PCD (CD)

Although The Pussycat Dolls have been around for a decade, staying afloat with a constantly revolving lineup, the summer of 2005 will be remembered as their turning point. Propelled by the hit single "Don't Cha," this sexy song-and-dance act went from eye-candy status to credible hit-makers.

PCD, the Dolls' debut disc, is a bouncy, energetic album that has plenty of hooks as well as a few surprises. Wisely enough, it opens with "Don't Cha," which became, arguably, the party song of the summer of '05. This catchy song of desire that won't be acted upon because of a prior commitment is sexy and sassy, an intentional in-your-face backhand that both tempts and resists in the same breath. The track features the rap of Busta Rhymes, but the song is at its best when the Dolls take control of the rhythm.

The catchy and dance-friendly "Wait a Minute" addresses animal attraction that has grown into a relationship, and the results aren't exactly successful. The fire and passion is there, but the respect is notably lacking. With true female empowerment, the Dolls make it clear that the rules are about to change. A guest turn from Timbaland adds to the musical layers and makes this a hip-shaking ear-catching nugget.

Self-sufficiency and female empowerment again take center stage on "I Don't Need a Man," a defiant and free wheeling dance track that serves as a declaration of female independence. She's got her own mind, her own life and her own plans -- and she doesn't need a ring on her finger to make her feel complete.

One of the biggest surprises on PCD is "Right Now," a 1940s-flavored number that has a big-band feel but is thoroughly infused with Pussycat sass. The Dolls show that they can navigate this musical territory with ease, and it might be worth their while to explore this style further, as the results are fascinating.

The Dolls' cover of Soft Cell's "Tainted Love/Where Did Our Love Go" is another pleasant surprise. This completely updated rendition is layered with additional techno rhythms, but the vocals shine through. The classic song about a love that simply isn't working any longer sounds fresh at the hands of these Pussycats, and its nice to hear '80s music back in such a respectable and enjoyable manner.

The disc closes out with "Feelin' Good," a hit for Nina Simone that was recently covered by Michael Buble. The Dolls more than hold their own on this and give the album a smooth, soothing final track.

Although they began more as eye-candy than substance for the ears, PCD shows that The Pussycat Dolls have what it takes to claw their way onto the charts. This disc is fun, playful, sexy -- and bound to make a 'cat lover out of any listener.