Norah Jones "Little Broken Hearts"

          A good producer assists the artist in making a good album, while a better producer takes their sound to a different place. A great producer helps them improve upon their strengths and take their sound to a different direction without changing their core identity. I don’t know if you understand the logic, if it’s present, but Brian Burton is a great producer. I am more of a fan of her whole discography than I originally believed I would be. After The Fall, which was my favorite, you have to realize something will end up in pieces. Little Broken Hearts documents the damage done, and the relationship that was left unwritten, and works of true passion no longer spoken. The hearts are not the only things that are broken; does anybody hear broken bells? Broken hearts can be vicious, and Jones has not sounded as confident to “Say Goodbye” as she does here; unless it’s a ruse. The title track’s lyrical exploits of the “Little Broken Hearts” happen to be more interesting than the sound of the hearts breaking. When an ex goes for someone younger, most can call it a “mid-life crisis.” I cannot help but think of Kid Rock’s half your age, based upon solely the title of the next track. You can tell that she’s mad that “She’s 22” because it is made into a big deal by other. I will not say that it is the weakest song until I “Take It Back”; it’s a bluesy country-tinged number that sounds good before or “After the Fall.” The next shatter sounds like a different direction and tone, but I can’t say country because it isn’t. Instead I will mention that comparisons were made to the work of Dusty Springfield and Marvin Gaye; now all we need to find out is the last damaged organ because she sings about “4 Broken Hearts.” Norah continues “Travelin’ On,” as she passes the house of rising sun.                            She must have taken “Happy Pills” while driving “Out On The Road.” The former is very upbeat, and is reminiscent of early Sheryl Crow, while the latter is still pretty close to upbeat; just not as sunny. She must have taken a really weak dose because she sounds mad; but anyone would be after learning that their ex slept with someone else in their bed. Oh “Miriam,” maybe you should consider getting a restraining order. So I must ask if it was “All A Dream,” or more of a nightmare? She went through a lot of pain to produce this record; who says a broken heart does not cause true pain? Surviving her nightmare, and with the help of Burton, she created an album worthy of praise. The best tracks are: Say Goodbye, She’s 22, Little Broken Hearts, Take it Back, 4 Broken Hearts, Happy Pills, and Miriam

One Direction "Up All Night"

     The aim and focus of most boy bands are often pointed in One Direction, and that is to make songs that morph into psychological gum; whether to make suspiciously sentimental or truthfully tireless in their pursuit to lift your spirits as you sing along. I am bias to the first song because of its old-school rock flavor, and that cowbell! I also like that the girl in this song sounds like she is naturally gorgeous, and I more special than she will ever know. You can be pretty, but if you have a great personality... that is "What Makes You Beautiful." Ok, spacious strings you team up with Liam. Then, we’ll cue a short arpeggy of keys and strings with Harry. What? Then the drums kick in for this epic chorus, and after Zayn sings once and the chorus is ran through we’ll have Zayn sing again but with a different arpeggio? Got it? Good! Whoever this song is for, there must be something captivating about this girl, because no one else compares it’s "Gotta Be You."                              When I hear this next song I think of a younger Backstreet Boys, but with a cowbell! If there is "One Thing" I must try to do after listening to this song it is to try to nicely suggest it “….get out, get out, get out of my head.” I’ll need luck with that. . The title track is full of energy and bittersweet hook, or keys, and if Katy Perry was on repeat it must have had a positive effect on their (or producer’s) popcraft perfection. This song will probably keep me "Up All Night" trying to remember what song this reminds me of. The next song is for everyone and anyone who has had a crush that metaphorically kills them to see that look he or she gives their current squeeze; causes them to say "I Wish" it was me.                                          You can "Tell Me A Lie," but I will not return the favor because two wrongs do not make a right. I am proud to say that the instrumental accompaniment is pretty strong, and the lyrics are relatable because it concerns another tribulation in the screwed up and confusing mess that is known as love. I’m "Taken" over by empathy when it comes to the lyrics, but also the next song’s composition; because it reminds me of BSB again, and also gives me a geometry lesson in the shape of my heart. "I Want" you to know that despite the lyrics, which at times leave something to be desired, have that vaudevillian flare and rhythm, and the guitar solo to make this song one of my absolute favorites. "Everything About You" reminds me of someone I used to know, and that music sounds better with you; a little bit. If we keep making the "Same Mistakes" we will never learn, right? It has been said that the band is closer to auto-tuned era, but I think with the production values and instrumental flourishes that they sound more like the Jonas Bros over Big Time Rush. The next song may not "Save You Tonight," but the sentiment might. I will say that this next song "Stole My Heart," but thankfully it did not blow it up like dynamite would. The best tracks: What Makes You Beautiful, One Thing, Up All Night, I Wish, Tell Me A Lie, Taken, I Want, Same Mistakes, and Stole My Heart.

Staind

           Let us just say that they have been planning an album like this for a long time.Their 2003 concept album 14 Shades of Grey followed an idea of making a pretty cohesive album; it has many of the songs sound similiar if you don't pay enough attention, but like the subtle shades of gray there are definite differences in those songs. It also made me happy when I listened to the single with no video. How about you? Their next album, Chapter V, followed in this saga with many great songs and musicianship, but did not follow the same concept. I will not name my favorite tracks because the majority of them would be listed, but their last is a different story. It has been said that they went in there ready to make their heaviest record yet, but instead made a record that was an Illusion of Progress with subtle blues and floydian influences ("The Corner" ). My favorites had to be save me, lost along the way, break away, and tangled up in you, besides the aforementioned track.               They definitely open up this album with their "Eyes Wide Open" and Lewis' hoarse throat as he returns back to the days of being Tormented during his Dysfunction. The first track is a welcome return, with that killer groove, and a kick in the butt for those who thought they couldn't make those kinds of songs anymore. He screams! "Not Again!" but only again, and then the bluesy and slightly fried solo, along with harmonies that remind me of Alice in Chains? If that was not enough, he ends with his guttural howl. The next song really does remind me of Alice in Chains, and you can say whatever, but I don't think they are "Failing" at making a nice attempt in a homage (not literally a homage, but the sound reminds me of that band). If you "Wannabe" a hater, feel free to, but if you are, the lyrics (which are great) may be directed towards you. This next track reminds me of  Limp Bizkit in style. Snoop Doggy Dogg drops some verses while Lewis also decides to scream a little; there may be a little shredding. I thought this was gonna be a heavy record and then you "Throw It All Away." There may be a slight twang in this song's guitar licks, and it is a nice break from the last few tracks.             This next track sounds like it could be one from the album that wanted to Break The Cycle, and ended up selling them many records with that little retrospective hit..hmmm... it's been a while since I had listened to that album, what was the name of that single? Great solo too. A song that is perfect in scoring one's descendance to 'The Bottom' that may just end up causing that person to have an epiphany and break that deadly addiction that is causing them to drown; the distortion, rhythms,and the echo just cause me to envision someone slowly doing so. Among hearing that staccato riff at the forefront in the beginning makes me think that I definitely should buy their new record "NOW!" or at least try to figure out which path I should choose if I want to better my life because the lyrics are about deciding how to better what you have, and the only one that can change that ever-present fork in the road in the back of your mind is you. The next song sounds like an anthem for the hopeless, the undeniably angry, the heavily depressed, the king of all excuses, and those that loved Staind's sound in the late nineties. This last track is "Something To Remind You" that even though the bulk of this record was as heavy as they have ever been they can still write beautiful, harmonic gems, that can also be heart-breaking at the same time; I like his vocals the best on this song.

The Avett Brothers "The Carpenter"

     Their last record was one that occasionally surprised you; moments that you asked “did they just do that?” Whether widely acclaimed or not, it had its friends and foes. This album doesn’t really have those occasional curveballs thrown in the last few innings of the song to keep you on your toes, but it does document a more natural progression. I miss those moments, but I can see that this album is more cohesive and still captures my attention.                                                                                                                        “The Once and Future Carpenter” has no fear of his expiration date : “If I live the life I'm given, I won't be scared to die.” The banjo lead “Live and Die” is a treat, and screams bonfire sing along; either because of the bouncy rhythm or the feel good lyrics. “Winter in my Heart” is not frigid, but encapsulates the emptiness that one can experience during those months “alone.” Until he met “The Pretty Girl From Michigan,” but this was more of a lesson in love than story concerning serendipity (with a classic riff). “I Never Knew You” had the harmonies, but I find the scenario described in the song more entertaining; because I am not the only one who has fallen in love with someone who never gave me a chance to get to know them.                                             “Through My Prayers” is one of the most intimate and tender moments of the record, and can be said that the faithful can agree that is where some of their similar moments occur. Not only are the lyrics so true, but the horns and banjo sound so good too in “Down With The Shine.” There are some more energetic cuts, and “Geraldine” would have to take the crown with its occasional dance-rock percussion and spunk. Named after one of their favorite actors, and said to sound like it came from the 90’s, “Paul Newman Vs. The Demons” is one of their loudest moments; without actually being loud. Instead, they follow the model that Nirvana perfected in smells like teen spirit; melodic, but full of seething angst. “Life” is what you make it, and whether you think it is a bore, it is what is. When all is said and done I really cannot say I dislike any to the point of recognition.    

The Offspring "Days Go By"

      If you looked at the cover of this band’s new album, without knowing anything of their sound, you might expect something more serious and mature. The cover art is great, but can be misleading to the sound; especially those who use labels and covers to determine someone or something worthy of time. Days Go By, and people get older, but that doesn’t mean they always mature. Some may embrace their inner child and still manage the responsibilities required in this day and age. It almost sounds as if they needed a savior to help rise against the urge to call in an insipid initiation. “Secrets from the Underground” may borrow from themselves, but tries to simultaneously confuse the listener by saying “This is not an anthem/Or a threat in someone's name/But a promise that tomorrow/Will rock and burn, if things don't change.” When it clearly sounds like it! We’ll say more of a general warning; which reminds me of another song by Rise Against.              What else can be said except that this is a tamer realization that “Days Go By.” While “Turning into You” is a document of a toxic and contradiction relationship: trying to gain a family member’s acceptance without becoming like them; in a sound that recalls the desperation and confusion of animal I have become from another band entirely.  “Cruising California (Bumpin’ in my Trunk)” not only recalls their Americana spunk found on their 1998 hit, but could also be a retort to artists like 30H3! You may find it difficult to digest that they have grown up on “All I Have Left is You.” A lot can happen in three and a half minutes, but all that bumpin’ must have gotten old fast, and a relationship with two party people often don’t last.                                   These “OC Guns” are dangerous; a mixture of raga-mariachi, rancid rhythm, and gang vocals, and sparse sound effects. “Dirty Magic” sounds like it can be the anthem for the stereotypical emotives, and examines how loving that one person who plays sadistic games can make suicide seem so appealing. “Dividing By Zero” is one of their finest moments, and hits your head with a hammer, or that zeppelin reaching maximum speed, and then some. “Slim Pickens Does The Right Thing and Rides The Bomb To Hell” wins points for its title alone, but its commentary allows it to qualify. If I would choose my least favorites I would say Days Go By and I Want To Make A Secret Family (With You).

No Doubt "Push and Shove"

    It’s safe to say that they left their ska-punk roots before, or around the turn of the century; at least it sounded like it when single choice was concerned. Integrating hip-hop, reggae, and dance into a more pop-oriented sound. If there was still a chance they would go back to their roots, then that was thrown out the window with Push and Shove. They may not sound the same, but the wait for their new album was worth it! No Doubt! They sound as confident as ever, and like an actual band; just a different genre. The highly infectious, reggae-tinged first single can make it easier to “Settle Down” or put you in a good mood. The song is bookmarked by interesting instrumental interludes; the outro has the vibe of the title track from their last album. The energy will make you glad you came, because they are “Looking Hot,” or at least sounding as if the Caribbean is 350; the band is on fire I can even here traces of a slow jam from their last album. The title track may be a favorite of listeners of dance hall, and Major Lazer and Busy Signal add some flare and  credibility for the genre's sake.                                                                                                 It is always a good idea to catch your breath and rehydrate after an hour or so of non-stop dancing; this song is perfect for  just relaxing to the point of falling asleep. The arrangement is slightly dreamy, so don’t bite off my head; take it “Easy.” I’m just drawn in by some of the instrumentals like “Gravity,” and I just want to say hello.  This may not be a sweater song, but you can call it an acoustic one; left “Undone.” You know how those relationships that used to “Sparkle,” eventually fade? This is about one of those relationships, but the reggae, horn–infused sound still keeps the idea that it can work even if  “I know it’s never gonna be the way it was.” It's not. They are not only , more or less, “Dreaming the Same Dream,” but living it. The song is not about that though; maybe it’s like this album’s version of don’t speak, even though that was long ago. My Favorites: Settle Down, Looking Hot, Push and Shove, Undercover, Sparkle, and Dreaming the Same Dream.

Eve 6 "Speak in Code"

     If you believe that Eve 6 couldn’t come back potent as ever after a little hiatus, then It’s All In Your Head! If that happened to be their swan song, I would not be disappointed because it was a very consistent and cohesive album, as well as the records that proceeded it. I thought they would never return gain after that last update before they went incognito, but they have not lost their penchant for writing clever (pop) rock songs. They probably missed it, by the sound of the opening “Curtain.” The song could also refer to an old “friend” who used him as a ladder to be able to own the spotlight, and now Collins watches in the rafters in a spoken word piece that reminds me of the bloodhound gang for some reason; it could just be completely hypothetical though. The dance rock of “Victoria” can groove with the best of the genre’s most well-known players, and even their own contemporaries. What is another way to say scenario obsession? “Situation Infatuation.”  I guess Collins does not believe in the bro code, but his “B.F.G.F” does not believe in monogamy. “I keep him happy” she says, and Collins does not seem to mind either; with a shrug in the air “if I’m an a******/That’s cool/As long as you know it.” The horn-drenched ending is the icing on the cake, or the reason as to why she’s “sweating in the back of a cutlass.”                                                                           High expectations are what often cause the easiest frustrations, because they are brought upon by the fascinations of someone you admire; If you’re high on a wire, and have little poise it is easy to fall into the “Lion’s Den.” There is no need for a science dedicated to analyzing how some “Blood Brothers” end up getting infected with animosity towards one another because we can say that it’s usually a girl (or guy). This may become misplaced in the “Lost and Found,” but I just lost my way to the “Moon.” The funky and lively bass may sit shot gun, but gives the rhythm section the gas to take us  for a ride “Downtown,” and the backseat driver harmonies aren’t so bad either. Ok, I can see that maybe some of these songs sound like they could have been found on earlier records, and you can “Trust Me” when I say this sounds like an old country party rocker I once heard.                                                                                                                   You think you are aware of what you want, and you meet this girl (or guy) that is like a monkey wrench; s/he busts a hole into “Everything” on your wish list and improves upon it. “Pick Up the Pieces” sounds like it could be featured on an Angels and Airwaves record, but would work better here; the damage that a broken heart can cause is illustrated in this song.