SINGLES:

MANCHILD FEATURING KELLY JONES: The Cliches Are True, (One Little Indian) - Stereophonics' frontman Kelly Jones lends his unique vocals and a slab of AC/DC styled guitar work for this collaboration. Jones' presence will turn the spotlight on the band who release their debut album next month. But whether they are good enough to stand alone, only time will tell. CL (8/10)

HEDROCK VALEY BEATS: Coming Thru (My Stereo), (Infectious) - Stirring hip hop beats with ladles of pure dancing feet funk. And with more of a tune than before, Headrock are staring to make the right noises. Rumours are, the classic Bellatrix number Jediwannabe is being souped up next with the debut album planned for the end of the year. (7/10) CL

GRANDADDY: Hewletts Daughter (V2) - The latest offering from this lo-fi folk rock band is yet more evidence that they are one of the most under rated acts around. This slow burning track which teases the listener as it gets to the verge of really rocking before pulling back is another classic single from a classic album. 9/10

LENE MARLIN: Unforgivable Sinner (Virgin) - Considering the vast number of young female singers we have plaguing the chart at the moment, it is great to see Norwegian Lene charge in like breath of much needed fresh air. Her first single 'Sitting Down Here' was a huge hit, and the follow-up, a classy ballad won't fail to click with anyone who knows anything about heartbreak and love. (9/10) DH ALBUMS:

THE STIFFS: Volume Control, (Receiver Records) - Live albums seldom recreate the atmosphere of the event, but this classy punk offering proves an exception. Recorded on a hot summer's night in July last year at Blackburn's Cob Wall WMC, it faithfully captures The Stiffs reunion. No fancy studio overdubs here, and outstanding tracks Inside Out, Brookside Riot Squad and Volume Control, all benefit from this. Alan Parker's informative sleeve notes document the band's history. (8/10) DWH

ROBBIE WILLIAMS: Sing When You're Winning (EMI) - After all the hype surrounding Robbie's love life, it is nice to be able to concentrate on the music. The former Take Thater left himself with a lot to do if he wanted to surpass his previous two albums. It looks like he has done with this one, which combines variety, quality and that Robbie-esque style throughout all 12 tracks. 'Rock DJ' is only just the beginning. (9/10) DH

MINISTRY OF SOUND: The Ibiza Annual (MoS) - In the world of dance compilations, the Annual series is the perennial pedigree. Judge Jules and Tall Paul have done the business on this latest album, reflecting Ibiza's new-found diversity and combining tacks from Sonique, Johnny Corporate, Storm, Darude, York, Franchino and Planet Perfecto, to name but a few, seamlessly. The definitive Ibiza album this summer. (9/10) DH