Elements of Life The Eclipse (Fania)
Louie Vega and friends kick out a wide-ranging array of hippie jazz, latin funk and plenty more. There's a heavy flower child influence hanging over this, but the Caribbean rhythms and layered sound bring these songs into a decidedly modern context. There's a lot to digest here (24 songs and remixes over 2 discs), but if you can wrap your mind around it, then pleasure awaits.

Emperors Stay Frosty (self-released)
More "back to the 90s" fare. Emperors have that post-grunge sheen down quite nicely, and they temper the anthemic tendencies of their hooks just enough. A pleasant bath for those who miss the days of flannel and PBR.
Contact: emperorsmusic.bandcamp.com

Fathom Lane Down by Half (self-released)
Easy-rollin' roots rock that eases its way. The sound is often gorgeous, in an understated way. These songs come along slowly and deliver a solid payoff.

Kye Alfred Hillig Together Through It All (self-released)
While I'm generally dismayed by artists giving their music away for free, there are gems to had out there. Kye Alfred Hillig has one. This idiosyncratic trip through a variety of rootsy sounds is bracingly original. In a very crowded field, Hillig has created a sound all his own.
Contact: kyealfredhillig.bandcamp.com

Walter Sickert & the Army of Broken Toys Soft Time Traveler (self-released)
Meandering in whatever territory lies between Nick Cave, Tom Waits and the Mekons, Walter Sickert and a cast of thousands (well, more than a dozen) blast out one raggedy anthem after another. The tension seems to rise inexorably as the album progresses, and the final release hardly resets the mood. Intensely arresting.
Contact: www.armyoftoys.com