Weekly Music Update: May 6, 2008

This week was an interesting one in the music industry. We saw new releases from Gavin DeGraw, Clay Aiken, and Tokio Hotel, as well as new singles from Coldplay and Jason Mraz and Maroon 5. What a week!

I was very impressed by the Gavin DeGraw album, especially its lead single, "In Love With A Girl." It's catchy enough to keep you listening, but its not just another infectiously annoying pop-song. The whole album is strong, but nothing blows me away. However, I do recommend it if you've been a Gavin fan in the past.

Here's the single I'm talking about:


Clay Aiken released his new album, "On My Way Here" this week. I'll be honest - I am not at a fan by any means, but the CD doesn't disappoint. It's solid, but it certainly is not a must-get.

Tokio Hotel kind of came out of no where the past few weeks, and their new album entitled "Scream" surprised me. The young group from Germany seems to have hit something big with their lead single, "Ready Set Go," but similarly to other punk/pop releases recently, it leaves the listener hanging for the remaining tracks. It's not my favorite genre, but if you are into that - by all means check it out. If nothing else, take a listen to the single.

The singles this week blew me away! Coldplay and Jason Mraz both hinted at new albums this week. Jason's new album comes out next tuesday and its going to be amazing from what I have seen so far. He pre-release 3 or 4 tracks on iTunes and they were all fantastic. Coldplay also showed off two tracks from their forthcoming album due in June. Maroon 5 released a remix of their hit, "If I Never See Your Face Again" featuring Rihanna this week as well, and if there is anything I want to bash in this update - it's going to be the decision to put these two artists together. Maroon 5 has officially sold out, and it's really too bad because Songs of Jane was so good. If you want to see what I mean, take a listen to the remix. I understand why they did it, but its disappointing to a see a band with so much talent make that kind of choice.

Check back next week for another update!