Album Drop: This Week’s New Releases, From Mariah Carey To Karen O

It’s new release Tuesday, so it’s time to take the latest tunes for a spin. This week, Mariah Carey continues to emancipate Mimi, Karen O knows where the wild things are, the Avett Brothers steal our hearts, Paramore makes us yawn, and Dizzee Rascal gets us dancing real funky at our desks. So, let’s get into the groove, after the jump.

Mariah Carey, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel
First of all, can I just say how glad I am that Mariah Carey is off her kick of naming albums things like Glitter, Rainbow and Butterfly? In that era, this album surely would have been called “Angel” and wouldn’t have had nearly the depth. As is, it’s pretty solid, the Eminem-beef-extending first single aside. The word on the street is that Mariah decided to release the album today, after the Grammy cut-off, to give Whitney Houston a chance. How nice?

Karen O and The Kids, Where the Wild Things Are
Just one more reason we can’t wait for “Where the Wild Things Are.” Karen O of the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs is in charge of the soundtrack. But don’t expect guitar licks and guttural anthems. Karen O shares singing duties here with a chorus of kids.

The Avett Brothers, I and Love and You
The adorable Avett Brothers (from my home state of North Carolina!) have been picked up by a major label, but we’re still digging their alt-country vibe. And this video for “I and Love and You” is just gorgeous.

Paramore, Brand New Eyes
Tennessee rockers Paramore are back with their third album. And it’s ... more of the same. Actually, it sounds like almost every other Fueled by Ramen band out there. So if you like that, you’ll probably be into this.

Dizzee Rascal, Tongue N’ Cheek
British grime rapper Dizzee Rascal once said, “I want to master music like Bruce Lee mastered martial arts.” This album certainly brings him a little closer to that. I’m dancing in my desk chair listening to it.