The Black Crowes - Warpaint

The Black Crowes - Warpaint
Solid album filled with slow southern rock ballads. While the Crowes have failed to match their success of the early 90s, it should not be forgotten that Chris Robinson and company have sold over 20 million albums. Check out 'Locust Street', 'Walk Believer Walk', and 'Oh Josephine'. This summertime, after touring in Australia and the UK, the Crowes will be back in the US. An outdoor summertime concert would be the best way to hear this album. For those of us not fortunate enough, rolling down the windows will have to do. B-

Goldfrapp - Seventh Tree

Goldfrapp - Seventh Tree
Seventh Tree has grown far above its glam rock and synthpop roots. Don't worry, the synthesizers and ambient sounds are still very present, but this is more of a background sound than a dance album. If you enjoy Coldplay and Keane, Goldfrapp is worth a try. 'A&E' is the most mainstream song on the album and while most radio stations won't know what do with Alison Goldfrapp and Will Gregory, this particular song is worth a listen. C+

Ashton Shepherd - Sounds So Good

Ashton Shepherd - Sounds So Good

These pure country lyrics sound so good coming from the lips of this Alabama native. This is not pop-country and is better suited for the lovers of Dolly, Reba, and Yearwood. If your old Chevy happens to have two fuel tanks, a cooler in the back, and a lot of dirt on the tires, Ashton Shepherd just might be your new favorite female country western singer. Top to bottom, there are twangy, acoustic, well written back country songs. If there's "nothing like the sound of a cooler slushing, on the bed of your truck", listen to 'Sounds So Good' and if your dial is tuned to the General Cherry Lee, listen for 'Takin' Off This Pain.' B