Recorded at Pachyderm Studios in Cannon Falls, Minn., and produced by Low's Alan Sparhawk, 'Wild Animals' just might be Trampled by Turtles' best batch of songs yet.

Let's stop thinking so hard about Lana Del Rey's image for a minute and listen to her music, because it doesn't get much more honest or soul-baring than on her new record, 'Ultraviolence'.

Sam Smith's debut release is an ambitious album that shows Smith is both a talented singer and writer, and his songs bring out the raw, unaffected voice that might be the best of the year.

Klara and Johanna Söderberg of First Aid Kit augment their magical sibling harmonies with a fuller sound and richer arrangements -- which may not have been possible without their connection to Omaha's Conor Oberst and Mike Mogis.

Conor Oberst's newest solo effort is a continuation of many of his trademark tropes, with all the connotations that come with them. Overall, Oberst's melodies possess a familiarity, making all the songs seem both comfortable and easygoing.

Jack White's sophomore solo album builds on his already impressive musical talent. 'Lazaretto' channels the voices, music and instruments White has mastered as a professor of the rock tradition.

Bob Mould's new album may very well be the most epic emotional rollercoaster ever pressed into 36 minutes - and for Bob Mould, that says a lot. Mould is as relevant, ferocious and poignant as he has ever been.

With a voice like Ray LaMontagne's, it would be easy for him to keep making the same album over and over. But this album might be the freshest and most adventurous of LaMontagne's career.

Tune-Yards' new album Nikki Nack consistently blurs the line between silliness and seriousness. These serious nursery rhymes address weighty issues. And even though Merrill Garbus's music sounds simple, even a cursory listen immediately reveals new patterns en route to a world that's distinctly her own.

With their new album, 'Turn Blue', the Black Keys stretch out -- pulling their music like funhouse taffy into new and interesting shapes.