This week's singles

A belated Happy birthday to the forever lovely Kylie Minogue! Can't believe she is 40! It only seems like yesterday when she was Charlene in Neighbours, dressed in overalls, working at an Erinsborough garage accepting Scott Robinson's proposal. She was the love of the life of 11-year-old me. And I still have a copy of her debut album, which I got for my 12th birthday, somewhere.

So, in tribute to a true star, this week's selection of singles will be reviewed against the following Kylie-influenced ratings:

***** Some Kind Of Bliss
****I Should Be So Lucky
***Confide In Me
**Never Too Late
*Come Into My World

"Warwick Avenue" - Duffy
One of the best songs off her brilliant debut album Rockferry (which still delights with every listen) and my personal favourite.
Her voice is stunning and the song is gorgeous. Something right from the Dusty Springfield school of soul and proof that she is living up to the hype.
*****

"Mistress Mabel" - The Fratellis
Oh dear, oh dear, oh deary me. If this is a taste of what's to come on the new LP, then it seems The Fratellis have cracked trying to follow up their debut.
Quite plodding and nowhere near as catchy as Chelsea Dagger. Although, having said that, Cheslea Dagger was little more than a moronic football chant so perhaps they are trying to move forward and that will come to light on the new album.
**

"I Feel It All" - Feist
A typically quirky offering from Leslie Feist and her band - sounding both fragile and uplifting at the same time.
Her voice is just wonderful and, amongst a generally strong week for new releases, this gets the nod as my single of the week - just pipping Duffy.
*****

"Underneath" - Alanis Morissette
Wow! This is really good. I don't know why, but I just wasn't expecting this to be any cop but it's great!
The verses move along to an almost trip hoppy beat before the chrous soars and Alanis' unmistakable voice bellows out the lyrics. A lovely surprise.
****

"Guilt" - The Long Blondes
This band so desperately wants to be Blondie. I mean, they even have Blonde in their name!!
This could have been a disaster but it certainly isn't. A decent pop song, powered by a disco beat and jangly guitars.
***

"Falling Out Of Reach" - Guillemots
A terrific, laid back little gem of a record from the talented band, who seem to get better every time I listen to them.
This is perfect for the Sunday morning after a Saturday night out on the town. Expect it to be on TV drama soundtracks before long.
****

"Have You Made Up Your Mind" - Paul Weller
Tut, tut! He didn't put a question mark on the end of the title! But that aside, this is a welcome return to form for the Modfather.
This soulful song sits alongside Wild Wood and Changing Man as examples of his finest solo songs. The sound of a 50-year-old former punk with nothing to prove except that he can still pen a great tune.
****

"I'm Good I'm Gone" - Lykke Li
This week's guilty pleasure for me. How cute is this?! An irresistable beat, helped along by handclaps, and sulty vocals from the Swedish star in the making.
Great fun to listen to. Just enjoy!
****