Now That's What I Call Music! 18  (Audio CD) 
by Various Artists

Those who enjoy the adventurous eclecticism of traditional Top 40 radio should welcome this diverse, 20-track compilation of some of 2004's most memorable hits. Anchored by U2's energetic return to roots, "Vertigo" and Gwen Stefani's rock-of-the-80's-channeling solo breakthrough "What Are You Waiting For," it goes on to dish up everything from the teeny-pop angst of Lindsey Lohan's "Rumors" to the further adventures of Mr. Dizzle, Snoop Dogg himselfizzle (with an assist from Pharrell), on the typically laidback groove of "Drop It Like It's Hot" and the unlikely, country-urban fusing duet of Nelly and Tim McGraw on "Over and Over." The collection continues that contemporary R&B bent via hits like Omarion's "O," Ashanti's "Only U" and John Legend's "Used to Love U." Yet it also makes room for performances as disparate as Howie Day's emotive, adult-alternative standout "Collide," Hoobastank's slick Cali-pop, the modern rock of Chevelle and Three Days Grace and Lenny Kravitz chunky-rhythmed "Lady." Frickin' A serves up a faithful cover of Rick Springfield's "Jessie's Girl" that preserves the infectious schlock-charm of the 80's original, while the spunky pop-punk of Canadian Skye Sweetnam's "Tangled Up in Me" and Australian Keith Urban's '04 contempo-country standout "You're My Better Half" close the anthology out on a upbeat, international note. --Jerry McCulley