Web Link: http://www.mp3.com/gspotband
Chris Isaak - Always Got Tonight
If Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, and Mariah Carey can cross over into acting, why not Chris Isaak? He's proven to be a better musician than any of them, and if you've seen his Showtime TV show, he is a better actor, too! Isaak is known for his crooning ballads, and there plenty of those on Always Got Tonight. There are also a greater than usual number of up-tempo rock and rockabilly songs, which is a nice change. The common denominator of the songs is they're about love, and usually lost love, or unrequited love. You'd think somebody that looks and sings like Isaak would be a babe magnet, but his melancholy is our gain.
Web Link: http://www.chrisisaak.com/
London Quireboys - This Is Rock'N'Roll
Back in the early 90s, the London Quireboys released a very successful pop-metal debut album. Their follow-up tanked, and the band disappeared. Ten years later, they're back with a strong comeback CD. Spike Gray's raspy voice (imagine Rod Stewart after gargling with razor blades) is in fine form. The London Quireboys haven't strayed far from what made them popular in the first place, up-tempo rock and roll with blues and metal influences. This Is Rock'N'Roll is filled with great guitar licks, big hooks, and an overall good-time party vibe.
Web Link: http://www.quireboys.com/
Alanis Morissette - Under Rug Swept
Alanis has found the middle ground on her third CD. She's not as pissed off as on Jagged Little Pill, and has toned down the spiritual psychobabble from Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie. Under Rug Swept is a nice mix of reflection and angst. Morissette took total control of this CD, not utilizing Glen Ballard, who produced her first two efforts. She proves herself a very good producer, mixing in clever trip-hop rhythms along with her folk/pop. She also rediscovered her rock and roll side on Under Rug Swept, and learned an important lesson about leaving the audience wanting more. It's lean and mean, with only 11 songs. It's also an enhanced CD, with access to videos, unreleased songs, and a secret website.
Web Link: http://www.alanis.com
Eamon O'Tuama - Behind Every Life
Irish born New Yorker Eamon O'Tuama has been called the Irish Bruce Springsteen. High praise, but well deserved. Behind Every Life combines traditional Irish music with modern rock, pop, and folk. O'Tuama's voice sounds more like Billy Corgan than Bruce Springsteen, but he does share the Boss's musical passion and gift for writing powerful songs that paint a vivid picture that draws in the listener. Behind Every Life is a compelling and eclectic collection of glorious Celtic-flavored music.
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