M. Ward — he's been key to the success of both She & Him and Monsters of Folk and boasts six previous solo releases that have won him acclaim. Still,took many by surprise. Ward hits new heights of artistic progression, delivering an instantly gratifying record of articulate ballads, with that signature nostalgic bent we've grown so fond of. He's toned down the overtly gleeful theatrics of his collaborative efforts, using his solo output to offer us more contemplative substance. Fortunately, Ward continues to engage us in the timeless fashion of a true entertainer. His songwriting has always spun a common thread through Brian Wilson, John Lennon and Nick Drake, but we can now add Louis Armstrong to the list.features a fantastic cover of Armstrong's "I Get Ideas" buttriumphantly as Father John Misty. Can't wait to hear what musical mischief he conjures next.(Six Shooter)Amelia Curran makes loss and regret sound so appealing. The St. John's, NL artist's sixth album is another chapter in her compelling exploration of the raw places in the human psyche. Since her 2009 Juno Award-winning album, Curran has sharpened her skills and come out with an album that takes her subtle melodies and devastating lyrical poetry to the next level. With John Critchley (Dan Mangan, Elliott Brood) in the producer's seat,has a richer sound than we've heard from Curran before. Her sad songs are less desolate than they've been in the past, boasting lavish horn- and string-filled arrangements. Backing vocals come courtesy of Selina Martin, Oh Susanna and the Once, and Martin