SINGLES:

BELLATRIX: Jediwannabe (Firece Panda) -- Re-releasing this on the back of a tidal wave of media support, the Icelandic five-piece are reaching a make or break scenario. No prizes for guessing that the epic film Star Wars provides the theme for the band's witty and ironic lyric. But after producing such a catchy melody mixed with Eliza's charming vocals, if the music fans don't catch on soon their days may be numbered. (9/10) CL

PLANET PERFECTO: Bullet In The Gun (Perfecto) -- Played to death on radio stations and rightly so, this high-speed, up-beat track has become one of this year's biggest summer anthems. It'll be a huge hit and one you won't tire of. (9/10) DH

FINLEY QUAYE: Spiritualized (Epic) -- The maverick's first single in nearly two years is an energetic dose of power-blasting Finley-rock. Capturing a new sound with crystal vocals, its joyous message surrounds the emotions and intensity he felt at the birth of his latest child. (8/10) CL

AURORA FEATURING NAIMEE COLEMAN: Ordinary World (Positiva) -- With the current trend for sampling hit singles from the '80s, it was only a matter of time before a Duran Duran track got the Y2K treatment. Fortunately, Aurora haven't done badly with his one, making it a tune you can listen to and dance to as well. (8/10) DH

ALBUMS:

DUBSTAR: Make It Better (Food) -- The triumpant feel to Make It Better is all about Dubstar putting to rest and reconciling personal problems within the group. Now refreshed and regrouped, the 12 band's new songs still simmer with the frustrations of old but carry a new optimistic approach. A times singer Sarah Blackwood's voice carries more than a passing resemblance to Wendy James. But with the staccato techno pulse of opener, Take It, which deals with power imbalance of a relationship or the simply beautiful Self Same Thing, this is collection of quality, if very forthright, songs. (9/10) CL

ALEX LLOYD: Black The Sun (EMI) -- Lyrics that stop you in your tracks mark out this album from Australian Alex Lloyd. With a sound which combines whiffs of Coldplay, Echo and the Bunnymen and Peter Gabriel, it is hard to pinpoint Alex's exact style, which is probably what makes this such an enjoyable listen. That and its hypnotic aura make it an album you won't forget. (8/10)DH

URUSEI YATSURA: Everybody Loves Urusei Yatsura (ONI) -- Back with their third full album and the first on their own label, Urusei Yatsura are obviously revelling in the freedom. This latest album simply shimmers with guitar-driven melodies. From the excellent new single Louche 33 to the squall Of Our Shining Path it's all top drawer stuff. (9/10) MA