Soulful hip-hop, searing blues guitar and ghostly indie pop are among this week's other notable releases.
5:50PM EDT October 22. 2012 - Kendrick Lamar, Good Kid, m.A.A.d. City
Hip-hop
* * * 1/2 out of four
Elegant might not describe Lamar's subject matter or the language. But there's a sophistication in his cool, taut delivery and deftly syncopated, soulfully textured arrangements, which make his blunt accounts as seductive as they are sobering. -- Elysa Gardner
Download:Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst, Good Kid
Gary Clark Jr., Blak and Blu
Blues
* * * 1/2
The Austin blues guitarist's full-length follow-up to The Bright Lights EP, his acclaimed 2011 four-song set, showcases his virtuosity and versatility. His snarling guitar and soulful vocals energize traditional blues laced with modern flavorings. -- Steve Jones
Download: Ain't Messin' Round, Numb, Bright Lights, You Saved Me
Bat for Lashes, The Haunted Man
Indie pop
* * *
The ghostly vibe, crafty arrangements and quirky vocals on Natasha Khan's third studio release conjure Bjork and PJ Harvey, yet poise, polish and precision keep her feral nature caged. If only Khan would sing these lovely songs with less icy detachment. -- Edna Gundersen
Download:All Your Gold, Laura, Lilies, Rest Your Head
