98 August 2009.indd - Ion AZ

Written by Jackson David Kelly
davekjackson@cox.net
Yo, DJ!
What’s New?
Though album releases will be light in
August, in addition to these great offerings,
fi nd new material from Third Eye Blind,
Modest Mouse, Lil Wayne (tentative), Reba
McEntire as well as Mariah Carey’s Memoirs
on the 25 th .
Imogen Heap Ellipse (8/25)
After spending a year in
post production/writing,
Imogen’s third album
fi nally sees the light
of day. Full of worldly
sounds, eccentric
instruments and Imogen’s
classic, breathy vocals, Ellipse continues the
feel of “Speak for Yourself.” Lead single “First
Train Home” gives the perfect introduction
with its commercial, catchy, bubbly sound
while tracks “A-ha” and “Bad Body Double”
take a sharp turn to the right with their
harsher, off the wall feel. However, it’s “Little
Bird’s” modern day lullaby and “Tidal’s”
beautiful emotive resonance that bring this
collection to full greatness.
Anjulie Anjulie (8/4)
MySpace phenomenon
Anjulie is ready to prove
why Rolling Stone calls
her the one to watch in
2009. A three track EP
was available last year
to great applause and
her fi rst full length will continue that roar.
Part Nelly Furtado, MIA, Lily Allen and
Winehouse, this artist soars with a 60s vibe.
Though lead single “Boom” is a bit trite
(except for the remixes), the track “Heat”
slithers with a Beyoncé-esque vibe while
“Day Will Soon Come” gives good soul with a
sound reminiscent of Mariah’s best. And then
there’s “Love Songs;” a sleek, heart warming
joyous ditty sure to please.
Mutemath Armistice (8/18)
On their second album,
Mutemath takes a 180
degree turn. While their
debut was more piano
driven, this album rocks
with amped up steroids
and showcases a Muse/
U2 edge. Lead single “Spotlight” is one of
the best rock singles to come out this year
while “Nerve” is a drum infused track that
sounds right out of the 70s. Other songs of
note include “Clipping” and “Burden.” Less
melodic, more classic with a darker raw edge
is the best way to sum up this album.
Michael Jackson Dangerous
It’s been one month since
his passing and a month
that is still void (yes I
teared with his passing).
So in honor, I offer my
favorite MJ album and my
18 th favorite record of all
time. Not only does it contain the perfect pop
tunes of “Black & White” and “Remember
the Time” but it houses two of his most
riveting ballads, “Heal the World” and “Will
You Be There.” And what sets this release
apart is the creativity he takes with “In the
Closet,” “Why You Wanna Trip” and my
album favorite “Who is it.” Music will never
be the same without this pioneer, genius and
entertainer.
In other music news, Madonna’s greatest
hits and last album for WB is set for 09/25.
Though exact packaging and track listing
cannot be revealed, it is confi rmed that two
new songs will be included; “Broken” and
“Celebrate.” There have been rumors of
additional Oakenfold, Mirwais and Lil’ Wayne
(Revolver) tracks as well, but as this album
will already be packed, expect those to be
shelved. Until next month…
34 WWW.IONAZ.COM August 2009 August 2009 WWW.IONAZ.COM 35