SINGLES

CRW: Loving (Nukleuz) -- This is the sort of tune which makes me wish I had actually made it to Ibiza this year. Sounding very similar in opening to York's OTB, CRW goes one step further by blending in some stonking lyrics which will undoubtedly keep the Ibiza vibe alive and kicking over the Christmas season. (8/10) DH

DAFT PUNK: One More Time (Virgin) -- Trying to incorporate more vocals has proved to be a bad move for Daft Punk. After building a reputation for presenting off-the-wall dance tunes, this songs serves only to prove that even the most original of artists can produce bland wallpaper music if they want to. (5/10) DH

PRECIOUS: New Beginning (EMI) -- The title track from their forthcoming album serves also as the group's fourth single from its and the quality is there for all to see. Uptempo yet sassy, this is grown-up pop if ever there was such a thing. Precious know what they are doing and they are going places with it. (8.10) DH

FIFTH AMENDMENT: Addict (One Little Indian)- This Scottish quartet have the potential to become the next big band in the alternative scene. With a string of great guitar riffs and vocals distinctly reminiscent of Hole's Courtney Love, this song is very catchy. Underrated but with a growing fanbase, Fifth Amendment should find success in the near future. (8/10) CC

ALBUMS:

FATBOY SLIM: Halfway Between the Gutter and the Stars -- With a title like that, it would be fair to expect a good album, wouldn't it? Fatboy, alias Zoe Ball's DJ husband Norman Cook, had a lot to live up to after his last album, and I am afraid he just hasn't done himself justice on this one. Yes, he is trying to be original but it achieves nothing apart from a collection of mismatched tracks with no obvious purpose. Sorry. (6/10) DH

CREAM ANTHEMS 2001 (Virgin) -- It takes a lot for a diehard Ministry fan to admit there is something better than the Annual, but this is one compilation worth shouting about. Packed to the rafters with all the year's big hits, the album is immaculately mixed and contains some real surprises. Who would have thought so much could have come from an album which opens with Sonique's Sky? (9/10) CL