Staind, “The Illusion of Progress” (Atlantic) It’s tempting to apply the title of Staind’s sixth album to its overall creative trajectory, but after selling more than 15 million albums over 12 years, this nu-metal band is clearly content to hang on to its formulaic songwriting. Ice Cube, “Raw Footage” (Lench Mob) Ice Cube’s music isn’t the groundbreaking stuff it used to be, but the hip-hip icon’s regular release schedule at least shows his commitment to the genre.
Amy Macdonald, “This is the Life” (Decca) Nineteen-year-old Scottish songwriter Macdonald shows promise on the Decca release of her debut, mashing traditional folk strains with Brit-rock swagger and assertive lyrics.
Shwayze, “Shwayze” (Geffen) Annoying moniker aside (yeah, it’s a play on the “Dirty Dancing” star’s last name) this MTV-approved act’s tunes play like Gorillaz-style hip-hop cut with Jack Johnson’s sunny, half-lidded frat pop. John Wenzel
