May 2001's Best New CDs: A-L

Welcome to the May reviews. The weather is starting to heat up, and so are the CD releases. There are at least a couple new CDs this month that will definitely make the best of 2001 year end list. Here’s how we select which CDs are featured. Out of the large number of CDs released each month, we listen to dozens and dozens of them and select what we believe are the best, and feature them here. The great thing about pop music is that it’s such a wide and inclusive genre, which is represented in the reviews. Popular music includes pop, rock, dance, country, alternative, metal, punk and more. You’ll read reviews about superstars on major labels, but you’ll also hear about brand new artists, or artists on small independent labels that are very talented and deserve to be heard. We’re always interested in your feedback, so if you have a comment or question on the reviews, Send an email ! Let’s get to this month’s best new CDs, in alphabetical order:

Bastards of Melody – Fun Machine

These bastards sure know how to write a hook. Fun Machine is a pop-punk joyride that lives up to its name. The group’s sound is an interesting mix of eighties alternative groups like the Replacements and the Pixies; punk rock like Green Day or Weezer; and a little bit of country twang. The melodies are memorable, the guitar work is top notch, and the lyrics are intelligent and entertaining. The combination makes for an impressive full-length debut, and it also makes for a promising future for Bastards of Melody.

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

Cowboy Junkies – Open

This CD is backwards. Usually the best songs are at the beginning of a CD, and as you progress, they get weaker and weaker. The exact opposite is the case on Open, the 11th album from Cowboy Junkies. The opening tracks are pretty good, but they keep getting better and better until the CD ends, leaving you wanting more. Cowboy Junkies are rocking a little harder than they have in the past, but the band’s patented sound is still there. Margo Timmons has one of the most beautiful and haunting voices in music, and the band can go from quiet reflection to all out rock without missing a beat. Open gets better with each listen.

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

Depeche Mode – Exciter

Hundreds of synth bands have come and gone in the 20 years Depeche Mode has been making music, and there’s a reason Depeche Mode is still around. They have always written great songs, and continue that tradition on Exciter. There’s nothing groundbreaking here, just well-written songs about death, depression, pain, angst, fear and loathing. Depeche Mode has always had a gift for mixing dark moods and lyrics with music that makes you want to dance. The original Goth band is in fine form, and Exciter shows Depeche Mode still has some gas left in the tank.

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