New and Notable

Dave Alvin, “Public Domain,” HighTone. Alvin’s set of old folk songs lovingly brought to life demonstrates that human afflictions are never far from the minds of pop artists, whatever the era. (Natalie Nichols)

Cubanismo!, “Mardi Gras Mambo,” Hannibal. The teaming of this Havana group with ace New Orleans musicians is a natural. Even something as potentially hokey as the Cubanized version of the R&B; novelty “Mother in Law” is irresistible fun. (Steve Hochman)

Kirk Franklin, “Kirk Franklin Presents 1NC,” B-Rite Music. There’s a Latin undercurrent to several tracks, and more of a pop-rock angle on others, but that doesn’t mean the innovative gospel renegade has watered down his style. (Connie Johnson)

Wyclef Jean, “The Ecleftic--2 Sides II a Book,” Columbia. The Fugee’s second solo album is more hip-hop-minded than his debut, but it’s still a freewheeling, wildly eclectic affair. (Robert Hilburn)

Kool Keith, “Matthew,” Funky Ass/Threshold. The rap eccentric delivers another round of his seemingly aimless but nonetheless engaging rants. His fans would expect nothing less, as half of the fun of Kool Keith’s music is trying to figure it all out. (Soren Baker)

Suicidal Tendencies, “Free Your Soul--And Save My Mind,” Suicidal. The L.A. punk pioneers return with heavy, noisy, even funky tunes, with themes you’d expect (destruction, dissension, hating Britney Spears) and thoughtful commentary you might not (racial pride, the media, relationships). (Lina Lecaro)

Victoria Williams, “Water to Drink,” Atlantic. To her usual understated ruminations, Williams has added a handful of standards, and she brings a child’s sense of wonder to sentiments we’ve heard thousands of times before. (Marc Weingarten)

D.J. Revolution, “In 12’s We Trust,” Millenia/Nu Gruv. One of the year’s best hip-hop collections features skilled scratching as well as sound bites of artists paying homage to DJs and their contributions. (S.B.)