Singles

Latest CD releases reviewed

THE PIPETTES
Pull Shapes Memphis Industries **

With their blend of Shangri-La's, Ronettes, Belle Stars and Waitresses, these retro girls could soundtrack both Austin Powers and Ferris Bueller, and get everybody doing the shag (the dance, that is). Here's their own variation on voguing, not to be confused with that very Irish sport of throwing shapes.

JOSE GONZALEZ
Hand on Your Heart Peacefrog **

He got big singing a song by fellow Swedes The Knife, and now the classically trained guitarist has chosen to interpret the work of those legendary British composers, Stock, Aitken and Waterman, lending an air of class to the old Kylie hit. You can sing along, too - just follow that bouncy ball.

BUSTA RHYMES
I Love My Chick feat Will.I.Am and Kelis Aftermath

It's really called I Love My Bitch, but Busta has toned it down a little to keep it PC. But really, isn't "chick" just as offensive? You try calling your mot a "chick" - she'd smack you up sharpish. The tune? Fair to bitchin'.

IAIN ARCHER
Soleil/Canal Song (End of Sentence) We Love You

If you're wondering why the new Snow Patrol album isn't as good as the last one, blame this Bangor boy. He co-wrote Final Straw, but now he keeps the good stuff for himself. Soleil is for all those optimists who believe the sun will shine again.

BOB SINCLAR
World Hold On Yellow

The king of French fromage follows up his massive hit, Love Generation, with another cheesy disco 'ouse tune, this one boasting a catchy, whistly refrain, a niggly, foot-tapping beat, and toe-curling lyrics about "children of the sky". So, he's on top form, then.

GEORGE MICHAEL
An Easier Affair RCA

Gorgeous George reflects on all the time he wasted playing it straight and apologises to all the girls he's deceived before. Don't feel bad, George - they really should have twigged it after the Club Tropicana video.