New and Notable

Steve Earle, “Transcendental Blues,” E-Squared/Artemis. Earle weaves several styles into a work that finds him making welcome progress in distinguishing between his healthy and destructive impulses. Another of his compelling collections about the restlessness of the human spirit. (Robert Hilburn)

Eminem, “The Marshall Mathers LP,” Aftermath/Interscope. The rapper puts on disc all the forbidden thoughts and scandalous scenarios that accompany adolescence and just watches the fallout. The creative advance is in the way he weaves more autobiographical elements into the lyrics. (R.H.)

Grandaddy, “The Sophtware Slump,” V2. Singer-songwriter Jason Lytle targets human vanity and limitations, set against a fuzzy, almost dreamlike musical framework. “The Sophtware Slump” radiates with the observation and ambition of a striking new voice. (R.H.)

Jurassic 5, “Quality Control,” Interscope. The rap sextet favors lighthearted, gun-free stories of life in Los Angeles. On its debut album, Jurassic takes a decidedly fresh route with its lyrics and music. (Soren Baker)