Cheap Trick Offers Something 'Special'



Veteran rock act Cheap Trick will release its first new studio album since 1997, "Special One," on July 8. The set will be issued through the band's own Cheap Trick Unlimited label in conjunction with a new licensing deal with BIG3 Records. The agreement also includes the rights to the band's albums "Cheap Trick II," "In Color," "Woke Up With a Monster," "Silver," and "Music for Hangovers."

"Special One" features the talents of an array of disparate producers, including Jack Douglas (John Lennon, Aerosmith), Dan "The Automator" Nakamura (Gorillaz, Handsome Boy Modeling School), and admitted Cheap Trick fanatic Steve Albini (Nirvana, Pixies). Tracks include "Scent of a Woman," "Pop Drone," "My Obsession," and "Low Life in High Heels."

"This is probably the most musically diverse record we've ever recorded," frontman Robin Zander said in a statement. "We love all sorts of music and there is a little bit of everything on this record." It's Cheap Trick's first new studio release since 1997's "Cheap Trick II," which debuted at No. 99 on The Billboard 200 and has sold 58,000 copies in the U.S., according to Nielsen SoundScan.

Cheap Trick has a busy touring schedule on tap for the rest of the year. The group plays New York's Beacon Theatre tomorrow (April 24); for a full itinerary, visit its official Web site (www.cheaptrick.com).


-- Jonathan Cohen, N.Y.

My older sister was a huge Cheap Trick fan,so I used to sneak her albums and play them when she wasn't around...


"I'll shine up my old brown shoes,put on a brand new shirt,come home early from work,if you say that you love me...didn't I,didn't I,didn't I see you crying?...


I Want You To Want Me
I Need You To Need Me
I Love You To Love Me
I'd beg you to beg me"