The two CDs today come from artists who help prove music is alive and well in 2012. The Vaccines is like a shot in the arm for those who still reminisce about the punk era and bands of that time like the Ramones. As for the artist known as Pink, beyond her sideline as trapeze artist and gymnast, her CD shows that marriage hasn’t tempered the spunk and bravado.
The Vaccines — Come of Age (Columbia Sony). A guitar-driven British rock act that had critics and fans scrambling for superlatives when its first album hit the streets, The Vaccines shows more maturity and variety of music in its sophomore effort. There are traces of the Doors, Echo and the Bunnymen, and most importantly, the Ramones in the music you’ll find here. LoFi, Garage, Punk-Pop, neo-Surf — there are many ways one can describe the general feel of the music, but what stays is the impression of a band that’s playing it loose, while being supremely cocky. No Hope and Teenage Icon would be the best songs to introduce one to the band’s music, while songs like Aftershave Ocean show just how ambitious it is trying to be on this CD. Weirdo is one tune that should find instant favor among fans, given how the chorus is so accessible to sing along to. The album sounds slapdash and spontaneous, yet belies the careful confidence and tight arrangements found therein.
Pink — The Truth about Love (RCA Sony). I’ve blown hot and cold with Pink over the years, and I’ve approached this CD with caution. I have to admit though that this is the most consistent, musically adept set of songs she’s put together in one album. There’s a little bit of her rock roots, some of the pop tweaks she dallied with and strong ballads that show off her vocal range. Some songs had me thinking early Avril Lavigne and No Doubt, but always quintessential Pink, thanks to her use of four-letter words. Try is the choice ballad, while the collaborations with Eminem and Lily Rose Cooper (formerly known as Lily Allen) are strong favorites. But I like best the duet with Nate Ruess of FUN. Blow Me and Slut Like You are her angry songs and they showcase Pink in fine fettle, proving that the fierce independent spirit she first gained notice for is still burning bright. If you ever liked Pink or one of her songs, this is a CD that you should give a listen to, with enjoyment guaranteed.