Music reviews
By Lara Hendrickson
and Braden Howell
Features Editor and Sports Editor

Voodoo Organist — “The Return of the Voodoo Organist”
Hmmm. Well, I must admit I was immediately skeptical of my feelings for the CD, due in part to the title and in part to the Manson-esque cover, but I tried to listen with an open mind and here’s my damage. Scott Aaron Wexton is a haunting, one-man lounge act from Silver Lake, Calif., who’s CD sounds like a cross between blues, Devo and music best suited for a Halloween party. Some of the organ-based music is remotely catchy, but the lyrics sound like something a ninth-grade wannabe punk rocker might have come up with. I believe I will be sitting this concert series out.

Mark Ronson — “Here Comes the Fuzz”
Mark Ronson’s debut album is not in the least his debut into the music world. The producer/songwriter/DJ displays all of the above, with his culture clash of musical guests. The album features the likes of Sean Paul, Q-Tip and Nappy Roots. He has already worked with Jay-Z, Outkast and Nelly Furtado. Ronson has done a good job using a completely integrated sound. The listener never knows what to expect from one track to the next, and the sounds never become redundant. With a mix of techno, R&B, rap and soul, “Here Comes the Fuzz” provides the kinds of sounds that will constantly keep you smiling.

The Necro Tonz — “Welcome to Cocktail Hell”
For anyone not familiar with the Necro Tonz, like myself, be prepared for the unexpected. A glance at the CD cover, featuring the band in their very best KISS attire, and a quick run through of the song titles would suggest a hard hitting, Rob Zombie-type of sound. Instead, the listener is greeted with a comfortable jazz, lounge-band type of sound. The voice of the band’s lead singer, who goes by Necrophilia, Diva of the Dead, is methodic, and at times even enticing. The music sounds inviting, but the lyrics will keep people confused. Although known for good live shows, the Necro Tonz are definitely an acquired taste.

Skrape — “Up the Dose”
This Florida based rock band’s sophomore album will also surprise some listeners. Even those not interested in heavy, metallic sound will be able to enjoy this CD. As suggested by the album title, “Up the Dose,” the CD is full of suggestive lyrics featuring drug use and sexual desires, but not to the point where it becomes cliché. The acoustic track, “Searching for Home,” is a nice change of pace and shows that lead singer Billy Keeton is capable of carrying a tune without the powerful sounds of his band behind him. Whether you decide to listen to it in the car or blast it at home to scare away the neighbors, “Up the Dose” is a CD that works on many different levels.