Switchfoot Oh Gravity (Smoke)

On its third major-label album, 2006's OH GRAVITY, the San Diego-based alternative-rock ensemble Switchfoot widens its musical scope even further than on previous outings, resulting in its most immediately engaging release. Although the band has never completely pulled away from its Christian roots, the record's themes are not blatantly religious, giving the group a remarkably broad appeal, as best evidenced on the guitar-driven title track, a surging power-pop tune, and "Dirty Second Hands," a bold number awash in Beatles-meets-Led Zep grandiosity. While some fans may continue to search for Switchfoot's CCM connections, most listeners will be too busy rocking to notice.

• Genre: Pop
• Released: 06/29/2018
• Format: Vinyl