Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks: Wig Out at Jagbags

Released in 2011 in the wake of his former band's reunion gigs, Stephen Malkmus's last solo album (Mirror Traffic) proved that he was so much more than just "that guy from Pavement". The Berlin-based Californian's sixth album with The Jicks continues the succinct momentum, epitomising the best qualities of Malkmus's songwriting. Lariat exhibits his knack for melody and addictive earworm guitar riffs, and Rumble at the Radio and The Janitor Revealed his penchant for slouchy, off-kilter pop tempos. Chartjunk even incorporates a brass section into its brilliantly barbed finger-clicking vibe. As the title suggests, Malkmus even retains his right to "wig out" on Surreal Teenagers and Cinnamon & Lesbians. This terrifically varied record will rekindle your love of guitar pop amid the dull extant scene. stephenmalkmus.com
Download: Chartjunk, Lariat, The Janitor Revealed