Rock: Tokio Hotel, "Humanoid"
German glam-rock heroes Tokio Hotel have made a name for themselves writing emo-infused choruses dubbed over pop-rock-ish guitar riffs. The English version of their latest release, "Humanoid," is no different. The record's first single, "Automatic," will have tweens around the globe bouncing to its infectious choral hook.
Pop: Backstreet Boys, "This Is Us"
Yes, that's right. Backstreet's back, again. This time around they've given in to the phenomenon that is Auto-tune and peppered their gushy love lyrics with drum machines that sound like they were pulled straight from Lady Gaga's beat lab. When all is said and done, "This Is Us" is more nostalgic than anything else.
Dance: Air, "Love 2"
Fully electronic and fully eclectic from beginning to end, "Love 2" is by far this week's funkiest release. Throw on some headphones and see if you can catch the ambient rainforest sounds creeping their way into a track or two. The refreshingly down-tempo stylings of the French electro-duo's ninth release are as soothing as they are entertaining. "Love 2" is definitely worth a listen.
Country: Brandi Carlile, "Give Up the Ghost"
Brandi Carlile's third release mixes soulful acoustic ballads with alt-rock tracks that make it a well-balanced album overall. From past to present, "Give Up the Ghost" will appeal to fans of Johnny Cash, Sara Bareilles and The Killers alike.
