Only Run expands on the band's simultaneously soaring, jittery and joyful sound in surprising ways. The result reflects a relentless pursuit of invention and reinvention.

The Brooklyn rock band still wind-sprints with deadly efficiency. But the slower moments on Sunbathing Animal locate the essence of heartache in unexpected ways.

The Walkmen's lead singer has gotten a head start on middle age, lyrically speaking. 'Black Hours' finds him letting it catch up without losing his vitality in the process.

The Scandinavian dream team unveils a mini-album that bookends dance-pop goodness with moody grace. All the way through, there's a palpable sense of freedom to the music.

Fela Kuti's youngest son brings the fury, funk and sweat of Afrobeat to bear down on financial corruption and other issues. Along the way, he finds grace, humor and plenty of good beats.

If there's any conflict at all throughout these 13 tracks, then it's purely an internal one for Pallett, a legit composer who also possesses the instincts to craft brilliant pop songs.

'Are We There' is a record of undeniable brilliance, a tough yet bracing listen that shows Van Etten reaching new heights as a songwriter, producer, and vocalist. Hear the entire album before its release on May 27, 2014.

Tiersen, known for his work on the film Amelie, understands how to make music sound cinematic. On his eighth studio album, visuals are bound to pop into listeners' heads throughout.

Buzz seems to be hitting new highs for the Twin Cities' own Haley Bonar, whose long-awaited album 'Last War,' will be released May 20 on Graveface Records. Preview the entire album here first.

Preview Conor Oberst's new record 'Upside Down Mountain' in its entirety.