I’m not gonna lie: I was super excited for this week’s latest releases. Not because I love The Fray (though I do), and not because Country’s hottest star was out again (though he is), but because Melinda Doolittle was finally making her mark on the music industry.

Although, the other two weren’t too shabby either…

The Fray- The Fray

It’s been four long years since the Fray’s first release, How to Save a Life. But if you’re a fan of The Fray, then you would probably say their new self-titled album is worth the wait. The Fray is one of those bands with a distinct sound. Many of their songs may sound the same, with their slow starts and instrumental buildups, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. If you like them, of course. After one listen-through of The Fray’s new album, I was already getting the songs stuck in my head. They’re not extremely complex tracks, but they’re catchy and easy to pick up. It’s also the perfect CD for when you’re going through a break-up; even “Happiness” is enough to depress you: “Happiness damn near destroys you/breaks your faith to pieces on the floor.” OK, then. But that’s The Fray for you and, frankly, that’s why I like them. Read More »

I’m especially excited about this week’s new music releases because it’s January and I’m cold. And all three of this week’s albums are the kind that make you want to crawl under the covers with a mug of hot chocolate and stay for the weekend. When you emerge on Monday morning after listening, you’ll be ready to face a few more months of winter weather. Read More »

The year is getting off to a slow start music-wise, that doesn’t mean there’s not tons and tons to look forward to in 2009 (trust me, there is). After all, it’s only been 2 weeks. But slow does not mean great music isn’t being released.

This week’s new releases were mostly unfamiliar to me – and totally memorable – and I’m super excited that I got to discover some new music. Here’s to hoping 2009 is filled with lots more new bands and jams, in addition to new releases from old favorites. Read More »