Singles

EOIN BUTLER'Sguide to singles, downloads and free audiostreams

BLUR Fool's Day  Parlophone ****

The first recorded collaboration between all four members of Blur in seven years, Fool's Daywas recently issued as a limited edition seven-inch single to support independent record stores. (Then, as if to underline how redundant that entire effort was, it was made available as a free download the next day). The track itself sounds as though it was recorded in about half an hour – perhaps as an attempt to dampen some of the attendant hype. But it's more than enough to whet appetites for a possible forthcoming album. www.blur.co.uk

THE ROLLING STONES Plundered My Soul  Virgin ****

Plundered My Soulwas recorded during the Exile On Main Streetsessions of 1971-1972. So one is aware from the outset that this recording was edged out for inclusion on that sprawling double album by the dubious likes of Ventilator Bluesand Turd on the Run. The Stones at their bluesy best.

SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR Bittersweet Fascination ***

Not content with fermenting wars and manipulating the world economy, Freemasons are now masterminding Sophie Ellis Bextor’s latest chart assault. Where do they get the energy?

LEE RYAN Secret Love  Polydor **

In which the former Blue singer is handcuffed, thrown into a limousine and forced at gunpoint to perform a very bad Justin Timberlake impression on the roof of an apartment building. There are no winners then, only losers.

BIG BOI Shutterbug  Def Jam ****

The Outkast rapper's debut solo album Sir Luscious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dustyis not due until July. But if this early taster and last year's awesome leaked track Shine Blockasare anything to go by, it should be well worth the wait.