Home · Reviews · Interviews · Contests · Forums SEARCH ARTICLES Music Reviews The (International) Noise Conspiracy, "Armed Love"Music Review - Sep 7, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella With the release of The (International) Noise Conspiracy's latest, Armed Love, you too can be a dancing fool. All the cool kids are doing it. 12 Stones, "Potter's Field"Music Review - Aug 11, 2004 - By Scott Juba 12 Stones' sound has evolved from their first album, and the results are undeniably impressive. 12 Stones, "Anthem for the Underdog"Music Review - Aug 15, 2007 - By Paul Schultz 12 Stones shows signs of emerging maturity that seasons the new record with palpable progress from their earlier output. It aims to be more radio-ready than any of its predecessors, but still lacks a "hit-one-out-the-park" standout to really get them noticed. 1997, "...a Better View of the Rising Moon"Music Review - Jun 1, 2007 - By Paul Schultz The demographic for this material is squarely with people born not much before the titular year. 1997 might be out of Chicago, but their sound differs favorably from the scads of emo bands spewing forth from the Windy City area. 3 Doors Down, "Seventeen Days"Music Review - Feb 16, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella 3 Doors Down's newest effort Seventeen Days is a bit of a disappointment. Perhaps recording one album in two and a half weeks isn't an ingenious idea after all. 33Miles, "33Miles"Music Review - May 4, 2007 - By Paul Schultz The group's name is a simple metaphor for the 33 years that Jesus spent on Earth, and they hope to get many "miles" out of their unabashedly commercial music in an effort to bring Christ's message to as many people as possible. Musically, how many different ways can you say "sounds like Rascal Flatts"? The Academy Is..., "Almost Here"Music Review - Mar 9, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Indie rock never sounded so good. Newcomers "The Academy Is..." rock out on their debut album. It's worth all the hype it's getting and much much more. Acceptance, "Phantoms"Music Review - May 2, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Acceptance puts out a hook-laden debut LP in Phantoms, but when you cut through all the gloss, it just doesn't stand up to much criticism Adam Fallon, "Slightly Used"Music Review - Aug 9, 2006 - By Scott Juba If it's true that all real talents will eventually be discovered, Adam Fallon is destined to be a star. Adele, "19"Music Review - Feb 7, 2008 - By Paul Schultz The debut album of "The New Amy Winehouse" arrives with some mighty big expectations, but I'm confident that it will withstand the hype and be appreciated for the solid career-starter that it is. Adema, "Adema"Music Review - Aug 15, 2001 - By Vincent Chen Adema's self-titled album will be out in a week but Vincent Chen has an early copy of the CD. Is this new band for you? Find out inside! The Afters, "Never Going Back to OK"Music Review - Feb 12, 2008 - By R.J. Carter Opening with the mysterious yet profound-sounding chorus, this new album from The Afters hooks the listener with intriguing lyrics and edgy guitar riffs. Aiden, "Nightmare Anatomy"Music Review - Sep 20, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella I wouldn't recommend Aiden's Nightmare Anatomy if it were the last album on Earth. Stay far, far away from this CD. Alan Silvestri, "Beowulf - Music From the Motion Picture"Music Review - Jan 11, 2008 - By R.J. Carter For the most part, the music could easily fall under the heading of "Songs to Inspire Galley Slaves." Alesana, "On Frail Wings of Vanity & Wax" [ENHANCED]Music Review - Apr 1, 2007 - By Paul Schultz About three tracks into this I felt like killing myself, and if that's the measurement of success in the screamo genre, then this album is great. This enhanced re-release features two additional tunes, four concert performances and a video interview with the band. Alex Nackman, "Still Life Moves"Music Review - Mar 9, 2008 - By Robert Drysdale On his fifth album, Alex Nackman shows that he has what it takes to rub elbows with the likes of John Mayer and David Gray. Alison Ray, "Downside Up"Music Review - May 30, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Does the D.J. know that Alison Ray's musical debut is nothing short of beautiful? Alkaline Trio, "Crimson"Music Review - Aug 19, 2005 - By Morgan Parsons Alkaline Trio's sixth album, Crimson, takes the band through some radical changes. The All-American Rejects, "Move Along"Music Review - Jul 18, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella One of my most anticipated albums of the year has arrived in The All-American Rejects' Move Along. While it doesn't earn an A+, it is a very solid sophomore album with a lot of room to build. Allister, "Before the Blackout"Music Review - Oct 19, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella With Before the Blackout, Allister returns to a crowded music scene. It's the best we've heard from them, but there is still plenty of room for improvement. The Almost, "Southern Weather"Music Review - Apr 28, 2007 - By Paul Schultz Underoath's drummer/vocalist wrote and plays all the instruments on this side project, and has fashioned a solid melodic rock effort suitable for any kind of weather. Alter Bridge, "One Day Remains"Music Review - Aug 21, 2004 - By Scott Juba Although Alter Bridge carries a different sound than Creed did, fans of Creed shouldn't have any trouble falling in love with this album. Aly & AJ, "Into the Rush"Music Review - Oct 31, 2005 - By Paul Schultz Teen sisters Alyson and Amanda Joy Michalka aspire beyond their pop trappings by tackling subjects relevant to their age group, though their songwriting skills need to mature. Amber Pacific, "The Possibility and the Promise"Music Review - May 3, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Amber Pacific's The Possibility and the Promise is a great album. Look for this Seattle-area punk band to make waves in the future. American Hi-Fi, "Hearts On Parade"Music Review - Jun 21, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella The third album from American Hi-Fi shows a leap of musical maturity and an advanced sound. Hearts On Parade is a solid addition to your CD collection if you love their brand of hook-laden pop-punk. Amy Diamond, "Music in Motion"Music Review - Feb 2, 2008 - By Paul Schultz She has such an appealing voice, but the material on her third album rarely rises above just ordinary. Amy Diamond, "Still Me Still Now"Music Review - Jul 7, 2006 - By Paul Schultz This fourteen-year-old Swedish pop sensation has pulled out the "Big Guns" for her second release, with subtly maturing vocals still firmly ensconced in bubblegum pop. Amy Grant, "Greatest Hits"Music Review - Oct 10, 2007 - By R.J. Carter The timelessness of Amy Grant is made crystal clear in this compilation spanning over thirty years. Anberlin, "Never Take Friendship Personal"Music Review - Feb 2, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Orlando's Anberlin puts out an excellent sophomore album with Never Take Friendship Personal. With this quality of music, I wouldn't be shocked if they really start to catch on. ApologetiX, "Hits: The Road"Music Review - Dec 16, 2006 - By Paul Schultz "That Christian Parody Band" is the byline for ApologetiX, and they are often compared to "Weird Al" Yankovic. The band's talent for mimicry is nothing short of stunning, and this live album is a diverse representation of their capabilities. The Aquabats, "Charge!!"Music Review - May 30, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella The Aquabats release their highly-awaited fourth album, Charge!!, after a six-year span. Is it worth the wait? Definitely. Ari Hest, "Someone To Tell"Music Review - Jan 9, 2005 - By Scott Juba Even when the lyrics are not of the quality they should be, the sterling sound of his voice captivates and keeps us interested. Armor For Sleep, "What To Do When You Are Dead"Music Review - May 10, 2005 - By David Kerschner Armor For Sleep refine their sound in this excellent concept album. Ashlee Simpson, "Autobiography"Music Review - Sep 7, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Ashlee Simpson steps out of the shadow of her sister and manages to steal the limelight on her debut album, "Autobiography". Audio Adrenaline, "Until My Heart Caves In"Music Review - Nov 28, 2005 - By Paul Schultz While sonically living up to their cool band name, this 9th album from Christian rockers Audio Adrenaline suffers from repetitive and simplistic lyrics. Avenged Sevenfold, "City Of Evil"Music Review - Jun 24, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Avenged Sevenfold is back to take over your CD player on their latest album, City Of Evil. Will you fall in love with this album? Probably? I sure did. Avril Lavigne, "Under My Skin"Music Review - May 24, 2004 - By Scott Juba As good as her first release was (good enough to sell over 14 million copies), "Under My Skin" displays Lavigne's tremendous growth as an artist and a person. Moreover, it conveys her unwillingness to settle for anything less than her best. Avril Lavigne, "The Best Damn Thing"Music Review - Apr 22, 2007 - By Paul Schultz It's tempting to chant out, "Hey, hey, you, you, I don't like your album!" but I'd be doing that just for effect, and so is the young Canadian songstress on this pep-rally greatest hits collection of raunchy bubble gum pop-punk. Back Door Slam, "Roll Away"Music Review - Jun 26, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Back Door Slam is a front stoop jam group, combining traditional blues with old school Mellencamp in their debut album. The Band, "A Musical History"Music Review - Oct 7, 2005 - By Dan Weltin This new five CD and one DVD box set chronicles the career of one of rock's most influential bands. Bart Millard, "Hymned No. 1"Music Review - Aug 3, 2005 - By R.J. Carter These songs of comfort simultaneously remind us of when we were growing up, and that, spiritually, we're still growing. Bear McCreary, "Battlestar Galactica: Season 2" SoundtrackMusic Review - Jul 9, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Improving on Season One's achievements, Bear McCreary expands his musical palette to complement the story complexity presented in the Sci Fi Channel hit show's second season. The Beatles, "Love"Music Review - Dec 7, 2006 - By Paul Schultz With dead Beatles spinning in their graves, this soundtrack to the Cirque de Soleil show enlists George Martin and son to tweak and mash-up master recordings from Abbey Road's vault. I can't help but think... "let it be". The Bee Gees, "Greatest"Music Review - Oct 10, 2007 - By Raul Burriel The re-release of a greatest hits album from 1979 loses none of its fire, but does manage to add some fuel. Before Their Eyes, "Before Their Eyes"Music Review - Jul 29, 2007 - By Paul Schultz This new band from Ohio presents a pleasing amalgamation of pop, punk and hardcore. Their attention to the struggles in having a relationship with God makes the work stand out among many others in the genre that wallow in despair. Better Than Ezra, "Before The Robots"Music Review - May 31, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella BTE's 2005 release Before The Robots is to little fanfare and frankly, that's what it deserves. Bianca Ryan, "Bianca Ryan"Music Review - Dec 10, 2006 - By R.J. Carter She wowed them on Star Search, knocked them dead on Showtime at the Apollo, and stole the show on America's Got Talent. Now comes the real test -- the time to prove whether young Bianca Ryan is indeed a star entertainer or a novelty youth act; whether there is any art beyond the otherwise flawless craft. The Black Maria, "Lead Us To Reason"Music Review - Jun 15, 2005 - By David Kerschner Consisting of former members of Grade, Zyon, and New Day Rising, The Black Maria's debut falls short in almost every regard. The Bled, "Found in the Flood"Music Review - Aug 21, 2005 - By Morgan Parsons Even though it doesn't quite measure up to their previous release, The Bled hit near the bulls-eye with Found in the Flood. Bob Seger, "Face the Promise"Music Review - Oct 30, 2006 - By Paul Schultz It's been more than a decade since his last album, but Bob Seger's husky vocals and straight-ahead heartland rock sensibilities are still fully on display. Personal relevance and politically-minded critiques make "Face the Promise" memorable, if musically it seems stuck in a time warp. Bowling For Soup, "A Hangover You Don't Deserve"Music Review - Oct 5, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Bowling For Soup releases their best album yet, complete with the laughs and the music. Maybe Jaret Reddick should be a contestant for Last Comic Standing? Breaking Point, "Beautiful Disorder"Music Review - May 19, 2005 - By Scott Juba Since its inception, Wind-up Records has always had a knack for discovering some of the best new talent in the music industry. Breaking Point's sophomore release, "Beautiful Disorder", reaffirms that reputation. Britney Spears, "Blackout"Music Review - Nov 6, 2007 - By Paul Schultz While it's tempting to characterize this new set as a train-wreck every bit as destructive as her personal life, the overriding impression I got from this album was, "it's the best production money can buy." Bronze Radio Return, "Bronze Radio Return" EPMusic Review - Apr 12, 2008 - By Paul Schultz Their particular intersection of rock and blues touches on the band's potential of genre-busting, but never quite rises above John Mayer/Dave Matthews/Ben Folds mimicry. Bruce Springsteen, "The Rising"Music Review - Aug 1, 2002 - By Vincent Chen Bruce Springsteen re-unites with the E Street Band for their first record in nearly two decades. With the anticipation hyped up so high, Springsteen rises to meet the expectations. Bryan Adams, "Anthology"Music Review - Nov 18, 2005 - By Paul Schultz This magnificent package effectively chronicles twenty-five years of raspy vocals and no-frills rock 'n' roll. Bullet Train To Vegas, "We Put Scissors Where Our Mouths Are"Music Review - Jun 10, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Bullet Train To Vegas' debut album We Put Scissors Where Our Mouths Are doesn't completely impress, but down the road they look to be a formidable band. Butch Walker, "Letters"Music Review - Jan 20, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Butch Walker's Letters slipped under the radar since its August debut; it is arguably one of the better albums to be released last year, despite its relative anonymity. Caedmon's Call, "Overdressed"Music Review - Aug 29, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Derek Webb reunites with the group for this first release under the INO label. Carey Ott, "Lucid Dream"Music Review - Feb 3, 2007 - By Paul Schultz This aptly titled debut is an appealing collection of folky and indie-pop vignettes that draw the listener in with an immediate sense of intimacy. Carrie Underwood, "Carnival Ride"Music Review - Jan 18, 2008 - By R.J. Carter With her sophomore release, country fans continue to fall deeper in love with this sweet little, beautiful, wonderful, perfect All-American Idol winner. Cartel, "Chroma"Music Review - Aug 23, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Are you ready for a bona-fide album of the year contender? Well, Cartel's Chroma is definitely in the mix for that award. This stunning CD is worth a spot in your collection when it releases September 20th. Cascada, "Perfect Day"Music Review - Feb 5, 2008 - By Paul Schultz While this German Eurodance act will never be accused of dancefloor innovation, their latest batch of songs have a beat and you can dance to them and that's their only aspiration. CeCe Winans, "Purified"Music Review - Aug 19, 2005 - By R.J. Carter Purified is the latest in a long string of inspirational R&B/Worship style albums from a woman after God's own heart. Celtic Woman, "A Christmas Celebration"Music Review - Dec 17, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Have yourself a merry little Christmas this year with Celtic Woman and this celebration of fifteen elegantly rendered carols and classics of the season. Chantal Kreviazuk, "Ghost Stories"Music Review - May 3, 2007 - By Paul Schultz For her fourth album, the Canadian singer/songwriter and classically trained pianist eschews guitars in favor of piano-centered tunes with a flair of strings, and offers a familial air of maturity. Charlotte Hatherley, "Grey Will Fade"Music Review - Aug 25, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Ash guitarist Charlotte Hatherley's debut solo album "Grey Will Fade" has just the right amount of pop, indie, and Ash influences to make it a success. Chicago, "At Carnegie Hall, Vol. 1-4 (Chicago IV)" [Original Recording Remastered]Music Review - Aug 23, 2005 - By Paul Schultz Though one of the finest live albums to come out of the 1970's, this set by the horn-infused rock band Chicago has long been derided for its poor sound quality. That has been corrected with this remastered package which includes nearly an hour of previously unreleased performances. Chicago, "Chicago XXX"Music Review - Apr 13, 2006 - By Paul Schultz For being the band's first complete album of original material in over fifteen years, XXX marks the spot and is a lot better than it has any right to be. Chicago, "The Best Of Chicago 40th Anniversary Edition"Music Review - Oct 19, 2007 - By Paul Schultz In celebration of their legacy and longevity, this two-disc retrospective features hits galore, with plenty of edited versions of your favorites. For the casual fan this is a great collection of songs and would make a fine primer for someone new to the band. Circleslide, "Uncommon Days"Music Review - Dec 6, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Circleslide borrows its name from an album title by The Choir, their members as producers, and the font from Sliders. The result is a debut loaded with radio-friendly melodic rock featuring sincere, uplifting (and only occasionally cliché-ridden) lyrics. Clay Aiken, "Merry Christmas With Love"Music Review - Nov 23, 2004 - By Scott Juba Aiken delivers a fine Christmas album that highlights his powerful voice without compromising the integrity of the music he's performing. Coldplay, "Speed of Sound"Music Review - Apr 25, 2005 - By Scott Juba It's been nearly three years since Coldplay's last studio release. Judging by the first single from their forthcoming album, it's been well worth the wait. Coldplay, "X&Y"Music Review - Jun 16, 2005 - By Scott Juba From the epic opener, "Square One," to the intimate closing track, "Kingdom Come," "X&Y" is music at the peak of perfection. Common, "Be"Music Review - Jul 19, 2005 - By Rick Pandorf Common graces us again, this time with Kanye West. Copeland, "In Motion"Music Review - Mar 29, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Copeland returns to the indie scene with their second major LP released on Militia, titled In Motion. Is it one of the best albums of 2005? The Corrs, "Home"Music Review - Feb 18, 2006 - By Raul Burriel The Corrs promise a return to more traditional music with this album but still succeed in delivering a pop treat. The Crash Motive, "Consequence"Music Review - Jan 28, 2008 - By Robert Drysdale Apparently someone thinks that one Maroon 5 simply isn't enough. Crime In Stereo, "Is Dead"Music Review - Nov 11, 2007 - By Robert Drysdale Is Dead offers more than you would expect from a hardcore band. Despite a few weak songs, their latest offering shows a band willing to push beyond the limits of their hardcore roots. Culann's Hounds, "Year of the Dog"Music Review - Mar 18, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Raise a shilelagh and a pint this St. Patty's Day to these Irish punk rockers from the west coast. The Cure, "Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me" [Original Recording Remastered]Music Review - Aug 29, 2006 - By Raul Burriel The Cure's breakthrough 1987 album is re-released as a 2-disc set, and finally featuring the lone orphan song that had been left out in the cold. Cute is What We Aim For, "The Same Old Blood Rush With a New Touch"Music Review - Jun 21, 2006 - By Haleh Stilwell With all the heat surrounding the Buffalo, NY band's debut album, the members are letting the music speak for itself. But is it saying enough? The Damnwells, "Bastards of the Beat"Music Review - Aug 23, 2004 - By Scott Juba While "Bastards of the Beat" may not be the break out album of the year, it proves that The Damnwells are just as good, if not better than, two thirds of the other bands out there. Daniel Rodriguez, "In the Presence"Music Review - Aug 1, 2005 - By R.J. Carter If you're a fan of classical music, or classical hymns, you will take great enjoyment partaking in this latest offering from the Great American Tenor. Daphne Loves Derby, "On The Strength Of All Convinced"Music Review - Jun 26, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Indie darlings Daphne Loves Derby release an altogether enjoyable debut LP with On The Strength Of All Convinced. Give this Seattle-area trio a chance, and you too will discover the magic that DLD reveals. Dar Williams, "My Better Self"Music Review - Sep 19, 2005 - By Paul Schultz Saddled with an unattractive album cover and an off-putting opening song, folk singer-songwriter Dar Williams nonetheless fruitfully explorers her better self as she continues to move beyond her folk roots into edgier musical territory. The Dark Crystal: 25th Anniversary Original SoundtrackMusic Review - Aug 13, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Trevor Jones, whose lifetime achievements include musical compositions for "Excalibur," "Labyrinth," "Dark City," "Merlin," and "Dinotopia," is in fine form here in one of his earlier film scores. Darkest Hour, "Undoing Ruin"Music Review - Jun 9, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Metal never sounded so good. Victory Records' Darkest Hour is back with their fourth album, Undoing Ruin, a disc that will punch you in the teeth and leave you wanting more. Daughtry, "Daughtry"Music Review - Dec 3, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Chris Daughtry may be the most-beloved fourth-place finalist in American Idol history, but does the debut offering from his hand-picked band meet the rock fans' expectations? Days Like These, "Inventure"Music Review - Dec 15, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella By releasing the hard-charging Inventure, Days Like These have shown they're ready to play in the big leagues. dc Talk, "Jesus Freak" (10th Anniversary Special Edition)Music Review - Dec 27, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Mathematical challenges aside, this revisitation to a significant moment in Christian music is a history lesson you'll enjoy hearing. Denison Witmer, "Are You A Dreamer?"Music Review - Jul 26, 2005 - By Rick Pandorf Ten incredibly beautiful songs that will likely be the soundtrack to your very dreams. Derek Webb & Sandra McCracken, "Ampersand" EPMusic Review - May 9, 2008 - By R.J. Carter Musically beautiful, lyrically cryptic, Ampersand is listenable, but becomes elevator music the harder you try to listen to it -- like trying to put your finger on a bead of mercury. Derek Webb, "Mockingbird"Music Review - Jan 19, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Comfortable Christians will find themselves squirming uneasily under Webb's lyrical scrutiny as he continually puts that which is Christlike up against that which is called Christianity. Derek Webb, "The Ringing Bell"Music Review - May 4, 2007 - By R.J. Carter It's a hard sell, "The Ringing Bell", as Webb boldly and unapologetically delivers a new set of Christian-marketed protest songs for peace, cementing him as the Second Coming of John Lennon both musically and philosophically. Diana DeGarmo, "Blue Skies"Music Review - Jan 18, 2005 - By Scott Juba Although DeGarmo reaffirms the fact that she can sing as well as anyone, the material that she's given to work with is far from stellar. The Donnas, "Gold Medal"Music Review - Oct 31, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella The quartet of brash chick-rockers releases their newest effort; will the change in style help or hurt The Donnas? Dougie MacLean, "Inside the Thunder"Music Review - Mar 7, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Each song on this album is good, in and of itself. The problem is in the mix -- or, more specifically, the lack thereof. Down The Line, "For All You Break"Music Review - Dec 20, 2007 - By Robert Drysdale A collection of songs about unrequited love and heartbreak shouldn’t sound this positive. Dr. Zhivegas, "Get Down"Music Review - Jul 4, 2007 - By R.J. Carter If you've got a fever that even more cowbell won't cure, the fever that can only be cooled by boogeying your bottom off, then Dr. Zhivegas has your prescription. Echoing Angels, "You Alone"Music Review - Nov 16, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Fans of Contemporary Christian Music bands like Casting Crowns, Sonicflood and Mercy Me already know that, in Heaven, there's going to be one section devoted to a bodacious rave party. That bill continues to expand for the bands set to perform on stage, and you can now add another to the growing list: Echoing Angels. Editors, "An End Has A Start"Music Review - Jul 24, 2007 - By Scott Juba Although one of the album's main themes centers around the fact that everything eventually comes to an end, after listening to "An End Has A Start," one cannot help but think the Editors' time in the spotlight has only begun. Electric Light Orchestra, "All Over the World: The Very Best of Electric Light Orchestra [Original Recording Remastered]"Music Review - Aug 14, 2005 - By Raul Burriel "All Over the World: The Very Best of Electric Light Orchestra" delivers what its packaging promises. It's unfortunate, though, that even with 20 songs on the CD, you're still not getting the full picture. EleventySeven, "Galactic Conquest"Music Review - Sep 6, 2007 - By Paul Schultz "Upbeat punk" sounds like an oxymoron, but that's what you get here with a vigorous combination of fast tempo, guitar riff, and octave-spanning synth runs. Resistance is futile. Elton John, "Rocket Man - Number Ones"Music Review - May 2, 2007 - By Andrea Maclam The Rocket Man himself turns 60, and gives US a gift .... Emmy Rossum, "Inside Out" EPMusic Review - Sep 13, 2007 - By Paul Schultz The young actress branches out into her first love with this 3-song preview of her forthcoming full-length debut. The tunes rely heavily on Emmy's layered vocals, even to the point of using her voice as a stand-in for instruments. Emmylou Harris, "The Very Best of Emmylou Harris: Heartaches and Highways"Music Review - Aug 10, 2005 - By Paul Schultz This compilation is a retrospective of her three-decade career, with tracks personally selected by Harris, confirming her place as influential songstress. Evan Dando, "Baby I'm Bored"Music Review - Jan 31, 2004 - By Rob Irwin Can you believe there's been no new studio album from Evan Dando since his final outing with the Lemonheads in 1996? Evanescence, "Anywhere But Home"Music Review - Jan 3, 2005 - By Scott Juba Apart from actually attending one of Evanescence's live shows and having a VIP backstage pass, this DVD is as good as it gets. Evanescence, "Everybody's Fool"Music Review - Aug 2, 2004 - By Scott Juba Partly because of Lee's vocal talent, and partly because of their songs' uncompromising lyrics, Evanescence brings an undeniably distinctive sound to their music. Evanescence, "Fallen"Music Review - Mar 14, 2003 - By R.J. Carter If you're one of the many people who found themselves repeatedly murmuring "Wake me up inside" after leaving the Daredevil Movie, then--whether you know it or not--you're already addicted to the hard-driving music of the group Evanescence, a band from central Arkansas that landed two songs--"Bring Me To Life" and "My Immortal"--on the superhero's soundtrack album. Evanescence, "The Open Door"Music Review - Oct 16, 2006 - By R.J. Carter The dictionary provides this definition of evanescence: "the event of fading and gradually vanishing from sight." One wonders if, without some kind of breakthrough into new territory on the next album, the band might not eventually live up to its name. Fall Out Boy, "From Under The Cork Tree"Music Review - May 8, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Chicago's pop-punk darlings Fall Out Boy are back for their third album, From Under The Cork Tree; amusing acronyms aside, will this album stand the test of time? Falling Up, "Exit Lights"Music Review - Dec 22, 2006 - By Paul Schultz This interim remix album of electronic flavored nü-metal is an unexpectedly adventurous CCM offering. The Fire The Flood, "Truth Seekers"Music Review - Aug 10, 2007 - By Paul Schultz This heavy hardcore band strives for intelligent lyrics on their debut, but the same-pitch vocals fail to vary the ideas trying to be expressed. Fireball Ministry, "Their Rock Is Not Our Rock"Music Review - Nov 10, 2005 - By Adam Scholtz Raise your lighters to this throwback to the early days of metal. Flyleaf, "Flyleaf"Music Review - Oct 28, 2005 - By Adam Scholtz Texas based Flyleaf's debut album finally sees light of day, to lots of happy fans. Funeral For a Friend, "Hours"Music Review - Nov 10, 2005 - By Adam Scholtz Gradually taking a turn for a less heavy and more emocore/pop approach, Funeral For A Friend seems to have alienated some fans, however it looks to be a turn for the better. Genesis, "A Trick of the Tail" [ENHANCED]Music Review - Jun 7, 2007 - By R.J. Carter This Genesis reissue includes a DVD with audio tracks, new interviews, vintage music videos, and concert footage. Genesis, "Abacab" [ENHANCED]Music Review - Jun 1, 2007 - By R.J. Carter This Rhino re-release includes a DVD with all the audio tracks, four music videos, and a brand new interview with the band members. George Thorogood & the Destroyers, "The Hard Stuff"Music Review - Jun 2, 2006 - By Paul Schultz You always know what you're going to get with a George Thorogood record, and that's a good thing. Welcome to the blues-rock party album of the summer. Get the Message: The Best of ElectronicMusic Review - Oct 12, 2006 - By Raul Burriel You may never have heard of Electronic, but you'll surely recognize the bands that birthed this moonlighting collaboration. Gladys Hardy, "I Love Jesus, But I Drink a Little"Music Review - May 12, 2008 - By R.J. Carter This comedy CD is just the thing for anyone who's ever had a grandma. In fact, if you play this for your grandma, you may find yourself laughing while grandma merely shakes her head in agreement with the sage advice (all while wondering what it is you seem to find so funny). Gloria Estefan, "The Essential Gloria Estefan"Music Review - Nov 1, 2006 - By Paul Schultz This two-CD retrospective gather's 22 years of hits, primarily of her English-language output. A few omissions aside, this is her most comprehensive set available to date. The Goo Goo Dolls, "Live In Buffalo: July 4, 2004"Music Review - Dec 7, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella The Goo Goo Dolls release a CD/DVD set of one of their most riveting live performances: Independence Day in 2004, in their hometown of Buffalo, NY...in a deluge of rain. Good Charlotte, "The Chronicles of Life and Death"Music Review - Oct 8, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Spiked hair, distressed music, mass hysteria... Good Charlotte must be releasing another album. But is it worth your while? Grace Griffith, "My Life"Music Review - Mar 13, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Griffith's message is one of determination that her troubles aren't going to stop her from enjoying life to the fullest. Green Day, "American Idiot"Music Review - Sep 25, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella President Bush will definitely be removing Green Day's first album in four years from his holiday wish list. The So-Cal punk group's album carries a heavy political message, but does the music get through? Green Day, "Warning"Music Review - Nov 9, 2000 - By Vincent Chen Green Day's new album strikes without warning. Green Day, "Bullet In A Bible" [CD/DVD]Music Review - Nov 13, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella With Bullet in a Bible, Green Day flaunts their live performance prowess to the world. I haven't seen a better-made live release this year; go check it out. Greg Laswell, "How the Day Sounds" EPMusic Review - Apr 26, 2008 - By Robert Drysdale In a sea of similar styled singer/songwriters Greg Laswell manages to stand out from the crowd. Grinspoon, "Thrills, Kills & Sunday Pills"Music Review - Jan 7, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Australia's Grinspoon gives audiences a refreshing dose of boisterous rock. It will be underappreciated, but deserves any praise it gets. Gym Class Heroes, "Papercut Chronicles"Music Review - Mar 21, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Fueled By Ramen Records drops another epic album this year with Gym Class Heroes' Papercut Chronicles. Despite a few flaws, the band's debut simply rocks. Hans Zimmer, "Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World's End" [SOUNDTRACK]Music Review - Jun 10, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Yo ho! All together! The sweeping grandeur of this summer's blockbuster film can be the soundtrack to your personal pirate life. Hawk Nelson, "Gloria" EPMusic Review - Dec 11, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Hawk Nelson are back with a nifty little stocking stuffer for fans of contemporary Christian music. Hawk Nelson, "Smile, It's The End of the World"Music Review - Mar 2, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Running the gamut from mosh-frenzy to lyrically introspective, Hawk Nelson's sophomore release is a fun and frenzy filled punk-pop entry onto the music scene. Head Automatica, "Decadence"Music Review - Nov 10, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Glassjaw frontman Darryl Palumbo's new side project should please most of his current fans. The question is whether it will draw in a new audience to Head Automatica's crazy musical escapades. Holy Roman Empire, "The Longue Durée"Music Review - Aug 2, 2007 - By Paul Schultz Holy Roman Empire features an impressive post-hardcore pedigree, and doesn't sound like anything you would expect from those players. Instead it conquers its audience with melodic rock that is highly accessible. The Honeydrippers, "Volume One" [ORIGINAL RECORDING REMASTERED]Music Review - Apr 4, 2007 - By Paul Schultz Robert Plant's briefly incognito ode to vintage R&B is released with an additional live version of "Rockin' at Midnight". Houston Calls, "A Collection of Short Stories"Music Review - Oct 2, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella A Collection of Short Stories, the debut album from New Jersey's Houston Calls, is a highly-recommended CD for pop-punk fans. Howie Day, "Extras"Music Review - Jul 25, 2004 - By Scott Juba "Extras" is an exceptional compilation of music that reminds us of the power music can convey when written and performed by an artist with genuine talent and uncompromised artistic integrity. Howie Day, "Stop All the World Now" (Special Edition)Music Review - Nov 19, 2004 - By Scott Juba Some people were born to write and perform music. Howie Day is one of those people. I Am the Avalanche, "I Am the Avalanche"Music Review - Nov 16, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Rising from half of the ashes of The Movielife, I Am the Avalanche brings the aggression with their self-titled debut. The Influence, "Pig Radio"Music Review - Nov 20, 2007 - By Robert Drysdale If Pearl Jam, Dave Mathews Band and Seal had a three way love child it would be The Influence. Iron & Wine, "The Shepherd's Dog"Music Review - Oct 31, 2007 - By Robert Drysdale Iron & Wine's latest installment is a worthy addition to any indie collection and likely a must have for fans of Bonnie "Prince" Billy and Wilco. Jack's Mannequin, "Everything In Transit"Music Review - Aug 8, 2005 - By Rick Pandorf Even on a break from Something Corporate, Andrew McMahon delivers. Jackson Browne, "Running on Empty"Music Review - Dec 16, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Jackson Browne's pivotal 1977 album Running on Empty garners a re-release through Rhino Entertainment, and this is worth the money if you don't already own the album. Jade, "Banned in America"Music Review - Aug 18, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Thematically, Banned in America is all over the map. Goth guitars wrestle with electronic techno synthesizers and percussions. James Horner, "The Spiderwick Chronicles" Original Motion Picture ScoreMusic Review - Feb 15, 2008 - By R.J. Carter James Horner's score to Black and DiTerlizzi's modern fairy series just doesn't seem to have the magic of the story, the spark of imaginative wonder that should capture the listener. James Morrison, "Undiscovered"Music Review - Apr 24, 2007 - By R.J. Carter There are a few bright, redeeming spots on the album -- some upbeat, some soft jazz -- that are easily the reason why James Morrison did not remain "Undiscovered"; but on the whole, music fans may be better served by selectively purchasing the singles over the set on this release until Morrison delivers a concept that's a bit more consistent and solid. James Newton Howard, "The Village" (score) [Soundtrack]Music Review - Jul 29, 2004 - By Scott Juba James Newton Howard is one of the few composers that rarely borrows from past projects and constantly generates music with a distinct and memorable sound. James Newton Howard, "Lady in the Water" (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)Music Review - Aug 14, 2006 - By Paul Schultz More than complementing the movie, Howard seems to have been inspired by the fable, and the score also stands on its own outside the context of its visual origins. James Taylor, "One Man Band"Music Review - Dec 11, 2007 - By Doug DeBolt Singer-songwriter treats listeners to a journey down memory lane Jane Monheit, "Surrender"Music Review - Apr 25, 2007 - By Paul Schultz The Bossa Nova Belle moves into more contemporary territory (1960's and onward) on her seventh album, delivering another rich and buttery vocal package. Janine Davy, "Looking for You"Music Review - Jun 16, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Weak lyrics and bad production choices undermine this album of an otherwise talented vocalist. Jars of Clay, "Christmas Songs"Music Review - Dec 23, 2007 - By Paul Schultz Christmas Songs strike a certain reflective mood -- ethereal with rich strings as an overarching motif -- in a thoroughly modern set that "feels" classic, and can easily be enjoyed even beyond the holidays. Jeanne Newhall, "Wild Blue"Music Review - Nov 7, 2006 - By R.J. Carter An accomplished classically trained pianist, Newhall delivers a selection of original light-jazz tunes with sylph-like vocals on par with the work of Phoebe Snow and Joni Mitchell. Jenn Franklin, "Errors & Admissions" EPMusic Review - Oct 18, 2007 - By Paul Schultz This six-song re-release hints at the superb talent that Franklin obviously possesses, while demonstrating how overproduction can submerse it in an ocean of unnecessary sound. Jeremy Camp, "Beyond Measure"Music Review - Dec 19, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Brimming with an air of gratefulness for all of God's blessings, this album grabs hold of you through the sheer sincerity of Camp's pouring out of self. Jerry Garcia, "Garcia Plays Dylan"Music Review - Oct 25, 2005 - By Dan Weltin This new posthumous compilation is a novelty gem for Deadheads, but for everyone else, it can be ignored. Jettie, "Heading For Mornings"Music Review - Nov 4, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Heading For Mornings is Jettie's debut for us Americans, and they've shown just what we've been missing. Jimmy Eat World, "Futures"Music Review - Nov 4, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Developing into one of the more novel music groups of their genre, Jimmy Eat World details what the future holds with their new album. Joal Rush, "Imagination" EPMusic Review - Feb 6, 2008 - By Paul Schultz This South Carolina native's second six-song EP release is filled with tasty singer/songwriter pop/rock in the vein of Edwin McCain. John Fogerty, "The Long Road Home"Music Review - Nov 1, 2005 - By Dan Weltin Only Fogerty and his massive ego would think to combine Creedence and solo tracks onto the same collection. John Mayer, "Continuum"Music Review - Sep 29, 2006 - By Michael Whitethorne The newest release of John Mayer preserves his usual style and features one truly incredible song. John Michael Talbot, "Monk Rock"Music Review - Apr 16, 2006 - By Paul Schultz The title might catch your attention, but spinning this disc is the real revelation. Steeped in '70s country-rock and Jesus Music, this musical time warp delivers a simple and unambiguous message of praise. John Ottman, "Superman Returns" (Music From The Motion Picture)Music Review - Jun 28, 2006 - By R.J. Carter John Ottman does John Williams proud in this rousing score for the Man of Steel's return to the big screen on this CD enhanced with video content. John Stevens, "Red"Music Review - Jul 15, 2005 - By Molly Bishop John Stevens invites listeners to come fly with him on his soaring debut album. John Williams, "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" [Soundtrack]Music Review - Mar 26, 2002 - By Seth Gunderson John Williams returns us to the world of the original trilogy and episode one, while telling us a story about a kid who is treading between good and evil. Johnny Cash, "Cash: Ultimate Gospel"Music Review - Mar 30, 2007 - By R.J. Carter You may be miles away from the nearest old country church, but your troubled soul can rejoin the unbroken circle through the songs that touched a generation with this ultimate collection of Cash's gospel songs. Jonas Brothers, "It's About Time"Music Review - Mar 10, 2006 - By Paul Schultz One part punk and one part Hanson, the Jonas Brothers are poised to take the tween scene by storm with their energenic debut release. Joshua Radin, "We Were Here"Music Review - Jul 17, 2006 - By Sean Conover Zach Braff tells me I should listen. I trust his judgment, if not whole-heartedly his taste in music. Journey, "Escape" [Original Recording Remastered]Music Review - Aug 25, 2006 - By Paul Schultz This reissue of Journey's hugely successful album from 1981 adds live versions of its three biggest hits, and a quirky B-side. Journey, "Greatest Hits" [Original Recording Remastered]Music Review - Aug 23, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Love 'em or hate 'em, you can't get away from them. All the hits are here, with a bonus track added to this reissue. Judas Priest, "Angel of Retribution"Music Review - Feb 28, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella British metal legends Judas Priest have released a new album, their sixteenth, to mixed response. Do they bring back the vintage luster of the band, or is it just a derivative thrash album? June, "If You Speak Any Faster"Music Review - Sep 10, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella With the release of If You Speak Any Faster, June has an opportunity to carve out their own spot in the overcrowded music scene. Will they succeed? The Junior Varsity, "Wide Eyed"Music Review - Jun 14, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella The Junior Varsity is another Victory Records project that looks to hit it big in 2005. All the components are there; the only question that remains is how much will the mainstream media love their debut album, Wide Eyed? Kai Brown, "Better Now"Music Review - Jun 27, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Kai Brown's debut album Better Now is an above-average release with plenty of room for him to grow as a singer and songwriter. Karmina, "The Kiss" EPMusic Review - Oct 5, 2007 - By Paul Schultz They're young, they're pretty, but the real beauty of Karmina is that they are gifted musicians who write their own songs and seem miles beyond the lip-syncing airheads to which they might be unfairly compared. Karon Kate, "Mississippi Stardust"Music Review - Jan 11, 2008 - By R.J. Carter Country music meets the lounge act with this latest collection from Vegas torcher Karon Kate Blackwell. Kasabian, "Kasabian"Music Review - Aug 18, 2005 - By Scott Juba Perhaps Kasabian will reach a level of greatness as their artistic talents mature, but the cumulative result of their debut effort is simply mediocre. Katharine McPhee, "Katharine McPhee"Music Review - Mar 3, 2007 - By R.J. Carter The self-titled debut album from this American Idol favorite is a dance club mix of "hip pop" and modern R&B. Katie Melua, "Piece by Piece"Music Review - May 19, 2006 - By R.J. Carter This sexy sophomore offering from soft-blues chanteuse Melua is the perfect soundtrack for a life noir. Katy Perry, "Ur So Gay" EPMusic Review - Feb 15, 2008 - By Paul Schultz Comparisons include being a Lucille Ball/Freddie Mercury love child, but this feisty up-and-coming musician comes off as unnecessarily crude in this EP preview to her full-length debut due out this spring. Keane, "Hopes And Fears"Music Review - Jun 24, 2004 - By Beth Gottfried The hottest British Import to hit music stands since Radiohead, Keane shimmers, sparkles, and shines in their debut album. Kelly Clarkson, "Breakaway"Music Review - Jan 17, 2005 - By Scott Juba Since her post-American Idol bubble gum songs, "A Moment Like This" and "Before Your Love", Kelly Clarkson's music has matured considerably. With her latest release, "Breakaway", Clarkson adds a rock edge to her sound, producing the best results of her young career. Kelly Clarkson, "My December"Music Review - Jul 6, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Well, it sounds like somebody had a bad breakup, as the pilot American Idol winner delivers a mix of songs that are as angry as they are angsty, as growling as they are grueling. Kevin Manthei, "Justice League: The New Frontier" [SCORE]Music Review - Apr 16, 2008 - By R.J. Carter The man behind the scores of City of Villains, Ultimate Spider-Man, and the upcoming DVD "Batman: Gotham Knight" turns in a stellar performance uniquely written for the style of Darwyn Cooke's story. Killers, The "Hot Fuss"Music Review - Sep 20, 2004 - By Scott Juba Not only is "Hot Fuss" the easy choice for the best debut album of the year, it is also a strong contender for album of the year. Killing Heidi, "Killing Heidi"Music Review - Sep 17, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella One of Australia's finest rock groups releases album #3; after hearing it, you'll wonder why they haven't made a splash in the U.S. yet. Kylie Minogue, "X"Music Review - Feb 12, 2008 - By Paul Schultz The Australian pop star's 10th album could just as easily have been coined "XXX," because it's all about sex. Ultimately, it's just a just a non-earth-shattering collection of well-sequenced dance music. Lacuna Coil, "Comalies"Music Review - Aug 23, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Heaven's a lie. Lacuna Coil said so. Larry the Cable Guy, "Christmastime in Larryland"Music Review - Nov 27, 2007 - By R.J. Carter I was hoping that this new Christmas CD from Larry the Cable Guy would be better than his first. Well, hope springs eternal. Les Paul & Friends, "American Made World Played"Music Review - Oct 13, 2005 - By Paul Schultz For Les Paul's 90th birthday, a slew of talented guitarists fashion a musical birthday present celebrating his influence on rock 'n' roll. Levi Kreis, "One of the Ones"Music Review - Nov 28, 2005 - By R.J. Carter Bittersweet and poignant -- perhaps overly so -- this release is still enough to reveal the promise in Levi Kreis. Liberty N' Justice, "Soundtrack of a Soul"Music Review - Jul 4, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Does lightning strike twice? That's the question posed with this second album featuring an all-star line-up of musicians familiar in Christian rock circles, as well as guest vocalists sure to please the hard rock and hair metal fan. A Life Less Lived: The Gothic BoxMusic Review - Oct 4, 2006 - By R.J. Carter When you're pouring old wine into new vessels like this, you can't really do anything to improve the wine so you'd be best served by dressing up the vessel as sharply as you can. The folks at Rhino have succeeded in this aspect. Lifehouse, "Lifehouse"Music Review - Mar 27, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Alternative radio rockers Lifehouse release their self-titled third album to even less fanfare than the past two. Does this help or hurt them? Lifehouse, "Who We Are"Music Review - Aug 11, 2007 - By Paul Schultz The fourth studio release by Lifehouse reeks of sincerity and is exactly what you would expect of Jason Wade and Co. -- a collection of tunes well-written both musically and lyrically, with a slightly more aggressive feel than their last album. Limp Bizkit, "Chocolate Starfish & Hotdog Flavour"Music Review - Nov 5, 2000 - By George Grant Yup, about time I did something. What better than a review of Fred Durst and co's newest offering. The Listening, "The Listening"Music Review - Jan 22, 2006 - By R.J. Carter The Rock N Roll Worship Circus changes their name but not their tune with this unvaried mix of songs. Live, "Songs from Black Mountain"Music Review - Jun 6, 2006 - By Sean Conover I was excited to hear an album from a group that I've enjoyed for many years. After the first three or four songs, I wasn't necessarily disappointed, but I can't say that I was impressed, either. Liz Phair, "Somebody's Miracle"Music Review - Oct 19, 2005 - By Glen Levy The post-grunge golden girl returns with a largely uninspiring set of songs. Lorene Drive, "Romantic Wealth"Music Review - Sep 4, 2005 - By Rick Pandorf Lorene Drive's debut is packed with emotion, but is it something that will stand out from the pack? Loverboy, "We Are the '80s"Music Review - Aug 26, 2006 - By Paul Schultz The '80s were a kind decade to this Canadian rock band, and this fine compilation gathers all their U.S. chart hits. Lydia, "This December: It's One More and I'm Free"Music Review - Sep 23, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella I am fully impressed by this album, and will continue to be. This December: It's One More and I'm Free is an album that will make you fall in love with the band; my passionate love affair with Lydia is just beginning. Mandisa, "True Beauty"Music Review - Aug 2, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Full of energy and spirituality, True Beauty is the mark of a promising new artist into the Christian music market, who continues to prove the adage that it's better to lose on American Idol than it is to win. Maroon 5, "It Won't Be Soon Before Long"Music Review - Jun 4, 2007 - By Scott Juba Just when it seemed as if Maroon 5 might never release a new album after five years passed since their debut CD, the band that exploded onto the music scene in 2002 returns with their new release, "It Won't Be Soon Before Long." Mary Karlzen, "The Wanderlust Diaries"Music Review - Mar 17, 2007 - By Paul Schultz Filled with up-tempo roots-rock tinged with country, "The Wanderlust Diaries" is a travelogue of diversity that showcases the maturity of a seasoned songwriter. Matt Nathanson, "Beneath These Fireworks"Music Review - Jun 4, 2004 - By Beth Gottfried A fresh new sound out of California? Maybe not...But Matt Nathanson's new album is sure to inspire the need to just "get over it" in all of us. Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs, "Under the Covers, Volume 1"Music Review - Apr 20, 2006 - By R.J. Carter What I particularly like is the faithfulness Sweet and Hoffs exhibit toward the original artists. While Randy Jackson may like to applaud his American Idol hopefuls for making a song their own, there's something to be said for playing a song the way the artist intended it to be played. Mediaeval Baebes, "Mirabilis"Music Review - Sep 3, 2005 - By R.J. Carter The Mediaeval Baebes defy convention and genre, producing tunes both fresh and anachronistic. Megan McCauley, "Better Than Blood"Music Review - Oct 19, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Judging from the cover and title, one almost expects a set of emo/goth/punk razor rock; but this album is a mix of styles that defy expectations by exceeding them. MercyMe, "Almost There" - Platinum EditionMusic Review - Sep 11, 2006 - By R.J. Carter The fifth anniversary of the groups groundbreaking album is commemorated in this double-disc release, featuring alternate versions of "I Can Only Imagine" as well as commentary tracks by lead singer Bart Millard. MercyMe, "Coming up to Breathe"Music Review - Apr 11, 2006 - By R.J. Carter MercyMe sets out to remind their listeners that they are, first and foremost, a rock and roll band. MercyMe, "The Christmas Sessions"Music Review - Oct 4, 2005 - By R.J. Carter These are the classic Christmas songs you grew up with -- but you've never heard them like this before. Michael Bolton, "A Swingin' Christmas"Music Review - Dec 7, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Bolton's holiday release is just the thing for an informal Christmas gathering around the fireplace while sharing your favorite eggnog. Michael McDonald, "The Ultimate Collection"Music Review - Aug 17, 2005 - By Paul Schultz During his stint in the Doobie Brothers, through his successful solo career, Michael McDonald has utilized his songwriting and rich vocal talents to wed R&B, Gospel, and Pop into an adult contemporary mix that proves pervasive. This single-disc compilation draws from all periods of his three-decade career. Mike Doughty, "Golden Delicious"Music Review - Feb 19, 2008 - By Sean Conover There are so many catchy hooks that if you're not careful, you'll get splattered with the sizzle and walk around with some of it stuck in your head all day. Mike Farris, "Salvation in Lights"Music Review - Jun 15, 2007 - By R.J. Carter The former frontman for the Screamin' Cheetah Wheelies delivers a gospel album infused with a gutsy New Orleans Creole sound. Miss Derringer, "Black Tears" EPMusic Review - Feb 9, 2008 - By Paul Schultz Mix artists and musicians with punk backgrounds, and what do you get? That's right: girl-group pop of the late-50s and early-60s with a trans-generational concoction of Goth rockabilly. Modest Mouse, "Good News For People Who Love Bad News"Music Review - Jan 5, 2005 - By Scott Juba After listening to this disc, I understand why the band includes the word "modest" in their title. With this release, they certainly have nothing to brag about. Mr. B and Bob Seeley, "Back to Back"Music Review - Oct 21, 2007 - By Paul Schultz A first glance at the track listing will have you seeing double, as two titans of boogie-woogie piano showcase their talents on jazz and blues standards. MXPX, "Panic"Music Review - Jun 15, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Punk rock stalwarts MXPX are returning to the forefront of music with their latest release, Panic. Is this every bit as good as advertised? Yes, and more. Natalie Cole, "Love Songs"Music Review - Feb 24, 2007 - By Raul Burriel Another collection of Natalie Cole's hits looks suspiciously like an album released in 2001. But when you've got so many great songs, who's going to complain? Natalie Merchant, "Retrospective 1990-2005" [Limited Edition]Music Review - Oct 14, 2005 - By Raul Burriel One of the great singer-songwriters of the 1990s looks back at her solo career. NEEDTOBREATHE, "Daylight"Music Review - Mar 19, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Bursting with enthusiasm, this hook-filled set is brimming with melodic tunes that are instantly catchy. NEEDTOBREATHE, "The Heat"Music Review - Aug 24, 2007 - By Alex Mason NEEDTOBREATHE sails through the sophomore curse with The Heat, producing a powerful album any band would find worthy. Nevertheless, "Live Like We're Alive"Music Review - Sep 21, 2006 - By Paul Schultz They sound like a hundred other indie emo pop/rock bands you've heard, but dig deeper to hear a message of consistent hopefulness. The New Cars, "It's Alive"Music Review - Jun 6, 2006 - By Paul Schultz New wave rock band The Cars reform, now fronted by the legendary Todd Rundgren. This live album (plus three new tracks) proves that it's not an accident waiting to happen. Nicholas Hooper, "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack"Music Review - Aug 2, 2007 - By R.J. Carter If you're a completist collector of Potterana, then you'll be picking this album up regardless, and probably won't even break open the seal. If, however, you want to enjoy the music of Harry Potter, you may find that you're best served by returning to the first soundtrack. Nickelback, "Curb"Music Review - Jul 3, 2002 - By Vincent Chen Nickelback recently re-released their first ever album "Curb". Is it worth it to re-visit Nickelback's roots? Norah Jones, "Not Too Late"Music Review - Feb 13, 2007 - By Raul Burriel Norah Jones gives us her third album in only five years, providing an eclectic mix of blues, jazz and country. Now That's What I Call Music! 26Music Review - Dec 27, 2007 - By Paul Schultz About every four months sees another compilation, and while the series remains highly predictable, it still delivers a fine sampler of current hits. Nural, "Weight of the World"Music Review - Aug 1, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Nural's debut album, Weight of the World, released on Hopeless Records is a quality listen that may suprise many avid punk fans. Okkervil River, "Black Sheep Boy"Music Review - Jul 1, 2005 - By Vince Victoria Singer/songwriter/frontman Will Sheff has successfully created a 47-minute amalgam of predicaments and emotions based on folk-pop legend Tim Hardin's minute-long, forceful gem, "Black Sheep Boy". Old 97's, "Hit By A Train: The Best of Old 97's"Music Review - Jul 24, 2006 - By Paul Schultz The band's appearance in the movie "The Break-up" will hopefully garner more attention to their music, as will this collection that is more chronological retrospective than greatest hits package. Opeth, "Ghost Reveries"Music Review - Oct 8, 2005 - By Adam Scholtz To many, Opeth is the Beatles of metal music. Will the new album Ghost Reveries provide further proof to the claim? Orchestral Manoeuvers in the Dark: Live: Architecture & Morality and MoreMusic Review - Apr 22, 2008 - By Sean Conover OMD performs a straight-forward, beginning-to-end live version of the groundbreaking Architecture & More, along with a few of their hit singles. Original Cast Recording, "Tarzan - The Broadway Musical"Music Review - Jun 29, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Two Worlds -- Disney and Broadway -- meld into one family, resulting in this largely delightful soundtrack. Our Lady Peace, "Healthy in Paranoid Times"Music Review - Aug 31, 2005 - By Scott Juba To realize the urgent need to take their music to a higher level, perhaps the band should reflect on the lyrics of their1997 hit, "Superman's Dead," in which they proclaimed, "Ordinary's just not good enough today." Painkiller Hotel, "Black Roses"Music Review - Feb 9, 2008 - By Robert Drysdale "Black Roses" is the first step towards Painkiller Hotel's eventual mainstream rock dominance. Panic! At The Disco, "A Fever You Can't Sweat Out"Music Review - Oct 17, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Fall Out Boy protege Panic! At The Disco's debut, A Fever You Can't Sweat Out, is a surpisingly good album, but it does have its fair share of flaws. Papa Roach, "Getting Away With Murder"Music Review - Aug 31, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Papa Roach releases their long-awaited 4th LP, Getting Away With Murder amid high expectations and tormented vocals. Do they succeed? Paramore, "All We Know Is Falling"Music Review - Jul 20, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella Tennessee upstarts Paramore look to hit the bigtime with their debut Fueled By Ramen release, titled All We Know Is Falling. One thing's for sure--they're going to win over a lot of fans with this CD. Pat Green, "Cannonball"Music Review - Sep 13, 2006 - By Paul Schultz An undeniable result of hard work, this "Cannonball" may be just the shot across the bow country music needs to awaken to the distinctive talents of Pat Green. Paul McCartney, "Ecce Cor Meum"Music Review - Oct 25, 2006 - By R.J. Carter I would have thought that, if anywhere in his music we'd seen Paul McCartney's heart, it would have been in "Silly Love Songs", not in this somber faux-Mozartian drama. If this is the new state of Macca's heart, Heather must have really made a bloody mess of it. Paul McCartney, "Memory Almost Full"Music Review - Jul 18, 2007 - By Paul Schultz The theme of the new album is "act your age," and Baby Boomers in particular will relate to the reminiscences of youth in this offering intertwining love and nostalgia. Paul McCartney, "Memory Almost Full" - CD/DVD Deluxe EditionMusic Review - Nov 27, 2007 - By Raul Burriel Paul McCartney's latest album gets a second go around with added material, just in time for the Christmas shopping season. Phil Wickham, "Phil Wickham"Music Review - Apr 25, 2006 - By Paul Schultz An earnest slice of acoustic guitar rock that suffers from a somnolent quality, but also exhibits a lyrically integrity worthy of a Christian album. Phillips, Craig & Dean, "The Ultimate Collection"Music Review - Mar 29, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Covering thirteen years of musical ministry, this two-disc collection is a virtual soundtrack for vertical worship. Phillips, Craig & Dean, "Top of My Lungs"Music Review - Aug 27, 2006 - By R.J. Carter "Top of My Lungs represents the kind of praise and worship we want to be a part of," says Randy Phillips, "the kind of worship that holds nothing back." Poison, "The Best of Poison: 20 Years of Rock"Music Review - Mar 10, 2006 - By R.J. Carter Remember the days when Bret Michaels gave you something to believe in? When you were looking for nothing but a good time? This reviewer does. Queensryche - Operation: Mindcrime IIMusic Review - May 12, 2006 - By Sean Conover Is this a good follow up to an amazing album from 1988, or an abysmal failure by a band trying to cash in on a follow up to an amazing album nearly 20 years later? R.E.M., "Accelerate"Music Review - Apr 18, 2008 - By Paul Schultz The recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees jolt themselves out of a prolonged musical somnambulism with their 14th album. This is the disc to trot out to those acquaintances who think R.E.M. can't kick ass. Radiohead, "Amnesiac"Music Review - Apr 12, 2001 - By Alex Keen Radiohead will release "Amnesiac" their follow-up to Grammy Award Winning "Kid A." Here's a first look... Radiohead, "Kid A"Music Review - Oct 3, 2000 - By Alex Keen Coming out today is the Grammy Nominated group's first album in four years. Here's my opinion, track to track. Red Hot Chili Peppers, "By the Way"Music Review - Jul 12, 2002 - By Vincent Chen The Red Hot Chili Peppers have always been famous for revealing their bodies at concerts, but with their new album "By the Way" they now reveal their musical depth. Reel Big Fish, "We're Not Happy 'Til You're Not Happy"Music Review - Apr 6, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella You'll be happy to hear that Reel Big Fish's latest, We're Not Happy 'Til You're Not Happy is another in a string of very good albums released lately Reel Big Fish, "Our Live Album Is Better Than Your Live Album"Music Review - Sep 5, 2006 - By Raul Burriel Equal parts festive and entertaining, Reel Big Fish's self-released album proves to be one of the best live albums to cross my desk in a long time. Richmond Fontaine, "The Fitzgerald"Music Review - Aug 31, 2005 - By Paul Schultz This sparse album from alt-country torch-bearers Richmond Fontaine sets a mood of sadness and desolation in its eleven story songs. Rick Springfield, "We are the '80s"Music Review - Oct 2, 2006 - By Paul Schultz A harmonic convergence of acting and music careers brought this heartthrob stardom in the '80s. This chronological collection showcases his progressive maturity in songwriting and a subtly evolving musical style that transcends his original teen idol status. Robert J. Kral, "Superman Doomsday" Original Soundtrack RecordingMusic Review - Nov 26, 2007 - By R.J. Carter The DVD release itself may have been slightly disappointing, but the soundtrack covers a multitude of sins. Roberta Flack, "The Very Best of Roberta Flack"Music Review - Feb 14, 2006 - By Paul Schultz Filled with one radio staple after another, this compilation showcases Flack's articulate vocals and crafty duets. So do yourself a favor, and catch some Flack. The Rocket Summer, "Hello, Good Friend"Music Review - May 17, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella The Rocket Summer's second album, Hello, Good Friend is an album that goes unparalleled by anything else released so far this year. The Rubyz, "The Rubyz"Music Review - Apr 1, 2008 - By Paul Schultz This teen girl trio is positioned as a moral compass for tweens, and delivers a fun, infectious record, grounded in faith, that is -- I'll say it -- a gem. Rufio, "The Comfort Of Home"Music Review - Jun 23, 2005 - By Tony Pascarella The Comfort Of Home is Rufio's third full-length. Showing maturity, they improve the themes on the new album, but find themselves falling into that same pattern of predictability as on their previous work. Ryan Cabrera, "Take It All Away"Music Review - Jan 2, 2005 - By Scott Juba With his pitiful lyrics and annoyingly predictable instrumental formulas, Cabrera fails to provide listeners with any semblance of a unique artistic voice. Ryan's Hope, "Apocalypse In Increments"Music Review - Mar 16, 2006 - By Tony Pascarella Heavy punkers Ryan's Hope have released a gem of an album with Apocalypse in Increments. Are you listening? Saliva, "Survival Of The Sickest"Music Review - Aug 29, 2004 - By Tony Pascarella Only the loud survive. As Saliva returns to their Memphis roots for their fourth studio album in seven years, one begins to wonder...what will they do next? Sandi Patty, "Falling Forward"Music Review - Apr 6, 2007 - By R.J. Carter Sandi Patti's latest album starts out with a fresh, high-energy approach that, unfortunately, begins wafting ever downward from a mid-album apex.