Album Reviews

Usher `Here I Stand' SonyBMG

The hotly awaited new album from Usher has finally reached the hands of fans. As confirmed with the previously released single, ``Love In This Club,'' his fifth studio album is ready to preoccupy the hearts of listeners.

It features flamboyant guest appearances from Jay-Z, will.i.am, Beyonce and Lil Wayne.

The intro first catches the ears with his sultry and passionate vocals, then following the second track, ``Love In This Club,'' ``What's Your Name'' featuring will. I.am is a dance tune mixed with his signature rap, along with strong beats and Usher's trademark vocals.

``Best Thing'' is a hip-hop track featuring Jay-Z with rich bouncing rhythms, while ``His Mistakes'' presents heartbreaking melodic tunes with his doleful vocals.

- Chung Ah-young