Volume

Based on bandmember Andy Cox's past in the Fine Young Cannibals and the English Beat, it's no surprise that Cribabi is pure pop — with a bit of a creative world music feel to it. Cox handles all the instruments, throwing in a lot of keyboard work that opens up the album in almost a tribal manner on "Everything Is Nothing" and moves it along from there. Singer Yukari Fujiu does all the vocal work, and sings quite smoothly. Her vocals could pass for Madonna or any American pop singer; it's the music that throws things for a loop, as the second song continues to show diversity by utilizing an Indian influence while still maintaining a pop base. Throughout these 13 songs, Cribabi isn't afraid to take from various styles beyond the typical British rock that forms the foundation of the music. While the diversity is there and pop success is virtually assured, a few more risks on the album would've been nice. Moving more into the world music field might have shown off Cribabi's fuller potential, as well as letting Fujiu develop her voice into more Portishead-type territory, as heard on "You're So Sweet" and a few other tunes. Not a bad start, though, and with this act's press and name association, no doubt good things are in store.