CD REVIEW: The Black Keys "Brothers"

From obscurity to the center of it all, this year the Black Keys have become the "it" guys for blues rock. Taking over the slot once filled by the White Stripes, it seems that dirty bluesy rhythms, crunchy guitars, and straightforward stripped down syncopated drum beats are all any one needs to get by. They will make an appearance on SNL in the new year and they have been prominently featured in Cadillac car ads, so it's a definite thing that they have been or will be part of your life. The first five songs on the album drag you in and rock your world. "Tighten Up" has been all over radio and shows off the rock edge of the band, with emphasis on Dan Auerbach's mad guitar skills. "Howlin' For You" might be the bands best ever, with a killer hook, catchy lyrics, and great beat (not to mention the fact that it's everywhere on TV). "She's Long Gone" and "Next Girl" feature some of the guys' most clever lyrics to date. Who knew that two guys could make so much noise and make it sound so beautiful.

CD REVIEW: Black Eyed Peas "The Beginning"

Black Eyed Peas have morphed an incredible amount over the course of their careers. In the middle of it all, they added Fergie and took their conscious hip hop into a whole new direction, gaining a wide variety of new fans and taking the pop world by storm. This new album continues right where the last one left off and takes the band further into the realm of electronic pop and hip hop. The entire album is danceable, and features Fergie and Will.i.am in much more prominent lead rolls. They continue to push the envelope and connect to their fans through familiarity (their first single, "The Time (Dirty Bit)" features a hook that is stripped right from the film "Dirty Dancing"). Black Eyed Peas always have something new up their sleeve and it seems that they are keeping the fans always on their toes.

CD REVIEW: Various Artists "Yo Gabba Gabba: Music Is Awesome, Vol. 2"

Back with their second installment, the gang at Yo Gabba Gabba has put together another great collection of original tunes by the cast and their "Super Music Friends." This time Weezer, Jimmy Eat World, Hot Hot Heat, and MGMT add their spin to some new kids tunes, and kids will recognize more of their favorite cast singalongs. Long car rides, trips to the doctor, and rainy afternoons inside will all get a huge relief with the broadcasting of this album, and kids will fall in love with some great indie rock bands in the process. Mom and dad can rest assured they won't be pulling their hair out while their children enjoy some music time with this CD.

CD REVIEW: Various Artists "Yo Gabba Gabba: Music Is Awesome"

Yo Gabba Gabba is not one of those kids shows that only kids can love. The thing that sets it apart from every other kids television program is that each episode features special guest appearance by well known celebrity personalities, as well as music by some of the best bands (indie and otherwise) in music. The bands showcase their fun side by performing a kids song in their own unique styles. This album combines some of those selections by bands such as The Shins, The Roots, Chromeo, and Money Mark with music sung by the lovable characters. Parents and kids will be able to enjoy this music together and the kids will surely grow up learning that great music doesn't have to come from the Disney Channel.

CD REVIEW: Various Artists "This Warm December: A Brushfire Holiday, Vol. 1"

This album is by far one of the best collections of Christmas music out there. Featuring a track from each of the artists on Jack Johnson's Brushfire Records, and two from Jack himself, the album boasts an incredible array of original, traditional, and covered Christmas music. The entire disc is mostly mellow, but its perfect for the season, even if the title suggests a lack of snow and the probability of no white Christmas.

CD REVIEW: Various Artists "Ten Out Of Tenn Christmas"

The Ten Out Of Tenn compilations are always full of great music by great artists from Nashville, Tennessee who don't always get the love they deserve for their talent and hard work. Well, the artists who brought us the stellar Vol. 2 of the collection have put together a very cool collection of Christmas music. Produced by K.S. Rhoads, one of the performers on the CD, each Ten Out Of Tenn, Vol. 2 artist contributed either an original Christmas song or their rendition of a Christmas favorite. Altogether, it's a pretty outstanding collection that is sure to keep you in the spirit of the season.

New Release Tuesday

New music out today worth checking out:

• Daft Punk - Tron: Legacy Soundtrack
• The White Buffalo - Prepare For Black & Blue

CD REVIEW: Chris Trapper "It's Christmas Time"

Chris Trapper has always been a storyteller, and is known for showcasing his very down to earth and relatable life stories through his music. This collection does just that, with a bit of a spin: it's all about Christmas. Chris' cunning lyricism shine throughout the entire disc which is both sentimental and comedic at times. Each song tells a story and as a listener it is easy to connect with Chris and his cast of characters. Christmas music like this doesn't come around too often.

CD REVIEW: Sister Hazel "Santa's Playlist"

Rock and roll and Christmas have been going hand in hand for quite a while and Sister Hazel has stepped in to put their stamp on some Christmas classics, as well as give us a few new tunes. They do justice to a lot of our favorite rock Christmas songs, add a bit of reggae flare to on chilly track and prove that Christmas music is supposed to be fun.

CD REVIEW: Tom Freund "X-mas In Texas"

A short little collection of Christmas tunes, Tom Freund's foray into the holiday spirit is wonderful. He brings his vibe to a few originals an a Christmas classic, connecting his holiday warmth and experience with the listener. He's a remarkable songwriter and shows that no matter the subject or arena, he is able to deliver.