Citizen Cope
"The Rainwater LP"
Grade: B
Citizen Cope’s latest album, "The Rainwater LP," gives fans more of the same singsong voice with the almost ethereal feel the artist is famous for.
This album is the first released by the artist’s own label, RainWater Recordings Inc., because he wanted to have complete control over the album.
"Healing Hands" is one of the stronger songs on the album and seems incredibly Hendrix-influenced with its haze-like sound and fantastic guitar solo.
"Lifeline" is very similar to the artist’s most famous song, "Sideways," yet is unique enough so fans won’t feel like they’re being given the same thing.
"The Newspaper" has an almost noir feel to it and may perhaps be the best song on the album due to its piano tune and Cope’s voice.
Not all songs were good, though, with "I Couldn’t Explain Why" playing as if it was stolen from an Incubus album –not a bad thing but somewhat unexpected.
The hip-hop feel in "A Father’s Son" is a nice touch, but the song itself is repetitive and forgettable, especially the bass line.
Fans of Cope’s work in the past should enjoy this album, and it’s a great jumping on point for new fans, but "The Rainwater LP" isn’t a solid hit.
— jac
Debi Nova
"Luna Nueva"
Grade: B
Costa Rica–native, Debi Nova, is the latest craze in the multicultural music scene.
Her unique sound is a multicultural beat, which includes instruments such as the conga drums.
Hit single "Drummer Boy" is an upbeat song with a rhythm that makes listeners want to dance. It combines powerful drums and piano with her heavily accented singing voice to create a nonstop dance beat.
The distinct lyrics and accent offer something different and provide a good change of pace.
Nova’s voice has a Costa Rican accent and is similar to artists like Shakira and Rihanna, who also add a bit of spice to their music to create a style of music all its own.
"Ashes and Pearls" is a traditional ballad that shows off Nova’s vocal talent. The song is a mellow track that gives listeners a break from the hyperactive dance songs found throughout the album.
"Something to Believe In" is also a slower song that features the alternative rock band Citizen Cope. The song offers inspirational lyrics and allows listeners to hear Nova join with a band different from herself.
Listeners who enjoy music from other cultures and are looking for something different to get into will enjoy this album.
— brm
Frightened Rabbit
"The Winter of Mixed Drinks"
Grade: B
"The Winter of Mixed Drinks" is indie–rock band Frightened Rabbit’s third full-length studio album.
Frightened Rabbit is originally from Scotland, and the group has added new members since its last release, "The Midnight Organ Fight."
Many songs on "The Winter of Mixed Drinks" are artfully constructed pop stylings.
"Swim Until You Can’t See Land," is one of the better tracks on the CD.
It’s more than four minutes long and provides listeners with a poppy, sing-along single.
Scott Hutchinson does a lovely job with his vocals throughout the CD.
His emotions are heartfelt, and the rawness of the album’s lyrics match his powerful voice.
Listeners can hear examples of this on "Nothing Like You."
Thematically, the album portrays an optimistic outlook, like on the tracks "Not Miserable" and "Living in Colour."
The addition of extra band members Billy Kennedy, Gordon Skene and Andy Monaghan has been favorable for Frightened Rabbit.
The band is currently on tour and will be performing at this year’s SXSW festival in Austin, Texas from March 17 to March 21.
— niy
Groove Armada
"Black Light"
Grade: C+
British electro-pop duo Groove Armada recently released its ninth album, "Black Light," and it might fail to impress listeners unfamiliar with the group.
"Warsaw" features ultra-heavy electronic music and shouted lyrics, which may be difficult for listeners to decipher.
There are also a number of strangely placed noises that may distract listeners who have ADD.
"History" starts with tight, martial drumming but quickly dissipates into ’80s-esque synth pop and aloof vocals.
The song could be a hit with listeners nostalgic for the Reagan years.
"Just For Tonight" is a good way to end the CD.
It has a wide open sound compared to the album’s earlier heavy, driving electronic noise.
"Black Light" as a whole is reminiscent of ‘80s synth pop.
While this isn’t a terrible sound, it feels dated when performed by musicians today.
Groove Armada is able to do some interesting things with its take on electro-pop.
The duo is also talented and features collaborations with numerous musicians.
However, the album fails to leave much of an impression and may annoy listeners who aren’t fans of synth and electro music.
— mwa
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