We usually get a mix of major releases and box sets or reissues just in time for holiday shopping. Here are some of the new CD releases for Nov. 23 and 24.

Susan Boyle, “I Dreamed a Dream”

This Brit singer took the world, and most notably Simon Cowell, by storm on “Britain’s Got Talent” competition this summer. She was runner-up

Beyonce, “I Am … Yours. An Intimate Performance a the Wynn Las Vegas”

This CD/DVD is related to the “Sasha Fierce” deluxe reissue with bonus tracks. Not sure how much “bonus” there is though.

James Brown, “The Godfather’s Smackdown: Live!”

This CD/DVD pulls from the late performer’s 1980 U.S. tour. But the title alone might be worth the buy.

Bill Cosby, “Bill Cosby Presents the Cosnarati: State of Emergency”

It’s being touted as a socially conscious rap album. Knowing Cosby’s history, we’re sure it will ruffle at least a few feathers.

Bob Dylan, “Christmas in the Heart”

Holiday music with bonus CD

Lady GaGa, “The Fame Monster (Deluxe Edition)”

This performance artist – in every sense of the term – continues to stir reaction to her avant-garde performances and rule-bending costumes … so much so that she’s releasing her 2008 CD, which is still in heavy radio rotation, with eight bonus tracks. (Coming to Atlanta Dec. 28-29)

Jawbox, “For Your Own Special Sweetheart”

Indie-rock classic from the ‘90s has been out of print now gets deluxe remastered reissue with bonus tracks.

Jay Sean, “All or Nothing”

With a hit single featuring Lil Wayne, we suspect this CD sell well … even if, as a colleague points out, the lyrics are not the greatest.

Jay-Z, “Greatest Hits”

He’s still riding the popularity of the “Blueprint 3” with hits like “New York State of Mind”, “D.O.A” and “Run this Town.” Guess the entrepreneur never misses a money-making beat. (Coming to Atlanta Feb. 27, 2010)

Kraftwerk, “12345678 The Catalogue”

Remastered versions of all eight of the band’s studio albums.

Adam Lambert “For Your Entertainment”

His sexed-up show Sunday at the AMAs sparked heated debate about his idea of “entertainment” but the “American Idol” Season 8 runner-up has surely gotten everyone’s attention.

Rihanna, “Rated R”

Ri-Ri is making the promotional rounds this week including a TV interview in which she finally talked about the violent fight with Chris Brown. By most accounts, her performance on the AMAs this past Sunday left a lot to be desired so we hope the CD does better.

Shakira, “She Wolf”

The Colombian-born singer says her latest CD is really for the single ladies; those “in search for the right man.” Of course Shakira – as well known for her mesmerizing hip-shakes as her uptempo club tracks – has no probs in that area since she’s been with her sweetie for over a decade.

Angie Stone, “Unexpected”

The S.C. native with a home in Atlanta, powerful R&B singer/songwriter (and former love interest of D’Angelo) releases her 5^th studio CD.