Dumbing Up
Karl Wallinger is the man to contact if you misplace yourBeatles"Blue album" and need a quick '60s-like adult-pop fix.Dumbing Up, World Party's fifth album and the first sinceRobbie Williamsstormed the charts with Wallinger's "She's the One," reaffirms hisLennonesque knack for memorable melodies and a hopeful perspective, exemplified by the "Dear Prudence" musicality and post-millennium apprehension of "Another 1000 Years."Bob Dylanfans, meanwhile, will be tickled by the tragicomic "Tombstone Blues"-style "Who Are You." The guitars of "What Does It Mean Now" will haveNeil Youngsaying "no trespassing." EvenRolling Stones' fans needn't feel excluded, for "Always on My Mind," a show-stopping eight-minute plea for eco-awareness, peace, and spirituality, showcases Wallinger's bestMick Jaggervocal affectation.--Kevin Maidment