Jessie and the Toy Boys
“Let’s Get Naughty”
What the F*$#k? Now that I have your attention, you know what Jessie craves. Another multiple remix from an artist still without a debut album (slated for release this Summer). By now you’ve heard all the drum samples in the world, so what does Jessie bring to the table? Only her desperation to shock the by-now-unshockable audience. Can’t play it on radio and so we’ll see if she can deliver on the debut. It’s a cruel, cruel nasty world.
Best Cut: “Let’s Get Naughty”
Location: One time spin on the dance floor, Sound Factory.
Idina Menzel
“LIVE-Barefoot at the Symphony”
Why did we fall in love with Menzel when she first appeared on Glee as the missing mother? Seems we’d fallen for her on Broadway in Rent and Wicked already! This is a live album perfect for the Men’s Chorus after show party – she’s witty, disarming, one ultimate entertainer and shares her crystalline soprano with spot on perfection.
Best Cut: “Defying Gravity”
Location: Sitting in front of the stereo with popcorn and five of your favorite Broadway-loving friends
K’NAAN
“Is Anybody Out There?”
When I see Nelly Furtado on anything, I stop and listen, so K’Naan had an advantage here. Doesn’t mean I’m not aware of the celebrity-artist promo tags, but once this CD was spinning, it was clear this is a classy guy with a classy sound that for some reason just gets to the heart of the matter. Loved it.
Best Cut: “MYNC Club Mix”
Location: Ruby Skye, arriving too early
Kady Z
“One Million Pieces”
I didn’t want to like this one. I mean, Pia Zadora’s kid, I get it, and pink artwork, and cute too. But this is a dang likable little pop jewel, co-written and produced by ToneDef and Kady, and there is something to be said for lineage after all. Refreshing, tight, hooky melodies over seamless sugar will entice you to have that dangerous second and third bite.
Best Cut: “Beautiful Disaster”
Location: OMG, w/BFF, totally!
