| The young female foursome, B*Witched, has enchanted European audiences with three UK chart-toppers. Will their hex-appeal wow American listeners? The band's upbeat Celtic pop rhythms and catchy lyrics promise to work magic as the group begins touring stateside. "Let's Go (the B*Witched Jig)" hooks listeners immediately with its inviting "Let's go!" backed by an upbeat fiddle and techno-beat. The infectious, danceable "C'est La Vie" follows; a toe-tapping mood lifter. The album resonates with sounds of girls having fun. That's what this album is all about; it's pure fun. No deep messages or hidden meaning, just a joie de vie that weaves a crafty spell. This is 'head for the beach' music and while it is very 'pajama party' and clich� at times, several heartfelt ballads keep older listeners interested. The Irish instruments tie songs together thematically and add depth to the composition. Not just teenyboppers will hum the bouncy "Rollercoaster" lyrics. The fresh, good mood romp that is B*Witched sometimes sounds like an Irish Bangles, though "Freak Out" with its "Venus" � la Bangles lead in was disappointing. When a new song begins like a favorite older song, I want it to be the older song. The band could use a tighter focus. Blending pop, techno, teen bop, rock, windswept ballads, and even retro-disco does ensure something for almost everyone, but distracts from carving a true niche. Will the next album tout lucrative but underdeveloped teenybopper manna or will B*Witched capitalize on their more mature elements? Targeting an audience and focusing on it seems like the band's next step. Will B*Witched spellbind American listeners? Some of the band's youthful, infectious tunes, like "Rollercoaster", are reminiscent of the Material Girl's roots. Madonna's tunes have certainly woven magic. For listeners seeking a feel-good jig, B*Witched will bewitch. |