Joss Stone, Mind Body Soul
This came out last year but I dismissed it after Joss’s over exposure and kind of lost interest in her which was a shame because I quite liked her debut album. But I picked this up cheap recently and it’s a fine album. There’s no doubt she has an outstanding voice and it features a good mix of slow fast numbers.

Sufjan Stevens, Illinoise
Now I like this don’t get me wrong, it’s the familiar Sufjan sound, I mean I don’t hear much different from Seven Swans, but it amazes me it features so high in peoples playlists of best albums last year. Maybe it’s just me it’s good, but not that good.

Strokes, First Impressions of Earth
Typical Strokes sound but pretty good

Babyshambles, Down in Albion
Everything I dislike about rock stars is displayed in Pete Doherty, arrogant, talented but without a doubt a complete prat. But I can’t help liking this album it’s more Clash than the Libertines ever were but it sounds like the Libertines part two. I love his lazy vocal style and the way they use the snare drum and overblown bass with a bit of guitar in the background. It rambles on a bit but there’s so much good stuff in there it’s a worthwhile listen.

Other sounds
Ian Drury, New Boots and Panties
Arcade Fire, Funeral

Ipod Sounds
Got it on random at the moment just listened to Montrose (70s’ rock band) right after Broken Social Scene – bizarre, but sounds so right

Cheers
Mike