What is up with MySQL

So I am having this major issue with MySQL. I have a fresh install of CentOS on my system. I am trying to get MySQL to install and get configured properly so i can test some things like the new versions of Cacti and a couple other things.

For some reason, even though it is a fresh install of MySQL, i am unable to do anything. the minute i try and get into the system i get the wonderful message of
ERROR 1044 (42000): Access denied for user ''@'localhost' to database 'mysql'

This is driving me nuts. I have tried following the steps to force a new password, and nothing seems to work. Can anyone offer any assistance.

I would love to get this up and running so i can get my testing done before everyone comes back to the office next week and things get busy again.

Thanks much

app