Vindication by Queensryche.  It certainly is.  This self titled album with the new singer is the best since Mindcrime.  Yup, it's slightly better than Empire.  Tate can suck an egg.  8.9 of 10.

Swimmer's Ear by Nerves Junior.  Fairly interesting.  I would never seek this band out but I'm not annoyed.  7.9 of 10.

Best New Face by Styx.  This, on the other hand, is annoying as shit in either hand.  Yech.  6.0 of 10.

Johnny Appleseed by Joe Strummer And The Mescaleros.  One of the best songs ever written and performed.  9.9 of 10.

Sandy by Whirr.  Atmospheric rock should only be done by real professionals.  Keep at it Whirr, you might get there one day.  7.0 of 10.