Check out album reviews for the latest music available!

Alex Newell / Power
While his debut offering may just be a sparse five songs, Alex Newell’s Power packs its namesake. And while it’s not supposed to be a full-length album, this seems like such a tease. But for a generation that buys its songs one at a time through iTunes, it seems appropriate, and if these five songs are any sign of things to come from the former Glee star, then Newell is off to a rousing start.

Tapping into his church-choir roots and recognizing the influence of disco to empower his pop, Newell stands out as an artist with staying power. (There is a reason, after all, he stole most of the scenes he appeared in on Glee). Newell’s an artist for our times, who does not conform to traditional gender roles, and he’s pushing vocal boundaries, too. He’s got a voice to be reckoned with and soul that goes beyond his 22 years. (It probably helps that songwriting legend Diane Warren assisted with the lyrics).

The EP’s first song, “This Ain’t Over,” is a combination of deep house fierceness and tender heartbreak that pulls off a highly danceable hit. “Shame” is a much more subdued take on heartbreak but lets you truly hear Newell’s vocal talent. “Basically Over You (B.O.Y.)” is the standout of the five songs, with huge beats, thumping bass and, of course, his soaring voice – nearly assuring that it’s going to be a dance club favorite this spring and into the summer.

For more information, visit thealexnewell.com.

Danzig / Skeletons
Danzig’s covers album, Skeletons, has been a long time coming. For years, he has talked about the project, and now it is finally here. But were these skeletons better left buried?

Most of the covers are from the ’60s and ’70s, back when Danzig was a youth and, therefore, are tunes that lend an insight into what influenced and shaped him as an artist. Anyone who is familiar with Danzig’s music won’t be surprised to see Elvis’ “Let Yourself Go” and Black Sabbath’s “N.I.B.” included, and Danzig sounds right at home singing these.

Not all of the picks are wise choices, however. The Troggs’ “With a Girl Like You” sounds more like a home recording that might have been better left in the vault. But it’s Danzig’s haunting rendition of The Everly Brothers’ “Crying in the Rain” that really strikes a chord. Playing piano and lending his voice to the somber melody, Danzig’s version of the 1962 classic perfectly captures the essence of his dark mystery and vulnerability.

It’s hard not to listen to cover songs without comparing them to their original version. The trick with Skeletons is to stay away from thinking and trust that Danzig knows what he is doing when it comes to making his own mark. Sometimes, he adds new life to the songs, and sometimes, he flounders. This is clearly a labor of love and comes across a project he did more for himself than anybody else.

For more information, visit danzig-verotik.com.

OpnE CG Production / Design of the Dog
Not so long ago, the local music scene was booming with plenty of rock music talent. There was barely a weekend when I wasn’t at a show somewhere in Worcester, Lowell, Boston or the surrounding areas, all dolled up and nodding my head to the rhythm and in appreciation for the many bands that came out to play. The local scene has seemed to have dwindled considerably since. There are still some great bands out there, and as I wait patiently for the second coming, I am happy that there are people like Peter Hubbard. Hubbard founded OpnE CG, a DIY music platform that allows local artists to come together and be heard.

“I love this idea because it allows artists to try different genres and not get locked into any one style,” Hubbard said. Hubbard, who formerly played for Whiskey Bent and helped local favorite Sarah Kenyon out with her band, has recently released a new project called Design of the Dog.

The five-song debut CD features a well-rounded sound that features the four band members, as well as contributions from four other local musicians. The songs are thoughtful, well-written and easy to listen to. They have a mellow(ish) rock style that is modern but also evokes eras gone by. It reminded me slightly of Daughtry. Perfectly executed instrumentals and the beautiful voice of Mike Lussier leaves you anticipating the next album, eager to see what other projects are in store and hopeful that the local music scene will be injected with some adrenaline.

For more information, visit opnegrp.com.