Jam-worthy CDs New releases and contemporary classics

Nonpoint – ‘Development’

Rock stations are raving about Nonpoint’s sophomore effort with MCA Records – and for good reason. “Development” is hard driving, yet comfortable and easy to listen to. It’s also one of the best hard rock albums I’ve heard in a long time. The strong guitar, drum-beats and vocals almost always have a refined, well-practiced sound. “Your Signs,” the first single from “Development,” has received air play and the song features strong, clear vocals from lead singer Elias Soriano.

“Any Advice” is a mellower rock ballad that showcases the diversity and maturity of the band. It takes a step back and reminds the listener that these guys have talent outside of the mosh pit. Every member of the band does their part admirably and they mesh together very well. “Development” is a break out party for Nonpoint, and it could put them in the spotlight as the next mega rock band.

Recommended if you like Rage Against The Machine, Deftones and Taproot.

Dead Prez – ‘Let’s Get Free’

Dead Prez aggressively and articulately attacks the forces that contribute to inequality in modern society. They have an unbreakable conviction that what they’re saying is true and important. For this very reason, this album is powerful enough that it can’t help but spark discussions.

On “Mind Sex,” they express the desire to have good conversations. With “Let’s Get Free,” they’ve created quite a tool for getting people to talk about timely issues. The big disappointment is that they have such a boring musical backdrop for such bold statements. The album’s beats and musical accompaniments have nothing special or interesting about them.

Maybe this is intentional; all the attention is drawn to their voices, but even their rhyming skills aren’t that exciting. They make their points, yes, but it’s all direct communication. There are no rhymes delivered in a way that makes your jaw drop or that makes you want to rewind and catch that last verse again.

Overall the hip-hop world needs more artists who are willing to speak out about real issues and that is exactly what this album does. Dead Prez are looking for a few good revolutionaries, and “Let’s Get Free” is the invitation for you to join the team.

Recommended if you like KRS-1, X-Clan and Brand Nubian.