Sample Jet's new album, 'Shine On'

By: Teresa Hou

Posted: 10/10/06

A first listen of Australian rock group Jet's new sophomore album, "Shine On" immediately brings back memories of the quirky, energetic, guitar/drum driven songs that made Jet a household name with their first album.

But delve deeper and you suddenly find yourself at the mercy of an album that has symptoms similar to that of a person with bipolar disorder.

In "Shine On," Jet changes emotional gears of their songs quicker than actress Elizabeth Taylor changes husbands.

One minute, it's an energy-induced head-banging number, and the next its a Beatles-esque ballads, something that can be quite daunting when all you want to do is "rock out." Irritating as it may be at first, bipolar fits for Jet. The slow songs work out in a way like a nap in between a busy day.

"Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is," the first single off the album is by far the breadwinner of the group. Reminiscent of Jet's debut single, "Are You Gonna Be My Girl," it has lead vocalist Nic Cester showcasing his falsetto voice, which, if he wanted to, could give Justin Timberlake a run for his money.

With "Shine On," the boys of Jet have noticeably been influenced by the likes of such British groups as the Beatles and former tour mates, Oasis. In fact, one could even say that Nic and brother Chris Cester (drums) are the Australian version of Oasis's Gallagher brothers.

But before we rule out Jet as another wannabe band, rest assured that in "Shine On," they take their influences and skillfully create 15 tracks of 100 percent Jet sound.

While hip-shaking beats and swaggering guitar riffs are what Jet is commonly known for, the band displays a softer side with songs such as the waltz-like ballad "Kings Horses" and the Everly Brothers inspired "Eleanor."

Inspiration comes in many forms and for the Cester brothers, the recent death of their father has evidently influenced the presence of more soulful ballads in the new album.

The title track "Shine On" is a tribute to the Cesters' late father, with a background choir and lyrics such as "Although I leave you here this night/ where ever I may go how far I don't know/ but I will always be your light," will compel even the most emotionally challenged man to tear up a little.

For fans worried that Jet has ventured to the world of ballad-rock, don't worry. With songs like "Stand Up" and "Rip it Up" that pump out acid-ridden guitar licks and groove-worthy beats, Jet proves they're still as brazen as ever.

Although "Shine On" is copious in tracks that sound like it belongs on an album by the Beatles or Oasis, somehow Jet makes the concept of thievery okay with their dance-worthy tunes and harmonious ballads.

Jet's "Shine On" is in stores now.

3 out of 5 stars.

Listen to Jet's 'Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is'

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