Corine's CD Capsules

CORINE’S CD CAPSULES

CAPSULE COMMENTARIES

BY REVIEWS EDITOR, CORINE JURGERSON

JODY RAFFOUL

“Like A Star”

Far Shot Productions

Why you might love it: Jody Raffoul’s pop rock sound is similar to artists such as Edwin McCain and The Goo Goo Dolls with a little bit of Bon Jovi’s style mixed in.

Ironically, Raffoul won a Battle of the Bands competition in Detroit, which allowed him to open up for Bon Jovi at the Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

His songs are heartfelt and, at times, personal, detailing topics such as living in a safe country and appreciating what you have, the sacrifices that women make, and pursuing your dreams.

Raffoul’s music is pretty even-keeled; he’s definitely got his style down and doesn’t stray from his signature mellow sound. This is the perfect album to wind down to after a hard day at work.

Why you might hate it: In short, fans of harder rock probably won’t appreciate Raffoul’s mellow sound.

The album is good, but does tend to sound the same all the way through, and this may bore some listeners.

It would be great to hear Raffoul mix it up a bit and add something a bit heavier or even add a bit more excitement to his lyrics.

Overall Grade: B

I AM GHOST

“We Are Always Searching”

Epitaph Records

Why you might love it: Fans of bands like My Chemical Romance and Senses Fail won’t want to miss I Am Ghost, the latest emo (and at times screamo) band destined to shake up the charts.

Three part harmonies, violin and piano create a delightfully somber and moody feel to the band’s soulful melodies. One of the most notable tracks on the album, “Lady Madeline In Her Coffin”, will send chills down your spine. Violinist/Vocalist Kerith Marcantonio’s smooth, haunting vocal part really stands out in the song and makes it memorable.

I Am Ghost is just another great band that will likely break big in 2006.

Why you might hate it: Emo/punk haters, steer clear. This is some pretty dark, emotional stuff. If you can’t bear to hear a band harmonize about their feelings, death and vampires, this probably isn’t for you.

Lucky for you, many people believe that this genre of music is going to fade away in the near future. (I’ll believe it when I see it.)

Overall Grade: A

THE WEATHER MACHINES

“The Sound of Pseudoscience”

Tigers Against Crime Records

Why you might love it: The Weather Machines have a bit of a cross between New Wave meets early punk rock going on. Though they promote themselves as a power pop band, my initial impression was The Clash meets The Cars.

The majority of their songs are upbeat with a bit of a tongue-in-cheek edge. Overall, its just poppy, punky fun. The hooks are contagious and bouncy – the rhythms induce head bopping and booty shaking. Ahh, how I love power chords. Really, what more could you ask for?

Why you might hate it: I’d have to question anyone that couldn’t find at least one good thing to say about this lighthearted album. The Weather Machines aren’t trying to be the next big art project – they’re all about having fun, and if fun isn’t your game, don’t bother picking up the album. Some may also be put off by the nostalgic new wave sound, but I honestly feel that is one of the best elements of the disc.

Overall Grade: C+

CORINE’S Grading Scale:

A+ --- Gotta Have It! Run out and buy this NOW!

A --- Outstanding! Something you owe yourself to hear.

B --- Good stuff! Grab it at your convenience.

C --- Not bad! Check it out on a rainy day…

D --- Probably not one of the best choices out there…

F --- Ouch! Someone actually recorded this? Avoid at all costs!!!

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