USF Bulls Radio

Zeitgeist is long-standing alt-rock band Smashing Pumpkins first new album in seven years, and with all the hype I expected Bill Corgan himself to leap from the speakers and proudly demand, "Did you miss me?!?" But, although offering a solid rock album, Zeitgeist hasn't lived up to its seven year wait. We can always count on Smashing Pumpkins to offer cleverly written lyrics, no obvious change here, except for a gravitation towards more politically motivated songs like "Doomsday clock." This newly lit political falem shines brightest in "United States" with the repetitious yell of "Revolution!" Musically, Zeitgeist offers a different approach to the Smashing Pumpkins, but really what can we expect with only two of the original members contributing to this record? My rating is 3 out of 5 stars.

Happiness Ltd. may be one of the year's most underrated records. Hot Hot Heat has been on the musical market for several years now and it seems that they keep continuing to promise alt-rock that always entertains. Fans of bands like The Killers and The Strokes will enjoy all Hot Hot Heat has to offer, especially on their single, " let me in." Hot Hot Heat's unique stylistic flair comes to its peak through the 60's-like percussion intro in "give up?" For my rating, I give Hot Hot Heat's Happiness Ltd. 4 out of 5 stars.

With his soothing voice and touching lyrics it was easy for me to sit down and listen to the talent in Damien Rice's short college sampler. His songs are very expressive and have a wide range of volumes and speeds. Although there are a lot of positive features to his music, I'm not sure it is the sound that most people would enjoy. It doesn't have the typical "pop" vibe to it. His music is hard to compare because it is so unique; however I would say it is a mix between Coheed & Cambria, Citizen Cope, and Dashboard confessional.

Review by Monica Estornell

Fairly uneventful vocals and lyrics. At times, the singing can border to the point of annoying. Seems to just be another album that tries to bridge the gap between pop and alternative, but Shannon has failed in negotiating any kind of musical treaty between the two styles. Influence of bands like Coldplay are evident and the relaxed-style of acoustic guitar and drum beats may be this album's only saving grace. Making it a possibility to play on uneventful rainy days.

HIM brings a sort of depressing, emotional sound to the rock genre. For the girls who love to sock and want to hear their boyfriend tell them how far he'd go for their love, this album is for them! Some of the tracks were very interesting. I personally liked the first track, "Venus Doom." I most definitely loved to heat the lead singer and the very low baritone backup vocals. It made for an excellent mix.