Barnes & Noble has announced its January Albums of the Month, highlighting top picks in Rock, Soundtrack, R&B/Soul, and Jazz. The program celebrates diverse musical styles, showcasing both new and classic albums.
January’s Rock Monthly Pick is AM by Arctic Monkeys. The album marked the band’s venture into hip-hop-inspired rhythms and became their most commercially successful release.
“AM, the fifth studio album by English rock band Arctic Monkeys, launched the band’s career into the stratosphere,” says Crissi Bariatti, Senior Merchandise Manager at Barnes & Noble. “Led by heartthrob Alex Turner, with a sultry voice and swagger just as powerful as his songwriting, the band invites you to turn up the volume and join them on their raucous, naughty night out.”
The Soundtrack Monthly Pick is The Matrix score. Featuring artists like Rammstein, Rage Against the Machine, and Rob Zombie, the soundtrack blends metal, rap, hip-hop, and a big beat.
“The blood-pumping electronic score to the Wachowskis’ sci-fi action classic starring Keanu Reeves is peerless,” said Bill Castle, Director of Merchandise. “Celebrating its 25th Anniversary, the album has been released with brand-new cover art and an expanded track list. Take the Blue Pill (B&N Exclusive) Vinyl and find out where the story takes you!”
For R&B/Soul, India.Arie’s Acoustic Soul earned the pick.
“Seminal debut album by Grammy Winning singer-songwriter India.Arie. inspired by James Taylor, but with a Neo-Soul twist reminiscent of Lauryn Hill or Erykah Badu, Acoustic Soul beautifully marries the two styles to create a warm, organic sound all her own,” says Tina Mong, Commercial Strategy Manager.
The Jazz Monthly Pick, Getz/Gilberto, highlights Stan Getz and João Gilberto’s timeless collaboration.
“Considered the record that popularized Bossa Nova worldwide and one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time, Getz/Gilberto is the groundbreaking collaboration between American saxophonist Stan Getz and Brazilian guitarist João Gilberto,” comments Bariatti. “Featuring the classic track ‘The Girl from Ipanema,’ this album is the soundtrack to your lazy Sunday morning or chilled-out dinner party.”
Barnes & Noble’s Albums of the Month program spotlights influential music, celebrating artists from past and present. Shop them all here.
