Tull became known for earth-toned woodland rock, but they were always deeply devoted to the blues, and on debut "This Was" that love was the driver. Classics like "Beggar's Farm" are Delta in tone, yet already restless in spirit. The re-release is a great gap-filler for fans of the later stuff.

Filed in: Hard Rock

Over two decades after he first hit the scene, the L.A.-via-Jersey emcee hasn't lost a step; if anything, his ferocious vocals have only improved, a new maturity now mixing with the trademark swagger. "Gangsta Rap," just re-released with extras, is a brooding but eventually optimistic set.

Filed in: Gangsta Rap

Much of what's so appealing about the Dixie Chicks--the swooning three-part harmonies, the summertime mix of classic Music Row country and breezy pop--turns up in fine form in this sibling trio. The Carter's Chord debut shows not only real charisma, but also impressive range.

Filed in: Contemporary Country

There's a certain trickle-down economics to R&B. Start with a pitch-perfect voice, and everything else will fall into place. The Canadian musician's pipes are soft as down and sweet as sugar, and a blend of mellow keys and shuffling drums fills out the mix in fine fashion.

Filed in: R&B

Laswell has become one of our pre-eminent bards of heartbreak, his songs exploring the complex and tortured emotions of loss. New disc "Three Flights from Alto Nido" moves into a more circumspect and cathartic phase. Hushed beatscapes and keening melodies set off the ruminations.

Filed in: Pop/Rock