Lifehouse
"Smoke and Mirrors"
Grade: B
Alternative rock band Lifehouse is back with its latest album "Smoke and Mirrors."
Although listeners are probably most familiar with the band’s hits released in the early 2000s like "Hanging By A Moment" and "You and Me," the new album offers more than sappy love songs.
The first track "All In" proves the band is experimenting with new sounds and is one of the catchiest songs the album has to offer. The song shows off the band’s harder rock elements, but adds playful back beats to create the perfect hit for mainstream radio-play.
Just how much the band has evolved is most evident in the song "Nerve Damage." The song is a complete turnaround in comparison to Lifehouse’s past efforts and is an emo/grunge tune about having a meltdown and losing control.
Despite these changes, the band’s trademark, the raspy voice of lead singer Jason Wade, is still instantly recognizable, particularly in "Falling In," which resembles the band’s earlier work.
It is obvious Lifehouse is attempting to change its sound to appeal to rock-music lovers instead of just teenage girls and some may not appreciate the band’s new Daughtry-like sound.
However, the sound is for the better and has the capability to appeal to a broader audience than it did before and is sure to get mainstream attention.
— mdm
Jason Derulo
"Jason Derulo"
Grade: C-
Pop/R&B singer Jason Derulo has released his self-titled, debut album "Jason Derulo."
Derulo, who released his first single "Whatcha Say" in May 2009, has already seen great success as a new artist. The single sold over 2 million digital copies and reached the No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100 in November.
"In My Head," Derulo’s second single, is much more of an up-tempo song that will please mainstream pop and R&B fans alike.
Though it’s not exactly new or original, the song has already become an official Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 Hit by peaking at the No. 9 spot.
Derulo shoots for a much lighter sound on the song "The Sky’s the Limit," yet still keeps his classic electronic vibe that remains consistent throughout the entire album.
He takes advantage of his falsetto on the song "Love Hangover," which has some nice drum beats that coincide well with the electrosound.
It’s hard to tell how long Derulo will stay around in the industry due to the fact that he brings nothing new or exciting to the table. However, he does already have two hits to his name, so he just might be a two-hit wonder.
The album is currently in stores today and chances are, big fans of his first two singles will enjoy the debut effort.
— jtp
Rogue Wave
"Permalight"
Grade: B+
Rogue Wave recently released its first full-length CD since 2007’s "Asleep at Heaven’s Gate." It is obvious upon first listen that the album is something new for Rogue Wave.
The opening track, "Solitary Gun," is an upbeat song with bouncy hooks and proves just how much the band has changed.
"Good Morning (The Future)" is a prime example of how much more radio friendly the band has become in comparison to past efforts.
While certain tracks like "Stars and Stripes," "Good Morning (The Future)" and "Permalight" illustrate a more danceable version of the band’s past works, "Fear Itself" takes listeners back to a more familiar territory.
Record favorite, "I’ll Never Leave You," could pass as a B-side to Rogue Wave’s second album "Descended Like Vultures."
The aptly titled "We Will Make A Song Destroy" halts the steady stream of cheery pop sensibility and makes way for a more urgent sound.
Clocking in at just less than 40 minutes, "Permalight" showcases Rogue Wave’s concise songwriting abilities.
The album is collectively upbeat and leaves listeners hopeful for sunnier days to come.
"Permalight" is a welcomed addition to Rogue Wave’s collection, and once again, leaves fans anticipating more.
— niy
Jamie Cullum
"Jamie Cullum: The Pursuit"
Grade: A+
Jamie Cullum has given contemporary jazz a refreshing new sound with his new album titled "Jamie Cullum: The Pursuit."
"Just One Of Those Days" showcases Cullum’s vocals and piano skills and is a slow ballad about love. It makes a surprise turn and switches to an upbeat, finger-snapping jazz tune.
Many songs on the album follow a mellow beat featuring only Callum’s vocals and the sounds of his amazing piano skills.
His vocals and piano work well together but never overpower each other.
The only other prevalent sound appearing in the album is the drums, which add to the jazz feel.
The track "Mixtape" features a piano solo in the middle of the song that makes you want to tap your foot as the beat builds back up to the song’s contemporary lyrics and music.
The best song on the album is "Gran Torino." It has soulful lyrics and a laid-back beat that allows you to relax and enjoy the smooth sound.
Cullum does something that many have not seen in this music era–he manages to combine old jazz with contemporary lyrics and beats that allow listeners to escape.
The album is full of soul and sure to impress jazz lovers and offers a different sound for listeners to enjoy outside of the usual mainstream music.
— brm
Be the first to comment on this article!