Reviews

Damien Dempsey – Seize The Day

Powerful observations on the Irish condition from the new Christy Moore

I, Robot

When good robots do bad things...

Naked Lunch

William Burroughs' novel was long considered to be unfilmable, a theory that David Cronenberg proved with this '91 adaptation. Riffing through the book, sampling scenes from the author's life, with a generous helping of sci-fi horror and psycho-sexual neurosis, Naked Lunch plunges Peter Weller and Judy Davis into a beatnik junkie netherworld. Flawed Kafka on ketamine and arguably Cronenberg's most ambitious work to date.

XX – XY

Excellent, thought-provoking love triangle drama, with Mark Ruffalo for once living up to his overcooked reputation. He's entwined in a threesome at college, but years down the line all the participants have evolved... except him. About to marry, he craves a rekindling of the flame. Not wise. Writer/director Austin Chick keeps it sparky and twisting like a fish, always a jump ahead of you.

Cher

A video compilation that's light on the '60s stuff but heavy on her years dressed as a member of Mötley Crüe: "If I Could Turn Back Time" is particularly fine. "The Shoop Shoop Song (It's In His Kiss)" guest stars the young Winona Ryder (it was from 1990's Mermaids), "Love Can Build A Bridge" ropes in Chrissie Hynde, Neneh Cherry and Eric Clapton, and "Believe" is that irritating gay anthem with the Vocoder hook.

The Foundations – Build Me Up Buttercup

London-based pop collective's chewy hits in expansive format

The Jacksons & The Jackson 5 – The Very Best Of

Blameless boogie from two distinct golden eras

Southern Belter

Much-travelled Carolinian marks return with compelling, grown-up pop record

Pet – Player One Ready

Electro-pop from the heart of Europe

Bill Lloyd – Back To Even

Nashville power-pop godfather returns
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