Album Reviews

One Republic

`Waking Up'

(Universal Music Korea)

One Republic, best known for their breakout hit with Timbaland ``Apologize,'' is back with their second album. The band haven't seemed to tinker much with their formula for success, which is perhaps why ``Waking Up'' has shades of their debut album, ``Dreaming Out Loud.''

There's a lot of pop-rock tracks like ``Made for You,'' ``Everybody Loves Me,'' and the title track, ``Waking Up.'' Vocalist Ryan Tedder, who has written songs for Kelly Clarkson, Beyonce, Leona Lewis and Westlife, comes up with good, radio-friendly material. ``Marching On'' seems poised to be this album's ``Apologize,'' even receiving the same remix treatment from Timbaland. The standard version includes two extra songs, including a live version of Tears for Fears' ``Shout,'' while the deluxe version includes a CD of five additional songs. While it doesn't quite break new ground, it's still a good sophomore effort.

― Cathy Rose A. Garcia

OK Go

`Of the Blue Colour of the Sky'

(Warner Music Korea)

OK Go's third album, ``Of the Blue Colour of the Sky,'' is a fun mix of disco, funk, electronic and pop music, with obvious influences from Prince. It opens with the irresistible ``WTF?'' in which lead singer Damian Kulash even sounds like Prince with his falsetto voice. There are some catchy 80s-inspired tracks like ``White Knuckles'' and ``End Love,'' but also slow ones like ``Skyscrapers'' and the lovely acoustic number ``Last Leaf.'' The rock anthem ``All is Not Lost'' will likely be a favorite at OK Go's concerts.

The Chicago-based band doesn't shy away from experimenting with a new sound, and it obviously works with this album. But one thing remains the same _ OK Go's penchant for innovative eye-catching music videos. Be sure to watch the colorful, trippy video for ``WTF?''

Adam Lambert

`For Your Entertainment'

(SonyBMG)

Adam Lambert may not have won American Idol season 8, but he has certainly generated more publicity than the winner, Kris Allen, due to his flamboyant personality and a controversial performance at the American Music Awards. He lives up to the hype with his solid debut album, ``For Your Entertainment.''

Lambert mixes up different musical genres, obviously keen on not being pigeon-holed into just one. He collaborated with some of the best in the industry, including Muse's Matthew Bellamy (``Soaked''), Weezer's Rivers Cuomo (``Pick U Up''), Linda Perry (``A Loaded Smile''), and Pink and Max Martin (``Whataya Want From Me''). His personality shines throughout the album, especially in ``Fever,'' penned by Lady Gaga. ``Time for Miracles,'' which was initially on the ``2012'' soundtrack, is also included as a bonus track.