Adele: In a league of her own

True talent defies all stereotypes or standards. It doesn’t have to look like it just walked off the pages of a Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. True talent doesn’t have to be the paparazzi’s favorite target. True talent doesn’t have to hide behind vanity. True talent is Adele, and with the singer’s latest album, “21,” true talent has returned.

Playing for the king

This year, The Decemberists are back with a brand new album titled “The King is Dead.” No, it’s not a tribute album to Michael Jackson. Instead, it’s an intelligent, well-thought-out, folk-infused album that seeks the attention of the sensible, intellectual listener, rather than the pop-culture-starving masses.