Kurt Vile's sixth studio album shows Vile's evolution as an artist and his exploration of his identity as a songwriter. The album showcases a mix of Vile's serious and silly sides, providing a signpost in a career of an indie-rock underdog who has found success by trying hard to not try hard.

Chvrches' second album defines modern synth pop. Unafraid to embrace the pop sounds of the '80s, the Glasgow trio give us a glimpse of the future of dance music.

'Caracal' is a production masterpiece featuring some of the best contemporary voices of 2015. It works as an album and is more listenable than most rock albums out this year.

When Buddy Guy named Gary Clark Jr as the potential savior of the blues, that had to create some pressure. Clark's follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2012 debut took three years, and the result displays Clark's blues influences as well as his other inspirations. 'The Story of Sonny Boy Slim' is in fact, the story of Gary Clark Jr. And it's a very good read.

The Current's Andrea Swensson has no qualms about declaring Low's 11th album one of the finest in the band's 22-year career. 'This is an album that cracks and sizzles, bursting with an electric energy,' Swensson writes.

While some artists use the "side project" as an excuse to fly far from the nest, Dan Auerbach's new band The Arcs' release 'Yours, Dreamily' doesn't stray from the style that has made Auerbach one of the most successful rockers of the last decade.

The latest album from Baltimore band Beach House proves that duo Alex Scally and Victoria Legrand are set on attaining success on their own terms while keeping the beauty and sanctity of music-making at the center of what they do.

Wilco's newest album, 'Star Wars', is a rarity amongst Wilco albums in that it seems to actively shy away from analysis or deeper meaning. For us listeners, it may mean we can simply sit back and enjoy it.

The name of Frank Turner's new (and sixth) studio album could also be his mission statement. It's clear the them to this ablum is about finding the positive in many situations. Turner has taken that attitude and set it to music.

Mac DeMarco's fourth studio album is a mini-LP of eight songs that satisfy your curiosity yet leaves you wanting more. The Canadian musician has now relocated to Queens, N.Y., and perhaps the location change is apparent in some of his arrangements.