Latest releases reviewed
HAL What A Lovely Dance Rough Trade **
Love grows where this south Dublin quartet goes. OK, they're not quite Edison Lighthouse, but this song is so jolly, it'll remind you of those chirpy tunes from your dad's childhood. And it's so damn catchy, your kids will remember it when they're grown up.
TEARS FOR FEARS Shout Mercury **
TFF are back to rule the mad world with a greatest hits album and an upcoming tour. Shout along to this all-too-familiar classic if you must, but do avoid the dinky-donk dance remixes by Skylark and Fergie.
ASHANTI Only U The Inc Records ****
A crunchy, tasty backtrack forms the basis for this slinky, seductive tune from the New York r&b diva's new album, Concrete Rose. And no wanksta doing a dumbass guest rap. Ashanti will soon star as Dorothy in The Muppets & The Wiz - much respect.
MERCURY REV In A Funny Way V2 *****
One of the best tracks on their new album, The Secret Migration, this is a Hawaiian Luau, a doo-wop beach party and a psychedelic dream sequence all rolled into one. Who says music magic is dead?
CIARA Goodies Zomba ***
Kelis had her milkshake, but this 18-year-old Atlantean has the goodies - her Crunk 'n' B anthem has already jiggied its way to the top of the Billboard Hot 100. And the remixes by Richard X and Johnny Toobad will bring all the boys 'n' girls to the dancefloor.
FEIST Inside and Out Polydor **
This is the Bee Gees' classic, Love You Inside Out, given a smooth, satin sheen by the Canadian chanteuse. By the time you deck it, though, you're already happily humming along, and your friends are looking at you like you've suddenly turned into a swiss cheese.
THE USED Take It Away Reprise **
The week wouldn't be complete without a nice, shouty nu-metal anthem to shake off the cares of the office. These guys are well pissed off about something or other, but who cares? Loosen your tie, throw your briefcase into the corner and wig out to the screamo sound.
