Latest releases reviewed

SHAKIRA
Illegal feat Carlos Santana
SonyBMG

Hips don't lie, but guys tell big porkies, and here's a tearful tune to a fibbing fella, featuring a heartrending guitar solo by Carlos Santana. Dry your eyes, Shak, we're not all liars. Honest.

THE KILLERS
Vertigo

They've donned the gay desperado look and hitched a ride on Bruce's coattails in a bid to escape their fey, synth-twiddling peers. But in their almighty rush down Thunder Road, The Killers have left the tunes behind. OK, who's gonna go back and get 'em?

THE PARLOTONES
Universal

This tune sound familiar? Maybe it's because you've heard it on the Fuji TV ad, or maybe it's because it sounds not a million miles away from Radiohead's Creep. Still, they're so very special in their native South Africa, winning an award for best album, so don't write 'em off yet.

JULIETTE AND THE LICKS
Sticky Honey
H assle

This ain't exactly a kiddie's song about Winnie The Pooh's favourite food, but those choppy riffs and space-cadet vocals should get the young 'uns rockin like Tigger on amphetamines. Merriment and whatnot.