X Infinity

George Watsky's fourth proper album reckons with the inconsequentiality of existence with a "live it up" perspective. Produced mostly by longtime collaborator Kush Mody, its stylistic range is broad and colorful. Through "Chemical Angel," with shades of the Beach Boys and Simon & Garfunkel, and lively strings that lift "Yes Britannia" and "Brave New World," among other cuts, it verges on kaleidoscopic. The characteristically high percentage of rhymes seemingly written and recorded strictly to impress is not bound to win over those who have passed on Watsky's past work. Ultimately, this is his brightest, most accomplished release yet. Anderson Paak, producer of 2014's All You Can Do, contributes to "Midnight Heart," one of the leaner and more effective tracks, where Watsky encapsulates the album's theme: "It's tough to care about stupid bullshit all of the time." ~ Andy Kellman