FRANZ FERDINAND

FRANZ FERDINAND

Album: “Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action” (Domino)

Grade: A-

It’s been four years since Franz Ferdinand released an album, and a full eight since the Scottish dance-rock foursome sounded as vigorous and as entertaining as they do on “RT, RW, RA.” When last heard from, on 2009’s sluggish “Tonight,” torpor was setting in. But this time around, FF are clearly on again, making music for all the correct reasons. The guitars are razor-sharp, and locomoting tunes like “Treason! Animals” sport jagged grooves and lacerating self-criticism. “I’m in love with a narcissist,” Alex Kapranos sings as he gazes into a mirror of self-awareness. Add a previously undiscovered knack for melody to go with the band’s trademark rhythmic flair, and this album amounts to a stylishly energetic comeback of the first order.

—Dan DeLuca, Philadelphia Inquirer

Goodie Mob

Album: “Age Against the Machine” (Alliance Entertainment)

Grade: B

Goodie Mob reunited for their new album, “Age Against the Machine,” but the foursome’s offering seems more like the CeeLo Green show.

His soulful vocals and lyrics are strong and digestible on songs such as “Nexperience” and “Ghost of Gloria Goodchild.” He sings about his first interracial relationship on “Amy,” and talks about how his burgeoning star appeal as a solo artist has given him some advantages in life on “Power.”

Goodie Mob’s messages are thought-provoking and insightful throughout their fifth album. They touch on topics from bullying (the Janelle Monae-assisted “Special Education”) to artistry in music (“State of the Art (Radio Killa”) to race (”Kolors”).

—Jonathan Landrum Jr. Associated Press