New Adventures in Hi-Fi
R.E.M.
Some of these crisply crafted sonic treats were recorded during sound checks and in impromptu backstage sessions during the band's 1995 Monster tour. Wham, bam, thank you, boys. (Warner Bros.)
Odelay
Beck
His 1994 debut single, "Loser," was a winner; so is this astonishing stew of styles (hip hop, blues, country, rock, punk and polka?) from the 26-year-old wonder. (DGC)
House of Music
Tony Toni Toné
Led by vocal and songwriting sensation Raphael Saadiq, three revivalists spread the gospel of soul. (Mercury)
Down on the Upside
Soundgarden
With Kurt Cobain gone from this world, the Seattle band keeps the torch of the city's sound burning with its blend of molten metal and irresistible, pop-lovely melody. (A & M)
I'm with Stupid
Aimee Mann
More than a great title, a catchy, compelling album that explains why the 'Til Tuesday singer's fans seemed willing to wait until forever to hear from her again. (DGC)
Eventually
Paul Westerberg
It's as if they invented the term alternative to describe his old Minneapolis garage band, the Replacements; here's a second solo round of rowdy rockers and wistful, literate, cry-in-your-beer tunes. (Reprise)
The Trouble with the Truth
Patty-Loveless
Her expressive, bluesy vocals ring with deep and true emotion, proving all contemporary country doesn't come from a cookie cutter. (Epic)
New World Order
Curtis Mayfield
A stirring testimony to the power of the spirit from the paralyzed soul survivor and a few helpful friends. (Warner Bros.)
Appalachia Waltz
Yo-Yo Ma, Edgar Meyer and Mark O'Connor
When two classical musicians and a down-home country fiddler meet, the result is uncategorizable; in fact, it's a gas. (Sony Classical)
The Road to Ensenada
Lyle Lovett
A cycle of foot-stomping swing and taut odes to heartache, and he swears they're not about you-know-who-who-was-once-wed-to-him. (Curb/MCA)
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