Cam’Ron Killa Season (Diplomatic Man) – He’s straight-up gangsta. In the last two years he’s hunted internet pedophiles, gotten shot and beefed with Jay-Z. Some critics complain that the beats on this album sound too much like the last one, but most agree that his lyrics make it an enjoyable listen. He’s even got a song about his battle with irritable bowel syndrome.

Dinosaur Jr. Green Mind and Where You Been (Rhino) – While these are both essential indie rock albums, most fans probably already own perfectly good copies of them. In the age of iTunes, just pickup the bonus tracks. If you don’t own them, by all means…..you can preview them at AOL.

The Raconteurs Broken Boy Soldiers (Third Man/V2) – The Raconteurs features Jack White (of the White Stripes) with Brendan Benson (power pop singer and guitarist with several solo albums) and the rhythm section of the Greenhornes. They’re all extremely talented, but is that really a supergroup? By now you’ve already got an opinion about the lead single, “Steady, As She Goes.” Critics generally like this record, but few seem to unconditionally love it. If you really just wanna hear Jack White rock, maybe you should buy the Wolfmother record instead. (It's not really Jack White, but doesn't it sound like him?). They will appear live at the Henry Fonda Theatre on 6/7 (sold out) and the Wiltern Theatre on 7/21. You can stream the album for free at AOL.

The Twilight Singers Powder Burns (One Little Indian) – You might remember Greg Dulli from the Afghan Whigs. You might also recognize him from some of the bars around town (especially the ones in which he has an ownership stake). He’s known for being an outstanding live performer. This is the Twilight Singers' fourth album, and critics say it's the most rocking. You can catch him at the Avalon on 6/21. Listen to some tracks at Myspace.

Whirlwind Heat Types of Wood (Brille) – They’ve opened for The White Stripes, Beck and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. They frequently get compared to Beck and Stephen Malkmus of Pavement. It's fun to listen to, but that's a little unfair to all parties. Appearing live at the Troubadour on 6/27. Listen to “Reagan”