It may not be brand spankin' new, but it's new to us. Cold War Kids are back on the radar in 2011 with its most complete album to date.

Compelled by its Album of the Year win at this year's Grammys, we look at the latest from The Arcade Fire. Does it hold up to the lofty standard of its new title?

Is J. Cole the next great rapper? After listening to Friday Night Lights, it's tough to disagree. Did we mention FNL was free?

New Jersey's rock band on the rise makes its third album one of growth and escape from old habits. It might be picking up a few new ones along the way, too.

State of the World (2003) sounds like a throwback album. For me, it was a lucky find in the Used section while killing time in Arkansas. A real hidden gem.

Some emcees are songwriters. And some are just rappers. Sometimes, being the latter is perfectly OK. Do what you do, if that's what you do. That's Asher Roth.

Can an acoustic folk songstress set her voice in a bed of rock, blues, country and pop and come out with the same effect? We decided to find out.

In the wake of the sudden death of battle rap icon Eyedea over the weekend, it's time to introduce those who aren't familiar.