More Christmas CDs

A Midwinter Night’s Dream Loreena McKennitt, CD 781.723 MCK 2008 – On her first full-length holiday album, Loreena celebrates the season with a CD that blends the five songs from A Winter Garden (1995) with eight new recordings inspired by seasonal favorites. 13 tracks including ‘The Holly & The Ivy’, ‘Good King Wenceslas’, ‘Seeds Of Love’, ‘Coventry Carol’ and more.

 

NOW Essential Christmas Various Artists, CD 781.723 ESS 2008 – THE ESSENTIAL NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL CHRISTMAS presents 25 of the most beloved holiday favorites from some of the greatest music artists of all-time, all on one CD.

 

 

 

Christmas Duets Elvis Presley, CD 781.723 PRE 2008 – Elvis’ most cherished holiday classics reinterpreted by today’s biggest female stars with Elvis Presley! The album features ‘Blue Christmas’ with Martina McBride, ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’ with Carrie Underwood, ‘Here Comes Santa Claus’ with LeAnn Rimes, ‘Santa Clause Is Back In Town’ with Wynonna Judd ‘Silent Night’ with Sara Evans, ‘White Christmas’ with Amy Grant plus Gretchen Wilson, Karen Fairchild & Kimberly Schlapman of Little Big Town, Anne Murray, Olivia Newton-John and three Bonus Tracks.

 

What A Night! A Christmas Album Harry Connick Jr., CD 781.723 CON 2008 – Holidays with Harry and his 2008 release, What A Night! A Christmas Album. Harry Connick, Jr. is an accomplished singer, pianist, and actor who emerged in the late 1980s as a Sinatra-style crooner for a new generation. As a musician, his influences include Bebop, New Orleans Jazz, and big-band swing. His score for the film When Harry Met Sally brought him national acclaim and an Oscar. He has appeared in many films and he is known for his Pop music as well.

 

And Winter Came Enya, CD 781.723 ENY 2008 -Twenty years after her landmark Watermark album, Enya’s seventh studio disc, And Winter Came continues a phenomenally successful career that has included more than 70 million albums sold worldwide. And Winter Came is an enchanting evocation of the changing landscape of winter as well as the festive cheer of the holidays. One of the most successful female artists of all-time, and second only to U2 as the biggest selling Irish artist in history, Enya brings her beguiling and ethereal music to bear on the darkest and yet most hopeful season with And Winter Came.

 

Playlist Plus: A Very Special Christmas Various Artists, CD 781.723 VER 2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time-Life Music: Treasury of Christmas – Holiday Memories Various Artists,CD 781.723 TIM 2002 -America’s Favorite Christmas Collections. This special edition of The Time-Life Christmas is based on the multi-million-selling collection The Time-Life Treasury of Christmas, as seen on TV. This 2 CD album features your favorite songs, all original recordings, all original artists, and digital mastering for the best sound quality.

New Music CDs – December 2008

Prospekt’s March Coldplay, CD 781.66 COL 2008

Paper Trail T.I., CD 781.649 T. I. 2008

A Twist In My Story Secondhand Serenade, CD 781.66 SEC 2008

808s & Heartbreak Kanye West, CD 781.63 WES 2008

Day & Age The Killers, CD 781.66 KIL 2008

Safe Trip Home Dido, CD 781.66 DID 2008

Hit Man [LIVE]David Foster & Friends, CD 781.63 FOS 2008781.66 TV 2008

Night Ripper Girl Talk, CD 781.66 GIR 2006

Secret Diary Girl Talk, CD 781.66 GIR 2006 leCD 781.66 GIR 2004

Soul Seal, CD 781.66 SEA 2008

That Don’t Make Me a Bad Guy Toby Keith, CD 781.642 KEI 2008

The Greatest Songs Of The EightiesBarry Manilow, CD 781.63 MAN 2008

Brad PaisleyPlayCD 781.642 PAI 2008

Ray LaMontagne Gossip In The GrainCD 781.66 LAM 2008 

New CDs – November 2008

 

Fearless Taylor Swift, CD 781.642 SWI 2008 – “Taylor Swift has defied a lot of conventional wisdom. In the midst of a recording-industry implosion, she sold 3 million physical copies of her 2006 debut. At a time when Nashville is dominated by Stetson-wearing male singers in their 30s and 40s, the 18-year-old emerged as country’s newest superstar with a repertoire full of girly songs aimed at teens. She is a blond, blue-eyed, amazonian starlet who — unlike nearly every other person who fits that description — writes her own songs, plays an instrument, answers to no Svengali and doesn’t rely on high-priced studio ninjas and trendy producers. Britney she ain’t.”–Rolling Stone Magazine (via Amazon)

 

 

The Promise Il Divo, CD 782.42 DIV 2008 – Andrea Bocelli’s new album, Incanto, is a collection of the most famous Italian songs, with the release set to coincide with the famous tenor’s 50th birthday.

 

Dark Horse Nickleback, CD 781.66 NIC 2008 – Nickelback have established themselves as one of the biggest rock bands in the world. With over 26 million albums sold worldwide they have made their mark in rock and roll history. Their new album, ‘Dark Horse’, is one of the most anticipated releases this year. The band brought in legendary producer Mutt Lange to produce the record with Nickelback and longtime collaborator Joey Moi.

 

 

Self-Titled David Cook, CD 781.66 COO 2008 – American Idol winner David Cook is set to release his self-titled debut album on November 18th, 2008. Produced by Grammy winning Rob Cavallo (Green Day, Kid Rock), David Cook is a quality album full with radio hits. Cook co-wrote 9 songs from his debut, along with songwriters like Chris Cornell, Brian Howes & Cathy Dennis. The 1st single “Light On” was co-written by one of rock music’s most influential innovators, Chris Cornell, lead singer and songwriter for Soundgarden and Audioslave, and acclaimed producer / songwriter Brian Howes, who has worked with superstar rock bands such as Hinder and Puddle of Mudd.

Christmas CDs – 2008

It’s not too late to put these Hot Holiday Items on hold!

Click on Titles to order them from the Library Catalog

I’ll Be Home for Christmas Brian McKnight, CD 781.723 MCK 2008 – Christmas cheer runneth over with McKnight’s first true holiday collection featuring all of your favorite Christmas classics and three new McKnight holiday originals – presented in that smokey R&B mold that McKnight does so well; McKnight’s famed vocal prowess will definitely make this the most wonderful time of the year! As an extra special bonus, Josh Groban, Rascal Flatts and Babyface also make guest appearances on the album! McKnight’s visibility will be growing around the holiday season and into 2009. Already a household as a result of his hits, a stint in Chicago on Broadway, and his own radio show (KTWV the Wave /LA, McKnight is also the host of his very own video countdown Soul Sessions with Brian McKnight on BET .

Songs of Joy & Peace Yo-Yo Ma & Friends, CD 781.723 MA 2008 – Imagine a party, a musical party inspired by the holiday season. A party that celebrates the universal hopes, dreams and joy animating seasonal festivals the world over – Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid al-Adha, Kwanzaa, Yule and New Year’s Day. That is what brought Yo-Yo Ma together with a remarkable group of friends – some old, some new – to create SONGS OF JOY & PEACE. It is Yo-Yo’s hope that everyone who listens to this album will hear a song familiar, comfortable and beloved to them as well as discover and fall in love with music that is brand new.

A Swingin’ Christmas Tony Bennett Featuring the Count Basie Big Band, CD 781.723 BEN 2008 -2008 album release Swingin’ Christmas featuring the Count Basie Big Band. Bennett has 15 Grammy Awards along with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2001). ‘Tony Bennett is among the most recognized human beings on the planet.’ ~Vanity Fair. The album tracks are ‘The Christmas Song’, ‘Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas’, ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas, ‘Winter Wonderland’, ‘Santa Claus Is Coming to Town’, ‘Christmas Time is Here’, ‘My Favorite Things’, ‘The Christmas Waltz’, ‘Christmas Auld Lang Syne’, ‘Silver Bells’ and ‘Christmas Tree’.

A New Thought for Christmas Melissa Etheridge, CD 781.723 ETH 2008 -What if someone made a Christmas album for everybody else? That’s exactly what Melissa Etheridge has done. Working alongside her producer David Cole, Melissa’s songs celebrate a spiritual time of year where people can rejoice in their traditional, or non-traditional ways, and celebrate a winter solstice filled with love and peace. This ten song album has newly composed songs such as “Ring The Bells,” “Light A Light,” and “It’s Christmas Time” interspersed with traditional holiday standards such as “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” and “Blue Christmas.” This album begs the question, “If we’re all talking about peace on earth, what if we all concentrated on peace on earth and made it happen?”

It’s Christmas Mandisa, CD 781.723 MAN 2008 – Mandisa’s debut album True Beauty gave inspiration and hope to women everywhere and challenged us to rethink our definition of beauty, and proved she had more than just talent – but something important to say. This fall, she returns with her first full-length Christmas album It’s Christmas. Produced by Brown Bannister (Amy Grant, Steven Curtis Chapman, Jeremy Camp), It’s Christmas strikes a balance between traditional Christmas carols and newer songs, and features special appearances by Michael W. Smith and Matthew West.

Joy to the World Faith Hill, CD 781.723 HIL 2008 – The first holiday album from super-star Faith Hill, ‘Joy To The World’ is a joy to behold, featuring beautiful new versions of ten traditional and modern classics, complete with horns, strings, woodwings, percussion and chorales, much like the big-band orchestras of the 40’s and 50’s. One of the most popular music stars in America, Faith Hill celebrates the joy-and faith- of the season with ‘Joy to the World.’

A Winter Symphony Sarah Brightman, CD 781.723 BRI 2008 – Arrival — Colder than winter — Ave Maria (with Fernando Lima) — Silent night — In the bleak midwinter — I’ve been this way before — Jesu, joy of man’s desiring — Child in a manger — I wish it could be Christmas everyday — Amazing grace — Ave Maria — I believe in Father Christmas.

Don’t Come Home for Christmas Jeff Dunham, CD 781.723 DUN 2008 – YEAR-ROUND FAMILY FUN! CONTAINS INSTANT SING-ALONG CLASSICS (AND A FEW TWISTED ONES)!!!Don’t Come Home For Christmas is the first CD of songs ever released by Jeff Dunham and his beloved group of characters! Tracks include Achmed’s “Jingle Bombs,” Bubba J’s “Roadkill Christmas,” and Walter’s heart-felt “I Hate Christmas.” Join Jeff and “Guitar Guy” along with Peanut, Bubba J, Achmed the Dead Terrorist, Sweet Daddy Dee, José Jalapeño, and Walter as they make Christmas very special – and hilarious – like only they know how.

New CDs – November 2008

A Hundred Million Suns Snow Patrol, CD 781.66 SNO 2008 – The Grammy-nominated band’s fifth studio album was recorded throughout the Summer of 2008 in Hansa Studios in Berlin (where Bowie recorded “Low,” “Heroes” and “Lodger”) and at Grouse Lodge deep in the Irish countryside. Snow Patrol are one of the biggest selling UK bands this decade and A Hundred Million Suns follows up the 2006 Number One, seven-times platinum phenomenon Eyes Open which sold 2.1 million copies in the UK and over 1 million in the US. Eyes Open achieved platinum awards across the world from the US and Canada to Germany, Australia and beyond, selling over 4.5 million copies. Their single “Chasing Cars” has just received its 2 millionth download in the US.

Evolver John Legend, CD 781.643 LEG 2008 – The album Evolver features superstars Kanye West, Andre 3000 and Estelle.The album’s first single ‘Green Light’ impacted Urban & Rhythm formats August 19th, 2008. John Legend’s debut CD Get Lifted & sophomore CD Once John Legend is the winner of five Grammy Awards.

 

Incanto Andrea Bocelli, CD 781.63 BOC 2008 -Andrea Bocelli’s new studio album is a collection of the most famous Italian songs – including Mamma, Funiculi Funicula and Santa Lucia. They are the songs which have enchanted Andrea since childhood. Released to coincide with his 50th birthday, the album is a personal tribute to his musical heritage. Popularized through concert, radio and record and the film industry by the great tenors of the 19th and 20th centuries, this selection of songs is a celebration of the Italian tenor tradition.

 

 

Tina! Tina Turner, CD 781.63 TUR 2008 – Tina! is the 2008 CD to compliment the eight-time Grammy Award winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer’s long-awaited return to arenas throughout North America. Capitol/EMI releases a new 18-track CD and digital collection of Turner’s Top Hits, rare live recordings and two exclusive new tracks. Few rock performers can work a stage and an audience as masterfully as Tina Turner has been doing since the 1960s. First achieving stardom alongside then-husband Ike Turner, R&B siren Tina left to pursue an even more successful solo career that also included movie roles.

Closer – The Best of Sarah McLachlanSarah McLachlan, CD 781.66 MCL 2008 – 2008 Album, Closer: The Best Of Sarah McLachlan contains 24 classic tracks personally selected by the artist from her award-winning catalog, as well as two newly recorded and previously unreleased songs, “U Want Me 2” and “Don’t Give Up On Us”, working with her longtime producer Pierre Marchand.

 

Our Love Is Here to Stay: Ella & Louis Sing Gershwin Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, CD 781.65 GER 1998 – When Ella and Louis recorded a series of albums together for Verve in 1956 and 1957, George Gershwin’s songs were a constant theme, including a double LP of Porgy and Bess that delighted Ira Gershwin. This 1998 compilation pulls together material from those recordings to celebrate a union of jazz’s greatest singers with a songwriter who had been an essential resource for jazz since the 1920s. The chemistry is consistently inspired, with Armstrong’s gravelly voice, perfect rhythmic sense, and still-eloquent trumpet providing a fine complement to Fitzgerald’s consummately smooth delivery and extraordinary range. Also included are Ella and Louis’s own takes on Gershwin from contemporary sessions, including Fitzgerald’s Jazz at the Philharmonic version of “Oh, Lady, Be Good!” (from At the Opera House) that includes Lester Young, Coleman Hawkins, and Stan Getz among the tenor saxophonists. Collectors will want the CD reissues of the original albums to get a complete picture of the Fitzgerald and Armstrong partnership, or Fitzgerald’s own extended encounter with Gershwin in the Songbook series; nevertheless, this is a delightful introduction to an inspired collaboration.

Whatever: The ’90s Pop and Culture Box Various Artists, CD 781.63 WHA 2005 – Remember the 1990s? Dot-com booms and stock market pinnacles? The fall of the Wall, the rise of Desert Storm, Presidential impeachment, and Beavis & Butt-head? The decade of grunge power, alt-rock diversity, and hip-hop evolution? It’s an era that’s oh-so-close, yet already so far away. If you’re pining for those ’90s, and we know you are-our monolithic new 7-disc box takes you back in style.

 

More New Music CDs – October 2008

Click titles/artwork to go to the Library Catalog

 

Little HoneyLucinda Williams, CD 781.642 WIL 2008

Lucinda Williams has always been adept at painting landscapes of the soul, illuminating the spirit’s shadowy nooks and shimmering crannies — but she’s never captured the sun breaking through the clouds as purely as on her new Lost Highway release, Little Honey. The album features a duet with Elvis Costello “Jailhouse Tears” Other guest vocalists include Matthew Sweet, Susanna Hoffs, Jim Lauderdale, Tim Easton and Charlie Louvin.

13th Hour Midnight Syndicate, CD 781.66 MID 2005

Over the past eight years, Midnight Syndicate has defined the gothic/horror soundscape genre and redefined the Halloween music industry. Their unique blend of dark orchestral movie-style instrumental music and carefully crafted sound effects make their “soundtracks for the imagination” truly interactive listening experiences, earning them a diverse worldwide following in the gothic music, Halloween, horror music, haunted attraction, and gaming industries.

Learn to Live Darius Rucker, CD 781.642 RUC 2008

As the front man of Hootie & The Blowfish, Darius Rucker has already experienced success – earning 2 Grammy awards and selling over 25 million albums worldwide. Now, embracing his country roots and a music he has always wanted to make, Darius is attracting the attention of country fans who are discovering his voice for the first time, and rewarding Hootie fans with new music featuring one of the most unique voices across any genre of music. Featuring his debut country single, “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It”, Learn to Live features 12 undeniable country hits and a voice that is unarguably Darius Rucker. “I have always written country songs…for me, this is really just part of the natural evolution of my career. I plan to be doing this for a long time. This isn’t a one album deal – it’s a career thing,” explains Rucker.

Broken China Robert Wright, CD 781.66 WRI 1996

Brand new solo album by the Pink Floyd keyboardist, with Sinead O’Connor appearing as guest lead vocalist on the tracks ‘Reaching For The Rail’ and ‘Breakthrough’. The album has a Floyd sound and look throughout, thanks to their designer Storm Thorgerson.

Some Mad HopeMatt Nathanson, CD 781.63 NAT 2007

With rapturous romanticism and over-the-top, heart-on-sleeve emotion, Matt Nathanson can’t decide whether he wants to be U2’s Bono (particularly on the opening “Car Crash”) or John Mayer (with whom he’s toured as an opening act). Though his roots are in the folk coffeehouse, he plainly has his ears aimed toward the rock arena, as the propulsive “To the Beat of Our Noisy Hearts” and “Detroit Waves” attest. “Wedding Dress” sounds like it’s aspiring to become a first-dance standard, while the sensuality of “Come On Get Higher” suggests more stripped-down delights. A couple of lines here compete for the album’s cheesiest: “C’mon let’s make this dream that’s barely half-awake come true” (from “Heartbreak World”) and “What happened to feeling cheap radio songs?” (from “Bulletproof Weeks”).

Love & Life Eric Benet, CD 781.643 BEN 2008

Eric Benet has recaptured the essence of his roots as he journeyed back to Milwaukee on his fourth solo effort, Love & Life, a strong, good-feeling record reminiscent of yesteryears when R&B was rooted in gospel, a dash of jazz and the feeling of social awareness. This album reflects a journey that magnifies the abundance of familiar experiences both personal and social that transpires, represents sheer honesty, allowing you to discover truth, and be moved and connected by music.

Hello Love Chris Tomlin, CD 781.7 TOM 2008

Following his 2006 RIAA Gold-certified record, See the Morning, Chris Tomlin’s fifth studio release, Hello Love, communicates what he describes as the “need to introduce ourselves to love again.” Produced by Ed Cash (Steven Curtis Chapman, Amy Grant, Bebo Norman), the record endeavors to give voice to the Church to worship their Creator.

Gift of ScrewsLindsey Buckingham, CD 781.66 BUC 2008

Primarily recorded and self-produced at his home studio and on the road during the ‘Under The Skin’ tour, the album also features two songs co-produced by Rob Cavallo (Green Day, My Chemical Romance). Mixing the immediacy of the best of his contributions to Fleetwood Mac with experimental production flourishes, highlights of the set include ‘Bel Air Rain’, ‘Time Precious Time’, ‘Underground, ‘Love Runs Deeper’ and ‘Treason’. “You could certainly say this album is a distillation of a number periods of time, some false starts to make albums, certainly some songs that go back a number of years, that took a while to find a home here, combined with brand-new songs and a whole other outlook,” explains Buckingham. “And the fact that there was a kind of tenacity and focus to want to bring all of this together in one place. The fact that as an artist I’m still, for better or worse, clinging to my idealism and to my sense that there is still yet much to be said. This is a culmination of that.”

That Lonesome Song Jamey Johnson, CD 781.642 JOH 2008

He could be basking in his songwriting accolades, but Jamey Johnson remains a restlessly creative maverick. Jamey is the co-writer of the CMA and ACM 2007 Song of the Year “Give It Away,” recorded by George Strait. Trace Adkins, George Jones and Joe Nichols have also recorded his songs. But instead of sitting at home counting his royalty checks, Jamey Johnson recorded more than 40 songs during the past year. Not content with providing hits for others, the singer-songwriter has a powerful drive to sing, record and perform. “Writing is not enough for me,” says this intense artist. “I did not come here to just be a writer. I live to play….I’m not here to take a stab at it. I am going to DO it.” Following a deep period of isolation and introspection, Jamey Johnson entered the recording studio in April 2007. Within months, Jamey emerged with That Lonesome Song, a collection of extraordinary compositions that is equally noteworthy for its lyrical craftsmanship and its strikingly original sound.

Vivaldi: The Four Seasons Joshua Bell, CD 787.2 BEL 2008

Grammy Award-winning violinist Joshua Bell, who has enchanted audiences for two decades with his breathtaking playing and tone of rare opulence, has recorded Antonio Vivaldi’s concertos The Four Seasons. Widely considered as one of the premiere violinists of his generation, Bell is joined on this studio release by the celebrated musicians of the Academy of St.Martin in the Fields, who toured the work with him prior to the recording sessions. This recording of The Four Seasons is coupled with another masterpiece of Baroque virtuosity, Giuseppe Tartini’s The Devil’s Trill. The liner notes by Linda Kobler explain the curious genesis of Tartini’s piece and the indisputable place of Vivaldi’s concertos in the history of sonata composition.

Act Two Celtic Thunder, CD 781.629 CEL 2008

Celtic Thunder Act Two, the companion to Celtic Thunder (which sold over 150,00 CDs and DVDs combined) musically completes the collection of songs that have been included in one of the most successful PBS programs ever. Celtic Thunder Two includes an eclectic mix of songs ranging from the Moody Blues classic Nights In White Satin, Paul McCartney’s Mull Of Kintyre to the classic Danny Boy. The ensemble numbers on Celtic Thunder Two reflect the power of the vocalists, who range in age from 14 to 40, and feature songs that celebrate a common Celtic heritage.

New Music CDs – October 2008

Click on a title to order a CD from the Library Catalog.

Jennifer Hudson Jennifer Hudson, CD 781.643 HUD 2008

The 2008 self-titled debut album of Jennifer Kate Hudson reflects her high-powered soulful style voice which is transcendent and timeless. Guests features on the album include Fantasia on “I’m His Only Woman”, Ludacris on “Pocketbook”, plus the highlights version of “And I am Telling You I’m Not Going” from Dreamgirls. Jennifer first gained notice as one of the finalists on the third season of the FOX television series American Idol. She went on to star as Effie White in the 2006 motion picture adaptation of the musical Dreamgirls for which she won numerous awards including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a BAFTA and a SAG Award.

 

Year of the Gentleman Ne-yo, CD 781.643 NE 2008

“Closer,” written by Ne-Yo and produced by Stargate, is the first single from Ne-Yo’s upcoming third album, YEAR OF THE GENTLEMAN, set to arrive in stores June 24th. It is the follow-up to Because Of You (released May 2007), which received this year’s Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Album, and In My Own Words (February 2006) – both of which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts.

 

 

 

 

Black Butterfly Buckcherry, CD 781.66 BUC 2008

Buckcherry is back with a purpose, unleashing their newest effort, Black Butterfly. Following the platinum success of 15, these LA rockers haven’t lost any of their edge.

 

 

 

 

 

19  Adele, CD 781.66 ADE 2008

US only 2 CD edition includes a bonus disc with five live tracks,Right as Rain [Live], Melt My Heart to Stone [Live], My Same [Live], That’s It, I Quit, I’m Moving On [Live] and Chasing Pavements [Live] . 19 is the debut album from the singer/songwriter. Citing her influences as diverse as Etta James, Jill Scott, Bjork, Dusty Springfield, Billy Bragg, Billie Holiday, Jeff Buckley, The Cure and Peggy Lee, Adele is a truly unique new artist. With her mix up of R&B and Soul served up with a healthy dash of feisty London attitude, she spins beautiful dark stories of loves won and lost and sometimes just daydreamed about.

 

Imus Ranch Record Various Artists, CD 781.642 IMU 2008

Dwight Yoakam, Willie Nelson, John Hiatt, Lucinda Williams, Little Richard, Randy Travis, Big & Rich, Delbert McClinton, Patty Loveless, Levon Helm, Raul Malo, Bekka Bramlett and Vince Gill lend their voices in support on Th e Im u s Ra n c h Re c o r d , which includes covers of such varied classics as Mamas Don t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys, What A Difference A Day Makes, and You ve Got To Fight For Your Right To Party. The songs were hand-picked by Imus and matched to each artist except for Vince Gill singing A Satisfied Mind, which was a special tribute to the late Porter Wagoner, recorded just hours after Gill sang the song at Wagoner s funeral. Proceeds from this special CD benefit the Imus Ranch, a unique working cattle ranch in New Mexico run by Don and Deirdre Imus, which hosts children who are afflicted with cancer or other serious blood diseases.

 

 

 

 

Oracular Spectacular MGMT, CD 781.66 MGMT 2008

MGMT invites you to open your mind to the multi-dimensional vibrating Technicolor sounds of Oracular Spectacular.

 

August Rush Various Artists, CD 781.542 AUG 2007

August Rush tells the story of a charismatic young Irish guitarist (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) and a sheltered young cellist (Keri Russell) who have a chance encounter one magical night above New York’s Washington Square, but are soon torn apart, leaving in their wake an infant, August Rush, orphaned by circumstance. Now performing on the streets of New York and cared for by a mysterious stranger (Robin Williams), August (Freddie Highmore) uses his remarkable musical talent to seek the parents from whom he was separated at birth.

 

Beneath These Fireworks Matt Nathanson, CD 781.63 NAT 2003

Beneath These Fireworks, produced by Ron Aniello, is Nathanson’s major label debut, and he doesn’t waste the opportunity, cherry picking a trio of songs from his earlier releases (“Bare,” “Bent,” “Lucky Boy”) to re-record, and with some radio-ready new material, the result is an impressively cohesive pop album. Nathanson’s songs are full of the fractured hearts and broken confessions of unhealthy relationships, and while his lyrics stray at times into an ornate despondency, the sheer pop smarts and giant hooks in the arrangements more than compensate.

 

The Bourne Ultimatum Soundtrack Various Artists, CD 781.542 POW 2007

New Music CDs – September 2008

Click on Titles to order from the Library Catalog.

Death Magnetic Metallica, CD 781.66 MET 2008 – One of the most influential bands in music, ranked eighth on the list of the biggest-selling groups in history, Metallica unveils its ninth studio album, Death Magnetic. The band’s first album in five years, Death Magnetic is also its first with renowned producer Rick Rubin (Danzig, Slayer, System Of A Down, Slipknot), first with bassist Robert Trujillo, and first on Warner Bros. Heavy and thrashy, unafraid to embrace the band’s past yet move into the future.

Covers James Taylor – Covers is the cd that James Taylor fans have been anticipating for years. Recorded live with his full band in a barn in Massachusetts that was transformed into a studio, the album is a treasury of songs he has performed live over the years, but never recorded. It is an American songbook of tunes made famous by artists as varied Buddy Holly, The Dixie Chicks, The Temptations, Leonard Cohen, George Jones and Eddie Cochran, but embraced and interpreted by James Taylor in a way that makes each one his own. It is a significant work by one of the greatest artists of his generation, which pays tribute to classic American songs from Broadway to Nashville, Detroit to Memphis and across all boundaries. Covers is in itself a classic James Taylor recording.

The QuiltGym Class Heroes, CD 781.66 GYM 2008 -Gym Class Heroes’ eagerly anticipated third release, The Quilt, follows 2006’s RIAA gold-certified As Cruel As School Children. Acclaimed for their unique approach to alternative hip-hop, Gym Class Heroes became an international sensation in 2007 with their #1 blockbuster hit, ‘Cupid’s Chokehold/Breakfast In America’.

Santogold Santogold, CD 781.66 SAN 2008 – “The future of music, today” – Rolling Stone 10 Artists To Watch. “Singing in a haunting, sensual wail…she adds a layer of softness to an unusual mix of synthesizers, dance hall rhythms, and percolating new wave” – NY Times. “Future-pop princess…next big thing” – Spin. “Santi White is Santogold…the collaborators and players may change, the sounds may shift, but at the center is one woman’s indelible vision” – The Fader. SXSW / Coachella shows, 2007 tours with Bjork, M.I.A., songs featured in Entourage, Grey’s Anatomy, Grand Theft Auto.

That Lucky Old Sun Brian Wilson, CD 781.66 WIL 2008 – Brand new album from legendary writer, producer, arranger and performer Brian Wilson, produced by Brian and created in the Capitol Records Studios where he first recorded in 1962.

Do You Know Jessica Simpson, CD 781.642 SIM 2008 – ‘Come on Over’ the first single from her highly-anticipated 2008 Country album, was written by Jessica, Rachel Proctor, and Victoria Banks. It has already made history as the highest chart debut by a solo artist with no prior history on the Country chart as it races up the charts. The album was produced by Grammyr Award winning songwriter Brett James (Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts) and famed producer John Shanks (Alanis Morissette, Bon Jovi, Keith Urban). Jessica had a hand in penning almost every song on the album, joining some of the best songwriters in Nashville (Troy Verges, Hillary Lindsey). Even more noteworthy is that the title track, “Do You Know,” was written for Jessica by one of her musical idols, Dolly Parton, who also graces the track with her own unique vocals.

Still Unforgettable Natalie Cole, CD 781.63 COL 2008 – 17 Years After The Multi-Platinum Album “Unforgettable…With Love”, The Eight-time Grammy Winning Singer prepares to release her follow-Up album ‘Still Unforgettable’ on 29th September with substantial UK promotion to coincide with the release. This much anticipated release is a timeless collection of popular tracks from the great American songbook, transformed to life with Natalie’s beautiful vocal and iridescent flair. Natalie has had an amazing string of hits throughout the years including ‘This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)’, ‘Miss You Like Crazy’ and ‘Pink Cadillac’, achieving Grammy success eight times over. 1991 saw the release of ‘Unforgettable’ featuring her own poignant arrangements of her Father the legendary Nat King Cole’s greatest hits. The album went on to sell over 14 million copies worldwide. Recorded at the historical Capital Studios in LA and produced by Natalie herself, the album features classics ‘Walkin’ My Baby Back Home’ a duet with Nat King Cole, ‘Come Rain or Come Shine’, ‘Here’s That Rainy Day’ and ‘But Beautiful’. Pre-ceding the album release, is the lead track from the album ‘Walkin’ My Baby Back Home’ – a wonderful duet with her late father Nat King Cole, which was first released by him in the 1950’s

Time the Conqueror Jackson Browne, CD 781.66 BRO 2008 – Browne’s first studio release in six years. Recorded with his longtime band Kevin McCormick, Mark Goldenberg, Mauricio “Fritz” Lewak, and Jeff Young, along with two additional members, Chavonne Morris and Alethea Mills. Look for them on tour this fall.

Down to Earth Jem, CD 781.66 JEM 2008 – Down To Earth is the 2008 album by Jem. Since her 2004’s acclaimed Finally Woken, Jem has spanned the globe. Born in Wales, she resides in LA. On Down to Earth Jem shared production and writing duties with cohorts both old and new, Jeff Bass, one of the two brothers credited with discovering Eminem, and Lester Mendez (Shakira, Santana, and Nelly Furtado). On three other selections, she joined forces with Mike Bradford (bass with Kid Rock) and counts Uncle Kracker and Deep Purple among his production credits.The album reflects the singer/songwriters far-ranging influences including Brazilian percussion on the title track, a hip shaking track complete with funky banjos on ‘Crazy’ and the tempestuous Latin-flavored track ‘I Want You To’.

Only By the NightKings of Leon, CD 781.66 KIN 2008 -Kings of Leon return with the release of their highly anticipated fourth album ‘Only By The Night’ on 22nd September through Columbia Records. ‘Only By The Night’ is a bold and expansive sonic statement that looks set to solidify Kings of Leon’s position as one of the most important international acts of 2008 and beyond. It follows rapidly in the footsteps of the bands previous albums ‘Youth And Young Manhood’, ‘Aha Shake Heartbreak’ & ‘Because Of The Times’, which have quickly established them as one of the most prolific and acclaimed acts around.

Fleet Foxes Fleet Foxes, CD 781.66 FLE 2008 – Seattle’s Fleet Foxes traffic in baroque harmonic pop. They draw influences from the traditions of folk, pop, choral, gospel, sacred harp singing, West Coast music, traditional music from Ireland to Japan, film scores, and their NW peers. The subject matter ranges from the natural world and familial bonds to bygone loves and stone cold graves.

Rattlin’ Bones Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson, CD 781.642 CHA 2008 – 2008 collaboration between Chambers, the beloved Australian singer/songwriter and her husband Shane Nicholson. Drawing on both their songwriting talents and unique voices, Rattlin’ Bones heralds a return to the Alternative Country roots that first launched Kasey’s stellar career. This is Chambers and Nicholson writing and performing heartfelt songs that speak with an undeniable honesty. Whilst giving a sizeable nod to Chambers’ Country Music upbringings, Rattlin’ Bones equally secures Nicholson’s natural fit on the rootsy highway.

Destination China CDs

Just added to the Collection! Erhu ChantAnonymousCD 781.6 MEI 20061. Idyllic Tune2. Weeping River Of Sorrow3. Celebrating The Harvest Of Grapes4. Ode To Shanmenxia Gorge5. Birdsong Echoing In A Quiet Valley6. A Bunch Of Flowers7. Moon Reflected In The Twin-Spring Lake8. Ballad Of North Henan Province

Spirit on Two StringsJie-Bing Chen CD 781.6 CHE 19931. Moon Reflects On Erh-Chaun Spring2. Soughing Pines3. The Flowing River4. On The Way Home5. Birds Singing In A Deserted Mountain6. Flicking Of The Candlelight7. Eve’s Night8. Singing At Leisure9. Bright Prospects

The Essential Guide to ChinaVarious ArtistsCD 781.6 ESS 20082008 three CD set. The Essential Guide to China features over three hours outstanding music celebrating the rich culture and heritage of this ancient and fascinating country. In the lead up to the Olympics, awareness of China and Chinese culture will be at an all-time high, with mass media coverage and profile on all things Chinese. This triple disc set features distinctive traditional music, lush scores from Chinese movies, plus a selection of atmospheric meditation music, evoking the natural beauty and tranquility of China – this set has it all! Essential.

Best of Cui Jian 1986-1996Cui JianCD 781.6 CUI 20061. I Have Nothing2. Solution3. Flying4. Fake Monk5. Starting All Over6. This Space7. Stepping Out8. Bondoir Lady9. It Is Not That I Don’t See10. Wild On The Snow11. Tolerate12. Piece Of Red Cloth13. New Long March

Jasmine FlowerBeijing Angelic ChoirCD 781.6 BEI 1997 1. Children from the Mountain2. The Celebration of the Tribal Harvest Festivals3. The Anthem of Parents4. Eight Fiery Horses5. Snow-White Flower Blossoms6. Wedding7. Dong-Dong Kui (The Anthem Of Joy)8. The Jasmine Flower9. My Beautiful Homeland10. Lady A-Shi-Ma11. The Jubilant Torch Festival Celebration12. My Lovely Hometown13. A Rainy Day

Tan bo Zhongguo = Tug at China’s HeartstringsGuanren GuCD 781.6 TUG 20071. Jolly Tune2. Night Banquet3. Street-Walking Musicians4. In the Still Of Late Night5. Tune From Jin Region6. When Spring Visits South China7. Journey Beyond Xi Kou8. Riddle Guessing9. Camel Bell Ring Echoing Along the Silk Road10. Xi Trio For Three Sets Of Cymbals11. Ambush On All Sides12. Night In Moscow13. Saber Dance

Sunny SpringWu Wen’GuangCD 781.6 WU 2006 Maestro Wu has greatly contributed to the ancient Chinese qin art and this specially priced two-disc set captures some of his finest moments

Young Virtuosi from ShanghaiLiu Ming-yuanCD 781.6 CHI 2006 There is a startling contrast between the ultra-modern megalopolis of Shanghai and the traditional instruments played with amazing virtuosity by young outstanding musicians. Here, six brilliant soloists featur interpret pieces ranging from very old times to the early 20th century. Their precise, sensitive interpretations, as well as the well-documented liner notes, make this album a pleasant introduction to ancient, traditional, and classical styles of erudite Chinese music.1. Wai shan hu chuan ge2. Jin diao3. Gua hong deng4. Yi zu wu qu5. Liu shui6. Han jiang can xue7. Mai cai8. Bei ge9. Shan cun xiao jing10. Bing zhong yin11. Mo li hua12. Xi yang yang13. Han ya xi shui14. Jiang jun ling15. Shan dan dan16. Yu zhou chang wan

Eleven Centuries of Traditional Music of ChinaVarious ArtistsCD 781.6 ELE 1989 1. The Ambush3. Water And Clouds Over The Rivers Hsiao And Hsiang4. Wild Geese Descend On Level Sands5. High Moon6. Thunderstorm7. Water Lilly8. The Metamorphosis Of The Solitary Female PhoenixLook directly into the sunCD 781.6 LOO 20071. Close Your Cold Eyes2. Jai Jung3. Mario And Peaches4. Storm Eyes5. Pink 09 – Determining the Dose6. Dang7. Take Me Home8. What More9. Shanghai10. Song 511. Love Of Sun12. Nasty13. Fight Your Apathy14. Hold The Line15. Light16. Chian17. Panda18. We Just Free

Erhu classicsChen, JunCD 781.6 JUN 20001. Shaking Red Candle Flame2. Horse-Racing3. River Waters4. Erquan Spring Reflecting The Moon5. Beautiful Coconut Tree Island6. Moonlight7. Yizhihua8. Village Scenery9. Sunshine On Tashkurgan10. Galloping War-Horses

Chinese bamboo flute musicCD 781.6 CHI 19931. Capriccio For Chinese Flute2. The Flower Of Hsin-Jang3. A Tayal Folk Song4. The Funy On The Horseback5. Go Dating With My Love6. The Maidens Of The Tea Mountain7. Chatting With An Old Friend By The Window8. The Song Of The Four Seasons9. The Crab And The Egret

Phases of the moonCD 781.629 PHA 19811. The Moon Mirrored In The Pool2. The Moon On High3. Days of Emancipation4. Dance of the Yao People5. Peking Opera Melody: Flowing Water6. Tashwayi7. Spring on the Pamir Plateau8. Purple Bamboo Melody9. Dancing in the Moonlight10. Song of the Herdsmen11. Spring on a Moonlit River

Silk Sound Liu Fang CD 781.6 LIU 20061. High Mountains And Rippling Waters 2. Jasmine Flower 3. The King Of Chu Doffs His Armour 4. Primary Meeting 5. The Dragon Boat 6. Gold-Embroidered Tapestry 7. Kanding Love-Song 8. Autumn Moon Over The Calm Lake 9. Light Wind In A Cloud Of Falling Snow-Flakes 10. Autumn Moon Over The Han Imperial Palace 11. A Walk In The Country Of Dreams

Classical Chinese Folk Music Various Artists CD 781.629 CLA 1999 Disc: 1 1. Zi Zhu Diao (Purple Bamboo Melody) – Chen Dacan 2. Yu Ge (Song Of The Fisherman) – Li He 3. Jiang He Shui (Rivers And Streams) – Chen Dacan 4. Wu Bang Zi – Li He 5. Sai Ma (Horse Races) – Chen Dacan 6. Springtime On The Tianshan Mountains – Cheng Yu 7. Gu Xiang (My Home Town) – Chen Dacan 8. Huan Le Ge (Happy Song) – Li He 9. Liang Xiang (Beautiful Evening) – Chen Dacan 10. Chun Dou Xiang Jiang (Spring Comes To Xiang River) – Li He 11. Er Quan Ying Yue (Spring Water Reflects The Moon) – Chen Dacan 12. Flowing Water From The High Mountain – Cheng Yu 13. Feng Shou (Bumper Harvest) – Chen Dacan Disc: 2 1. Mu Min Xin Ge – Li He 2. Ping Hu Qiu Yue (Still Lake Under The Autumn Moon) – Chen Dacan 3. Guo Sou Xing (A Trip To Guo Sou) – Li He 4. San Liu (Three And Six) – Chen Dacan 5. In The Evening Of The Torch Festival – Cheng Yu 6. E Ma Yao Ling (Hungry Horses Ringing Bells) – Chen Dacan 7. Xi Xiang Fen (Happy Reunion) – Li He 8. Han Gong Qui Yue (Autumn Moon At The ‘Han’ Palace) – Chen Dacan 9. Three Ancient Tunes From Yenzhou:The Moon High In The Sky/Appreciation Of Plum Blossom By Winter… – Cheng Yu 10. Zo Xi Kou: The Wedding/The Cry Of Separation/Departure/Hope – Li He 11. Xi Yang Yang – Chen Dacan

Rough Guide to the Music of ChinaVarious Artists CD 781.6 CHI 20031. Yi Wu Suo You (Nothing To My Name) – Cui Jian2. Silaihuar – Urna3. Jiu Kuang ‘The Drinking Song’ – Yao Gongbai4. Wo Yao Hui Jia (I Want To Go Home) – Bai Hong5. My 1997 – Ai Jing6. Stone Forest Nocturne – Min Xiao-Fen7. Hong Niang Hui Zhang Sheng – Zheng Jun Mian8. Shanaxi Air – Silk Road Music9. Yellow Banana – Hang On The Box10. Nocturnal Light – Kin Tall11. Li Xiang Lan – Lan Guei Ji Ji12. The Green Brook Running – Tse Chun Yan13. Tirik Bostan – Sinkiang Uighur Autonomous Region, Song & Dance Ensemble14. Bo – Wu Xing15. Chiang Wei Cu Cu Kai – Gong Chio Xia16. Autumn Moon – Tats Lau17. The Night Of Bonfire – Liu Fang

Heavenly Bamboo and Silk StringsCD 781.6 HEA 20061. Autumn Meditation at the Dressing Table, A Theme of Tunes from the Nort2. Tune for a Peaceful Night3. Turned Over Curtain, Guangdong Music4. Wind Bathing Melody, Xiao and Music Band5. Autumn Wind Tune, Sichuan Genre Music6. Lament for Ying City, Ancient Tune7. Spring Thoughts in the Palace, Lute and Xiao Tune8. Three Variations on the Yangguan Theme, Xun and Music Band9. Thinking of an Old Friend, Ancient Tune10. Swirling Purple Cloud, Zither and Xiao Tune11. Puan Incantation, Ancient Tune

Album Descriptions and Artwork taken from AllMusic.com and Amazon.com

New Music CDs – Summer 2008

Click on Titles to order from the Library Catalog.
All Sides O.A.R., CD 781.66 OAR 2008
O.A.R. has come to stand for authentic Rock music that reflects the collective triumphs and tragedies we all experience is this world: Real people making real music that resounds deeply with their fans. The songs on this album showcase every facet of the band and it’s musical tastes which led to calling the album ‘All Sides’.

Classical Barbra Barbra Streisand, CD 782.42 STR 1976

One of Barbra Streisand’s more esoteric projects, Classical Barbra is an album of European art songs composed by Debussy, Handel, Schumann, and others and sung in French, German, Latin, Italian, and English. Streisand is in typically good voice, and while the album must have been a stretch for her usual audience and a surprise to the classical audience, she carries the performances off.

 

Crayons Donna Summer, CD 781.63 SUM 2008

Summer helped to define the 70’s pop music generation and Crayons has all the characteristics that made Donna an icon. Containing a potent mix of the up-tempo tunes and ballads, the new album showcases incredible new material that is written by Donna (who wrote or co-wrote the majority of her hits of the 70’s and 80’s). Working with Donna were renowned writers and producers including: Greg Kurstin (Lilly Allen, Pink), Danielle Brisebois (Natasha Bedingfield, New Radicals), JR Rotem (Sean Kingston, Rihanna), Evan Bogart (co-writer of Rihanna’s smash “SOS” and the son of legendary record executive, Casablanca Records founder and Donna’s mentor, Neil Bogart), and Lester Mendez (Shakira, Santana).

 

The Dark Knight Various Artists, CD 781.542 ZIM 2008

Soundtrack album for the 2008 Batman movie, The Dark Knight. Music composed by Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard. The Dark Knight is an American superhero film based on the DC Comics character Batman. The film is a sequel to 2005’s Batman Begins, which rebooted the Batman film series after an eight-year hiatus. Actor Heath Ledger stars as The Joker.The CD contains 14 tracks of powerful punches of Batman’s adventures of good vs evil.

Esperanza Esperanza Spalding, CD 781.63 SPA 2008

Esperanza, bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding’s debut on Heads Up International, is set for worldwide release on May 20, 2008. Armed with uncanny instrumental chops, a siren voice that spans three languages, and composing and arranging skills that weave together the best elements of the old-school with the progressive, this 23-year-old has crafted a debut album that takes a completely fresh and refreshing approach to jazz by borrowing from the rich traditions of soul, pop, world music and so much more. Esperanza is joined in the studio by a crew of A-list session players, including flamenco guitar virtuoso Niño Josele, percussionist Jamey Haddad, drummer Horacio “El Negro” Hernández, saxophonist Donald Harrison and several other seasoned talents – all of whom collectively serve as further evidence of the kind of creative energy and magnetism that she radiates.

Forgiven Los Lonely Boys, CD 781.66 LON 2008

Forgiven is the third album from Grammy Award winning multi platinum artist Los Lonely Boys. This album was produced by Steve Jordan (John Mayer). Forgiven is the follow up to Sacred which debuted at #2 on the Billboard charts in July 2006. The album’s first single ‘Staying With Me’ premiered on May 5th Cinco De Mayo. Los Lonely Boys are a rock band from San Angelo, Texas. They play a style of music which they dub as Texican Rock n’ Roll, combining elements of Rock’N’Roll, Blues, Soul, Country, and Tejano.

 

Greatest Hits: Every Mile a Memory Dierks Bentley 2003-2008, CD 781.642 BEN 2008

Five years, five #1 hits, six Grammy nominations, and one CMA Horizon Award later, Platinum-selling country superstar Dierks Bentley brings you a collection of his fan’s favorites on Greatest Hits/Every Mile A Memory 2003-2008. The compilation features ten of Dierks’ most recognizable hits, two brand new songs, and five live songs selected exclusively by his fans! Dierks has given his loyal fans creative control of this project, allowing them to handpick the content of the album, cover art, and the album title. Participating fans will then have their names listed in the liner notes of the project as executive producers. Dierk says, ‘I can’t think of a better way to get my fans involved than to have them actually act as executive producers of this record’.

Joshua Tree U2, CD 781.66 U2 1987

Having nearly exhausted their capacity for pop-song politics on War and The Unforgettable Fire, U2 turned toward themes of personal identity and complex relationships on The Joshua Tree. Not that the group was willing to come down off the barricades entirely: “Mothers of the Disappeared” and “Bullet the Blue Sky” turned a jaundiced eye toward Central America and the United States’ role there. But the predominant mood here is one of self-discovery and the hunger for something more on tracks like the pulsating “Where the Streets Have No Name” and the gospel-ish “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.” The album’s masterstroke, however, is “With or Without You,” a nasty love song dressed up as an ode of devotion and care. It ranks with the Police’s “Every Breath You Take” as the most misread smash hit of the ’80s.

Julianne Hough Julianne Hough, CD 781.642 HOU 2008

Julianne Hough is already known to millions of fans as the two-time professional dance champion on ABC-TV’s top-rated Dancing with the Stars (DWTS). The show, which pairs professional dancers with music, sports, film and television celebrities, has become a cultural phenomenon and Julianne its top star. Julianne’s debut album is a compelling collection of songs about the joys and challenges of everyday life delivered by an evocative young voice.

 

Lay It Down Al Green, CD 781.643 GRE 2008

Lay It Down with 11 tracks by Al Green. Friends laying it down with Al Green are Anthony Hamilton on the opening album title track and on ‘You’ve Got the Love I Need’. Corinne Bailey Rae sings with Al on ‘Take Your Time’ and John Legend joins in on ‘Stay With Me (By The Sea)’.

 

Life, Death, Love & Freedom John Mellencamp, CD 781.66 MEL 2008

The man who has been called `the poet laureate of the interstate’ has reached deep into his soul, bringing forth an album of unparalleled maturity powered by a piercing musical vision. Produced by T Bone Burnett (“O’ Brother Where Art Thou,” Robert Plant, Allison Krauss)

Love on the Inside Sugarland, CD 781.642 SUG 2008

Mercury Nashville’s super duo Sugarland will release their third studio album entitled, Love On The Inside, July 29. Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush co-wrote all tracks and have teamed up with Byron Gallimore again to produce.

 

Loverly Cassandra Wilson, CD 781.65 WIL 2008

Long considered one of the finest singers in the jazz world, Cassandra Wilson’s new album is a tour de force of emotion, technique, interpretation and style as she brings her considerable powers to this collection of classic songs. Once again she has gathered a band of shining talent, featuring the brilliant Jason Moran on Piano with guitarist Marvin Sewell and Lonnie Plaxico on bass – a band that is so good together that Cassandra was happy to sit in the producer’s chair and let the songs speak for themselves. Featuring incredible interpretations of the classics like Black Orpheus, Caravan, and The Very Thought of You, Cassandra is one of the few singers that can genuinely re-invent a song that we all think we know, such as Wouldn’t It Be Loverly and turn it breathe new emotional life into it. However, the standout track has to be the stunning funky, soulful, brooding St. James Infirmary which has become a staple of her live set.

Modern Guilt Beck, 781.63 BEC 2008

The new album contains 10 new songs, and with the exception of last year’s Grammy-nominated, digital-only single “Timebomb”, Modern Guilt is the first new material Beck has written since the prolific stretch that produced 2005’s platinum Guero and 2006’s universally acclaimed The Information. Modern Guilt is a tightly assembled group of songs that range in lyrical tone from introspection and social commentary to off the cuff wordplay and lighthearted humor. Musically, the album’s ten tracks vacillate between economy and experimentation, hybrid and pop classicism, while consistently manifesting Beck and Danger Mouse’s shared interest in psych-rock, folk, electronic minimalism and orchestration.

Pearl Janis Joplin, 781.66 JOP 1999

Janis Joplin made the blues her own. Though she didn’t live to finish this album before her 1970 death from a heroin overdose, her intense passion and frantic cries of pain and ecstasy were enough to make Pearl one of the most memorable recordings of her era. Her band does fill up some vinyl with the instrumental “Buried Alive in the Blues,” but it’s the vocals that make this album worth hearing these many decades later. Listen to the tortured heartbreak of “Cry Baby” or the hopeful declarations of Kris Kristofferson’s “Me & Bobby McGee” and understand why Joplin remains an essential, if tragic, figure in pop. This reissue of Joplin’s final album includes four live bonus tracks recorded during the 1970 Canadian Festival Express Tour.

 

Stone of Sisyphus (XXXII) Chicago, 781.66 CHI 2008

Formed in its namesake city in 1967, Chicago is the first American band ever to propel albums into Billboard®’s pop Top 40 for five consecutive decades, and is among the most successfully charting U.S.-grown acts of all time. Now, another page in the band’s history is revealed with the long-awaited release of Stone Of Sisyphus, the once shelved album that has attained legendary status among fans and critics alike. Recorded in 1993 and originally intended as Chicago XXII, the disc marked a return to the genre-transcending, adventurous fusion of sounds that defined the group’s 1970s-era heyday. Three tracks from it surfaced on Rhino’s 2003 Chicago box, but the album itself is previously unissued—now, this momentous release also features four incredibly rare bonus tracks.

Taylor Swift Taylor Swift, 781.642 SWI 2008

Three years ago, a 13-year old Taylor Swift set out to be a star and moved from Reading, Pennsylvania, to Nashville. By 14, she had a publishing deal, and by 15, a recording contract. In these days of Bianca Ryan (and before her, Tanya Tucker and LeAnn Rimes), many are called, but few are chosen. Swift, it appears, is one of the chosen ones. Her vocal talent is modest, though sweetly affecting, her style seemingly influenced by the radio hits of early Sheryl Crow and Michelle Branch, and perhaps Cyndi Thomson. And at times, her youthfulness shows–she encoded messages in the lyrics of her CD booklet, starting with the name of the boy who cheated on her from “Should’ve Said No” (the album’s strongest offering). But in writing or co-writing all 11 songs on this debut, Swift demonstrates remarkable maturity, particularly in crafting a hooky, radio-ready chorus.

Temptation: Music from the Showtime Series Californication Various Artists, 781.546 TEM 2007

Album contains twenty tracks of music from Californication, the Showtime 12-part series production created by Tom Kapinos and starring David Duchovny as Hank Moody, a troubled novelist whose move to LA and problems with his job complicate the relationships with his ex-girlfriend Karen (Natascha McElhone) and daughter Becca (Madeleine Martin).Songs featured are from The Rolling Stones, Peeping Tom, My Morning Jacket and The Doors plus several songs from the series.

 

25th Anniversary of Thriller Michael Jackson, 781.63 JAC 2008

The Biggest Album Ever just got bigger. The 25th Anniversary Edition of Thriller celebrates this ground-breaking album with 7 bonus tracks, six of which are previously unreleased. The new tracks include exclusive remixes from Kanye West, Fergie, will.i.am and Akon along with a previously unreleased track from the Thriller sessions, “For All Time,” newly mixed and mastered by Michael Jackson. Also included is a BONUS DVD with new, digitally restored versions of the three videos from the album as well as the Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking performance of “Billie Jean” on the “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever” television special.

Where the Light Is John Mayer, 781.66 MAY 2008

Two CD set. This album captures the multi-Grammy Award winning, platinum selling singer and songwriter in the element where fans love him the most – Live on stage! The special concert includes three sets: an acoustic performance, a rare set with John Mayer Trio (with Steve Jordan and Pino Palladino), as well as a set featuring Mayer’s full band, all recorded during the night of December 8, 2007 at the Nokia Theater in LA. This album features the quintessential performer as an acoustic songwriter, electric guitar slinger, bluesman and vocalist. Highlights include many of Mayer’s biggest hits, ‘Waiting On The World To Change’ new interpretations of cover songs, ‘Free Fallen’ and a previously unreleased Mayer gem ‘In Your Atmosphere’.

Wow Hits 2008 Various Artists, 781.7 WOW 2007

The most in-demand record of the year is back WOW Hits 2008, A 2 CD set of the year’s top Christian artists and songs. For over 10 years now the Christian music industry has partnered together to bring fans the most impressive collection of hits available anywhere! WOW Hits 2008 is also a perfect gift for those new to the experience of Christian music.