This week’s best albums
– Animals as Leaders’ third LP includes a Latin flair and a stronger focus on electronic flourishes — but its attention to songwriting (plus crushing riffs and rhythms) makes it another cathartic and engaging experience.
– The genre-less Liars has another musical mood swing on Mess.
– On percussionist Glenn Kotche’s fourth solo LP, the rhythmically minded composer pushes boundaries without being pushy.
– The original Cap’n Jazz lineup is back as Owls, releasing its sophomore LP a scant 13 years after its debut.
Honorable mentions
The Bad Plus: The Rite of Spring (Sony)
Grieves: Winter & The Wolves (Rhymesayers)
Chuck Ragan: Till Midnight (Side One Dummy)