With its sophisticated rock numbers and singer Matthew Caws' high-register croon, alt-rock trio Nada Surf has developed into a critics' band, even if it hasn't managed to replicate the mainstream success of its 1996 hit, Popular. But the band's first album of original material in four years, since 2008's critically acclaimed Lucky, is worth the wait. From the power pop propulsion of the opening Clear Eye Clouded Mind and The Moon Is Calling, to the chiming guitar arpeggios of Waiting For Something, Nada Surf proves again it is deft at re-fashioning the raw materials of classic pop-rock into sweet and edgy modern rock. Kevin Mathews

"Dunno what the f*** they talk about ..." is probably not what you might expect from an opening song (If Not I'll Just Die) that sounds like it originated from Tin Pan Alley - what with its Broadway chords, Hollywood strings and all.

But nothing is sacred in the musical world view of Nashville's Kurt Wagner and his motley assembly of ever-changing backing musicians. Since the '90s, Lambchop has been loosely associated with the alternative-country movement, but, really, it is much more than that. Wagner and Co take myriad strands of country, jazz and '50s pop to present a unique musical vision. And this latest album - the 11th - is no different.

Ostensibly, tracks like the Jimmy Webb-channelling Gone Tomorrow, 2B2 and The Good Life (Is Wasted) contain enough twang to entice country fans; but listen carefully to the strong baroque settings of Mr. Met and Buttons, and a chamber pop agenda can be clearly discerned.

There's a delicious hint of gospel on Kind Of, cinematic scope on Betty's Overture, and gorgeous orchestral folk on Never My Love to close Mr. M as strongly as it began.

Essential listening for 2012.

Nine years is a long time between albums - especially between a debut and a sophomore album. The Jealous Sound's 2003 debut, Kill Them With Kindness, was a tight alternative rock classic; but despite the fact it was largely well-received, their second effort failed to materialise. Until now. The band keeps things relatively simple here, focusing on hooks and melodies to heighten the appeal of its emotionally charged material. Blair Shehan's vocals has always been more functional than demonstrative, letting the inherent strength of melodies and harmonies carry the song forward. Same can be said of the guitar work: It is fairly modest and aids in the overall impact of songs like Beautiful Morning, Your Eyes Were Shining and This Is Where It Starts. Fist-pumping anthems and heartfelt reflections - fans of Jimmy Eat World and The Promise Ring will no doubt approve. Kevin Mathews

Lana Del Ray has been making headlines in recent months, not just for her millionaire father (domain investor Robert Grant) or distinctive look (shades of '60s wave meets alternative mod), but also her equally distinctive voice, which echoes those '60s chanteuses such as Nico, Dusty Springfield or even Grace Slick. But while songs like Video Games, National Anthem and Summertime Sadness aren't unpleasant to listen to, Lana lacks the oomph that made Nico, Dusty and Grace the distinctive singers they were. The title track, for instance, is a sombre movement, but it doesn't quite go to the depths and doesn't quite eviscerate as much as we'd like. This, unfortunately, makes the album sound rather lightweight and repetitive - one can only take so much melodrama, you know? But where Lana gets it right, she does a great job, making an excellent mix of emo and pop. Christopher Toh

Devin Tailes got her start in the business when she recorded a "diss track", a cover of Amy Winehouse's Back To Black, in response to her ex-boyfriend. Now, a couple of years later, she's got a debut album that is perky, full of poise and delicate. Immediate comparisons include Robyn, Jessie J and even Ke$ha, but Dev offers a lot more range than you'd think, considering the album is primarily constructed to get you moving on the dance floor. Dev has some way to go to be the shining light of the club scene, but this isn't too bad a start. Notable tracks include Dancing Shoes, Perfect Match and Take Her From You. Christopher Toh