From its very first song, Ray LaMontagne lets us know 'Ouroboros' is a different sort of outing. Stepping away from the easy-breezy folk music he's been known for, LaMontagne gives us a dreamy psychedelic album.

Jack Garratt's debut album stands out for its use of dynamics and tempo; quiet moments contrast with bombastic cacophony. The result is a collection of electro-pop gems that create an immersive musical experience.

With 'Livin' on a High Note,' Mavis Staples wanted to make a record that would uplift people. In another singer's hands, this may have come across as corny or preachy, but in this case, the beauty lies in the simplicity and the understanding of just who is delivering these words of hope.

The latest album from Lucius is a shinier, poppier, bigger version of the Lucius many of us fell in love with on 'Wildewoman'. 'Good Grief' is an album of power ballads, poppy R&B and a dash of Dusty Springfield-esque singing for balance.

Although Iggy Pop found increasing success as time wore on, he never quite returned to the promise of his two 1977 albums. Until now. 'Post Pop Depression' is one of Iggy's best.

From the opening strains of the first track, Polica make it clear that this album is taking us in a new direction. With songs that are political and personal, singer Channy Leaneagh shows off the full range of her elastic and emotive voice.

The hallmark of any Animal Collective record is a sea of instruments, awash in reverb, with vocals layered over top. 'Painting With' features these signature elements in a consistent fashion over 41 minutes

Lissie's third release is a beautiful album. This is the sound of experience and sacrifice, the sound of growing up, and all the brilliance and brutality that that process entails. Lissie has never been more expert in her ability to convey emotion.

In his foreword to the Cloud Cult book, 'Chasing the Light,' The Current's Mark Wheat posited the band's album 'Love' was their best ever. Mark now takes that back; 'The Seeker,' he says, is their best ever!

Lucinda Williams' second double album in less than two years is inspired by a 190-mile stretch of road near the place in Louisiana where she grew up. If GQ magazine recently called Jason Isbell the King of Americana, perhaps Lucinda Williams is its reigning queen.