Beach House
Bloom
(Sub Pop)

A big step forward for a band already well ahead of the curve, Beach House stakes its claim for the Cocteau Twins' dream-pop throne on album No. 4.

Tenacious D
Rize of the Fenix
(Epic)

With a roster of guests that includes Dave Grohl, Jack Black and Kyle Gass ascend glorious comedy-rock heights once again.

Best Coast
The Only Place
(Mexican Summer)

Like the Sleigh Bells, Best Coast spends its sophomore album making slight refinements to its sound without disrupting a successful formula.

Hot Water Music
Exister
(Rise)

Gainsville, Fla., punk mainstays return following an eight-year hiatus with a record that recaptures their old fire and benefits from a matured perspective.