CD Reviews

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Santogold & r & & r & Santogold & r & & r & 3-1/2 STARS & r & & r & & lt;span class= & quot;dropcap & quot; & N & lt;/span & ot finding something to like in the debut album of this future superstar is an indication of not really trying. This woman has all of the skills dispersed in a chameleon-like manner across the album's 12 tracks. Whether she sounds like Tegan and Sara ("L.E.S. Artistes" and "You'll Find a Way"), the reggae-meets-ska mash-up artist ("Say Aha"), or falls somewhere between the dance/synth/indie-pop stylings characteristic on the remaining tracks, a genuine sense of joy and fun permeates every identity. When the contest is started to find an American M.I.A., Santogold will be the only competitor.

Whether reveling in the vocal and musical landscape of the synth-heavy '80s or indulging in the sultry slinkiness of "My Superman," Santogold makes the listener believe every single one of the many sides to her musical personality. She has the ability to bring fans in droves. And she will. A superstar has arrived.

-- CAREY MURPHY

Download: "Unstoppable"

Frightened Rabbit

The Midnight Organ Fight

4 STARS

& lt;span class= & quot;dropcap & quot; & T & lt;/span & he latest buzzworthy Glaswegian four-piece, Frightened Rabbit offers its sophomore album as 13 tracks filled with joyful angst. Mostly exploring the tremors and traumas associated with failing intimacy, the songs exhibit individuals too honest to view the world in an overly rosy garb. Even so, the music is pop majesty in the garb of wrist-slitting downer.

Singer-guitarist Scott Hutchinson deserves a great deal of the credit for the emotional weight of the album. With a voice that succeeds when it roars and wallows, he provides a fine balance point between the guitars and drums, no matter the tempo or complexity.

During "Old Old Fashioned," bouncing along at a toe-tapping pace, Hutchinson laments the effect of the modern age on relationships before projecting his future hopes. The standout track, "Keep Yourself Warm", channels Arcade Fire through a droning organ to reach its climax. And it is the best album title of the year.

-- CAREY MURPHY

Download: "The Twist"