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If I were to compile a list of my favorite 200 record albums of all-time, this album would certainly be included on that list--probably even somewhere in the top 100. I actually wanted to give the album a 4-and-a-half star rating (which would be comparable to a 9 out of 10), but there are no half-stars in this rating system--so I erred on the side of rounding upwards, and I gave it an EXCELLENT rating. However, it would make much more sense to me if they provided for such a distinction; think about it, you must essentially choose between GOOD, which is 4 stars--and which amounts to an "8 out of 10", or EXCELLENT--which is 5 stars and amounts to a "10 out of 10". Why can't I leave 4-and-a-half stars? ("9 out of 10")--or better yet, just use a 10-point rating system, and leave the stars to the movie critics. Certainly there are items that one wants to rate somewhere between GOOD and EXCELLENT, as in this case) Anyway, I've always liked Book Of Dreams ever since 1977, when I first bought the album on vinyl. The Steve Miller Band's rendition of SWINGTOWN is one of those tunes that no matter how many times it's re-done, no one else's version will ever be as good as the original. There are other very good tracks on the album, as well--I won't critique them all one by one, but suffice it to say that in it's entirety, the album is a pretty unique piece, and one of those LP's (or CD's) that is very listenable from start to finish--which to me, has always been the hallmark of a good album. Book Of Dreams is the genuine article--not a cover of someone else's music, and upon listening, its authenticity is apparent. Even its cover artwork is interesting (to those who can appreciate such things), making the entire package so much the better. This album is definitely a great example of a throwback to that wonderful era of 70's rock when vinyl record albums, and 8-track and cassette tapes ruled the day. With music that's never quite been duplicated before or since, Book of Dreams finds a way to stand alone. In closing, my recommendation is this: Pick up this album. You won't be disappointed. It's a must for your collection of old-school rock.Read full review
Album 12 for the Steve Miller Band, on CD. "Book Of Dreams" was a huge commercial success for Miller, although a lot of reviewers at the time critiqued him for "going pop" as the lyrics were not the biting social commentary heard in his earlier works (such as those in "Brave New World", album 3 and "Number 5", the self titled fifth album). As an aging boomer (born 1953) this CD brings back fond memories of the late 70's with the songs that got lots of airplay then; "Jet Airliner", "Swingtown" and of course, "Jungle Love". Also my favorites, "Winter Time", "Sacrifice", and "The Stake" grace this CD. This is just one of many CD's that I have recently purchased to fill in my collection that was represented in vinyl years ago. All in all, an excellent investment for the Steve Miller fan.
I had a little trouble finding this one.It is easy to find the greatest hits but this original is worth looking up for the songs that aren't on the other one.Alltime classics Jet Airliner, Jungle Love and Swingtown are complimented by lesser known greats that are not on the greatest hits such as Sacrifice(with guest Les Dudek) and My Own Space.It finishes up with one of the most expressive instrumentals of the 70's,Babes In The Wood.Definitely a good idea to get this one just for these songs alone, not to mention the hits!
Steve Miller is an excellent songwriter and guitarist with a excellent backup band and well worth listening to
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
A great choice of songs on this CD, from Jet Airliner to Swingtown to Jungle Love and The Stake. A nice follow-up to Fly Like An Eagle, Book Of Dreams continues Miller's hit making prowess! My reason for buying CDs is the songs that didn't make the Top 40 list, like True Fine Love and My Own Space in the case of Book Of Dreams.
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