New DVD Releases – December 2008

Richelle

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

The four Pevensie children – Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy – return to Narnia, only to discover that hundreds of years have passed since they ruled there. Now, crowning himself king, the evil General Miraz has taken charge. The children enlist the help of a heroic mouse called Reepicheep. They set out find the exiled Prince Caspian, determined to see him rightfully named king. Cast: Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, William Moseley, Anna Popplewell. Based on the book by C.S. Lewis. Rated PG

The Dark Knight

With the help of Lieutenant Jim Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent, Batman raises the stakes on his war on crime and sets out to dismantle the remaining criminal organizations that plague the city streets. The partnership proves to be effective, but they soon find themselves prey to a reign of chaos unleashed by a rising criminal mastermind known to the terrified citizens of Gotham as The Joker. The Joker, whose eerie grin, laughter, and inhuman morality makes him dangerous. Batman seeks to stop the mysterious Joker at all costs. He has no method at all and seeks to see the world plunge into the fire he has yet to light. But, Batman has come to represents the symbol of hope. Cast: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Heath Ledger, Gary Oldman, Aaron Eckhart, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Morgan Freeman. Rated PG-13

Fred Claus

Fred Claus has lived in his little brother’s shadow for most of his life. Fred is in jail and Nicholas has to bail him out on the condition he come to the North Pole and repay his debt. Vince Vaughn, Paul Giamatti, John Michael Higgins, Miranda Richardson, John Michael Higgins, Rachel Weisz, Kathy Bates, Elizabeth Banks, Kevin Spacey. Rated PG

Hancock

Hancock is a hard-living and misunderstood superhero who has fallen out of favor with the public. When he grudgingly agrees to an extreme makeover from idealistic publicist Ray Embrey, his life and reputation rise from the ashes and all seems right again –until he meets a woman with similar powers to his and the key to his secret past. Cast: Will Smith, Charlize Theron, Jason Bateman, Eddie Marsan.  Rating: PG-13

The Happening

An unstoppable event threatens the world’s population by attacking the most basic human instinct of all: survival. Elliot Moore is an ordinary man who is trying to save his family from a terrifying, invisible killer. As Elliot discovers the incredible possibility of what is happening, it becomes very clear that no one is safe. Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Zooey Deschanel, John Leguizamo, Betty Buckley. Rated  R

Horton Hears a Who

One day, Horton the elephant hears a cry for help coming from a speck of dust. Even though he can’t see anyone on the speck, he decides to help it. Good thing since as it turns out, the speck of dust is home to the Whos, who live in their city of Whoville. Horton agrees to help protect the Whos and their home. Unfortunately for Horton, this gives him nothing but torment from his neighbors. They refuse to believe that anything could survive on the speck. Still, Horton stands by the motto that, “After all, a person is a person, no matter how small.” Voices: Jim Carrey, Steve Carell, Carol Burnett, Will Arnett, Seth Rogen, Isla Fisher, Jonah Hill, Amy Poehler. Rated G

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Science professor Trevor Anderson’s radical theories have tarnished his reputation. While backpacking across Iceland with his nephew Sean, the two find a cave that leads them deep down into the bowels of the planet. They go on a quest to find out what has happened to Trevor’s missing brother, also a scientist. Trevor, Sean and their mountain guide discover a fantastic and dangerous lost world in the center of the earth. There, they discover a bizarre landscape filled with terrifying creatures. Cast: Brendan Fraser, Josh Hutcherson, Anita Briem. Based on the novel by Jules Verne. Rated PG

Man on Wire

A look at the high-wire walk made by Philippe Petit in 1974 between the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers in New York City, and how it is still considered one of history’s most artistic crimes. Based on the book To Reach the Clouds, by Philippe Petit. Rated PG-13

The Perfect Holiday

A single mother is raising her three children after the divorce from her rapper ex-husband. Her oldest son wants his parents to get back together. The youngest daughter would rather see her mom happy and decides to use Santa Claus to get her wish. The kids practically compete to see who will win the war of love. Cast: Morris Chestnut, Gabrielle Union, Faizon Love, Terrence Howard, Queen Latifah, Charlie Murphy, Katt Williams, Jill Marie Jones, Rachel True, Malik Hammond, Khail Bryant.Rated PG

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2

Join the four best friends as they finish their first year of college and dive into a summer of excitement. Bridget journeys to Turkey on an archeological dig. Carmen plunges into the hectic, creative world of summer theater in Vermont. Lena discovers new love and old heartbreak at the Rhode Island School of Design. Tibby takes a big step in her relationship with Brian in the Big Apple. Cast: Amber Tamblyn, America Ferrera, Blake Lively, Alexis Bledel, Rachel Nichols, Rachel Ticotin, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Blythe Danner. Based on the novel by Ann Brashares. Rated PG-13

Step Brothers

Brennan and Dale are two middle-aged loafers who are forced to live together when their parents get married. When their immature antics over TV privileges and personal property take their toll on their parents’ marriage, the devious duo hatch a scheme to reunite the couple. Cast: Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Richard Jenkins, Mary Steenburgen, Adam Scott, Kathryn Hahn. Rated R

This Christmas

For the first time in years, the entire Whitfield clan has come home to spend the Christmas holiday with their mother and her boyfriend. Each has brought plenty of baggage along with them. As the lights are hung and the tree is trimmed, secrets are revealed and ties are tested, but eventually they rediscover and celebrate the wonderful gift of family. Cast: Delroy Lindo, Idris Elba, Loretta Devine, Chris Brown, Columbus Short, Regina King, Keith Robinson, Laz Alonso, Sharon Leal, Lauren London. Rated PG-13

Wall-E

Walt Disney Pictures presents a Pixar Animation Studios film. After hundreds of lonely years, a waste management robot finds a new purpose in life. With only a cockroach for a friend, he finds true love in another robot sent on a mission to Earth to see if it is safe for human life. MPAA rating: G.

Wanted

Wes is 25 years old and is a disaffected, clock-punching drone. His boss chews him out hourly, his girlfriend ignores him routinely, and his life plods on in interminable boredom and routine. Everyone knows Wes will amount to nothing – that is until he meets the sexy woman named Fox, and then everything changes. Wes’ estranged father is murdered, and the deadly Fox recruits him into The Fraternity, a secret society that trains him to avenge his father’s death, by unlocking his dormant powers. Fox teaches Wes how to develop his lightning-quick reflexes and phenomenal agility. He discovers that The Fraternity lives by an ancient, unbreakable code: to carry out the death orders given by emotionless Fate itself. Cast: James McAvoy, Morgan Freeman, Terence Stamp, Thomas Kretschmann, Angelina Jolie. Rated R

The X Files

When a group of women are mysteriously abducted, the FBI reunites agents Mulder and Scully to investigate.Cast: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Amanda Peet, Billy Connelly, Alvin “Xzibit” Joiner. Rating: PG-13.

You Don’t Mess with the Zohan

The Zohan is the finest counterterrorist agent the Israeli army has. That is, until he fakes his death and travels to Manhattan to live his dream as a hairdresser. All goes well until his cover is blown when he’s recognized by a Palestinian cab driver. The Zohan must now fight to live a peaceful new life in New York with his new career. Cast: Adam Sandler, John Turturro, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Nick Swardson, Lainie Kazan, Rob Schneider. Rated: PG-13

New DVDs: TV Series and Feature Length Films – December 2008

Richelle

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Seven

René, a French café owner during World War II, wants only to run his café and enjoy the occassional transgression with his waitresses. Now the Germans and the Resistance want him executed, his mother-in-law is missing, and he is smuggling food to a downed British airmen in a storm drain.  Cast: Gorden Kaye, Richard Marner, Carmen Silvera, Kim Hartman, Vicki Michelle, Richard Gibson, Kirsten Cooke, Guy Siner, Arthur Bostrom, Sue Hodge, Kenneth Connor.  Originally broadcast on BBC TV in 1991. Not Rated

 

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Eight

Things are looking up for René Artois. The British airmen have finally escaped to England, Captain Bertorelli and his Italian troops have gone home, and the war is going badly for the Germans. Could this mean the return to a peaceful life? Cast: Gorden Kaye, Richard Marner, Carmen Silvera, Kim Hartman, Vicki Michelle, Richard Gibson, Kirsten Cooke, Guy Siner, Arthur Bostrom, Sue Hodge, Kenneth Connor.  Originally broadcast on the BBC during the 1991-1992 season.  Not Rated.

 

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Nine

The end of the war is in sight and Rene is eagerly anticipating a quick return to normalcy. Unfortunately, this is Nouvion, and normalcy will have to wait. Cast: Gorden Kaye, Ricahrd Marner, Carmen Silvera, Kim Hartman, Vicki Michelle. Originally broadcast as a BBC television series in 1992.  Not rated.

 

 

Byron

Relive the true story of one of history’s greatest romantic and tragic heroes. Byron was a figure who defined the romantic spirit of the early 19th century. In five days he rises from obscurity to superstar status, but throws it all away in a scandal.  Cast: Jonny lee Miller, Natasha Little, Vanessa Redgrave, Julie Cox, Philip Glenister. A 2005 BBC Production.  Not Rated.

 

Count Dracula

Jonathan Harker visits the Count in Transylvania to help him with preparations to move to England. It is in the Count’s castle that Jonathan becomes a prisoner, and discovers Dracula’s true nature. Cast: Louis Jourdan, Frank Finlay, Susan Penhaligon, Judi Bowker, Mark Burns, Jack Shepherd.  Based on the novel by Bram Stoker. Originally broadcast on BBC TV in 1977.  Not rated.

 

Mulberry: The Complete Series

Mulberry, the cheerful Cockney son of Death and Springtime, starts his “career” as the Grim Reaper’s apprentice when he is sent to collect the acerbic and reclusive Miss Farnaby. He instead joins the staff in her creaky manor house, becomes her personal servant, and endeavors to help her enjoy life during the three month extension grudgingly granted by his dad. What will happen when winter ends and spring arrives? Will life go on?Cast: Geraldine McEwan, Karl Howman.A BBC TV Production broadcast in 1992.  Not Rated

 

Liz Lemon is the head writer of a live variety program in New York City. Liz’s life is turned upside down when brash new network executive Jack Donaghy interferes with her show, bringing the wildly unpredicatable Tracy Jordan into the cast. Now it’s up to Liz to manage the mayhem and still try to have a life. Cast: Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski, Jack McBrayer, Scott Adsit, Judah Friedlander, Alec Baldwin.  Not Rated.

More Christmas CDs

Richelle

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

Richelle

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 Books on CD – December 2008

Richelle

Against Medical Advice James Patterson and Hal Friedman – The best selling novelist presents his first nonfiction title with the story of Cory Friedman, a young man who endured years of suffering with Tourette’s syndrome.

Ahead of the Curve: Two Years at Harvard Business School Philip Delves Broughton – A Harvard MBA has been the golden ticket to American business. The author relates his educational experiences.

The Beach House Jane Green – When she learns she may lose her beloved house, Nantucket resident Nan takes out an ad — rooms to rent for the summer.

Black & White and Dead All Over John Darnton – New York police detective Priscilla Bollingsworth investigates the death of a merciless local newspaper editor.

The Bodies Left BehindJeffery Deaver – A night time call to 911 brings Brynn McKenzie to a scene of horror and a forced flight into the woods of Wisconsin.

Change Your Brain, Change Your Life Daniel G. Amen – The author states that anxiety, depression, anger and obsessiveness can be controlled by healing your brain.

The Christmas Sweater Glenn Beck – When 13-year-old Eddie receives a Christmas sweater instead of bicycle he is very disappointed. Later after his mother’s death, the sweater is all Edie has to remind him of her.

The Condition Jennifer Haigh – The McKotch family is devastated upon learning about the medical condition of their only daughter.

The Dark Side: The Inside Story of How the War on Terror Turned into a War on American IdealsJane Mayer – The decisions made following the events of September 11, 2001 will continue to affect America is the coming years.

Devil May Care Sebastian Faulks writing as Ian Fleming – A new James Bond thriller written to celebrate the centenary of Ian Fleming’s birth.

The Gate House Nelson DeMille – The author returns to the fabled Gold Coast of Long Island and the changing world of ultra-WASP, John Sutter.

The Given Day Dennis Lehane – At the end of World War I, America was a country torn by political and civil unrest. This sweeping novel centers on the events surrounding the Boston Police Strike of 1919. Starred reviews.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows – A wonderful story about a unique book club that became an alibi to protect its members from arrest by the Germans during WWII.

I See You Everywhere Julia Glass – The complex bond between sisters is explored in this tale of conscientious Louisa and iconoclastic Clem.

Havana Nocturne: How the Mob Owned Cuba…and Then Lost it to the Revolution T.J. English – The true tale of organized crime and political corruption that preceded the Cuban Revolution.

Heat Lightning John Sandford – The author’s latest outing features Minnesota investigator Virgil Flowers and a disturbing series of murders.

Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution—and How It Can Renew AmericaThomas L. Friedman – The noted author of The World Is Flat looks at America’s loss of focus and the global environmental situation and how these two problems are linked.

Hot Mahogany Stuart Woods – Stone Barrington is enjoying a quiet meal at Elaine’s when he is drawn into the cutthroat world of priceless antiques.

The Laughter of Dead Kings Elizabeth Peters – Vicky Bliss is back! The beautiful and brainy art historian/sleuth is in Egypt searching for solutions in the mysterious Valley of the Kings.

Legally Dead Edna Buchanan – U.S. Marshal Michael Venturi has a nightmare situation when a relocated government witness terrorizes a small town.

The Lucky One Nicholas Sparks – On a tour of duty in Iraq, U.S. Marine Logan Thibault finds a photograph of a young woman that changes his life.

A Most Wanted ManJohn Le Carré – Issa, a young Russian man smuggled into Hamburg, meets up with Annabel, a civil rights lawyer, and Tommy Brue, as they become victims of rival intelligence operations in the War on Terror.

My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey Jill Bolte Taylor – The author, a brain scientist, experienced a massive stroke at the age of 37. She shares her perspective on the brain and its capacity for recovery.

Rough Weather Robert B. Parker – Spenser is a bodyguard at a society wedding when his nemesis, Gray Man, guns down guests and kidnaps the bride.

Tailspin Catherine Coulter – Psychologist Timothy MacLean is in danger of being killed by a former patient.

This Land is Their Land: Reports from a Divided Nation Barbara Ehrenreich – A satirical take on class disparities in the United States.

The War Within: A Secret White House History 2006-2008 Bob Woodward – The author’s fourth book about the Bush administration takes the reader through the highest levels of decision-making at the White House, Pentagon and State Department.

We Are Soldiers Still: A Journey Back to the Battlefields of VietnamHarold G. Moore and Joseph L. Galloway – The author of We Were Soldiers Once… And Young, revisits his relationships with ten American veterans as well as a Vietnamese general and two of his commanders.

New Fiction – December 2008

Lynne

The Comforts of a Muddy Saturday Alexander McCall Smith – Isabel Dalhousie returns to help a doctor who has been disgraced by allegations of scientific fraud

Company of Liars Karen Maitland – In 1348 the Black Plague is gripping England. Nine desperate strangers try to outrun certain death by traveling through the country.

Cross Country James Patterson – Detective Alex Cross pursues the most ruthless killer he’s ever encountered. 

A Cure for Night Justin Peacock – Forced to resign from his prestigious Manhattan law firm for drug abuse, Joel Deveraux becomes a public defender in Brooklyn. 

 Dark Summer Iris Johansen – Veterinarian Devon Brady never suspects that Ned, a wounded black lab, will plunge her into a whirlwind of terror and destruction.

 Deaf Sentence David Lodge – Desmond Bates is a recently retired linguistics professor and vexed by his encroaching deafness and at loose ends with his life.

 Devil’s Brood Sharon Kay Penman – The long-awaited third book in the author’s trilogy of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquataine concludes their timeless stories.

 The Eleventh Man Ivan Doig – A college football team from Montana is scattered around theglobe during World War II. One teammate’s assignment is to chronicle the story of each member of his team.

Exposed Alex Kava – FBI Agent Maggie O’Dell and Assistant Director Cunningham believe they are responding to a threat made at Quantico. Instead they walk into a trap.

Extreme Measures Vince Flynn – Counterterrorism operative, Mitch Rapp, wages war against a bin Laden wannabe whose group is about to descend on America.

The Fire Katherine Neville – Finally, twenty years after the publication of The Eight, comes a continuation of the global adventure.

First Daughter Eric Van Lustbader – After his troubled youth, Jack McClure becomes a top ATF agent.  A call from his friend, the newly elected president, ramps up a search for a kidnapped child.

 The Glass of Time: The Secret Life of Miss Esperanza Gorst Michael Cox – A story of murder, love and revenge in Victorian England.

The Gate House Nelson DeMille – The author returns to the fabled Gold Coast of Long Island and the changing world of ultra-WASP John Sutter.

Heat Lightning John Sandford – The author’s latest outing features Minnesota investigator Virgil Flowers and a disturbing series of murders.

Hot MahoganyStuart Woods – Stone Barrington is trying to enjoy a quiet meal at Elaine’s restaurant when he is drawn into the cutthroat world of priceless antiques.

 I See You Everywhere Julia Glass – The intertwined lives of two sisters, the conscientious older sister and the younger, a daring rebel, are depicted over the course of 25 years.

The Lucky One Nicholas Sparks – On a tour of duty in Iraq, U.S. Marine Logan Thibault finds a photograph of a young woman that eventually changes his life. 

Lulu in Marrakech Diane Johnson – Lulu Sawyer arrives in Morocco, hoping to rekindle a romance with Englishman Ian Drumm, and also to begin her assignment as an undercover agent for the CIA.

 A Most Wanted Man John Le Carré – Issa, a young Russian man smuggled into Hamburg, meets up with Annabel, a civil rights lawyer, and Tommy Brue as they become victims of rival intelligence operations in the War on Terror. 

One Fifth Avenue Candace Bushnell – Living in New York City’s most elite apartment building, five women pursue relationships and personal dreams in a privileged world.

 An Outrageous Affair Penny Vincenzi – A family saga  tells the story of Caroline and her two daughters, Chloe and Fleur, and their lives in wartime England to 1950’s Hollywood.

 The School on Heart’s Content Road Carolyn Chute – Egypt, Maine is the setting for this story of Mickey Gammon, a 15-year-old dropout, and his introduction into the secretive world of the “Settlement” and its leader, known as “The Prophet.”

A Stopover in Venice Kathryn Walker – Romance, art history, mystery and Venice!

Testimony Anita Shreve – A prestigious boarding New England boarding school is rocked by a sexually explicit videotape that includes several students.

Too Close to Home Linwood Barclay – In a quiet suburb, in a house only one door away, a family is murdered for no apparent reason.

 What Happened to Anna K. Irina Reyn – An inventive, modern-day retelling of Anna Karenina takes place in Queens, Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Whiskey Rebels David Liss – Ethan Saunders, a former spy for Washington during the Revolution, follows a trail that leads him to Alexander Hamilton and to the rebellious whiskey-makers who are fiercely opposed to taxation.

The Widows of Eastwick John Updike – Alexandra, Jane and Sukie return to the town of Eastwick and find themselves dealing with the legacy of their evil deeds

New CDs – November 2008

Richelle

 

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.

New Releases on DVD – November 2008

Richelle

Get Smart

When the headquarters of the U.S. spy agency CONTROL is attacked and the identities of its agents are compromised, the Chief has no choice but to promote his analyst Maxwell Smart, who has dreamed of working in the field. Smart will do whatever it takes to thwart the latest plot for world domination by KAOS. Cast: Steve Carell, Anne Hathaway, Dwayne Johnson, Alan Arkin, Terence Stamp, James Caan. Rated PG-13

 

Hellboy II

The fate of mankind hangs in the balance when a ruthless prince awakens an unstoppable army of creatures to wage war with the human world. It’s up to Hellboy and his team of paranormal outcasts to face off with the forces of darkness in ultimate battle of good versus evil. Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, Jeffrey Tambor, Seth MacFarlane, John Hurt. Rated PG-13. Based on the Dark Horse comic book created by Mike Mignola.

 

Kung Fu Panda

Po works in his family’s noodle shop while dreaming the day away about becoming a Kung Fu master. His dreams soon become reality when he is unexpectedly chosen to join the world of Kung Fu and study along side his idols. Before they know it, the vengeful and treacherous snow leopard Tai Lung is headed their way. It is now up to Po to defend everyone from the oncoming threat. Voice of Po: Jack Black. Audience MPAA rating: PG; for sequences of martial arts action.

 

Tropic Thunder

When three of Hollywood’s biggest stars head into Vietnam to shoot a war movie, they find that the action becomes much more real than any of them expected. Cast:Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Steve Coogan, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride, Brandon T. Jackson, Bill Hader, Nick Nolte. Rated R

More New DVDs: TV Series and Feature Length Films – November 2008

Richelle

Damages

Patty Hewes, the nation’s most revered and most reviled litigator, and her ambitious protégée, Ellen Parsons, become embroiled in a class action lawsuit targeting Arthur Frobisher, one of the country’s wealthiest CEOs. As Patty battles Frobisher and his attorney, Ellen learns what it takes to win at all costs. Cast: Glenn Close, Rose Byrne, Ted Danson. Not rated.

The Dark Crystal

Jen, a Gelfling (one of the last survivors of the elfin-like race), is told of a prophecy by his master, a wise and gentle mystic. Jen sets to the task of returning the crystal shard to the all powerful Dark Crystal, making it whole again, and restoring light to the world. Voices: Jim Henson, Kathryn Mullen, Frank Oz, Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire. (1982) Rated PG.

Labyrinth

A teenage girl’s baby brother is kidnapped by the King of the Goblins; in order to rescue him she must navigate a devilish labyrinth. Cast: David Bowie, Jennifer Connelly, Toby Froud, Shelley Thompson, Christopher Malcolm, Natalie Finland, Shari Weiser, Brian Henson, Ron Mueck, Rob Mills, Dave Goelz, David Alan Barclay, David Shaughnessy. (1986) Not Rated

The Sally Lockhart Mysteries: The Shadow in the North

Sally Lockhart has started her own financial consulting business. When her client loses a fortune from the unexpected collapse of a shipping line, Sally is determined to find out why so many of their ships have mysteriously vanished without a trace. Cast: Billie Piper, Jared Harris, J.J. Feild, Matt Smith, David Harewood, Hayley Atwell, John Standing, Julian Rhind-Tutt. A Masterpiece Mystery! Production of WGBH Boston and the BBC. Hosted by Alan Cumming. Not Rated.

Sleepers

Sentenced to the Wilkinson School for boys, four pals are mistreated at will by a cadre of sadistic guards. 15 years later, they have an unexpected opportunity for revenge. Cast: Kevin Bacon, Robert De Niro, Dustin Hoffman, Jason Patric, Brad Pitt. (1996) Rated R

Christmas CDs – 2008

Richelle

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.