Album Reviews

The Royal Collection Royal Occassions Vol. 1 SonyBMG

Comprising works written for the British royal family, the album celebrates the 60th wedding anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip.

The English Chamber Orchestra, Westminster Abbey Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra among other world-class musicians present tracks that boast the ``Pomp and Circumstance'' of the court. In addition to Elgar's timeless piece, the album features Walton's ``Crown Imperial," which was played during the queen's coronation ceremony in 1953.

The collection possesses a grandiose, festive quality truly befitting the royal occasion, and includes various works by Handel and Mendelssohn with a snippet of operas, like ``Casta diva'' from ``Norma.''

-Lee Hyo-won

Spice Girls `Greatest Hits' SonyBMG

The Spice Girls are back. Even though they're technically not ``girls'' anymore, the Spice Girls are reuniting for a concert tour.

For those who have forgotten, the Spice Girls burst into the pop scene in 1996, with an incredibly catchy song ``Wannabe.'' ``Greatest Hits'' takes you on a trip down memory lane, with hit songs such as ``2 Become 1,'' ``Spice Up Your Life,'' and ``Mama.'' The Spice Girls even came up with two new tracks ``Headlines (Friendship Never Ends)'' and ``Voodoo.'' The album might remind you why the Spice Girls became a worldwide sensation, or make you wonder why they're making a comeback.

-Cathy Rose A. Garcia

Jamie Scott & The Town `Park Bench Theories' Universal

Following in the footsteps of neo-soul singer/songwriters John Mayer, James Morrison and James Blunt, Jamie Scott presents comfortable and soothing songs in his new release, ``Park Bench Theories.''

The album consists of 12 tracks ranging from folk, pop and soul numbers. His first single, ``When Will I See Your Face Again,'' unleashes his dexterous vocals, which are exactly reminiscent of John Mayer, with melodic guitar sounds.

His album unfolds with story-rich tracks and thought-provoking lyrics about life from the opener, ``Runway Train,'' ``Changes,'' ``Shadows,'' and ``Two Men''.

``Lady West'' is an impressive cheerful and rhythmical jazz-tinged song, while ``Standing in The Rain'' gives soulful vocals supported by an attractive piano melody.

-Chung Ah-young