WEEK IN PREVIEW: THREE-WAY DEAD HEAT????

Tired of the same old tipsheet hype and hyperbole regarding this week’s album chart and multi-format radio activity?

We’re not.

Monster mega-action rocking the HITS Top 50 this week with Elektra’s superpowerhouse Staind looking to retain its album chart throne in the face of heavy breathing from killer first-week performances by Universal’s St. Lunatics and Capitol’s Radiohead. This could go any way, folks—exciting, ain’t it? Also look for a boffo Top Ten bow by Columbia’s sultry music queen Jessica Simpson, who’s as "Irresistible" as her title suggests. Is this an amazing week or what? Also looking like a stupendous, killer, heart-stopping, big debut is Universal’s Turk.

And if that’s not remarkable enough, check out the strength of Interscope’s "Moulin Rouge," which continues to build massive steam amid boffo box office. And speaking of incredible film music, how about the mind-blowing first-week numbers for Murder Inc/DJ/IDJ’s "The Fast And The Furious," which is currently zooming in the Top 20. Meanwhile, incubating before its massive B.O. bow, Elektra’s unbelievable "Tomb Raider" lurks in the Top 30. Is this something, or what? Click the "Sales" tab at the top of this page to see our wonderful "Building Album Sales Chart" for your incredible self.

Not enough blood-curdling action for you? The nutty, koo-koo brainiacs at Top 40 have anointed Virgin goddess Janet Jackson most added, while Interscope’s Eve with Gwen Stefani will have an awe-inspiring closeout week. Also look for Arista studmuffin Usher to have a heartwarming first week at the format.

Meanwhile, those culture-defining heroes at Post Modern are finding Columbia’s Cake mighty sweet, while the soooo-important Jamz format is wild about J’s Olivia and Rawkus’ Jonell. Not to be outdone, the Rap gods are smiling on Antra’s Kurupt.

So skip the meat and embrace the hype, kids—this is gonna be the best week EVER!!!!!