and produce one of the finest tribute albums you will ever hear. Like Elvis, Linda Ann has an amazing vocal flexibility and the ability to explore and inhabit different genres during her musical odyssey. Linda Ann’s crystal clear singing is equally engaging and impressive....

Read EIN's full review of this stunning debut album! (Dec 2009)

‘The Return Of A Prodigy’ CD Review: On July 31st 1969 Elvis returned to live concert performances for the first time in 8 years. For the whole sixties decade his energy and enthusiasm had been sapped by a string of low budget movies and old-fashioned management. RCA recorded a series of multi-track concerts, the first of these however was already Elvis’ forty-first performance of the familiar ’69 concert set-list. On Opening Night itself we know that Elvis was excessively nervous and not relaxed enough with his audience to indulge in any on-stage banter. While a soundboard of this opening concert would be an astounding discovery - the reality of hearing Elvis perform at his SIXTH ever Hilton concert is only one-step away and demonstrates just how astounding Elvis was within the first few days of this all-important season.
Read our in-depth review of this great the August 3rd Dinner Show here.
(CD Reviews, Source:EIN)

CD Review - From Elvis In Memphis (40th Anniversary Legacy Edition): From Elvis In Memphis represents Elvis's highest point recording a studio album.

Re-issued as The Memphis Record (1987) and subsequently Suspicious Minds: The Memphis 1969 Anthology (1999), in 2009 Sony BMG's Legacy series has issued a masterful 40th anniversary 2CD edition, with stunning remastering work by the legendary Vic Anesini.

EIN presents its massive 7,000 word strong analysis of Elvis' landmark album.

With many great visuals from the sessions and informative sidebars, we delve deep into the music, go behind the scenes in the recording studio and discover the many aural delights of this 2009 masterpiece! (16 Sep 2009)

Read EIN's review

Elvis Presley’s 1969 Music Is “Ghetto” Fabulous: At 34 years old, Elvis Presley was riding a wave of renewed interest when he returned to Memphis for several recording sessions in early 1969. Just weeks earlier, his landmark ‘68 Comeback Special found him in superb voice and boisterous spirits. Suddenly, millions of curious TV viewers wondered what was coming next. Forty years later, who could forget? “In the Ghetto,” “Kentucky Rain” and “Suspicious Minds” — all recorded in Memphis — became his first million-selling singles in nearly eight years.

From Elvis in Memphis: The Legacy Edition, a two-disc set released on July 28, compiles all of the recordings from those invigorating sessions at American Studios. More importantly, it captures a moment in time when Presley took his creative direction from producer Chips Moman, who refused to back down to Col. Tom Parker or anyone else in Presley’s entourage.

GO HERE for other media reviews of this classic album release

Black Angels in Vegas (Book & CD review): The new book + 2CD release from Venus Productions recently caught our eye and ear.

What we found was a first rate release which will delight all fans.

With rare photos, an excellent narrative account of Elvis in 1974 and great sound resonating from the audio component, there is much to be enjoyed and wondered about with this release. Elvis's use of the "F" word during the show has sparked debate and while some other shows in his 1974 Summer season were ordinary, at midnight on 30 August the King was in particularly fine form.

Click here to read our detailed review

(Review, Source: EIN, 18 Aug 2009)

CD Review: I Got Lucky

Released last year on the RCA Camden label, this 10 track album is the CD edition of the original Camden album.

With Sony BMG's sound maestro, Vic Anesini, in charge of the mastering, does the album stand the test of time?

Read EIN's 'capsule' review to find out (17 Aug 2009)

'April Fool's Dinner' import CD Review: Originally issued as the classic vinyl bootleg 'Rockin' with Elvis April Fool's Day', this new Audionics/Southern Comfort release 'April Fool's Dinner' is somewhat of a nostalgic ride for hard-core Elvis collectors. With upgraded audio - at last taken straight from the original Master Tape - the show itself is a classic of Elvis having fun, singing well and enjoying being back on stage. While the concert is taken from an audience tape there are plenty of highlights as well as some fine bonus tracks from the Midnight Closing Show. A packed CD plus an exceptionally glossy well-designed cover. Go here for the full review.

(CD Reviews, Source;EIN)

'I Believe: The Gospel Masters’ BMG box-set review: "I Believe – The Gospel Masters" is a BMG 4CD repackage of (nearly) all of Elvis’ Gospel and Inspirational Master recordings. While true Elvis fans will have bought most of these all-important recordings several times before, BMG promises the best-quality remastered Studio Sessions, along with an interesting final CD of other inspirational material. EIN's Piers Beagley spends a week soaking in Elvis' glorious spirit as he sings for salvation and escape. He discovers a few surprises on the way and considers whether BMG has delivered a value-for money quality box-set for 2009.

Go here for the in-depth review

(CD Reviews, Source; EIN)

Year: 2008

'Elvis Presley - Christmas Duets' review; Blog critic David Bowling has posted an on-line review giving the new Christmas duets album a positive write up - "It presents some classic Elvis in a new and creative way". Not surprisingly he rates the two blues numbers as the most enjoyable tracks, while Australia's own Olivia Newton-John who joins Elvis on 'O Come All Ye Faithful'doesn't come off so well.
'Santa Claus Is Back In Town' is probably the strongest track on the album. This is a blues rendition that fits Wynonna Judd well. She trades vocal runs with Elvis and more than holds her own. This is the track that I played over and over again. Go here for the full review. (CD Reviews, Source;BlogCritics)

'The Complete '68 Comeback Special' CD Review: For the 40th Anniversary BMG/SONY release a 4CD "Complete '68 Comeback Special" to the general public. Hard-core Elvis fans have been overly dismissive, pointing out that we have all bought the same product previously. But is this true? Here we not only get the ORIGINAL Album version (The 'Memories' set was a very different compilation) but also something refreshing about the way this new set has been compiled. The second CD itself cleverly leads us from Elvis jamming with the boys on his very first release 'That's All Right' through a fabulous revitalisation of his classic songs all the way to the stunning 'If I Can Dream' which would be his newest single. EIN's Piers Beagley spends a while with Elvis in his gorgeous leather suit. Click here for the in-depth review. (CD Reviews, Source;EIN)

'Back With A Bang! CD Review; This Midnight concert from Friday March 22nd has always been a fan favourite and is one of Elvis’ best Vegas concerts from 1975. Originally released by Fort Baxter on their ‘A Profile Vol.2’ box-set it was the best concert in the series. Now 12 years later it is upgraded and re-released by the Audionics/Fort Baxter team. 1975 was the last time that Elvis made any major changes to his repertoire and the new additions created a fascinating concert, as well as keeping it fresh for Elvis and the band. Elvis’ mood and health had improved, perhaps due to the new presence of girlfriend Sheila Ryan - Elvis was indeed "Back With A Bang!" Go here for detailed review. (CD reviews, Source;EIN)

Elvis vs Spankox (CD Review): In Europe it has attracted widespread interest and acclaim. The first single from the album has been a major hit in several countries.

So just how good is Elvis vs Spankox Re:versions, the first official Elvis remix album?

EIN recently put on the headphones and sampled the album's heady mix of original Elvis sound and electronic beats. Click here to read our full review (Source: EIN, Aug 2008)

Please Don't Stop Loving Me: EIN doesn’t often review albums by ETAs and Elvis stylists, but we make an exception when something special comes along.

And the latest album release from one of South East Asia’s most well known and respected Elvis stylists. HT Long, is something special.

Click here to read EIN's full review of what is a great "easy listening" album

"Loving You" testament to Elvis' artistry: So what does a young, charismatic, and good looking singer, who is the most successful musical artist in the country do for an encore? He heads to Hollywood to star in a movie of course.

Loving You was a pieced together affair which included songs from the movie, previously released tracks from an EP, plus a couple more from the studio. It all added up to a very good album but ultimately not of the quality of his first two ground breaking LPs. Nevertheless, released in July of 1957, Loving You would remain the number one album in the country for ten weeks. Even my mother had a copy of this album.

The cover does Elvis justice. Even at seven years old, I am quite sure I sensed that I was not that good looking. My wife would probably agree today. All right eliminate the word probably.

Elvis would make a seemingly unending string of mostly forgettable movies. They would contain some excellent songs and a lot of what can best be described as filler. Elvis would never have a song nominated for an academy award, even though there were certainly songs from many of his films that should have been so honored.

The album starts out on a strong note. “Mean Woman Blues” is an all out rocker in the classic Presley tradition. “(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear” is the first of what would become an Elvis performance that would be halfway between rock and pop. It featured a catchy melody with a great smooth vocal and would hit number one on the singles charts. “Loving You” was an effective ballad, both in the movie and on its own. “Got A Lot Of Living To Do” was another driving up-tempo song.

Elvis does as well as he can with “Lonesome Cowboy” and “Hot Dog.” The songs are weak and would be forerunners of his future film material. Elvis’ manager, Colonel Tom Parker, hired writers to churn out material for Elvis’ movies. He would retain some of the rights and make millions.

The second half of the album finds Elvis experimenting with material from different styles of music. “Blueberry Hill” is a cover of the great Fats Domino song and while Elvis give a good performance, I miss Fats. “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” had been recorded by The Sons Of The Pioneers and Bing Crosby among others. Here Elvis takes this old warhorse in a country direction and gives a wonderful performance. “I Need You So” by Ivory Joe Hunter and Cole Porter’s “True Love” are average performances for Elvis.

Loving You will be forever associated with Elvis’ movie material. Taken on its own, however, it does have some excellent moments and is still worth a listen now and then. ( Source: David Bowling, BC Review, June 2008)

'HIGH VOLTAGE' - Birmingham 1976, CD review: There can be no doubt that Elvis' 29th December concert in Birmingham, Alabama in 1976 was one of his best concerts in a long while, on a par with his legendary New Year's Eve concert of 2 days later. The original bootleg ‘Burning In Birmingham’ was always a favourite among collectors but contained a lot of background audio hiss and the sound was pretty flat - especially compared to Elvis’ dynamic performance on the night. This new release however is not only in stereo but is now presented with a stylish 16-page booklet full of classic photographs from the concert itself. In this detailed review EIN's Piers Beagley visits an old friend.....

(CD Reviews, Source; EIN)

She Is the King - 'Comeback' CD review: Let's get it straight from the start, "Elvis male impersonators - Who needs them?!" But here is something entirely different - and quite an exciting counterpoint too, a female Elvis ETA releasing a CD of classic Elvis songs. 'She Is The King' - Jacqueline Feilich - is the only woman ever to be selected by EPE to compete in the worldwide Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition and she has already achieved quite an impressive international following. Visually and musically she is imbued with a number of iconic Elvis qualities but can she carry it through to an album of Elvis covers? Well her fans won't be disappointed as EIN's Piers Beagley discovers. Go here for full review. (CD Reviews, Source: EIN, February 2008)

Year: 2007

'ELVIS Viva Las Vegas': BMG CD review: While BMG’s 'The King' was the key focus of this year's BMG Elvis marketing blitz, the real highlight for true fans of The King had to be this fantastic double CD. From the concert opening, "Well, It's One for the money, Two for the show" through to the smart finale of "Well, I gotta go.." Elvis sings his heart out to a fine set-list, displaying a real enthusiasm for his oldies as well as showing off his new material. As a double package featuring a brand new 1969 concert with Elvis at his most energetic, along with a superb selection of greatest live hits in pristine audio quality - Who could ask for more 30 years down the track? EIN's Piers Beagley cranks it up, rocks with The King and discovers exactly why every Elvis fan must buy this CD. (Source: EIN, November 2007)

'The Essential Elvis Presley‘ vs ‘The King’: Two very similar double CD Elvis ‘Greatest Hits’ compiles were released by BMG in the first half of 2007. Continuous release of these same old compiles is exactly why The Beatles & Garth Brooks garner so many recognised "RIAA Gold Sales" and dominate Elvis in the gold sales statistics - when of course Elvis in absolute total must have sold more. EIN wonders if everyone in BMG/SONY marketing is related to Colonel Parker as they still continue to flog the same old horse. If ever there was a prima-facie case of BMG/RCA pumping out too much of the similar Elvis product, then the releasing of ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ (40 Greatest tracks) within a few months of their 30th Anniversary "key" marketing release ‘The King’ (52 Greatest hits) must be exhibit number One. EIN's Piers Beagley investigates.

'The Essential Elvis Presley': CD review: Released by BMG/SONY at the start of 2007 in order to add Elvis to Sony's "Essential" artist series. With the overall packaging, sleeve notes, good photos and the "a little different" track selection 'The Essential Elvis Presley' can be rated as a fine companion to their series. The audio sparkles and the CDs present a good, if brief, look at Elvis’ musical legacy. However as always there is more to consider and wonder about when it comes to marketing Elvis' greatest hits. (Source: EIN, November 2007)

'The King': CD review: Released by BMG/SONY as their 30th Anniversary Elvis "key" marketing release , one would have hoped that some thought and inspiration could have been used by their Project Directors. But why bother? - Of course, due to the timing and marketing ‘The King’ became an international number One – and so why should fans complain? As always there is more to consider and wonder about when it comes to marketing Elvis' greatest hits - and you get the feeling that BMG/SONY will be laughing all the way to the bank with this one. EIN's Piers Beagley investigates. (Source: EIN, November 2007)

VIVA LAS VEGAS, CD #2 (Sony/BMG 2007): Crister Berge from Sweden offers EIN readers his take on the "live" album which forms one disc of the Viva Las Vegas release:

In one word Cris says: Sensational!

.........................Read the full review....................

'It's Now Or Never' Robert Gordon/Chris Spedding CD review: Robert Gordon doing Elvis Presley sounds like a natural. People have been asking for it since Robert's Private Stock days, but Robert was always afraid of being tagged another "impersonator". Over the years, he has sporadically done Elvis covers, and they served as tantalising glimpses of what we could expect from a Robert Gordon "Elvis" album. EIN contributor Arjan Deelen spins the CD to see if Robert Gordon can really cut it on this new tribute to Elvis.

(Source:EIN/Arjan Deelen)

MRS release another winner!: The MRS organisation has done it again. Its Elvis Presley New York RCA Studio 1 The Complete Sessions DVD/CD/book (digipack) package is chock full of sublime audio, visual and narrative treats.

"And if they'd only known what was about to happen, most of the big brass RCA would likely have keeled over from heart attacks." (from the 'Elvis Presley New York RCA Studio 1' book)

Buy "New York RCA Studio 1: The Complete Sessions" from HMV UK - out now!!

The CD offers remastered and restored by Real Bouwman from high quality 24 bit/94k resolution!!! The album features 11 Master tracks, Elvis interviewed by Don Davis, and 24 intriguing session takes. The music is glorious, at times resonating with the searing power and energy of rock 'n' roll's King and at other times beautifully tender.

The recordings range from Blue Suede Shoes and Anyway You Want Me to Tutti Frutti, Don't Be Cruel and So Glad You're Mine. Also in the mix is Hound Dog, My Baby Left Me, One Sided Love Affair and I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Cry Over You; and when supplemented by 12 takes each of Lawdy Miss Clawdy and Shake Rattle and Roll listening is an absolute aural delight.

The CD also includes three bonus tracks: My Baby Left Me and So Glad You're Mine performed by Arthur "Big Boy" Crudup; and Hound Dog from Freddie Bell and the Bell Boys.

The DVD-Audio in 5.1 Dolby Digital features the same tracks (bar the three bonus tracks) as the CD, remastered in high quality 24 bit 96 kHz sound accompanied by rare photographs. For those who have experienced the earlier DVD-Audio releases from MRS you know the very high quality on offer. For those who haven't experienced DVD-Audio this is your opportunity to listen to Elvis as you've never listened to him before!!!

The 68 page book features strong design and high quality paper stock. There are many rare photographs from the famous Alfred Wertheimer Elvis Archives as well as some from the Joseph A. Tunzi Archives; archival session material; and a blow by blow account of Elvis' recording process in the studio.

The visuals are a stunning mix of b&w and color including a knock-out color shot - watch the female fans swoon (page 13) and a hauntingly expressive double page b&w image (pages 56-7).

EIN will publish a full review of Elvis Presley New York RCA Studio 1 The Complete Sessions shortly. (Source: EIN, 13 Nov 2007)

Cyrus out-Elvises Elvis: Elvis Presley was a lot of things. He was a rags-to-riches success story. He borrowed blues and gospel licks from the black performers he admired and introduced them to a mainstream audience. He wasn't a mere American Idol, but the king himself. But he didn't really know how to tell a woman to "Love Me Tender," singing the song with a syrupy sincerity that's rarely the best way to a lover's heart.

Cyrus Chestnut, on the other hand, knows how to conjure up a spirit of genuine romance. Just listen to the jaunty jazz pianist's reinvention of "Love Me Tender" on his new CD, Cyrus Plays Elvis. It's a great example of how a gifted musician can take a sappy song and set it free.

The much-heard melody, lifted from an old Civil War ballad, rings out with newfound oomph, sounding insistent yet dreamy. Chestnut reinvigorates the song with lush chords, playful grace notes, worshipful tremolos and effortless runs up and down the 88s. Sometimes, the melody disappears altogether before returning, as if by magic. Chestnut works over the keyboard to win over the unnamed object of his desire, and it's hard to imagine anyone not giving in. (CD Review, Source: NPR Music, Nov 2007)

'The American Way Vol.5 - Goin' Home To Memphis': CD SNEAK PREVIEW : Last week EIN received a test pressing of 'The American Way Vol.5: Goin' Home To Memphis' the final instalment in this great series from the Southern Comfort label. Elvis' 1969 ‘American Studio’ sessions are featured in the first half of the CD and include some fabulous and unknown "Rough Mixes". We also get to hear Elvis Live in 1970, while the amazingly rare outakes of the 1968 'Goin Home' sessions fill the CD up to the brim. To be honest my house has been rockin' with the funk all week - and I have also been laughin' my *** off. Does an Elvis reviewer's life get any more fun than this! Although this is not the absolute final product, please enjoy our special Sneak Preview. Make sure you don't miss out. (Source: EIN, September 2007)

"Edge Of Reality/If I Can Dream" (CD Review): EIN recently put on the headphones to listen to the latest single by one of Australia's best known Elvis tribute artists, She Is The King.

What we found was a formidable follow up to her critically acclaimed debut single, Viva Las Vegas. (Source: EIN, Sep 2007)

Read EIN's full review of "Edge Of Reality/If I Can Dream"

Terry Mike Jeffrey featuring Charlie Hodge and Duke Bardwell

"An Elvis Tribute Show" (CD Review):

On October 19, 2003, renowned Elvis stylist, Terry Mike Jeffrey, took to the stage in Kunstmin, Dordrecht, The Netherlands to deliver a powerhouse show to an appreciative audience at the "Elvis 2nd To None" Convention organised by the Dutch fan club, It's Elvis Time.

Accompanying Jeffrey were one time bass player for Elvis, Duke Bardwell, and Elvis' "scarves and water man", Charlie Hodge.

"An Elvis Tribute Album" is a strong show which delicately moves between foot stomping rockers and poignant ballads to soul stirring gospel standards. Read full review (Source: EIN, 1 Sep 2007)

New dance remix will appeal to long time fans: Leading Australian ETA, Mick Gerace, launches his new remix single on August 16 ahead of its release by Sony BMG Australia. The recording is a "dance" remix of the sublime but little known Elvis track, (I Got A) Feeling In My Body. Backing Gerace is none other than the Sweet Inspirations.

As is needed to bring Elvis' music to a new generation, "(I Got A) Feeling In My Body" has very competently used current production techniques and styles to give a classic track a contemporary feel and vibe. Read full review and hear sample of the song (Source: EIN, 12 Aug 2007)

'The American Way Vol.4 - SOUND of the CITY': CD review: Released by Southern Comfort this CD continues their look at Elvis' astounding 1969 sessions at Chips Moman's American Studios in Memphis. ‘Sound Of The City’ features multiple takes of songs that all present a different emotion which the down-town streets of Memphis often generate. This is Elvis creatively revitalised, working at his peak and all beautifully presented with complete versions no fade-outs and some nice eavesdropping on the group at work. A revealing fly-on-the-wall documentary of Elvis as he rediscovers his musical roots. EIN's Piers Beagley digs deep and explains how a 10 seconds "whoompa" from Elvis’ musical legacy can make him shudder with their true magnificence. (Source: EIN, July 2007)

"Elvis At The Movies" capsule review: ElvisCDResearch has issued its review of the latest Sony BMG Elvis release. It says (12 July 2007):

The latest double album release from Sony BMG offers nothing new but pleases with its strong sound quality. With 40 tracks, it features a largely different song line up than on last year's 'Elvis Movies' album. The mastering by Vic Anesini is a real strength as both Elvis' vocal and backing are crystal clear. Pump up the volume and enjoy!

The inclusion of lesser released tracks like Lonely Man (Wild In The Country); I'm Yours (Tickle Me); Do The Clam (Girl Happy); This Is My Heaven (Paradise, Hawaiian Style) and The Love Machine (Easy Come, Easy Go) add variety to the release.

The double album is attractively packaged in digi pack format and complemented by a two sided fold out poster which includes a narrative essay on Elvis' celluloid career by Michael Hill.

ElvisCDResearch 5 Star ratings are:

for the Hardcore Fan:

for the Casual CD Buyer:

"Light & Easy With the Golden Voice of HT Long" (CD Review): The latest album from one of South-East Asia's premier Elvis tribute artists is a very strong and engaging release.

Its 14 tracks are expertly fashioned by an artist who really knows his craft. This is one of the best tribute artist releases we have heard in recent years. Read full review (Source: EIN, 30 June 2007)

"Elvis At The Movies" reviewed: We came across this review on Simon Barrett's blog spot.

I’ll cut to the chase here, if you are an Elvis fan here is the link, you need read no more, just click on it and buy it. For the rest of you, I will try to present a review. Elvis played in a huge number of movies in his career, I believe the total was 31! Elvis was larger than life, in life, and maybe is even larger posthumously. He died in 1977 yet the CD’s keep coming out.

This is a two CD collection of 40 of his most famous movie songs. Sony – BMG have done a great job of cleaning up the audio, the quality of the audio makes it sound as if it was recorded yesterday. I am sure the National Enquirer will pick up on this aspect, and will be publishing some stories about how this CD was actually recorded last summer, in some small town in Nebraska, using the very best modern equipment.

Love Me Tender from 1956 is the earliest, and 39 songs later we have Rubberneckin from 1969 which appeared in The Change Of Habit. Using my High School math, this means that Elvis pumped out 2 or more movies a year. Very few stars can make that claim. I can offer no review of his acting ability, I will leave that to more qualified people. I can offer my personal thoughts about his music. Without doubt he was the most prolific and successful performer for an entire generation.

Many performers have tried to ‘cross over’ into the world of movies, and most have failed. The Beatles, The Who, and even David Bowie, they all tried this track and maybe they did not exactly fail, but they certainly did not succeed. Elvis on the other hand, not only succeeded, but grew from the experience. His 1961 Blue Hawaii was not only a hit movie, but the title track (album) was Number 1 on the Billboard charts for 20 weeks! There are not many artists that can claim this sort of success.

During this period of singing and acting, Elvis managed to accumulate 14, Gold and Platinum awards for his soundtracks alone. Again using my basic High School math, and Baseball parlance, that is batting at pretty close to 500. You may not be an Elvis fan, but you certainly cannot ignore his influence on a three decade era. You can get this double CD from Amazon. (Source: Simon Barrett, 14 June 2007)

'The American Way Vol.3 - Movin And Groovin': CD review: Released by Southern Comfort this CD features five tracks from Elvis' astounding 1969 sessions at Chips Moman's American Studios in Memphis. This is Elvis creatively revitalised and working at his peak, and at last this series presents the complete sessions, chronologically and with nothing missing. With new studio rehearsals and chatter we get a fly-on-the-wall look at Elvis rediscovering his musical roots and playing with one of the coolest bands in town. But with a lot this material previously released is there really more to discover? EIN's Piers Beagley investigates.. (FTD Review, Source: EIN, April 2007)

Year: 2006

'The Complete Million Dollar Quartet' CD review: To celebrate the 50th Anniversary, RCA re-releases 'The Complete Million Dollar Quartet.'

Here at last we have the missing 12 minutes, along with the songs being in the correct order and with audio restoration by expert Kevan Budd. On December 4th 2006 EIN's Piers Beagley re-examined this holy day of rock 'n' roll. Is there really all that much to get excited about? - Damn right there is!

(CD Reviews; Source: EIN)

CD Review - "Memories of Elvis": Australia's "Voice of Elvis", El Gamble, is back with another sublime album of 20 well known and not so well known Elvis tracks.

It is this balance between the familiar and not so familiar which gives Memories of Elvis much of its power, a power nicely complemented by a pleasing mix of rock, ballad and spiritual recordings, and El Gamble's trademark Elvis vocal. (Source: EIN, March 2007)

'Chaos In College Park' - CD review: Elvis' reputed worst-ever concert - why should it even be released? Possibly detrimental to Elvis' glorious legacy, this 'import' CD is one of the most controversial releases of the year. Elvis was certainly on bad form on this 1974 Opening Night, but was he really that terrible? BMG/FTD could never consider releasing this concert, yet it has to have a certain fascination to Elvis collectors. EIN's Piers Beagley presents an in-depth examination of this chaotic concert of September 27th 1974 - as well as looking at Elvis' performance the following night. Nearly 30 years after his death, does Elvis' legacy still need to be air-brushed to keep its glory intact, or can we accept him for all his human faults? (Source: EIN, November 2006)

"Elvis r &b" (CD Review): EIN's Piers Beagley took time out from his overseas holiday to delve inside the aural delights of one of the latest Elvis releases from Sony BMG. Yet another compilation CD with upgraded sound, Piers found it has a surprising appeal.

Read Piers' detailed track-by-track review (CD Review, Source: EIN, October 2006)

'Elvis: Live' - CD review: Although aimed at the General Public, this could be a very fine compilation for all Elvis fans. Including the magnificent 'In Person' version of 'Suspicious Minds', as well as a hardly-played 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' this is a clever selection which also features upgraded audio. Can this mid-price genre CD really be that good? EIN's Piers Beagley explores. (CD Review, Source: EIN, Sept 2006)

'Almost In Love' Camden CD review: Another budget Elvis CD, short & sweet - but is it what we really want to see in the records shops? Are these new budget compiles once again diluting Elvis' back-catalogue? Is this lightweight fluff or fabulous nostalgia? Are there any hidden gems or has the wily old Colonel Parker made a comeback? EIN's Piers Beagley investigates. (CD Reviews, Source: EIN)

'Elvis: Has left the building' CD review: Every year, when August comes around, all true Elvis fans needs to reflect on what might have been - and what a great loss we feel. This CD, released by Rock Legends in 2003, perfectly captures the emotions of that surreal night in 1977, and is a very poignant & moving reminder of Elvis and his amazing effect worldwide. Here EIN plays it one more time. (Source: EIN, August 2003/2006)

"Echoes of the King" (CD Review): Is the latest El Gamble CD the best Elvis tribute album of 2006? EIN's Nigel Patterson explores the aural delights of a stunning studio recording. (Source: EIN)

'One Night Only!' - CD review: Madison releases an upgraded version of an old bootleg favourite, 'The Power Of Shazam'. Showcasing Elvis' once-off performance in Boston, November 10th 1971, the concert captures Elvis in great form and enjoying the larger crowds away from the Vegas/Tahoe casinos. Live recordings of Elvis in 1971 are few & far between. Here EIN's Piers Beagley explores the concert and investigates if a 35-year old cassette recording can really sound that impressive. (CD Review, Source: EIN, June 2006)

'Hail To The King' MOJO Magazine CD Review: The British music magazine MOJO, May 2006, is in Australian 'import' stores right now. Their free CD highlights include the well-known; Jerry Lee Lewis’ burning ‘Don’t Be Cruel’, & Johnny Cash's ‘I Forgot To Remember To Forget’. It's a wild & fascinating view of Elvis through other musician’s eyes. A fine tribute to rock's greatest revolutionary. (CD Review: Source: EIN, May 2006)

'Elvis Country' - CD review: 'Elvis Country' is part of Sony BMG's new "genre" series. Elvis was always at his best when the lyrics reflected his own moods and this interesting selection captures the sadness, loneliness & regret he felt through his final years. Skilfully avoiding the repeat of recently released songs, if you are in the right mood then this is the best in BMG's new series. EIN pours out a “Water glass full of whiskey” and soaks in these country vibes. (Source: EIN, April 2006)

"Elvis rock" (CD Review): 'Elvis rock' is part of Sony BMG's new "genre" series. Featuring 20 of The King's classic rock recordings and mastered by Vic Anesini at Sony Studios in New York, all the "genre" releases feature DSD audio technology for optimal sound quality. EIN delves into the aural delights of 'Elvis rock' and finds The King's vocal is nice and clear on all tracks. (Source: EIN)

'Pieces Of My Life' - CD review: Yet another import CD from an audience recording, but Elvis’ Closing Show from Asheville July 24, 1975 happens to be a stunner. EIN’s Piers Beagley checks out one of Elvis’ best-ever shows from his last 2 years, with him singing a very unusual set-list. Everything from ‘Return To Sender’ to ‘Wooden Heart’ to ‘Shake A Hand’ and of course ‘Pieces Of My Life’ gets selected. FTD needs to find the soundboard on this one.(CD Review, Source: EIN, March 2006)

El Gamble is back...with "In The King's Shadow The Rock 'n' Roll Years": Australia's legendary rock 'n' roller with the Elvis voice, El Gamble, is back with three new albums. EIN sat back and took in the aural delights of "The Rock 'n' Roll Years". (Source: EIN)

'Elvis~ A Legendary Performer Volume 7' - CD Review: Following The Colonel’s marketing example of ‘too much is never enough’, Madison released yet another volume in their ‘Legendary Performer’ series. With their high productions values can this really be as good as the first two in the series, or is that the sound of scrapping at the bottom of the barrel that we can hear! EIN’s Piers Beagley opens the lid and looks into the depths. (Source: EIN)

"Memphis Recording Service" - simply stunning book and audio release!: Joseph Pirzada's Memphis Recording Service delivers fans an exquisite and well balanced offering of visual, aural and narrative elements in a superbly designed fold-out package. EIN takes a detailed aural and visual trip inside one of 2005's finest Elvis releases. (Book/Audio CD Review, Source: EIN)

Year: 2005

All Shook Up - A Reggae Tribute to The King - CD Review: Forget those lame Elvis reggae bootleg-remixes that have recently been doing the E-Bay circuit, this is the real thing! All types of reggae "Elvis-style" are featured, from laid-back lovers-rock to 1960’s ska and even dub-reggae! Can this really be as good as hoped? EIN's Piers Beagley chills-out on a summer beach, with his boom-box turned up, to truly investigate. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

'Hitstory' - in depth CD Review: Three CDs featuring 91 of Elvis' greatest chart successes. BMG promised, "With hits from all three decades in which Presley recorded, 'The Story Continues' is an essential collection". So is it really 'value for money' or 'another BMG rip-off' for Elvis fans? EIN's Piers Beagley digs deep and discovers what the other reviewers have missed. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

USA edition of "Hitstory" rewrites gaffes from Elvis 30 #1s: "To clarify previous reviews...this is not "Nothing New." The first one disc comp 30 #1s presented alternate versions of A Big Hunk o' Love, A Fool Such As I, and The Wonder of You. On top of that all stereo songs were remixed. Suspicious Minds has been subjected to flanging. Now in gathering the two CDs (the above mentioned 30 #1s and 2nd to None) the correct versions are used and not remixed. Vic Anesini did a wonderful job on this! The third disc gathers 19 additional top twenty singles. The title Hitstory is earned on an 80 songs comp that delivers the hit singles!"

EIN Note: Brian O'Marra's review relates to the US edition of Hitstory not the EC/Australia edition. EIN also disputes the 'good job' done with CD3. (CD Review, Source: Brian O'Marra)

Elvis by the Presleys (CD Review): While this could be seen as 'just another compilation’, EIN's Piers Beagley finds some audio delights in the last part of the 'Elvis By The Presleys' marketing blitz. The 5 unreleased tracks, including a new take of Jailhouse Rock, along with nice packaging makes this release worth investigating. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

"Black & White Elvis" (CD Review): "Black & White Elvis," a double-CD collection released by Mood Music in their Mood Classics series, does not pretend to present original versions of the forty-eight tracks that make up the set. Instead, Alex Jay, the compiler, presents older versions of songs later recorded by Elvis and uses them to demonstrate the influences and impressions to which Elvis might have been exposed. Just about all of the numbers
were, indeed, later recorded by Elvis himself, but this is almost a very happy coincidence. (CD Review, Source: David Neale, July 2005)

All Shook Up - the Broadway album: "All Shook Up, the musical at the Palace, left me distinctly unstirred. The CD, from the new Sony BMG combine, is somewhat more interesting". (CD Review, Source: Steven Suskind, Playbill News)

The Tom Green Show: Only a handful of Elvis tribute artists can truly lay claim to having a voice that sounds remarkably like Elvis'...and Tom Green is one of them! Tom Green's albums with their strong "Elvis" vocals and excellent arrangements easily rank him as one of the world's pre-eminent Elvis vocalists. EIN reviews six of his albums. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

Elvis: A Legendary Performer Vol.5 – (Madison): With hard-core Elvis collectors complaining about too much already available material dominating this new import CD, EIN’s Piers Beagley was wary as he explored this new homage to old RCA producer Joan Deary. However what he discovered was a clever, stylish and cheeky box of Elvis delights! (CD Review, Source: EIN)

‘Young and Beautiful’ TV Guide single – an unreleased gem: The TV Guide mini-CD of an unreleased version of ‘Young and Beautiful’, from the movie Jailhouse Rock, is a true delight. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

"Now What" reviewed: EIN gives you a track-by-track analysis of Lisa Marie Presley's second album. A strong follow-up and aurally more accessible to To Whom It May Concern. (CD Review, Source: EIN, 15 April 2005)

"Now What" review: The Associated Press published this review of Lisa's second album on 5 April. (CD Review, Source: AP, 5 April 2005)

In the King's Shadow, Volume 1: There are literally hundreds of albums featuring Elvis tribute artists. While most are instantly forgettable, once in a while a singer comes along with a voice that is eerily reminiscent of The King. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

"Lust, Elvis" – The unreleased CD: RCA have regularly released their Elvis "love songs" compilations (see below) and while there is a positive reason to have these kind of CDs in local record shops, Elvis Presley wasn’t always about love and, in the fifties more importantly, he was far more about lust!
In the 1950s' Elvis was basically too damn sexy for mainstream TV, yet 82% of the US viewing audience couldn’t help but watch! The battle for media censorship struggled while Elvis, seemingly unintentionally, kicked down the door for everyone to follow. American youth would never be the same, & the rest of the world would follow.
Elvis was just a natural great-looking sex-god, oozing LUST and surely that deserves a CD worth of celebration.
So here is the newly SONY CD "Lust, Elvis (Play it dirty)" as suggested by EIN, play it at home to the partner you desire.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

"Love, Elvis" 2005 CD review: EIN's "Lust, Elvis" in case anyone has forgotten was inspired by BMG's 2005 release 'Love, Elvis'.
Obviously not aimed at the Elvis collector, but rather the general public and there is no doubt that we do need to see this kind of mainstream Elvis compile in our local music stores – and with its striking new cover design it looks just fine.
One of the earliest Elvis releases to use the re-mastering of Vic Anesini the audio quality was excellent and the 24 track selection of Elvis’ very best emotional love songs will hardly disappoint.

By why do these never feature a couple of “unknown” gems like 'Any Day Now', 'Power Of My Love', or 'True Love Travels On A Gravel Road'?

Go HERE for our original 2005 review.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

CD Review - Elvis The Cover-Up: This unusual release from Memory Records is a tantalising mix of high quality "audience" recordings and interviews from around August 1977 and the TV show 20/20 in 1979. An historic record recommended for anyone interested in what happened around that fateful day in August 1977. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

Bilko's Gold Cuts: EIN investigates the new “Best of” import CD, and discovers some interesting facts that others seem to have missed. While it does contain several gems, a surprising number of tracks have already been released on FTD. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

"Elvis Today" album revisited: Our recent posting about the July 2005 release of the updated classic album, "Elvis Today" caused a lot of interest. Ernst Jorgensen recently confirmed with EIN that CD2 will feature the Felton Jarvis produced, original Rick Ruggieri "RCA rough-mix". In this interesting article EIN’s Piers Beagley delves a little deeper into ‘Today’ to find out why it was Elvis’ final great LP and highlights some great new cover artwork from Spinout Designs. (Source: EIN)

Love, Elvis - independent review: And just in time for Valentine's Day! I'm not going to insist that Elvis's love songs are better than any of his others (blues rockin' greats like All Shook Up, Jailhouse Rock, Hound Dog etc.), which of course many of them are, but I will say that they are the best representation of the caricaturized cultural icon Elvis was to become: overromanced sexualizer and seducer as well as overripened cheesebag. S'all good. Love, Elvis compiles a number of the best, though by no means all, of Elvis's love songs and ballads, titles like Can't Help Falling in Love; Love Me Tender; I Want You, I Need You, I Love You and Surrender among them, though the album is weighted dangerously toward the front - by the time you get to some of the second-rate songs at album's end, the ardour's been lost. (CD Review, Source: Jamie O'Meara, hour.ca)

Billboard reviews "Love, Elvis": Simply put, nobody could sing a love song like Elvis. (CD Review, Source: Billboard/ElvisNews.com)

Dirty Laundry - Lisa Presley's new single reviewed: With a less dark (but just as potent) lyric than tracks on her first album (To Whom It May Concern), the first single from Lisa's second album, What Now, is a good choice for her strong, deep vocal. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

‘We have Not Rehearsed Them’: EIN's Piers Beagley reviews this collection of audience recordings released on the Catfish Records label. It features a variety of rare and great performances, unfortunately let down by the poor sound. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

The Continuing Story of Memory Records: EIN's Piers Beagley has a listen to what is essentially a "best of audience recordings" release from Czechoslovakia's Memory Records. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

Let Elvis cast the late night spell on you!: EIN's Piers Beagley turned off the lights and sampled Elvis The 50 Greatest Love Songs. Here's what he found. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

The Rocker: Robert Palmer has reviewed one of the original concept albums released around Elvis' music:

Elvis Presley, who was born almost 50 years ago, on Jan. 8, 1935, has long been recognized as one of America's most gifted, distinctive and influential popular singers. He applied his deft, fluid phrasing, derived from blues and gospel music, to songs from the rhythm-and-blues, country, pop and gospel idioms and developed an overtly sensual, largely black-derived performance style. He was the first American popular singer to intuitively understand and creatively exploit the then nascent medium of television, which made him a star almost overnight. In one stroke, he changed the sound, the look and the feel of our popular music.......

But Mr. Presley paid a price for breaking so many barriers and becoming so enormously popular. His manager, Col. Tom Parker, packaged him like toothpaste or soap........

But now, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Mr. Presley's birth, RCA is redeeming itself with a comprehensive program that includes the re-release of the early Presley singles and albums, pressed on the best vinyl without the fake stereo, and a bounty of previously unreleased performances from Mr. Presley's golden years, roughly 1954-1960. Read full review (Vinyl Review, Source: New York Times)

The Roots of Elvis: If you really want to know why Elvis grabbed black rhythm & blues music by the throat and made it his own, then you need to read Piers Beagley's review of an album showcasing seminal music by the artists who influenced The King. (Source: EIN)

When is a review not a review?: we found this review(?) of Elvis At Sun in an Australian regional entertainment magazine. You be the judge. (Elvis CD Review, Source: BMA)

Elvis Presley The Last 24 Hours: EIN takes a detailed look at this recently released DVD/CD. The stories told by members of the Memphis Mafia are candid and caring, if at times unsettling. The release is packed with many bonus features and professionally produced, and has a clear agenda. (DVD/CD Review, Source: EIN, 31 July 2004)

Elvis Ultimate Gospel: with nicely balanced sound and a carefully selected track listing, BMG's new Elvis release is "near perfect". Piers Beagley takes us "inside" the album.

200 Cadillacs: superb new release features pounding rockabilly and scorching lyrics.

Year: 2003

Christmas Peace: BMG's latest Elvis yuletide offering has improved sound and is a 'snowy wonderland' of audio listening pleasure.

Elvis 2nd To None: does the follow up to last year's smash hit album, 'Elvis 30 #1 Hits' live up to expectations? EIN delivers the answer

Live In Las Vegas Simply Sensational: BMG's new Elvis box-set, Live In Las Vegas is a lavish release showcasing Elvis at his peak in the neon capital of the world. With great sound and a detailed booklet this is another superb release that will please fans.

Rubberneckin': Billboard, the US music bible, reviews the new Elvis re-mix by Paul Oakenfold.

Reading of the Diary: unusual release is an hilarious send-up of Elvis and the Memphis Mafia.

Elvis 30#1 Hits: with its digitally enhanced audio and sublime clasic hits, this releae should be a mandatory Christmas buy. Piers Beagley dissects the album, track by track.

Elvis 30 #! Hits on 5.1 Audio DVD: "A dream come true" says EIN's Pier Beagley in this exhaustive look at the first ever Elvis album released using the new technology.

CD Reviews

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