Here’s a rundown of the essential albums available online and in record stores today:
Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band, Outer South
Bright-eyed bandleader in overgenerous mood.
Read Review >>
St. Vincent, Actor
Brooklyn songwriter packs (metaphorical) blade.
Read Review >>
Akron/Family, Set ‘Em Wild, Set ‘Em Free
Freak-folk crew loses member, amplifies sound.
Read Review >>
Fischerspooner, Entertainment
Theatrical electroclash pair gild drooping lilies.
Read Review >>
Ben Harper and Relentless7, White Lies for Dark Times
An Americana jukebox in need of some fresh 45s.
Read Review >>
The Horrors, Primary Colours
Black-clad Brits shake riotous need for speed.
Read Review >>
Isis, Wavering Radiant
Heady metallic auteurs re-enter the mosh pit.
Read Review >>
New York Dolls, Cause I Sez So
Glam icons test their legacy’s vast goodwill.
Read Review >>
Cracker, Sunrise in the Land of Milk and Honey
Veteran wise guy tries sensitivity — or does he?
Read Review >>
Peaches, I Feel Cream
Electro-rap provocateur varies approach to punany.
Read Review >>
Kevin Devine, Brother’s Blood
Brooklyn dude displays several (adorable) faces.
Read Review >>
Magik Markers, Balf Quarry
Boho noise vandals treat rock like a wall to graffiti.
Read Review >>
Patrick Watson & the Wooden Arms, Wooden Arms
Art-pop arriviste gives flimsy whimsy some bite.
Read Review >>
Alasdair Roberts, Spoils
The strumming relaxes, while the visions rattle.
Read Review >>
Georgia Anne Muldrow, Georgia Anne Muldrow Presents…Ms. One
Space-traveling earth mama motivates crew.
Read Review >>
Pink Mountaintops, Outside Love
Histrionic folk rocker is just too bloody corny.
Read Review >>
Abstract Rude, Rejuvenation
Indie MC legend’s comeback fizzles unnecessarily.
Read Review >>
More on SPIN.com:
>> The Ben Harper Guide to Summer Festivals
>> Horrors’ Horror Movie Video
>> Free Download: St. Vincent Does Disney
>> Conor Oberst Debuts New Tune on ‘Conan’
>> Peaches: She’s a Very Kinky Girl
>> Exclusive Download: Kevin Devine’s Bad Dreams
>> Patrick Watson Finds Paradise