By Len Brown
6:00 AM PST, January 24, 2012
American rock bandThe Carsjust released their latest CD,Move Like This, their first to featureRic Ocaseksince their split in 1988. They have since reunited in 2010 and their album combines their blend of New Wave and art rock with power pop to form their latest unique sound.
1 / 180
The Cars - Move Like This (5/10/11)
MarshallofRock.com
American rock band The Cars just released their latest CD, Move Like This, their first to feature Ric Ocasek since their split in 1988. They have since reunited in 2010 and their album combines their blend of New Wave and art rock with power pop to form their latest unique sound.
Booker T. Jones - The Road from Memphis (5/10/11)
BluesPortaal.com
Legendary musician Booker T. Jones has released his latest record, The Road from Memphis, a collective group of instrumentals deep-seated in funk with guest singers at every turn. The album features The Roots, Sharon Jones, Lou Reed and more.
The Lonely Island - Turtleneck & Chain (5/10/11)
Tumblr
Andy Samberg, Jorma Taccone and Akiva Schaffer, aka The Lonely Island, have released their album Turtleneck & Chain, a compilation of their hilarious comedic songs that have found their way on SNL, YouTube, and other outlets. The album features Nicki Minaj, Akon, Justin Timberlake and more.
Raphael Saadiq - Stone Rollin' (5/10/11)
Soulculture.com
Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and record producer (also one-time member of Tony! Toni! Tone!) Raphael Saadiq has released his fourth studio album, Stone Rollin', an ode to classic soul with his own contemporary twist. The album features Yukimi Nagano (Little Dragon), Larry Dunn (Earth, Wind and Fire) and more.
Matthew Morrison - Matthew Morrison (5/10/11)
Coverlandia.com
"Glee" star Matthew Morrison has released his self-titled debut album, a raw and eclectic mix which originally derived from a "Justin Timberlake-meets-Michael Buble kind of feel," according to the singer. The album guest-stars Elton John, Gwyneth Paltrow and more.
New Boyz - Too Cool To Care (5/17/11)
Shotty, Asylum Records
Rap duo New Boyz dropped their sophomore effort, Too Cool To Care, an album that explores their eclectic musical influences. The album features Chris Brown, The Cataracs, Charlie Wilson and more.
Ben Harper - Give Till It's Gone (5/17/11)
Virgin Records
Grammy-winning guitarist Ben Harper releases his 10th studio effort, Give Till It's Gone, his first solo album since his 2006's Diamonds on the Inside record. The album features ex-Beatle Ringo Starr ("Spilling Faith," "Get There from Here) and singer-songwriter Jackson Browne ("Pray That Our Love Sees the Dawn").
Danger Mouse and Daniele Luppi - Rome (5/17/11)
Parlophone
Danger Mouse teams up with Italian composer Daniele Luppi to bring us Rome, their personal spaghetti western soundtrack five years in the making. The album, primarily recorded in Rome's Forum Studio, features Jack White and Norah Jones on vocals as well as original musicians from the Spaghetti Western scores of old.
Moby - Destroyed (5/17/11)
Little Idiot/Mute
Moby's newest electronic endeavor, Destroyed, is a 15-track ode to what he calls "broken down melodic electronic music for empty cities at 2 a.m." A majority of the recordings from the album took place during odd hours of the day due to the artist's insomnia.
Tinie Tempah - Disc-Overy (5/17/11)
Parlophone, DL Records Ltd
UK rapper Tinie Tempah makes his US debut with his album Disc-Overy, a record that's already enjoyed success across the pond. Tinie hopes to continue that trend here in the states with a revised tracklist which includes Wiz Khalifa, Bei Maejor, Ester Dean and a host of others.
Against Me! - Total Clarity (5/24/11)
Fat Wreck Chords
Punk rock band Against Me! released their latest record today, Total Clarity. The album is a collective arrangement of demos and unreleased songs from their 2005 Searching for a Former Clarity recording sessions.
She Wants Revenge - Valleyheart (5/24/11)
Five Seven Music
Music duo She Wants Revenge released their third album, Valleyheart, the latest since their 2007's This Is Forever. Group member Adam Bravin directed the video titled "Take The World," which came out prior to their first single "Must Be The One."
NKOTBSB - NKOTBSB (5/24/11)
Sony Legacy
Boy bands New Kids On The Block and Backstreet Boys have joined forces and along with sharing a summer tour together, they have released their compilation album, NKOTBSB. The album features five hits from each group, a megamix and two new joint recordings, "All In My Head" and Don't Turn Out the Lights."
Stephen Marley - Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life (5/24/11)
Republic
As one of Bob Marley's eldest sons, Stephen Marley is carrying on his father's roots reggae tradition with his second solo album, Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life. The album is garnishing similarities to Bob's Uprising with a combination of culture rhythms and militant sounds with socially conscious lyrics.
Lady Gaga - Born This Way (5/24/11)
Getty Images
Lady Gaga's released her highly anticipated second studio album, Born This Way, a record Gaga describes as more poetic lyrically than her first. "It's really written by the fans," she says. "They really wrote it for me because every night they're funneling so much into me. Born This Way is all about my little monsters and me, mother monster."
My Morning Jacket - Circuital (5/31/11)
ATO Records
Rock band My Morning Jacket brings us their sixth album, Circuital. In an interview with Rolling Stone last September, front man Jim James gave some insight on what they were aiming for on this 10-track album. "We're trying to do everything but the strings live," James said. "There's something old and dirty-sounding about it."
Flogging Molly - Speed of Darkness (5/31/11)
Thirty Tigers
Los Angeles Irish punk band Flogging Molly released their fifth album today, Speed of Darkness. The seven-piece band, who's drawn inspiration from such outfits like The Clash and Johnny Cash, has taken matters into their own hands with this album being the first release on their record label, Borstal Beat Records.
Eddie Vedder - Ukulele Songs (5/31/11)
Monkeywrench Records
Singer-songwriter and Pearl Jam front man Eddie Vedder releases his second solo album entitled Ukulele Songs. The album, which is a collection of songs and covers Vedder performed on ukulele, comes out the same day as his live DVD, Water on the Road.
The Vaccines - What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? (5/31/11)
Columbia Records
English Indie rock band The Vaccines, who have drawn comparisons to The Jesus & Mary Chain and The Ramones, have released their debut album, What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? The album has been out in Europe for some time now and is finally available on this side of the pond.
Death Cab for Cutie - Codes and Keys (5/31/11)
Atlantic Records
Death Cab for Cutie is back with their seventh studio album, Codes and Keys, a record in which band members Ben Gibbard and Nick Harmer went on record saying it would be "a much less guitar-centric album than we've ever made before."
All Time Low - Dirty Work (6/7/11)
Interscope/DGC/Geffen
Punk band All Time Low is back with their fourth full-length studio album, Dirty Work. The band alluded that the name for the album came from their past and present events during an interview MTV interview. Frontman Alex Gaskarth added that there's a lot of dirty work doing what they love, due to the downside of being away from their loved ones amidst the many perks.
Joe Ely - Satisfied At Last (6/7/11)
Redeye Label
Singer/songwriter Joe Ely is showing no signs of slowing down by releasing his latest effort, Satisfied At Last, his 18th album and first studio release in almost four years. With 10 new Ely originals, which includes two pre-released singles that are available on iTunes ("Mockingbird Hill" and "You Can Bet I'm Gone"), the West Texas native brings back his blend country blues rock that his fans have grown to love.
Arctic Monkeys - Suck It and See (6/7/11)
Domino
English indie rock band Arctic Monkeys have released their latest album, Suck it and See, one that the band claims will have a more "vintage" style than their previous records. Band member Matt Helders said that this album will include "some songs a bit more instant, a bit more poppy certainly [more] than Humbug (their 2009 effort) was."
Benny Benassi - Electroman (6/7/11)
Ultra Records
Italian DJ and electro house producer Benny Benassi has released his fifth studio album, Electroman. Mixed with a blend of his signature synths, keys and a few vocal collaborations, including Chris Brown ("Beautiful People), Kelis ("Spaceship") and T-Pain on the title track, Benny seems to be expanding his brand outside of his comfortable club niche.
Frank Sinatra - Ring-A-Ding Ding! (6/7/11)
Warner Bros.
R.I.P. to the legend himself, Francis Albert Sinatra, better known as Frank, as the 50th anniversary of his album, Ring-A-Ding Ding! comes out today. This was the first album the great Frank recorded with the label he started, Reprise Records, with the original idea of making the record without any ballads.
J.Period & Q-Tip - The [Abstract] Best (6/14/11)
Los Angeles-born, Brooklyn-based DJ J.Period and Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest fame have hooked up for their latest mixtape, The [Abstract] Best. The mix includes remixes of classic Q-Tip songs as well as new material from the DJ and A Tribe Called Quest frontman. Guest artists include De La Soul, Dres from Black Sheep and Questlove from The Roots.
Ledisi - Pieces of Me (6/14/11)
Verve Forecast
Soul songstress Ledisi has released her sixth studio album, Pieces of Me, one of her most personal records to date. The New Orleans-born, Oakland-raised singer takes listeners on a journey as she unravels the different layers of herself with songs like "So Into You" (her sensuality), "Hate Me" (her ego) and "Stay Together" (her softer side).
'Cars 2' Soundtrack (6/14/11)
Pixar's 2006 animated hit 'Cars' came with a stellar soundtrack, and the 'Cars 2' Soundtrack doesn't look like it will disappoint this time around either. The 26-track compilation album includes music from Weezer ("You Might Think"), Brad Paisley, Robbie Williams and more.
Ziggy Marley - Wild and Free (6/14/11)
Reggae music obviously runs in the Marley family as Ziggy Marley brings us his new record, Wild and Free. The album, Ziggy's fourth, features Heavy D, his eldest son Daniel and Woody Harrelson, who is on the title track which was previously used in California's Proposition 19 campaign for marijuana legalization.
Owl City - All Things Bright and Beautiful (6/14/11)
Owl City (Adam Young) is back with his third studio effort, All Things Bright and Beautiful. Adam stays true to his Synthpop roots in this one but also branches out to other genres including indie rock, folk, and hip-hop ("Alligator Sky"). Some of the featured appearances include Shawn Chrystopher, LIGHTS, and Breanne Duren.
Simple Plan - Get Your Heart On! (6/21/11)
Atlantic
Canadian pop punk band Simple Plan has just dropped their fourth album, Get Your Heart On!, a record some critics have called "as tuneful as the group's debut." The band worked with a wide array of songwriters such as Claude Kelly, David Hodges, Julian Emery and Weezer's Rivers Cuomo.
Seun Kuti - From Africa With Fury (6/21/11)
Knitting Factory
Son of legendary afrobeat trailblazer Fela Kuti, Seun Kuti brings us his latest album, From Africa With Fury. The album, which was recorded in Rio de Janeiro and finished in London, finds the Nigerian native sounding off on issues at home. "On this album, I really had a vision of speaking my mind, where I am now, how I see things in Africa," says Suen. "Sometimes I strip myself of all that makes me Seun Kuti [and] transcend to a high place where I feel with the common man."
OK Go - 180/365 (6/21/11)
Paracadute Recordings
Chicago rock band OK Go released their latest effort, 180/365 (named after the 180 shows they did in the past year), a 15-track live album which comprises songs from their three previous albums, Ok Go, Oh No and Of the Blue Colour of the Sky. They even enlisted the services of Flaming Lips producer Dave Fridmann to spice things up.
Bon Iver - Bon Iver (6/21/11)
Jagjaguwar
Wisconsin indie folk band Bon Iver (derived from the French term bon hiver, meaning "good winter"), released their self-titled second album today. The 10-track record, according to frontman Justin Vernon, takes a new direction musically. "I brought in a lot of people to change my voice," Vernon explains. "Not my singing voice, but my role as the author of this band, this project. I build the record myself, but I allowed those people to come in and change the scene."
Jill Scott - Light of the Sun (6/21/11)
Blue Babe Records
Soul songstress Jill Scott released her fourth studio album, Light of the Sun. The record, which will be her first released under Warner Bros. Records, is one of her most free-forming to date as Jill admits. "The music came about in a very organic way," says Jill. "I've enjoyed the recording process more than I ever have before."
Big Sean - Finally Famous (6/28/11)
Def Jam
Kanye West protege Big Sean comes with his debut album today, Finally Famous. The Detroit native, who got signed to Kanye's label by showing his skills to the G.O.O.D. Music president (his label) outside a radio station (according to his website), has got some star power in his first go round with features from Kanye himself, Lupe Fiasco, Wiz Khalifa and Pharrell Williams.
Thievery Corporation - Culture of Fear (6/28/11)
Eighteenth St
D.C. based duo Thievery Corporation gives us their sixth studio album, Culture of Fear. The group, known for their electronica sound and conscious quotes, does it again this time around sans their trademark sitar sound and usual French tunes. However their messages of love and strong political opinions over smooth beats are still prevalent in this new effort.
Taking Back Sunday - Taking Back Sunday (6/28/11)
Warner Bros.
Rock group Taking Back Sunday has just dropped their self-titled fifth studio album. It's the band's first record with the Tell All Your Friends (2002 debut album) line-up with returning members John Nolan and Shaun Cooper.
Selena Gomez - When the Sun Goes Down (6/28/11)
Hollywood Records
Selena Gomez released her new album today, When The Sun Goes Down. Her new record, which was originally titled Otherside, includes the lead single (already certified Gold by RIAA), "Who Says."
Beyonce - 4 (6/28/11)
Sony Music
Beyonce gives us her fourth studio album, appropriately titled 4. The R&B star was said to have gained inspiration from such artists like Fela Kuti, Lauryn Hill, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson for the album.
Digitalism - I Love You Dude (7/5/11)
Downtown
German dance punk duo Digitalism released their second studio album, I Love You Dude. The group, who's been compared to Daft Punk, steps up their production considerably (see "2 Hearts") from their last album, Idealism, and even took things a step further with precise vocals to go with their signature sound.
Memory Tapes - Player Piano (7/5/11)
Carpark Records
Former Hail Social frontman Dayve Hawk, also known as Memory Tapes, releases his newest effort, Player Piano. His sophomore album is similar to his first, Seek Magic, packed with dance beats mixed with a little bit of darkness and a touch of tripped-out aspects that any dance fan or instrumental lover can enjoy.
Brian Eno / Rick Holland - Drums Between the Bells (7/5/11)
Warp Records
English musician Brian Eno joins forces with poet Rick Holland to bring us Drums Between the Bells, a collaborative effort that was spawned after their initial meeting in 2003. The album contains compositions the two completed in that eight-year span.
Lloyd - King of Hearts (7/5/11)
Interscope Records
R&B crooner Lloyd drops his fourth studio album, King of Hearts, a record that shows the singer's versatility. With sweet but typical ballads like "Angel," in addition to how he equates love to a puzzle ("Jigsaw"), some could believe he's playing it safe with such cliched concepts. But with his smooth yet energetic delivery, coupled with tracks produced by Polow Da Don and Kanye West, who lent his talents to the song "Dedication to My Ex (Miss That)," this record could possibly be his most complete.
Paul McCartney - Driving Rain (7/5/11)
Capitol
Sir Paul McCartney is re-releasing his twelfth studio album, Driving Rain. This album was the first since he announced his relationship with ex-wife Heather Mills. Much of the songs on the album were dedicated to the former model.
Mellowhype - Blackenedwhite (7/12/11)
Fat Possum
L.A. collective Odd Future (OFWGKTA) has many subgroups within their camp, notably Tyler the Creator and Frank Ocean, but Mellowhype (Hodgy Beats and Left Brain) are showing that they can stand on their own with their latest album, Blackenedwhite. Opposite of the group's dark, edgy content, Hodgy, the rapping-half of the twosome, comes off as a care-free stoner who's enthralled with women and religion (yes, really) while Left Brain provides production that can rival those of today's hip hop elite. Although most aren't too familiar with the duo within the steadily ascending teenage hip hop crew, an album like this can put them on the radar.
Dos - Dos y Dos (7/12/11)
Studio Thunderpants
Punk group Dos, comprised of Mike Watt and Kira Roessler, come witht their fourth album in 24 years, Dos y Dos. With both Mike and Kira together have been slightly overlooked due to their own individual efforts, they share a chemistry that's apparent when listening to their music (see "Uncle Mike") and leads one to think there must me more from these two besides the three other albums they've put out in the last two decades.
Colbie Caillat - All of You (7/12/11)
Universal Republic
She has one of her Grammys thanks to her duet with Jason Mraz ("Lucky") and has made herself known with songs like "I'm Yours" and "Fallin' For You," now Colbie Caillat has released her third album, All Of You. The album, which still holds that familiar pleasant vibe with songs like "Brighter Than The Sun" and "Dream Life," but adds a new element with "Favorite Song," a song which includes actor/hip hop artist Common and Ryan Tedder, who produced the track.
Brian McKnight - Just Me (7/12/11)
Entertainment One Music
R&B crooner Brian McKnight serves up his latest effort, Just Me, a 22-song double disc that includes 10 unreleased songs from his archives. After dabbling with radio and television hosting, Brian comes back with a complimentary mix of studio tracks and a live acoustic set he recorded at the Avalon in Los Angeles earlier this year. With his focus back to music, expect to hear more from one of R&B's most talented singers in the future.
Incubus - If Not Now, When? (7/12/11)
Epic
Incubus comes back with their seventh studio album, If Not Now, When?, a title tailor made for their latest effort given the lengthy hiatus between this and their last album Light Grenades (2006). While the group admittedly used that time to focus on more personal endeavors, like guitarist Michael Einziger taking college courses or drummer Jose Pasillas becoming a father, they've seemingly taken the path most bands embark on when growing within this business. This album does take a noticeable turn into a more "mature" direction, but they still have plenty of mileage to show fans their range hasn't completely left.
Pictureplane - Thee Physical (7/19/11)
Electronic music's Travis Egedy, otherwise known as Pictureplane, releases his seventh album, Thee Physical, a record that brings his same electro feel in addition to attempting to dabble in the mainstream market with songs like "Real Is a Feeling" and "Post Physical."
Sole - Hello Cruel World (7/19/11)
Alternative hip hop artist Sole hooks up with instrumental hip hop band Skyrider to bring their newest effort, Hello Cruel World. The 13-track album includes guest appearances from artists like Lil B and Pictureplane.
Theophilus London - Timez Are Weird These Days (7/19/11)
NYC-based rapper Theophilus London has been gaining momentum after releasing a series of well-received mixtapes, including the Lover's Holiday EP, which helped him land a spot on The Late Show with David Letterman earlier in 2011. Now, the eclectic wordsmith has his new album out, Timez Are Weird These Days, a record that shows his range, from dope dance tracks to thoughtful introspective songs.
DJ Khaled - We the Best Forever (7/19/11)
Hip hop DJ, producer and record label executive DJ Khaled is back with a fifth compilation album, We The Best Forever, which features an all-star lineup of hip hop and rap acts, including Lil Wayne, Drake, Chris Brown, Mary J. Blige and more. It also includes the hit summer smash, "I'm On One."
311 - Universal Pulse (7/19/11)
ATO Records
311 releases their 10th album, Universal Pulse, a record which was produced by Bob Rock, the man behind their previous Uplifter and who has contributed for other notable acts like Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Motley Crue and more. The new album, which features the single "Sunset In July," sounds reminiscent of their live sound as opposed to the ballads and lighter material they've done.
Vanessa Carlton - Rabbits on the Run (7/26/11)
Singer Vanessa Carlton releases her fourth album, Rabbits on the Run, a record that's both unpredictable and consistent. Carlton collaborated with other musicians, including drummer Patrick Hallahan from My Morning Jacket and guitarist Ari Ingber of the Upwelling, all while retaining her melodic sensibility and heartfelt lyrics.
Wu-Tang Clan - Legendary Weapons (7/26/11)
Entertainment One Music
The Wu-Tang Clan have been around for about two decades and have released their 2011 effort, Legendary Weapons. The album features Ghostface Killah, arguably one of their more prominent members, on eight of the album's 11 tracks and is packed with the same gritty style we've come to expect from the hip hop collective.
Kelly Rowland - Here I Am (7/26/11)
Destiny's Child alum Kelly Rowland is still growing strong after going solo, and her third studio album Here I Am is a testament to that. The album contains the hit single "Motivation," which has become the highest charted single in her solo career.
Little Dragon - Ritual Union (7/26/11)
Swedish band Little Dragon releases their third effort today entitled Ritual Union. Known for their distinct and alluring style, with touches of R&B and electronica, the 11-track album is sure to not disappoint even the most ambivalent fan.
Joss Stone - LP1 (7/26/11)
Joss Stone released LP1, the first album off of her label Stone'd Records. The Grammy winner, who Smokey Robinson famously calls "Aretha Joplin," co-wrote and co-produced the album with producer Dave Stewart in Nashville, Tennessee.
Arcade Fire - The Suburbs (Deluxe Edition) (8/2/11)
Merge Records
Arcade Fire made a splash at the 2011 Grammys, winning album of the year for their last album The Suburbs. To commemorate, the indie band from Montreal is reissuing a deluxe anniversary CD/DVD of their award-winning effort which contains two new tracks, an extended version of the song "Wasted Hours" and a DVD of the Spike Jonze film, 'Scenes from the Suburbs,' with companion documentary, 'Behind the Scenes from the Suburbs.'
Ximena Sarinana - Ximena Sarinana (8/2/11)
Warner Music
Ximena Sarinana has been the beneficiary of critical acclaim since she released her debut solo album, Mediocre, in 2008, even garnering comparisons to Norah Jones. Now, the Mexican vocalist has released her self-titled English debut album, a record that showcases the 25-year-old's commanding voice, maturity and thoughtful-yet-witty lyrics.
Trace Adkins - Proud To Be Here (8/2/11)
Show Dog Nashville
It's clear that this isn't Trace Adkins' first rodeo as he unleashes his 10th studio album, Proud to be Here. Even though Trace has had his hands in virtually everything from writing to acting, the country star hasn't abandoned his music with his latest 10-track effort which includes the single, "Just Fishin'."
Mat Kearney - Young Love (8/2/11)
Universal Republic
Nashville singer/songwriter Mat Kearny, originally from Eugene, Oregon, has put out his fourth album today entitled Young Love. No telling if his latest project will be featured in any TV shows, as most of his previous songs have, but it includes his digital downloadable single "Hey Mama."
Greyson Chance - Hold On 'Til The Night (8/2/11)
Geffen Records
Greyson Chance, the young phenom who was brought to us by way of a Lady Gaga cover, has released his debut album, Hold On Til The Night. The 13-year-old singer, who's been signed to Ellen Degeneres' eleveneleven imprint, became a star after his rendition went viral and it's safe to assume that the sky's the limit for this young talent.
Barenaked Ladies - Snacktime! (8/9/11)
Desperation Records
Multi-platinum rock group Barenaked Ladies reissued their 2008 effort, Snacktime, a 24-song assortment of children's songs released through their Desperation Records. imprint. Band member Ed Robertson explained the reason for their against-the-grain album, stating, "Our collective kids now outnumber the band more than 2 to 1." As the group navigates their way through family life, this record is for the kid's enjoyment. "Not strictly a children's record, but a record that children would really enjoy," Robertson admitted. "Making the focus about what our kids like was a truly liberating process and fun for the whole band."
Army Navy - The Last Place (8/9/11)
The Fever Zone
Los Angeles indie outfit Army Navy drops their sophomore full length album, The Last Place. After their 2008 effort, which garnered acclaim from Pitchfork, Spin and Rolling Stone, band members Justin Kennedy, Louie Schultz and Doug Randall hit the studio with a newfound resurgence, looking "for something pure" sound-wise, according to producer Adam Lasus.
Royce Da 5'9" - Success Is Certain (8/9/11)
Gracie Productions
Detroit MC and Eminem cohort Royce Da 5'9" has released his fifth album, Success Is Certain. After releasing his collaborative album with Em, dubbed Hell: The Sequel, Royce is banking on that momentum to propel him to the likes of his fellow Detroit rap star. The album features appearances from Em, Joe Budden, Travis Barker and many more.
The Horrors - Skying (8/9/11)
XL Recordings
Southern England band The Horrors presents their third studio album, Skying. After their critically acclaimed sophomore album, Primary Colours (which was produced by Portishead's Geoff Barrow), the group hopes to capture the same essence that was present in their last effort which helped them gain a bigger fan base and tour with groups like The Kills and Nine Inch Nails.
The Throne - Watch The Throne (8/9/11)
Def Jam
Arguably two of today's biggest names in hip hop have combined forces to work on a full album as Jay-Z and Kanye West, otherwise known as The Throne, release their highly anticipated album, Watch the Throne. The 12-track album is a commemoration of sorts, complete with witty yet bragadocious lyrics about their lifestyle. The duo does step away from the bravado in songs like A New Day, proving that their chemistry goes beyond their brand of luxury rap.
Sly Stone - I'm Back! Family and Friends (8/16/11)
Sly Stone, frontman for the well known R&B/Soul group Sly & The Family Stone, is back on the scene after more than two decades to inject some modern life into the classic Family Stone catalog. Entitled I'm Back! Family and Friends, the 14-track effort contains revamped versions of hits like Family Affair, Dance to the Music and Thank You.
Mister Heavenly - Out of Love (8/16/11)
Indie rock group Mister Heavenly dropped their first album today, titled Out of Love. The trio, which consists of Nick Thornburn (Islands/Unicorns), Ryan Kattner (Man Man) and Joe Plummer (Modest Mouse), brings their unique 50s-esque sound to this 12-track effort. The group even had the pleasure of adding actor Michael Cera as their touring bassist when touring in 2010.
Gregory Isaacs - We Remember Gregory Isaacs (8/16/11)
Famed reggae musician Gregory Isaacs sadly passed away last fall, but to keep his memory alive, producer and saxophonist Dean Fraser brought together an international cast of vocalists for We Remember Gregory Isaacs. The two-disc album contains a collection of Isaac's hits and lesser known songs as well as a disc full of instrumental versions performed by Fraser.
The Cool Kids - When Fish Ride Bicycles (8/16/11)
After a slew of mixtapes, Chicago-based rap duo The Cool Kids have finally released their debut studio album, When Fish Ride Bicycles. The 14-track LP boasts a host of collaborations, including Travis Barker, Bun B, Ghostface Killah, Mayer Hawthorne and Asher Roth, while Pharrell Williams pops in as a producer on Summer Jam.
Jeff Bridges - Jeff Bridges (8/16/11)
Before making it as an Oscar winning actor, Jeff Bridges was, first and foremost, a musician and songwriter. He showed the world those musical gift in 2009's Crazy Heart, and his self-titled album essentially picks up where the movie left off as he re-teams with producer T-Bone Burnett to bring more fresh songs with sincere lyrics and vocals.
Game - The R.E.D. Album (8/23/11)
West Coast rapper Game comes back with his latest record, The R.E.D. Album. His fourth studio album includes the single Pot Of Gold featuring Chris Brown and is shaping up to be his most complete record since his 2005 debut, The Documentary.
Sonic Youth - Hits Are For Squares (8/23/11)
Universal Music
NYC-based alternative rock band Sonic Youth are releasing their compilation album, Hits Are For Squares. The album, now available everywhere after only being originally released through limited outlets, contains a collection of songs the group's career curated by various artists, actors, directors and musicians whose style is comparable to the iconic band. Some of those same artists that were specifically chosen by Sonic Youth include Radiohead, Beck, Gus Van Sant, Catherine Keener, The Flaming Lips and more.
Darondo - Listen To My Song: The Music City Sessions (8/23/11)
Berkeley, California's own William Daron Pulliam, better known as Darondo, brings us his latest CD, Listen To My Song: The Music City Sessions. The album features two of his most popular tracks -- Didn't I and Listen to My Song -- and also includes eight previously unreleased songs from the soul singer's long-lost studio sessions in the '70s.
Dave Stewart - The Blackbird Diaries (8/23/11)
Singer/songwriter/producer Dave Stewart releases his first solo album, The Blackbird Diaries. The co-founder of the Eurythmics, and now member of rock supergroup SuperHeavy, presents some new material in over a decade with his latest offering and includes co-writes from the likes of Bob Dylan and features from Stevie Nicks, Martina McBride, Colbie Caillat and The Secret Sisters.
Barbra Streisand - What Matters Most (8/23/11)
Sony Music
Academy Award and Grammy-winning artist Barbra Streisand brings us her 33rd studio album, What Matters Most. The album, which includes lyrics exclusively written by frequent collaborators Alan and Marilyn Bergman, was personally produced by Streisand herself and comprises of 10 Bergman songs that she never previously recorded. "When we write a song, we hear Barbra," Alan and Marilyn Bergman said. "She makes the connection from the heart to the mind, and it emerges through her voice."
Lil Wayne - Tha Carter IV (8/29/11)
Cash Money
Lil Wayne is back with Tha Carter IV, his anticipated follow-up to his Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum album, The Carter III. The famed rapper is hoping to ride that same wave of success this time around, having already put out three #1 singles, John, 6 Foot, 7 Foot and How To Love.
David Guetta - Nothing But the Beat (8/30/11)
Capitol
French house music DJ and producer David Guetta brings his fifth studio album titled Nothing But the Beat. Following his prior trends, he's enlisted a star-studded guest list for the album, including Nicki Minaj, will.i.am, Jennifer Hudson, Sia, Timbaland, Usher and others.
Thundercat - The Golden Age of Apocalypse (8/30/11)
Brainfeeder
Bassist/vocalist Stephen "Thundercat" Bruner drops his debut album, The Golden Age of Apocalypse. Producer Flying Lotus perfectly illustrates the sonic landscape on the album that could be put in an experimental jazz-fusion genre if there was one. The 13-track album certainly brings a futuristic soul sound that has to be heard to get the grasp of the simple complexity of it all.
Red Hot Chili Peppers - I'm With You (8/30/11)
Warner Bros.
Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers released their 10th studio album, I'm With You. Getting production help from the legendary Rick Rubin, the California-based band is back and ready to add to their legacy after their 2006 two-disc effort, Stadium Arcadium, coming with songs like the album's first single, The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie.
Lenny Kravitz - Black and White America (8/30/11)
Roadrunner Records
Lenny Kravitz brings us his ninth record, Black and White America, an album that was written in reaction to a documentary Kravitz watched regarding racism in the U.S. post-Obama. The rocker references his family and his parents' experiences as an interracial couple during the '60s with an adequate amount of funk and rock sounds to portray the overall emotion of his new album; faith, hope and optimism.
Various Artists - Listen to Me: Buddy Holly (9/6/11)
Verve Forecast
In honor of Buddy Holly's 75th birthday celebration, label Verve Forecast releases Listen to Me: Buddy Holly, a collection of artists performing Holly's hits with their own twist. The album, produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Peter Asher, features appearances from Ringo Starr, Stevie Nicks, The Fray, Chris Isaak and many more.
Asa - Beautiful Imperfection (9/6/11)
Nigerian/French singer-songwriter Asa (which means "Hawk" in Yoruba) releases her second album, Beautiful Imperfection. Following up on her self-titled debut in 2007, Asa exhibits her rhythmic range as a singer as well as her evolved sound, assembling together 60's soul, pop, reggae, rock and other genres into the mix.
Lindsey Buckingham - Seeds We Sow (9/6/11)
Legendary Fleetwood Mac songwriter and guitarist Lindsey Buckingham gives us his sixth solo album, Seeds We Sow. This is the first album the rocker will self-release and showcases his wide range of talents, from the pop/rock hybrid song End of Time to arguably the album's best track, One Take.
The Rapture - In The Grace Of Your Love (9/6/11)
NYC-based band The Rapture releases their long-awaited third album, In The Grace Of Your Love. The album, this first since returning to their original label DFA Records, illustrates the band's varying lyrical content over synthesized instrumentals in this 11-track offering.
Hugh Laurie - Let Them Talk (9/6/11)
Warner Bros.
House star Hugh Laurie is ready to show the world he can do more than act with the release of his debut album, Let Them Talk. The album, which was produced by Joe Henry and recorded in Los Angeles and New Orleans, shows Laurie's re-creation of lost blues classics from NOLA legends like Lead Belly, Robert Johnson Ray Charles and Memphis Slim.
Alice Cooper - Welcome 2 My Nightmare (9/13/11)
Universal Music
Alice Cooper is ready to share more stories from his warped mind with his new record, Welcome 2 My Nightmare. Frequent collaborator Bob Ezrin produced the original in 1975 and Alice comes with more of the same flair as the first. "This is Alice's nightmare 35 years later," explains Alice. "Bob and I created this character and we know how to write for him. I play the part but we're not writing for me, we're writing for Alice. We kept the first 'Nightmare' album very personal to us, on this one we found more humor and we were more open."
Bush - The Sea of Memories (9/13/11)
Entertainment One Music
After their lengthy sabbatical, multi-platinum rock band Bush is back with their first studio album in 10 years, The Sea of Memories. Working with famed producer Bob Rock, the new record is one that has a more alive and fresh feel for longtime Bush fans who've grown accustomed to hits like Glycerine and Comedown.
Toro Y Moi - Freaking Out (9/13/11)
Carpark Records
Producer Chazwick Bundick, better known as Toro Y Moi, brings some fresh new sounds with his EP, Freaking Out. The South Carolina native packs in 20 minutes of some funky, eclectic tunes in his sixth EP that's slightly reminiscent of '80s synth pop.
Kristin Chenoweth - Some Lessons Learned (9/13/11)
Sony Masterworks
Emmy winning actress Kristin Chenoweth continues to show her versatility with her new album, Some Lessons Learned, a tribute to her southern music roots. The Pushing Daisies star opens up about her personal experiences as a woman in her latest album which was produced by renowned producer Bob Ezrin.
Lady Antebellum - Own The Night (9/13/11)
Capitol
Multi-award winning trio Lady Antebellum is following up their successful sophomore album, Need You Now, with their third studio album, Own the Night. The lead single, Just A Kiss, has become an instant hit but singer Hillary Scott lets listeners in on the meaning behind their third effort. "One of our favorite songs on the new record is called We Owned The Night, which is about a special once-in-a-lifetime moment, and we thought that naming the album around that same sentiment was really appropriate," says Hillary Scott.
Superheavy - Superheavy (9/20/11)
Republic
Mick Jagger, Dave Stewart, Joss Stone, A.R.Rahman and Damian Marley make up Superheavy and the supergroup has unleashed their self-titled debut album. The eclectic line up, who share 11 Grammys between them, has been working tirelessly on the new project, with the song Miracle Worker being the first single.
Tony Bennett - The Duets II (9/20/11)
Sony Music
Legendary singer Tony Bennett follows up his 2006 multi-platinum album Duets with Duets II. The singer has collaborated with some of music's most talented artists including Lady Gaga, Amy Winehouse, Norah Jones, Michael Buble, Aretha Franklin and many more.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt - HitRECord REColletion Vol. 1 (9/20/11)
Joseph Gordon-Levitt and his collaborative production company, hitRECord, released HitRECord REColletion Vol. 1. The CD/DVD/book trio contains 36 short films, a 64-page and a CD which contains 17 songs, hosted by DJ RegularJoe (Joseph's musical moniker).
Gavin DeGraw - Sweeter (9/20/11)
RCA
Singer/songwriter Gavin DeGraw has gone through some trials and tribulations with his unfortunate assault in NYC, but he's recovered and has released his new album, Sweeter. The album, which was supposed to be released on August 9, contains 10 tracks including the single, Not Over You.
Demi Lovato - Unbroken (9/20/11)
Pop star Demi Lovato comes back to music with her third album, Unbroken. The CD's first single, Skyscraper, has enjoyed huge success since being released in the summer, and it also includes guests like Timbaland, Missy Elliot, Iyaz and Jason Derulo.
Jason Derulo - Future History (9/27/11)
Warner Bros.
Pop star Jason Derulo debuts his sophomore effort, Future History. The Miami-born singer hopes to build on the success of his first album by moving steadily away from the sexy urban songs to more poppy love ballads, all while keeping his signature sound.
J. Cole - Cole World: The Sideline Story (9/27/11)
Columbia Records
Jay-Z's mentee J. Cole released his 2011 debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story, today. After receiving a strong fan following and putting out a slew of mixtapes, the rapper is set to take his music career to the next level. Being signed to Jay-Z's label and having him as a featured artist on the debut doesn't hurt either.
Phonte - Charity Starts At Home (9/27/11)
Phonte, one-half of hip hop group Little Brother and neo-soul outfit The Foreign Exchange, dropped his long awaited solo album, Charity Starts at Home. The 12 track album features appearances from artists like Elzhi, Big K.R.I.T., Evidence and more.
Blink-182 - Neighborhoods (9/27/11)
Interscope Records
Blink-182 brings us their first album in eight years, entitled Neighborhoods. Their self-produced effort showcases each band member's point of view and bassist/singer Mark Hoppus elaborated more on the concept. "We each bring a very different aesthetic, talent and sound to the band. And in the differences between our ideas, the struggle and edge of all the different directions, is where the good things happen when we write together," Hoppus said. "So we're each like different neighborhoods in a city. The world is wide, exciting and very different. That's what Neighborhoods means to me."
LeAnn Rimes - Lady and Gentleman (9/27/11)
LeAnn Rimes delivers her latest album, Lady & Gentlemen. The album, which she co-produced along with Vince Gill and Darrell Brown, introduces a creative concept. "This album was born out of the memories of when I first fell in love with country music and in reflecting," LeAnn said. "I realized that almost all of my favorite country songs from back then were sung by men. I am honored to take a step back in time and sing these songs from a woman's perspective and hopefully help reintroduce them to a new audience."
Styles P - Master of Ceremonies (10/4/11)
Bad Boy
Styles P, one-third of rap group The Lox, drops his fourth solo LP entitled Master of Ceremonies. The gritty rapper from Yonkers brings more of his street wit this time around with singles like It's Ok with Jadakiss and Harsh with Rick Ross and Busta Rhymes featured on the album.
Hayley Westenra - Paradiso (10/4/11)
24-year-old prodigy Hayley Westenra brings to us her fifth album entitled Paradiso. The New Zealand-born soprano, who has worked with the likes of Jose Carreras to Andrea Bocelli to name a few, showcases her astonishing voice as she works with another influential composer and conductor, Ennio Morricone, in her latest offering.
DJ Shadow - The Less You Know The Better (10/4/11)
Verve Music
Producer, songwriter DJ Shadow drops his fourth effort, The Less You Know The Better. The DJ known for helping usher instrumental hip hop into the music scene features more of his signature sampling techniques he made popular thanks to his debut album Endtroducing.....
Feist - Metals (10/4/11)
Leslie Feist, better known by her surname, caught the music world's attention with her 2007 breakout album The Reminder and brings to us the follow-up, Metals. The album, which was primarily recorded in Big Sur, California, has a surprisingly intimate feel despite the catchy pop tunes that lie within.
Scotty McCreery - Clear As Day (10/4/11)
Country artist and American Idol winner Soctty McCreery releases his highly-anticipated debut album, Clear As Day. The young country crooner has been well-received by the community since his big win, a fact that has been solidified upon the news of the best writers in country music lending their talents to the young artist. "We've been working hard on this album not only in Nashville, but in studios across the country because I've been on the Idol tour," McCreery said. "We're putting what I believe are the best songs we could find on it and I really hope everyone likes it. The whole experience has been amazing! I love working with my album producer, Mark Bright, and have gotten to work with some of the best musicians in Nashville!"
Evanescence - Evanescence (10/11/11)
Rockers Evanescence released their self-titled album, the group's third to date. Their 2003 debut album, Fallen, went on to sell 17 million copies and with phenomenal frontwoman Amy Lee, they hope to follow in that record's footsteps.
Johnny Gill - Still Winning (10/11/11)
New Edition alum Johnny Gill is showing that he's still got it with his latest album, Still Winning. The soulful crooner adds to his musical legacy with this new offering, which features the single, In The Mood.
Mayer Hawthorne - How Do You Do (10/11/11)
Republic
Singer Mayer Hawthorne is proving that the retro soul tag is not a trend with his first major label debut, How Do You Do. The Los Angeles-based crooner (by way of Ann Arbor, Michigan) drew much of his inspiration from such singers as Smokey Robinson, Isaac Hayes and Michael McDonald to name a few and his unique style in combination with those influences definitely shines throughout the record.
Bjork - Biophilia (10/11/11)
Icelandic composer and performer Bjork releases her latest album, Biophilia, arguably the singer's most ambitious project to date. The title refers to a love of all living things while the singer explained to the New York Times what she was trying to accomplish with her latest effort. "What I always wanted to do was to reconnect musicology with nature," Bjork said. "I always wanted to make bass lines behave like gravity."
Joe Jonas - Fastlife (10/11/11)
Hollywood Records
Former Jonas Brothers member Joe Jonas has moved on to other endeavors, with Fastlife being his first musical offering as a solo artist. The "liberating" (as Joe called it) process to put out his own music was deemed a challenge by the Disney star but with assistance from Timbaland prodigy Danja, producer Brian Kennedy and even Chris Brown (who co-wrote the lead single See No More), Joe's 11-track effort is sure to not disappoint.
Etta James - Heart & Soul: A Retrospective (10/18/11)
The legendary Etta James, arguably one of music’s most accomplished women, has released Heart & Soul: A Retrospective. This four-disc set is the first complete, extensive overview of her career, with songs spanning from 1955 to 2008. It includes her hits At Last, A Sunday Kind of Love and many more.
Lalah Hathaway - Where It All Begins (10/18/11)
Lalah Hathaway releases her sixth album, Where It All Begins. The album is a follow up to her successful 2008 effort, Self Portrait, and contains several up-tempo songs that will surely make its way into the nearest nightclub and airwaves.
Chris Isaak - Beyond the Sun (10/18/11)
Singer/actor Chris Isaak brings us his latest, Beyond the Sun, his Vanguard Records debut. This album pays homage to Memphis’ Sun Studio and the artists who started off there - Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and Jerry Lee Lewis.
Jane's Addiction - The Great Escape Artist (10/18/11)
Capitol
Alt-rock favorites Jane’s Addiction released their fourth album, The Great Escape Artist. The band, who are revered for their genre-defying songs and have inspired such other acts like Nirvana and Nine Inch Nails, bring a deluxe two CD edition that also includes a bonus live album with 11 fan favorite gems.
Joe - The Good, The Bad, The Sexy (10/18/11)
R&B crooner Joe is back with a contemporary effort, The Good, The Bad, The Sexy. With this album, his third under indie label Kedar Entertainment, Joe is out to prove he’s still at the forefront of R&B music.
Michael Buble - Christmas (10/25/11)
Multi Grammy Award winning singer Michael Buble is giving an early holiday present to fans entitled Christmas. The album, which features guests like Shania Twain and The Puppini Sisters, is one that the crooner has wanted to put out for some time. "Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year for me and my family so naturally it's been a dream of mine to make the "ultimate" Christmas record," Buble said.
Kelly Clarkson - Stronger (10/25/11)
RCA
Kelly Clarkson, American Idol's first winner, returns with her fifth album, Stronger. The album, which was influenced by Tina Turner, Sheryl Crow, Prince and Radiohead according to Clarkson, has her signature presence all over it. The singer also co-wrote five tracks on the record, a process she claims is therapeutic.
Coldplay - Mylo Xyloto (10/25/11)
Parlophone
British alternative band Coldplay is back with their highly anticipated fifth album, Mylo Xyloto (pronounced my-lo zy-letoe). Their follow-up to 2008's Viva La Vida was produced by Markus Dravs, Daniel Green and Rik Simpson and contains the singles Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall and Paradise.
Goapele - Break of Dawn (10/25/11)
Bay area soul singer Goapele (pronounced gwa-puh-LA) comes to us with her latest effort entitled Break of Dawn. Her latest record, which features production from Kanye West, Dan Electric and more, loses many R&B cliches and will take on a roller coaster ride that you won't soon forget.
Boyz II Men - Twenty (10/25/11)
Boyz II Men, arguably the best R&B group of all time, is showing they got some left in the tank as they release their latest album, Twenty. The record, which contains their first new material in almost a decade, was named appropriately after the amount of years they've been in the business.
M.E.D. - Classic (11/1/11)
West Coast emcee M.E.D. (previously known as Medaphor) has worked with some of underground hip hop's best and now has releases his sophomore effort, Classic. Along with linking up with other artists like Aloe Blacc, Talib Kweli and others, M.E.D. also gives his take on the meaning behind the record's name. "I called the LP Classic because that's the approach I took: create music that has the potential to be played by every generation," the rapper said. "This album deals with current issues, personal and within the community. Good-feeling music will always last and allow hip-hop to grow. Even though I recorded well LP was to do the music that I love to do but at the same time show growth."
Wale - Ambition (11/1/11)
Warner Bros.
D.C. rapper Wale (pronounced Wah-Lay) drops his second studio album, Ambition. The album, which is his first under rapper Rick Ross' Maybach Music imprint, includes guest appearances by Lloyd, Ne-Yo, Big Sean, Miguel, Meek Mill, Kid Cudi, and Jeremih.
Miranda Lambert - Four the Record (11/1/11)
Sony Music
Country singer Miranda Lambert brings her fourth offering, Four The Record. Lambert co-wrote six tracks on the album that includes the first single, Baggage Claim, as well as a duet with husband Blake Shelton titled Better in the Long Run.
Justin Bieber - Under the Mistletoe (11/1/11)
Mercury Records
Teen pop star Justin Bieber brings us his first Christmas album just in time for the holidays, entitled Under the Mistletoe. The record features a mix of tradition Christmas songs along with some new material strictly for the holidays, co-written by the pop star himself.
Florence and The Machine - Ceremonials (11/1/11)
Universal Republic
English singer Florence and her band return with her highly anticipated album, Ceremonials, a follow up to 2009's Lungs. The album, which was recorded with her full band over the summer at Abbey Road's legendary Studio 3, is one that Florence herself felt the need to keep her methods the same. "It's certainly a very different thing this time around: making an album that you know a lot of people are anticipating," Florence said. "I've just tried to do what I would've done anyway. This one is a real attempt to just make exactly the kind of music I want to hear: dramatic and really huge and kind of spooky. I want it more than anything to have an overwhelming effect on the listener: I want it to make people feel something."
Noel Gallagher - Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds (11/8/11)
Mercury Records
Former Oasis member Noel Gallagher brings us his first project since the group's split in 2009 with Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. Gallagher's first solo album, which has already been released in the UK, has been generously received amongst critics and contains the single The Death of You and Me, which has already seen success in 2011.
David Lynch - Crazy Clown Time (11/8/11)
David Lynch, the man who directed such films as Mulholland Drive and Blue Velvet, makes his solo debut as a musician with the album Crazy Clown Time. The album, which contains the buzzed about singles Good Day Today and I Know, has 14 songs, all of which were produced and written by Lynch himself.
Mac Miller - Blue Slide Park (11/8/11)
Pittsburgh rapper Mac Miller has enjoyed success thanks to his mixtapes and now he gives us his first full length debut, Blue Slide Park. Being Rostrum Records' second most notable act only to Wiz Khalifa, the young musician plans to take over the hip hop scene with his inaugural effort, which has already received positive reviews.
Kaskade - Fire & Ice (11/8/11)
Ultra Records
Kaskade, one of the dance world's most prolific DJs, presents his new album, Fire & Ice. The man responsible for many platinum artist's hottest remixes brings his fans 20 adrenaline pumping tracks full of his signature San Francisco house sound.
The Beatles With Tony Sheridan: First Recordings (11/8/11)
A.M.P.A.S.
Legendary rockers The Beatles will have their first recordings available in North America for the first time with the album The Beatles With Tony Sheridan: First Recordings 50th Anniversary Edition. The two disc set, which commemorates the band's first time in a recording studio, also contains a specially-designed book filled with photos from their early days as well as handwritten biographies by each member of the group and more.
The PreZcotts - Gossip (11/15/11)
The PreZcotts, a quartet of sisters from Central California, bring to the world their debut album, Gossip. The budding pop stars, who are all around the ages of 12-17, come with a wide array of influences from different musical genres for their sound, from pop & R&B to hip hop and rock, and are ready to become pop music's next big thing.
Frank Sinatra - Best of the Best (11/15/11)
Capitol
The legendary Frank Sinatra will have his greatest recordings from his time at Capitol Records and his own Reprise Records all in one collection, Sinatra: Best of the Best. The deluxe double-disc offering comes with insightful track notes written by Frank himself and includes hits like You Make Me Feel So Young, Come Fly With Me, Love and Marriage (Married With Children's musical theme) and more.
Glee: The Music, The Christmas Album Volume 2 (11/15/11)
Columbia Records
The Glee cast returns to bring us more fresh takes on Christmas classics with Glee: The Music, The Christmas Album Volume 2. The second volume of holiday songs from the characters of the hilarious sitcom includes a variety of Xmas favorites like Little Drummer Boy, Let It Snow, Santa Baby and more.
Childish Gambino - Camp (11/15/11)
Donald Glover tries his hand at music as the actor, who goes by Childish Gambino, releases his debut album, Camp. The comedian and TV writer, whose clever lyrics about his upbringing and current lifestyle garnered him a cult following, had the internet abuzz with songs like Freaks and Geeks, and has put out two singles from the debut, All The Shine and Bonfire.
Drake - Take Care (11/15/11)
Universal Republic
Actor turned hip hop star Drake has returned with his highly anticipated sophomore album, Take Care. The record, which was originally slated for an October release, features more of the Canadian rapper's winning formula of mixing witty punchlines to go with heartfelt R&B ballads to make for a well rounded album. It already includes two well received singles, Headlines and Make Me Proud, and features collaborations with Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne and more.
Adam Lambert - Beg for Mercy (11/22/11)
Adam Lambert is giving fans an early Christmas gift with his latest offering, Beg for Mercy. The album contains a collection of pre-American Idol recordings the singer and Madonna's guitarist Monte Pittman worked on in studio sessions before he achieved superstardom.
Mary J. Blige - My Life II... The Journey Continues (11/22/11)
Geffen Records
The Queen of R&B is back with a new album as Mary J. Blige brings us My Life II... The Journey Continues, Act 1. Her 10th studio album, which is the official sequel to 1994's My Life, features appearances by Kanye West, Jay-Z, Swizz Beats and many more.
Lady Gaga - Born this Way: The Remix (11/22/11)
Interscope Records
Riding on the wave of Born This Way's success, Lady Gaga brings to us Born this Way: The Remix. The 14-track offering includes remixes from some of today's top acts like Foster the People, The Weeknd, Zedd and more.
Yelawolf - Radioactive (11/22/11)
Eminem protege Yelawolf drops his debut album, Radioactive. The Alabama rapper stays true to his roots in his initial offering in attempts to break away from comparisons to his boss with 15 tracks full of witty lyricism and southern sensibility.
Rihanna - Talk That Talk (11/22/11)
Def Jam
R&B superstar Rihanna gives fans her sixth studio album, Talk That Talk. RiRi's latest album contains more of her unabashed sexuality and has a slew of features, including Jay-Z, Calvin Harris and more.
Trey Songz - Inevitable EP (11/29/11)
Atlantic
Trey Songz is giving fans a sample of what's to come with his latest offering, Inevitable. The EP contains five original songs from the R&B crooner, with lead single What I Be On picking up steam on the urban airwaves.
My Week with Marilyn Soundtrack (11/29/11)
Sony Masterworks
This original soundtrack to the well received 2011 film My Week with Marilyn contains songs from the soundtrack's composer Conrad Pope, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole, Michelle Williams and a host of other nostalgic singers.
Kylie Minogue - Aphrodite Live in London (11/29/11)
Kylie Minogue is going the CD/DVD route like others as she gives us Aphrodite Live in London (Aphrodite: Les Folies). The three disc set (2x CD+DVD) includes music and footage from her performance at London's O2 arena during her acclaimed Aphrodite: Les Folies tour, performing classics like Can't Get You Out Of My Head and newer hits like All The Lovers.
Adele - Live at the Royal Albert Hall (11/29/11)
Columbia Records
Adele has been taking the music world by storm this year and even though she's currently sidelined with a throat ailment, the singer is releasing Live at the Royal Albert Hall. This CD/DVD combo features her performances from her concert on September 22 and even contains special behind-the-scenes footage shot leading up to the concert.
Hot Chelle Rae - Whatever (11/29/11)
RCA
Nashville-based quartet Hot Chelle Rae drops their second studio album, Whatever. Hot off the success of their summer single, Tonight Tonight, the band, whose guitarist is brothers with Glee's Chord Overstreet, is planning on continuing their success with their brand of pop rock.
T-Pain - rEVOLVEr (12/6/11)
RCA
T-Pain releases his 2011 effort, rEVOLVEr. The follow-up to his 2008 platinum-selling album Thr33 Ringz is set to demonstrate the evolution of the rapper turned singer as an artist. "rEVOLVEr is drawn from seven albums' worth of material," T-Pain said. "There are so many different things on this album. I couldn't settle on what I wanted to include, but the final result I think will really hit all of my fans and different audiences."
The Black Keys - El Camino (12/6/11)
Nonesuch
Rock duo The Black Keys bring to us their follow-up album, El Camino. Using their success from their Brothers album, guitarist-singer Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney offer up some more of their unique sound, showing that they're synonymous with fine wine -- they're only getting better over time.
Robin Thicke - Love After War (12/6/11)
Geffen Records
Robin Thicke introduces his latest effort to the masses, Love After War. The crooner's fifth album was written and produced by Thicke himself like his previous works and includes guest appearances by Usher, Maxwell, Faith Evans and Pharrell.
The Roots - Undun (12/6/11)
Def Jam
Hip hop staples The Roots are back with their 13th studio album, Undun. Their latest effort is the band's first conceptual album, telling a tale about a semi-fictional character named Redford Stephens and his path which led to his poetic demise.
Amy Winehouse - Lioness: Hidden Treasures (12/6/11)
Universal Republic
Following her unfortunate passing this year, Amy Winehouse's 2011 posthumous album, Lioness: Hidden Treasures, features previously unreleased tracks, alternate versions of her hits and some new compositions from the late singer.
Adventures of Tintin Soundtrack (12/13/11)
Sony Masterworks
The soundtrack to Steven Spielberg's Adventures of Tintin contains an original score composed by John Williams, who undoubtedly drew inspirations from the cartoon as well as the comics.
We Bought a Zoo Soundtrack (12/13/11)
Columbia Records
The soundtrack for the film We Bought a Zoo contains music from Sigur Ros frontman Jon Thor Birgisson (Jonsi) as per Cameron Crowe's request and features original music composed by Jonsi himself which plays a central part in the film's context.
Anthony Hamilton - Back to Love (12/13/11)
RCA
Grammy Award winning singer Anthony Hamilton delivers his fourth studio album, Back to Love. The funk crooner follows up his Gold-certified effort, The Point of it All, with help from Grammy Award winning producers Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, Salaam Remi and Kelvin Wooten, with the song Woo being the first single.
Snoop Dogg & Wiz Khalifa - Mac & Devin Go to High School (12/13/11)
Atlantic
Rap veteran Snoop Dogg takes rising newcomer Wiz Khalifa under his wing for their collaborative soundtrack, Mac & Devin Go to High School. The 12 track offering shares the title of their upcoming comedy which emulates the iconic duo Cheech & Chong.
Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows Soundtrack (12/13/11)
Oscar winning composer Hans Zimmer handles the score for the Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows soundtrack, the thrilling sequel to Guy Ritchie's 2009 remake of the iconic English sleuth.
Young Jeezy - TM: 103 Hustlerz Ambition (12/20/11)
Def Jam
Rapper Young Jeezy comes with his follow up to his 2008 album The Recession with TM: 103 Hustlerz Ambition. In what could be called Jeezy's most anticipated album yet, the albums also comes with his biographical film Hustlerz Ambition, a gritty chronicle of Jeezy's rise from the streets of Atlanta to international rap star.
Kevin Hearn - Cloud Maintenance (12/20/11)
Celery Music
Barenaked Ladies member Kevin Hearn releases his latest solo effort, Cloud Maintenance. The album, released under Kevin's Celery Music imprint, contains 10 tracks and features an appearance from Garth Hudson of The Band.
The Rum Diary Soundtrack (12/20/11)
Lakehouse
The soundtrack to the film The Rum Diary contains 24 tracks composed by Christopher Young, with contributions from Johnny Depp, Patti Smith and a host of others.
Common - The Dreamer/The Believer (12/20/11)
Warner Bros.
Recording artist/actor Common brings to us his ninth studio album, The Dreamer/The Believer. After a three year hiatus to focus on his acting, Common comes with a hunger that's usually absent amongst veteran rappers, as he shows his conscious side with songs like The Believer and also his street wise persona with Ghetto Dreams and Raw (How You Like It).
Cage The Elephant - Live from the Vic in Chicago (1/3/12)
RCA Records
Bowling, KY based band Cage The Elephant release their first ever live concert film in a CD/DVD combo that includes both audio and video versions from their show.
Chico & Rita Soundtrack (1/3/12)
Legacy Recordings
The soundtrack to the 2011 animated feature, which was composed by Bebo Valdes, includes music by Thelonious Monk, Cole Porter, Dizzy Gillespie and Freddy Cole.
Elvis - Elvis Country [I'm 1000 Years Old] (1/3/12)
Legacy Recordings
Elvis Presley's love for country music is being recognized once again with the remastered version of his 1971 album, Elvis Country. The album features 20 of Presley's country songs, including For The Good Times, Snowbird and more.
SafetySuit - These Times (1/10/12)
Universal Republic
Oklahoma pop/rock band SafetySuit release their sophomore effort, These Times. Working with producers Howard Benson, Espionage (New York-based Norwegian team of Espen Lind and Amund Bjørklund) and OneRepublic's Ryan Tedder, the band looks to build upon their earlier success with a more strikingly melodic sound everyone can love.
The Little Willies - For the Good Times (1/10/12)
EMI
Norah Jones' country side-project, The Little Willies, bring their second album, For the Good Times. The material for the record was taken from the band's live collection and includes some of country music's best-known songs like Dolly Parton's Jolene.
Snow Patrol - Fallen Empires (1/10/12)
Universal Music
Irish rock band Snow Patrol brings their sixth studio album, Fallen Empires, a record that the band hopes to redefine its creativity and ambition. Some of the tracks were recorded in Santa Monica and even features backing vocals from the LA Inner City Mass Gospel choir from Compton, South Central L.A.
Joyful Noise Soundtrack (1/10/12)
Warner Bros.
The musically driven movie Joyful Noise contains music from Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton on original songs written by the country star for the film. It features the songs Not Enough (Love), From Here to the Moon and other music from the cast.
Anthony Green - Beautiful Things (1/17/12)
Photo Finish
Singer Anthony Green introduces his second studio effort, Beautiful Things. The Circa Survive frontman hopes to follow up 2008's Avalon with a more creative sound and enlists help from fellow musicians Ida Maria, Lights and others.
Martina McBride - Hits and More (1/17/12)
RCA
Country star Martina McBride celebrates her success with Hits and More, a collection of four number one's, 10 top five's and two top 10 hits from the Grammy-winning artist's stellar career. The album also includes three new tracks never before heard from McBride.
Kathleen Edwards - Voyageur (1/17/12)
Canadian singer-songwriter Kathleen Edwards brings her fourth studio album, Voyageur. The album, which was produced by Edwards and Justin Vernon (a.k.a. Bon Iver), contains 10 tracks that embody the nomadic spirit, with apt titles like A Soft Place To Land and Sidecar.
Taylor Swift - Speak Now [Deluxe Edition] (1/17/12)
Taylor Swift's latest platinum-selling album, Speak Now, is getting the deluxe treatment as her newest record contains six bonus tracks along with a bonus DVD.
Joe Cocker - Hard Knocks (1/24/12)
Sony Music
Joe Cocker shows his longevity in the music business is unparalleled as the blues singer brings to us his 21st studio album, Hard Knocks. Cocker's latest record contains nine all-new songs plus a cover of the Dixie Chicks' I Hope.
Gangrene - Vodka & Ayahuasca (1/24/12)
Universal Music
Hip hop producer The Alchemist and West Coast rapper Oh No come together again to bring us Vodka & Ayahuasca. The record, which is the follow-up to their first album Gutter Water, brings more of the same style as the first, featuring gritty beats and rhymes from the two left coast mainstays and a slew of revered guest appearances.
Kellie Pickler - 100 Proof (1/24/12)
BNA
Kellie Pickler brings to us her third studio album today, entitled 100 Proof. After making a name for herself with her first two records, Pickler once again shows her growth as an artist and a woman with her new offering, which includes the lead single Tough.
Tim McGraw - Emotional Traffic (1/24/12)
Tim McGraw's highly anticipated album, Emotional Traffic, hits stores today. The record, in which the country star proclaims is his best ever, features the three-week number one single, Felt Good On My Lips as well as Only Human featuring R&B star Ne-Yo.
Pics: ET's New Music Tuesday
Warner Music
Check out some of this week's new music releases that are available today!
Seal looks to put the word 'soul' back into Soul music with his sixth studio album, Soul 2. Following the success of his platinum-selling record Soul, the British singer lends his impeccable voice to such classics as Rose Royce's Wishing On A Star and Bill Withers' Lean On Me.