July 27, 2004 Online Since 1996 Vol 78 No. 58
The Appalachian | Entertainment
This foul-smelling kitty deserves to be left out in the cold

Ryan Finn
Staff Writer

How does one approach a review of “Catwoman” without exaggeration or those oh-so-rich puns? It’s already suffocating under the weight of a harsh, unyielding, thundering negative critical reception (not unfairly I might add). However, I think critics are enjoying their play a little too much.

A bad film like this comes along and they dog pile it, usually laboring under the pretension that they are the first to think of that hilarious joke or pitiful hyperbole. The best thing to do is just take a deep breath, rationally reflect on the film and calmly tear it apart.

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Two must-have albums of Summer 2004 and beyond
Taking Back Sunday is emo rock for everyone
Ryan Finn
Staff Writer

The band Taking Back Sunday needs to be taken seriously this time, very seriously. Their new album “Tell All Your Friends” was originally released in 2002 but is being re-released in stores this week. The album will contain some of the original albums’ tracks while adding some spanking new ones. The emo-band from Amityville, New York has everything some poor schmo would need to help get over the loss of a Machiavellian girlfriend and then some.

The bands first single “Cute Without The ‘E’ (Cut from the Team),” really gives both singers in the band their own chance to shine. While Adam Lazzara is crooning melodically on the track with a meaningful twinge of sorrow and regret in his slightly acidic voice, in comes guitarist/singer John Nolan out of nowhere with ear-shredding hardcore guitar an a slit-throat, banshee rasp that actually fuses the band together and eliminates any seems.

There is no filler on “Tell All Your Friends.” From “Great Romances Of The 21st Century” to the pop-laced “You’re So Last Summer” the album really sticks to a single blueprint of telling you stories of heartbreak and pain while all the while smacking you in the mouth with wicked instrumental play.

“Tell All Your Friends” is a must have summer album that is sure to find its way into your car stereo long after the dog days have come and gone. 3.5 out of 4 stars.
The Killers simply the best album this year
Ryan Finn
Staff Writer

Pretend for a moment that its 1983 all over again. That is what The Killers have done. Their new album, “Hot Fuss,” is a tribute to 1980’s pop rock complete with scorching synth play and the “Miami Vice” sport jackets to match.

The Killers first single is the tart-laced “Somebody Told Me” that takes off like an Air Force Super Hornet thanks to surging synthesizers and a wickedly addictive chorus by lead singer Brandon Flowers.

“Somebody told me you had a boyfriend/ Who looked like a girlfriend/ That I had in February of last year,” Flowers screams.

Other tracks like “Believe Me Natalie” and “Andy, You’re A Star” really solidify the band's pop rock genius.

“Hot Fuss” is completely incredible. There is not one bad track on the album.

The Killers single-handedly prove that rock is alive and well and making a comeback. “Hot Fuss” is truly the best album I have heard all year. The Killers’ “Hot Fuss” easily earns its four out of four stars.
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