The Barometer: Cass McCombs; Vivian Girls; Major Lazer; DAF; The Decemberists; Beastie Boys

Cass McCombs Dreams Come True Girl

This sunny 50s-tinged pop opener from Catacombs finds Californian crooner Cass McCombs at his best.

Vivian Girls When I'm Gone

Surf-rock, punk and shoegaze combine in the first track from the Brooklyn trio's new album, Everything Goes Wrong, which arrives in September.

Major Lazer Keep it Goin' Louder

On their latest collaboration, scene-defining DJs Diplo and Switch display a knack for sublime, day-glo pop.

DAF Mein Herz Macht Bum

German duo in their early-80s pomp show what synth-pop should be like: dark, dangerous and dirty.

The Decemberists The Hazards of Love 3 (Revenge!)

The US alt-folk rockers sing about shape-shifting demons in a twisted tribute to English folk music.

Beastie Boys Sure Shot

As their 1994 album Ill Communication is reissued, it's a perfect moment to relive the brilliance of the record's flute-sampling opening salvo.