New Album Releases December 22, 2009: Eminem, Mary J. Blige

If you're still Christmas shopping, get a lap.  If you're still Christmas shopping because you were hoping something exciting would come out on the last Tuesday before Christmas, better make that two.  I've got my stopwatch and my clipboard.  I'll wait.

While we're waiting, let's break down the few releases worth mentioning.  Mary J. Blige is releasing her ninth studio record, Stronger With Each Tear.  I'm not a Blige effort and titles can be deceiving, but I think I already know which direction that record is going.  Predictable?  Perhaps.  It could still be good.  Even at Christmas, not all surprises are good.

We also have a deluxe edition of Eminem's Relapse.  You get some bonus tracks and remixes.

If that doesn't feel leftover enough, there's yet another Who compilation.  Don't get fooled again.  You probably have everything on this set.  

It's been a pleasure doing your weekly New Album Release column since taking over this summer.  I'm looking forward to continuing onward and forward in 2010.  I'll also be releasing my Best of 2009 in the coming days, so be on the lookout for that.

With that, I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday season.  May it be safe.  May it be whatever it you're looking for.

Mary J. Blige
Stronger with Each Tear

James Brown
The Singles, Vol. 8: 1972-1973

Ray Charles
Sings For Lovers

Eminem
Relapse: Refill

Isaac Hayes
Sings For Lovers

Hurricane Chris
Unleashed

Prince Lasha Ensemble
Insight

Mudvayne
Mudvayne

Original Soundtrack
Nine

Charlie Rich
The Ballads of Charlie Rich

Various Artists
Dim Lights, Thick Smoke and Hillbilly Music: Country & Western Hit Parade 1953

The Who
Greatest Hits [Geffen]