America’s choirboy, Josh Groban, has returned to light up the hearts of music fans once again with his new album, “Illuminations.”

The 13-track album, released on Nov. 15th is the fifth album for the classical pop star. “Illuminations” is Groban’s first album in three years, following his Christmas album, “Noel,” which was the top selling album of 2007.

Groban, who is most known for “You Raise Me Up,” has brought a slightly different sound to his new album, “Illuminations.” Groban made an unpredictable choice of producer for the album.  He teamed up with Rick Rubin, known for producing music for the Beastie Boys, Metallica, and other rock artists, who are far from the sound of the sweet, beautiful ballads, which are typical of Groban.

Despite the different choice of producer, loyal Josh Groban fans will not be disappointed by “Illuminations” as it is full of songs that sound similar to past albums. Nothing can change the beautiful baritone of Groban’s voice, which truly illuminates his music. The instrumentals of this album seem to be more toned down than in previous albums, so Groban’s voice can truly be appreciated.  This album is also more personal and displays Groban’s emotions, as he co-wrote most of the tracks.

Groban’s personal touch can be seen from the start of the album, which begins with a prelude called “The Wandering Kind.” The all-instrumental tune has a mix of Irish, Italian, and French sounds and it is based on a melody that Groban created when he was 12 years old.

The prelude leads into a song that locals can appreciate. “Bells of New York City” is a song dedicated to one of Groban’s favorite places.   The song describes an overview of a park during the winter and the line “the bells of New York City tell me not to go” is repeated. Groban followed his own lyrics and decided to stay in New York. During the summer, he moved from Los Angeles, to an apartment in New York City that overlooks Central Park.

“Illuminations” contains powerful ballads, which Groban is notorious for. ‘Hidden Away” is a ballad that he chose as his first single. His latest single, “Higher Window,” is also a big piano ballad. Groban is also known for his love songs.  Beautiful songs such as “Galileo,” “If I Walk Away,” and “Love Only Knows” satisfy the ears of romantics.

Like in past albums by Groban, “Illuminations” contains songs in different languages. The first is an Italian ballad called “L’Ora Dell’Addio.” There is a slow French song called “Au Jardin Des Sans- Pourquoi,” which is written by famous lyricist, Rufus Wainwright.  “Voce Existe en Mim” is a Portuguese song with a powerful percussion background.  Although Groban cannot speak most of these languages, he sings them as if he is fluent, accents included.

The album has a powerful ending. One of the last songs, ‘War at Home,” is an emotional song that Groban found his inspiration for after visiting a veteran’s hospital.  This is followed by a gospel tune with more harmonies than lyrics, called “London Hymn.” The last piece is a powerful song called “Straight to You,” which is a cover of a ’92 song by goth-rocker Nick Cave.

Aside from putting out an album, Groban has been keeping busy with other projects. He has currently been doing a mini-tour at small venues around the country. Groban has also been doing some acting. He had a guest role on the popular television show, “Glee,” and he will be making a cameo appearance in the movie “Crazy, Stupid Love” with Steve Carell, due in theaters in April 2011.