Charlatans U.K.

Best Charlatans album in years. That's a cliche, of course, but this time it's true. When nearly every young indie band from the U.K. sounds like 1989, the Charlatans teach 'em how it's done with a collection of guitar-driven power pop, New Order-inspired new wave and ethereal dance pop. If you really want to hear the '80s in 2008, crank jams from some dudes who were actually there. And start with "The Misbegotten." That's a sweet one. Or maybe the rockin' title track.