Dave Short

R.E.M — Up

Evokes a dream world, buried in drum machines and synths. Some may find the soporific quality off-putting. Not me.

5/5

The Gaslight Anthem — The '59 Sound

Punk finally has some soul.

5/5

Even In Blackouts — Myths & Imaginary Magicians

Everything about this record is a contradiction. It shouldn't work, but it does.

4/5

Metallica — Death Magnetic

Sure, some tracks rock like Metallica of yore. But it sounds like shit and bores me to no end.

1/5

The Lillingtons — The Too Late Show

Enjoyable, but the aliens/zombies/spies motifs feel a little worn out.

2/5

Ben Folds Presents — University A Capella!

Good idea, OK execution. Many groups try to recreate piano via voice. Some standouts.

3/5

The Parasites — Solitary

A fine pop-punk outing. Nothing really sticks in your head, but nevertheless it's a pleasant listen.

3/5

Guns 'N Roses — Chinese Democracy

I wish it hadn't taken 15 years to make, so I could review it context-free. Oh well. It's shit.

0/5

Farewell — Isn't This Supposed to Be Fun!?

True to its title; you'll sing along, but it wades in far too much emo for power pop.

2/5

Tracy Chapman — s/t

These songs from a nobody about being a nobody but not liking it made her a somebody. Urgent, tender, real.

5/5