Not too much excitement at the record store this week, as we’re so close to the end of 2008. The only big release that could rival the return of Britney Spears is R&B singer Akon‘s latest, Freedom. However, I think Spears will reign supreme, if the current media blitz is any indication.
Whether you think she’s nuts or could care less about her woes, the pop star has positioned herself as having a comeback with her latest CD and single “Womanizer.” She’s embracing the idea that she was a chaotic mess, and claiming to be past it now. As long as she’s got all the right people behind her and she can stay away from umbrellas and beauty salons, she could be a success story.
Nevermind Sasha Fierce — it’s Beyoncé who shines on this movie soundtrack. She stars as Etta James in the film, so naturally she has her own renditions of “At Last,” “Once in a Lifetime” and “I’d Rather Go Blind” on the new release. Also featured is her younger sister, Solange, with “6 O’Clock Blues.”
Once a highly favored indie band, now The Decemberists are being pushed by their major label in a big way. This is the third release in a monthly series featuring singles by the Colin Meloy-fronted group, which presently includes multi-instrumentalist Jenny Conlee. The Bridesmaid series should hold fans over until the band’s next full-length hits stores in spring 2009.
