POP: ALBUM REVIEWS

Natacha Atlas "Gedida" (Mantra)

Her third solo album sees Atlas pushing her brand of fusion into a more complex embrace of the Arab and European worlds. As such, it's not as immediately accessible as the breakthrough Diaspora, but well worth getting to know. HHHH

Steve Earle & the Del McCoury Band "The Mountain" (Grapevine)

The leader of biker country takes a new turn in this joint venture with McCoury's crack bluegrass ensemble. Fourteen great songs and Earle's vocals give the bluegrass sound an edge and variety that it so often lacks. A real triumph. HHHH

Everlast "Whitey Ford Sings the Blues" (Tommy Boy)

The former House of Pain rapper has a new, even rather nice, persona on this redemptive album. He's at his best when playing acoustic guitar and marrying hip hop, West Coast rock and bluesy vibes. Another switch of style and another triumph. HHHH

Jason Falkner "Can You Still Feel?" (eastwest)

The ex-Jellyfish man's second solo album is one of those bittersweet power pop sensations that Americans such as Matthew Sweet do so well. Co-producer Nigel Godrich adds to the adventurous arrangements to create something that should please Radiohead fans. HHHH

Sebadoh "The Sebadoh" (Domino)

After a surprise Top of the Pops appearance performing "Flame", the year's unlikeliest pop stars weigh in with what is bound to be one of the year's best rock albums. Full of tunes. Full of feedback. Full of pure, warped genius. HHHH

SINGLE OF THE WEEK

Monster Magnet "Space Lord" (A&M) If Sebadoh can have a hit in '99, then maybe these fun-loving metallurgists can, too. Monster Magnet bring tunes, real songs, variety and humour to their brand of metal, and this is another top-drawer number from their excellent Powertrip album. HHH