Band of Horses Why Are You OK

Band of Horses' fifth studio record was produced by Grandaddy's Jason Lytle, an inspired choice. Not only does Lytle help the indie-twang group rediscover how to loosen up—something missing from its previous two albums, which were airless and fussed-over—but he brings a dreamy (and, often, reverb-fogged or electronic) glow to the band's music.

The psychedelic-pop gems "Dull Times the Moon" and "Hag" have a plush foundational cushion, thanks to cloud-like keyboards and Ben Bridwell's crooning vocals, while "Throw My Mess" hews toward irreverent country-rock.

Why Are You OK is even better on "Country Teen," a loping trot that recalls R.E.M.'s jangly mysticism; the wistful "In a Drawer," on which Dinosaur Jr.'s J Mascis pops in to lend no-nonsense vocals; and "Casual Party," whose jagged riffs direct the song into Echo & The Bunnymen territory.

In short, Band of Horses sounds rejuvenated and refreshed—and much more than merely okay.