Here’s our take on the best and worst albums available online and in record stores today:

J Mascis, Several Shades of Why
Sebadoh-ish indie-folk jams from Sebadoh dude’s boss.
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Black Joe Lewis, Scandalous
Steamy Austin axeman still seeking spiritual release.
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The Joy Formidable, The Big Roar
Female-led Welsh alt-rockers blast into the red.
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The Eternal Cool of Nick Lowe

Noah and the Whale, Last Night on Earth
Zen and the art of getting indie-rock dudes to dance.
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New York Dolls, Dancing Backward in High Heels
Trashy legends reborn via girl-group and doo-wop pop.
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Nick Lowe, Labour of Lust
Deftly blending pop, rock, country, and wry humor.
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Eleventh Dream Day, Riot Now!
A wall-shaking return by avatars of rootsy ’90s din.
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Rise Against, Endgame
Bad Religion’s Chicago chapter loses its focus.
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Cornershop, Cornershop & the Double O Groove Of
Shelving rock rave-ups for lilting Punjabi soundtrack.
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