The guitars disappeared, but the clouds of depression hanging over A Perfect Circle's music have not. Thirteenth Step's superb production and James Maynard Keenan's singing somewhat diminish the major fault of certain songs: a lack of direction and dynamics. Fortunately, tracks such as "The Package" and "Pet" build up layers of sound, then explode in violent and unexpected directions. -- Zach Smith
After listening to the booming bass and futuristic sound effects of Aesop Rock's new album, Bazooka Tooth, I found myself distracted by the awkwardly-paced beats, unable to appreciate Aesop's masterful lyrics. Despite containing the soulful gem "Cool it Down," the album seems produced more for established Aesop Rock fans who are accustomed to his unique rap style than for newcomers to the game. -- Eric Borowsky
On this debut self-titled album, Ima Robot writes eclectic and energetic songs, but the singer kills them. He makes me feel as though I'm singing along with the nerd in my high school physics class. You know, the one with the sickeningly high-pitched voice whose Dockers swallowed his entire torso. Sorry, Carl. -- Mitch Manger
Leona Naess thanks her parents for "having had sex that day" in the liner notes of her latest, self-titled album. Dropping a third disc of introspective chick music, Naess doesn't show much growth since her sophomore record. Her melodic Natalie Merchant-like voice generates soothing music that will not be noticed while playing in the background of a study session. -- Rachel Jouse
No, this album is not a return to their punk roots. And no, this album doesn't pick up the emo vibe they once had. What Saves the Day's In Reverie does contain is decent guitar-driven hooks, upbeat melodies, and a full embrace of the pop mentality. The old adage, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" rings true here: Saves the Day traded a solid punk/emo fanbase for a mediocre offering in the crowded pop playing field. -- William Beckerman
This emocore band's debut features catchy and strong choruses reminiscent of Taking Back Sunday, along with Finch-like screaming. Even songs that start out slightly whiney become angrier by the end. If frequent yelling doesn't bother you, Story of the Year's Page Avenue is definitely a good find. -- Jaclyn Einis
The fifth album for the prolific String Cheese Incident since their 1997 debut, Untying the Not finds the progressive bluegrass band abandoning the jams of its past in exchange for ventures in electronic music. The album flows poorly, however - its experimental tracks break the flow of the remainder of the work's twangy pop. -- Rafael Garcia
