THE ITHACAN

‘Immortals’: Combat strengthens film

By James Hasson, Staff Writer • November 16, 2011

The earth shakes and rivers of blood run through ancient Greece as gods and men fight in Tarsem Singh’s “Immortals.” Despite a tired story, Singh’s offbeat visual style reigns supreme.

‘Seeking Major Tom’: Shatner shines in space-themed comedy

By Jillian Kaplan, Contributing Writer • November 9, 2011

Former Star Trek hero William Shatner speak-talks through popular rock songs on his new space-themed comedy collection.

‘Long Live The King’: Band energizes sound on follow-up EP

By Marissa Framarini, Staff Writer • November 9, 2011

Less than nine months after the release of their sixth studio album, “The King Is Dead,” the Decemberists are back with a more dynamic sound on their follow-up EP, “Long Live The King.”

‘Eleven’: McBride seeks new sound

By Benjii Maust, Staff Writer • November 9, 2011

On her 11th album, “Eleven,” country star Martina McBride attempts to break free of the country mold that has dominated her career.

‘Mylo Xyloto’: Coldplay freezes out former rock style

By Jared Dionne, Staff Writer • November 9, 2011

Two years ago, Coldplay’s musical juggernaut “Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends” was a dominant force in alternative rock music. With the release of “Mylo Xyloto,” the band tweaks “Viva’s” formula for the worse by turning its back on alternative rock and opting for full-fledged pop notoriety.

‘Anar’: Czech musician creates sweet sound

By Lauren Mateer, Staff Writer • November 2, 2011

In her solo debut, “Anar,” named after the Farsi word for pomegranate, Marketa Irglova peels back layers of sound to reveal a rich style.

‘Clear As Day’: Star releases ‘idol’ debut

By Faith Enenbach, Staff Writer • November 2, 2011

Eighteen-year-old “American Idol” winner Scotty McCreery’s debut album features the deep vocals that made him famous and the Southern, small-town roots that inspire his wholesome, country sound.

‘Evanescence’: Goth band keeps style

By Chloe Wilson, Staff Writer • November 2, 2011

After a five-year break from recording, Evanescence returns with a well-structured collection that stays true to the band’s original goth sound.

‘Paranormal Activity’: Third Paranormal installment creates timely fear

By Allie Healy, Staff Writer • October 26, 2011

The newly released part of the “Paranormal Activity” series is just in time to give horror fans an eerie Halloween treat.

‘Fastlife’: Jonas brother missteps with solo debut

By Alyssa Frey, Staff Writer • October 26, 2011

Though Joe Jonas’ schoolboy good looks made him one of the most popular members of the Jonas Brothers trio, his solo debut hides his boy band image with dubstep beats, mature lyrics and a guest appearance by rapper Lil’ Wayne.

‘Wildlife’: Band unveils dark release

By David Osborne, Contributing Writer • October 26, 2011

Three years after the release of its last album in 2008, La Dispute returns with a newfound post-hardcore sound.

‘Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming’: Electronic singer produces dreamy sound

By Jared Dionne, Staff Writer • October 26, 2011

For French electro mastermind Anthony Gonzalez, music has always been about how intense it can get, not how loud. Under the moniker M83, Gonzalez has produced a series of lavish and expansive electronic tracks within five albums, and on his sixth release, M83, he reaches the pinnacle of his lengthy career.