English Music Reviews - November 23, 2006

Rudebox
Robbie Williams
Not everything on this album is the Robbie Williams we're used to, but that's not to say you should diss this album. Over a few repeated listens, it grows on you – big time.

Unlike the other albums with anthemic tracks and sweeping ballads, Rudebox is mainly Eurodance and Britpop (with a French track thrown in the mix).

While almost everyone should know title track and first single Rudebox by now, the rest of the album deserves equal fanfare.

Listen out for the hilarious cover of Manu Chao's Bongo Bong (King of the Bongo) in Bongo Bong/Je Ne T'Aime Plus. Also the two Pet Shop Boys produced tracks are fun listens. The first is She's Madonna, which is a tribute to the always outrageous singer, which is later followed by We're The Pet Shop Boys.

While some may find this album a bit camp, we at e+ totally fell in love with it. Seems to us that no matter what the Robster does, he does it in style.

The Rose Vol. 2: Music inspired by 2Pac's poetry
various artistes
Just because he's on the cover doesn't mean Tupac Shakur is making music from beyond. The Rose is a collection of songs made by artistes who were inspired by Tupac's life and poetry. Most outstanding on the album are Bone Thugs N Harmony's Power Of The Smile, Ludacris' recitation of an original Tupac poem In the Depths of Solitude and Memphis Bleek's Life Through My Eyes which features Tupac on vocals.

Danity Kane
Danity Kane
What makes Danity Kane unique is the fact that they are a reality TV band, handpicked by none other than Diddy himself. Of course, the music's not bad either, if you're into the whole pop/R&B scene. Fans of the show Making the Band will enjoy the album's complete versions of One Shot, Hold Me Down, Ride For You and Sleep On It, songs that were only showcased on TV. Danity Kane are one of those debut bands that's worth shelling out your hard-earned cash for.

Listennn: The Album
Terror Squad Presents DJ Khaled
You don't really need to know who DJ Khaled is to enjoy this album. Put it in your CD player, blast the volume, roll your windows down and cruise down the streets to hard-edged rap numbers such as the Khaled produced Problem (which features Beanie Sigel and Jadakiss on vocals) and Grammy Family (with Kanye West, John Legend and Consequence).