Four albums worth noting this week share one thing in common: They are bold enough to not share anything in common with other releases thus far in 2012.---

Must Have:
It’s hard not to acknowledge the artistry of Santi White -- from her press photos to the stage show to her latest album. The 35 year old takes bouncy pop -- inspired by a trip to Jamaica -- and bends and molds it into crushing dance hits, as well as lulling, inviting softer numbers. Santigold’s Master of My Make-Believe, after four years of waiting, offers a fresh take of uncompromising artistry with a diverse palate.

Santigold’s “Disparate Youth”

And a second must have:
Patrick Watson’s Adventures in Your Own Backyard has been on repeat since it popped up on NPR’s First Listen a week and a half ago. Bob Boilen has been championing the crooner since SXSW, and this delicate, yet resplendent release proves that Watson is worth the national attention.

She don’t give a fuck, she does what she wants:
Norah Jones has teamed up with Danger Mouse -- after the two worked on Rome with Danielle Luppi and Jack White last year -- and the mega-producer has pushed all the right buttons to challenge Jones into far-reaching territory that might make you forget her pop-jazz debut. And Jones is showing her critics and fans that she can’t be confined to the labels cast upon her with this ear candy that meditates on heartbreak. 

“Happy Pills” performed on Later with Jools Holland

The Big Surprise:
On Body Faucet, Reptar blends technical guitar work with punchy lyrical delivery. It’s a dance party with elements of jazz and punk, and is crazy-good for a debut effort. Expect lots of buzz on the Interwebs with this one.

Honorable Mentions:
Lower Dens’ Nootropics, Rufus Wainright’s Out of the Game and Brian Jonestown Massacre’s Aufheben (BJM will play The Urban Lounge May 9).