Built to Last (feat. Russ Freeman) [Deluxe Edition]

If this is the direction that Russ Freeman is taking the group, this is where I get off! This effort is so out of character for this group . . . one or two decent tracks, but the rest is not worth the price of admission.

Please go back to Topaz, Black Diamond, Wild Card, Life In the Tropics. Very disappointed. I'm a DIEHARD Rip fan and it PAINS me to write this!!!

Each track is new and different. All tracks are unique with combinations of strong melodies. There is something for everyone. I Just happen to like them all.

The songs on this album are like sound portraits, with complex layering of instruments and sounds. The arrangements are interesting - you have to listen carefully to hear them complement each other. A very different Rippingtons album but one worth really listening to.

Great players playing soft garbage.Comon guys put out a fusion cd.Something that smokes,burns,rocks,and grooves.You are puttin me to sleep--sincerly metal priest!

Sorry Russ, you guys missed the mark on this one. I'm wondering if you went 'Vegas' here? If so, what happens in Vegas should stay in Vegas. Sorry buddy. I usually love you guys. Not this ime around. We will try you again on your next go around.

Different, yes it is. But in fact, that's a hallmark of the Rippingtons over the years. They have produced strikingly different sounds from the first album to the last, and after a couple of listens, they manage to find themselves in the repeat play track. This album is just another of the same trend…a different sound from a band that has made different sounds come alive. First listen I was taken back, trying to figure out what was different. 2nd listen I just let the music play as it should. By the third listen, it was good. Since then I have nearly blown out speakers on a few tunes. Those who are dedicated to the old original Ripp sound may not like this new sound. But…such can be said for many Ripp albums. Topaz, Wild Card, Let it Ripp, all a different sound, but fantastic in their own way. Just my opinion, but this CD is fantastic in its own way. You want power, listen to the opening tune or blast In the Shadow of Giants. Seeking the pleasant? Hotel Deville or Black Oak. Plain good fun? Cougars & Gigolos or Route 66. Interesting and different? Fool's Gold and Monument/Monolith (truly a different move for Russ & the band to have a guest soloist on electric rock guitar). Bottom line: it is different. It will stand on its own and remain its own sound. And given a chance, it will be played to death.

It nice to be able to listen to a musician develop from the start of their career and see how they have changed and matured over the years. I have been a fan of Russ Freeman for about the last 22 years or so and it's wonderful to hear the differences in his music. Built to Last is a continuation of this journey and a well placed benchmark highlighting his his talent and the people he has chosen to surround himself with. I would highly recommend this album to any one who enjoys listing to good music preformed by folks who enjoy playing it. Truly this effort by the Rippingtons is Built to Last!

This is like nothing the Rips have done in the 25 years they have been making music... Unbelievable album. The sounds, the textures, the layers... For me it's musicality at it's finest...

Been a long time fan of the Ripps since the 80's. It seems that the last two albums have been more focused on the production of songs from a digital perspective and the whole sound of the Rippingtons has been lost. Just doesn't sound like a BAND anymore, but rather, a guitar player in his basement studio with the help of some friends and some new electronic gadgets. Where is the FULLNESS of the Rippingtons. Yes disappointed. Since Russ and the others are excellent musicians, how about attempting a 'Live in Studio" album, recorded like it used to be done before ProTools. Or even a totally acoustic album would be nice. Better luck next time Russ. This is the only album I have not even purchased one song.