Playback

Notes on recently issued local releases: Fledgling hippies intimidated by long modal jams might favor the Big Creak. The Cleveland/Bowling Green band dabbles in piano runs and guitar noodles by the bar, not the hour. The well-produced CD benefits from sharp playing and Jim Koch's gentle voice, but the Big Creak can't seem to figure out if it's aiming to be a Midwestern Santana or tame enough for Joanie, Chachi, and the Arnold's gang. Pop this sanitized makes the Barenaked Ladies sound like Molly Hatchet. (Contact: www.listen.to/TheBigCreak)

Like the Big Creak, Five Minutes Fast treats the guitar as too happy an instrument. At least FMF doesn't try to present its easy-on-the-ears pop rock as something tougher than it is, à la Matchbox 20. The first song, "Hole," is the strongest, a Semisonic-style number. The rest of the record, however, lacks its distinction (save the slightly hick "Cow"). FMF would also be wise to shake that hangover from the grunge era, the one-word song title. (Contact: Fivemfast@aol.com)

The late Sarah Turner started the Turner Singers 22 years ago, and her children are carrying on the gospel tradition proudly. No Vacancy is a family affair; eight Turners are listed in the credits. The singing is uplifting and disciplined, and the music ranges from smooth R&B, Prince-style funk, and traditional gospel. Too bad the singers don't have the proper backing: The vocals are diminished by the timid-sounding keyboards and programmed drums, especially on roof-raisers like "The Wait Is Over." The record closes with "It's Supper Time," an excerpt from a hanky-waving sermon by the Rev. A.F. Caver. Best line: "You don't even have to wash your hands. The Holy Ghost gonna wash you when you come to the supper." Amen! (Contact: 216-807-3915; P.O. Box 93591, Cleveland 44101)