Album Reviews

Whitney Houston

`I Look to You'

(SonyBMG)

There used to be a time when Whitney Houston reigned as queen of the pop world, but she was dethroned after her disastrous marriage to Bobby Brown and a dearth of hit songs. Now, Houston is attempting a comeback with her first new album in seven years.

Houston worked with some of today's hottest stars ― R. Kelly wrote some of her songs, including the ballad ``I Look to You,'' and Alicia Keys penned the catchy ``Million Dollar Bill.'' She also sings the duet ``Like I Never Left'' with Akon. Overall, the album's good, but it lacks the fiery, show-stopping power ballads for which Houston was known.

― Cathy Rose A. Garcia

Original Soundtrack

`Fame'

(Universal Music)

The remake of ``Fame'' is about to hit screens this month. The film has a cast of young new faces, and the soundtrack is throbbing with fresh energy and excitement. It offers a mix of hip-hop, R&B and dance music.

The theme song ``Fame,'' originally sung by Irene Cara, is given a modern update by the film's lead actress Naturi Naughton. Naughton also sings her rendition of ``Out Here on My Own. '' Other notable tracks include actress Megan Mullally's ``You Took Advantage of Me'' and Asher Book's soulful renditions of ``Ordinary People'' and ``Someone to Watch Over Me.'' If the soundtrack is any indication, the film is something to watch out for.

Various Artists

`Music for Reading'

Anyone who's tried to concentrate on reading a book and failed had better pick up a copy of this new two-disc compilation. As the title suggests, the songs on this album are the perfect accompaniment when you're reading a book. The first disc offers sweet and sad ballads from Westlife, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Ben Folds, Kelly Clarkson and Sara Bareilles.

Instrumental tracks by Andre Gagnon, Yanni, Jim Brickman, Herbie Hancock and The Dave Brubeck Quartet are on the second disc. The songs have been picked well, and provide a calm and soothing soundtrack for anyone reading a book or just wanting to relax.