No Doubt continues its platinum success with ROCK STEADY, led by the undeniably adorable Gwen Stefani. Besides being a wonderfully charismatic front woman, Gwen's cute quotient is so high you can't help but like this band. While the group's last release, RETURN OF SATURN was more introspective and had a slightly more pop-oriented approach, STEADY returns the group to their roots sound of reggae and ska, while still mixing in a pop/rock feel. "Hey Baby", the first single, has an irresistible sing-along charm (including a rap by Bounty Killer) that makes it a natural for radio play. "Hella Good", possibly the album's standout track, is a funky, danceable tune reminiscent of peak-era Blondie. Gwen's sweet vocals shine through on the pretty "Running," and "Underneath It All" is a fantastic slow-tempo number that builds with a tight horn section.
An all-star cast of producers helped to make this the fun, polished album it is. Co-producer Ric Ocasek boosts "Don't Let Me Down" with a Cars-like synth hook, and injects "Platinum Blonde Life" with a crunchy guitar riff that also sparks memories of his former band. Other star producers include Prince, Sly & Robbie, and William Orbit. ROCK STEADY's musical mix has a wide appeal, custom-made for bringing in many new fans to the No Doubt fold.
"Underneath It All" won the 2004 Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocal. "Hey Baby" won the 2003 Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocal.
ROCK STEADY was nominated for the 2003 Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album. "Hella Good" was nominated for the 2003 Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording.
Bonus disc includes a music video for "Underneath It All."
No Doubt: Gwen Stefani (vocals, programming); Tom Dumont (guitar, keyboards, programming); Tony Kanal (saxophone, keyboards, bass, programming); Adrian Young (drums).
- Format: Vinyl, 2 LP
- Genre: Pop, Rock, Electronic
- Remember, for our lowest prices, always order directly from our official JocoRecords website!
Track Listing:
1 Intro
2 Hella Good
3 Hey Baby - Bounty Killer, No Doubt
4 Making Out
5 Underneath It All - Lady Saw, No Doubt
6 Detective
7 Don't Let Me Down
8 Start the Fire
9 Running
10 In My Head
11 Platinum Blonde Life
12 Waiting Room
13 Rock Steady
