DUDS OF THE MONTH

Joanna Newsom
"Ys"
(Drag City)

Original is one thing, worth doing another -- and if only indie ideologues knew the difference. So much that is sprightly about the debut is subsumed here by ambition, to be kind, and privilege, to be brutally accurate. The through-composition does gain melodic grace over time but would mean little without the ministrations of Van Dyke Parks, whose fancy stuff requires simpler tunes than Newsom wishes to provide. And the libretto -- ach Gott! Supposedly inspired by milestones in Newsom's life, these whimsical pastoral allegories reveal only that her taste for the antique is out of control. All those who gave this a rave should proceed directly to Edmund Spenser's "The Faerie Queene" or John Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress." The new Arcade Fire will only waste their time.

Brazilian Girls
"Talk to La Bomb"
(Verve Forecast)

The idea that Sabina Sciubba is sexy and sophisticated assumes that one finds sophistication sexy. Many do, of course, especially when shows of sensuality sweeten the deal. But some of us would rather that shows of warmth broke the ice. If only she was as sophisticated as she thinks she is. Or as funny.

MORE DUDS

Angels and Airwaves
"We Don't Need to Whisper" (Suretone/Geffen)

Beach House
"Beach House" (Carpark)

Bright Eyes
"Noise Floor (Rarities 1998-2005)" (Saddle Creek)

The Clientele
"Strange Geometry" (Merge)

Diddy
"Press Play" (Bad Boy)

The Game
"Doctor's Advocate" (Geffen)

Scott Walker
"The Drift" (4AD)

Rihanna
"A Girl Like Me" (Def Jam)

Shawnna
"Block Music" (Disturbing Tha Peace/Def Jam)