Review: 'Return of Saturn' by No Doubt

'Return of Saturn,' No Doubt, 2000, Interscope Records. Cover: a bit of a gallimaufry, but it works. Bright pink stars on a deep blue background give the CD itself a futuristic look. Lyrics included. 


Gwen Stefani wrote or co-wrote all of the songs in this album, & the listener can tell how deeply she's exposing herself through her lyrics. The CD begins with the driving beat of 'Ex-Girlfriend' & moves on to the softer, more introspective 'Simple Kind of Life.' 

Themes include Stefani's struggles with identity ('Magic's in the Makeup'), her tumultuous love life (her confidence in 'Bathwater' contrasts nicely with her hesitation to say 'I love you' in 'Artificial Sweetener'), & her desire for marriage ('Marry Me'). 

Gwen Stefani's beautiful voice is accompanied by Tony Kanal on bass guitar, Tom Dumont on guitars, & Adrian Young on drums & percussion. No Doubt's    
signature sound is replete in this CD, especially on 'Ex-Girlfriend,' 'Simple Kind of Life,' & 'Bathwater.' There's a picture of each band member inside, & Gwen Stefani's reflective lyrics, along with the engaging music, guarantee that you'll be singing along. This album is a must for No Doubt fans.