Berklee’s Dorm Sessions has something for everyone

Berklee College of Music’s Dorm Sessions, Vol. II, produced solely by Berklee students, features an intriguing concept and doesn’t disappoint. The comical “Britney Spears’ Boyfriend” details the daydreams of a Britney fan well, more like stalker. Producer Nick, who both produces and performs on the track, chants, “I want to see Britney Spears naked / I think she might want to see me naked, too.” The most intriguing track is Blue Light Special’s “Saturday Girl,” a rollicking hoedown (yeah, fiddle and all) from start to finish, coupled with honest, soothing lyrics. However, like every student project, some participants just don’t produce exemplary work. Low points of the compilation include Heather Bright’s TLC wannabe track “Didja” and Iluminda’s annoyingly repetitive “Tiptoe.” Dorm Sessions, Vol. II is diverse and eccentric, offering a peek into the minds of a varied group of college students. Although all the tracks don’t succeed, every punk rock, hip-hop, pop or country fan can find something new to enjoy.

Grade: B+ -Scott Hazleton

Apollo all over the place Apollo Sunshine’s debut album Katonah is misleading. At first, the guitar riffs make it sound like new wave or pop rock but then the direction changes drastically. The Boston-based band starts to lead into easygoing pop rock and then a frantic organ line comes in, and the song “Katonah” becomes a wacky, animated version of its former self. Katonah dabbles in a huge array of styles even within the same song. From little guitar twinges to harder metal riffs, the effect is a disorganized mess. “Sheets with Stars” stands out as the premier track, with George Harrison-like guitar lines, well-placed spacious bass and sweet, sexual lyrics that could make anyone smile, whereas “Happening” attempts a heavy punk burner that truly flops. Consistent with his Ben Folds vocal style, Jesse Gallagher sings “Blood is Wood” as peaceful chords and an upbeat melody contrast with the gloomy lyrics. The guitar solo is reminiscent of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity,” with a Beatles-influenced vocal melody. The final track, “Hot Air Balloon,” sums up Apollo Sunshine’s sporadic style, ranging in sound from Iron Maiden to Bruce Springsteen in a span of three minutes. Although the style and intensity change so quickly, Katonah has its moments of glory with stylish cover art and well-written songs.

Grade: B- -Jon Shulman

Talkie Walkie a breath of fresh Air In their third LP, Talkie Walkie, the unconventionally ambient French duo Air, with co-producer Nigel Godrich (Radiohead, Beck), emits a combination of lounge and retro-electronica to create a sophisticated, downtempo sound. The second track, “Cherry Blossom Girl,” contains elegant lyrical harmonies overlaying guitarist Nicolas Godin’s infectious melodies. JB Dunckel’s use of vocal effects establishes a hypnotic vocal effect in “Run.” Instrumental tracks, like “Alone in Kyoto,” which appears on the Lost in Translation soundtrack, are an evocative whirlwind of music that creates a dreamlike euphoria. Despite a couple tracks that tend to drone with muted instrumentals and monotonous lyrics, the overall album offers an entrancing sound that carries the listener beyond imagination.

Grade: A -Katelyn Romano

Twista returns more mature with Kamikaze After seven years, Twista fans finally have something to celebrate. Kamikaze, the MC’s anticipated follow up to 1997’s Adrenalin Rush, is out and has been worth the wait. Kamikaze has a diverse flow, featuring Twista’s legendary rapid-fire delivery on tracks such as “Higher” and “Kill Us All.” Yet, on multiple tracks, including “Overnight Celebrity,” Twista slows his delivery as he breaks down the trappings of being a hip-hop superstar. The album includes numerous collaborations with artists including Cee-Lo, Jazze Pha and Too Short. The most notable collaboration, “So Sexy” with R. Kelly, features a smooth Pied-Piper beat. And Twista doesn’t forget about the streets. “Pimp On” and “Art and Life” dissect hood life in Chicago’s West Side as Twista touches on drugs, prostitution and violence. Overall, Kamikaze is soulful and mature. Twista continues to produce lyrical and conceptual songs that set him apart from other MCs, and his album presents an artist who his seeking to solidify his presence among hip-hop’s heavyweights.

Grade: B+ -Miguel Tavarez