File Under: Rock rating: A- tracks 1. You Can't Download Me 2. Rise 3. So Surprised 4. Fly Away 5. Motorbaby 6. I Can't Wait 7. She Said 8. Skin On Skin 9. Pretty Idiot 10. Dear Timothy 11. So High 12. Impulsive 13. Submerged 14. Love Is A Shadow related links Motorbaby

Rise is the second release from the female fronted band, Motorbaby. Being as I had never heard of the band before and knew that the singer was a former model, I wasn't sure what to expect. I am glad to say that I was pleasantly surprised. Not a lot of ballads or sugar coated pop, this girl rocks!

The first song on the album, "You can't download me" starts off with of all things a modem, which works really well in the song, then it goes straight into some great guitar. Lead singer Sharon Middendorf proves right off the bat that she is much more than just a pretty face. As a matter of fact Sharon severed as singer, guitarist and songwriter on this album, writing or co-writing all of the 14 tracks.

"Rise", is the second song and the title track on the album, with subject matter that everyone can relate to. Couples together with one waiting on the other to Rise to the occasion and fulfill his or her expectations.

"So Surprised" is another very strong track on the album. About playing and being played by people and really not caring how everyone else views you for doing it or putting up with it. This entire album is great. I have listened to it many times and enjoy it more than almost anything I have found in a long time. The best way to describe it is an emotional journey set to rock 'n roll.

Rise was five years in the making and has a great amount of talent involved. Guest producers and songwriters include; Toni Visconti (David Bowie, T. Rex), as well as, Kathy Valentine (The Go-Go's), Lez Warner (The Cult), Ron Mancuso (Beggars and Thieves), Eve Nelson (Sandra Bernhart, Heather Nova), and Godfrey Diamond (Lou Reed, Aerosmith).

Pick this album up. You will thank me for it.

Rayanna Barker is a contributing writer. Contact her at rayanna@rockzone.com.