January 2001 CD Reviews

Jennifer Lopez – J-Lo

J-Lo is a quantum leap from Jennifer Lopez’ first CD. Her singing has gotten stronger, and the songs are much better. The production on J-Lo is first-rate, with superstar producers Ric Wake and Rodney Jerkins, and of course, her boyfriend Sean “Puffy” Combs. Lopez shines brightest on the up-tempo R&B flavored pop tracks. Her feisty attitude combined with the driving beat of the music compels you to get up and shake something. J-Lo is also flavored with some Latin pop and ballads. Jennifer Lopez doesn’t have the pipes of a Mariah Carey or Celine Dion, nor does she claim to. She is a pure entertainer, like Madonna or Janet Jackson, and has the charisma to make it work.

Web Link: http://www.jenniferlopez.com

Amy Ray – Stag

Amy Ray is half of the Indigo Girls. She’s had her own indie label, Daemon Records, for over 10 years and released many CDs by other artists, but this is her first solo effort. Stag is a return to Ray’s rock/punk roots. Many of the songs are angry and rebellious, dealing with Ray’s feelings about the music industry, society, and even her own shortcomings. These songs rock much harder than the Indigo Girls, but those great pop hooks are still there. Ray worked with some very talented musicians on Stag, including Joan Jett, Danielle Howe, and the North Carolina punk band The Butchies. It’s a liberating solo debut, and hopefully we won’t have to wait another 11 years for the next one!

Web Link: http://www.daemonrecords.com

Rick Springfield – Greatest Hits Alive

Rick Springfield is hot again. He just completed a 150 city concert tour, has been acting on Broadway and TV, and is starring in the award winning musical “EFX” in Las Vegas. Alive is Springfield’s first live recording, and a must have for fans. It’s filled with a combination of his greatest hits and newer material. The songs have a harder edge live, and Springfield’s energy is remarkable. He has the ability to make songs from 20 years ago that he has sung thousands of times sound fresh and exciting. This proves that 80’s icon Rick Springfield is Alive and well in the 21st century.

Web Link: http://www.rickspringfield.com

Michael Sweet – Truth

Long before Creed, there was Stryper. They were one of the first Christian bands to make it in the mainstream. Their lead singer was Michael

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