Of all the artists launching a new album this week, Rihanna is probably most relieved, after repeated online leaks of her songs, to finally have her new Loud album out on the market.
In addition to Rihanna, there are a variety of new releases this week – something to suit just about everyone on your gift list – young or old.
This week, you can look for American hip-hop artist, Nelly, and his sixth studio album 5.0, Bruce Springsteen’s The Promise, Kid Rock’s Born Free and, with Christmas approaching, Glee: The Music – The Christmas Album.
Also in the spirit of the season, check out Annie Lennox: A Christmas Cornucopia, Pink Martini: Joy to The World, and even Jackie Evancho, just 10 years-old, and fan favourite for many America’s Got Talent viewers, launched O Holy Night, her first mini-album hot on the heels of her show appearance. Another TV show winner, Lee DeWyze, of American Idol fame, releases his album Live It Up.
Continuing with some more big names: Norah Jones launches … Featuring Norah Jones, a fifth career album, and popular country singer Keith Urban who, with Get Closer, will always be known in Canada as the husband of Nicole Kidman.
Canadian Loreena McKennit releases The Wind That Shakes the Barley, while American Josh Groban issues his fifth studio album, Illuminations. Robbie Williams is reunited with British pop group Take That for new album, Progress – and let’s hope it is.