Mikal Cronin

Scuzzed San Francisco pedigree or no, multi-instrumentalist Mikal Cronin's critical path always arced toward aspirant pop. The Ty Segall compatriot employs full-bodied arrangements and summit-cresting guitar solos to craft a grand statement on solo LP three. Roiling strings drive "Turn Around," an exclamatory overture sabotaged by lack of resolution, while the cruise-controlled cowbell clip of "Say" summons open roads. The ELO-flavored French horn passage opening "Alone" on side two's six-part song cycle builds a restiveness that culminates in straight-up wallbanger "Ready." Missing the shambolic charm of Cronin's earlier work, MCIII nevertheless guarantees bigger stages. (2:25pm, Orange stage)