SUSAN BOYLE:
I DREAMED A DREAM
(COLUMBIA/SYCO) **
"Britain's Got Talent" sensation Susan Boyle deserves so much better than the painfully obvious and/or bombastic settings she's given on her debut album. Its failings are no surprise, given that it's overseen by 19 Entertainment, parent company of "Britain's Got Talent," "American Idol" and so on.
If Boyle can find a sympathetic, imaginative producer next time out, she might create a document worthy of her talent. Until then, this very flawed effort will have to suffice.
Download this: "Up to the Mountain"
Curtis Ross
DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL:
ALTER THE ENDING
(VAGRANT) **
Early Dashboard - circa 2001 - was rough around the edges and somewhat raw, but that's what made their emo-folk more appealing. Now it seems they've gone the way of pop.
On their latest album, singer Chris Carrabba continues to project the same emotional angst, but musically the band sounds overproduced - with the exception of standout track "Everybody Learns From Disaster."
Most songs are anathematic as usual, but it's still a far cry from the days of "Screaming Infidelities."
Download this: "Everybody Learns From Disaster"
Sara Minton
JOHN MAYER:
BATTLE STUDIES
(COLUMBIA) ***
Stylistically, this is not a continuation of "Continuum," John Mayer's soulful, critically acclaimed 2006 disc.
But John Mayer is still John Mayer, and he specializes in guitar-driven mellow, bluesy pop-rock.
Besides a Cream-like cover of Robert Johnson's "Crossroads," Mayer delves into the melancholic aspects of relationships.
With his keen pop instincts, Mayer manages to make sadness sound good.
Download this: "Friends, Lovers or Nothing"
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