Jonathan Ansell – Forever (Universal) ****

Jonathan's operatic repertoire of popular and classical songs are given beautiful arrangements, and his maturing tenor voice does full justice to this interesting selection.

Outstanding classical tracks include a rousing and stirring Libiamo, the relaxing and tuneful Aranjuez, and a towering performance of the much-loved Nessun Dorma.

A reminder of his days as a member of X-Factor pop-opera group G4 are recollected when The Queen classic Who Wants To Live Forever is given some spectacular treatment, and a seasonal touch is added with a haunting version of Oh Holy Night.

A dazzling album that will be cherished by many.

STEPHEN TATE, 64, buyer, Odsal, Bradford

Q -Tip – The Renaissance (Island/Universal) *

Rap, hip-hop: they’re supposed to be the musical embodiment of emotion, and if that is so, then why do I come away from Q-Tip’s new album feeling nothing?

My major complaint isn’t that the album is bad; but rather it’s boring.

When you listen to the tracks on his album you know there is some talent, some potential hiding behind the dull, unimaginative sound blasting through the speakers but it fails to materialise, and what is clear, is that the former lead singer of A Tribe Called Quest still has a long way to go to reach his former glory.

CHARLOTTE McCALLUM, 17, student, Bradford