Ready for new tunes? This week’s new album releases include collections from Kelly Clarkson, Coldplay AND our first Christmas album from none other than Michael Buble!
The question this week is- who will debut higher? Clarkson or Coldplay?
Kelly Clarkson “Stronger”
This is Clarkson’s FIFTH studio album and was influenced by, as Kelly herself said, Tina Turner, Prince, Sheryl Crow and Radiohead. How’s that for diversity?
Since being the first winner of American Idol, Clarkson has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. Kelly co-wrote five tracks on this new album. She has said in recent interviews that “Stronger” is a better album than her previous four releases because there is no more drama.
“I think it’s because everybody knows each other better,” she said. “Everyone’s on the same team, no one’s fighting with anybody… Also as you get more experience under your belt, now when I walk into a studio, I don’t have to describe what I want to do. Greg [Kurstin- co-writer on the album] didn’t have to guess, he’s seen me live, he’s heard my previous records. When you have something to go off of, it gets easier.”
It was recently announced that Kelly will appear at the upcoming American Music Awards.
Coldplay “Mylo Xyloto”
Is it just me, or doesn’t it seem like this album has already been out for awhile now? I was surprised to read that FINALLY this was the official week of release.
This is Coldplay’s fifth studio album. Lead singer Chris martin has said this new album is definitely a move in the pop direction. I guess the proof is in the tune “Princess of China” that features a duet with Rihanna. It doesn’t get more “pop” than that.
Reviews have been mixed on this release. If you are looking for the strong melodies that were found on the last Coldplay album, you’ll be pleased to learn they return on this new collection of tunes.
Co-producer Brian Eno, who also worked on the 2008’s Grammy-winning “Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends”, returns on “Mylo Xyloto” and has added a bit more “dance” to the Coldplay sound.
One other interesting note about this new release- the political undertones found in previous Coldplay albums are gone from this one.
Incidentally, the album “Mylo Xyloto” is pronounced “my-lo zy-letoe.” We don’t want you to be embarrassed should you go asking for it.
Michael Buble “Christmas”
Here we go with the holiday season of 2011!
Michael Buble said, “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.”
“Christmas” was produced by David Foster, Bob Rock and Humberto Gatica and features guest performances by Shania Twain on “White Christmas” and The Puppini Sisters on “Jingle Bells.” Buble also put his unique take on such classics as “Silent Night,” “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas” and “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.” In addition, a Buble original “Cold December Night” is also featured in this holiday collection.
If you are ready to embrace the upcoming season of overeating, gift giving, lights and ornaments, this might be step one to put you in the mood!
