NewNowNext music dispatch: Xiu Xiu, R.E.M., Janet and more!

Every Friday our friend Colin over at NewNowNext tips us off to what's hot in popular music. Enjoy this family-sized dispatch to get you through the next week!

Video of the Week: Xiu Xiu – “I Do What I Want, When I Want”

The queer-led band from San Francisco has been called “experimental” and “challenging,” so if you’re in the mood for something different (Fruit? Vacuum cleaners? Jackass?), check out their new video. Watch it after the break.

Sugababes Video – “Denial”

Now, if you’ve got a sweet tooth (ha!) for the poppiest-of-the-pop, then Sugababes are for you. The British gals indulge their inner models like there’s no tomorrow.

Janet Jackson Video – “Feedback”

We hope you’ve heard Janet’s new song at this point – we can’t stop listening to it! – 'cause she brings the Discipline in this bizarre, cosmic video. Maybe you can tell what’s going on…

New R.E.M. Album Buzz

The R.E.M. trio, including gay front man Michael Stipe, announced their new album, Accelerate; and we’ve got all the info.

Record labels Drop Idol Winners

M.I.A.’s Katharine McPhee may be the latest victim, but at least she didn’t win, right? Major labels have officially dumped two American Idol winners.

New Goldfrapp single – “A&E”

You may think “Ooh La La” when you hear Goldfrapp, but it’s time to think again. Alison has taken a turn for the slow and dreamy with the ballad, “A&E.”