Quarters for the Jukebox

4 Minutes is first, technically 4:05, and for a song with a lyrical sense of urgency (” … we only got four minutes to save the world … “), it’s puzzling the first 50 seconds are used for a repetitive introduction (granted, the radio version will be shortened by close to a minute — making “4 Minutes” actually three minutes). It’s the first single from Madonna’s new album, Hard Candy, and the back beat is in place here, but overall, the song sounds like no one really exerted themselves (or tried) in producing this. It feels like everyone just mailed it in, which is disappointing when you think of the names associated with it (Madonna, JT, Timbaland). Either way, I’m sure this will fill the top 40 radio waves soon. Check for yourself.

Worth listening, if you like: Madonna; Justin Timberlake; Timbaland; Michael Jackson; Britney Spears.

Gnarls Barkley embark on following up to their 2006 anthem single, “Crazy” (a song that seemed to be covered at almost every live show that year). From a collection of songs standpoint, this effort doesn’t stray much from 2006’s album, St. Elsewhere. If anything, I’d say the couple has built on their past and put forth a stronger (and more accessible) mix. From an anthem single standpoint, there’s no “Crazy” replacement here, and I’m finding this a good thing. There are some very good (and single-worthy songs), and none sound like artists trying to redo something they’ve already done (as numerous one-hit wonders follow-up by continuously trying to recreate the magic they lucked upon before).

Gnarls Barkely sound progressive, and have an improved sophomore album here, continuing to fill an eclectic mainstream music gap until Andre 3000 drops something new. Check for yourself.

Quarters for the songs: A Little Better; Run (I’m a Natural Disaster); Open Book.

Worth listening, if you like: Outkast; Beck; Kanye; Black Eyed Peas; Gorillaz; Pharrell; Genesis; Dungeon Family; Dangerdoom; Kelis.

Easy Star All-Stars have spent the past decade (or so), mostly known for their reggae interpretations of other’s songs. Backed by a rotating band cast, the duo’s past two albums, Dub Side of the Moon (Pink Floyd cover) and Radiodread (Radiohead cover of OK Computer), were actually very, very good. I’m not sure if it’s because the material might be a bit weaker, but this EP doesn’t quite measure up as well (composed of originals used during live shows, and an unreleased track from Radiodread). The opening track, Got to Get Away, made me think of an odd mixture of modern R&B with a loose backing of reggae struggling to work. The following tracks sound more like what you’d expect and get the album back on track … but unfortunately, never quite reach the standard this duo has established for themselves. If you’re in need of some new reggae, this group is still a good place to start. Check for yourself.

Quarters for the songs: Until That Day; Bed of Rose. 

Worth listening, if you like: Scientist; Augustus Pablo; Lee “Scratch” Perry; Slightly Stoopid; Toots & the Maytals; Dub Syndicate.

Stephen Malkmus and The Jicks continue their working relationship, having worked together on previous albums and touring (including the shared credit album Pig Lib, 2003). Real Emotional Trash harkens back to their 2003 offering – trippy, sprawling and a bit dark. There’s something American and vintage and after hours and Kerouac and surprising about the whole record (and note if the opening track isn’t to your liking at first, don’t immediately quit, give a couple of the other tracks a listen first). Check for yourself.

Quarters for the songs: Cold Son; Hopscotch Willie; Gardenia.

Worth listening, if you like: Pavement; Kim’s Bedroom; Elliott Smith; Lou Reed; The Raconteurs; Black Mountain; Syd Barrett.