PR Newman (record release), Mean Jolene, Batty Jr., Star Parks

Onetime Berkshire Hound Spencer Garland unveils his debut LP as the “punk rock Randy Newman,” employing a seasoned crew including Brendan Bond of the Bond Twins and Jim Campo of Magic Rockers of Texas. Smiley single “Everything” stomps and charms with mariachi flair. Spacey, wavering indie from Batty Jr. begins, followed by Star Parks’ uplifting retro-rock bravado. Sparking pop-punk for the summertime, Mean Jolene closes the deal. – Rachel Rascoe