The Abbey Road Sessions, Kylie Minogue Album Review

Just in time for the Holiday season Kylie Minogue is releasing her newest CD The Abbey Road Sessions.  Fans will want to make sure to get their copy as this CD features 16 songs from her 25 year career.   Songs include hits and previously unreleased works making it much more than a "hits" cd.  I will admit that this is the first CD that I have owned by Kylie Minogue but I am very happy to add it to my collection.  This would be a great CD to put in for "girl's night out"!

Really? It's been 25 years?  Wow, where does time go?

Track # 4 Hand On Your Heart really stood out to me.  It really captures her unique crystal clear sultry vocals.  It's a catchy tune that I can picture myself belting out around the house or listening to while relaxing.  La, la, la, la  la, la, la.... Can't Get You Outta My Head (Track 11) is one of my favorite Kylie Minogue songs and the reworked version on this CD is my favorite.  The Abbey Road Sessions beautifully pairs Kylie Minogue's vocals and orchestral arrangements.  Don't be fooled by "orchestral arrangements" this CD still delivers upbeat songs that Kylie Minogue is known for.  I've enjoyed listening to this CD several times while reading emails and catching up online.

Want to check it out for yourself?  The video below is an excellent sampler of the works on this CD.  I know it's almost 9 minutes long but go ahead give it a listen while you are getting caught up here on StuffSmart.  I'd love to know what you think.  Which song/s is your favorite?

The Abbey Road Sessions Track Listing:

1. All The Lovers

2. On A Night Like This

3. Better The Devil You Know

4. Hand On Your Heart

5. I Believe In You

6. Come Into My World

7. Finer Feelings

8. Confide In Me

9. Slow

10. The Locomotion

11. Can’t Get You Out Of My Head

12. Where The Wild Roses Grow

13. Flower

14. I Should Be So Lucky

15. Love At First Sight

16. Never Too Late

A few facts that I didn't know:

• Kylie has been celebrating K25, her 25th Anniversary in music, all throughout 2012. It has been an extraordinary career so far—60 million global album sales, multiple hit singles, global tours, and industry accolades—all of which has permanently cemented her place in music history as a bona fide superstar.
• Kylie is a breast cancer survivor and donates her time to American Cancer Society, as well as amFAR for AIDS research.
• Kylie’s latest single “Flower” is a song she wrote several years ago following her battle with breast cancer, to the child she wishes she might one day still have.

Kylie Minogue's The Abbey Road Sessions is available for purchase:

• via iTunes
• via Amazon.com Deluxe Edition (Special offer: Buy a CD, get $1 in Amazon MP3 Credit. Limit one promotional credit per customer. see details on product page)
• via Amazon.com Standard Edition (Special offer: Buy a CD, get $1 in Amazon MP3 Credit. Limit one promotional credit per customer. see details on product page)

*Disclosure:  I was provided a free copy of this CD through One2One Network for review.  By posting, I am eligible for incentives.  All opinions stated are my own.

Avery Office Supplies From Shoplet

Love office supplies?  I do.  I'm not sure why but I love office supplies and trying new ways to organize my home office.  This week I tried three new products from Avery.

Avery Heavy Duty Ring Reference Binder is a great improvement in the office staple.  The binder's look and feel is not much different than the other Avery binders on the market.  My favorite feature is the easy open rings.  This is the first one touch open that is actually a one touch open without fear of breaking a nail or injuring your fingers.  The rings open like magic with only a slight touch.  Thumbs up for this great feature.   I also like that in contrast to traditional binders that have one inner pocket on the inside of each cover this binder features two inner pockets per inside cover.

Avery Custom Binder Spine Inserts are a product that made me say, where have these been during the many times I have tried to cut to fit and customize my own spine labels?  The labels consist of 5 1/2" labels on cardstock type paper.  The weight gives them the right amount of stiffness to easily slide into the spine of your ring binder without bending. I also like that you can go to http://avery.com/print and use their templates including pictures/icons for FREE.  I played around with a couple of different designs.  The program provided by Avery was extremely user friendly.  My only complaint is because of the format you must print the entire sheet/5 labels at once.  I was able to put all 5 to good use by also making a couple of label's for my daughter's school binder (also by Avery).  

What do you think?

The binder labels were so easy to print and slide into the spine of the 3 ring binder.

Avery Note Tabs are a extremely handy way to organize your binder, files and more.  The binder tab is an easy way to organize and keep important pages easily accessible.  I like that the binder tabs are sturdy and very easy to write on without smearing and easy to place where needed.  The binder tabs allow you to turn any page into a divider or organizing tool.  

I would like to say a huge Thank You! to Shoplet for allowing me to review these three very handy products from Avery.  If you don't already shop with Shoplet I would encourage you to check them out.  You may always find them by using the Shoplet button in the sidebar of this blog or visit them at: http://www.shoplet.com/

I
SHOP GREEN

*Disclosure:  I received the three office supplies mentioned in this review free of charge in exchange for sharing this review with my readers.  The review is my honest opinion.  The pictures are actual pictures of the products I received and reviewed.  No other compensation was received.

The Night Night Book by Marianne Richmond

I was given the opportunity to review a sweet little book for bedtime reading.  The Night Night Book by Marianne Richmond is a board book for you to read to your infant and to read with your toddler.  This is a sturdy book and is sized well for toddler's little hands.  In this book we follow a child on their way to bed saying Night Night to things that filled their busy day before finally reaching the bed to lay down to go Night Night.  It is written in a way that helps your child wind down before laying down to sleep.

The cover is only a sample of the artwork that is contained in this book.  While I would describe the illustrations as bright and entertaining they are also masterfully done in tones that are soothing.

I would recommend The Night Night Book by Marianne Richmond.  The book is available at most bookstores as well as at Amazon.com.  This book also qualifies for Amazon's 4-for- 3 promotion meaning that you can mix it with other promotional items to buy 3 and get a fourth one free!  Books make great gifts for children.  Keep this book in mind when shopping for baby showers, birthdays, Christmas and other Holidays.

*Disclosure:  I was provided with a copy of The Night Night Book for review.  The review posted is my honest opinion.  I was not compensated for this review.

Country Dance for Nintendo Wii ~ Review

I was given the opportunity to review the new Country Dance game for Nintendo Wii by Gamemill.  I live very close to the country music capital however am only slightly familiar with country hits.  That being said, I knew almost all of the songs included on this game.  Do you want to have some fun and burn some calories?  This game will help you do just that.  The rating is E 10+ I'm sure for the lyrics of some of the songs.  My daughter and I enjoyed battling it out against each other with the various dances.  I actually found myself wanting more song choices and dances.  I hope they release a second version with a longer play list. 

If you like to dance this game is worth a try.  If you like country music try Country Dance for some dancing fun.



The tracklist includes 25 country music songs:
Alan Jackson - Chattahoochee
Miley Cyrus - Hoedown Throwdown
Brooks & Dunn - Boot Scootin’ Boogie
Billy Ray Cyrus - Achy Breaky
Toby Keith - A Little Less Talk
Dierks Bentley - What Was I Thinking
Darius Rucker - Alright
Gretchen Wilson - Redneck Woman
Laura Bell Bundy - Giddy On Up
Randy Travis - Forever and Ever Amen
Tracy Byrd - Watermelon Crawl
Josh Turner - Why Don’t We Just Dance
Luke Brian - Ran is A Good Thing
Mary Chapin Carpenter - I Feel Lucky
Jerrod Niemann - Lover Lover
Josh Thompson - Beer on the Table
Easton Corbin - A Little More Country Than That
Carrie Underwood - Cowboy Casanova
Brad Paisley - Water
Sugarland - Stuck Like Glue
Trace Adkins - Honky Tonk Badonkadonk
Tim McGraw - Just to See You Smile
Zac Brown Band - Chicken Fried
Rascal Flatts - Life is A Highway
Blake Shelton - All About Tonight
Miranda Lambert - White Liar
Johnny Cash - Ring of Fire

*Disclosure:  I was provided a copy of Country Dance for Nintendo Wii for review.  The review and opinions are my own.  I have not received any monetary compensation for this post.

InstantPeel by Earthen Review

I received InstantPeel by Earthen to review.  I will be one of the first to admit that I am not a skincare junkie and have never been to a professional spa.  Don't get me wrong,  I have tried a number of skincare regimens but haven't stuck with them for one reason or another.  I have what I would describe as dry skin and have found some products to be extremely to harsh for me.  I was a little leery of a facial peel but InstantPeel is advertised as a "natural exfoliant" and is said to be safe for even sensitive skin.  InstantPeel is also attractive to me because I can use it in the shower without interrupting my normal schedule. 

I opened the individual treatment packet in the shower and followed the instructions.  I used the product on small areas working my way from forehead to chin (avoiding sensitive eye area).  There was absolutely no stinging, tingling, burning at all.  It was a little icky feeling the skin peel off as the treatment worked.  It also left me a little frightened that I may exit the shower red faced.  I was pleasantly surprised no redness at all.  My skin felt very smooth and looked even better.  I had just two small dry patches on my cheek and used my normal moisturizer. 

InstantPeel is an easy and affordable alternative to spa treatments.  Check out all of the products offered by : www.earthen-products.com


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

The Flightless Goose Book Review

When I volunteered to review a new children's book I had no idea what a treat that I was in for.  The Flightlesss Goose is based on a true story.  The story is written by Eric Goodman and beautifully illustrated in watercolor by his wife Nataliya.  The book is Published by The Writer's Lair Books.

The title cues you in on the book's story.  The author has taken the story of a goose to help teach children that we are all different and have different talents or gifts.  This is not a story with a fairytale ending however is a story with a realistic, true and honest ending that can give hope to adults and children alike.  The author uses the book to show children that no matter what our limitations might be each of us has a gift and we need to use it.  I would encourage educators, parents, grandparents and anyone who has a child in their life to check out this book.  I would say it would be a must have for any school library.  Check out The Flightless Goose  which is a fun site offering a sneak peek into this amazing book and The Writer's Lair Books for information on the book from the publisher.  The book is hardback and retails for $15.95 and is available for purchase through The Flightless Goose Website   and Amazon. A fun read-a-long CD is available through the book's website.

I love giving books as gifts so don't forget that this would make an excellent Christmas gift for children or teachers!

*Disclosure:  I was given a copy of the book and audio CD in exchange for my honest review.  I received no monetary compensation for this post.

KT Tunstall Tiger Suit Review

 

 KT Tunstall's newest album Tiger Suit was released Oct. 5, 2010.  This album is very promising with the first single released, "Fade Like a Shadow" already making it to radio's top 20.  I can't help but think of "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree" when I think of KT Tunstall.  I loved that song and it's catchy tune. 

Thanks to One 2 One network I received a copy of Tiger Suit for review.  This album includes storytelling songs that we have come to expect from KT Tunstall.  I found this to be a great album to listen to throughout the busy day.  Tunstall's creative songwriting and captivating voice makes her music appealing to music lovers from multiple genres.  Tunstall is a grammy -nominated, multi-platinum singer-songwriter.  If you are a music lover I encourage you to check out Tiger Suit.  You may listen to samples and purchase Tiger Suit by clicking this: Amazon.com link.  Concert goers will want to check KT Tunstall's website for concert dates.  Her Fall tour will be 10/31-12/1.
For additional info:
* Website: http://bit.ly/KTsite

* Video: http://bit.ly/KTflasvid
* Twitter: http://bit.ly/KTtwitter
* Facebook: http://bit.ly/KTfbook
* Album Preview: http://bit.ly/KTpreview

*This review is my personal opinion, I am entered to win a gift card through One2One Network by participating.

One EskimO Review

As a member of One2One Network I was given the opportunity to review the cd One eskimO by One eskimO.  I hadn't heard of the group or the albumn so I wasn't sure what to expect.  I have added the video for their first single released from this album "Kandi".  The entire album has a pleasant mellow sound.  I would compare their style to Dave Matthews, JohnMayer and the like.  I would say that this is an excellent album to put on and sit down to at the end of the day and relax although it is also a great album for the car.  Listen for yourself.  I would love to hear your thoughts on "Kandi".

Please check out the One EskimO website here.  Follow One eskimO on  Facebook.  One eskimO's You Tube  page.  One eskimO is also available through Amazon by clicking One eskimO.

Band is on tour May/June/July supporting Michael Franti and in addition to festivals and headlining shows

Tour Dates
May 14 Miami, FL Fillmore
May 15 Jacksonville, FL Free Bird Live
May 18 Orlando, FL House of Blues
May 19 Tampa, FL The Ritz Ybor
May 22 Raleigh, NC Lincoln Theatre
May 24 Asheville, NC The Orange Peel
May 25 Charleston, SC The Music Farm
Jun 01 Toronto, ON The Guvernment
Jun 03 New York, NY The Beach at Governor’s Island
Jun 04 Boston, MA House of Blues
Jun 05 Essex Junction, VT Camplain Valley Expo
Jun 06 Hunter, NY Mountain Jam Festival
Jun 08 Royal Oak, MI Royal Oak Music Thtr
Jun 09 Grand Rapids, MI Orbit Room
Jun 12 Memphis, TN Minglewood Hall
Jun 13 Kansas City, MO Crossroads
Aug 14 Denver, CO Mile High Festival
*Disclosure I was offered a copy of One eskimO for review and entered in a One2One drawing for my participation. The opinions are my own.

Yogavive™ Apple Chips Review and Giveaway~Closed

I am so excited to tell everyone about Yogavive™ Apple Chips. They are Certified Organic and contain the equivalent of one apple in every bag. These are truly delicious. I have to say they taste too good to be fruit! Better yet we have all heard the phrase "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" and since each bag of Yogavive™ Apple Chips contains one apple they are a great way to boost your fruit intake while satisfying your sweet tooth. They also come in several awesome flavors to keep things lively. Yogavive has generously offered a giveaway to my readers. 5 Readers will win 6 boxes (30 bags) of Yogavive™ Apple Chips! That is an apple a day for 30 days!

To Enter:

Visit Yogavive™ Apple Chips and tell me which flavor sounds the best to you. If you do not have a blogger account please be sure to leave an email address in the comment so that I can contact you if you are a winner. To avoid spammers please use this format to list your email: stuffsmartblog(at)gmail(dot)com or you may email me with "Yogavive™ Apple Chips entry" in the subject line and I will enter you.

This entry is required before any additional entries will count.

Additional entries: Please leave comments for each that you do.

1-Follow me on Blogger (1 entry)

2-Fave me on Technorati (2 entries-comment for each)

3-Follow me on Twitter @StuffSmart and Tweet about this giveaway. Leave your tweet link in your comment. (1 entry per day)  (you may tweet:  RT @StuffSmart Yogavive™ Apple Chips 30 bag prize pack. 5 winners! Ends 10/15/09 http://bit.ly/Avn1J)

4-Visit Yogavive on Facebook www.facebook.com/yogavive. (1entry for visiting) (5 entries for becoming a fan-comment for each)

5-Follow Yogavive on Twitter @Yogavive. (1 entry)

6-Blog about this giveaway and leave a blog link in your comments (5 additional entries-comment for each)

Contest will end Oct 15, 2009 at midnight CST. One prize per person. US residents only. 5 Winners will be notified via email and have 72 hrs to get back to me with mailing information or a new winner will be chosen. Good Luck!

(I received no payment for my review or hosting a giveaway.  I was provided with a free sample of yogavive apple chips as a winner in one of their twitter/FB contests)