One of the biggest surprises of the last year and a half was the news that Redd Kross was releasing new music with a reunion of its Neurotica era lineup.; so of course I was curious.  On their latest, Redd Kross kicks out the jams with some mostly high energy melodic rockers that proudly draws from a mix of 60s garage rock, vintage sunshine pop, punk, and psychedelic rock into their sonic stew.  Lyrically, the band's habit of being able to subtly blend personal themes with hints of pop culture in uenxpected ways is still evident throughout.  Blend these factors together and Researching The Blues is audio journey that manages to freshen up vintage rock vibes while putting a smile on your face.  Kudos to Redd Kross for releasing one of the best albums of late 2012.  (BOONE)

(Merge Records.  P.O. Box 1235. Chapel Hill, NC 27514.  mergerecords.com)