Damage

With its recurring themes of heartache and break-ups, Jimmy Eat World's eighth album feels intensely personal. Recorded on vintage equipment in the home studio of producer Alain Johannes (Queens of the Stone Age), Damage has a warm, organic sound. The raw, no-nonsense approach makes the jangling "Lean," the plaintive "Byebyelove" and the heavier thump of "No, Never" sound even more human. Bracing opener "Appreciation" perfectly demonstrates the band's punk guitar crunch. As always, frontman Jim Adkins's emotional vocals and poignant lyrics remain the focal point.