Latest CD releases reviewed

LEYA
All on the Black Rubyworks
***

We don't generally approve of bands trying to be Radiohead fronted by Jeff Buckley, but these Belfast blokes do it with such aplomb we'll give them an amnesty. This is Paranoid Android with a gambling problem and a finely-tuned sense of drama. Epic.

SOULWAX
NY Excuse PIAS
**

The big club hit off the Belgian brothers' poorly performing Any Minute Now album, this features Nancy from LCD Soundsystem on shouty vocals. Oddly, it sounds more like something their more successful 2 Many DJs alter-egos would spin - and probably mash it up with a Human League track.

SHELLEY
I Ain't Listening Religion
**

This multi-talented Wicklow chick sings, dances, acts and models, but she's also had to battle cancer; that takes some talent. She's signed to ex-BMG man Freddie Middleton's Religion label, so he's obviously got faith in her.

RACHEL STEVENS
So Good 19
***

While we're waiting for Kylie to recuperate, here's a squelchy, sexy disco tune from the S Club babe, guaranteed to keep dancefloors going till summer's end. This one's definitely funky dory.

MISTER-Y
Rubber Lips Blackhorse
*

Hmmm, sounds like 1980s novelty rap has been added to the curriculum at Ballyfermot's school of rock. Mister-Y is rapping about Angelina Jolie's two biggest assets. He'll be giving it some lip at a venue near you soon.

FAT JOE
Get It Poppin' Atlantic
**

Summer wouldn't be complete without a portly rapper performing a poolside party tune. This one features a guest rap from Nelly and is jam-packed with cellulite-shakin' booty. Owww.

JOSS STONE
Don't Cha Wanna Ride? EMI
**

The UK soul teen queen is revved up and ready to burn rubber. She's got a tiger in her tank, and she wants you to pull up to her bumper. Be careful with that clutch, though, or she might suddenly put on the brakes. Ouch.