The Rocket Summer

Singer and multi-instrumentalist Bryce Avary has shown huge commercial potential with his indie releases, and this, his first on a major label, displays a similarly sturdy power-pop formula. Even when Avary's high vocal colors the guitar-driven tunes with a boy-band affectation, the record still boasts plenty of edge and gigantic choruses. For highlights, try the furiously compressed, bite-sized "Hold It Up" (a mere 2:55) or the well-groomed title track.