Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Absolute are a small American independent label established by the former guitarist with the artist formally known as Prince. Dez Dikerson or Oneman (as that's the monkier he chose for his solo project) has so far signed four other artists to the Absolute roster including the youngest rock band in Christendom, the aptly named Squirt who just happen to include his very talented son on drums! This CD gives each actt two songs to showcase their talent so you get a selection of top performances here. Squirt's own 'Learning' and 'Time' re both powerpoptastic bouncy rock 'n' roll tunes which are contrasted by Jill Parr's more stirring, gentle singer/songwriting sensitivity . Her 'Fade Away' has been much played on Cros Rhythms radio and rightly so as it's a fab song. Mean while Plush push modern a rock sound and Believable Picnic seem to mesh together a blend of edgy rock and soul and pop topped by strong vocals. None of these bands have British distribution yet so this is an excellent way of getting ahead of the crowd! A strong compilation topped off by the inclusion of two sings from Oneman's brilliant solo album. Worth buying just to get a taste of that!

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