Shaggy – “Clothes Drop”

Shaggy still sounds like he’s swallowed a frog, and you still have no clue what he’s singing about. But at least you’ll be bopping your head to his boombastic reggae beats. With a plethora of orgasmic sound samples, Shaggy, aka Mr. Lover, wastes no time easing you into his hedonistic world. “Shut Up and Dance” and “Broadway” could have easily been summer dance anthems, had it not been for the late release of this disc. Then again, it’s always summer in San Diego.

– Michael Kuhlmann

Ginuwine – “Back II Da Basics”

It’s an epic disappointment when the intro, interlude and outro of your comeback album sound better than the full-length tracks squished in between.

Ginuwine’s latest release doesn’t quite get “Back II Da Basics,” since he doesn’t capture the “Pony” Genuwine of 1996. Still, the slow, lovey-dovey R&B songs like “Betta Half” (for your upcoming Valentine’s Day) are the perfect replacements for those Aaron Hall, Dru Hill and Boyz II Men grooves.

– MICHAEL KUHLMANN

Duncan Sheik – “White Limousine”

A dozen tranquil and somber melodies comprise the emotive set on “White Limousine,” Duncan Sheik’s long-awaited new album (in stores Tuesday), and some tracks are sure to make Midori’s “Big Sonic Chill” radio program.

The Garden State native trained his voice, no doubt, which makes for an effortless communication of solemn words. Sheik’s departure from the pop realm since 1996 has garnered him much support from his loyal fan base. And though he’s slightly reinvented himself, his stylistic nuances of dreary lyrics are still there – Hey Casanova, you don’t look too good / But I know times are tough.

– MICHAEL KUHLMANN

Jimmy Eat World – “Stay on My Side Tonight”

Jim Adkins walks you through a slow and painful heartbreak on his aptly titled EP. His lyrics don’t fall victim to the classic let-me-die emo mantra, and the remixed “Drugs or Me” might even represent a departure from that genre.

It’s reminiscent of Frou Frou, with its stuttering sound samples and distorted bass line. Adkins also adds a vital touch of reality on “Disintegration,” with his melancholic words, This poison comes instruction free / Do what you want but I’m drinking.

– MICHAEL KUHLMANN

Jamiroquai – “Dynamite”

Jamiroquai’s “Dynamite” could be the soundtrack to a groovy 1970s fashion show with its strange, eclectic mix of experimental electro-rock, rock-funk and disco-pop beats. Jason Kay provides lots of ear candy on “Electric Mistress,” which sounds like it’s been phased through a Super Mario Bros. game. Most of the sing-along choruses are tailored to the dance floor, but “Dynamite” is one psychedelic ride that just needs more TNT.

– MICHAEL KUHLMANN

O.A.R. – “Stories of a Stranger”

Take one part Dave Matthews Band, one part Slightly Stoopid and an ounce of the Verve Pipe, stir it up and you’ve got O.A.R. Surprisingly, the reggae-pop-rock mixology works.

The grass-roots quintet distills any notion that it’s just another garage band with such catchy tunes as “Program Director,” “Dakota” and “Lay Down.” Frontman Marc Roberge finally serves what his audience has craved for nine years – a crisp production with a bold sound. O.A.R.’s refined delivery on “Stories of a Stranger” is a quantum leap from its days of playing frat parties.

– MICHAEL KUHLMANN

Blues Traveler – “Bastardos!”

John Popper cooks up a musical jambalaya that blends rock, blues, soul and even a dash of funk on the band’s ninth album. On “After What,” he translates his recent roller-coaster love life into a cathartic verse, singing Don’t blame heaven or hell / You’ll have to look to your self.

But while the album has sizzling momentum on a syrupy “Amber Awaits,” it simmers down too soon. “Nail” and “Rubberneck” are among the best tracks revolving the heartache theme, yet they can’t compensate for messy and sometimes mushy lyrics thereafter. Popper creates a wholesome, 14-song set, but, unfortunately, his concoctions are an acquired taste.

– MICHAEL KUHLMANN