Papal Visit Purim Millennium Snow in Jer. Smith and her band rock with the abandon of their mid-1970s punk roots, but with the wisdom of those who are in it for the long run, not just a quick payoff. As usual, longtime fan Michael Stipe contributes backing vocals, but Patti Smith doesn't really need any help. As demonstrated by her uplifting live performance in Tel Aviv last year, and the reckless vitality of Gung Ho, she is just beginning to hit her stride.
Magnolia are proof positive.
The latest Paul Thomas Anderson vehicle was developed hand in hand with Mann's songs for the film. Like a less countrified Lucinda Williams, Mann writes deceptively simple songs that articulate human feelings. A couple of needless add-on oldies by Supertramp disrupt the momentum, but luckily they're placed at the end of the disc. IF YOU think Enema of the State is a funny title for a disc, then you'll love the songs on Blink 182's latest. Like the tradition of snotty rockers before them who unsuccessfully disguised their sensitive, insightful side, from Green Day to The Replacements, Blink 182 can almost make you think they're sincere.