Album briefs: February music frenzy

Andrew Shilling

Staff Writer

“The Rainwater LP” by Citizen Cope

Release Date: February 9, 2010

Clarence Greenwood, originally from Washington D.C., is known to most of his fans as Citizen Cope. His new album, “The Rainwater LP” doesn’t take much of a step forward, although it doesn’t take any backwards either. It is actually very reminiscent of his last three records; there just aren’t any songs like “Son’s Gonna Rise” this time. Rather than putting out a one-hit-record, Greenwood toned it down and produced a more complete LP.

Grade: B-

Download (don’t steal): “I Couldn’t Explain Why” by Citizen Cope

“Another Round” by Jaheim

Release Date: February 9, 2010

Jaheim’s fourth album has a refreshing, retro-70’s vibe. The R&B artist sets the tempo of his new album, “Another Round” with laid-back finger snapping rhythms and heartfelt keyboards under choral background singing.  Nevertheless, the repetitive nature of this album, that which that makes this album entertaining, also makes it a little monotonous.

Grade: C+

Download (don’t steal): “Finding My Way Back” by Jaheim

“Heligoland” by Massive Attack

Release Date: February 9, 2010

Robert “3D” del Naja, Grant “Daddy G” Marshall and Andrew “Mushroom” Vowels of Massive Attack, have been together since 1988.  The group’s subterranean intensity has been their trademark since they put out their first album in ‘91.  It’s been seven years since the band’s previous studio release, “100th Window.” This time the legendary trip-hop band from London is leaving nothing to chance, and has joined forces with vocalists from bands like T.V. On The Radio and Gorillaz.

Grade: B+

Download (don’t steal): “Pray For Rain” by Massive Attack

“Soldier of Love” by Sade

Release Date: February 9, 2010

It was the fall of 2000 when Sade put out her last album, “Lovers Rock.”  Now, 10 years later, her attitude is a little darker and a little more reflective; however her voice is still undoubtedly the best in the of adult contemporary genre. Sade Adu wrote the songs for “Soldiers of Love,” and while some of the hip-hop rhythm on this album may be a little out dated and under- produced, her casually dynamic voice definitely compensates.

Grade: B

Download (don’t steal): “The Moon and Sky” by Sade