PATTI SMITH -- Gone Again (Arista)

Longtime fans and new ones alike are sure to be pleased with Smith's latest CD. Gone Again is a compelling new collection of music and poetry from one of music's most important artists, her first in eight years. The title track (also the last song written with her late husband, Fred "Sonic" Smith), is a forceful rocker. "About a Boy" and Smith's cover of Dylan's "Wicked Messenger" are but two of the highlights. Recommended.