The Rango soundtrack was released this week. Directed by Gore Verbinski and starring Johnny Depp – in voice, at least – the animated film features original songs by Los Lobos and a soundtrack by Hans Zimmer, also the composer for major motion pictures The Dark Night, Inception, and Pirates of the Caribbean.
A new American Idol compilation is also out this week: American Idol: 10th Anniversary – The Hits Volume 1 includes tracks from Kelly Clarkson, Clay Aiken, Carrie Underwood and Adam Lambert, among others. This first volume includes hit songs from each season’s winners as well as a few fan favorites.
Chicago punk rock band Rise Against unveils their sixth LP this week. Endgame touches upon deeper themes such as Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill.
Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker releases a solo album today. Give the Drummer Some features major artists such as Lil Wayne, Ludacris, Slash, Cypress Hill and Snoop Dogg.
Also launching this week: Rare Bird Alert by bluegrass band Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers, with tracks featuring former Beatle Paul McCartney and the Dixie Chicks. Teen actress Miranda Cosgrove, of iCarly fame, releases a new five-track EP, High Maintenance, and singer-songwriter Bryan Master releases the indie album For People Like Us, featuring Liz Phair.