The third album from Japanese Breakfast, "Jubilee," swings for the fences with a much bigger, poppier sound, complete with horn and string arrangements. It's a major leap forward in Michelle Zauner's impressive career.

Rosie Tucker's debut for Epitaph Records, "Sucker Supreme," is a surprising indie pop gem. Witty lyrics and concise songwriting, together with some interesting experimental moments, result in a charming album that you'll end up leaving on repeat.

Squid's debut LP, "Bright Green Field," defies categorization. It's an electrifyingly creative mix of post-punk, jazz, and experimental rock that explores the anxiety and excitement of our dystopian future.

Covering the map with everything from pop to heavy rock to country-tinged ballads, Prism Bitch's varied and energetic debut LP is worth a listen. We discuss "Perla" on episode #146 of “For the Record.”

Tune-Yards are back with an album of politically-charged tracks that you can't help but sing along to -- and they're from right here in the Bay Area! We discuss "Sketchy" on episode #145 of “For the Record.”

Adult Mom's third album is their first for Epitaph Records, and the fullest realization yet of their charming, intimate sound. We discuss "Driver" on episode #144 of “For the Record.” For all the past episodes, visit ForTheRecordPodcast.com.

Julien Baker's third album is a triumph. It's major departure from her previous sound, with a richness of production that matches its emotional expansiveness. We discuss "Little Oblivions" on episode #143 of “For the Record.”

London quintet Shame made a splash with the brash post-punk of their debut record, but come back with a more complex and contemplative sound for their second album. We discuss "Drunk Tank Pink" on episode #142 of "For the Record."

Norwegian quartet Pom Poko create art-punk which combines prog intricacy, rich production, and jazz improvisation to create unexpectedly poppy, emotionally resonant songs which amply reward repeat listens.

British singer-songwriter Katy J Pearson channels Americana and sunny 70s rock to create her own charming brand of indie pop. We discuss her debut record, "Return," in episode #140 of "For the Record." For all the past episodes, visit ForTheRecordPodcast.