In this thread I will be keeping you all up to date on CDs that are 'spinning' on my Winamp's playlist right now, as well as albums that were pleasant..albeit unexpected...surprises. == Kelly Osbourne - Sleeping In The Nothing: A- Ah yes, how can any of us forget Kelly Osbourne; Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne's bratty lovechild..whose debut album was interesting display of the young girl's vocal talents (Alright, it sucked.). "Shut Up" was a cheesy attempt to shoehorn her bratty 'I dont need your authority' attitude for the MTV masses, which didn't fall lightly on the critics who gave it a 2 out of 5 stars and often a D- for it's final grade. Surely "Shut up" Kelly Osbourne, would have no chance to ever really be taken seriously as an artist, right? Well not neccesarily. It's time to take any preconceived notions you had about Kelly Osbourne's vocal range and throw them out the window. Back is a fresh out of rehab, more mature and older Kelly Osbourne and the difference couldn't ever be more shocking. Gone is the Ashlee Simpson style vocal range we've come to know from Kelly, and in its place is a voice that you'd be hard pressed to believe was hers unless told first beforehand. With co-writing credits on every song on the album, Kelly digs deep in lyrics that directely deal with her pain during drug rehab, as well as the frustration from badly failed relationships and friendships. Kelly delivers the vocals on these songs surprisingly well, with the most editing on vocals coming in the form of distortion rather then actual 'vocal help'. More shocking than the transition vocally, is how drastically the two CDs sit apart from one another. In a move that some would consider risky, Kelly has completely abandoned the cliche 'pop-punk' sound in an exchange for a purely 80's (Vice City) new wave synthesizer sound..with some songs bordering what you would call 'experimental'. This risk succeeds well, which could be considered amazing considering Kelly was only a baby when the majority of her 80's influences were controlling the airwaves. Overall, the album is a nice CD for anyone who's a fan of that signature 80's sound, and who may listen to dance music here and there. The style may be a little too synthesized for some, but for those who have an open mind, you may find a decent CD to put in your car on the way to the club, or local hangout with your friends. Best songs on the CD (ranked by appeal) "I Cant Wait" "Suburbia" "Uh Oh" "One Word" "Redlight" ==== Staind - Chapter V: A+ After the dismal fan reviews of their last CD (or possibly lower than usual sales, take your pick) it appears that Staind have finally listened to the public opinion. Chapter V is a long-awaited return to their Dysfunction days with an equal amount of Break the Cycle/14 Shades songs to balance out the equation. The first thing you will notice putting "14 Shades of Grey" and "Chapter V" together is that Chapter V is much heavier then Staind's previous album (14 Shades of Grey). With the lyrics being some of Aaron's most addictive to date, Chapter V features some 'classics' that will be sure to be on Staind Fans' "Favorite Song" lists for years to come. More importantly, Staind has introduced some new tricks up their sleeves as musicians. Most noticably is the interesting steps taken on guitar as some songs feature some guitar styles you wouldn't normally expect from Staind, but wouldn't cast as 'unwelcome' in the first place. Chapter V still has the ballads that made Staind accessible to the public, but these songs on first and future listens have more of an impact then most if not all of the songs found on "14 Shades of Grey". Overall, Chapter V is a welcome maturation for Staind. This CD brings the aggression that the fans have been hungry for, for so long, while delivering songs have not only have a message but a true meaning as well. If you're a fan of hard rock this is one CD you would find yourself foolish to miss. 2005 is but a mere few months from coming to a end and it appears that we might already have a running nominee for Album of The Year in Staind's "Chapter V". Best songs on the CD (ranked by appeal) "Please" "Devil" "Paper Jesus" (most like Dysfunction) "Run Away" == More reviews to come soon..check this post.
Great Reviews. I love Staind's new CD and you explained it perfectly. I'll have to check out the recommended Kelly Osbourne songs though.
Do I need an IPod to make a podcast? I never really looked it up. [/b][/quote] Nope, any mp3 player can play podcast audio. It's getting easier now to start making a podcast. <O>.<O>
Great Review Derek. I might actually give Kelly Osbourne a chance. I'm going to write a review for 30STM's A Beautiful Lie when it comes out on the 30th.
I'd actually love to work for a music site. Do you need a journalism degree to apply? . CD Reviews to come: Foo Fighters - "In Your Honor" Coldplay - X&Y (Late, but it will come with a review of the concert this Sunday ).
Dont get me wrong, I loved a few songs on it. I was just disappointed (as were many fans) that the aggression I loved from Staind wasnt there. It was a soft album by Staind's standards, and I wanted something I could rock out to. Staind to me, were always a rock out band.
I'm loving Chapter V, only song I really don't like is King of All Excuses. Favorites would have to be, Please, Trippy, Everything Changes, and Reply. Run Away sounds awesome aside from the chorus, which could have been better, but it's still a good song.
Chapter V is definately Staind's best since Dysfunction, i'm still deciding which is better. I've been turned off Kelly Osbourne ever since she performed at the Australian VMA's. She sung live and oh how it was abysmal.