Joe Madden
This record feels like a natural development from their first release, but at the same time a big leap forward. I think the songwriting's better -- definitely more melodic -- and the sound is way lusher, sweeter, and clearer. (Always helps to have Jarvis Taveniere on board.) There's a greater variety of textures, too, including lovely strings on Trust and a more dissonant, mysterious vibe on Hour of the Wolf. Besides those two, Disco and River's Edge are my other favorites.