Latest CD releases reviewed

FELIX DA HOUSECAT
Rocket Ride Emperor Norton
***

Don't you want some love action? Then strap yourself in for a trip on Felix's retro rocket, going all the way back to 1980s electropop. Finally, my Human League Love and Dancing 12" is trendy again.

THE BETA BAND
Out-Side Regal
****

Don't be fooled by the catchy, oddly familiar riff - Steve Mason & Co definitely ain't your stepping stone. People say The Beta Band monkey around, but this tune is a pleasant valley sundae.

PADDY CASEY
Want It Can't Have It Sony
*

Paddy's gone platinum, won a Meteor Music Prize, and probably holds the busking marathon title, but this awkward little ditty won't win him any songwriting contests. Don't want it.

NINA SKY
Move Ya Body Universal
**

Nina is actually two identical twins, Nicole and Natalie, and they're gonna kick the Cheeky Girls' asses with this tune that bumps 'n' grinds in all the right places. Booty sandwich, anyone?

RACHEL STEVENS
Some Girls 19/Polydor
**

Some girls will do anything to keep their career on track; the ex-S Club babe has decided to jump on Goldfrapp's train, with a sexy electropop dance tune. I'll wait for Alison's next one.

ELBOW
Grace Under Pressure V2
***

Call the Guinness Book of Records: Guy Garvey and his gang have stuffed the London Gospel Community Choir and the entire crowd at Glastonbury 2002 onto one tiny little CD single. Wouldn't want a lift in their mini.

JAMELIA
See It in a Boy's Eyes Parlophone
****

After Thank You, we're taking this UK r 'n' b looker seriously. So is Coldplay's Chris Martin, who co-wrote this and also contributes piano and backing vocals. Worth a listen.