Album Reviews

Daughtry

`Leave This Town'

(SonyBMG)

American Idol finalist Chris Daughtry proves his debut album was no fluke, with his band's new album, ``Leave This Town,'' topping the Billboard charts once again.

Daughtry's sophomore effort offers more of the solid rock music featured in their first album. The band collaborated with country star Vince Gill on ``Tennessee Line," and Nickleback's Chad Kroeger on ``No Surprise."

The album is full of clean and very mainstream rock that should please many, but perhaps bore those who have heard it all before.

― Cathy Rose A. Garcia

Various Artists

`Festival Generation: Night'

(Universal Music)

Festival Generation (www.festivalgeneration.com) offers music festival favorites like Travis' ``Closer,'' Oasis' ``Wonderwall,'' MGMT's ``A Time to Pretend,'' The Crystal Method's ``Cherry Twist'' and Fat Boy Slim's ``Right Here, Right Now.''

The album is packaged with a simple, fun guide to music festivals around the world, including Glastonbury, Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza.

There are some curious choices, like Black Eyed Peas' ``My Humps'' and James Morrison's ``Please Don't Stop the Rain,'' but overall, this CD will get you in the mood for a rock festival.

Kimmaster

Renaissance

(Sony BMG)

Guitarist and singer Kimmaster's fourth album ``Renaissance'' offers a breath of fresh air to the sluggish album market.

Famous for his literary lyrics and distinctive sounds, Kimmaster proves once again that he's one of the best R&B guitarists in the business.

The album is a perfect chance to get to know the artist, even if you have never heard of him, as it comes with two CDs: One with new songs and another with his best numbers. ``1 Shot'' and ``OK4'' are funky tracks perfect for the summer vacation season, while ``31'' is a slow ballad that makes you really listen to the lyrics.

― Han Sang-hee