Singles & Albums

Jun 15 2008 By Mickey Mcmonagle & Avril Cadden

THE SUBWAYS ALRIGHT *****

The first physical single release from the stunning album All Or Nothing has American influences firmly to the fore. Think of a better Blink 182 and you're close to the big, melodic singalong chorus. This song is made for festivals. MM

THE NOUVELLES SURROUNDED BY ANGELS (LOVE ALL AROUND) *****

The Manchester six-piece have a dark, atmospheric sound that emulates Joy Division. This single is haunting but brimming with an electrifying energy and impressive vocals from front man Johnnie Jackson. AC

SONNY J DISASTRO *****

Sonnington James III is a Scouse DJ whose party-themed album is relentlessly upbeat and hyper. Buried in the tracks are extracts from telly shows such as The Rockford Files. It verges on the annoying at times but is often fun. MM

EMMYLOU HARRIS ALL I INTENDED TO BE *****

The Nashville icon has gathered an all-star cast on this 13-song album, including Dolly Parton on Gold. The lilting celtic/country vibe of Shores Of White Sand is particularly heartfelt. A gorgeous, well thought out CD. AC

ROGER SANCHEZ RELEASE YOURSELF 7 *****

The seventh Ibiza album from US house legend Sanchez, based on his renowned night on Devil's Island. It gives fans a taste of what to expect from him live.

The pre-party disc covers warm-up stuff but on the second CD Sanchez delivers the sort of pumping house set he's so loved for. MM

PETE TONG WONDERLAND *****

Radio 1's grandad of dance music has made a great mix album.

Tongy cruises through two CDs of the hottest underground sounds. With an electro-driven feel building through chunky progressive monsters, this album will fuel any party. MM

COLDPLAY VIVA LA VIDA OR DEATH AND ALL HIS FRIENDS *****

Many tracks were recorded in churches in Spain and Latin America so there are lots of religious references. It's a bit Jekyll and Hyde with a two-songs-in-one feel.

Opener Life In Technicolour is a gorgeous instrumental but feels like it should have vocals. Cemeteries Of London is haunting and many songs will be great live. AC

THE HAZE SPIRITS ARE RISING *****

A sensational debut from the hotly-tipped rockers who blend the swagger of Oasis with a love of Led Zep and all things retro. Singer James Cairns has one of the most extraordinary voices you are likely to hear live. Backed by a tight band and truly epic songs, it's easy to see why so many reckon these guys will be stars. MM