Music reviews: Kasabian and more

World Series: Barceona, Hed Kandi

First off, let us just say we love that this double CD comes with a cute city guide to Barcelona's hotspots - nice touch. The compilation is mixed by Hed Kandi's headline DJs - Greg Myers and Sam Cannon - and is a collection of music that epitomises the hedonistic, fun-loving Mediterranean city that is Barcelona. On the double CD set you'll find pure party tunes from the likes of David Penn, Jamie Jones and Waifs And Strays. We rate disc one over disc two, simply because it includes the ultimate fiesta track, Patrick Hagenaar's L.O.V.E.
Rating 3 out of 5
Dh110, Virgin Megastores

Velociraptor!, Kasabian

Leicester's first boys of indie-rock have hit the charts again, and fans worried that the fourth release was going to disappoint needn't worry. Songs like title track Velociraptor! and Days Are Forgotten are a nod to the glory days of their first two offerings, but the highlight of the album for us is recent single, Goodbye Kiss, the wistful track borders on a ballad, but don't worry, drums still drive the song. While lead singer Tom's claim that the album would "change people's lives" might not quite be true, it's an album we recommend wholeheartedly.
Rating 5 out of 5
Dh60, Virgin Megastores

Smash Hits 2012

No, we didn't know that Smash Hits were still delivering albums either, but we were delighted when we stumbled upon this tune-packed compilation. From beginning to end, this is one to put on when getting ready for a night out with the girls. The get-up-and-go collection kicks off with Adele's Set Fire To The Rain and other highlights include Katy Perry's TGIF and Emili Sandé's Heaven. While tracks such as James Blunt's Dangerous and Good Charlotte's Last Night don't really fit the girlie label, they work well with Swedish House Mafia's Save The World and Gym Class Heroes' Stereo Hearts.
Rating 3 out of 5
Dh60, Virgin Megastores

High Flying Birds, Noel Gallagher

We're sure a few fans were concerned that the death of Oasis would be the last we'd hear from Noel G, but the older and slightly less conceited of the Mancunian brothers has proven that he can write and sell hit records with or without his younger brother. There's an inevitable Oasis feel to High Flying Birds, with Noel's distinctive vocals leaving you in no doubt who you're listening to. Tracks like Everybody's On The Run and If I Had A Gun are the best songs we've heard from Noel since his Morning Glory heyday.
Rating 4 out of 5
Dh60, Virgin Megastores