( Album Reviews|

The Beach Boys The Greatest Hits — Volume 1

EMI

Arguably the greatest musical group ever, the Beach Boys were known for their outstanding har- monies and inno-

vations. This CD (A+) takes the

listener through

the bands’ career fro the “cars and surfing” days, the studio marvels of Brain Wilson, and wraps up with the groups’ 1988 hit “Kokomo.” With gems like “Little Deuce Coupe” and “Good Vibrations,” this is a solid CD worthy of steady listening.

-O’Connor

ve et There Be... Ruff Ryders/

Pinterscope

ve, originally on Dr. Dre’s Aftermath abel, has since elocated to the Ruff Ryders camp. She omes through on

her first album with funny and original skits, only a few featured artist,

wicked-ass beats fro Swizz Beatz, and hard

rhymes. Ruff Ryders’ First Lady makes the

grade (A-).

-MacDonald

Oist ercedes Five And Dime

MI

he third full length Mclease from the David Usher lead proup (B), it sports heir driving

hythm in a more extured, heavily Produced way than

before.

If their hit “Breathe” tickles your fancy, you're liable to enjoy the full album. More mature sounding than before, this CD will keep the fans happy — as well as convert some new fans.

-O’Connor

Richard Wood Fire Dance

It’s impossible to

listen to this CD (B) § and not feel Wood’s §&

passion for the fiddle

His fourth release, it ¥

features a mix of

originals, covers and §

traditional pieces. Ranging from an

emotional air such as [3

“Kimura,” to the rocking dance beat o the title tracks, this CD is a delight.

-O’Connor

(sles)

Richard Wood Me

If you thought the previous CD was

again! His fifth release (A), Wood

with new styles and sounds. The title track is a piece of studio wizardry, capturing his raw energy perfectly.

fuss is about! -O’Connor

Come Dance With

cutting edge — think

manages to keep the integrity of the tradi- tional fiddle sound as it is worked together

Find out what all the

Chris Cornell

“Euphoria Morn- ing” A&M/Universal

Surprisingly low-key considering that this is his first solo post- Soundgarden release, Chris Cornell has created a very fine and somewhat eclec- tic release (A-). Except for a few songs, don’t expect something that you’d expect from Soundgarden. Most of it isn’t heavy and fast rock, with his usual loud lyrics. It’s a bit lighter, and much more attention has been paid to melodies and subtle studio effects. Some of his side melodies would make very fine songs on their own. This was totally digitally recorded, but old equipment was filtered through the new high-tech gear, so unique sounds emerge. It’s emotional, a bit more personal, and at times quite touching. These songs, some soft, one an homage to 60’s R&B ballads (my fave), and some rockers have won me over. Kudos to Chris on what I deem an excellent start to a solo career.

-McQuaid