Kelly Clarkson and Taylor Hicks Still Riding the Wave

Nice hair.

American Idols make new music.

I don't know about you, but I think my life would suck without Kelly Clarkson. I mean, I'd figure out a way to go on, sure, but how would I properly emote? Certainly not at high volumes, with heartfelt lyrics, pained faces, and my besties. That delightful, and much desired (c'mon, let's be honest, ladies), combination of drama is pure Kelly, which is why I'm delighted she's releasing her new album this week.

All I Ever Wanted is being billed as the return of old Kelly (i.e. the Breakaway Kelly, not the I'm-bustin'-out-on-my-own My December Kelly). For the record, I was a fan of Kelly's attempt to do her own thing and thought she - and all her assets - were unfairly maligned. At any rate, as you can probably tell from the album's first single, "My Life Would Suck Without You," Kelly is gettin' back in touch with her emo rock-pop anthem side. Her fans, and her record label, are no doubt appreciative.

Another American Idol, silver-haired singer, Taylor Hicks, releases his latest, The Distance, this week. The first single off the album, "What's Right Is Right," is classic Hicks - smooth crooning with a heavy dose of R&B and a splash of soft rock. Yes, I know the term "soft rock" is like the anti-Viagra, but don't be haters. Taylor dwells in that warm, comfy, place that plenty of people don't mind settling into. And, no, that's not a euphemism. Get your minds out of the gutter.

Back with me? Ok, the snazzy jazzy singer, Madeleine Peyroux, comes out with her new album, Bare Bones this week. Peyroux, who has covered artists like Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan, had a hand in writing each of the 11 original songs on the album. Not surprisingly, this gives the work a more personal, intimate feel, which is complimented by Peyroux's lovely, lush, seductive voice, which has often garnered her comparisons to Bille Holiday.