It's another good week for hip hop and the chance to explore in some other genres that border pop including country and metal.
1) Ghostface - Fishscale
Ghostface, perhaps the most talented lyricist from rap's Wu-Tang Clan, has returned with his first album in 2 years. Critical buzz on this album is very positive.
2) T.I. - King
Timed to coincide with his movie debut in ATL, T.I.'s latest should please the legions of southern rap fans.
3) Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Show Your Bones
Karen O and company have mellowed out a bit here, but any new Yeah Yeah Yeahs album is a cause for celebration.
4) Atreyu - Death Grip on Yesterday
The music of these Hawthorne Heights label mates leans heavy in the metal direction to go with their hardcore and emo vocalizing.
5) Tim McGraw - Greatest Hits Volume 2
The past 6 years have been good to Tim McGraw commercially. If you prefer the hits without the filler, this album is for you.
6) Rammstein - Rosenrot
German band Rammstein are one of the most unique bands in the heavy metal world. This new album changes nothing from their formula. It is just more of what their fans love.
7) People in Planes - As Far as the Eye Can See
People in Planes are an indie pop group from Wales that have earned a slow-going buzz from music industry insiders.
8) Shakira - Oral Fixation, Vol. 2 (Expanded Version)
If you don't have Shakira's latest yet, here's your chance to buy it with current hit "Hips Don't Lie" added.
9) Do or Die - Get That Paper
The third big rap release of the week comes from Chicago-based group Do or Die. Their last album D.O.D. debuted inside the top 40 of the album chart.
10) Matt Costa - Songs We Sing
Matt Costa's music will please fans of such classic pop/rock stars as Van Morrison and Donovan. This album was released originally last year to strong critical acclaim. It is re-released this week on Jack Johnson's Brushfire Records.
