AudioFile

Various Artists
Clockers
MCA

While graphic images of dead boys assault audiences' sensibilities, the soothing flow of "People in Search of a Life" proffers a very different, life-affirming message; much of Spike Lee's Clockers (MCA/Universal Pictures) works many such juxtapositions. Performed by Stevie Wonder sound-alike Marc Dorsey, "People" is a molasses-smooth R&B number, a mellow trip into black MOR in a film where there is no middle of the road. As with past ventures, Lee has gathered together a collection of musicians to tell his story. As revealed on the film's soundtrack, it's a bleakly beautiful one, with the likes of Seal ("Bird of Freedom") and Des'ree ("Silent Hero") checking in with a thinking-person's versions of belly-grinders. Four songs deep, things get hectic, reflecting the hard core of the film. On "Bad Boy No Go a Jail," Mega Banton's sandpapery growl rumbles over some cool standup bass and piano; the Rebelz of Authority's "Blast of the Iron" begins with weird atmospherics and then explodes into boom-bap gat-rap. The DJ Premier-produced "Return of the Crooklyn Dodgers," boasting an all-star lineup (Jeru the Damaja, O.C., Chubb Rock), is the highlight, but remorseless "Illa Killa" is a close second. This is a stand-alone effort; you don't need the visuals to get in deep. (Nicky Baxter)

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Gren
Camp Grenada
IRS Records

Gren is good for a hearty smirk because Camp Grenada contains more irony than an adult's recommended daily allowance. Indeed, it's difficult to imagine how vocalist Brett White sings with such clarity when his tongue is constantly in cheek. The album's opening track, "Pop Songs," a spoof on writing insubstantial, forced-rhymed lyrics for pop radio, establishes a satirical mood for the whole album. Gren also induces smiles with the irony of "Ballet," whose lyrics and music are as mismatched as an '80s wardrobe. While White croons, "They seem so free and light and fluffy like a little bird," the bass lumbers clumsily and amped-up guitars assault the ears. Musically, Gren thrashes and crashes out punk-rock tunes similar to all the other bands on the market; luckily, the lyrics and pose are a lot more amusing. (Bernice Yeung)

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Deftones
Adrenaline
Maverick

It's a trip to see a smooth package from a band you've encountered many times doing well in local clubs. Sacramento's Deftones made the Cactus Club, Berkeley Square and Morgan Hill their second, third and fourth homes away from home. Now, their furious, melodic thrash groove has been released to the world via Madonna's Maverick label. Chi Cheng and Stephen Carpenter deliver a brooding melodic attack with more grinding torque than a two-ton pickup. Chino croaks, growls and bellows like a crack fiend; desperately seeking redemption through song. "Bored" drips with emotion and Pantera-like thrusts. "Seven Words" and "Engine No. 9" lose nothing in translation from demo to CD. If anything, those two tracks receive a fresh coat of paint. New tracks like "Nosebleed" and "Birthmark" will appeal to those weaned on Korn, 311 or Bad Brains. (Todd S. Inoue)

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Stevan Pasero and Christopher Bock
Zbra
Sugo

Music this smooth and mellifluous should come with its own dentist chair and patchouli oil. It's destined for Muzak reels everywhere. Unlike most instrumental projects, the songs average around four minutes. Pasero's flamenco-guitar style is textured and graceful on "Zu Tu Talk" and "El Grenada." Bock's percussive flair adds welcome roots and a slap of funk throughout Zbra. Saxophonist Zack Johnson does his best David Benoit imitation but comes up Kenny G. (TSI)

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