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Depending on your sense of humor, William Hung's 15 minutes of fame on one 2004 episode of American Idol were either a joke or the high point of the show's season. Tone-deaf, karaoke-trained, and a far cry from the series' polished and trendy wannabe pop stars, Hung was booted halfway through his classic cover of Ricky Martin's "She Bangs." Inspiration, his first (and possibly last) CD, gives his legion of fans a chance to hear him in his entirety. Basically, it's Hung with karaoke background music, warbling through classics such as "Hotel California," "Rocket Man," and "Y.M.C.A." A few "inspirational thought" tracks are interspersed between the songs, giving you insight into the UC Berkeley student's self-confidence and enthusiasm. A bonus DVD even contains new footage and interviews of Hung in action. There are plenty of classic, imaginative novelty records out there–consider the Shaggs, Lucia Pamela, and Mrs. Miller–but this isn't one of them. Hung's backing music is too bland and, after a few tracks, the joke wears a little thin. But if you must hear more of this unlikely American Idol, here's your chance. –Jason Verlinde

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