Quick hits

'INTIMACY'

ARTIST: Bloc Party

RELEASED: Oct. 25

MY THOUGHTS: Bloc Party's third album packs an array of emotions and edgy rhythms. It helps to be a fan of the band before taking a listen: It takes some getting used to.

The first track, Ares, is a dance anthem whose instruments and lyrics make you want to do more than sing along while driving down the road.

Although the CD is more politically than dance-inspired, the vocals are just angry enough to challenge you to stand up and move. However, the album proves the band's versatility.

Ion Square, a track tucked toward the end of the album, seems to be a song from a dream about an accomplished love life. The mood alone makes it a great song to listen to while driving home alone at the end of a great day.

GRADE: B+

-- Michael Jenks

'THE BRIGHT LIGHTS EP'

ARTIST: This Providence

RELEASED: Oct. 14

MY THOUGHTS: This EP packs a punch in its four songs. There are dramatic differences between each track in style and lyrics.

One of the standout tracks is My Beautiful Rescue (renovated), a powerful song with great lyrics and vocals. Another, Sand in Your Shoes, is a sweet, more acoustic song that makes you stop and think. Although it bears huge similarities to their previous releases, it is still an EP worth buying.

GRADE: B+

-- Lauren Noto

'MADAGASCAR: ESCAPE 2 AFRICA'

RELEASED: Nov. 7

MPAA RATING: PG

MY THOUGHTS: This is a hilarious motion picture in which a band of zoo animals attempt to return to the zoo. As they stumble through a series of events, the characters provide plenty of laughs for the audience.

THE VERDICT: A great film that is family friendly.

MY GRADE: A

-- Michele Falin