Sinead's latest: 'How About I Be Me'

Sinead O'Connor has always leaped headfirst into controversy, so, of course, she kicks off her new album "How About I Be Me (and You Be You)?" (One Little Indian) with a folkie ode to marriage "4th and Vine." Her recent tabloid exploits -- a Las Vegas wedding in December for an on-again, off-again marriage (currently on) and an apparent suicide attempt -- distract from what is a stunning return to form. "Old Lady" reminds us that she still rocks, while the stream-of-consciousness folk of "Queen of Denmark" reveals her sly humor still intact.

SINEAD O'CONNOR

"How About I Be Me (and You Be You)?"

GRADE B+

BOTTOM LINE As alternately thrilling and maddening as she is