Strays

Jane’s Addiction haven’t made an album in 13 years and, listening to Strays, it definitely shows. There’s no rust per se on these alt-rock pioneers; it’s just that nobody makes albums this huge anymore. Defiantly slick and retro, Strays roars like classic arena rock, with Perry Farrell’s intergalactic howls taking a backseat to Dave Navarro’s guitar. There’s no doubt it’s Navarro’s record: His monster riffs power “Superhero” and his bluesy licks put the strut in “Wrong Girl.” It’s all about as subtle as a kick in the nuts, but equally effective for knocking you on your ass.