Singles & Albums

Jun 22 2008 By Mickey Mcmonagle & Avril Cadden

BECK

CHEMTRAILS *****

This wildly psychedelic track has a spacey,60s hippy sound, while Beck sings in high-pitched, ethereal tones. It's atmospheric and takes a while to grow on you but it is certainly arresting and one that stands out from the crowd. Perfect for festivals. AC

TOKYO POLICE CLUB

IN A CAVE *****

The second single from the Canadians'debut album Elephant Shell is a bouncy, jerky tune with ringing guitars and bizarre lyrics. It's sharp but slick and the handclaps ensure it is catchy. Three minutes of likeable indie rock. AC

THE CORRECTIONS

OCD

This is punchy, raw and energetic with a shouty, catchy chorus. It's a rant against politicians who refuse to admit they are wrong although the lyrics are a bit weak. A quick slice of indie rock but nothing particularly new or different. AC

IRONIK

STAY WITH ME *****

Championed by Radio 1's Scott Mills, this cheesy British urban effort combines the speeded-up vocals of the happy hardcore era with moody, slushy rap.

It's basically Westlife with their vocals pitched up to chipmunk level. Laughable. MM

MY MORNING JACKET

TOUCH ME, I'M GOING TO SCREAM PT.2 *****

I love this single - it's gripping with a killer drum beat and haunting keyboards. The retro sound is a cross between OMD and Kraftwerk but there is also a taste of R&B. Jim James's vocals soar and stop you in your tracks. A special track. AC

VARIOUS ARTISTS

AZULI IBIZA 08***** Another week, another Ibiza compilation. This is a strong album of house tunes, building through a surprisingly tough techno-influenced feel from De'Lacy to Deadmau5. Mixed by Dave Piccione, this will warm you up for summer. MM

THE CHARLATANS

THE BBC SESSIONS *****

This collection of rarities from one of the best indie bands the world has ever seen is a must-have for everyone - fan or not. It showcases perfectly the genius of the band and singer Tim Burgess in particular. You'll find live recordings of all the classics on this great double CD, making it a truly essential album.

Don't miss out. MM

PAUL VAN DYK

CREAM IBIZA *****

The German legend - who has just rocked Scots dance festival Coloursfest - returns to his spiritual home at Amnesia on Ibiza for another residency at Cream this year. If this album is anything to go on, we're in for some pretty wild nights. The two CDs reflect the sort of full-on trance fans love from the massive DJ. MM