Kesha / Rainbow

Sans the dollar sign that made her the ubiquitous party girl of punk pop from 2010-2013, Kesha (once Ke$ha) has come out of a turbulent year with a new album that speaks to her truth ? not an image conjured up for her by those who controlled her artistry back in the dollar-sign days. It’s her third album, but in so many ways it feels like her first because Dr. Luke is no longer pulling the punches or the strings, and Kesha is entirely in charge of her own persona ? and her own musical destiny.

There’s plenty of pop on Rainbow, so don’t worry. But you’ll also get a taste of the folk singer (“Bastards”), as well as hints of country (there’s even a Dolly Parton cameo on “Old Flames”!). This is a woman who isn’t afraid to experiment to find what her second act should be. And, while it might throw some listeners off, I think it’s exciting there are so many divergent musical genres melded together on one solid, 14-song, 48-minute album. “Boots” is pure pop; “Woman” is a rocking empowerment anthem; and if you’re the type who needs to sing along to a catchy chorus, “Learn to Let Go” is your jam.

The musical surprises are many, but most of all, you will be impressed by the fact that Kesha has emerged/returned as much more than just the dancefloor party riot Dr. Luke conjured up for the masses. She’s an authentic talent who shows off her range on Rainbow with an honest conviction that is most welcome.

For more information, visit keshaofficial.com.

Mike WOOD

Owl Company / Horizon

You know exactly what you’re in store for from the get-go on Owl Company’s Horizon as police sirens blare over a loud static intro. It’s pandemonium without any warning, and Owl Company wants us to know they have their foot firmly on the pedal. What follows is a smooth ride that hits overdrive, knocking into few speed bumps along the way.

The debut album from this hard-rocking quartet, Horizon is a solid effort. They seem to know their way around crafting an album pretty well already and hit many of the right notes. “Celebrate and Kneel” is a fast-paced barn-burner, while “Ain’t Time for This” is its more groove-oriented cousin. Singer Enrico Minelli screams and hollers, but he’s best on the radio-ready “Riddles,” with a strong and soulful blues delivery.

Horizon isn’t without its filler, and that’s too bad, but somewhat expected. You hope for a debut album to be wall-to-wall of nothing but solid songs, but that’s rarely the case. The filler here isn’t terrible or cheap, but it kills the album’s pace. “Bullet Proof Innocence,” for instance, gets forgotten and lost in the muck.

Heavy, angry and with a bluesy core, Owl Company’s Horizon is a reminder that there are still young bands out there waving the rock flag, and that’s a good thing.

For more information, visit Owl Company’s Facebook page.

Jason SAVIO