Album

So-so stuff chiefly for Pitney fanatics

Cracking comeback compilation includes two stirring new songs

Booty-shakin' mini album from the new Timbaland

Cork's Simple Kid is making a virtue out of being in the middle of the road, that easy-listening, glam-rock neighbourhood that often produces uplifting music. And this Kid knows his stuff. Kicking off with a tribute to David Essex à la "Rock On" for opener "Hello", he then ventures into Bowie meets Lieutenant Pigeon territory on "Staring At The Sun" and turns up a Ween-standard ditty for "Drugs". Most albums that spin around the pop-about-pop axis can fall short and wane, but SK1 retains interest. It's exciting, sassy and funny. T.

Guitar-led jazz from large ensemble in multifarious styles

Next-level drill'n'bass from truculent Pole

Debut release for Boston trio covering all bases from psych-trance to Miles Davis

Quarter-century of Beeb appearances from the Newhaven rabble-rouser

Reissues remind us that Mr Smooth was once an artiste

"Songs of murder, mob law and cruel, cruel punishment" get the once-over