Wolf" opens this 1982 major-label debut, its tough-ass romanticism is quickly plowed under by memories of a motel bed "with rubber sheets" and two heartrending songs about Exene Cervenka's sister Mirielle, who'd been killed in a car crash. In fact, even without "Blue Spark," this would easily qualify as the group's most indigo record yet; the second half offers a lovingly surf-music-tinged remake of an old Tin Pan Alley tune, "Dancing with Tears in My Eyes" and "The Have Nots," whose alcohol-soaked social comment clings so fiercely to mournfulness that hardly a wisp of punk anger can take hold. Rootsier than X's previous albums, Sun updates noirish dread with guitar wisdom. This remaster includes five bonus tracks, including the original mix o...  (less)

whole album, exudes a unique sort of continuity. Big Black Hole has some of the most up beat moments of any Sean Hayes albums. In addition to the usual voice and guitar, there is electric bass, drums, piano, wurlitzer, & some trumpet, baritone horn and tuba throughout the album. Beautiful singing, innovative playing, amazing unique songs with such variety, this album, from beginning to end is a really fun ride.  (less)

over many styles is because the band members are such obvious fans of diverse music. Nowhere is this more apparent than on Monkey Business ’s high-profile guest list. After Justin Timberlake’s contribution to the massive "Where Is the Love" breakout hit from Elephunk , their inclusion of big names once again was a smart, respectful move on the part of the band as well as their guests. "My Style" is Timberlake’s BEP foray number two; while the song is funky pop fun, those looking to hear Justin in the forefront are likely to be disappointed, as his vocals are mixed evenly, no sweet soulful solos this time. Other guests of note are Jack Johnson, who cowrote the bling-bashing "Gone Going," Sting on "Union" (sonically inspired by the former Police-ma...  (less)

leavens their garage blues with enough innovation to keep things interesting, taking full advantage of Dan Auerbach’s full-throated growl. Particularly appealing are "Hard Row," which lurks somewhere between Cream and punk rock, the strong stomp of "Everywhere I Go," and the irresistible guitar riff that graces "If You See Me." The Black Keys might be covering familiar territory, but they do it so well--and with so much invention--that one is inclined to yield it to them and see what they do with it. --Genevieve Williams  (less)

introduce them to U.S. audiences by presenting the best songs from two of their earlier releases, Up and Play . Unlike most Celtic-rock fusion bands, Great Big Sea eschew electric guitars and synthesizers in favor of acoustic guitars and traditional instruments like bodhran, bouzouki, fiddle, flute, and whistle. But on tracks like "The Old Black Rum," a rousing drinking song in the Dubliners tradition; the moving ballad "General Taylor"; or their cover of R.E.M.'s "End of the World," their instrumental prowess and powerful vocals more than make up for the lack of electric instruments. Not only have Great Big Sea scored hits with previously archaic song forms like sea shanties, drinking tunes, and ballads, they make these old songs rock. --Michael Simmons  (less)