Madonna has done it again. Nearly 20 years after her debut, she is still making number 1 records. Music debuted at the top of the US charts, and in dozens of countries worldwide. Music finds Madonna still in the electronica realm, but it is more extroverted and upbeat than the subdued and introverted Ray of Light. French producer Mirwais Ahmadzai is the man behind the sound of Music. Previous collaborator William Orbit also contributed to a couple of songs. Madonna's voice is electronically altered and enhanced in several songs, which adds to the diversity and inventiveness of the CD. Her regular voice still sounds great, too. Music is Madonna's 14th album, and one of her best.
Web Link: http://www.madonnamusic.com/
Mark Knopfler - Sailing To Philadelphia
Former Dire Straits lead singer Mark Knopfler has put together an all star musical cast and a superlative CD. In addition to Knopfler's trademark guitar work and distinctive voice, there are guest appearances from James Taylor, Van Morrison, and Squeeze's Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford. Sailing To Philadelphia runs the musical gamut from classic rock to folk to country to blues. It's good to hear Knopfler is still making great music.
Web Link: http://www.mark-knopfler-news.co.uk/
Michael Monroe - Life Gets You Dirty
Finnish vocalist and former lead singer for the 80's glam band Hanoi Rocks Michael Monroe is back. Life Gets You Dirty is a rocking CD that Hanoi Rocks fans will definitely dig. Monroe is a charismatic and powerful vocalist who really sells the songs. The music is hard but melodic. Monroe adds saxophone and harmonica to the mix, which aren't common in heavy metal, but really make the songs stand out. Michael Monroe proves he is still one of the best frontmen and performers in hard rock.
Web Link: http://www.michaelmonroe.sci.fi/
Ninth House - Swim In The Silence
New York's Ninth House is a band to keep your eye on. Swim In The Silence is a sonic journey through rock, pop, goth, blues, country, classical and dance. Lead singer Mark Sinnis' voice sounds a bit like Jim Morrison with just a touch of Richard Butler from the Psychedelic Furs. The songs are densely layered and complex, but the excellent production keeps the sound melodic. Swim In The Silence is a diverse, eclectic, very listenable and highly recommended CD.
Web Link: http://www.ninthhousemusic.com/
No Question - No Question
Philly veterans Boyz II Men have a new CD this month, and so do Philly newcomers No Question. That is appropriate, because No Question are similar to Boyz II Men. No Question has great harmonies, a touch of old school, and a bit of an edge, too. No Question is a mix of doo wop and hip hop, a great new style of R&B. The songs are catchy, the harmonies are tight, and the production is first class. I hate to resort to the obvious cliché, but there is no question that No Question has a bright future.
