Listened to the first 3 discs this afternoon (halfway in) and my first impression is that this set is SPECIAL!
There’s something in it for everyone; from the more introspective, personal songs, to rock, funk, jazz, blues, and even dare I say it, some pop. The sheer breadth of music on offer is truly astonishing. This is a journey to be savoured, with many aural delights to be enjoyed along the way; including for those looking for them – some truly wonderful guitar solos and breaks (note, they’re in Bill’s 2020’s style though – not the 1970’s).
What did take me by surprise, I’m not too sure why, but that’s how accessible it is, even on the first listen. I’m actually finding the listening experience to be quite uplifting and it’s making me feel, despite all the worrying things happening in the world at present and as strange as it sounds, fairly upbeat and optimistic. I’d even go so far as to say, with a booster jab and by listening to My Private Cosmos, we will get through it!
I think I was probably expecting much of the music to be more ‘challenging’ given the circumstances and period Bill composed and recorded it, however My Private Cosmos wears its heart and charms on its sleeve and IMHO will be enjoyed by all those who truly appreciate Bill’s musical world.
I would love to offer up some song titles as being my personal ‘stand outs’ however, at this stage the list would have to be most of the 47 tracks I’ve listened to so far!
In summary, my thoughts on the package as a whole; yes, it’s a given that it’s not an inconsiderable financial outlay for most people, but I would say to anyone who is able to, get a copy now while you can and bring a bit of pure joy into your life. I honestly think you wouldn’t regret it; the words of Keats come to mind ‘A Thing of Beauty is a Joy Forever’.
And for those waiting for their copy to arrive; you’re not going to like this one – you’ll LOVE it!!
Disc 3, Track 7: "Techno Punk Gets Rhythm" is a two minute number whose drums are reminiscent of 90s drum 'n bass Bill with a dash of Here Comes Mr. Mercury jazz guitar. A pleasant little sonic surprise.
While mine arrived back in December, I finally got hold of it the other day for my birthday.
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Yes, Quinault. The Coastal Cowboys were Wenner and Tilley playing their guitars and produced a CD. I have their CD recording buried among my CD's somewhere....
Yes, great idea Lee! The Ordinary Idiots! Formed by Chuck 'Bird' here in L.A. I was one, as was Eric Tilley, Murray and Eric Wenner. We would have dinner or hang out at Tilley's apartment. It was great fun! We were always interested in having more join us. Unfortunately, Bird and Murray passed away. I lost touch with Tilley (he's somewhere in L.A.) and Wenner moved to Texas.
wonder toy, first name real dennis iirc, was around there. he's been gone a few years from here tho
Hey Steve!
Mine came today too! 42 days? Oh well...😯 I'm thankful it didn't get lost.🐌
Hi Steve and Lee!
Thanks to both of you for the quick responses! Thanks, Steve for the info on the shipping and thanks so much, Lee for the offer, I should have done the same by expediting. Like Steve, I've never had a problem with Burning shed shipping to Los Angeles. I'll wait.....I hate to say that I haven't heard Mixed up Kid ye,t and I finally got my Denon turntable up and running after like, 30 years! I'm playing Bill's records again!
Hello Steve,
Did you receive your My Private Cosmos since your post 6 days ago?
I have yet to receive my delivery here in LA. I'm guessing at this point, I will need to buy another one and this time not by regular mail.
Thanks.
The set has arrived in San Diego and was immediately played. Began with Disc 4, as per the consensus, and enjoyed it so much that Disc 5 was played shortly thereafter. Mixed Up Kid had created some high expectations and there was no disappointment with the two discs.
Musical observation: There was some nice squelchy filter work on some of the thicker-sounding synths on this album. Hadn't noticed it on previous releases and curious if there was something new at work.
Now this is vintage Nelson music,but I must say,Bill,its not just the songs,but all the time and effort you put into it.You have first class guitar tones,you are a first class blender of sounds.After reading about your work on Crimsworth,I know you put in serious time and effort on your work.I think you have never gotten the credit you deserve,for not just playing guitars,but the tones,and the blending of guitars,the blending of Synths,the mixing of sounds. Cosmos?First class.My Strats and Korgs tip their hats to you!
A few modest listening notes: after listening several times in sequence to all six CDs (seven including Mixed Up Kid), I decided it was somewhat overwhelming (recall: it's more like TWELVE albums, since each CD is really double-album length, in terms of the old-style vinyl double album). So: I'm now listening to two CDs only, over a given period - currently Mixed Up Kid and CD #4 of My Private Cosmos (seemed the logical choice to start with, as the most "immediate" to my ears - not to mention awesome & wonderful: quintessential BN). These Masterworks have to be savoured properly, you know! 💎😎
Hang in there Steve. It will be worth the wait! Positive thoughts sent your way for quick arrival!
I am unfortunately still waiting for delivery 😳 today is one month since it was shipped…anyone else waiting for the same ship….ment ? 😳😬😂
I have had my copy of My Private Cosmos for about three weeks now. Only three discs in as I keep going back to hear each again before moving on. Amazing collection thus far! I now consider My Private Cosmos one of my all time favorites and I'm still only half way through! My hope is that this set receives it's well deserved recognition. Thank you Bill for an amazing set of music!
Just coming to the end of the 96 tracks in one play through - fantastic addition to the canon imho (despite inevitable clock-ticking mortality uneasiness!) - stand-outs not yet even mooted - will need to immerse myself in this for a while before it all makes sense, but, all-in-all, good effort!
I have finally found the time to listen to the entire collection, and it is superb. What a marvelous opus, filled with powerful songs, profound lyrics and gorgeous music...Bill's playing is simply incredible throughout, he's in fine voice and, well....I just love it! Thanks, Bill!
I have really been enjoying My Private Cosmos. I like the way each of Bill's albums have their own personality. This album covers a lot of territory musically, but maintains a certain feeling or mood, of sorts. Anyway, I like it. There's loads of fantastic guitars, and also a good deal of piano, which I always love. I think of Bill's piano playing as simple, but soulful.
Keep up the good work, Bill. 😀
I have listened to mixed up kid and disc one of cosmos.I had an accident and was knocked of my bicycle by a van a few weeks later my ankle injury became infected.I am enjoying what I've heard so far.What I will say is that I seem to be able to listen to Bill's Music even in difficult times .Some artists I can't do that with
Received my copy a few days before Christmas and took a whole morning listening to all six CD's in order. I jumped aboard the Nelson Voyager and circled his private cosmos and came out the other end like a child so awestruck and emotionally drained from the experience. The wealth of material was especially emotional to me and I have to thank Mr. Nelson for sharing his soul which touched my spirit to no end. An emotional journey, if you will. Kudos!
OMG!!!!Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah,ah,ah,ah,ah,ah,ah,,SSSSSssssssss!