SATURDAY NEWS WRAP #02

* We love pop when it's promoted like this. Warner Music has sent out a rather excitable email to spruik the burgeoning chart success of 'Release Me' - the debut Aussie single from Swedish songstress Agnes Carlsson. It's raced into the top 50 on the ARIA singles chart this week and going on it's top 30 placing on the iTunes chart, it may very well edge into the top 30 this weekend.
* Sony Music has released details of the forthcoming Rod Stewart album 'Soulbook'. The collection of classic soul covers will feature guest duets with Motown legends Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson, along with two of today's best soul voices in Mary J Blige and Jennifer Hudson. The disc is to be released on November 06.
* Modular Records has announced the signing of 21 year old Sydney artist Jonathan Boulet to their roster. They use the term 'Panavision pop' to describe the youngster's style, with the first single 'A Community Service Announcement' and the album both now available at iTunes.
* Melbourne based singer-songrwiter Leena will join Tim Finn and Andy Bull for their forthcoming shows in Melbourne and Sydney. She'll take to the stage at Sydney's Enmore Theatre on November 06 and at Melbourne's Athenaeum Theatre on November 07.
* Universal Music has sent out a presser about the forthcoming album 'Alma Mater - Songs From The Vatican', which features the voice of Pope Benedict XVI. The composers, Simon Boswell, Stefano Mainetti and Nour Eddine, used a series of Gregorian chants as the starting point for the piece, layering the Pope's words over the top. 'Alma Mater' is due into stores on November 27.
* The gang from Aussie hip hop outfit Bliss 'N' Eso are obviously not content with just their music career anymore, announcing a range of Bliss 'N' Eso branded clothing. There's a selection of hoodies and t-shirts, along with hats and other goodies. Discover the range HERE.
* Boutique Aussie dance label Neon Records have given us a little preview of the rather stomping TV Rock remix of Bertie Blackman's new single 'Byrds Of Prey'. Catch a glimpse HERE.
* And former Destiny's Child songstress Beyonce Knowles, N-Dubz and boy band JLS were the big winners at Wednesday night's MOBO Awards in Glasgow. Beyonce took home the gongs for Best International Artist and Best Video for 'Single Ladies', N-Dubz took home Best UK Act and Best Album, while JLS bagged the Best Newcomer and Best Song awards.