Album reviews

Rod Stewart

The soulman Rod Stewart has released the fifth and final instalment of his American songbooks with classics such as Fly Me To The Moon, That Old Black Magic and What A Difference A Day Makes.
 
Having already sold seventeen million copies worldwide with the first four volumes, fans of the series will definitely enjoy the new one. His voice, may not sound like what it was during his heyday, nevertheless the man strikes the right notes with his fans. Also there doesn't seem to be anything new in any of the tracks. Even so, it's a great album for your collection!

The Script

The release of their first single We Cry in 2008 secured enough airplay to secure a top slot in the top 20 of the UK singles charts, and its follow-up The Man Who Can't be Moved charted at Number 2 less than six months later. With an impressive record like that, you can't take this group lightly.

However, their latest offering doesn't quite make the cut. It's got the same mixture of melodies telling stories of break-ups and make-ups. The best moment is perhaps If You Ever Come Back, not for the scary rap, but for the sweet lines in the song!

David Archuleta

David Archuleta, who rose to fame as the runner-up on the seventh season of American Idol, has released his third album, The Other Side of Down. It is seriously an impressive effort and although it showcases the singer's youthful side it sounds a lot more mature. The album opens with the upbeat Other Side of Down, a song with a catchy chorus. The album is diverse, but at the same time, structured. Cool guitar patterns and dance beats makes this album fun to listen to. Worth a try!

The gift

Haunting! That's the emotion you feel when listening to Susan Boyle's voice again after her captivating debut album I Dreamed a Dream.

Her smooth soprano is so suited for an album like this that it's takes you to a different world.

The album is a very heart-warming affair and has seasonal tracks, covers, touching string arrangements and impressive accompaniment from the choirs. Each song is delivered with delicacy and emotion.

The permeating You Hear What I Hear? reminds you of how exceptional a singer Boyle is. She takes even a song that is as classic and overdone as O Holy Night to a different level. The other tracks in the collection are for the most part Christmas classics. All of them are sung with such reverence that they sound sweet and pure.