Baggage claim, please

Dolores O'Riordan
"No Baggage" album
Released: August 24th, 2009





Throughout popular music there have been several lead vocalists who have gone solo and been successful (Beyonce, Stevie Nicks, Justin Timberlake...to name a few.) Then there have been those who just can't seem to distinguish themselves from their former band members. Which brings us to Dolores O'Riordan of The Cranberries. Since the band's hiatus in 2003, O'Riordan has struck out on her own.

On her second solo album, "No Baggage," O'Riordan crafts some wonderfully harmonious tunes. The album kicks off with the one-two punch of "Switch Off the Moment" and "Skeleton." From here, the songs waiver between soft piano driven ballads and world-music inspired jams. Unlike her first solo effort, O'Riordan is taking some risks that separate her music from the Cranberries. The hypnotizing tribal beats of "Throw Your Arms Around Me" is one of the album's highlights. However, the tunes are still missing the beautiful guitar hooks and shimmering pop moments of the work with her former band. Perhaps it's no coincidence then that on the day this album was released, O'Riordan announced the Cranberries were reforming for a tour and recording a new album. O'Riordan's solo work is definitely worth a listen, but thankfully she's returning to the band that made her famous.

Watch music video for "The Journey"

'Til My Head Falls Off

Yeah Yeah Yeahs
"Heads Will Roll" single
Released: June 29th, 2009





There I was in Hastings one day when I heard this incredible song pulsating from their speakers. The voice immediately grabbed me... was it Siouxsie Sioux... no, not quite witchy enough... who could this be? I found myself bobbing my head, strutting from aisle to aisle with the throbbing punk meets dance beat. Then the Hasting's guy reminded me... it's the Yeah Yeah Yeahs! Of course, how could I confuse Karen O.'s distinctive voice? "Heads Will Roll" is perhaps the groups strongest single of their nearly decade career. The teasing synth introduction with Karen O.'s demanding call for decapitation sell the song immediately. From there are calls to "dance, dance, dance 'till your dead!." Just don't be surprised if your head really does fall off in the process.

Watch music video
(Be sure to watch the incredible "Thriller"-esque video!!)

Abnormally attracted to tedium

Tori Amos
"Abnormally Attracted To Sin" album
Released: May 19th, 2009




As a longtime fan of Tori Amos, I must confess I'm rather bemused by her latest release, "Abnormally Attracted To Sin." On her tenth studio album, Amos ventures into ethereal, prog rock territory. Amos has stated in interviews that the album is meant to be a sonic 'steam bath.' With a focus on sultry vocals, spacey synths and lyrics about temptation, she succeeds.
However, the problem with this entire release is the tedious 72 minute, 17 track length. If one were to play the entire album while in a steam bath, they'd end up pruned beyond recognition. Amos' inability to pare down her songs hinder her from creating a solid masterpiece.
The albums opening track, "Give," perfectly sets the tone for the proposed atmospheric, subdued journey. Several incredible arrangements follow, but good luck in staying awake long enough hear them. Amos asks a lot of patience from her fans. If you can't make it through the entire release, be sure not to miss "500 Miles," "Mary Jane," and the straight-out-of-Twin Peaks closer, "Lady In Blue."

Watch music video for "Welcome To England"
As a bonus, Amos has included stunning 'visualettes' for each song, sans "Mary Jane." If you are to purchase the album, spend the extra $5 and buy the Deluxe DVD edition.