On the record

On the record

Artist: The Groove, Album: Mata Telinga & Hati (Sony Music)

This Bandung-based band is one group that doesn't have to worry about a sophomore slump, with their second album proving bolder and funkier than the first.

It features 10 tracks with crispy rhythms and funky beats that you can't help but dance to.

Groove -- Rieka and Reza (vocals), Ali (piano), Youke (bass), Rejoz (percussion), Deta (drums), Tanto (keyboard) and Ari (guitar) -- have stayed loyal to the sound of their first album: acid jazz and funk.

Most of the songs are upbeat, except for Kau Membisu (You Keep Quiet) and Sinarnya (The Light), where the pulse has been toned down.

The first single, Khayalan, is a joyful and catchy number, while Sepi (Lonely) is reminiscent of the Indonesian jazz music of the '80s.

On the B side you will find a song in English, My Music (Na Na Na Song). Not bad. Buying this album would definitely not be a bad investment.(Hera Diani)

Artist: Michael Jackson, Album: Invincible (Sony Music)

Teenagers who are into boybands or Limp Bizkit and Slipknot would probably not be too pleased if they listened to Michael Jackson's new album, Invincible, his first album of new material in six years.

They would probably wonder how this skinny dude got the title the King of Pop.

Don't blame them, though. There is not much of a thrill on Jackson's new album, if there is any thrill at all.

Jackson seems to be unable to stop living in the past, giving us his same old sound (jerky rhythms) and self-centered, self- pitying ballads.

And Jackson seem to be a bit insecure, bringing in dozens of collaborators and guest stars for the album, including Carlos Santana (Whatever Happens), Notorious B.I.G. (Unbreakable), Babyface (You Are My Life), R. Kelly (Cry) and Chris Tucker (You Rock My World).

Well, MJ, don't think they can help you win back the title. And your heavy-on-the-cameos music videos and popping up at 'N Sync concerts won't do it either.(Hera Diani)