CD
Oral Responsibility
Columbian singer/songwriter Shakira springs back into the North American music scene with her English-language album Oral Fixation Vol 2. The album follows the release of the Spanish-language Fijacion Oral, Vol. 1, differing not only in language but also in attitude. While Vol. 1 can be summed up as lively, Vol. 2 offers more of a glimpse into Shakira’s personal tribulation. Elaborating on her already unique voice and rock-diva style, Shakira expresses passion, strength and maturity in this definitely distinctive album.
– Sasha Yakhkind
DVD
What’s Cooler than Being Cool?
Greg Behrendt is uncool. Not only is that mantra the title of his new DVD but also the focal point of his routine. Behrendt is a young comic with a clear idea of how to make people laugh: by making fun of himself. With a great segment about Pictionary, this DVD provides consistent humor throughout.
– Eli Dresner
CD
I Believe in a Thing Called Hell
The English lads of The Darkness deliver their trademark ’80s hair-band infused rock … plus a little extra on their latest disc, One Way Ticket To Hell … And Back! Showing that they still believe in a thing called love – at least writing wise – most of the album’s 10 tracks hover around the three-minute mark and focus on women. Some songs are about a “Girlfriend,” while others are about “Knockers” and overall, most songs are, expectedly, centered on blistering guitar riffs and heavy drumming. The group’s latest attempt may not be a trip to Heaven, but it is far from Hell.
– Tracie Faulk