Horizons Online Edition

R&B

Jamie Foxx - Unpredictable

Jamie Foxx is the newest in a string of Hollywood stars to make the conversion from acting to singing. While he isn't the worst one to make the switch over he comes pretty close. Instead of relying on the raw talent he displayed while acting in Ray to carry this album he falls back on a sting of guests and their talents. Every song starts off as a smooth R&B song. Then during the middle of the song the usual guest rap star takes the song in a disturbing direction. This is the stuff that High School dances are made of. It's an entire album of slow and typical hybrid, rap and R&B songs. The next time Jamie Foxx wants to go solo he should do it right and not bring along all of his favorite rappers.

Pop/Dance

Madonna - Confessions on the Dance Floor

Ever since the 1980's Madonna has been known to reinvent herself after every album. She has done it again with "Confessions on the Dance Floor". Booming bass lines mixed with catchy beats and lyrics make every song an instant dance hit. This album also takes you places. You feel like you are in Europe at a club dancing the night away. The entire album does not sport a diverse sound but that's because it is purely a dance album. Don't be surprised if you hear some of the songs on this album becoming dance hall standards.

Rock

The Strokes - First Impressions of Planet Earth

The long awaited album release from the pioneers of ultra-modern three-chord rock has finally arrived. "First Impressions of Planet Earth" further solidifies the reputation of The Strokes as a band that isn't afraid to go out on a limb while remaining true to their original sound. The Strokes also finally start to showcase their raw musical talent. Some of the songs sound like The Strokes of old creating instant hits, while others have more of a distinct and unrefined musical presence. The Strokes leave no room for smoke and mirrors or fancy effects. They continue to pump out pure original music. "First Impressions of Planet Earth" hails the return of a truly great rock band: The Strokes.

Alternative

The Format - Interventions and Lullaby's

After a stellar homecoming concert down in Tempe, The Format have headed back to the studio hoping to top their last album "Interventions and Lullaby's". This entire album features catchy and well thought out melodies and lyrics that you can really hang your hat on. The Format use creative metaphors to portray life hardships and the love loss. While some of the lyrics are emotional The Format will not put you to sleep with boring whining and acoustic strumming. Most of the songs are upbeat and feature a variety of instruments. The Format is the best band to ever come out of Phoenix. Treat your ears to "Interventions and Lullaby's".

Article Tools