Singles & Albums: February 24

Feb 24 2008 By Mickey McMonagle & Avril Cadden

THE CHARLATANS - OH VANITY *****

This is a throwback to the band's glory days, with Tim Burgess' low-key vocal weaving in and out of a lovely Hammond organ riff. Driven by pounding percussion, fans will love it. Hopefully it's an indicator that a stunning album is coming.

THE CRIBS - I'M A REALIST/ B******* OF YOUNG ***

The laid-back vibe of the track contrasts with Ryan Jarman's sarcastic, snarling vocals. It's not as chaotic as some of their tracks and should find plenty of radio play.

THE HIVES - WE RULE THE WORLD ***

Recorded with Pharrell Williams, this is funky with an old school, 70s disco vibe. It takes a while to get used to but grows on you and is backed with remixes by Arctic Monkeys' Matt Helder and Nick Zinner from Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

MGMT - TIME TO PRETEND ****

This has a weird, bleepy synth riff that sounds like something from an early Atari video game bubbling along on top of a 70s-style, laid-back, pop song. Think Magic Numbers meets Flaming Lips meets Arcade Fire and you come close to their fresh, exciting sound.

MY AMERICAN HEART - BOYS GRAB YOUR GUNS **

The latest pop-punk outfit off the assembly line serve up a formulaic number that offers little new or fresh. There's a decent enough chorus and strong lead guitar riff but overall it is a really average song.

GOLDFRAPP - SEVENTH TREE *****

Alison Goldfrapp and Will Gregory have created a wistful, dreamy, warm and sensual album with layers of arrangements and impeccable vocals that at times evoke images of Kate Bush, especially on Eat Yourself. A stunning album that gets better with every listen.

JUST FOR YOU - VARIOUS ARTISTS ***

Released with Mother's Day in mind, this double CD has 40 feel-good songs from the likes of Mika, James Morrison, Keane, Adele and Take That, plus old favourites such as Stevie Wonder's My Cherie Amour. It's a nice change from a box of chocolates.

ONE REPUBLIC - DREAMING OUT LOUD *****

The band shot to global fame with the Timbaland collaboration Apologize but the original version of their first hit on this album shows there is more to them than a big name remix. First UK single Stop And Stare also impresses.