The Pretenders weren't gone enough for "Break Up the Concrete" to count as a comeback, but it still stuns--this is rock 'n' roll as we perhaps forgot Chrissie Hynde could make it. Gruff melodies pair with countrified guitars and a voice that hasn't sounded better.

Filed in: Pop/Rock

While jazz trios tend to stay low-pro, E.S.T. has managed to gain an international following outside of its home base of Sweden. Much like the Cinematic Orchestra, the group's new school approach to post-bop creates more of journey for its listener, rather than a groove. We're featuring this in memory of Esbjorn Svensson. Svensson died on June 14, 2008 at the age of 44.

Filed in: Post-Bop

If you carry as your burden a love-hate relationship with Bonnie 'Prince' Billy, listen to Daniel Martin Moore and have it lightened. The Kentuckian, making his Sub Pop debut with "Stray Age," arrives with a warm, unpretentious folk that wouldn't be able to find Silver Lake on a map.

Filed in: Alternative Folk

It seems like every week that another "can't miss" compilation appears. But check out the contributors to K.O.'s "Picture This" set, and just try to argue. Running from Kweli to 9th (with a bunch of indie's finest in-between), the disc is a rhyme-riddled and groove-grounded triumph.

Filed in: Soul/Jazz Hip-Hop

A remarkable set of rhythmic traditions collides in this San Francisco group's stuff. In a typical track, cool Latin lilts will be bent beyond recognition via dark synth tones and hard house backings. They're all things you dance to--but how do you dance to all at once?

Filed in: Electronica