Screaming Bloody Murder
Divorce sure can be a bummer: First Avril Lavigne ditches the fun on her latest; now ex-husband Deryck Whibley leads Sum 41 into heavier territory, attempting to pull a Green Day. But despite a plodding midsection, all is not lost.
CRAIG CAMPBELL
Craig Campbell
On a winning country debut, this Georgian displays a rich baritone and a witty way with a pen on tunes like the sly "I Bought It" and the suggestive "Fish." Elsewhere, songs such as the ballad single "Family Man" will hit you right at home.
MANDISA
What If We Were Real
Like fellow American Idol alum Jennifer Hudson, Mandisa has recently lost a ton of weight, shedding some 100 lbs. Her pipes, though, remain hefty on this inspirational album. But it can get too pop: Take it to church, Mandisa!
RICHARD ASHCROFT
United Nations of Sound
The Verve frontman hooks up with hip-hop producer No I.D. (Jay-Z, Kanye West) on his fourth solo album. While tracks like "America" pack more thump-and even funk-the sounds run out of steam toward the end.
