Fresh Sounds for August 16

Paul McCartney  Chaos and Creation in the Backyard:  Sir Paul adds to his full reissue schedule this year, this time with this relatively overlooked and understated album from 2005. McCartney finds himself in a reflective mood, and songs like "A Certain Softness" and "Riding to Vanity Fair" reinforce his world-class songwriting.
 

Blue October  Any Man in America:  This Houston band might be better known for its consistent placement in movies and TV shows (The Sopranos, NCIS) than for its albums, but that may change with this strong collection of post-grunge songs, full of great hooks and catchy melodies.
 

Ollabelle  Neon Blue Bird:  This New York collective is back with its first album in five years. Renowned for a fresh take on old sounds – folk, gospel, traditional music – the band features the daughter of The Band's Levon Helm, Amy, and was partially recorded at dad's studio in Woodstock, N.Y.
 

Junior Wells' Chicago Blues Band With Buddy Guy  Hoodoo Man Blues:  Often cited as the quintessential blues album, this 1965 gem was a huge influence on musicians such as Eric Clapton and Paul Butterfield. The reissue features four previously unreleased performances and an expanded booklet with never before seen photos. From the first notes of "Snatch It Back and Hold It," you'll be hooked.