Not so tragic (Tragic Kingdom - No Doubt)

Member Name: benlepensive

Product:	Tragic Kingdom - No Doubt
Date:	17/02/09 (40 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: good vocals and rhythms

Disadvantages: 1 or two weaker songs

This was the album that first got me me into this group. I remember hearing 'Just A Girl' the first time it was released and really liking the vibe it was giving off. This is one of their earlier albums, fusing pop and ska and rock to great effect.

Who are they:

US group, fronted by leggy blonde Gwen Stefani. They were at their peak in the late nineties.

On this album:

The monster hit that is 'Don't Speak' was actually a move away from their usual sound. A powerful power ballad affair with a sterling vocal from Gwen, it gave them a well deserved number one hit. The rest of the album throws up some surprises too.

Highlights:

'Just A Girl' is a fast paced rock belter, Gwen really excels here and lets herself run riot. It is the kind of track Avril Lavigne should have been making! I also rate 'Spiderwebs' as she sings 'Sorry I ain't home right now Im walking into spiderwebs.' I never understood what this was on about, but the quirky nature of it works well with her vocals. Also listen to 'Happy Now?' which has a jaunty chorus as Gwen tackles some fiery bitter lyrics.

Weaker Songs:

I always found 'Sunday Morning' a rather drab affair, melanchonic and needing some life injecting into it.

Overall:

The ska is not too overpowering and they strike a good balance between their favoured ska rhythms and pop melodies. Gwen's vocals were showing promise even in the early years and the album is a rewarding and educational listen

Summary: good effort