Five new albums to try this week: Aphex Twin, alt-J and more

Aphex Twin – Syro (Warp)

Why you should listen: Aphex Twin is back. After about 13 years. And no one really has a handle on batshit electronic music quite like he does, as Syro proves track after track.

It might not be for you if… The horrifying album artwork put you off, and you wish he’d just released the record gimmick-free. Let the music speak for itself, mate.

What we said: “By sounding simply like a series of Aphex Twin tracks, Syro is still utterly engrossing and remains, somewhat unbelievably, on a completely different planet to almost anything else that’s been released over the last decade and a half”, wrote Tim Jonze, for the Guardian. Head here for Killian Fox’s four-star review in the Observer.

Score: 4/5

Perfume Genius – Too Bright (Turnstile)

Why you should listen: Perfume Genius’ Mike Hadreas produces another beautiful album, based around his personal experiences as former addict perpetually on the defensive against homophobic attacks. It’s not preachy, and ventures into new electronic territory for the artist.

It might not be for you if… You preferred the hushed, understated Perfume Genius of 2010, and aren’t sure what to make of this bold new direction.

What we said: “In the spaces between the sedately familiar resides something glittering, defiant and avowedly queer”, wrote Maddy Costa, in the Guardian.

Score: 4/5

alt-J – This is All Yours (Sony)

Why you should listen: If you’ve been eagerly anticipating the follow-up to 2012’s Mercury Prize winner, then this latest collection of vastly textured tracks – with a little less of An Awesome Wave’s clatter and clutter – should please.

It might not be for you if… You refuse to buy into the hype surrounding the trio, Miley Cyrus sample and all.

What we said: “Minus departed bassist Gwil Sainsbury, their second album exhibits the playful adventure Radiohead didn’t exhibit until their fourth, Kid A,” wrote Dave Simpson, in the Guardian.

Score: 4/5

Leonard Cohen – Popular Problems (Columbia)

Why you should listen: Cohen releases this album as he turns 80, with his voice sounding stronger than it has in years and his poetic songwriting tackling death and mortality as deftly as ever.

It might not be for you if… You don’t like old poets who make art? Come on, now.

What we said: “A man who seemed to be running dry discovered he had much more to say musically and, moreover, that he was now broadcasting it from uncharted territory for rock music,” wrote Alexis Petridis, in his lead review for the Guardian. Kitty Empire also gave the album four stars, in her Observer review.

Score: 4/5

Tweedy – Sukierae (dBpm/Anti)

Why you should listen: Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy releases this double album of alt-country, meant to be enjoyed in full and experienced like a flippable vinyl record.

It might not be for you if… You’re holding out for the next Wilco record. You’ll pass on this solo stuff for now.

What we said: “Not quite a solo effort (his 18-year-old son, Spencer, helps out on drums), Sukierae is another album to savour,” wrote Phil Mongredien, in the Observer.

Score: 4/5

Which albums are you looking forward to hearing this week? Tell all in the comments section, and help us enrich one another’s listening lists.