VHS : Search

The Sony (PSP) Playstation Portable) packs a powerful multimedia punch within its slim build frame. With wireless internet, video and digital music playback, and incredible data storage and connectivity options, the Sony PSP is a complete solution for the mobile digital lifestyle. Imagine having all of your favorite movies, music and photos accessible in an instant; anywhere, anytime. Not to mention the numerous games available. Sony has combined both horsepower and groundbreaking features into a package that weighs just a little more than half a pound.

Jazz is characterized by democratic group improvisation, so it's natural that artists like the Brooklyn-born pianist//keyboardist/composer Kenny Werner offer insightful and inventive critiques on American democratic society. On his Blue Note debut, Werner's impressive "cabinet" includes trumpeter/cornetist Dave Douglas, drummer Brian Blade, bassist Scott Colley, and saxophonist/clarinetist Chris Potter. With Tower of Power's Lenny Picket in the production chair, Werner's take on the unreality of American life is manifested in techno-savvy computer grooves, acoustic swing, strong contrapuntal exchanges, and genre-bending idioms. "Lo's Garden," "Inaugural Balls," "New Amsterdam," and "Lawn Chairs (and Other Foreign Policy)" are syncopated soapboxes ringing with Kraftwerk/James Brown/Herbie Hancock Headhunter-type rhythms and angular melodies, contrasted by the mournful aura of "The 13th Day," written for his late daughter, and "Kothbiro," from the film The Constant Gardener. Werner's bop, beats, and bytes will live on long after the polls close. --Eugene Holley, Jr.

Originally recorded in 1989, Phish's second record is a brilliant blend of whimsy and wisdom that served notice to the world: these boys are tough to peg. "The Squirming Coil" is arena-rock bluster, "Reba" is winding art rock, "My Sweet One" is quick bluegrass, "Split Open and Melt" is a funky workout, "Oh Kee Pa Ceremony" is jazzed-up country boogie, "Lawn Boy" is lounge jazz, and "Bouncing Around the Room" is irresistible pop. Add to that "Run Like an Antelope," one of their most successful twisting-and-turning instrumental jams, and you have an eclectic yet digestible smorgasbord of styles. What saves Phish from crumbling under their own weight? A palpable sense of playfulness and sarcasm and musicianship that is both loose and demanding. --Marc Greilsamer