Brownout, “Fear of a Brown Planet” (Fat Beats) On its latest, this seriously funky Texas band — started by members of another terrific outfit, Grupo Fantasma — turns its attention to the music of Public Enemy. Brownout already has proved its ability to re-interpret and revitalize material by great artists — its “Brown Sabbath” records did so for Black Sabbath. Here, it furthers that reputation with vital instrumental turns on hip-hop classics.
Chvrches, “Love is Dead” (Glassnote) Buoyed by Lauren Mayberry’s expressive voice, this Scottish band offers up a third collection of vanguard, visceral synth-pop. On songs such as “Miracle,” Chvrches sounds like it could be the biggest band in the world, yet the group is willing to explore unique musical nooks and crannies.
Hoobastank, “Push Pull” (Napalm) On its first record in six years, the band behind such early-aughts hits as “The Reason” and “Crawling in the Dark” uses its big hooks as a bridge between guitar-driven sounds and a more limber, rhythmic form of modern pop.
Snow Patrol, “Wildness” (Republic) A long-awaited follow-up to 2011’s “Fallen Empires” finds this U.K. outfit continuing its mission to center anthemic hooks and emotionally resonant lyrics. Snow Patrol’s sound has proved its staying power 20 years into the band’s existence.
Wooden Shjips, “V” (Thrill Jockey) This Bay Area band celebrates, and in some cases improves upon, the flowing, psychedelic side of rock ‘n’ roll. A Columbia connection: The band’s latest was mixed by former Mid-Missourian Cooper Crain, who has made his name with outfits such as Cave and Bitchin Bajas.