2011 is Sounding Like a Winner

2010 was a great year for music. From John Hiatt and Peter Wolf to Arcade Fire and Kings of Leon, there was a little of something for everyone last year. 2011 looks to be just as interesting. Here's a sampling of noteworthy albums scheduled for the first half of the year.

Collapse Into Now - R.E.M. - I'm willing to forgive 2008's rather lackluster effort Accelerate and give this new title a try. From the sound of the new single Mine Smells Like Honey, they appear to be back on track. (Mar 8)

Angels - The Strokes - Wasn't a fan of the band's last two releases. But since the new one is being called their best since 2001's Is This It, I'll give it a spin. (Mar 22)

How to Be Clairvoyant - Robbie Robertson - The former Band guitarist's first solo album in 13 years (he's been busy supervising music for Martin Scorsese) features Eric Clapton, Steve Winwood and Tom Morello. The first single When the Night Was Young reminds me of his classic 1987 eponymous release. (Apr 5)

So Beautiful or So What - Paul Simon - The ageless singer-songwriter's first studio album in five years; from the sound of the single Getting Ready For Christmas Day, we should be in for another eclectic set of tunes. (Apr 12)

In Your Dreams - Stevie Nicks - Got an early listen to the track Secret Love and it sounds surprisingly good, like a lost nugget from the '80s. Shouldn't be surprised with the Eurythmics' Dave Stewart producing. (May 3)

Songs of Ascent - U2 - Apparently a ton of music remains from the No Line on the Horizon sessions. All I can say is keep it comin'. (Spring)

UPDATE: The Cars will release Move Like This, their first album in 24 years, on May 10.