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Sound Check

CD REVIEWS

5/11/2016

 

Beyonce

“Lemonade”

Parkwood

 

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“You ain’t married to no average bitch, boy.” BeyonceThose words, taken from one of the more devastating tracks on “Lemonade,” should be enscribed on Jay-Z’s tombstone. This album does not mark the first time that an artist has publicly shamed a spouse, but it might be the most complete, and it is definitely the most important. Because not only has Beyonce chosen to use her album to let the world know of Jay-Z’s infidelity, but she has done so on what might be her best work ever. The first half of the album plays out like a public execution. Six tracks plunge into Jay-Z’s heart with surgical efficiency. The latter half, however, softens its stance and indicates that Beyonce is not ready to give up on her marriage just yet. Both halves are unified through their sheer artistry, musicianship and craft. CV

 

Goo Goo Dolls

“Boxes”

Warner Bros.

 

The Goo Goo Dolls is one of those ‘90s bands that you have nearly forgotten about and are probably surprised to hear is still releasing music. Goo Goo DollsEven more surprising, “Boxes” is the band’s 11th studio release, following up 2013’s “Magnetic,” an album that most certainly did not live up to its name. While the previous release had all the sizzle and pop of a bowl of oatmeal, “Boxes” manages to show more flashes of life. “Over and Over” is one of the more radio-ready tracks the band has released, and “So Alive,” with its piano flourishes, is the best track on the album. There are other moments where “Boxes” falls flat, and there is generally nothing here that will re-spark widespread interest in the band, but if you have been a fan in the past and want to see what the guys are up to, “Boxes” probably will not disappoint. CV

 

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