Reviewed by Andy Shaw

Hailing from Clinton, Mississippi, Jonezetta return with their follow-up to 2004's 'Popularity'. With critical acclaim heaped on their debut album it was always going to be difficult to follow it up. Like planning the perfect first date and trying to decide what to do next! In 'Cruel To Be Young' Jonezetta have struck the middle ground. They have departed from the more dance-tinged rock of their debut release with a more radio friendly and polished sound. This is the sign of a band that is maturing, evolving and refining their sound. The first song to be released from the album, "Paint And Picture", shows off a decidedly British rock sound with an opening that wouldn't sound out of place on a Coldplay record. This may come as a disappointment to fans of 'Popularity' but there are still songs which show signs that they have not completely abandoned their roots with the distortion of "Sick In The Teeth" and "Wide Awake". The downside is that two or three songs open strongly but then fail to deliver the soaring chorus that we were hoping for. All this said, this is still a good record.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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