No Doubt

Tragic Kingdom

Stunning breakthrough

Review Score:

(10/10)
This was the album which made it big for No Doubt, and it deserved to do well. Spawning the hit singles 'Don't Speak', 'Just A Girl' and 'Spiderwebs', the former has entered into modern classic status. It shows a wide variety of musical styles, meaning it appeals across the borders, with Gwen Stefani's vocals simply being out of this world.

No Doubt manage to do what many bands before them have failed to - write contemplative, angry and almost sad songs to punchy rhythms and not sound ridiculous. Each track is quirky and original, with insightful comments of the old topic of relationships gone wrong or vice versa, particularly on standout 'Hey You'. Whilst maintaining their roots, No Doubt have produced a pop record of epic proportions, sounding fresh and original. Although there are several songs here that probably deserve special comment, yet 'Don't Speak' is absolutely outstanding, with yearning vocals that don't pass over into sappiness. However, my favourite track would have to 'Spiderwebs', a success in the very fact that it crosses over with pop and a more alternative stlye. The band's songwriting, vocals and powerfully persuasive image helped 'Tragic Kingdom' to become a roaring success. It's bouncy, fun and different and a definite album to treasure.

If you enjoyed this, chances are you'll also like their other albums, all of which are superb.

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