A Grand Don't Come for Free

The joy in this album comes as much from the emotional peaks as from the concept—a deftly told story of new love and missing money. “Dry Your Eyes” needs no introduction, but “Could Well Be In” and “Blinded by the Lights” are just as powerful, with Mike Skinner quietly narrating the heart into two beautifully observed tales of fledgling romance and woozy dance floors. “Fit But You Know It” even updates the battle of the sexes, sounding both conceited and wise at the same time.