Jet: Shine On (Review)

Jet's toughest assignment is to create another Get Born with one of the most anticipated Australian releases of the year. Shine On is one rockin' album that largely achieves this goal.

One of Jet's greatest strengths is their ability to make an in ya face rocker alongside an eloquent ballad. Surely, this is one of the reasons bands like Bon Jovi are still making records and it is a skill that should not be underestimated.

Of course there are continuing similarities with The Beatles, Oasis and AC/DC on their harder tracks. But who cares? Unless Jet live in a vacuum they will be influenced by someone before them, just like many great rock bands over the decades. Rip offs? Mmmmm....listened to pop lately? I'd rather a band be strongly influenced by the essence of another than listen to digital samples from other songs; something so commonplace today.

But be warned, Jet sound a little different on this album. Lost their way? Nope. Matured in their sound? Yep. Shine On is softer than 2003's Get Born and you'll have to get used to the same quality Jet music, but with a few more ballads in the repertoire. Jet had over 40 tracks to choose from for inclusion on this album, so if they didn't get it right, something's seriously wrong.

Mellow songs include the Beatlesque folk-like Eleanor, the epic title anthem Shine On (slickly produced and ready-made for radio), the pleasantly sounding King's Horses and Bring It On Back, among others.

Those yearning for the AC/DC rock of Get Born should enjoy the lead single Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is and the catchy guitar hooks of Stand Up and Holiday (which thankfully sounds nothing like Madonna's hit of the same name!).

Jet will be criticised on this album for sounding too mainstream and for mellowing too much into a softer rock territory. But there's still plenty of solid rock on this CD to turn up loud (very loud).

Jet should really be applauded for releasing another very strong album that demonstrates the band's consistency, diversity and sheer musical talent. Shine On has something to offer for everyone, is awash with great songs among its 14-track listing and is definitely one of the best sophomore rock albums of recent years.

Outstanding