Buckcherry, 'Black Butterfly'

Backstory: These L.A. rockers hit it big in 1999 with the blow-friendly anthem “Lit Up,” but seemingly disappeared after a failed follow-up. Two years ago, the group reformed with several new members, signed to an indie label and somehow scored several radio hits and a platinum album. Will the music world’s most surprising comeback continue?
 
Why you should care: If the sleazy, blues-tinged hard rock of Velvet Revolver, later-era the Cult and prime AC/DC get you revved up, there’s little else out there besides Buckcherry. And frontman Josh Todd wisely mixes it up, mixing drug-fueled tall tales (“Too Drunk…”) with genuine pathos and regret (“Dreams”).
 
Verdict: Catchy, yes, but the nihilism is starting to win out. “Rescue Me” and “Dreams” strongly hint that the band is tiring of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle—and, unfortunately, the music here reflects that, leaning a little bit too much toward the ballads and apologetic introspection. Still, “Don’t Go Away” is a slow jam winner and surefire rock-radio hit.
 
X-Factor: FYI, neither “Too Drunk…” nor “Cream” are covers—and, though both are pretty good, they won’t make your forget the Dead Kennedys and Prince songs of the same name.