Finding that perfect gift for friends and family isn’t always easy, especially if you’re a music fan.

With so many artists releasing new records during the Christmas season, it’s hard to decide which ones your friends will cherish and which ones they’ll end up re-gifting.
Here are the best and worst releases this holiday season has to offer.

The “Heck Yea” List

1. “iSouljaBoyTellem” by Soulja Boy
(release date: Dec. 12)
Didn’t Soulja Boy already “tell us” last year? Either way, as long as there’s a new dance I’m not complaining.

2. “808′s and Heartbreak” by Kanye West
(released Nov. 25)
So what if Kanye is a self-absorbed egomaniac? The dude is always coming with something fresh and innovative, and you have to respect that.

3. “Circus” by Britney Spears
(released Dec. 2)
“Womanizer” is currently wrecking my ability to focus on anything other than singing it.

4. “Freedom” by Akon
(released Dec. 2)
Akon’s the new Nate Dogg. I don’t think he’s capable of singing anything that’s not catchy.

5. “Black Ice” by AC/DC
(released Oct. 17)
AC/DC have made the same album for over 30 years now, and don’t expect any different with this new one. That’s a good thing if you love rock ‘n’ roll.

The “Heck Naw” List

1. “Before I Self Destruct” by 50 Cent
(release date: Dec 9)
By this point I get more enjoyment out of drinking Vitamin Water than I do his music.

2. “Greatest Remixes” by Good Charlotte
(released Nov. 25)
The best remixes? Are they being serious? This release gets my vote for “The Most Shameless Cash Grab” award for this holiday season.
Congratulations, guys, you earned it (pun intended).

3. “Chinese Democracy” by Guns N’ Roses
(released Nov. 23)
This album is going to flood the used shelves of record stores all across the country in exactly one month.

4. “Circus” by Britney Spears
(released Dec. 2)
America’s favorite train wreck releases her sixth album of slick sounding pop garbage.

5. “Live at Mile High Music Festival” by Dave Matthews Band
(release date: 12/16/08)
Get this one as either a stocking-stuffer for your Greek friend or use it as kindling for a Christmas fire. I prefer the latter.