Got our friends, got the night, We'll Be Alright.

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

When I first heard the song "Billionaire" about 3 months ago, I thought Bruno Mars (the guy who sings the chorus of the song) was Travie. I never paid much attention to the song, and I realized Travie was the rapper when heard it on the radio one day and found it to be pretty catchy. Then in May I went to a concert with 3OH!3, Cobra Starship, I Fight Dragons, and Travie McCoy. There was still a month to go before Lazarus' release, so I was excited when he performed 3 or 4 songs from the album. It was at that moment I decided I would get the album as soon as it came out, and that's exactly what I did.

1. Dr. Feelgood (featuring Cee-Lo Green) - Awesome album opener! It's upbeat, and guaranteed to become an instant favorite.

2. Superbad [11:34] - This song is unique in that it's got somewhat of a rock feel to it, and I like it a lot!

3. Billionaire (featuring Bruno Mars) - Who hasn't heard this one? It's still worth the listen once in a while, but after a few listens, it's safe to skip this one.

4. Need You - I'm not sure if I like this one too much. It's just kinda boring and repetitive, and the chorus is annoying.

5. Critical (featuring Tim William) - It's a slight improvement over track 4, but not much, as it's also got an annoying chorus that won't leave your head.

6. AKidAgain - For a while, this was one of my favorites from the album, but after a while you get somewhat sick of it.

7. We'll Be Alright - This is, without a doubt, the party anthem on the album. It ties with "Superbad (11:34)" as my favorite on the album.

8. The Manual (featuring T-Pain and Young Cash) - I usually skip this one mainly because I can't stand T-Pain. It's a shame, it would have been a killer song if T-Pain was replaced by someone who didn't need a machine to sing for them.

9. After Midnight - This feels freakishly similar to "We'll Be Alright", but that doesn't bother me, because it's still a great song.

10. Don't Pretend (featuring Colin Munroe) - I was a little put off by the strange chipmunk - like vocals at the beginning and throughout the song, but it grew on me. It's a dark, sad song with a rockish feel to it. Very good.

11. Ms. Tattoo Girl (featuring T-Pain) (iTunes Exclusive Bonus Track) - A slight improvement over the other song that had T-Pain in it, but it's still T-Pain.

12. She Did It (iTunes Exclusive Bonus Track) - Nothing special, just somewhat boring.

I'm Drunk And So Is Everyone Else, In This Devil Town

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

Had I not gone to a concert last weekend that featured 3OH!3, Travie McCoy and Cobra Starship, I'm almost positive that I would still dislike 3OH!3 as strongly as I did when "Don't Trust Me" and "Starstrukk" were in heavy rotation on radio stations a year ago.

Luckily all that changed last weekend (mainly because the tickets were just $10 - Hell, I paid more for the CD than I did for the concert!). 3OH!3 was definitely the most memorable act of the concert, and they sounded just as good (maybe even better) live than they did on their record. They performed two songs from their new album (out June 29th in the U.S.), but the majority of the songs performed were from their major-label debut, Want. They did also perform a few songs from their independently-released, self-titled debut, but the songs they performed from Want really stood out and convinced me to go out and buy the album.

1. Tapp - The instrumental intro to the album. It's pretty pointless but awesome at the same time. It would have made for an awesome full-length song if it was a little longer and included lyrics.

2. PunkBitch - A fun and wild song that really sets the actual album off on the right foot.

3. Don't Trust Me - The huge smash hit that landed the band on the charts last year. It's been so overplayed, but that's not to say it's not worth the listen every once in a while, especially if you're listening to the album all the way through.

4. ChokeChain - The first of two songs that originally appeared on their self-titled independently-released album. This wild song with its crazy vocals and beat is very reminiscent of something Lil' Jon would do. Very much so that you almost forget that these guys are white...at least for 3 minutes and 32 seconds.

5. I'm Not Your Boyfriend, Baby - I'll sound repetitive if I refer to this song as being wild, fun,crazy, or a party song. That's just the nature of 3OH!3. But that's what this one is.

6. I Can't Do It Alone - This is different from all the other songs so far. They aren't screaming in this one, but it's just very interesting. I can't really explain it!

7. Starstrukk - After hearing the remix with Katy Perry about a million times, it's weird going back and listening to the original. I like it!

8. RichMan - They did this one at the concert, and I'm pretty sure their performance of this made me want the album. It's definitely one of the best on here.

9. PhotoFinnish - I don't really understand this one. Is the title a shout out to their record company? I don't like how one guy's vocals are distorted deep, and the other's is distorted high-ish. It's a weird song.

10. Still Around - A slow, mellow song by 3OH!3?! No way! Yeah, it is! No distorted vocals, no screaming. None of that. It's the best song on the album by far, and I could have it on repeat for hours on end.

11. Holler Till You Pass Out - The second song that was originally on their independently released self titled album. Again, too much distortion of the vocals, and the bass is insanely high.

12. Colorado Sunrise - Another normal one where they just sing! I love it!

13. Starstrukk (Featuring Katy Perry) - THIS is the version we've all heard. I think I still prefer the original one's music, buy Perry's vocals are pretty good and they really switch things up.

14. Don't Trust Me (Benny Blanco Remix) (Featuring Kid Cudi) - Essentially the same as the original, except the first verse of the song was replaced by a rap by Kid Cudi.

15. Still Around (Big Mix) - This is more or less an extended version of the original, but slightly remixed. Either way it's a good one!

You're All I See, Yeah, Oh, But Don't Come Near Me At All...

(Singles italicized. Recommendations are in red.)

The only child of Elvis Presley, Lisa Marie had lots to do to establish herself as her own individual, to prove that she was not simply "The King's daughter". Finally, in 2003, at 35 years old, it seemed to be time to do so. With her debut, To Whom It May Concern, it seemed that the album could be her own personal "letter" to the world that she wanted to be known for something other than being a Presley. A Presley who was married many, many times. In any case, To Whom It May Concern had decent sales, but those sales quickly dwindled, and she was back where she started. I'm not sure why, though. The album was a solid effort and although I only discovered it last year (after revisiting her sophomore attempt, Now What, after 4 years), I still find myself constantly listening to it.

1. S.O.B (Son of a Bitch) - LMP certainly holds nothing back in her first track. With awesome background music, strong and powerful vocals, and out-of-this-world metaphors, she truly starts the album off on the right foot.

2. The Road Between - A song about a lover that's out of your life, but not out of your head. Is there anyone who can't relate to this one?! A+ job.

3. Lights Out - Lisa Marie's debut single. Sometimes known by its working title (which was "Memphis"), it's a song written about her hometown, and her family there. Very good track, with a hint of country in it, but not overwhelming.

4. Better Beware - She's angry, so what else is new? It's not my favorite here, but it's a funky little song that makes you want to dance.

5. Nobody Noticed It - Reportedly written about her father, it's a sweet little soft rock song that's sometimes referred to by its working title "You Made Me, I Love You". Again, not my favorite, but it's worth a listen every once in a while.

6. Sinking In - Here we have another breakup song, but this time the tables have turned! Lisa hurt her man, he broke up with her, but she doesn't want it to end!

7. Important - This song is just plain weird. I don't really understand it. Or maybe I do, and just think I interpreted it all wrong. It's one of the low points on the album, but I don't mind it.

8. So Lovely - This song, written about her children, is just amazing. My favorite track on the album. If you tweak a few of the lyrics in some verses to your own liking, this makes a really sweet love song. I just can't put into words how much I love this song.

9. Indifferent - Like I said in other reviews, the track after my favorite song on each album just doesn't seem as good. I mean, I like this song, but (as I've said before), I think it's all about coming down from the high of the "favorite track".

10. Gone - One of those 'take it or leave it' songs that you just have to be in the mood for. I'm not sure I like her voice in this one. It almost seems like she's howling or something here. I'd say this is my least favorite track.

11. To Whom It May Concern - The title track is (shockingly) about...the medical world? LMP expresses her anger to what she feels are doctors' "There's something wrong with your kids? Drug them! That solves everything!" attitude. It sends out a very powerful message, and this track also has a hint of country to it.

BONUS TRACKS:

12. Excuse Me - (Note: On U.S. pressings, this is appended to the end of track 11). Using only a guitar and her voice, LMP really rocks it. It's quite a random song, but I like it anyway.

13. Savior - (Included at the end of Excuse Me, which is indexed as track 12 on Non-U.S. pressings. This does not appear on U.S. pressings). This song is all about betrayal, and the tone, music, lyrics, and vocals are all simply haunting.

I'm Not Who You Think I Am. Let Go. Get Out While You Can.

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

In early 2003, the music industry was not sitting well with me. Half of my favorite artists had just recently released material that I wasn't too satisfied with, while the other half had seemingly fallen off the face of the Earth. You could imagine my delight when a talented musician named Lucy Woodward released her single, "Dumb Girls" -- a fun and energetic, yet angry song that was just catchy enough to get me hooked. I quickly made it a point to own her debut album, but didn't get it right away (I wound up getting it for my birthday, almost 2 months after its release). It's a good thing I did, too! On a little side note, I found it cool that the album was released in Japan on my birthday, the day I got (the U.S. version of) the album!

1. Dumb Girls - The first single released off the album was a wise decision. As I said before, it's a fun and energetic, yet very angry song that was perfectly catchy. She's warning the listener to expect the unexpected, because anything that can happen will happen. Bravo!

2. Blindsided - This is the song that was chosen for the second single. Many critics and fans aren't too big on this one. They blame this song for Lucy not having more success, but I love it! It's so addictive!

3. Trust Me (You Don't Wanna See This) - Here we have my absolute favorite on the album. Lucy shows her freakier, sexier side on this one, while still maintaining her cool. You go, girl!

4. Is This Hollywood - I used to love it, but now it's not the greatest. I guess it just wore out its welcome after I listened to it for the millionth time. It's still a good track, though.

5. Trouble With Me - The third (and final) single. Another good rock track that I would recommend in a heartbeat.

6. What's Good For Me - You might recognize this from the 2003 Amanda Bynes movie What a Girl Wants. Look out, everybody! Lucy's determined to get what she wants and she will let nothing stop her!

7. Standing - A ballad! It's not a full-out, slow ballad. I'd call it...soft rock. It's a nice song about being strong through a breakup, that I'm sure we all can relate to.

8. The Breakdown - In a weird way, this song is somewhat inspirational. In this rock song that just so happens to be sandwiched between two ballads, Lucy is saying that there's love for everyone out there, you just have to look for it.

9. Always Something - I always used to skip this song for the longest time. I just didn't like having a ballad, a rock song, and another ballad. 7 years later, I've grown to really appreciate it, and it's my favorite ballad on here.

10. Gettin' It On - Lucy gets a little freaky here! She manages to keep it classy, though. She goes all out in this rock track, and it's a very excitable party tune.

11. Done - She slow things down for the final track with a nice ballad to wrap things up. It's a sad song about being used, but her voice is very nice here.

BONUS TRACKS

12. More To Life - Yes, this is the song that Stacie Orrico made popular. Woodward penned and originally recorded the song, but later gave it to Orrico to use. Woodward's version was not used on worldwide versions of her album, but it was used on Japanese perssings. You can't really compare Woodward's version to Orrico's. Their voices are too different, so it would be like comparing apples and oranges. Woodward's version definitely seems superior in any case.

13. Vine To Vine - I have never heard this song. It appears on Japanese pressings and is ultra rare. I would love to get ahold of it!

Always and Forever, You and Me. That's the way our lives should be.

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

Whether you like to admit it or not, you know Britney Spears changed the music industry forever when she released her debut single ...Baby One More Time in 1998, and her debut album of the same name in early 1999. Britney Spears became a household name almost instantly, and ...Baby One More Time not only became her biggest selling album to date, but also one of the best selling albums of all time. Recently, I found myself singing Born to Make You Happy in my head, which triggered memories of when my 8-year-old life was simple, 10 years ago (I didn't purchase the album right away). Flashbacks to me listening to the entire album and enjoying every second of the album. Why not share the love and review it?

1. ...Baby One More Time - Spears' debut single that everyone knew the words to back in the day. Interestingly enough, the song was written for successful female trio TLC (presumably for their Fanmail album, released a little over a month after this one). The girls rejected the song, and it was given to Spears. Good thing, too!

2. (You Drive Me) Crazy - I'm in love with the album version of the song. The "Stop! Remix", which was released as a single, just wasn't as good. Regardless, I love this song. From the electric guitar, to the lyrics, to Spears' natural vocals. It's all good.

3. Sometimes - Normally, I like Britney's ballads, but for some reason, this just doesn't cut it. I guess it makes sense, though, considering Britney herself says she never really liked the song. Oops!

4. Soda Pop - I don't know how I feel about this one. It's part reggae, part pop. Who's that man singing with her? This is one of those songs you just have to be in the mood for. If it's any consolation, Britney's vocals are great at parts of this one.

5. Born to Make You Happy - Oh. My. God. Britney definitely redeems herself (and then some)

with this song. This is such an absolutely amazing and phenomenal ballad and overall song. Her vocals are absolutely phenomenal here, and this is, without a doubt, my favorite Britney Spears song ever. It's about being in a state of desperation for somebody you're crazy about, and I'm sure everyone can relate to it at some point or another. Phenomenal song.

6. From the Bottom of My Broken Heart - I'm not sure if by this point in the record I am still coming down from the high that is the previous track, or if I'm just not a huge fan of this one. I like the lyrics and meaning of the song, I really do. Just something about Brit's vocals or the beat or something is just not doing it for me.

7. I Will Be There - Okay, this is good. It's a simple song about friendship, and Britney really shows off her powerful, natural vocals here.

8. I Will Still Love You (Duet with Don Philip) - Let's just discuss the elephant in the room here for a second. Who on Earth is Don Philip? Well, 11 years later, I decided to do some research. I was shocked to learn that back in '99, he was an up-and-coming pop singer who (by the pictures I've seen) appeared to be between the ages of 16 - 18. His debut album was only released in Japan (I'm guessing it was scrapped by Jive?), and from the clips I listened to he sounded really good. Don't know why he never made it. Anyways! This is a sweet ballad about always being there for your lover, no matter what happens. I enjoy it a lot, but Don Philips' vocals just sound so out of place here. I know I said he sounded good before, but that's when he's solo. His and Spears' vocals both contrast (and at the same time, blend) too much here.

9. Deep In My Heart - Wait. You mean to tell me that you've had this album for 11 years and you've never heard "Deep in My Heart"? Oh, that's because this is the bonus track that's only available on Non-U.S. pressings of the album! It's a good thing, too. Don't get me wrong, it's good, but it's also one of those 'take it or leave it' songs.

10. Thinkin' About You - Meh. I'm indifferent towards this one. I like the verses, but the chorus gets under my skin sometimes.

11. E-Mail My Heart - I don't care what the critics say. This is more than just some 'cheesy ballad'. I personally think it's great. It's my guilty pleasure on the album.

12. The Beat Goes On - This is a cover of the classic Sonny & Cher song. It's just not for me. Britney's vocals are just all weird here. Almost sounds like she's trying to sound like Christina Aguilera here.

13. I'll Never Stop Loving You - A Non-U.S. track. This ballad is just okay, but it's too similar to "I Will Still Love You" and "Deep in My Heart", in terms of concept.

14. Autumn Goodbye - Another Non-U.S. track. Well this one's sorta depressing, considering it's the 3rd or 4th breakup track on here. It's a really good one, though. I recommend it.

(The Davidson Ospina Remix and Boy Wunder Remix of ...Baby One More Time are included as tracks 15 and 16 respectively, but since they're simply remixes, there's no need to review them.)

We Can Live Forever, I Can Be Your Pagan Angel, Angel, Beautiful Dangerous...

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

I totally stumbled upon Slash's debut album Slash -- sometimes referred to by fans as Slash & Friends or R&FNR (that is, Rock 'n' F****n' Roll) -- by mistake. I was browsing the iTunes top 100 songs, and came across the song from this album called "Beautiful Dangerous", which featured Fergie. I loved Fergie's solo album, so I decided to preview "Beautiful Dangerous". Loved it. Loved the energy. The lyrics. The hard rock feel. So I decided to give the rest of the album a try.

I'm not a huge hard rock fan, and I'm still young, so I had no clue who Slash was at first. I Wikipedia'd him (yeah, I just turned that into a verb), and found out he was the guitarist for Guns 'N' Roses. Don't judge. I knew who Guns 'N' Roses are, I was just never a big enough fan to learn the band members' names or albums. I knew a few of their signature songs (Sweet Child O' Mine, Paradise City, Knockin' on Heaven's Door and Welcome to the Jungle were the only ones), but that's about it.

Anyways, I'm glad Slash collaborated with such a wide variety of artists for his record. It kept me hooked the entire time.

1. "Ghosts" (featuring Ian Astbury) - What a great album opener. I'm not too familiar with the band U2, but this sounds like a U2 song, although Astbury is part of the band The Cult.

2. "Crucify the Dead" (featuring Ozzy Osbourne & Taylor Hawkins) - Something about this song is just eerie. Not a bad kind of eerie, though. I like it.

3. "Beautiful Dangerous" (featuring Fergie) - This is, by leaps and bounds, my absolute favorite track on here. Fergie's stellar performance here shows that this chick can sing absolutely any type of music. She rocks it, and she rocks it good.

4. "Back from Cali" (featuring Myles Kennedy) - I have no idea who Myles Kennedy is (don't judge me if I should), but he's a good vocalist. His voice sounds like someone, I just can't quite put my finger on it. Great song.

5. "Promise" (featuring Chris Cornell) - This is my second favorite track on here. It's a mixture of eerie and awesome.

6. "By the Sword" (featuring Andrew Stockdale of Wolfmother) - Here we have a slightly more mellow track, which slows down the pace of the album for a bit, but not in a bad way. It's a great addition here.

7. "Gotten" (featuring Adam Levine) - Levine's voice is so unique. Sometimes annoying at time, but they made it work for this track. It's another mellow track that I love.

8. "Doctor Alibi" (Lemmy Kilmister) - Motorhead's Lemmy Kilmister lends his vocals to this track, that I can't say I like too much. I'm not a huge fan of songs that are screamed, and not sung, but that's just me.

9. "Watch This" (featuring Dave Grohl and Duff McKagan) - Velvet Revolver's Duff McKagan and Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl team up with Slash for this awesome instrumental track that is nothing but fun.

10. "I Hold On" (featuring Kid Rock) - Sure, I think he's trash, but I like me some Kid Rock every now and then. It's a good song, and it's refreshing to hear Kid Rock's voice after not having heard him in a few years.

11. "Nothing to Say" (featuring M. Shadows) - M. Shadows from Avenged Sevenfold teams up with Slash here for an okay track. It's not one of my favorites, but it's worth a listen or two.

12. "Starlight" (featuring Myles Kennedy) - Okay. I take back my statement that "Promise" was my second favorite track on the album. Second place is a toss-up between that and this one. LOVELOVELOVE this one.

13. "Saint is a Sinner Too" (featuring Rocco Deluca) - No idea who Rocco Deluca is, and that's probably for the best. His creepy voice intrudes on this very, very strange track. Skip this one.

14. "We're All Gonna Die" (featuring Iggy Pop) - The man will be 63 years old tomorrow (as I just found out when researching him), but he rocks it regardless. This is an awesome way to end the album.

BONUS TRACKS:

1. "Sahara" (featuring Inaba Koshi) - No idea what he's saying because it's in Japanese, but this song is just pure awesomeness from start to finish. (Appears as track 15 on Japanese pressings.)

2. "Chains and Shackles" (featuring Nick Oliveri) - I'm not a huge fan of this one. Perhaps it's because it's a "screamer" song. (Appears as track 15 on Australian pressings.)

3. "Paradise City" (featuring Fergie and Cypress Hill) - Fergie and Cypress Hill really rock this cover of a GNR classic. It's great. (Track 16 on Australian iTunes Pre-Ordered editions. Also track 15 on Brazillian pressings, as well as Best Buy and Napster exclusive editions.)

4. "Baby Can't Drive" (featuring Alice Cooper and Nicole Scherzinger) - Alice Cooper and Nicole Scherzinger of The Pussycat Dolls lends her vocals to this awesome track. (Track 16 on Brazillian pressings, as well as Best Buy and Napster exclusive editions. Also track 15 on Classic Rock Slashpack Edition.)

5. "Mother Maria" (featuring Beth Hart) - Whoever this chick is, she sounds like Melissa Etheridge. Not too sure if I like it or not, but it'll do for now. (Track 15 on U.S. iTunes Exclusive version.)

6. "Sahara (English Version)" (featuring Koshi Inaba) - The all-English version of the great song that was only available in Japan. (Was available as track 16 in the U.S. iTunes Music Store if you Pre-Ordered the album.)

There's a place downtown, where the freaks all come around...

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

When you first heard the song "TiK ToK" and heard the name "Ke$ha", did you not think she was a Keri Hilson, Nikki Minaj, or Kelis wanna be from the ghetto? Did it ever cross your mind that she was a 22-year-old up and coming singer who originated in - wait for it - Nashville?! No, I didn't either.

I'll admit, I hated "TiK ToK" with a burning passion. But a friend convinced me to give the album a try, so I reluctantly did. I was surprised. Very surprised at what I heard! Seven years in the making, Animal not only shows Ke$ha's potential as an artist, but it shows that she's more than just "that TiK ToK girl". Interesting tidbit, before she was famous, Ke$ha and her family were featured on a season 3 episode of Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie's reality show, "The Simple Life". Ke$ha's family was one of the families the girls stayed with.

1. "Your Love Is My Drug" - The album's current single finds our girl Ke$ha admitting that she is like a "lovesick crackhead". It's a fun opening party track, that ends with Ke$ha saying "Hey / So / I like your beard".

2. "TiK ToK" - I don't like this song. At all. Never have, never will. Simple as that!

3. "Take It Off" - She really redeems herself here after the obnoxious disaster that is "TiK ToK". This one's another fun party song that is not to be taken too seriously.

4. "Kiss 'n' Tell" - Watch out everyone! Ke$ha's mad, and there's no stopping her. In this one, she yells at a girl for being a slut. Nonetheless, it's fun to listen to.

5. "Stephen" - The beginning is very weird, but once the song picks up, you're guaranteed to love it. It chronicles Ke$ha's desperation over a guy that won't call her. It's a nice, slower song, but it's a definite welcomed addition.

6. "Blah Blah Blah" (featuring 3OH!3) - Here's the song that I never ever get tired of, no matter how many times I hear it. It's the album's second single, and it's VERY fun to dance or rock out to, and 3OH!3's verse is pretty awesome if I do say so myself.

7. "Hungover" - My favorite track on the album. It's not typical Ke$ha. Her heart is broken, and she put it into a song. Plain and simple. It's a great slow(er) song that's definitely worth a listen.

8. "Party At a Rich Dude's House" - Like I've said before to other songs on other artists' albums, this is the song that you just have to be in the mood for. The beat and concept are pretty cool, but the lyrics are just mediocre.

9. "Backstabber" - Another song I could do without. It's too similar to "Kiss 'n' Tell".

10. "Blind" - I love this one! She should really do more slower songs. Her boyfriend dumped her, but she won't let him see her at her worst. She knows that he's nothing without her. Attagirl!

11. "Dinosaur" - This one is just so strange. It's about an old guy hitting on her and her friends, and is yet another one I could easily do without. Kinda creepy.

12. "Dancing With Tears In My Eyes" - It's just kinda okay. Nothing really special.

13. "Boots & Boys" - Again, just okay.

14. "Animal" - What a GREAT way to end the album! Bravo, Ke$ha. Bravo.

I've Committed Murder and I Think I Got Away...

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

By the year 2000, if you did not know who Macy Gray was, you had to have been a very sheltered (and possibly amish) individual. Her smash single "I Try" played all over the radio, and her unique, raspy voice was her trademark. It's evident that she put lots of hard work into her debut album, On How Life Is, as her vocals really shine in all 11 tracks.

Personally, I had never really paid much attention to Macy Gray or her (now dwindling) career until recently for some reason. I had "I Try" stuck in my head for days and decided it was time to look into more of her music, beyond the 2 or 3 songs of hers I knew, and I'm glad I did.

1. "Why Didn't You Call Me" - Had a situation like this not happened to me around the time I heard this song for the first time (about a month ago), I would have written Gray off as being over-possessive, creepy, smothering and stalkerish in this song. In it, she expresses her frustration over not having her calls returned by someone she though she had formed a good romantic relationship with (though, in this day in age it would most likely be called "Why Didn't You Text Me".) It's a decent track, and her vocals really hold up against the funky beat.

2. "Do Something" - This is a very motivational track about how you just need to be motivated to "Do Something". It's got a great message, but it gets annoying after a while. Not really a favorite of mine.

3. "Caligula" - From the opening beats of this song (where she sings "Hush / The neighbors hear you moanin' and groanin' / And I just can't help it / 'Specially when we be bonin'") to the closing of the song, it's evident that Macy likes to get freaky. "He wanna fight and make me feel like I'm nothin'," she sings, "Never lovin' / But we're always f****n'", in reference to a guy she is head over heels for. She compares him to her favorite movie (she wants to see him again and again), her disco (he's really groovy), her 7-11 (got her open like an all-night store), and many other things. It's a weird song at first, but it really grew on me, and is one of my favorites on here. Well done, Macy.

4. "I Try" - Do I really need to review this one? We've all heard it. Recorded in 1997 (two years prior to the album's release), this is Gray's signature song.

5. "Sex-O-Matic Venus Freak" - In the most explicit track on the album, Macy explains that she is a "Sex-O-Matic Venus Freak / When I'm witchu", whatever that is. Something about it all seems very retro, very '70s. But maybe that's just me.

6. "I Can't Wait to Meetchu" - This could easily be a Church Gospel song. Gray sings about doing right so when she dies she can get to heaven. It's just an average track, probably the worst on the album.

7. "Still" - A nice, slow ballad about how Macy still loves her ex, although he was no good for her. It's a nice song, and anyone who's gone through this can relate (I know I can).

8. "I've Committed Murder" - This song documents (what I hope are simply) Gray's fantasies of killing the "Mean ol' b***h" who fires her boyfriend from the cafe he works in. They then escape to Jamaica, get married, and have no regrets. It's quite humorous.

9. "A Moment to Myself" - I love this one. Macy's voice fits it perfectly. It's a nice, light, easygoing song.

10. "The Letter" - By far THE creepiest song on here. Upon first listen, it seems like a nice, light song, if you're not paying attention to the lyrics. If you listen to the lyrics, you suddenly realize it's Macy's song about killing herself! Despite the morbidity of the lyrics, Gray's vocals really shine, and I love it.

11. "Rather Hazy" - This bonus track is another good one. I can't really explain it. It's just good. (Available on Japanese and Australian pressings of the album.)

(Wow. Can you tell I really like this album?) :P

There's No Way You Can Stop Me This Time, Or Break This Spirit of Mine!

(Tracks released as singles are italicized. My recommendations are in red.)

Okay, so you could say that I'm feeling a bit nostalgic tonight. I was recently weeding out my CD and DVD collections (both a workout!), and I came across this album. I was reminded of how much I loved it when I first bought it, and after rigorously cleaning, polishing and resurfacing it so it would actually play after almost 10 years (lots of scratches), I restored it to working condition and decided that it would be foolish of me to not review it.

Interestingly enough, an all-Spanish version of the album was released (apparently on May 7, 1999, a month before the regular version was released, but that doesn't really make sense...). It includes the standard 14 tracks -- all in Spanish. Maybe I'll have to hunt down a copy for myself. It's extremely hard to find.

1. "If You Had My Love" - Admit it, you've liked this song at some point in your life. I'll admit to it. It's a simple, yet addictive album opener that lets you know that Jennifer Lopez is here to stay, and she means business.

2. "Should've Never" - Whew! This one's sure a workout! At 6:14, this ballad is the longest song on the album. Six minutes of J.Lo singing about a love she deeply regrets, because she is now in love with two men. Oh my! Now, now Jennifer, don't you know you shouldn't have regrets?

3. "Too Late" - This one is just alright. An angry Lopez tells her (now) ex-lover that it's too late for their relationship.

4. "Feelin' So Good" (featuring Big Pun & Fat Joe) - I'm telling you, even almost 10 years after I bought the album, this song still stands out and is easily the best track on the album. Everything about it is just great - the lyrics, the beat, and the feel-good nature of it all. It's a great party anthem, and no party playlist should be without this song.

5. "Let's Get Loud" - The latin influence is definitely here! This one's another great song, this time about throwing all your troubles away. "Life's a party / Make it hot! / Dance / Don't ever stop / Whatever rhythm" J.Lo declares on this dancefloor anthem.

6. "Could This Be Love" - This is one of those tracks I tend to skip over when listening to, but it's a nice ballad that's a nice way to unwind after the last two energetic songs.

7. "No Me Ames (Tropical Remix)" (featuring Marc Anthony) - Not a huge fan of the Spanish language tracks on this album, but it's an okay song, and this remix is much better than the original 'Ballad Version', which appears later on the album. Not much else to say here.

8. "Waiting for Tonight" - It's back to party mode for Jenny in her signature song that everybody's heard (unless you've been living under a rock for the past 10 years).

9. "Open off My Love" - In the naughtiest song on the album, J.Lo tells her lover just how much she wants him. This is my second favorite track off the album.

10. "Promise Me You'll Try" - This is a cover of the song originally recorded by Diana Ross. A sweet song about how Jennifer doesn't want her lover to make all sorts of crazy (and sometimes unrealistic) promises - she just wants him to try. My favorite ballad from the album by far.

11. "It's Not That Serious" - This song finds us at the exact opposite end of the spectrum in comparison to the previous song. The message is clear here - J.Lo is always one step ahead!

12. "Talk About Us" - Here we have J.Lo at a crossroads. She wants her and her lover to talk about their relationship and what the next step for them is. It's an alright song, but somewhat bland.

13. "No Me Ames (Original Ballad Version)" (featuring Marc Anthony)" - I repeat - not a fan of the Spanish songs here. It's just not that great of a song, sorry to say.

14. "Una Noche Mas (Waiting for Tonight)" - The Spanish version of the worldwide smash, "Waiting for Tonight".

BONUS TRACKS:

15. "Baila" - This one is freakishly similar to "Let's Get Loud", which is probably why it wasn't included on worldwide releases of the album. It's a great song either way. (Only available on European and Philippine pressings of the album as track 15.)

16. "Theme From Mahogany (Do You Know Where You're Going To?)" - Another Diana Ross cover, this was performed many times during J.Lo's concerts during the On the 6 / J.Lo album eras. It's a great ballad. Interestingly enough - both J.Lo and Mariah Carey recorded a cover of this song for each of their 1999 albums (J.Lo for this album, and Mariah for her album Rainbow). Both cover versions of the song were released as a Non-U.S. bonus track for each of their albums. Mariah's version went on to be released as a single, and was included on Non-U.S. editions of her compilation album #1's, as well as on a Limited Edition EP released only at Wal*Mart, called Valentines, which is the only instance in which the song appeared on an official U.S. release of a Mariah Carey album. J.Lo's version has never been included on an official U.S. release of any of her albums. (J.Lo's cover of Theme from Mahogany: Do You Know Where You're Going To? is only available on European and Philippine pressings of On The 6 as track 16.)

Let's Get Lost, You Can Take Me Home...

(Italicized titles are singles. Songs in red are the ones I recommend.)

In the fall of 2008, Lady Gaga was still relatively unknown. Her first single, "Just Dance" had been released, but wasn't getting much airplay. Of course, I'm a sucker for artists who are still fresh or relatively unknown, because their music is always fresh! By January of 2009, I decided it was time to buy her full debut album, "The Fame". At that time, the MSRP for the album was just $9.99, so I was delighted to pick up my copy at FYE.

Fast forward a year and a half later, and here we are. We have Lady Gaga, the superstar, pop culture icon, and dance phenomenon. Her music's still as rich as ever, and with the release of "The Fame Mons†er" EP, we see a whole new side of Gaga...well... Not really.

DISC ONE - The Fame Mons†er:

1. "Bad Romance" - Upon first listen, the song seems strange, but after a while, it grows on you. We've all heard it, so it' s nothing new.

2. "Alejandro" - The brand new single from the EP is a personal favorite. It's clear that this song is an homage to ABBA and Ace of Base, from the beat of the song, to the lyrics and delivery.

3. "Mons†er" - Well, it wouldn't be a Gaga record without a completely eccentric, out-of-this-world song like this one. It's great, fresh, and definitely worth the listen.

4. "Speechless" - A nice, emotional ballad that was planned to be a single.

5. "Dance in the Dark" - Very funky, and a very great song! It just makes you want to go to the club and dance. Excellent!

6. "Telephone" (featuring Beyonce) - The EP's second single that has Gaga and B telling their lovers to stop bugging them while they're having a good time. I tell ya, no matter how many times I hear this, it never gets old.

7. "So Happy I Could Die" - I'm not gonna sugar coat this at all. This song is obviously about touching oneself, and it's one of the best songs that appears on here. It's another great song that makes you want to get up and dance. Very catchy.

8. "Teeth" - Gaga leaves us with another sex song, with a very interesting beat and concept. This song received generally negative reviews by fans and critics, but I honestly like it a lot.

DISC TWO - The Fame

1. "Just Dance" - Who hasn't heard this one?! This song is about letting all your troubles go, being carefree and just dancing. It's gonna be okay. The song introduced me to Gaga, and I fell in love after first listen.

2. "LoveGame" - Catchy at first, but starts to get old after a while. It's still good nonetheless. After all, all she wants to do is take a ride on your disco stick.

3. "Paparazzi" - Not quite sure how I should approach this one. It could either be received as extremely creepy and stalkerish, or sweet and ballsy. After all, it is Gaga, so nothing surprises me. Another winner.

4. "Poker Face" - I went from loving this one (before it was a single), to hating it (while it was hot on the charts when it was first release), and came full circle to loving it again (now that it's no longer played every 2 seconds). Very catchy, very good.

5. "Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say)" - This ballad feels so out of place here, sandwiched between two feel good dance songs. It's a great, welcomed addition, but maybe they should've found another spot for it on the record.

6. "Beautiful, Dirty, Rich" - 'Beautiful, Dirty, Rich' is probably one of my least favorites on the album. Don't get me wrong, it's catchy and good, but it's just not a favorite of mine for some reason.

7. "The Fame" - If it wasn't so repetitive, I'd like it a lot more. That's not to say that I don't like it, it's a good song. Just cut out a chorus or two.

8. "Money Honey" - This one's a take it or leave it track. You just have to be in the mood for it.

9. "Starstruck" (featuring Space Cowboy and Flo Rida) - I just can't get enough of this one! It's so addictive and VERY fun to dance to. Don't let this one pass you by.

10. "Boys, Boys, Boys" - Don't judge me, but I think this is my favorite off the entire album. It's just such a fun, catchy, feelgood song with a great beat and an addictive chorus.

11. "Paper Gangsta" - Catchy, but I'd say that Gaga should do less rap-style songs.

12. "Brown Eyes" - A sad ballad that is full of emotion, anger and sadness from Gaga.

13. "I Like It Rough" - Very kinky, disco-esque track that will have you putting this song on repeat and dancing forever.

14. "Summerboy" - Yet another addicting song about a summer love. Gaga really ends the U.S. version of the album on a high note. Bravo.

NON-US BONUS TRACKS:

15. "Disco Heaven" - I'm indifferent towards this one. It's another one of those songs that you just have to be in the mood for.

16. "Again Again" - This was originally included in the main tracklist on U.S. pressings, but they revised it and rereleased the album without this song, and it's a shame, because it's really good.

17. "Retro, Dance, Freak" - I don't know what's up with this song, it's very weird. It doesn't even sound like Gaga. I'm glad this wasn't included on U.S. pressings.