Reviews

Second serving of highlights and blunders from seminal TV rock slot as it catches up with punk

One of the most revered of Krzysztof Kieslowski's "10 commandments" series, the late director's determinedly bleak parable investigates a pointless murder and a lawyer's subsequent near-existential defence. Out the same year ('88) as A Short Film About Love, its intensity made the Polish maestro a global name.

Axeman of distinction returns with 14th solo album

Tin Pan Alley revisited by Mr Diana Krall

Given the parlous state of contemporary jazz singing (Diana Krall? Elvis, how could you?), Lea DeLaria, a butch dyke from St Louis with a dirty mouth and a deliciously wicked sense of humour, is all the more remarkable. Growing up with jazz in her veins, she was previously best known as a comic (she's also been a Broadway star), but singing is clearly her vocation.

Contemplative fourth album from Thames Valley five-piece

The most exciting US boy/girl duo since The White Stripes

Re-release of albums by legendary '80s Factory band featuring 808 State's Graham Massey

More of the best various-artist releases

US kids learn their letters the hard way