Tindersticks

Masters of atmospheric storytelling since the early '90s, England's Tindersticks showcase the shivery yet forthright murmur of Stuart Staples. Whether surfing a spaghetti-western wave on "She Rode Me Down," leading a trance-inducing chant on the trumpet-infused title track, or evoking terminal sadness alongside tremolo-soaked guitar on "No Place So Alone," Staples is deceptively forceful. But he also knows when to shut up: The moody instrumentals "Hubbards Hills" and "Piano Music" are stunning, multicolored epics that could turn lazy daydreams into mind-blowing fantasies.

By Jon Young