Music For The Masses

Under One Sun: Under One Sky

2011-03-31T08:57:00.000-07:00

Greenpeace Records Inc. was formed in 1992 in order to produce and market a series of albums which would promote and inspire interest in urgent global environmental issues. "Alternative NRG" is the first Greenpeace Records release. There are plans to produce future albums in a variety of musical genres including country-folk, classical, jazz and even comedy. While others have used some alternative energy sources in the recording process, all Greenpeace Records releases will be recorded and mixed using the solar electricity provided by the Greenpeace Mobile Solar Generator, "Cyrus" (Persian for "sun").

Greenpeace has had great success with expanding awareness of its issues through music. In 1989, the organization produced "Breakthrough", a double album compilation which was created to be released only in the former U.S.S.R. Intended as a sampler of some of the best of late-80s' rock, the album was later released worldwide as "Rainbow Warriors". The album sold in excess of three million copies in the former Soviet Union alone and went gold in several Western markets. To date, Greenpeace International has raised more than eight million dollars from worldwide album sales.

Greenpeace was founded in 1971 when a group of concerned individuals set sail for Amchitka Island, off Alaska, to protest against United States nuclear weapons testing. The nuclear test site was subsequently closed and Amchitka became and remains a wildlife sanctuary. From this beginning, Greenpeace has steadfastly maintained three fundamental principles from which it has never strayed: non-violence, no government nor corporate funding, and no endorsement of any political party.

Greenpeace has grown to be an international organization of 4.5 million members in 143 countries dedicated to the protection of our natural environment. It has 30 offices around the world and currently operates seven ships. Greenpeace campaigns to protect the environment from nuclear and toxic pollution, the commercial production and use of chlorine, the deforestation of rain and temperate forests, the testing and proliferation of nuclear weapons, the mining and reprocessing of nuclear fuel and the destruction of marine resources through indiscriminate fishing methods. Although known for spectacular actions to prevent or expose abuses to the environment, Greenpeace's resources are also devoted to research, public education and lobbying at local, national and international levels.

Greenpeace believes we are now experiencing the first impacts of climate change and that action is required now. Luckily, the "Solar Index" shows that solutions are at hand. The barriers to clean energy are clearly political, not technical. The funds and discussions that are raised by "Alternative NRG" will help get the message out. The sky should no longer needlessly be our battleground. Instead, we should think of the sky as an abundant, endless energy supply available now to end our addiction to fossil fuels.

Cause & Effect - Trip

2011-03-30T08:54:00.000-07:00

Oh! What a joy to hear a record that isn't taken over by twittering synthesizers, pumping bass lines and drum beats ten to the dozen, especially when it comes from Cause & Effect, the group that built up their reputation making infectious dance music from those very ingredients. "Trip" is first and foremost an album, not a load of sterile bumps and clicks cobbled together in the way that some of the records in the charts are at the moment. I actually think this is rather wonderful and just the thing for the more sensitive souls among us to sip our coffee to! Best moments are: "It's Over Now", "She Said" and "Alone".

Ratings: 9 out of 10

Pink Floyd - The Division Bell

2011-03-29T08:53:00.000-07:00

Pink Floyd is definitely my choice of the best rock band around. Just listen to their past offerings like "Dark Side Of The Moon", "The Wall", "Animals", etc., and you'll realise how bloody good they are. "The Division Bell" (a double-LP effort, i.e. 70 mins long) continues in the veins of "A Momentary Lapse Of Reason", featuring a stunning combination of thought-provoking lyrics ("For millions of years mankind lived just like animals/Then something happened which unleashed the power of our imagination/We learned to talk") and mind-boggling music (filled with soaring concert atmospherics). Favourite tracks include "Cluster One", "Marooned", "A Great Day For Freedom", "Wearing The Inside Out", "Take It Back", "Coming Back To Life", "Lost For Words, "High Hopes"...., erm, in other words, the whole album. Absolutely brilliant!

Ratings: Perfect 10

Boston - Walk On

2011-03-28T08:51:00.000-07:00

Bet'cha thought this lot were dead. Close, but no coconut. The band's last album, "Third Stage", released eight years ago, churned out three hit singles: "Amanda", "Can'tcha Say" and "We're Ready". "Walk On" is the fourth Boston album, recorded in late 1990 after they defeated a lawsuit by their previous label (CBS/Epic). The record took them nearly three years to complete. [Wonder what they live on in between those years?]

Tom Scholz, the 8-ft tall songwriter/musician/producer and studio savant responsible for Boston's celebrated, multi-platinum sound, has a way of making one million guitars sound like two million guitars, which is not completely unpleasant. Following the 1988 Boston tour, Scholz and his design team (which includes guitarist Gary Pihl) designed and built Hideaway Studio II, along with equipment specifically for recording "Walk On", including the Rockman Ultimatum Amplifier and the Smart Gate. Sample "I Need Your Love" and "Magdalene" which are pretty good.

Ratings: 8 out of 10

Joan Jett And The Blackhearts - Flashback

2011-03-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

Ahh... the "Queen of rock 'n' roll" herself! From the opening number, "Hide & Seek", to the last, "Right Till The End", this compilation features extensive guitar struttings (except "Bring It On Home", which is rather mellowed in comparison) as well as some expletives amidst the heavy sound. Besides, there are a few songs that will catch attention, such as "MCA", where the band expressed their unhappiness over certain aspects of their label then, and "Light Of Day", written by Bruce Springsteen for the movie of the same title starring Michael J. Fox.

Fans can also read the sleeve notes to find out how each song came about. Undoubtedly, the best track among the pile must be the thumping "I Love Rock 'N' Roll", which became one of the biggest singles in rock 'n' roll history when it topped the charts in March 1982. Too bad, 1988's sing-along "I Hate Myself For Loving You" is not included, otherwise this collection would have been complete.

Ratings: 8 out of 10

The Mission - Sum And Substance

2011-03-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

The Mission is a swirly gothic guitar group, "risen" from the remnants of even swirlier gothic guitar group, the Sisters Of Mercy, at the end of 1985. The group is "led" by the long-haired, bemouldy-hatted and excessive character, Wayne "I'm not fussy" Hussey, who once described himself as "a true romantic -- and I've got lovely legs." They are rather keen on "revelling"; drummer Mick Brown once fell off a roof at a party and landed on his head on his very expensive motor bike, causing £1,400 worth of damage! Rather revoltingly, the group tours with a bucket at the side of the stage in case they want to be sick!

This collection of greatest hits serves to "remind the public of their pop achievements" and it contains gems like "Wasteland", "Tower Of Strength", "Butterfly On A Wheel" and the remix version of "Like A Child Again".

Ratings: 9.6 out of 10

Arrested Development - Zingalamaduni

2011-03-10T06:49:00.000-08:00

Finger-licking Arrested Development hit the charts two years ago with their own brand of southern fried funk -- like "Mr Wendal", "People Everyday" and "Tennessee". This time round, A.D.'s latest album features, once again, Speech's politically-correct lyrics and Headline's easy delivery. Combine those with some groovy-grooves and you'll have a worthy and accessible follow-up to their Grammy-winning debut. "Zingalamaduni" (Swahili for "beehive of culture") is defined by the group as "a collective effort to stress activism in the realm of culture." Sadly, because of its oft-mouthful lyrics, the whole thing is very difficult to sing along to in the shower. [Moral of the story? Too much good is sometimes hard to swallow (follow).]

Ratings: 5 out of 10 for the lyrics / 3 out of 10 for the music

X'ho - PunkMonkHunk

2011-03-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

X'ho? Doesn't this sound vaguely like some kind of swear word? Whether Chris is a punk, monk or hunk, he sure doesn't have the cow-sense to choose a better name. Maybe he should learn from Prince before adopting a supposedly "marketable" name which is no more than a stupid rhyme. Since "Nite Songs In Day-Glo", the self-confessed fad-lad has undergone numerous transitions. Now he's back with an album that has no heavy guitars or industrial mayhem, just a lot of techno-pop, Zouk-friendly rave fodder for the irreverent. Too bad, the songs sound too polished (with materials gathered and honed over too long a time probably), which explains the half-dozen alternative mixes here. A case of too much style eclipsing the soul.

Ratings: 4 out of 10

Spin Doctors - Turn It Upside Down

2011-03-08T06:45:00.000-08:00

The Spin Doctors, whose 1991 debut release "Pocket Full Of Kryptonite" has proved to be harder than Superman himself (the album sold more than 5.5 million copies worldwide and lingered so long on the Billboard charts that "Two Princes" became radio's number one rock single of 1993), is back in the limelight with what guitarist Eric Schenkman called "our second-and-a-half album". Boastful words aside, "Turn It Upside Down" seems to confirm the nagging suspicion that the group lacks the spark as befits their monster-hit artiste status.

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Blur - Parklife

2011-03-07T09:42:00.000-08:00

Let's make this clear: Blur is not a group of confused people gathering together to pronounce some incoherent, muddy-minded utterings. Following on the heels of 1993's acclaimed "Modern Life Is Rubbish" album, "Parklife" is the London quartet's trove of buried treasures -- its sheer brilliance will definitely teach those upstart Americans a thing or two about subtlety, imagination, intelligence and pop-craft. It's clear Blur is not content simply to smash away on their guitars and drums in imagined angst (like Lemonheads, Stone Temple Pilots, Nirvana, ...the lot). The cheeky opening track, "Girls & Boys", epitomises their approach to take the time and effort to fill up the gaps with varied instrumentation and sounds creating a unique nuance.

The "Blur sound" resembles bits of The Crowded House and The Smith, which make this a pretty interesting combination to listen to. Just sample the very clever, merry-go-round music for "The Debt Collector", or the riveting guitars on "Trouble In The Message Centre" and "This Is A Low". Fab!

Ratings: 8 out of 10

Sentimental Hits 2

2011-03-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

The good thing about compilations such as this is that they save you loads of money. Loads, if you're one who buys an album for a particular single that you like. However, due to the very "rojak" nature of a typical collection, you'll sometimes find yourself having to endure (or at least skip) through certain songs by artistes you despise utterly. [Lesson 1: Good things don't come cheap.] [Lesson 2: If it sounds too good to be true, it sounds too good to be true!]

Fortunately this time round, most of the tracks listed are pleasing to the ear. The average music lover should be familiar with quite a few numbers ("Almost Unreal", "Nothing But The Radio On", "Hold On To The Night", etc.), but personally, I'll recommend "Human" by Human League and "Something's Gotten Hold Of My Heart" by Marc Almond & Gene Pitney.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

The Blue Aeroplanes - Life Model

2011-03-05T06:58:00.000-08:00

Described as "too arty for some, too rowdy for others", Britain's most wilfully unpredictable band, The Blue Aeroplanes, has blazed a wanton wildfire trail through nearly a decade of beatnik brouhaha and mercurial mayhem to bring us a collection of poems and songs known as "Life Model". Featured on this album are impressive guitar fiddlings (soaring at times to noise level) and quite a few story-telling, monologue-ish tracks, most notably "Ghost-Nets" and "Daughter Movie".

Essentially, the Aeroplanes are a combination of the sound of Prefab Sprout and the drama of The Dream Academy, spiced with lead vocals Gerard Langley's earthly observations and simple twists of fate. Though the majority of the songs tend to be a bit mind-boggling, the casual listener may seek solace in "Frightened At Night" and "Fragile".

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Soundgarden - Superunknown

2011-03-04T06:56:00.000-08:00

Okay, the influence of Black Sabbath is clearly evident here. Some tracks (such as "Limo Wreck") sound suspiciously like rip-offs from Black Sabbath's early hits (with extremely heavy bass, naturally). Occasionally, a piece of good writing emerges ("Mr. Full, Mr. Have kills Mr. Empty Hand") but the rest are relatively tame affairs. Nevertheless, "Superunknown" blew out of the box and straight into the no. 1 position on Billboard magazine's sales charts the first week out to become the only A&M artiste to debut at no. 1 since Soundscan came into play. It's no wonder the late Kurt Cobain cited Soundgarden's first two Sub Pop EPs as the reason Nirvana originally signed with the label. All these prove that this is no ordinary Garden -- only if you love to scream and shout [?], whine and grind [??], thrash and Slash. Favourite tracks are "Fell On Black Days" and "Like Suicide".

Ratings: 6 out of 10

2 Unlimited - Real Things

2011-03-03T06:54:00.000-08:00

This album showcases every conceivable disco realm. Like it or not, it's probably going to be big on the dance floor. The music isn't nice actually because it is "2 Unlimited" to a particular beat. After a while, the whole thing gets really boring and monotonous (a bit like listening to a Modern Talking album). Pass.

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Van Morrison - A Night In San Francisco

2011-03-02T06:53:00.000-08:00

His periods of exile, both commercial and artistic, have often been self-imposed. Now Van Morrison re-emerges with album number.... twentysomething, a double-cassette/CD compilation recorded live at the Masonic Auditorium in San Francisco. Throughout the album's concert-like flow, Morrison adds a vital jazz fluency to his cosmic rhythm and blues, and wields his voice like a bebop saxophone, scaling the heights of ecstasy and moaning the low-down blues with equally stunning effect. While many of his Sixties peers merely resell the past, Van Morrison constantly rethinks his roots. All that desert island time paid off, apparently.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Beastie Boys - Ill Communication

2011-03-01T06:51:00.000-08:00

Rap.... rap is a load of crap. [Repeat 20x] What rubbish this is! Definitely not my cup of tea. These beastly little boys never seem to grow up. Now they're engaged in an "Ill Communication" (aptly titled, as one won't be able to hear what they're harping about) that will make you sick. Crap.

Ratings: -1

Deep Forest

2011-02-28T07:30:00.000-08:00

An album that features an unusual blend of hi-tech ambient dance music of modern Europe and the haunting voices of the pygmies of the Central African rainforest. Most of the tracks here could be quite a hit on the dance floor, and many listeners are already hooked to the enchanting "Sweet Lullaby", which enjoyed a lot of airplay on local radio stations. The ambient mix of this song (included here) sounds remarkably "live".

The marriage of these compelling and fascinating chants and the modern, danceable music of Europe make the pygmies and their music very ENIGMA-tic. Recommended.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Gloryland

2011-02-27T02:00:00.000-08:00

It's a pity that Italy didn't win the 1994 World Cup because they've shown so much character, winning two of their matches when they're down to ten men. It's also a pretty good idea to add this album to your collection of memorabilia. "Gloryland" is a compilation which features Tears For Fears, Scorpions, Daryl Hall and Sounds of Blackness, amongst others in its line-up. Many artistes donated new material to the project while some prepared special versions of "classic" hits. The most outstanding tracks are "This Is The Moment" by Moody Blues, "Blaze Of Glory" by Jon Bon Jovi, "We Are The Champion" by Queen, and "The Best" by Tina Turner.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Hole - Live Through This

2011-02-26T01:58:00.000-08:00

Lead singer Courtney Love lost husband, Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, to suicide shortly after this album's release. The scarred beauty queen of underground rock society, Love has been labelled everything from junkie mom to no-talent whore. At the blonde fringe of hard girlism, Love's corrosive, lunatic wail and no-nonsense style is probably her own worst nightmare. She can't sing and the guitar's as rough as Jimmy Saville cigar. This live recording serves to confirm Hole's decline into the dumper of obscurity.

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Carole King - In Concert

2011-02-25T01:56:00.000-08:00

The bio that came along with this release contains an overwhelmingly embarrassing and laughable grammatical errors ["for example such as"]. Fortunately the same cannot be said of the album, which is superbly recorded in the original sequence as witnessed by the concertgoers.

Carole King, renowned for her songwriting capabilities, is perhaps the most underrated female singer of the decade. After almost 30 years in the music business, Carole is enjoying a renaissance of sorts. Joined by Slash (lead guitar on "Hold Out For Love" and "Locomotion") and David Crosby and Graham Nash (guest vocalists on the reprise of "You've Got A Friend"), this is one of the most engaging live recording in recent memory. Listen out to the enthusiastic audience response and the quintessential song for lovers, "Will You Love Me Tomorrow".

Ratings: 8 out of 10

Motley Crue - Til Death Do Us Apart

2011-02-24T01:55:00.000-08:00

Motley Crue are best known for their sexist-type shenanigans on such rampant HM "rockers" as "Girls, Girls, Girls". With band members that mutter four-letter word as part of their everyday speech, the Crue are certainly not for the faint-hearted. The CD version of this album is issued with two different coloured logos -- one red and one yellow. It's not a ploy to get folks to buy both; this way, if you need to buy a new copy, at least you can get one with new artwork. Of course, if you're not a fan, you won't need to buy any. After all, the only track worth listening is "Driftaway".

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Basia - The Sweetest Illusion

2011-02-23T01:53:00.000-08:00

The Polish Anglophile with a penchant for Brazilian rhythm has returned with her third album titled "The Sweetest Illusion". Raised in Jaworzno in the industrial province of Galicia in Poland but an adopted Brit. these last dozen years, Basia has spent some time, since we last heard her, "rediscovering her childhood". [Shit! That same old crap.] It's no wonder the music here sounds terribly out-dated. Altogether an unconvincing effort.

Ratings: 1 out of 10

Traffic - Far From Home

2011-02-22T01:52:00.000-08:00

After 20 years of individual projects and albums, Traffic are "back in the high life again". Founder members Steve Winwood and Jim Capaldi regrouped last year to record this album entirely in a cottage on the Irish coast. But judging by the rate they are playing, this "traffic" ain't gonna cause any congestion on the charts. Sad to say, they're probably still "far from home".

Ratings: 4 out of 10

Mutha's Day Out - My Soul Is Wet

2011-02-21T01:49:00.000-08:00

This band hails from Batesville, Arkansas, where the population is barely 9000. There is only one high school, MTV is banned by religious town leaders and there is no radio station to be found that plays rock. Country music and evangelical Christianity are the dominant forces in the town. Those interested in rock are forced to literally scrounge for new records, spread the word among their friends, and chase harder than most to pursue their dream of playing rock 'n' roll. It seems, therefore, almost a paradox that a street-wise, rock-rap core band would emerge from there.

The music of Mutha's Day Out is a reaction to their personal oppression by religion, country music and the rigidness of their surroundings. One of the subjects they tackle is religion, as vocalist Mikal Moore deals with being raised as the son of a Pentecostal minister while he now fronts a rock band. In "We All Bleed Red", they begin by singing "Amazing Grace" a cappella and thrashing it with power chords and a very direct message. In all, their music may not be very palatable, but somehow I quite empathize with their situation. Well, it's probably a similar case of you and me against the world. Favourite tracks are "Green" and "Memories Fade".

Ratings: 6 out of 10

The Auteurs - Now I'm A Cowboy

2011-02-20T01:38:00.000-08:00

The Auteurs have really hit the serious pop market, but unlike all the other bands, they do it tongue-in-cheek. "Now I'm A Cowboy" is the first to showcase new recruits James Banbury on cello and drummer Barney Crockford who join The Auteurs stalwarts Luke Haines and Alice Readman. The songs on the album are full of crisply enunciated pessimism and scorn; the vocals are bluesy, the approach confident and the lyrics thoughtful. The best moments are "The Upper Classes" and "New French Girlfriend" which had Haines singing like Nick Laird-Clowes of the Dream Academy. The guitar bits are clever.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

(Super) Dance

2011-02-19T01:36:00.000-08:00

I've said that most EMI compilations are quite good, but this could be the exception. Only three tracks stand out from the pile -- the late Freddie Mercury's "Living On My Own", Duran Duran's "Come Undone" and "Tribal Dance" by True Limited. The rest are typical, mindless dance tunes that, once heard, are immediately forgotten. Buy it at your own risk.

Ratings: 3 out of 10

Club Nouveau - A New Beginning

2011-02-18T07:31:00.001-08:00

Jay King, the original member of Club Nouveau, was formerly the man behind Timex Social Club. (He masterminded their million-selling hit "Rumours".) After the break-up of Timex, King went on to pull together a collection of talented local musicians to form his own band. The songs here are nothing at all like "Lean On Me", which won a Grammy for "Song of the Year" in 1987. And the biggest problem with this album is that they tried too hard to pay too may dues -- just take a look at the "thanks" on the sleeve. Well, maybe it's not a new beginning after all.

Ratings: 3 out of 10

Yazz - One On One

2011-02-17T02:04:00.000-08:00

After she became a mother for the first time with the birth of a daughter, Yazz was separated from her husband, an event that in anyone's life is a matter of private madness. In Yazz's case, because her husband was also her manager, publisher, A&R person and the Managing Director of Big Life Records (to whom she was then signed), the personal trauma became a professional one. To make a completely clean break, she left everything behind her and signed a new record deal. However, it appears that the event has rocked her a bit as this new release is a far cry from her debut, "Wanted". Only the title track is appealing enough.

Ratings: 3 out of 10

The Brian Setzer Orchestra

2011-02-16T07:29:00.000-08:00

Brian Setzer, the singer/guitarist behind Stray Cats, has assembled The Brian Setzer Orchestra, a 17-piece band which includes five saxophones, four trombones, stand-up bass and drums. But don't let the name of this new group fool you -- it's not really the kind of orchestra you might think, except on one song, where Setzer brings in 32 string players. Basically, the music is a blustery mix of big-band sounds, jump blues, rockability and romantic standards. Meaning? A big YAWN!

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Paul Young - Acoustic

2011-02-15T07:28:00.000-08:00

Poor Paul. How he has mellowed! Years ago, he gave us smash hits like "Wherever I Lay My Hat (That's My Home)", "Love Of The Common People", "Everytime You Go Away", et cetera. But now, the man with a reputed sore-throat-like voice has stringed together acoustic versions of a couple of (five, to be precise) his personal favourites and new songs. However, Paul has lost much of his magical touch and this meagre collection is a rather boring affair. I guarantee that after three plays, you'll put this safely into the trash bin for good.

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Beautiful Love Songs 3

2011-02-14T07:41:00.000-08:00

What's Valentine's Day without love songs? It's like celebrating your birthday without the cake. So here we are -- an album of smoochy numbers that'll melt hearts (supposedly). EMI's compilations have always been a good buy. This, too, doesn't fail to impress. Unfortunately, the lyrics printed within the sleeve are flawed -- follow them and you'll be making a "big mistake" (so says Arnold -- Schwarzenegger that is).

Minor hitches aside, the selection here is pretty good I'd say. There are smash hits like "Endless Summer Nights", "How Can I Fall?", and personal favourites such as "Don't Dream It's Over" and Flying Pickets' a cappella "Only You". And there's also "Nothing Compares 2 U" by Shithead O'Connor. (Are you sure about this one?)

Some music lovers may be slightly disappointed with Tony Hadley's acoustic version of "Through The Barricades" (a song by Spandau Ballet, the group which, incidentally, Hadley fronted) and the new edition of New Edition's "Tender Love". Nevertheless, Heart's "All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You" will definitely appeal to R(A) fans with its implicit lyrics about extra-marital affair. Highly recommended.

Ratings: 8 out of 10

Alison Moyet - Essex

2011-02-13T07:26:00.000-08:00

Alison Moyet (or is she still called "Alf"?) is, of course, the proud owner of a superb voice that can break down doors at a range of 30 feet. She has always been, and still is, a promising singer since she partnered with fellow Basildon denizen Vince Clarke in 1981. After numerous ups and downs in her career, Alison has finally produced some materials to show off her vocal prowess. This she displayed impressively on "Satellite" and "Dorothy", a fiddle-laden Celtic waltz with strong Beatles-esque folk flavour.

Of particular interest is her cover of the Jules Shear song "Whispering Your Name" (the first single off the album), which approaches the infectious level of Yazoo's past hits. The international CD maxi includes a mix of the track by Vince Clarke, which marks the first collaboration between Moyet and the Erasure man since the break up of Yazoo ten years ago.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Bonus

2011-02-12T07:22:00.000-08:00

Bananas on a clothes hanger? If there's anything symbolic about the covers, I must've missed the point. The only thing I'm quite certain about this double CDs compilation is that they won't make you go bananas. This is not to say that it isn't any good. The 27 tracks on this collection cover country, rock, pop, funk, dance and blues with a smattering of heavy metal, so it's impossible to pin them down. Too many musical styles could leave you cross-eyed, but it's well worth a listen if you're a schizo who likes your music very varied.

Overall, it's the veterans who impress. Newcomers, with the possible exception of Kit Chan, need to polish up their act before they seriously consider putting out another song. Deanna's "Thank You For Being A Friend" has the back-up vocals singing as much as she did, which is a shame really, because she's the one who got all the credit.

Standout tracks are "Somewhere" by Kit Chan, "Changes" by Radio Active, "Jane" by Kick! (naturally) and "Take Me In" by The Black Sun. The two "Bonus" albums are each sold separately [batteries not included!?], so you can leave the blue one behind.

Ratings: 4 out of 10 (the blue album)/6 out of 10 (the red album)

Bonnie Raitt - Longing In Their Hearts

2011-02-11T09:40:00.000-08:00

"Longing In Their Hearts" features five new Bonnie Raitt compositions and seven originals from the pens of Richard Thompson, Irish singer-songwriter Paul Brady, Tom Snow (offering the album's first single, "Love Sneaking Up On You"), Memphis soul wizard Teenie Hodges and other skillful song-smith. Before going back into the studio to record "Longing", Raitt guested on several other projects: singing "Love Letters" with Elton John on his "Duets" release; "Natural Woman" with Aretha Franklin and Gloria Estefan from Franklin's TV Special and Greatest Hits collection; "Gettin' Over You" on Willie Nelson's classic "Across The Borderline"; and singing on albums by her friends Marc Cohn and Bruce Hornsby.

Like veteran performer Carole King, Raitt has come a long way, with 23 years of recording history behind her. Despite her credentials, the songs on this album are too mellow to make one's heart miss a beat. Or put simply, there's nothing much spectacular here -- the most outstanding tracks being "You" and "Cool, Clear Water". Still, if you don't mind a comforting voice that resembles Kim Carnes or Juice Newton, this album may be for you.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

The Party - The Party's Over... Thanks For Coming

2011-02-10T09:38:00.000-08:00

The most entertaining part of "The Party's Over..." has to be the endless stream of credits on the sleeve. Each member of the group (Dee Dee, Tiffini, Albert and Chase) whips through a rather long-winded list of "thanks" that includes pet dogs, Miss Marlene (Albert's 7th grade teacher), Chuck Hull ("How's your back?"), Rick Scott ("thanks for the cruise"), Chase's funk box ("all I need to rule the world") and several hundred more (finishing, you'll be fascinated to learn, with "the Almighty great Spirit").

Surprisingly, considering the time it must have taken them to write out all these names (let alone meet them all -- quite impossible as some of those mentioned are goners), they have also managed to record some quite good songs as well. There are two sorts really -- either the swishy pop or some harder, sparser dance music. Overall, it's a nice record to party with. Personal favourites are the brilliant ballad "Let's Hold On To What We Got" and the groovy "I Wish You Peace".

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Andraé Crouch - Mercy

2011-02-09T09:37:00.000-08:00

Gospel legend Andraé Crouch has worked with a cavalcade of superstars, including Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Madonna, Diana Ross, Elton John, Rick Astley and Vanessa Williams. His new album comes nearly a decade after his last critically-acclaimed solo release, "No Time To Lose". "Mercy" is a tremendous personal accomplishment for Andraé, who has had to overcome the loss of both his mother and father within the two years prior to the album's completion.

Prejudice aside, if you only listen to the music, the songs sound pretty okay. Sure, he's got a helluva voice, but then....

Ratings: 4 out of 10

All-4-One

2011-02-08T09:34:00.000-08:00

Jamie Jones, Delious, Tony Borowiak and Alfred Nevarez -- the four Southern Californians who make up All-4-One -- are a versatile quartet which fuses elements of R&B, doo-wop, and jazz into a style of their own. The group showcases flawless harmonizing and innate dynamics on their self-titled debut album which includes the hit single, "So Much In Love".

A cappella is but one of the quartet's many strengths. All-4-One have already proved that they can invent rather splendid pop tunes and "cut it" in the "live experience". When it comes to making albums that are good all the way through, however, they have never been that much cop.

Brilliant vocals but absolutely zero in substance: easy on the ears and needs no working of the brain. In other words, a BIG yawn. I'll only recommend "A Better Man" to you.

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Regine - Listen Without Prejudice

2011-02-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

Regine was born on April 22, 1970, in her mother's home province of Leyte in central Philippines. She is the eldest child in a brood of five, including a pair of twins. Her mother was active in choral training and her father, a frustrated singer, used to take her to the beach and make her sing while the waves rushed against the mid-section of her body. The result of this unorthodox training was a slender, five-foot-five Filipino teenager with the neck of a swan and the ability to belt out a song like a seasoned pro.

The voice is why Polygram's Asian A&R guru Alex Chan took a chance with Regine. Chan masterminded the singer's first international album, "Listen Without Prejudice", and hopes to prove that Asian artistes can sing in English and succeed. He's stacked the deck with a lead-off duet between Regine and one of the four "Heavenly Kings", Jacky Cheung, on "In Love With You". Their soaring harmonies will likely remind listeners of Aladdin's "A Whole New World" and the voice of female singer Lea Salonga, who's also from the Philippines.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Collin Raye - Extremes

2011-02-06T08:08:00.000-08:00

A somewhat subdued album, apart from the debut single, "That's My Story", that is full of bluesy guitar noodlings which chug modestly along in a moderately tuneful and tasteful rock & roll way. Despite the fact that quality-wise, the songs on Raye's third album are on par with the quality of his voice, it is obvious that Raye was put on this earth to sing ballads. Those who have heard his brilliant, heart-tugging rendition of "Love, Me" will definitely agree with me.

On "Extremes", most of the songs tread well-worn paths -- love, travelling and the state of things in general. Altogether, this is solid, melodic and distinctly old-fashioned country stuff but quite well done of its kind. Guaranteed it won't upset your neighbours.

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Technotronic - The Greatest Hits

2011-02-05T08:06:00.000-08:00

"In 1989 the music industry -- the ultimate barometer of delicious falsehoods and hideous truths alike -- began to experience a new and unsettling sensation.... TECHNOTRONIC had arrived, with a vengeance! In that year alone they conquered virtually every chart in the Western hemisphere. Here was an orgasmic, explosive combination of pulsating rhythm and infectious rap, brought together under the attentive eye of producer Jo Bogaert and guided by the wonderfully raunchy, spitting verbal articulations of Ya Kid K. If imitation is the highest form of flattery then Technotronic can rest on their laurels as quite possibly the most imitated, plagiarized formation in modern dance music, but the crown still rests firmly on their heads........Technotronic remains as the last genuine bastion of intelligent dance music, innovative and explosive, mind blowing and unpretentious as ever." -- Martin King, October 1993.

You believe that crap?

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Dance Reggae

2011-02-04T08:04:00.000-08:00

Reggae music has never been my cup of tea; even the mention of UB40 isn't going to cause any overwhelming flow of adrenaline in me. So you could say that this record has ended up in wrong hands. Perhaps. The worst song here is, without a doubt, "Look What She Wants" by Without Control -- a useless and stupid mix of "All That She Wants" and "The Look" [makes me wanna puke]. Surely this album would be better without this filler! If not for the fact that most of the tracks are at least listenable, it would have been thrashed. The other saving grace is Arrested Development's "Mr. Wendal".

Ratings: 5 out of 10

The Proclaimers - Hit The Highway

2011-02-03T08:02:00.000-08:00

"Och", "tam o'shanter", "Celtic", "Rangers". Ah yes! Scotland, home of the Loch Ness monster, Robbie Coltrane, lots of unemployed people, and The Proclaimers. Of these, The Proclaimers (Craig and Charlie Reid, bespectacled twins) are terribly exciting. These two rather similar looking blokes (the only way to tell them apart is that Charlie wears brown-framed glasses and Craig opts for black) come from a place called Auchtermuchty in Fife, Scotland. They were "discovered" by Stan Cullimore of The Housemartins who was so impressed by a tape they sent him that he went on radio begging them to get back in touch!

"Hit The Highway", their third album, appears to be their best effort to date with gems like "These Arms Of Mine", "The Light" and "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" which is taken from the soundtrack of the film "Benny And Joon". If you can make do with their exaggerated accent, you'll realize that though The Proclaimers are no Dexy's, they can grope their way around a half decent tune. As for myself, I'd prefer "Let's Get Married" anytime.

Ratings: 8 out of 10

Björk - Debut

2011-02-02T07:07:00.000-08:00

Remember the wild and wonderful Icelandic group The Sugarcubes, who took the indie scene by storm with their first single, "Birthday", a haunting little number about a batty old bird who kept spiders in her pocket? This rich vein of eccentricity is continued on some of the songs on this debut album by the group's former lead vocal. There are also some tunes that prove that Björk is not just a weirdo: she's capable of producing entertaining and excitingly original pop music. Take for example, her UK hit "Play Dead", which forms part of the soundtrack for the Harvey Keitel movie "The Young Americans", a presumably cautionary tale of Londoners buying into American deathstyles via crack. Björk's breathless, impossibly excited and intoxicated-by-life vocal is transplanted into a rich, opulent setting where it thrives and flourishes.

Another outstanding track is "Like Someone In Love", accompanied only by 80-year-old harpist Corki Hale. This is the kind of tearful ballad you'd expect to find in the sad interlude of some crackly old black-and-white Judy Garland films. Curiously, midway through "Violently Happy", it sounds as if your record/CD player has broken down. If you've ever tapped a foot to The Cure or Sinead O'Connor, you'll definitely like this.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Us3 - Hand On The Torch

2011-02-01T07:05:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder why rappers try so hard to sound cool? Is it becuz they've gut BIG egos, or they kan't sing for nuts? Probably both. Us3, who took their name from an Alfred Lion produced Blue Note date with Horace Parlan -- a soulful Blue Note pianist who is still very much on the scene and playing at the top of his form, predictably give their all trying to sound tough and cool. Sadly, they only sound stupid (at least to me).

Matter of fact, the opening track on this album, "Cantaloop (Flip Fantasia)" came across like they are warbling about pumpkin (or something), and you'll just wonder why they have taken a fancy in this fruit. Maybeee I'm hafing hereen problems. Either that, or they kan't pronounce words properly. If so, preease excuse their bladder (??!). Er... blabber, I mean. Us3? Methinks it's wiser to listen to U2.

Ratings: 3 out of 10

Los Lobos - Just Another Band From East L.A.

2011-01-31T07:03:00.000-08:00

After a long time of playing at "weddings, baptisms and parades" while working in various part-time jobs, Los Lobos had a hit with "La Bamba" (taken off the movie of the same title about Ritchie Valens, who was the first person to have a hit with the song). "La Bamba" is a traditional song that's probably centuries old from the gulf coast region of Mexico. It's like a party dance song where people can just improvise verses that could go on forever. The words basically just mean "come along and dance".

Formed by David Hidalgo and Cesar Rosas in the early '70s, Los Lobos (which means "The Wolves") soon roped in a few other local pals, such as Conrad Lozano. Despite "La Bamba" being their first ever British hit, Los Lobos has been rather famous in America since 1984 when they were voted Best Group by American music magazine Rolling Stones. This double-cassette collection features a good mix of their past and present "hits", including several live tracks and previously unreleased cuts. Although the group's outward appearance may not grab immediate attention, the music they churn out will impress even non-fans. A nicely-packaged compilation that serves as a good gift (except that the picture on the sleeve cover may not be appropriate).

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Bob Dylan - The 30th Anniversary Concert Celebration

2011-01-30T07:01:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Woodie Guthrie, Dylan began writing anthems of change like "Blowin' In The Wind" and "Like A Rolling Stone" that energized a generation of social revolt. However, his intellectual songs may take time and attention to appreciate. Dylan's very odd, through-the-nasal singing, to be frank, is rather annoying (just listen to "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" and you'll know what I mean). But the songs he wrote are beyond criticisms.

Dylan's influence is, understandably, far and wide. That is why a group of big-name artistes, as varied as those who were present at the Live Aid concert, has gathered together for a four-hour show at Madison Square Garden in New York City to honour this mousey-looking fifty-two year old man on the occasion of his 30th anniversary of recording. This double cassette/CD compilation boasts of some riveting performances, such as "I Shall Be Released" by Chrissie Hynde. In movies, they'd call it a star-studded cast. The same can be said about this. Enjoy the atmospherics even if you know nuts about Bob Dylan.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Tori Amos - Under The Pink

2011-01-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

This, being Tori Amos' sophomore album, will most definitely be compared to her first. To be honest, it's not the brilliantly wibblesque piece of pop that her first, "Little Earthquakes", was, but this album has its strengths. For a start, the lyrics are a little less obscure. And she makes use of more percussion. But on the whole, she still strays little from the use of her piano and its various tinkly bits, and her warbling voice (very Kate Bush-ish, though it's rumoured Tori hates the comparison). Notable tracks are "Pretty Good Year" (classic!), and the quirky flaky (a pun!) "Cornflake Girl", and the offbeat "Space Dog". A decent album ackcherloi; she's certainly not quite going down Pop's Beckoning Dumper....

Ratings: 6.5 out of 10

Zhané - Pronounced Jah-Nay

2011-01-28T06:57:00.000-08:00

With the enormous crossover success of their first single, "Hey Mr. D.J.", Zhané is in the spotlight again with their debut album, a collection of songs dating from their days at Temple University to their first collaborations with producer Kay Gee and to those written by the team at the eleventh hour. Despite claims that this "will be one of the most relaxing and peaceful albums in your collection", it seems to me the album has been put together hastily, which explains its lacklustre appeal.

On side B, the girls, Jean and Renée, sometimes sound like a speeded-up version of Sade. There's also their attempt at a ballad, "Love Me Today", which is nice enough, but not really their forté, and there's a couple of "groovy thang" which (as you might suspect) are a wee bit dull. In fact, apart from "Hey Mr. D.J.", the rest are quite simply -- pathetic. After two plays, nothing seems to register in my memory (either my memory is failing me, or there must be something wrong with this record). This is boring stuff. I'll pass.

Ratings: Jee-roh

Tommy Emmanuel - The Journey

2011-01-27T06:56:00.000-08:00

"I don't want to be the fastest guitar in the West, riding off into the sunset. I try to come up with songs and performances that I hope will stand the test of time." That's what Tommy Emmanuel says he wants to do. This notwithstanding, Emmanuel, as a guitarist, is in a class of his own. After 33 years of playing the circuit and studio sessions, Emmanuel has acquired a touch of precision and passion when strutting his stuff (so to speak), something you don't see very often in musicians these days.

This twelve-track instrumental album is an intriguing journey into various styles with obvious jazz leanings and phrasings. You can spend hour upon blissful hour finding other highlights. Suffice to say anyone who has performed a series of concerts with a symphony orchestra can't possibly be bad, can he?

Ratings: 8 out of 10

All Men Are Brothers: A Tribute To Curtis Mayfield

2011-01-26T06:53:00.000-08:00

Wheelchair-bound Curtis Mayfield, former lead singer, songwriter and producer of the '60s group Impressions, charmed audiences with his impassioned soul, R&B and dance music, while his lyrics tackled issues that still resonate today: war, racism, injustice and the brotherhood of man. His career came to a tragic end in 1990 when a sudden gust of wind at a concert in Brooklyn, New York, toppled a lighting rig and hit him in the back, leaving him totally paralyzed.

Now, an all-star line-up pays tribute to the veteran performer in this album which contains 17 of his best-known songs. The concept behind "All Men Are Brothers" was simple: artistes' and producers' royalties would be paid directly to the man who made it all possible. However, Curtis will donate a portion of his proceeds to the Miami Project, an organization that, while unable to help Curtis' own condition, is doing pioneering work in the field of spinal injury.

The trouble is: tributes like this one just go to show how good other people were. But then again, it's for a good cause, so go ahead and buy it. Personal favourites include Lenny Kravitz's "Billy Jack", the unplugged version of "People Get Ready" by Rod Stewart, and the best among all, "I've Been Trying" by Phil Collins.

Ratings: 8 out of 10

David Lee Roth - Your Filthy Little Mouth

2011-01-25T23:13:00.000-08:00

The old ex-Van Halen lead singer with the unsavoury hair is now a full-fledged solo artiste, producing "though-provoking" rock stuff for the radio audience of the US of A. Heavy metal bands like Van Halen are apt to come over all moody and mellow from time to time when they get a bit puffed out from all that trouser-wriggling, poking their geetars down one another's bootees, etc. So here we find David going solemn with an autobiographical record which contains some of his personal reflections (ahem! ahem!). What a feat!

Much of his "reflections" don't make sense to me though. Wrote David: "Passion in lovemaking is probably.... I've finally figured out what sex is... it's pure communication through plumbing. If you don't have anything to talk about, well you're not going to score as high on the judge's card." Well, Dave, if you don't have anything good to write about, go make love. Still, if you yearn for a bit of old-fashioned rock and roll, this is the thing for you.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Lisette Melendez - True To Life

2011-01-24T23:12:00.000-08:00

I suppose if you listen to this album without taking a look at the sleeve cover, you can be forgiven for thinking that this is yet another Janet Jackson or Paula Abdul record (sigh). Admittedly, it's very much in the same vein, except that it's not as boring (phew). Side A consists of rather predictable R&B dance tunes; only the opening track, the romantic "Will You Ever Save Me" and the catchy first single "Goody Goody" (which enjoyed quite a bit of airplay not too long ago) stand out from the rest. Turn it over and the sound has a more pleasing Euro-disco flavour with a groovy bass.

"True To Life" is a surprisingly gutsy affair, with some fine pop tunes slithered around by Melendez's silky tones. Personal favourite, apart from those mentioned, is "My Warning (Take This Love And Run)". Interestingly, quite a few songs on this album are plagued by a repetitious bug, e.g. "Goody Goody", "Love Me Need Me", "On Again Off Again", and "I Know That You Know". Aaargh!

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Alice In Chains - Jar Of Flies

2011-01-23T23:10:00.000-08:00

Bleugusting screecharoonies! This album is rather noisy and very boring too. The fact that Alice In Chains is from Seattle and in the right place at the right time as Nirvana doesn't mean they won't give trash. Amongst the crashing blur of seven monstrous rackets about "Rotten Apple", "Nutshell" and "Whale & Wasp" is the jazzy "Swing On This" which will have fans slow-dancing in the mosh pit. Too bad such effort is eventually spoilt by the savage bursts of soaraway guitar breaks which seem to go on for centuries. Harder than Bon Jovi yet more glamorous than Motörhead, Alice In Chain certainly knows how to turn out the type of racket which may yet inspire you to pick up that invisible guitar and strut your stuff. But the fact is, I prefer the violin.

Ratings: 3 out of 10

Haddaway - The Album (2nd Edition)

2011-01-22T23:09:00.000-08:00

Two versions of the hit single "What Is Love" can be found here. This foot-friendly dance track is stonking dance-floor stuff, although at the end of both versions (personally prefer the album version over the Rapino-Brothers Mix), you won't find out what love is. That doesn't mean you'll be disappointed. At least the majority of songs on this 2nd edition aren't nearly so annoyingly repetitive as most other dance tunes.

Similarly, there are two versions of "Life" (Radio Edit and Album Re-mix, none of which are much cop anyway), but it is "I Miss You", "Mama's House" and "Tell Me Where It Hurts" that prove to be the more memorable ones. These three are in a class of their own; the other eleven tracks (except "What Is Love") being far less exciting.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Richard Marx - Paid Vacation

2011-01-21T23:06:00.000-08:00

"For the first time in my career, I made a conscious effort to keep the songs on this album more consistent with one another," Richard Marx said. Sadly, the only consistent thing about "Paid Vacation" is its inconsistency. This album proved beyond any reasonable doubts that he had better stick to his ballad renditions.

Marx, who recorded his first vocals at the tender age of five, thanks to his father, a popular jazz pianist and top jingle writer and producer, tackles serious issues on "Paid Vacation". The self-proclaimed "dinosaur" has used his public profile to play for and contribute to a number of causes, including Farm Aid, The Pediatric AIDS benefit, Children of the Night, American Cancer Society, Americans for Non-Smokers' Rights, and as an active opponent of the Ohio Toxic Incinerator, so his new "direction" will come as no surprise to fans. The only surprise is probably the mediocrity of a great majority of the tracks found here.

Nonetheless, a few tracks still stand out, including the ballad (and first single) "Now And Forever", "Nothing Left Behind Us" and "One Man", carried over from the "Rush Street" album.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Remix Singles - Best Sellers 3

2011-01-20T23:03:00.000-08:00

Oh dear. We are a bit divided on this one. According to some, it's full of terrifically boring disco songs by people with an annoying out-of-tune squeal. According to the rest, it's simply the swirliest, most infectious dance album there's been for ages. Personally, I think the three hits singles on it -- "Ditty" (Ditty Club Mix) by Paperboy, "Looking Through Patient Eyes" (Extended Mix) by P.M. Dawn, and the unbelievably topping "Regret" (New Order Mix) by New Order -- are exceedingly wonderful disco totterers. And "Crazy For You" by Let Loose, "Hearts On Fire" by Noel, and "Perfume Paranoia" by Kamarad featuring Cheryl Lucas & Zolic are in the same vein and almost as good. Only "Shout (It Out)" by Louchie Lou & Michie One is a bit snoozesome and old-fashioned. Of course, East 17's lifeless cover of the Pet Shop Boys' "West End Girls" is also a minus point.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Hey Mr. D.J. - The 4th Compilation

2011-01-19T23:00:00.000-08:00

This 4th compilation of hit club smashes, from established artistes like Gloria Estefan ("Dr. Beat") to new talents like Prince Of House ("Get It Started") and Denetria Champ ("I've Had Enough"), is funkier and harder than most dance albums currently available. There's lots of grunting and funk rhythms with a very spookified bass bouncing around in the background, making it all not too appetizing for some people.

Basically, this is a formula disco/dance album with choruses repeated endlessly but with none of the zip of the last compilation. The flip side is such a bore, except "Next Time (I Promise)" by Flame, I almost didn't pull through it.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Remedy

2011-01-18T19:18:00.000-08:00

Their story is one of those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities made good that millions dream about: band wins local contest; band's demo tape ends up on radio stations across the country and climbs the national singles charts; band lands record contract.... [band gets ignored; band splits up; band becomes history.....]

Remedy is Sean Alaura, Darryl Sherman and Jesse Aguirre who are all in their early 20s. As much a part of the band as their harmonious vocal delivery and hook-laden songs is Remedy's diverse ethnic mix: Sherman is African-American, Alaura is Hawaiian while Aguirre is Latino. Says Alaura: "Remedy is...... about partying with your neighbour, no matter if they're white, black, red or blue." [What? Blue??!] This self-titled debut album contains catchy, light-hearted R&B/pop-flavoured songs about love and relationship [what's new?] and each member contributes lead and backing vocals to the ten tracks. Curiously, the trio sounds like Boyz II Men and New Edition rolled into one. Hmmm.... a bunch of copy cats? Perhaps I should give them the benefit of doubt.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Elvis Costello - Brutal Youth

2011-01-17T19:17:00.000-08:00

Over 18 albums in as many years, Elvis Costello takes a new turn at every corner, and always manages to refashion rock & roll into his own creation. Now, the English singer-songwriter-guitarist is back performing with longtime partners Pete Thomas, Steve Nieve, Bruce Thomas and Nick Lowe in his new offering, titled "Brutal Youth". Produced by Mitchell Froom, who worked with Costello on "Mighty Like A Rose", Costello plays all guitar on the album, as well as being featured on bass and keyboards.

Costello's music may not have mass appeal locally, but this album is actually pretty good, judging by the number of nice tracks scattered over the "15 songs of emotional intelligence and challenging compositions" (or so claims the record company). Most of them will take a bit of playing to sink in, but "This Is Hell" is heavenly -- it harks back to the Beatles' era of good-old-fashioned rock & roll. Other "listenable" tracks include "Kinder Murder", "You Tripped At Every Step" and the story-telling "London's Brilliant Parade".

Ratings: 6 out of 10

NKOTB - Face The Music

2011-01-16T19:15:00.000-08:00

New Kids On The Block are five blokes who dance, sing, break and rap together while thousands of mostly pre- and early pubescents trip over their own ecstasy. There is a little debate about exactly how "live" the New Kids show is (is it real, or is it lip-synched?), and quite a bit more about how slickly the New Kids have been packaged and sold. Their new album, "Face The Music", is packed with just the kind of jiggly, singalong tunes you'd expect from these candy floss of pop, i.e. they're all very lightweight. To be frank, the album could be the worst piece of pop drivel ever produced and it leaves me in no doubt they'll be "facing the music" (literally) soon. This band's a bit of a fraud and no mistake.

Ratings: Zero

Angelique Kidjo - Ayé

2011-01-15T23:15:00.000-08:00

"In the country of Fons, legend says that at life's beginning (Ayé) the snake Dan and his wife came down to earth to create the world. After 41 days of toil the couple returned to the heavens tenderly entwined in the form of a rainbow (Aido Houedo). Ever since, anyone upon whom Dan the snake wishes to bestow his favours is irresistibly drawn to the spot where the rainbow touches the ground. Here there is a deep cave filled with treasures, gold and precious stones......" -- so goes the notes on the sleeve for this album. Hmmmm... how interesting.

Angelique Kidjo is the African funk diva of world music. An infectious performer and strident vocalist, Kidjo melds African tradition with Western technology and instrumentation to create a unique and invigorating music. The problem is, you won't know nuts about what's she harping about (without referring to the lyrics) as she sings in her native language rather than English, although it's mentioned in the press release that the songs "touch on such topics as race, environment, homelessness and the need to integrate, in an earnest and sincere way". Yeah.... tell me about it!

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Right Said Fred - Sex And Travel

2011-01-14T23:14:00.000-08:00

Unless you've been living under a rock for the last few months, you'll already know exactly what most of Right Said Fred's new album, "Sex And Travel", sounds like -- the same straightforward, deliriously catchy dance music as their first three hits. Produced by former Fine Young Cannibals' producer Robin Goodfellow, this album delivers a more cutting dance edge over a very sophisticated and lush backdrop that will leave the record-buying public in no doubt of the trio's musical abilities.

Singer Richard's voice commands respect, from the pleading soulfulness of "Back To You" to the uptempo "We Live A Life". The songwriting lacks consistency, but if "I'm Too Sexy" tickled your fancy, then you'll not be disappointed with what's on offer here.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

D:REAM - D:REAM On Vol 1

2011-01-13T23:12:00.000-08:00

If you think that "U R The Best Thing" and "Things Can Only Get Better" are two of the naffest, most useless disco songs ever made and that people should only be allowed to listen to things as "meaningful" as U2, then you'll find D:REAM's debut album, "D:REAM On" -- ten songs all roughly in the same vein (i.e. very Euro-disco) -- utterly unbearable. If, however, you like wonderfully tacky, totally unpretentious dance music where little catchy snippets of tunes and electronic drums a-clinking and a-clattering are more important than anything else in the world, then you'll simply recognize "D:REAM On" as a "masterpiece" of sorts. Recommended tracks are the instrumental (well, more or less) "Glorious", "Picture My World" and "Stars".

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Michael Learns To Rock - Colours

2011-01-12T23:10:00.000-08:00

Danish band Michael Learns To Rock is four friends who met in an orchestra -- Jascha Richter (lead vocal/keyboard), Søren Madsen (bass), Mikkel Lentz (guitar) and Kåre Wanscher (drums). The quartet made its debut at the event "Dansk Rock Grand Prix" that took place in Århus in May 1988. After release of their second single and video, "The Actor", Michael Learns To Rock suddenly became a household word. "The Actor" topped the charts in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines and it was also released in USA, Canada, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Finland and several South American countries.

At home in Denmark, the group had reached stardom at express haste, becoming one of the main attractions at the "Green Concert", Denmark's biggest mobile festival. This follow-up has plenty more hits and there are lots of good subtle touches tucked away among the ballads, disco synths, feathery string arrangements -- a blissfully creative relief from all those heavy macho guitars. Overall, the album is very good and would be equally rewarding on the dancefloor, in the Walkman, or at home with your loved one. Personal favourites are "Complicated Heart, "25 Minutes" (very Chicago-style) and "Out Of The Blue".

Ratings: 8 out of 10

Bob James - Restless

2011-01-11T23:42:00.000-08:00

This album conjures up images of going to different exotic places and that's where the restlessness comes in -- each piece has its very different locale, geographically, musically, emotionally. However, all the pieces have a continuity that gives one a feeling of wanderlust.

It's been four long years since Bob James delivered a solo project and as always, he mixes metaphors, creating an album replete with tropical sensuality, European elegance, American ingenuity and a world of colour. Bob's daughter, Hilary, makes an impressive guest vocals on "Storm Warning" -- an emotionally charged rendition which Bob will be justifiably proud. Overall, the music on this release has a very romantic feeling. Favourite tracks are "Lotus Leaves" and "Kissing Cross".

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Queen Latifah - Black Reign

2011-01-10T23:41:00.000-08:00

Never let it be said that Queen Latifah is dull. Why, there are as many as two interesting things about this album. (1) On "Track 4", she sings "When it comes to making sense of confusion I'm a vet" -- I think this could be humour but I couldn't swear to it. (2) "You Don't Need To Be A Superstar" contains the word "irrelevant" which has no less than four syllables!!! If Queen Latifah (or Dana Owens as she is known at birth) keeps up this rate of improvement, she may make a halfway decent album before the century is out.

Ratings: 3 out of 10

Funky Poets - True To Life

2011-01-09T23:35:00.000-08:00

Funky Poets are four young chaps named Gene Johnson Ashe, Paul Frazier, Ray-Ray Frazier and Christian Jordan. The Poets' sound (four-part harmony from falsetto to bass) has been influenced by many bands and vocal groups from the past and present. While "Lessons Learned" (easily the best track off this debut) will remind one of arrangements made famous by Earth, Wind & Fire; the vocal styling of "Never Say Never" will conjure up images of Boyz II Men and Shai. Combining these with the falsetto memories of the Stylistics, and you'll have the nineties style of R&B that's distinctly....er, poetic. Just an afterthought, this group appears to be the male version of Funky Divas.

Ratings: 5 out of 10

K7 - Swing Batta Swing

2011-01-08T23:32:00.000-08:00

This album is worth checking out for some "funkin'" good sampling and soul-lifting rap. From the vaguely suggestive first single "Come Baby Come", to the reggae-styled "I Love To Turn You On", you'll hear K7 grunting along in his gruff-voiced way. The singer, a twentysomething favourite son of Manhattan's barrio, gets the "K" of his initials from his real name Kayel, and the "7" represents the number of years it has taken to get to this point of his musical career. [Phew... two more years and he would have been a K9!] Altogether, this album proves that K7's very individual style of rap writing will plonk him right up there on top.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Motörhead - Bastards

2011-01-07T23:27:00.000-08:00

Song titles are often a good guide to the nature of a heavy metal album, so ponder if you will on these: "Death Or Glory", "Born To Raise Hell", "Liar", "Devils", et cetera. Do you get the impression that Motörhead are perhaps taking the mickey? Well, they've certainly bunged in every heavy metal cliché you could think of -- daft lyrics, crunching "powerchords", anthemic choruses -- the lot. But "funnily" enough, apart from some miserable tracks which are too hard to digest, this is not half bad at all [it is not half good either]. "Bastards" is apt and destined to remain so.

Ratings: Shit!

The Cranberries - Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can't We

2011-01-06T23:22:00.000-08:00

The Cranberries are a group of young persons from Ireland and this, their first ever album, is actually.... quite good! And considering their lead singer, Dolores O'Riordan, sounds like the most depressing being who ever lived, it's positively astounding. Although unlikely to be the next big thing, The Cranberries appear to be more than just one-hit wonder. Strangely, their musical style comes through as a cross between Cocteau Twins and The Smiths. Dolores' lazy but haunting, Suzanne Vega-like vocals may not sound great to many people, but at least it has a certain charm, if you bother to listen closely.

Ratings: 8 out of 10

Lisa Keith - Walkin' In The Sun

2011-01-05T08:56:00.000-08:00

Yet another small-minded record, made on a big scale. This is a fairly unspectacular collection of slow smoochy ballads with the odd pacier number thrown in just to make sure the listener doesn't go to sleep. There's no doubt that Lisa can sing extremely well, trouble is that most of the lyrics are so mundane and monotonous that the album is no more than a pleasant slice of lightweight soulified pop. And to think that, for a while, she actually thought of going into classical music! [Phew... I heave a sigh of relief for Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart and the likes.] As it stands, the only thing that could make this sound decent... is distance.

Ratings: 4 out of 10

Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers - Greatest Hits

2011-01-04T08:54:00.000-08:00

Tom Petty survived the scuffling Southern bar circuit, soul-destroying legal wrangles and a self-inflicted hospital spell to bring his mid-tempo memories of fickle women and cheerless highways to a world audience. Following his success with the Traveling Wilburys, Tom is "back" in the limelight with the Heartbreakers. This compilation of the group's greatest hits includes "I Won't Back Down" (from Tom's 1989 solo album "Full Moon Fever"), "Refugee", and personal favourite, "Don't Come Around Here No More".

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Das EFX - Straight Up Sewaside

2011-01-03T08:53:00.000-08:00

Interesting fact: Das EFX stands for Drayz and Skoob Effect. Less interesting fact: Their new album is called "Straight Up Sewaside" (suicide?). The truth: this is crappy rappy. Would anyone spend an hour listening to someone talking to a half-hearted beat rhythm? Wow, whoever he is, he must have lots of time to waste! This is probably the dumbest album I've ever listened to. After a while, you'll just hate people who substitute words with alphabets.

Ratings: 1 out of 10

The Best Of Bad Company Live... - What You Hear Is What You Get

2011-01-02T08:50:00.000-08:00

Back at the inception of the original Bad Company, guitarist Mick Ralphs explained that "our band was put together purely for music; we just wanted to play." In 1986, he commented on the new Bad Company (original members Simon Kirke and Ralphs himself, joined by vocalist Brian Howe) by saying: "This band was put together because we knew we had good songs. We couldn't do it on our looks, so we figured we better do it on the music." How very frank! And indeed they clearly proved that they had a lot to say to a whole new generation. Listen out particularly to such killer cuts as "If You Needed Somebody", "Shooting Star", "Can't Get Enough" and the grand finale, "Bad Company".

Ratings: 7 out of 10

10,000 Maniacs - MTV Unplugged

2011-01-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

10,000 Maniacs are Natalie Merchant (lead vocals), Jerome Augustyniak (drums), Robert Buck (guitar), Dennis Drew (keyboards) and Steven Gustafson (bass). The Maniacs' trademark folk-rock sound grows wider and deeper around the lyrical poesy of lead singer Merchant. This compilation of "unplugged" performance by the group is a treat for fans who will recognize "Because The Night" which enjoyed a great deal of air-play not too long ago.

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Ricky Van Shelton - A Bridge I Didn't Burn

2010-12-31T08:46:00.000-08:00

Albums like this always make me think seriously about having my head sound-proofed. Cellophane-coated and adorned with a colourful sleeve cover, I somehow knew that it was never going to be worth fighting through the packaging to get at this product. Needless to say, it looks better than it sounds -- and that's hardly a recommendation. (Lesson: looks can be deceiving.)

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Jody Watley - Intimacy

2010-12-30T08:43:00.000-08:00

It's been almost a decade since Jody was the distinctive tangy voice in the international sensation, Shalamar. Now it seems like Jody has stopped "looking for a new love" and is enjoying some kind of intimacy instead. Here, she covers a broad spectrum of music and tries to do a Whitney Houston (which really isn't too difficult -- just need to sound bland, that's all) and mind, she's set to give Ms Houston a good run for her money.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

II D Extreme

2010-12-29T08:24:00.000-08:00

Oh shit! Another one! This time it's dedicated to the Almighty God. No way, folks. It ain't gonna help. The whole album still sounds as if it comprises tracks which are discarded by some living-on-the-dole group. As soon as the first track begins, you'll either feel like falling asleep or you might develop the urge to wreck you cassette player. And just to make things A+ mega-horrific, the Extreme throws in nursery rhyme style choruses in most of their "offerings". Really pushing things II D Extreme!

Ratings: God gets 2, you guys get zilch!

Hi-Five - Faithful

2010-12-28T08:23:00.000-08:00

Just about every member of this group goes "I would like to thank the Lord Jesus Christ....blah, blah, blah..." on the sleeve notes (What the @#*%Ÿ!!!). One would have forgiven them if they'd sing as well as their faith, but the fact is, their vocals have a very bad effect on the stomach. And the materials they choose to perform are VERY cliché pop/R&B drivel. The blandness of the songs is beyond imagination or redemption. To add insult to injury, there's only eight tracks on this album! Guess we'll have to pray hard and thank the Lord Jesus Christ that we will never have to set sight on them again. Amen. Please scram!

Ratings: Zero

Prince - The Hits 2

2010-12-27T08:20:00.000-08:00

Prince, it seems, can hardly put a foot out of line. If he recorded a single, swinging from a chandelier, chanting "Rule Brittania" while plucking a harp with his teeth, most people would still pronounce him a musical genius. Undoubtedly he is, although at times he seems to lapse into the realms of complete and utter weirdness.

When his "Purple Rain" album (brilliant!) and film (yawn!) made him a worldwide star, he was snooty and eccentric enough to refuse to do interviews. Since then, he has remained refreshingly unpredictable -- each new album is as excellent, bizarre and individual as the last and is usually accompanied by some ludicrous new clothes concept from His Royal Diddiness. He works phenomenally fast and not only are there said to be albums and albums of unreleased Prince music but he also finds time for a large number of other projects on his own Paisley Park record label.

A wonderful reminder of the great talent in a small guy. Just an afterthought, it says here in the sleeve notes that "as we reflect on the past 15 years, there's a six-letter word that doesn't name a human being as much as it defines a sub-genre of our culture (Prince)"; similarly, as we reflect on the past 15 years (in fact, more than that), there's a four-letter word that "doesn't name a human being as much as it defines a sub-genre of our culture" -- and that's SHIT!

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Cool Runnings

2010-12-26T08:18:00.000-08:00

A couple of years ago, Paul Simon heard a tape of South African music and was so impressed that he decided to pay some of those black musicians lots of dollars to record an album for him. These swinging sounds transformed an ageing, boring pop star who most people had forgotten about into the chap who recorded "Graceland", one of the most successful album in recent music history.

And where can you find such similar music without Paul Simon wibbling away on top of it all? The answer's here on this soundtrack from the upbeat comedy "Cool Running". This album is a celebration of contemporary music from Jamaica that brings together a cross-section of brilliant new and established reggae/dancehall artistes. If you want a compilation of Jamaican music, there are few better choices around. Favourite track is "Jamaican Bobsledding Chant" by Worl-A-Girl, who sounds strangely like.... Musical Youth.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Bette Midler - Gypsy

2010-12-25T08:16:00.000-08:00

Eeks! A Broadway musical! I almost flung this out of the window, but obligation kept me through the whole of side A before I told myself: "That's it!" Boring is an understatement. I guess it's because Broadway musicals have never been my cup of tea. This soundtrack recording of "Gypsy", despite its liberal dose of brass and percussion, ain't gonna change my mind at all.

The film itself is a new interpretation of the classic "Gypsy", the legendary musical fable suggested by the memoirs of stripper Gypsy Rose Lee. This 1993 remake, conceived as a movie event for television, stars Bette Midler as the indomitable Mama Rose, Peter Riegert as Herbie and Cynthia Gibb as Louise (who becomes the stripper Gypsy Rose Lee). Although the original Styne and Sondheim score was faithfully reproduced here by Broadway musical director Michael Rafter with the help of a thirty-five piece orchestra, and with Midler performing most of her vocals live, "Gypsy" remains strictly for die-hard fans only.

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Workshy - Heaven

2010-12-24T08:14:00.000-08:00

With the help of Glenn Skinner and James McMillan (people who have been around since Workshy's beginning), and an army of session players, "Heaven" comes out very slick and polished. Believe it or not, Chrysta Jones, one half of Workshy, is partially deaf! Together with Michael McDermott, the duo comes across as Manhatten Transfer and Swingout Sister rolled into one. Their de rigeur jazz tinge, enhanced by a laid-back arrangement is miles better than the average dance floor fodder.

Too bad the not-quite-but-almost-soulless bunch of songs seems tailor-made for the American market. A stately new offering from a band which has probably reached a peak, at least for the present moment. They deserve a nice long rest.

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Levellers

2010-12-23T08:11:00.000-08:00

The Levellers take their name from a group of 17th-century radical dissenters who advocated democratic reform and the levelling of all social ranks. These modern-day Levellers have been equally outspoken. But they also have withstood being branded by the U.K. press as a "crusty" band, a derisive term used to describe an audience containing many so-called "new age travellers" -- neo-hippie youngsters who have attracted much adverse publicity in Britain.

Listening to the Levellers makes you think that the whole universe has suddenly gone completely loopy. Their style of blending rock guitars with synthesizers and traditional instruments such as fiddles, hurdy gurdys, and didgeridoos is unique -- one moment there's growling, distorted guitars and funeral-paced doominess, the next, jaunty tunes and exotic instruments twanging, and the next, some refreshingly uncluttered pop songs. Occasionally the tracks are too dreary for words but on the whole this is quite a dense, fascinating and wonderfully miserable record. Personal favourite is "Julie" featuring bagpipes by Callum Williams.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Shima - More Than Your Girl

2010-12-22T08:10:00.000-08:00

Ah.... lots of saxophone, tinkling synthesizers, and percussion by a drummer who seemed to be falling asleep. Halfway through, I decided that this album deserves to take a beating. The problem with most Asians belting out English numbers is that they're often too mindful of accurate pronunciation, and the harder they try to sound right, the weirder they end up. Twenty-three year old Shima, former lead vocalist of Malaysia's top local band Shima & The Boys, sings like Diana Ross at her immaturity stage. And the materials she was given to perform is of no help either.

Weak voice, cliché lyrics, heard-it-before music, nothing-too-new production. Meaning? ZZzzzz......

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Robert Lamm - Life Is Good In My Neighbourhood

2010-12-21T08:08:00.000-08:00

In case you don't know, Robert Lamm has been the leading man in the super rock band Chicago for over 26 years. "Life Is Good In My Neighbourhood" is Lamm's second solo album following his first solo attempt 19 years ago (!!). Times have changed, but obviously our dear songwriter hasn't been paying attention. It says on the press release that this album contains songs with a typical Robert Lamm style that could be heard in past Chicago offerings. Wonder why he went solo then?

Lamm at times sounds like Huey Lewis (though not half as good) and the ten tracks on this album (including two of the same song -- version A & B of "My Neighbourhood") aren't particularly memorable. There's a rather drippy ballad ("When The Rain Becomes") and even a few bouncy poppy numbers, but on the whole, the album is a bit dull and uninspired. Not that it's bad actually. It'd be nice if the songs didn't sound so safe and predictable. A bit like the Chicago Bulls without Michael Jordan. Something to LAMMent about while you play this album. Next, please!

Ratings: 2 out of 10

Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dream

2010-12-20T08:05:00.000-08:00

The music churned out by The Smashing Pumpkins goes along the same line as British pop group Radiohead. The difference is that The Pumpkins are a zillion times better (well, almost) than those creep. And The Pumpkins have brought in sections of lush orchestration, swathes of Eastern mysticism and a finely-honed pathway between light and dark emotions, providing for a diversity which is lacking in most new bands.

This follow-up to their mildly-successful 1991 debut album, "Gish", starts off slowly, then creeps up to a ferocious climax where the metally guitar sound meshes with the brooding bass and vocalist Billy Crogan's tonsils just go on fire! The track "Quiet" is ironically noisy with pulsating drums and non-stop bass accompanying Crogan who sings as though he's had a drop too much. Still "Siamese Dream" contains not one catchy tune -- but!! -- instead there are some quite mesmerizingly beautiful instrumentation -- especially on "Today" and "Soma", which certainly justify the rumours that The Smashing Pumpkins are about to become the next big thing.

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Wayne's World 2

2010-12-19T08:01:00.000-08:00

Basically a rock and roll compilation, this soundtrack will appeal to teenagers and aspiring rockers. Most featured artistes here have a certain hard rock standard: Joan Jett ("I Love Rock And Roll"), Golden Earring ("Radar Love"), Four Non Blondes ("Mary's House") and even Dinosaur Jr. ("Out There"). The majority of the songs have made it to the upper echelon of the pop charts at one time or the other. The album also features Chrissie Hynde and Urge Overkill together as Superfan delivering an unforgettable twist to the Carpenter's classic "Superstar". Rock fans will have a deafening time.

Ratings: 4 out of 10

A Perfect World

2010-12-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

A series of compilations that brings back the country, blues and jazzy nostalgic moments of the sixties. Also featured in this soundtrack are old-time favourite children tunes like "Catch A Falling Star" (Perry Como) and "Don't Worry" (Marty Robbins). However, the music became too draggy mid-way through and the tendency to focus on only certain types of music will make listeners lose interest. The saving grace is the "End Credit's Medley" (Lennie Niehaus) which was actually composed by Clint Eastwood himself. But then again, one can't help feeling that the movie's much better.

Ratings: 3 out of 10

Heaven And Earth

2010-12-17T07:58:00.000-08:00

This piece of soundtrack speaks volumes for the highly acclaimed movie. The intensity of each score accurately reflects the mood and time-frame of the epic's setting. Beautiful tunes and appropriate orchestration, the singing of a Vietnamese woman, the strains of the culture's musical instruments, the build up of climaxes and the haunting tunes of "Steve's Ghosts" are all extremely commendable works. It is little wonder that the soundtrack won the Original Score award at the recent 51st Golden Globe Awards. Chances are that it will win the Oscars in March for the same title award.

Ratings: 9 out of 10

Even Cowgirls Get The Blues

2010-12-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

The 16 tracks here range from 30-seconds interludes to two-minute overtures and standard three-minute pop. Though half of the album's songs are instrumental, k. d. lang, the tomboy who burst into the music scene with her own brand of avant-garde country and sultry blues, is credited as writer/co-writer of all the cuts (except for one cover -- "Sweet Little Cherokee"). Despite lang's impressive credentials, this soundtrack for the Gus Van Sant film adaptation of Tom Robbins' 1970's classic novel is actually very dreary stuff. Even before it progresses to the later half, I'm already beginning to get the blues. Hardly surprising that you'll be bored stiff too!

Ratings: 3 out of 10

Addams Family Values

2010-12-15T07:55:00.000-08:00

This album opens with much promise, and you could be forgiven for thinking that this is another one of those wonderful compilations under the guise of a "soundtrack". The thing is, after a while, all such promise disappears. The first few tracks are fine, but the rest (especially those on the flip side) aren't particularly memorable. All that can be safely said about this soundtrack is that it goes, bleep, pop, splink, stutter, chug, r-r-r-rap (or something like that). And sharks, there's that awful Shabba Ranks again, harping about "Family Affairs". Good gracious!

Ratings: 5 out of 10

The Age Of Innocence

2010-12-14T07:53:00.000-08:00

The music for this motion picture, composed and conducted by Elmer Bernstein, impeccably illustrates and complements the story, making it a cohesive, coherent soundtrack. "Emperor Waltz", written by Johann Strauss II as a tribute to the Emperor Franz-Josef on the anniversary of his fortieth year on the Austrian throne, is a tender and slightly wistful piece, which at times looks back nostalgically to old Vienna. The waltz is also my favourite track, and it suggests, among other things, a stately royal procession, a Viennese folk dance and moments of tranquility -- a recurring theme throughout this entire reel. For those who like the dreamy mood of "Somewhere In Time", you will definitely love this.

Ratings: 8 out of 10

Eternal - Always & Forever

2010-12-13T07:46:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how producers can sometimes screw up a record by exerting too much of their influence. Here, apparently, the talents of the four dancing, singing members of Eternal (Louise, Vernett, Easther, and Kelle) are wasted in an album that's based on tried-and-tested formula. Tracks like "I'll Be There" and "Never Gonna Give You Up" may work well in America, but they sound too trite, too boring to me. The girls' cover of "Let's Stay Together" lacks the sheer energy and oomph compared to Tina Turner's rendition.

Long before En Vogue makes it to the forefront, the most notable all-female group churning out infectious, danceable tunes was possibly the Pointer Sisters. However, by sounding too similar to the rest of the gang, Eternal risks being labelled as a bunch of girls who has jumped onto an overcrowded bandwagon.

Ratings: 5 out of 10

Phil Collins - Both Sides

2010-12-12T23:02:00.000-08:00

You can always trust Phil Collins to have a piece of everything in his albums. This latest offering is his most personal, soul-baring one to date. Written, produced and performed entirely by Phil Collins at his home in Sussex, "Both Sides" speaks close to the heart and impresses one with more realism in the lyrics rather than the music (despite the nice instrumentation). The songs, delivered in a faultless, clinical manner befitting of an experienced artiste, are as usual very accessible to the general public.

The first track is a catchy "Both Sides Of The Story", but be prepared to hear his typical ballads again, such as "Everyday" and "We Fly So Close". Watch out too for his promotional tour which will start in April and will last for a year. A genius Genesis nevertheless.

Ratings: 6 out of 10

John Farnham - Then Again

2010-12-11T23:00:00.000-08:00

From the man who gave us "You're The Voice", John Farnham is back with his twelfth studio album. This new release contains two cover versions -- one very well known (the 1976 Alice Cooper classic "Only Women Bleed") and the other is rather obscure (a song called "Talk Of The Town", written by Australian songwriter Shane Howard for a low-budget documentary). Apparently, John is no mere pop singer. He has, or appears to have, the secret ingredient that sets him apart from the herd, namely stinging pop tunes and lyrics like those in this album, about love gone badly wrong.

Loads of people have said that he's going to become a big-time pop star, but it never seems to happen and, sad to say, this album won't change that. But then again, things seldom behave in a logical manner on the music scene (they simply aren't supposed to).

Ratings: 6 out of 10

Stakka Bo - SUPeRMARKeT

2010-12-10T22:59:00.000-08:00

A brilliant album of ten tunes which are an unlikely mixture of rap, funk, hip-hop and even reggae all running into each other, making this a whizzingly danceable LP. This isn't the usual endless bump and grind you might expect from this sort of funky dance outfit. Instead you get groovy-smoothy numbers that will give L.L. Cool J. a good run for his money.

Stakka Bo reveals a hidden talent for singing in a macho tone which nuzzles around the ear, and there's actually a tune to the songs here! How remarkable! The highly energetic, infectious rapping makes this perfect for a manic dancing session and.... er, completely hopeless for anything else. Best track is "We".

Ratings: 7 out of 10

Cry For Love - Brother

2010-12-09T22:57:00.000-08:00

Cry Of Love is a classic rock and roll band which thrashes merrily away with lots of "buzzsaw" guitars and mad thumping sounds all over the place. Their raw and hard-edged sound may not be easily digested by the general music public although one must admit they are brilliant on a few tracks. Unfortunately, this album takes 20 or so "spins" before it starts to make sense, so it will be quite a miracle if someone has that sort of patience to discover their "talent".

The sad thing is that the album doesn't open impressively enough, and it's left to the last track "Saving Grace" to salvage the whole situation. Appropriate title -- but too little, too late.

Ratings: 4 out of 10

Dan Fogelberg - River Of Souls

2010-12-08T22:55:00.000-08:00

Dan Fogelberg is another helluva songwriter. Remember "Believe In Me"? I used to swear by that song (literally) back in those days when such heart-tugging sentimental numbers were prevalent on the music scene. Ever since "The Language Of Love", Dan has been missing-in-action. Now he's back with "River Of Souls", written and produced by himself. The album opens with a jazzy, upbeat "Magic Every Moment" and proceeded to a wry dig at Donald Trump ("All There Is") and to the stirring "The Minstrel" (a song dedicated to his hopelessly romantic friends in Maine who derive deep pleasure from the care and handling of wooden sailboats): "There's a love in my life/Neither mistress nor wife/And she waits for me every morning by the sea/Where the fishing hawk wheels/And the sun warms the seals/There she lays at her silent anchorage for me".

Other standout tracks are "A Love Like This", a song to his wife which easily rivals Chris De Burg's "Lady In Red", and the statement-making "A Voice Of Peace". Splendid! Welcome back, Dan.

Ratings: 9 out of 10

Elton John - Duets

2010-12-07T22:53:00.000-08:00

The thing about making a multiple-duets album is that there is always a possibility of any one of your partners out-performing you. Here, Elton John is not only beaten, but twice. On the live version of "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me", George Michael's vocals almost eclipsed Elton's, putting the latter under a lot of pressure (I suppose) when he was introduced by George at his sell-out concert at Wembley in 1991. Elton played second-fiddle again on "Old Friend", a piece written, produced and arranged by Nik Kershaw who also plays all the instruments on the track.

Unlike Sinatra's "Duets", all but one of the duets on this album were recorded with both Elton and the artiste together in various studios on both sides of the Atlantic, hence the chemistry between the artistes is comparatively better. Standout tracks, apart from the two mentioned earlier, are "Love Letters" (with Bonnie Raitt) and "Duets For One", where Elton is back to his best -- singing alone.

Ratings: 6 out of 10