High Brow – Jónsi/GoSigur Rós lead singer Jónsi Birgisson’s solo debut, “Go,” proves that even alone Birgisson is a force to be reckoned with. Fans of the famed icelandic post-rock group may note the palette of sounds used here differs little from the group’s own efforts, but this album’s more concise compositions make it unique, and tracks like “Go Do” and “Animal Arithmetic” brim with a new energy. The vocalist has nearly ditched Sigur Rós’ trademark Icelandic vernacular, singing mostly in English. In “Tornado,” Jónsi’s falsetto builds over syncopated percussion and strings, swirling upward into a charged emotional climax. A lush, exuberant and successful solo effort.Mid Brow – Erykah Badu/New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the AnkhThose who listened to Erykah Badu’s 2008 album “New Amerykah Part One: 4th World War” experienced a transformed Badu; that effort marked an experimental turn for the R&B songstress. While “New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh” retains the futuristic, progressive bent of its predecessor, it also signals a return to Badu’s soulful side, exploring themes of love among jazzy, organic sounds. Tracks like the masterful first single “Window Seat” and Madlib-produced “Umm Hmm” exemplify the album’s sultry mood and cutting-edge production. All of this may not completely eclipse the ingenuity of “New Amerykah Part One,” but at the very least, it doesn’t disappoint. An exemplary, modern neo-soul album.Low Brow – Barenaked Ladies/All in Good TimeTimes have been tough for Barenaked Ladies. Besides fading from relevance after hitting their prime in the ’90s, their last two studio albums have barely dented the charts. In 2008 they resorted to releasing a children’s album and last year they lost a founding member. Considering, “All in Good Time” finds the band in good spirits and in better shape than expected. The album works primarily because the group has matured enough as songwriters to stay interesting. The Ladies seem comfortable taking lyrical risks, letting tracks like “Four Seconds” and “Summertime” remain loose, jokey jaunts. Elsewhere, a song like “You Run Away” doesn’t come off as anything especially unique, but its willingness to explore a variety of textures do help establish a fresh tone. Unfortunately, at 14 songs, “All in Good Time” slightly overstays its welcome.