Hits and misses

Angie Martinez

Animal House

Elektra

3 Stars



Animal House is the sophomore hip-hop album from the Brooklyn raised Angie Martinez. Previously known as a radio personality on New York's Hot 97, Martinez came into the hip-hop scene with a strong first solo album. Several well-known rappers join Martinez on this follow up, including Lil' Mo, N.O.R.E, Missy Elliot, and Fat Joe. With the success of her single "If I Could Go," she is becoming one of hip-hop's leading ladies. And of course, credit must be given to any female rapper who is able to Almost all of her Martinez's songs are catchy enough to be singles. Filled with burst into the hip-hop scene who is able to garner respect from her male counterparts. club friendly beats and rhymes, Animal House would make a perfect party CD. Just do not expect any deep and profound lyrics, because that's not Angie's style _ you'd definitely be buying the wrong album.

_Tara Kearns



James Yorkston and the Athletes

Moving Up Country

Domino

3 stars



It is quite possible that James Yorkston and the Athletes have created their own genre: ethereal folk music. In their debut album Moving up Country, the Scottish group infuses its traditional folk tunes with elements of jazz, classical rock, and atmospheric instrumental to create a unique and special blend. Along with traditional acoustic instruments, these band members aren't shy about throwing in a violin when the mood calls for it, or a banjo or two.

Moving Up Country is a leisurely, acoustic road trip with unexpected musical pit stops. It begins with "In Your Hands," a shimmering, melancholic tune that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Another highlight is "I Spy Dogs," a surreal, upbeat song about bar adventures and French caf?©s. The album as a whole is an eclectic, laid-back meditation on love and everyday living. Moving Up Country is like that love-worn, favorite teddy bear...in outer space.

_Milady Ortiz



Josh Ritter

Golden Age of Radio

Signature Sounds

2.5

Josh Ritter's Golden Age of Radio is coffeehouse shlock. All right, so he doesn't completely suck. But there are about 50 students at any university in the world who could perform just as well as he. His neo-hippy posturings and obvious obsession with Bob Dylan simply don't do enough to distinguish him from the rest of the crowd. He tries to emulate Dylan's scratchy vocals, but the blues heart just isn't there.

Granted, his mellow guitar and folksy beats make for easy listening, but they are no reason to pick up the album. Go see some equally talented musicians in Boston, and give them the much-needed cash, instead of some record company.

Ritter's songs are good, but they fail to differentiate him from the rest of the twenty-something singer-songwriter crowd. My advice: check out one of his live shows. They're about the price of a CD, and at least you'll have a fun night out. And who knows, these guys could potentially shine live.

_ Alex Moerlein