FIERCE! by various artists
Rating: 3/5
Reviewer: Lara Atson
An album for all the rockers out there! This new compilation from Sony Music is sure to get any party going. The CD features radio-friendly rock/pop hits from bands such as Good Charlotte, Metro Station and The Ting Tings. Highlights include Pink’s Sober and Breakeven from The Script. And you can look good while jamming to your favourite tune. They’ve thrown in a 20 per cent Rage discount clothing voucher in every copy and a free NKD Step Right Up ringtone.
CRADLESONG by Rob Thomas
Rating: 4/5
Reviewer: Jared Orlin
Rob, lead singer of rock band Matchbox 20, has another winner with his second solo album, the follow-up to Something To Be (2005). His voice is flawless as are his melodies and deep, thought-provoking lyrics, particularly on the first single, Her Diamonds. Gasoline and Give Me the Meltdown are radio-friendly, proving Rob is no one-hit wonder.
TENDER MOMENTS by Tender
Rating: 4/5
Reviewer: Mma-Tshepo Mokgoko
Tender Mavundla, a finalist in the fourth season of South African Idols, delivers pure enjoyment on her debut album. It’s an eclectic mix of songs with R&B and Afro-soul undertones. There are few English songs but it doesn’t matter. Most tracks are catchy and easy on the ear with Ithemba Lami, Amathatha and Nomthandazo the hottest tracks.
SOME PEOPLE HAVE REAL PROBLEMS by Sia
Rating: 4/5
Reviewer: Jared Orlin
Although this Aussie singer isn’t well known in SA she’s one to watch. She sounds like a cross between Tori Amos, Björk and Nelly Furtado - and her pop styling has intelligent, meaningful lyrics. Best songs on this, her third, album? Too many to choose from but we recommend Academia, Buttons and I Go to Sleep.
WIN!
Five readers will each win a copy of Rob Thomas’ Cradlesong. SMS the word CRADLE, your name and address to 34923 by 5 pm on 20 August 2009. Each SMS costs R2.
