Alanis Morissette: Under Rug Swept

Alanis Morissette's Under Rug Swept is a welcome break from the depressing alternative and generic pop songs that have littered the music scene recently. Ms. Morissette's latest is a rare CD where every song is a masterpiece. Each one narrates a specific experience from Alanis's life instead of making general statements about life and love, like most of today's artists. "Soon I'll grow up and I won't even flinch at your name," Alanis sings on the aptly titled "Flinch," about a soured relationship that has affected her for over a decade. The first single, "Hands Clean," explains a situation of sexual exploitation from the predator's point of view. "So Unsexy" is a song about taking minor criticisms to heart. Its memorable hook is bound to make it a classic anthem. Alanis has said that her goal is to be as transparent as possible, and she's succeeded. She reveals everything in these eleven songs, although her album title suggests otherwise. Hot bass, catchy guitar riffs and profound lyrics rock through this entire CD. Anyone who yearns for some old school Alanis but is tired of Jagged Little Pill should buy Under Rug Swept. Alanis has returned with a more mature message, but teenagers won't have trouble relating to it. This album definitely deserves a permanent home in the CD player.