Coldplay

COLDPLAY couldn't get any more inoffensive if they tried.

The first five or six times I listened to 'Viva La Vida' it failed to make any impression.

There were times I forgot it was even on such is the low key nature of the album.

But as is often said - it's the quiet ones you have to watch.

The subtle melodies start to grow and before you know it - that new Coldplay album's alright, so it is.

Certainly not in the same league as Rush of Blood and certainly not as vital, but if you've bought it, or plan to, the durability of songs like 'Cemeteries Of London', '42', 'Yes', 'Viva La Vida' and 'Violet Hill' ensure value for money. 7/10

Weezer

SOMETIMES you just know before you listen to an album it's going to be good.

The new Weezer album is an example of such a phenomenon.

Incidentally 'The Red Album' also completes their album colour trilogy of blue, green and red.

Despite the fact they've disappointed me in the past I had a feeling I was going to love this.

And I do - opener Troublemaker is nerd-rock at its best. 'Greatest Man that Ever Lived' is a multi-dimensional hip-hop parody and 'Heart Songs' - a who's who of Weezer's influences - is up there with their crowning glories.

Rebellious and riff laden - Weezer are back to their best. 8/10

And the rest

ALANIS Morrisette returns to form with Flavors Of Entanglement.

The Fall carry on their prolific output with Imperial Wax Solvent - their 27th studio album.

Prog rockers Uriah Heep aren't far behind them with Wake The Sleeper - their 21st original collection of songs.

And Babyshambles release a live CD/DVD of their performance at Glasgow's SECC - Oh What A Lovely Tour!

Reviews by Graeme Cousins

Albums/DVDs from discs, Lurgan