Jade's Music Blog

Kings of Leon - On Call
Taken from the Tennessee rockers’ new album, Because Of The Times, On Call has been on the band’s MySpace page for a while now. A taster of their new material, the single isn’t revolutionary but represents a new sort of sound for the band, which has led to them being labelled as `grunge’ by some fans. 4/5

Marillion - See It Like A Baby
One of the music scene’s best secrets, Marillion are on their 14th album yet haven’t been exposed in the mainstream. Which is probably a good thing, since it allows them to focus on their devoted fanbase. Steve Hogarth’s lead vocals and Steve Rothery’s guitar work is outstanding, and should endear them to new fans. 4/5

Hilary Duff - Dignity
Hilary Duff has grown up, but sadly her songs still sound a little too much like Spice Girls B sides to be taken seriously. The blonde hair and girl-next-door look has been replaced by an elegant-looking brunette, and the change in image also sees a new edgier dance sound. Songs like Danger (exploring the suspect advances of an older man) and Stranger (about a relationship that’s picture perfect in public, but cold behind closed doors) reflect a more mature Hilary. Possibly better than her previous bubblegum pop albums, but is not quite on a par with the Pinks of this world yet. 1/5

The Bird and The Bee - The Bird And The Bee
Inara George and Greg Kurstin’s self-titled debut compels you to put everything else aside and listen. Putting their own spin on classic pop conventions, normal rules are thrown out. Handclaps, tambourines, bumblebee baselines, topped off with Inara’s beguiling vocals become standard throughout the album, along with cheeky lyrics - on Again & Again, Inara sings “Say my stupid name again and again”, while she asks if someone would be “her f*****g boyfriend’ in F*****g Boyfriend. 3/5

Laura Veirs - Saltbreakers
The American singer proves she’s a cut above the current crowd of quirky singer-songwriter types with this assured collection of country-tinged marine-themed tunes. Bespectacled Laura might look like the girl most likely to lose a fist-fight with Amy Winehouse but don’t be fooled, this girl’s got spunk. Stand-out tunes include Pink Light, Don’t Lose Yourself and title track. Good tunes, intelligent lyrics and that unique voice could make Laura this year’s Joanna Newsom. 3/5