Lost Highway – Bon Jovi (Universal Music)

While many have labeld Bon Jovi’s tenth studio work as a cross over into country, a close listen reveals that it has been merely inspired by and influenced by country music with a very modern Nashville sound.

The Very Best of the Backstreet Boys – Sony Music (Import)

The Backstreet Boys are coming to India. Every kid is eagerly awaiting the visit. We decided to pick one of their ‘Best of’ collection of major hits which made them the big international sensation they still are. Amazingly put together is a collection of songs that brings back memories from when I was a teen and the guys were at the prime of their career. A must have addition to any music collection.

Hard Candy – Madonna (Warner Bros)

About 25 years after her debut effort, Madonna has continued to produce pop songs that entered uncharted territory each time showcasing a different side of her personality. She has producers and collaborators joining her on this work and they include the likes of Pharrell, Timbaland, and Justin Timberlake who have given their own touch to make Madonna’s music sound like one of their own compositions, but still retaining the Madonna stamp. Lyrically some of the songs have a double meaning if you really listen carefully. Funnily enough its enjoyable.

The Tension and The Spark – Darren Hayes (Sony Music)

Singer / Songwriter Darren Hayes who sold millions of records worldwide between 1997 – 2001 as one half of the multi – platinum duo Savage Garden (with Daniel Jones) and in 2004 came out his second solo effort after 2002’s ‘Spin’.

Trouble – Akon (Universal Music)

Aliaune Akon Thiam better known in music circles as Akon would’ve been just another hip hop artist trying to break ground, but it took him just one song to make him a star overnight. Senegalese – American Akon pays homage to the early hip hop music which influenced him, and on this his debut work, he also includes women, the lack of them or just trouble with them in general as his album name suggests, everything you hear on this album is about himself and his life.

Here for the Party – Gretchen Wislon (Sony Music)

If you want to see a young Sheryl Crow and her young band (yes they look very young) perform in London, this is the DVD to watch. You also get to see Ms. Crow playing the accordion on Strong Enough, and Eric Clapton doing his guitar thing on Ordinary Morning.

Damita Jo – Janet Jackson – (EMI Music)

Multi – million selling pop superstar Janet Jackson is out to tease you in 16 songs of pure pop funk fusion. The album is her 4th with Virgin Records and 8th studio album overall. Janet once again joins forces with longtime friends and creative allies Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis who’ve worked with her since 1986’s ‘Control’.

Room Service – Bryan Adams (Universal Music)

After dabbling in soundtracks, Adams finally settles down in a hotel room and writes out his album. One listen to the album and its pure Adams - adrenaline all the way. Tracks shift from raging guitars to harsh vocals, to skilful drumming, to more down tempo cool melodies and yes sappy and mushy lyrics – its all there.

Rocket Man – The Definitive Hits – Elton John (Universal Music) Rs. 395/-

Launched in celebration of his 60th birthday, the piano man works up a fine collection of toppers from his career, but sadly misses out on some.

Merry Christmas, Baby – Rod Stewart (Universal Music) Rs. 295/-

If you look at the discography of this British singer – songwriter you will find that this is his 28th studio album. The singer who gave us Some Guys have all the luck, Downtown Train, and other such toppers, brings on his first ever Christmas album. If you know how Rod Stewart sounds, and are aware of these songs’ traditional arrangements, then you already know what Merry Christmas, Baby has in store.