“Overjoyed” – Circulatory System

This track is reminiscent of Jefferson Airplane’s “White Rabbit” only at a faster pace, with the remaining 30 seconds sounding like a descent into hell. Then the song mercifully stops. It’s too much at once giving the listener sensory overload. There’s a reason why they call it psychedelic rock – you’d have to be on acid to listen to it.

“Elvis is Everywhere” – Mojo Nixon

Aside from the unnecessary insults to Michael J. Fox and Star Trek, this track is completely worthless. The beat is so monotonous that you wouldn’t hum this in the shower. It even has the audacity to be over four minutes long. Skip it.

“In These Arms” – The Swell Season

Once you’ve found your happy place you can appreciate this track. The mourning-like quality to the song will make you feel as if you’re in the middle of a funeral procession, but stick with it. The protagonist is begging to have his potential lover see the possibilities of life without the [insert curse word of your choice here] they’re with. It’s touching and worth a listen.

“Don’t Download This Song – Main Version” – Weird Al Yankovic

Weird Al is the master of parody. He has an uncanny knack for coming out with songs that have timely lyrics. So, “Go and buy the CD like you know that you should [so] he can buy another solid gold Humvee.”

“Leave Us and Forgive Us” – Alberta Cross

Cross’ voice is turnoff to what is otherwise a well produced song. If only she toned down her voice and let the musicians play, then this would have been an amazing track. Instead your ear is assaulted with a cacophony of noise. Pass on this one.

“Siface – Come Nave In Mezzo All’onde” – Cecilia Bartoli

Bartoli’s classically trained mezzo-soprano voice shines on this track. Her vivacious personality is revealed through each acrobatically sung lyric. You don’t care what she’s singing as long as she doesn’t stop. Definitely worth a listen.

“Love is All I Am” – Dawes

This quartet harmonizes in a nonintrusive way allowing you to be carried away by the emotional subtly of the lyrics. It’s amazing music that is difficult to pin down by genre – and that’s a good thing.

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