There are some albums that you just simply cannot rate on terms of “music and lyrics.” Some albums can only be scored solely on their ability to get you to score with the opposite sex (or the same sex if that's what floats your boat). For example, take Sarah McLachalan’s 'Fumbling Towards Ecstasy' which was a great way to get laid- just add a little low-lighting (preferably candles) and Chardonnay and you were set! It all boils down to a combination of music, atmosphere, and the perfect drink(s) for the occasion. Examples:

• Techno, strobe lighting and mixed drinks.
• Country Music, no lights, beer and whiskey.

You get the idea.

And then there’s Francis Rodino’s latest alternative rock work, 'Circles & Squares'. Honestly, I found nothing on the music and lyrics end of this collection of songs to meet traditional grading requirements. The music (while sounding a bit computer-orchestrated) is fine. The lyrics? Well, they have meaning, but it’s doubtful they will have any meaning to you. If anything, these lyrics will only mean something to the poor dumb lass who has wound up at your shag-pad late one night and is convinced you mean something by playing this album. But the cold, hard truth of it is that 'Circles & Squares' is just another “get some tail” album that should be placed in the illustrious “just put the damn album on and hope the bitch puts out” category.

Francis Rodino’s Circles & Squares is very so-so. It won’t “wow” you. It may just pass you by completely. But, on the bright side, it will make for some good background music in a department store in about five years. Oh, that, and it’ll probably get you laid, of course. Just turn down the track lighting and break open the cheap white Zinfandel!