A Day Without Rain
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (21 November, 2000)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $9.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

As each new Enya release has washed over all who have ears to hear, as each heaven-touched work leaves admirers sitting speechless in slack-jawed wonder, questions eventually come to mind: Might her layered, choral-like approach gradually become predictable or stale? Will she ever exhaust her deep reservoir of soul-stirring ideas? Remarkably, A Day Without Rain, Enya's fourth release since her 1988 breakthrough, Watermark, establishes new artistic heights for the gifted Irish vocalist and keyboardist. The project, polished and refined over a five-year period in the company of longtime collaborators Nicky Ryan (producer) and Roma Ryan (lyricist), may qualify as her best yet--a radiant, beatific collection of works that command attention with their cathedral-like resonance as they soothe your spirit with some of Enya's loveliest, most graceful voicings ever. The disc's opening three tracks (including the spellbinding "Only Time") form a gorgeous trilogy that suggest Enya has deepened her focus on the nexus where sophisticated pop and regal mysticism, the twin rivers of her singular sound, form a seamless intersection. The disc's gentle timbre is disturbed only once, and in memorable fashion, with "Tempus Vernum," a marshalling of mythic sonic forces that brings to mind the theme from the De Beers diamond commercial, but with a Celtic/Goth edge. Additional highlights abound. The closing "Lazy Days" will leave your soul dancing in a shower of flower petals and sunshine. A wonderful recording. --Terry Wood ... Read more

Reviews (646)

11 tracks, without unnecessary percussion
The various tracks have lyrics sung in English except where otherwise noted. Enya composed and sang all the songs, as well as performing all the accompaniment (including non-lyrical voices). Roma Ryan wrote the lyrics, while Nicky Ryan helped arrange the songs.

I bought this primarily to get what I consider the *good* arrangement of "Only Time" (more about that below), but I've come to enjoy the other songs as well.

"A Day without Rain" has no lyrics in any language; it's essentially instrumental. The piece is dominated by a very clear solo piano, which I personally always associate with water imagery in Enya's music.

"Wild Child" Very clear lyrics, with the refrain "What a day / what a day to take to / a wild child".

"Only Time" has two arrangements that I'm aware of; *this* is the arrangement that *hasn't* been marred by unnecessary percussion accompaniment. (While Enya ordinarily can do no wrong, whoever arranged the percussive version seems to have been oblivious to the typical feel of her music.) In this arrangement, the accompaniment is dominated by staccato string, without any percussion at all.

"Tempus Vernum" (Latin for "Springtime") sung in Latin, has a comparatively long instrumental prologue, dominated by violin and deeper-voiced string instruments. Even when the singing does begin, it's softer than the driving accompaniment, which is of the dramatic steeple-chasing variety.

"Deora ar mo chroi" (Tears on My Heart) is sung in Gaelic (although the accompanying booklet inside the CD gives the English translation first). This song is very much dominated by Enya's lyrics, with some non-lyrical vocal accompaniment, and some rather low-key keyboard accompaniment that only becomes noticeable during the choruses.

"Flora's Secret" Rather staccato arrangement in waltz tempo, mainly string but with a little bit of bass drum. "Lovers in the long grass / look above them / only they can see / where the clouds are going / only to discover / dust and sunlight / ever make the sky so blue."

"Fallen Embers" Primarily accompanied by piano but including keyboard. "Once, when the night seemed forever / I was with you."

"Silver Inches" - Instrumental only, staccato string with non-lyrical vocals. Waltz tempo, string dominated by violin (but plucked rather than bowed), with keyboard phasing in only partway through the piece.

"Pilgrim" is dominated by Enya's singing, with very soft accompaniment so that the lyrics are very easy to follow. Even on the chorus, the accompaniment's volume is kept in check so that she's easy to understand. "Each heart is a pilgrim, / each one wants to know / the reason where the winds die / and where the stories go. / Pilgrim in your journey / you may travel far..."

"One by One" is again sung very clearly with quiet string-dominated accompaniment, so that the lyrics are easy to follow.The refrain is "she says Adios, says Adios, Goodbye. / One by one my leaves fall. / One by one my tales are told."

"Lazy Days" is driven by a staccato string accompaniment (both plucked strings and very sharp bow work on violin), but at a faster tempo than that of the good arrangement of "Only Time", to the point that it makes me think of images of horses running in slow motion; not *very* fast, but the impression is of movement at a stately pace.

Enya' s "A Day Without Rain"
From the grand country of Scotland comes an artist of great talents.The remarkable and soothing voice of the famous Enya sets the mood for relaxation.The melodious harmonies from her music has given her loyal fans a sense of peace and serenity.Enya, with a sense of flow in her music, has a unique style like no other.Each of her songs have movement.Also, in most of her songs, Enya sings in one key tone, but then shifts to another tone at any point in the song.From her album "A Day Without Rain", the track "Only Time" is a perfect example of this feature.

The album "A Day Without Rain" is worth buying in order to experience the Celtic styles of Enya.Enya's ever popular song "Only Time" contains music with such tranquility and composure.It also has soft tones that can help unwind the daily stress we all seem to experience.Another song from this album, "Flora's Secret", is another song with much sweetness.It is a very happy and cheery song with much joy and excitement.

The title track "A Day Without Rain" is a very powerful and melodious song that is a part of Enya's album.Although Enya does not sing in this song, it still has the same distinct style that is being carried in her songs.Another song, "Lazy Days", is another song with a rhythm added to it.There is the same style of different tones used in the song.Each of Enya's songs has a different harmony that greatly influences and creates the sense of placidity.

Enya's music seems to be very healthy and good for the soul because it doesn't contain harsh tones or inappropriate language that can send a negative message.It is her lyrics and styles of music that make her songs so beautiful, elegant, and apposite for listeners to hear.In fact, Enya's music is suitable for all ages, young and old.Her songs are traditional, fairytale-like songs, each telling a different story.Enya's music is awe-inspiring and sends a positive message to her fans.

The artist from Scotland has so much to offer.Enya has accomplished to create songs of such significance and meaning.They bring pleasure and a sense of peace.Also, Enya's music is very appropriate for all ages and is good to listen to anytime of the day.Let Enya's harmonies fill your heart with joy, peace, and tranquility through her album "A Day Without Rain".

Perfect in every way!
I am a big fan of enya's music. When i got this CD i was very excited. Enya's music no matter what cd it is it will put a smile on your face. The songs on this CD are very cool. My favorites are
6.flora's secret
8.silver inches
7.fallen embers
10. one by one and pilgrim(number 9).
enya's music is both lovely and peaceful. Very good for going to sleep at night. Wild child is cool too. It is very upbeat and cheerful. Enya is very cool and I can't wait till she comes out with another. GO ENYA! ... Read more

Asin: B000050XEI
Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative    2. Celtic New Age    3. Contemporary Celtic    4. Contemporary Instrumental    5. New Age / Meditation    6. Pop   

HoMedics BMAT-5 Bubble Spa Bath Mat Massager with PVC Mat and Touch Pad Control
Average Customer Review:
Health and Beauty
list price: $110.00
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Editorial Review

Fitting the soft mat of this unit into any bathtub by running theflexible hose from the control unit into the water instantly converts the tubinto a bubble-massage spa. The 47-by-14-inch mat, made of PVC plastic, adheresfirmly to the tub with suction cups and fills with air to cushion the body. The14-foot hose, which attaches to the tub with a suction cup, delivers bubbles oncommand with 600 watts of power. Using either the LED-illuminated touch pad onthe control unit or the cordless remote control, massage duration can beselected (15, 30, or 60 minutes) as well as the massage strength (high, medium,or low), the bubble speed (high, medium, or low), and either steady bubbles orone of three variable bubble patterns. The water-resistant remote controloperates with two 3-volt batteries (which are included) and fits into a holderthat adheres to wall or tub with a suction cup. The control unit's power cord is14 feet long. The spa carries a two-year warranty against defects. --FredBrack ... Read more

Features

• Mat measures 47 by 14 inches; 2-year warranty against defects
• Converts any bathtub quickly into a bubble-massage spa
• Operates with both touch-pad controls and cordless remote control
• 15-, 30-, or 60-minute timer; 3 bubble speeds, 3 massage strengths
• Soft mat fills with air to cushion body, adheres with suction cups

Reviews (3)

I really enjoy mine...
My daughter gave me mine for christmas in 02 & I have to say I really love it !! I haven't noticed the water getting colder but will check it out when I use it tonight. I'm looking at it for a friend that just had surgery on her shoulder area & think it will help her as it has helped me with my back pain.I agree,they really need to do something about the noise level, and I'm not crazy about the way the hose sometimes will slip out of the mat. Other than that I have no complaints, it works great & not only is it relaxing , it also helps with fibromyalgia & chronic back pain.

Ice cold and quite loud
I was excited to receive a BubbleSpa Massaging Bubble Mat as a gift, and looked forward to many relaxing baths.

Upon assembling and starting up the unit, I was pleased to see the thousands of bubbles that filled my tub. Although the unit was *extremely loud*, I overlooked this in anticipation of a relaxing spa experience.

Upon entering the bathtub (which I had filled with hot water minutes earlier), I was shocked to find that the water had already turned cold. Upon further investigation, I realized that the air being pumped through the Homedics unit and out to the spa mat was producing *ice cold* bubbles, which quickly turned my relaxing hot bath into an arctic nightmare.

I am not a fan of cold baths, and can find no use for this product.

If you like very cold and loud baths, then this product is for you. If you enjoy taking baths to RELAX, you might want to check out another product.

A little cool...
Although I was really impressed at how powerful this spa was and how easy it was to set up, I was disappointed at how fast it cooled down the bath water.The engine blows cool air into the mat and it can get pretty chilly.I anticipate using this more in the summer for that reason. ... Read more

Asin: B000063TL2
Subjects:  1. Spa    2. Bath Spas    3. Bathtubs    4. (Bath Tubs)    5. Back Massagers    6. Massage   

California Baby Bubble Bath, Aromatherapy, Overtired & Cranky - 13 fl oz
Average Customer Review:
Health and Beauty
list price: $12.50 -- our price: $9.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Please read all label information on delivery
• Divert a tantrum or wind down from a stressful day; tangerine, sweet orange, and chamomile scent
• Special bubbling formula contains mild vegetable-derived bubbling agents
• Enriched with a nourishing herbal complex that works to protect delicate skin
• For newborn and older; great for adults, too

Reviews (1)

My absolute favorite bubble bath of all time!
I take a bubble bath nightly, and I have tried every kind of bubble bath that I can get my hands on.California Baby's Overtired & Cranky bubble bath is hands-down the best product of its kind that I've found!

I like California Baby for a number of reasons, including the fact that there is no Sodium Laureth Sulfate or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in the bubble bath, both of which really dry out my skin.It's almost impossible to find even a handful of products that don't use one of those two ingredients, so I was thrilled to discover California Baby!I also love the light, natural smell (you don't feel like you're bathing in an air freshener), the large amount of bubbles (a lot more than you might expect from a soap-free product), and the fact that it's extremely gentle.Plus, each bottle comes with a bubble wand inside, so you can blow bubbles all over your bathroom!

I know that I'm carrying on a lot, but I really think that anyone who enjoys a nice bath should try California Baby.If you're like me, you won't want to use anything else. ... Read more

Asin: B0000537CV
Sales Rank: 10794

Baraka (Special Collector's Edition)
Director: Ron Fricke
Average Customer Review:
DVD (25 September, 2001)
list price: $19.98 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The word Baraka means "blessing" in several languages; watchingthis film, the viewer is blessed with a dazzling barrage of images thattranscend language. Filmed in 24 countries and set to an ever-changing global soundtrack, the movie draws somesurprising connections between various peoples and the spaces they inhabit,whether that space is a lonely mountaintop or a crowded cigarette factory. Someof these attempts at connection are more successful than others: for instance,an early sequence segues between the daily devotions of Tibetan monks, OrthodoxJews, and whirling dervishes, finding more similarity among these rituals thanone might expect. And there are other amazing moments, as when sped-up footageof a busy Hong Kong intersection reveals a beautiful symmetry to urban life thatcould only be appreciated from the perspective of film. The lack of context isoccasionally frustrating--not knowing where a section was filmed, or the meaningof the ritual taking place--and some of the transitions are puzzling. However,the DVD includes a short behind-the-scenes featurette in which cinematographerRon Fricke (Koyaanisqatsi) explains that the effect was intentional:"It's not where you are that's important, it's what's there." And what's here,in Baraka, is a whole world summed up in 104 minutes. --Larisa LomackyMoore ... Read more

Features

• Color
• Widescreen
• Dolby

Reviews (235)

A Truly Moving Film
This film was truly moving and had all the things that are signifigant (and needed)for all life. This film showed nature, religion, and civilization-the basis of which our whole world was formed. This was a truly moving film and I reccommend that everyone who can see it go see it. Keep some tissues handy, too!

Breathtaking
I saw this movie on T.V and I just had to purchase my own copy. The constant flow of imagery, rich music and cultural elements make you feel as if you are in a dream. It is the most artistic movie I know I'll ever watch. I also like the fact that it is not another boring and subjective documentary; instead you can let your imagination and spirit feel the beautiful sensations being thrown at you. It is a whirlwind of deep emotions that give you shivers while you "experience" this movie.

The culmination of this cinematic approach, so far
This is what Koyaanisqatsi and Chronos grew up to be.A more mature and diverse film, it is rich and full and makes a magnificent statement.If you keep an eye on the theatres, you may see the new prints that have been made circulating - at least in Seattle it has played locally in recent years and is not to be missed on the big screen, but even on your TV, prepare a time when you have at least 30 minutes after the film completes to steep in it.This is great art. ... Read more

Asin: B00005M91K
Subjects:  1. Documentary   

Timex T600B CD Stereo Clock Radio with Nature Sounds (Black)
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $129.99
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Editorial Review

Small yet robust, the Timex T600B is no ordinary clock radio. With a CDplayer, an 18-preset digital tuner, stereo speakers, four "nature" soundsamples, and three separate alarms, the T600B may cost more than the averageclock radio, but it still represents a solid value.

Short and stout with rounded sides and a contrasting silver-and-black body, theT600B looks a little intimidating. It has far more buttons than most clockradios, which we suspect may puzzle first-time users. Fortunately, many of thesecontrols are used for setup, while the most frequently used buttons are setapart and logically situated.

The Indiglo (blue) display shows time, date, radio frequency, CD track, andindicates which nature sound (ocean, brook, forest, or wind) is currentlyselected for the alarm. Setting the six AM and 12 FM presets is verystraightforward, and when powered up the T600B's last-station memoryautomatically returns to the station selected before the radio was switchedoff.

The sound of the T600B is quite good, but the close proximity of the twospeakers yields little stereo separation. And though it does deliver a full,clean sound, don't mistake this clock radio for a mini stereo system. Overdriveit, and the cabinet will start to buzz in protest. If you want to listen athigher levels, we'd suggest using the mini headphone jack or investing in a moremusic-oriented clock radio or shelf stereo.

All in all, the Timex T600B is a good value: it's small, sounds good, and ischock full of features. --Wayne Garcia

Pros:

• Very good sound, in moderation
• 18 tuner presets
• 3 alarms
• Headphone jack

Cons:

• Faceplate is cluttered
• Buzzes if overdriven

... Read more

Features

• Indiglo night light
• Stereo AM/FM clock radio with CD player
• Wake and sleep to tranquil nature sounds, radio, or CD
• Digital tuner with 18 presets
• Triple-alarm clock

Reviews (79)

Wish I hadn't bought it
There are WAY too many buttons, and it's way too easy to screw the thing up accidentally and oversleep because you shut off the alarm without realizing it. Plus, the time display is so big and so bright that I had to get used to it when I first bought it because the light made it difficult to fall asleep. I wish I hadn't bought it.

can;t see the time
There isno way you should buy this as you can not see the time at night.

Internals are too loud
Does what it says but the actual running noise "hum" is too loud, so loud in fact it will actually compete with soft CDs. I like a bit of Enya to wake me and I heard more of the unit than her mmmmming. Quite the duet.
The ocean waves and similar sounds are good however so it's nice for that. ... Read more

Asin: B00004VXAQ
Subjects:  1. Clock Radio (Radios)    2. Accessories (Accessory)   

Creations by Alan Stuart Do Not Disturb Satin Eye Mask, Assorted Colors - 1 ea
Average Customer Review:
Health and Beauty
list price: $6.12
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Reviews (7)

it's ok but lets in some lights
I think I have a say here as I've bought two sleep masks so far from amazon.com (no the third company). The first one is Mack's Shut-Eye Shade Premium Sleep Mask, which functions better much than this one but is more stiff. I was afraid that this would press again my face too tight and too hard so that my face would be flat one morning. The I bought this one. It comes in pink as many reviewers said. It is just big enough for my small face but I don't think it'll suit every face. It is softer than the first one, and looks better and girly. This product has one strip behind, as opposed to two strips in the Mack's Shut-Eye Shade Premium Sleep Mask.

Goofy beyond belief
I ordered three of these and they are all different sizes.Who woulda figured?You can't specify color when you order, but a word to the wise: the pink one is much smaller than the red one and lets in the sunlight. If you are a pinhead then you are in luck.

One other point--the "Do Not Disturb" stitching is ineffective...no one pays attention to it.

Very nice, only one problem.
I love this sleep mask, however, as has been mentioned in some of the other reviews, the elastic band that holds it on your head does get overly stretched out fairly quickly.I still use mine though and the problem can be fixed by stitching up the extra elastic. ... Read more

Asin: B00005RE9U
Sales Rank: 13274

HoMedics ES-1 Envira-Spa Aroma and Sound Machine
Average Customer Review:
Health and Beauty
list price: $45.00
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Editorial Review

Just add some steamed towels to this aroma and sound machine and you have a complete home spa. The machine, which resembles a small flying saucer, combines the ancient art of aromatherapy with modern sound technology for a rich sensory experience. You can customize your spa environment by choosing from four all-natural scents and six soothing sounds: ocean waves, a summer night, a brook, spring rain, woodland sounds, or white noise. Try experimenting with sound and scent combinations: the "relaxation" aroma beads, a blend of lavender, chamomile, and sage, work well with the sound of ocean waves if you want to drift off to sleep, for example. You can also use your own essential oils to further broaden your relaxation options. There's an aromatherapy-only option if you'd rather listen to your own music, as well as a sound-only option. The machine is powered by an AC adapter or four AA batteries (not included) and is small enough to slip into a suitcase. --Laura Cuthbert ... Read more

Features

• Natural aroma beads included; also works with essential oils
• Combines aromatherapy with relaxing sounds for a sensory experience
• Easily portable at only 7 inches in diameter
• Customize with a choice of six sounds and four scents
• Powered by enclosed AC adapter or batteries (not included)

Reviews (76)

for the money works well
I have a child that is not a sleeper he did go as well as stay asleep with this machine it takes his abuse as well.The scent part is a bit lame it is not what I'd ever use again.

Just ok, not great, not terrible,
I got one of these for my girlfriend for XMAS and it is ok.

the great thing about it is that it has aroma and a noise maker, which are pretty difficult to find together.

the bad, the beads are not much aroma, maybe for a 10x10 room, but for anything bigger I'd suggest a nice candle. another bad things is that the noise make can only be turned on for an hour max. this happends to be great for my girlfriend since she normally leaves the tv on at a low volume for about an hour, but for someone like me, i need the sound all night.

the good, again it has noise maker + aroma. And you can use the scented oils in it, which i would highly suggest. forget the beads

Don't buy!
I have only had it 5 months and the fan for the scents stopped working.I agree with others that the sounds are on a very short loop and you cannot use the scents with the sounds because the fan is very loud.And it does not make very much scent for all the racket it makes.

A previous reviewer said you cannot run it continuously, but you can.You just keep cycling the timer button until the light goes out.Then you are able to run the noise or scents for as long as you like.

It has a 2 year warranty and even though it's a hassle I'm sending mine back to the manufacturer. ... Read more

Asin: B000050FF4
Subjects:  1. Spa    2. Aromatherapy   

WMF Manhattan Stainless Steel Cocktail Shaker with Built-In Strainer
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $50.00 -- our price: $29.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

If you like it shaken, not stirred, then this shaker will take you there in style. This simply designed three-piece cocktail shaker has the contemporary look of high-quality 18/10 stainless steel and sports a brushed matte finish. After you shake up your concoction, just remove the cap and pour through the built-in strainer. No need to fumble around with separate pieces. Sample your creations from the cap, which doubles as a taster cup. Stores conveniently right in your liquor cabinet. --Matthew Evans ... Read more

Features

• Stores in liquor cabinet
• Made of high-quality 18/10 stainless steel
• Brushed matte finish for attractive appearance
• Cap doubles as a taster cup
• Remove cap to pour, no need to fumble with several pieces

Reviews (7)

Solid construction.Will last forever!
Don't waste your time on cheaper brands.This shaker will stand the test of time.Unlike other reviewers, my shaker is not too tight at all, though I imagine freezing it would make it hard to pull apart.You can't go wrong here.ZH

Great shaker with "Super" tight strainer/lid...
I really like this shaker but wow that shaker is really in place!I suppose it's a pretty good thing too because I have used other shakers and while shaking up the mix the top went flying and the icky-sticky stuff took a trip around the room.I use mine mostly for making Margarita's.I love that you can keep it in the freezer after cleaning so that it's nice and frosty when you are ready to use it.But........you better work out those fingers and hands cuz brother that lid is tight! I've found the best way for me to loosen it's grip is to hold with one hand and slightly twist with the other while pushing up.

Great Little Shaker
I like this a lot.It is very compact and easy to use. I like the built in ice strainer. You just slip off the cap and pour. No hassles of the top jamming and having to beat it open with a knife. You will need a finer strainer if you want to filter out citrus pulp, for example. But for most cocktails you are just straining out the ice. But I like this one for it's convenience. ... Read more

Asin: B00004S4V0
Subjects:  1. Spirits    2. Martinis    3. Cocktail Shakers    4. Barware    5. (Bar Ware)    6. Bartending