THINKER MUS CALI

MR. REVIEWS

My name is Alex, a.k.a. Mr. Reviews. I was born in Mexico City in November 1976. I’ve been passionate for recorded music since a very young age and I used to be obssessed with it since I was a child. My very first album was Alan Parson’s “Eye in the Sky” although I used to enjoy my parents’ collection that ranged from the Beatles to ABBA, or my siblings albums that were as varied as Kiss, Queen or the Bee Gees.Over the years I developed an ear and taste for music which eventually led me to be a bit more selective, I started to read more and more about trends, artists, labels, etc. to the point that my friends started asking for advice on what to buy or if I considered an album good or bad.All of a sudden a very important person told me in March 2012: “Why don’t you write reviews?” Then I started this blog… and the rest is history on the works… REVIEWS

MR.

My name is Alex, a.k.a. Mr. Reviews. I was born in Mexico City in November 1976. I’ve been passionate for recorded music since a very young age and I used to be obssessed with it since I was a child. My very first album was Alan Parson’s “Eye in the Sky” although I used to enjoy my parents’ collection that ranged from the Beatles to ABBA, or my siblings albums that were as varied as Kiss, Queen or the Bee Gees.Over the years I developed an ear and taste for music which eventually led me to be a bit more selective, I started to read more and more about trends, artists, labels, etc. to the point that my friends started asking for advice on what to buy or if I considered an album good or bad.All of a sudden a very important person told me in March 2012: “Why don’t you write reviews?” Then I started this blog… and the rest is history on the works… REVIEWS

MR.

electronica, string arrangements and other instru-ments to very good results.Not all of the songs work. Two or three of them are too repetitive or, at least in my opinion, useless add-ons to the rest of the album. But most of the second half of it, it’s an exciting journey of music and lyrics with interesting arrangements in a careful production that still gives the raw feeling needed to keep its identity.One of the best albums of the year indeed, and undoubtly one of the best by Nelly Furtado, who, in case didn’t impress some audiences in the past, she will indeed this time. Among with other albums, this is a huge lesson for some of the artists that came back this year with very mediocre material. Highly recommended.

Released September 2012Genre: Pop, Urban Pop

Label: Interscope

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Of the artists of her generation, Nelly Furtado stands out for being one of the most daring and sometimes experimental when it comes to pop and urban music. Her style is hard to define, but still one of the most successful in the last few years, she has tried different genres and even languages to create interesting albums and songs.Her fourth English-speaking album (fifth overall) is in many ways a combination of previous works, it’s an integration of different genres that fit together amazingly well. If perhaps sometimes the tracks are too oriented to an urban feeling, most of the album feels fun and youthful, aimed to an audience that was craving something new from her.While many of her critics said she sold out when she released “Loose”, this album is more balanced with her previous “indie pop” roots. She delivers an honest, straightforward set of songs with the surrounding theme of spirituality despite it not being a concept album. She added again different genres and rhythms, the usual sound is there, but she experimented with some

NELLY FURTADOTHE SPIRIT INDESTRUCTIBLE

The Highlights: “Spirit Indestructible”, “Big Hoops (Bigger the Better)”, “Parking Lot”, “Bucket List”, “The Most Beautiful Thing”, “Waiting for the Night”, “Circles”, “Enemy”, “Believers (Arab Spring)”

electronica, string arrangements and other instru-ments to very good results.Not all of the songs work. Two or three of them are too repetitive or, at least in my opinion, useless add-ons to the rest of the album. But most of the second half of it, it’s an exciting journey of music and lyrics with interesting arrangements in a careful production that still gives the raw feeling needed to keep its identity.One of the best albums of the year indeed, and undoubtly one of the best by Nelly Furtado, who, in case didn’t impress some audiences in the past, she will indeed this time. Among with other albums, this is a huge lesson for some of the artists that came back this year with very mediocre material. Highly recommended.

Released September 2012Genre: Pop, Urban Pop

Label: Interscope

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Of the artists of her generation, Nelly Furtado stands out for being one of the most daring and sometimes experimental when it comes to pop and urban music. Her style is hard to define, but still one of the most successful in the last few years, she has tried different genres and even languages to create interesting albums and songs.Her fourth English-speaking album (fifth overall) is in many ways a combination of previous works, it’s an integration of different genres that fit together amazingly well. If perhaps sometimes the tracks are too oriented to an urban feeling, most of the album feels fun and youthful, aimed to an audience that was craving something new from her.While many of her critics said she sold out when she released “Loose”, this album is more balanced with her previous “indie pop” roots. She delivers an honest, straightforward set of songs with the surrounding theme of spirituality despite it not being a concept album. She added again different genres and rhythms, the usual sound is there, but she experimented with some

NELLY FURTADOTHE SPIRIT INDESTRUCTIBLE

The Highlights: “Spirit Indestructible”, “Big Hoops (Bigger the Better)”, “Parking Lot”, “Bucket List”, “The Most Beautiful Thing”, “Waiting for the Night”, “Circles”, “Enemy”, “Believers (Arab Spring)”

PET SHOP BOYSELYSIUM

The musical scene of the mid 80s was plagued by bands that played synthpop and new wave with just the basics in a very processed and overproduced style. Just a few have survived, some like Depeche Mode that changed their musical direction, others like Erasure and Pet Shop Boys that evolved but kept their sound.This marks their first album in three years, although the british duo hasn’t stopped creating and playing together or as solo artists. “Elysium” could be considered a return to form, especially for electronica purists. The album offers an interesting surrounding of ambient sounds that reminds us of “Behaviour”. There is less experiments here and more of their usual style: sophisticated electronica driven songs with interesting lyrics that deal mostly with relationships and modern life. When it comes to teaching lessons in songwriting, Neil Tennant is a master.The overall feeling of the album is atmospheric and dream-like, which most of the time is interesting and keeps the listener hooked, but can be exhaustive for other audiences looking for a more organic sound (The way they did with their

previous album). Here we got the kind of album we could have expected from them back in 1990, but the album lacks the nostalgia it would carry, instead they prove they have grown up.Some tracks work better than other. The single “Winner” can’t be considered a total win, it feels out of place whithin the album and it would have made for a good bonus track instead. On the other hand, the opening track “Leaving” is one of those PSB masterpieces that deserve to be released as singles. The same effect appears in other moments during the album, but trying to be eclectic without losing the overall concept, it often feels uneven.Of course, the Pet Shop Boys are never bad, they know what they are doing, achieving again the goal of making dance/electronica music that is never too camp; but this album could have been, in many ways, downsized and it would perhaps work better. Still very enjoyable, and another come back to the list of 2012.

The Highlights: “Leaving”, “Invisible”, “Face Like That”, “Breathing Space”, “Memory of the Future”, “Requiem in Denim and Leopardskin”.

Released September 2012Genre: Electronica / PopLabel: EMI / Parlophone

Rating: 3. 5 / 5

PET SHOP BOYSELYSIUM

The musical scene of the mid 80s was plagued by bands that played synthpop and new wave with just the basics in a very processed and overproduced style. Just a few have survived, some like Depeche Mode that changed their musical direction, others like Erasure and Pet Shop Boys that evolved but kept their sound.This marks their first album in three years, although the british duo hasn’t stopped creating and playing together or as solo artists. “Elysium” could be considered a return to form, especially for electronica purists. The album offers an interesting surrounding of ambient sounds that reminds us of “Behaviour”. There is less experiments here and more of their usual style: sophisticated electronica driven songs with interesting lyrics that deal mostly with relationships and modern life. When it comes to teaching lessons in songwriting, Neil Tennant is a master.The overall feeling of the album is atmospheric and dream-like, which most of the time is interesting and keeps the listener hooked, but can be exhaustive for other audiences looking for a more organic sound (The way they did with their

previous album). Here we got the kind of album we could have expected from them back in 1990, but the album lacks the nostalgia it would carry, instead they prove they have grown up.Some tracks work better than other. The single “Winner” can’t be considered a total win, it feels out of place whithin the album and it would have made for a good bonus track instead. On the other hand, the opening track “Leaving” is one of those PSB masterpieces that deserve to be released as singles. The same effect appears in other moments during the album, but trying to be eclectic without losing the overall concept, it often feels uneven.Of course, the Pet Shop Boys are never bad, they know what they are doing, achieving again the goal of making dance/electronica music that is never too camp; but this album could have been, in many ways, downsized and it would perhaps work better. Still very enjoyable, and another come back to the list of 2012.

The Highlights: “Leaving”, “Invisible”, “Face Like That”, “Breathing Space”, “Memory of the Future”, “Requiem in Denim and Leopardskin”.

Released September 2012Genre: Electronica / PopLabel: EMI / Parlophone

Rating: 3. 5 / 5

A newcomer this year for a change. An American Idol ex alumni that didn’t win but is great, that’s not much of a surprise. It happened before to artists like Daughtry, who lost the crown but succeeded much more outside, in the real world.Casey Abrams has many things to become a successful singer. First of all, a deep and interesting voice, then a sparkly persona that will work for amazing live presentations, then there is his physical appearance that goes against the usual “AmIdol” ex, just the way Chris Daughtry did. He is different, that’s the best word to describe it, and he is it in a very good way, because after all, that realty show that has become a factory of one hit wonders still can catch some talented musicians, just the way it did in its hey day.This debut album could be considered “indie” if it wasn’t backed by the labels that publish it. But the tunes in the album are pure and fine pop with some hints of country and a little bit of blues. The songs are straightforward, honest, fun. He is giving his best in every note, showing how much he believes in his work. His laid back style is a watermark all over the album, and it works perfectly, becoming one of those rare debuts that

The Highlights: “Simple Life”, “Ghosts”, “Get Out”, “Great Bright Morning”, “Midnight Girl”, “A Boy Can Dream”, “Dry Spell”, “Hit the Road Jack”.

are really worth to listen for more than one attractive song.His songwriting skills may need to be developed further, but this is just the beginning for this guy. Some songs are brilliant and interesting compositions with nice lyrics, while others are a bit pale compared to the rest. That doesn’t mean they are filler, but perhaps not as good as others. In any case, the album is not overstuffed with useless material, it has the right amount of songs for an album that tries -and succeeds- to be lightweight but not vain, because most of it is well crafted and the performer is really committed to it.This is a great start for a guy that will sure make even better things in the future. Highly recommended, it is fresh, fun, joyful, perfect for any occasion.

CASEY ABRAMSCASEY ABRAMS

Released June 2012Genre: Pop

Label: 19 / Concord

Rating: 4 / 5

A newcomer this year for a change. An American Idol ex alumni that didn’t win but is great, that’s not much of a surprise. It happened before to artists like Daughtry, who lost the crown but succeeded much more outside, in the real world.Casey Abrams has many things to become a successful singer. First of all, a deep and interesting voice, then a sparkly persona that will work for amazing live presentations, then there is his physical appearance that goes against the usual “AmIdol” ex, just the way Chris Daughtry did. He is different, that’s the best word to describe it, and he is it in a very good way, because after all, that realty show that has become a factory of one hit wonders still can catch some talented musicians, just the way it did in its hey day.This debut album could be considered “indie” if it wasn’t backed by the labels that publish it. But the tunes in the album are pure and fine pop with some hints of country and a little bit of blues. The songs are straightforward, honest, fun. He is giving his best in every note, showing how much he believes in his work. His laid back style is a watermark all over the album, and it works perfectly, becoming one of those rare debuts that

The Highlights: “Simple Life”, “Ghosts”, “Get Out”, “Great Bright Morning”, “Midnight Girl”, “A Boy Can Dream”, “Dry Spell”, “Hit the Road Jack”.

are really worth to listen for more than one attractive song.His songwriting skills may need to be developed further, but this is just the beginning for this guy. Some songs are brilliant and interesting compositions with nice lyrics, while others are a bit pale compared to the rest. That doesn’t mean they are filler, but perhaps not as good as others. In any case, the album is not overstuffed with useless material, it has the right amount of songs for an album that tries -and succeeds- to be lightweight but not vain, because most of it is well crafted and the performer is really committed to it.This is a great start for a guy that will sure make even better things in the future. Highly recommended, it is fresh, fun, joyful, perfect for any occasion.

CASEY ABRAMSCASEY ABRAMS

Released June 2012Genre: Pop

Label: 19 / Concord

Rating: 4 / 5

Perhaps one of the most anticipated come backs of the year… perhaps what the musical scene needed. Call it what you want, Alanis is back to show again why she became an icon of the 1990s and how far she can go.Her extraordinary skills as singer-songwriter have grown up for many reasons: motherhood, age, experiences. This album after her long hiatus has the essential sound of Alanis, but evolved, transformed into a more mature woman but appealing to anyone. This album is a conjunction of experiences and sounds, some tracks remind us of her super-successful “Jagged Little Pill” while others have a more “Under the Rug Swept” feeling. All up to date, all new, fresh as she can be. Addressing subjects that go from relationships and to feminism, her style hasn’t diminished a single bit in all those years.There are tracks that feel a bit off the rest, but that’s not surprise with her. She is widely known to be eclectic and surprise us in most of her albums with such strange combinations. Her voice is what keeps the set together in an impressive way, because no one can denies that she is singing better than ever.

When it comes to the music, there are many, many strings combined with electronic instruments, which makes the songs sound -yet again- eclectic. The background vocals and arrangements are carefully set to make the songs shine, whether are more upbeat ones or the slower numbers.

What I liked the most about the album is that she is more serene and relaxed in it. The rage of “Jagged Little Pill” or the intricate reflexions of “Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie” turned into a more harmonic and somewhat more intelligent album that fulfills all expectations from both fans and non-fans. Undoubtedly one of the best albums of the year.

The Highlights: “Guardian”, “Woman Down”, “Celebrity”, “Empathy”, “Lens”, “Spiral”, “Numb”, “Win and Win”, “Edge of Evolution”.

ALANIS MORISSETTEHAVOC AND BRIGHT LIGHTS

Released August 2012Genre: Rock / PopLabel: Collective Sounds / Sony

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Perhaps one of the most anticipated come backs of the year… perhaps what the musical scene needed. Call it what you want, Alanis is back to show again why she became an icon of the 1990s and how far she can go.Her extraordinary skills as singer-songwriter have grown up for many reasons: motherhood, age, experiences. This album after her long hiatus has the essential sound of Alanis, but evolved, transformed into a more mature woman but appealing to anyone. This album is a conjunction of experiences and sounds, some tracks remind us of her super-successful “Jagged Little Pill” while others have a more “Under the Rug Swept” feeling. All up to date, all new, fresh as she can be. Addressing subjects that go from relationships and to feminism, her style hasn’t diminished a single bit in all those years.There are tracks that feel a bit off the rest, but that’s not surprise with her. She is widely known to be eclectic and surprise us in most of her albums with such strange combinations. Her voice is what keeps the set together in an impressive way, because no one can denies that she is singing better than ever.

When it comes to the music, there are many, many strings combined with electronic instruments, which makes the songs sound -yet again- eclectic. The background vocals and arrangements are carefully set to make the songs shine, whether are more upbeat ones or the slower numbers.

What I liked the most about the album is that she is more serene and relaxed in it. The rage of “Jagged Little Pill” or the intricate reflexions of “Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie” turned into a more harmonic and somewhat more intelligent album that fulfills all expectations from both fans and non-fans. Undoubtedly one of the best albums of the year.

The Highlights: “Guardian”, “Woman Down”, “Celebrity”, “Empathy”, “Lens”, “Spiral”, “Numb”, “Win and Win”, “Edge of Evolution”.

ALANIS MORISSETTEHAVOC AND BRIGHT LIGHTS

Released August 2012Genre: Rock / PopLabel: Collective Sounds / Sony

Rating: 4.5 / 5

DEAD CAN DANCEANASTASIS

Is there a way to review a Dead Can Dance album without mention their dreamy sound, sometimes dark themes and elaborate songs that make for some of the most strange but beautiful albums ever?This is no exception. After they decided to go separate ways, their fans often dreamed of a reunion tour and album. The direction of it, was of course a mystery - like everything around them.Non fans would be thinking if this album will actually work after 14 years of silence. The answer is -for them- a surprising yes. The balance in this album relies on the two creativity worlds of this amazing duo. The middle-eastern influences and heavy electronica arrangements are put together in such complicated way that the album is far from the labels of “new age” or “gothic” or “ambient”. The album is many things at the same time, sometimes light, sometimes dark, sometimes just magic.The set is composed by just eight long tracks that make it run for almost an hour. The thing with it is that if you are not eager to immerse into such atmospheric sounds, it may perhaps feels boring or, for some, it might require a couple of listens to

really get into it. But overall, the result is what you might expect from a Dead Can Dance piece of work.This is the kind of album that can’t be ignored easily. The sounds of it are hypnotic, criptic. The lyrics are reduced to few lines and mostly chants performed in an exotic and ethereal way that are simply irresistible. It’s been 16 years, and yet they feel as fresh as ever. Perfect for quiet nights.

The Highlights: “Children of the Sun”, “Anabasis”, “Agape”, “Amnesia”, “Return of the She-King”

Released August 2012Genre: Art Rock / Ambient / World Music

Label: PIAS Recordings

Rating: 4.5 / 5

DEAD CAN DANCEANASTASIS

Is there a way to review a Dead Can Dance album without mention their dreamy sound, sometimes dark themes and elaborate songs that make for some of the most strange but beautiful albums ever?This is no exception. After they decided to go separate ways, their fans often dreamed of a reunion tour and album. The direction of it, was of course a mystery - like everything around them.Non fans would be thinking if this album will actually work after 14 years of silence. The answer is -for them- a surprising yes. The balance in this album relies on the two creativity worlds of this amazing duo. The middle-eastern influences and heavy electronica arrangements are put together in such complicated way that the album is far from the labels of “new age” or “gothic” or “ambient”. The album is many things at the same time, sometimes light, sometimes dark, sometimes just magic.The set is composed by just eight long tracks that make it run for almost an hour. The thing with it is that if you are not eager to immerse into such atmospheric sounds, it may perhaps feels boring or, for some, it might require a couple of listens to

really get into it. But overall, the result is what you might expect from a Dead Can Dance piece of work.This is the kind of album that can’t be ignored easily. The sounds of it are hypnotic, criptic. The lyrics are reduced to few lines and mostly chants performed in an exotic and ethereal way that are simply irresistible. It’s been 16 years, and yet they feel as fresh as ever. Perfect for quiet nights.

The Highlights: “Children of the Sun”, “Anabasis”, “Agape”, “Amnesia”, “Return of the She-King”

Released August 2012Genre: Art Rock / Ambient / World Music

Label: PIAS Recordings

Rating: 4.5 / 5

There is a thin line between an underground, indie singer-songwriter and a mainstream one. A few can cross it successfully without losing their identity and that’s the case of Citizen Cope a.k.a. Clarence Greenwood. He has the looks of one of those independent musicians but his sound is so appealing that it can reach bigger audiences than just small venues.His sixth album is still in that zone, where he can have enought freedom to sing whatever he wants but he knows exactly what his audience wants to hear. The album is full of acoustic sounds, wonderful lyrics (without being too deep to become boring) and a sophisticated, sleek atmosphere that really creates a colorful ambient that is both pop friendly and rock friendly. He didin’t compromise here to anyone nor anything: he delivers what he does best, straightforward songs about every day life, relationships and things that happen to anyone, and he is really good at it.The album is highly enjoyable and fun to listen, especially the first half. It has perhaps a couple of songs that are simply just not as charming, maybe

Like the 100% acoustic “For a Dollar” that, although good, can’t decide what kind of song it is. Overall this is a wonderful album that proposes something different, more organic and human. The production is so coherent to the performer that it really fits to his style and what we are expecting to hear from him. I was really impressed and in a very good way. Highly recommended!

The Highlights: “One Lovely Day”, “Something to Believe in”, “Back Then”, “DFW”, “Peace River”, “Southern Nights”, “A Wonder”, “Summertime”

CITIZEN COPEONE LOVELY DAY

Released July 2012Genre: Indie Rock / PopLabel: Rainwater Recordings

Rating: 4.5 / 5

There is a thin line between an underground, indie singer-songwriter and a mainstream one. A few can cross it successfully without losing their identity and that’s the case of Citizen Cope a.k.a. Clarence Greenwood. He has the looks of one of those independent musicians but his sound is so appealing that it can reach bigger audiences than just small venues.His sixth album is still in that zone, where he can have enought freedom to sing whatever he wants but he knows exactly what his audience wants to hear. The album is full of acoustic sounds, wonderful lyrics (without being too deep to become boring) and a sophisticated, sleek atmosphere that really creates a colorful ambient that is both pop friendly and rock friendly. He didin’t compromise here to anyone nor anything: he delivers what he does best, straightforward songs about every day life, relationships and things that happen to anyone, and he is really good at it.The album is highly enjoyable and fun to listen, especially the first half. It has perhaps a couple of songs that are simply just not as charming, maybe

Like the 100% acoustic “For a Dollar” that, although good, can’t decide what kind of song it is. Overall this is a wonderful album that proposes something different, more organic and human. The production is so coherent to the performer that it really fits to his style and what we are expecting to hear from him. I was really impressed and in a very good way. Highly recommended!

The Highlights: “One Lovely Day”, “Something to Believe in”, “Back Then”, “DFW”, “Peace River”, “Southern Nights”, “A Wonder”, “Summertime”

CITIZEN COPEONE LOVELY DAY

Released July 2012Genre: Indie Rock / PopLabel: Rainwater Recordings

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Billy Corgan & Co. are back. Their sometimes troubled line-up and personal problems haven’t stopped them from releasing interesting and sometimes hard to understand records that are as iconic as them. This new adventure is a part of a 40+ songs project, that will be recorded and released through different albums, as a whole concept in different issues. It’s been five years and after some switches here and there, they finally release an entire first set of songs apart from the four track EPs they released in the past two years that also belong to the Teargarden by Kaleidyscope conceptual work.“Oceania” has a dreamy atmosphere, although there are some tracks that are 100% their sound, having a heavier and darker tone, but most of the album is lighter than their usual style. That of course, is a manner of speaking, but it can’t be compared to previous albums like “Ava Adore”, it’s more in the vein of “Siamese Dream”, their debut, especially when it comes to the arrangements that rely heavily on strings. The lyrics are most of the times metaphoric and cryptic, it’s the Billy Corgan we are used to.

There are many surprises and most of them rely on the slower tracks, which are for many reasons, sweet but not mellow. If perhaps there is a flaw here, is the lenght of some of the tracks, making the album to run for some good 60 minutes. For the occasional listener it can be exhaustive, especially when it comes to songs that are not exactly commercial.This long awaited album is worth every minute of its runtime. It’s interesting, delicate, poetic and innovative without compromising the usual sound of a band that became an icon of an entire decade and generation. They still got a lot of fuel to keep going, and we still got to wait for the rest of the songs waiting to be unveiled for our pleasure.

The Highlights: “Panopticon”, “The Celestials”, “Violet Rays”, “One Diamond, One Heart”, “Pinwheels”, “Pale Horse”, “Wildflower”.

Released June 2012Genre: Alternative Rock

Label: EMI

Rating: 4.5 / 5

THE SMASHING PUMPKINSOCEANIA

Billy Corgan & Co. are back. Their sometimes troubled line-up and personal problems haven’t stopped them from releasing interesting and sometimes hard to understand records that are as iconic as them. This new adventure is a part of a 40+ songs project, that will be recorded and released through different albums, as a whole concept in different issues. It’s been five years and after some switches here and there, they finally release an entire first set of songs apart from the four track EPs they released in the past two years that also belong to the Teargarden by Kaleidyscope conceptual work.“Oceania” has a dreamy atmosphere, although there are some tracks that are 100% their sound, having a heavier and darker tone, but most of the album is lighter than their usual style. That of course, is a manner of speaking, but it can’t be compared to previous albums like “Ava Adore”, it’s more in the vein of “Siamese Dream”, their debut, especially when it comes to the arrangements that rely heavily on strings. The lyrics are most of the times metaphoric and cryptic, it’s the Billy Corgan we are used to.

There are many surprises and most of them rely on the slower tracks, which are for many reasons, sweet but not mellow. If perhaps there is a flaw here, is the lenght of some of the tracks, making the album to run for some good 60 minutes. For the occasional listener it can be exhaustive, especially when it comes to songs that are not exactly commercial.This long awaited album is worth every minute of its runtime. It’s interesting, delicate, poetic and innovative without compromising the usual sound of a band that became an icon of an entire decade and generation. They still got a lot of fuel to keep going, and we still got to wait for the rest of the songs waiting to be unveiled for our pleasure.

The Highlights: “Panopticon”, “The Celestials”, “Violet Rays”, “One Diamond, One Heart”, “Pinwheels”, “Pale Horse”, “Wildflower”.

Released June 2012Genre: Alternative Rock

Label: EMI

Rating: 4.5 / 5

THE SMASHING PUMPKINSOCEANIA

Along with Coldplay, Keane is maybe the second British piano based band that has caused more stir around the world with their poignant and sometimes dark songs, their debut album became a best seller in 2004 and ever since the Oxford band has achieved hit after hit.“Strangeland” is exactly what a Keane album should be and in many ways is a compilation of their sound through their recording career,but mostly to the “Hopes and Fears” era, with distorted keyboards and stripped down arrangements. The lyrics as usual are melancholic and straightforward, the way they have done before, but they reflect a maturity and evolution that was sighted if not completed in the slightly inferior “Night Train” EP.The result is an album that feels, sounds, looks completely like them. There is no missing point here, the tracks flow one after the other with such grace that makes the album feel cohesive, the listener doesn’t feel cheated.There is a bit of repetitiveness that in many ways can be considered a Keane trademark. Is not like they do it the entire album, but it happens a couple of times, and if you are not used to their sound,

you might find it boring, but for those who like it, won’t even notice. Most of the album is midtempo, not exactly cheerful (I mean, it’s Keane), so those expecting a more upbeat set, better not take this one.This is a great collection of tracks, doesn’t matter if you are an ultimate fan or just like a song or two. This album won’t disappoint anyone in the general audience and show us again why Keane is still one of the greatest British forces of the last 10 years.

The Highlights: “You Are Young”, “Silenced by the Night”, “Disconnected”, “Sovereign Light Café”, “On the Road”, “Day Will Come”, “Sea Fog”.

KEANESTRANGELAND

Released May 2012Genre: Pop / Rock / Piano RockLabel: Island

Rating: 4.5/5

Along with Coldplay, Keane is maybe the second British piano based band that has caused more stir around the world with their poignant and sometimes dark songs, their debut album became a best seller in 2004 and ever since the Oxford band has achieved hit after hit.“Strangeland” is exactly what a Keane album should be and in many ways is a compilation of their sound through their recording career,but mostly to the “Hopes and Fears” era, with distorted keyboards and stripped down arrangements. The lyrics as usual are melancholic and straightforward, the way they have done before, but they reflect a maturity and evolution that was sighted if not completed in the slightly inferior “Night Train” EP.The result is an album that feels, sounds, looks completely like them. There is no missing point here, the tracks flow one after the other with such grace that makes the album feel cohesive, the listener doesn’t feel cheated.There is a bit of repetitiveness that in many ways can be considered a Keane trademark. Is not like they do it the entire album, but it happens a couple of times, and if you are not used to their sound,

you might find it boring, but for those who like it, won’t even notice. Most of the album is midtempo, not exactly cheerful (I mean, it’s Keane), so those expecting a more upbeat set, better not take this one.This is a great collection of tracks, doesn’t matter if you are an ultimate fan or just like a song or two. This album won’t disappoint anyone in the general audience and show us again why Keane is still one of the greatest British forces of the last 10 years.

The Highlights: “You Are Young”, “Silenced by the Night”, “Disconnected”, “Sovereign Light Café”, “On the Road”, “Day Will Come”, “Sea Fog”.

KEANESTRANGELAND

Released May 2012Genre: Pop / Rock / Piano RockLabel: Island

Rating: 4.5/5

Back in 1992, the swedish duo -at the peak of their fame- decided to experiment with different studios and record songs everywhere they could. They called it “Tourism”: an album that, although not bad, was a bit uneven and in many ways inferior to their previous “Joyride”.20 years later, the Gessle-Fredricksson team decided to do it again. During their 2011 World Tour they went through an experiment that succeeds in more ways than “Tourism” did back then.“Travelling” is a great rock/pop album, most of the songs are fresh and energetic, including the mandatory Roxette ballads. They sound as good as ever, they have grown up of course, and after all the ups and downs they lived in the past few years (solo albums, Marie’s surgery to remove a brain tumor), the lyrics to their songs are slightly deeper and meaningful.There are two tracks that were completely unnecessary: the live version of their 2011 hit single “She’s Got Nothing On (But Her Radio)” and a reworked and updated (?) version of their classic “It Must Have Been Love”, which although it has been a staple in their career, has been sang,

played, and reinvented too many times. If they were looking for a song to revamp, they could have chosen many others of their vast catalogue that are as good and even better (to my mind comes “Spending My Time” and “Listen to Your Heart” to mention just a couple).The best part of the album is that it’s just not a fan pleaser. This album, just like “Charm School” did, can and will open new doors to them for a younger generation. Their music is still timeless, sometimes loud, sometimes too mellow… and that’s what makes it so enjoyable - just a few artists from their generation have survived to this day still creating fun music for everyone with such grace and success.

The Highlights: “Me & You & Terry & Julie”, “Lover, Lover, Lover”, “Touched by the Hand of God”, “Easy Way Out”, “Angel Passing”, “Stars”, “See Me”

Released on March 2012Genre: Rock / Pop

Label: EMI

Rating: 4 / 5

ROXETTETRAVELLING

Back in 1992, the swedish duo -at the peak of their fame- decided to experiment with different studios and record songs everywhere they could. They called it “Tourism”: an album that, although not bad, was a bit uneven and in many ways inferior to their previous “Joyride”.20 years later, the Gessle-Fredricksson team decided to do it again. During their 2011 World Tour they went through an experiment that succeeds in more ways than “Tourism” did back then.“Travelling” is a great rock/pop album, most of the songs are fresh and energetic, including the mandatory Roxette ballads. They sound as good as ever, they have grown up of course, and after all the ups and downs they lived in the past few years (solo albums, Marie’s surgery to remove a brain tumor), the lyrics to their songs are slightly deeper and meaningful.There are two tracks that were completely unnecessary: the live version of their 2011 hit single “She’s Got Nothing On (But Her Radio)” and a reworked and updated (?) version of their classic “It Must Have Been Love”, which although it has been a staple in their career, has been sang,

played, and reinvented too many times. If they were looking for a song to revamp, they could have chosen many others of their vast catalogue that are as good and even better (to my mind comes “Spending My Time” and “Listen to Your Heart” to mention just a couple).The best part of the album is that it’s just not a fan pleaser. This album, just like “Charm School” did, can and will open new doors to them for a younger generation. Their music is still timeless, sometimes loud, sometimes too mellow… and that’s what makes it so enjoyable - just a few artists from their generation have survived to this day still creating fun music for everyone with such grace and success.

The Highlights: “Me & You & Terry & Julie”, “Lover, Lover, Lover”, “Touched by the Hand of God”, “Easy Way Out”, “Angel Passing”, “Stars”, “See Me”

Released on March 2012Genre: Rock / Pop

Label: EMI

Rating: 4 / 5

ROXETTETRAVELLING

LIONEL RICHIETUSKEGEE

Many artists try to revamp their careers releasing a “Duets” album with varied results: Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, even spanish singer Miguel Bosé. It’s a leap of faith and it can be a total disaster if it goes wrong.Lionel Richie’s album is a total keeper and a sure success. He takes some of his classic hits and, instead of going safe for the “let’s just sing it as it is”, he reworked them into country pop - singing them with country pop stars. That move brings a new and fresh dimension to the old time favorites of this living legend: “Dancing on the Ceiling” sounds fresh and young with Rascall Flats, and “Endless Love” takes a new spirit with Shania Twain. The list of guests is nice and impressive: Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers, Billy Currington, Pixie Lott, Blake Shelton.Richie took risks and gave his songs a new spirit that will please lifelong fans and won’t dissappoint the younger audiences, although of course, this album is oriented to the “Adult Contemporary” market, but it’s not exclusive of it.Perhaps not all the duets are effective, and that is supposed to happen in an album like this. “Sail on” sounds a little forced at times, and “Easy” was not

the right choice to sing with Willie Nelson. But despite not being the best tracks in the album, they are not bad tracks at all.This is indeed one of the greatest surprises of the year and one of the best duets albums of the last years. Some may say it’s just pure “easy listening”, but what is wrong with that? It’s a good album full of classics by a pop classic. And whoever says that hasn’t ever heard of Lionel Richie, maybe has been living in a different planet in the last 30 years.

The Highlights: “You Are”, “Stuck on You”, “Dancing on the Ceiling”, “Hello”, “Endless Love”, “Just for You”, “Lady”, “All Night Long (All Night)”.

Released March 2012Genre: Pop / Country PopUniversal Nashville

Rating 4.5/5

LIONEL RICHIETUSKEGEE

Many artists try to revamp their careers releasing a “Duets” album with varied results: Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, even spanish singer Miguel Bosé. It’s a leap of faith and it can be a total disaster if it goes wrong.Lionel Richie’s album is a total keeper and a sure success. He takes some of his classic hits and, instead of going safe for the “let’s just sing it as it is”, he reworked them into country pop - singing them with country pop stars. That move brings a new and fresh dimension to the old time favorites of this living legend: “Dancing on the Ceiling” sounds fresh and young with Rascall Flats, and “Endless Love” takes a new spirit with Shania Twain. The list of guests is nice and impressive: Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers, Billy Currington, Pixie Lott, Blake Shelton.Richie took risks and gave his songs a new spirit that will please lifelong fans and won’t dissappoint the younger audiences, although of course, this album is oriented to the “Adult Contemporary” market, but it’s not exclusive of it.Perhaps not all the duets are effective, and that is supposed to happen in an album like this. “Sail on” sounds a little forced at times, and “Easy” was not

the right choice to sing with Willie Nelson. But despite not being the best tracks in the album, they are not bad tracks at all.This is indeed one of the greatest surprises of the year and one of the best duets albums of the last years. Some may say it’s just pure “easy listening”, but what is wrong with that? It’s a good album full of classics by a pop classic. And whoever says that hasn’t ever heard of Lionel Richie, maybe has been living in a different planet in the last 30 years.

The Highlights: “You Are”, “Stuck on You”, “Dancing on the Ceiling”, “Hello”, “Endless Love”, “Just for You”, “Lady”, “All Night Long (All Night)”.

Released March 2012Genre: Pop / Country PopUniversal Nashville

Rating 4.5/5

5 Brilliant, extraordinary album.

4.5 Excellent work.

4 Great album, highly recommended.

3.5 Good album - Positive reaction.

3 Nice album - Mostly positive reaction.

2.5 Average, mixed reaction.

2 Below expectations, more flaws than highlights.

1.5 Mediocre.

1 Very Mediocre.

0.5 Bad - Not recommended.

0 Extremely awful, impossible to recommend.

As in any other form of art, the way the albums are evaluated is subjective, we all react in different ways to the points of view of the artists and producers, and the things some might find beautiful, others will find horrendous.

The copyright of the albums and their artwork reviewed in this blog, belong to their artists, producers and record labels, no infirngment intended.

RATINGS

5 Brilliant, extraordinary album.

4.5 Excellent work.

4 Great album, highly recommended.

3.5 Good album - Positive reaction.

3 Nice album - Mostly positive reaction.

2.5 Average, mixed reaction.

2 Below expectations, more flaws than highlights.

1.5 Mediocre.

1 Very Mediocre.

0.5 Bad - Not recommended.

0 Extremely awful, impossible to recommend.

As in any other form of art, the way the albums are evaluated is subjective, we all react in different ways to the points of view of the artists and producers, and the things some might find beautiful, others will find horrendous.

The copyright of the albums and their artwork reviewed in this blog, belong to their artists, producers and record labels, no infirngment intended.

RATINGS

MORE ATmrreviews.tumblr.com