Album Reviews

Mary J. Blige `Growing Pains' Universal

Top soul diva Mary J. Blige has come back with her eighth album which reflects her painful past, following the most successful album of her career, the triple platinum ``The Breakthrough'' in 2006.

The album is a well-crafted blend of R&B, funk, pop, and strength that can only be perfected by Blige.

The album includes the single ``Just Fine'' which peaked at number 22 on the billboard hot 100, while the second single and opener of the album, ``Work That,'' catches the ears of listeners.

The album with Blige co-writing most of the songs, features guest appearances by Ludacris and Usher with production by The Neptunes, Jazze Pha, Johnta Austin, Neyo, Stargate, Bryan-Michael Cox, Dre and Vidal, Tricky, Dream, and Sean Garrett.

-Chung Ah-young

2008 Grammy Nominees

Universal

The album presents 21 tracks ― a great mixture of rock, pop, R&B, hip-hop, country, and even jazz ― which were all nominated for the 2008 Grammy Awards, which took place Feb. 10.

This album also marks the 50th anniversary of the awards' birth. There are also two tracks from the compilation album ``Instant Karma'' ― one from Green Day and one from U2.

The album includes Amy Winehouse's ``Rehab,'' ``Irreplaceable'' by Beyonce, and ``Candyman'' by Christina Aguilera. Also, Herbie Hancok's ``River,'' Corinne Bailey Rae's ``Like A Star'' and ``Makes Me Wonder'' by Maroon 5, are included.

However, nominees Rihanna and Fergie are missing.