Corine's CD Capsules

CORINE’S CD CAPSULES

CAPSULE COMMENTARIES

BY REVIEWS EDITOR, CORINE JURGERSON

OVAL OPUS

“Oval Opus”

Redeye Records

Why you might love it: It’s hard to not love the mellow sounds of Oval Opus, a pop/rock quartet from Cincinnati. Compare this melodic rock band to the likes of The Pat McGee Band, Sister Hazel and Ryan Cabrera. The album’s sound is consistently easy on the ears, the perfect purchase for fans of adult-contemporary, family-friendly sounds. Indeed, Oval Opus is another band that belongs on the soundtrack to a WB show.

Why you might hate it: Some may be turned off by Oval Opus’s airy, carefree sound, but no music fan loves every band or artist. Sure, it’s the stuff that Eric and Kathy plays in the morning, but that’s the same stuff that wins grammys. Haters of pop, beware, for you will certainly consider this “poop.”

Overall Grade: B

BEAUTIFUL CREATURES

“Deuce”

Spitfire Records

Why you might love it: Fans of hard rock / heavy metal will love the brash, heavy-hitting tunes of Beautiful Creatures. The tracks on Deuce are heavy without being overbearing and catchy but not annoying. In short, the band sounds like a cross between Linkin Park and any ‘80s hair-metal band. Shredding guitar-riffs and a raspy-throated front-man complete this metal fans’ favorite band. It’s no surprise that Beautiful Creatures received great reception from the Ozzfest fans when they toured with the popular metal festival.

Why you might hate it: Like many bands that record these days, there isn’t a whole lot of originality going on here. Instead of building on the hard rock formula that has worked well for their predecessors, Beautiful Creatures have chosen to take the safe route and simply replicate it. You probably just won’t be overly impressed. Next, please.

Overall Grade: C

WICKED LIZ & THE BELLYSWIRLS

“Hulathong”

Indie

Why you might love it: Wicked Liz & The Bellyswirls are essentially a delightful combination of Jewel, Liz Phair and 10,000 Maniacs. Bluesy, sometimes even folky, rock best describes their sound – a sound that would have undoubtedly fit right in during the Lillith Fair era. Wicked Liz’s vocals are smooth as honey, combining a rare folkish flair with the typical “rock chick” sound.

The band as a whole possesses a very tight sound – its evident that they play upon one another’s talents. This album was definitely this month’s “curve ball” – the unexpected gem in the stack. Should you pick up the album, check out the soulful “It Hurt So Bad” – a terrific showcase of Liz’s vocal abilities.

Why you might hate it: If you’re into harder rock, you’ll probably enjoy some of the albums listed above more than this. However, if you’re open to all genres, check it out, because you might be pleasantly surprised.

Overall Grade: A

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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