DUFFY-Rockferry, the Welsh singer's lovingly constructed debut album succeeded beyond expectations.The astonishing title track, co-written by Bernard Butler, sounded like a lost transmission that had taken decades to get through . But the gently rolling soul ballad "Stepping Stone", that strapping, inescapable monster hit "Mercy", the ice cool "Serious" (the one time she really does channel the spirit of Dusty Springfield) and the wistful, elegant "Warwick Avenue" are similarly effective. Suggestions by some that Rockferry is little more than sixties pastiche are churlish. Butler's previous work with David McAlmont (featured here as a backing singer) showed his skill at writing and arranging the dramatic, while her other collaborators such as Steve Booker and the team of Jimmy Hogarth and Eg White are hardly lightweights. But despite some wonderful orchestral settings, it's Duffy's terrific voice that makes this so satisfying, even overpowering Butler's exquisitely underplayed guitar work on "Rockferry" itself. Growling the blues on "Syrup & Honey" or belting it out over his lovingly arranged wall of sound on "Distant Dreamer", she sets the tone throughout, several of her songs dealing with escape, both physical and romantic.

LISSIE--if you are looking to give your lungs a hard line shot of oxygen, order yourself a copy of Catching A Tiger. Then sit down or stand up on a chair, on the couch, in your bed, on the ground, or wherever you choose to sit down or stand up...and just listen.

It will also make you want to do a happy dance. Lissie is a true musician. Lissie's band is also amazing. This album is a great musical and lyrical journey. It will take you to places you may not have visited before. Highly recommended. LITTLE BOOTS-This debut album from electronica geek Little Boots has a little of everything, at least if you like a good bit of dance-tinged synth pop. While nearly all the tracks relate to love, relationships or heartbreak in some form, there are still crowd pleasing floor fillers.