Go-Go's

After 17 years of random music projects (and domestic ones), the Go-Go's are making a well-timed comeback with a collection of pretty decent pop-punk tunes. The pop spirit of their early '80s hits remains but the guitars are a tad heavier, thanks in part to Lenny Kravitz axe-man Craig Ross. Other collaborators include Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong ¾ who co-wrote "Unforgiven," one of the best tracks ¾ and the Bangles' Susanna Hoffs. The fun starts to fade as the disc expires, but this is a surprisingly strong album that is refreshingly free of plastic (ahem, Josie and the Pussycats). Yes, they've still got the beat.