Nada SurfLuckyBarsuk RecordsFour out of five stars

Yes, this is the same Nada Surf that won our hearts with the ’96 single “Popular.” And no, this is not a comeback. The Brooklyn trio has been producing quirky, indie-pop gems ever since — much to the chagrin of its former major label bosses who failed to see “Popular”-potential in its more recent endeavors. So, Nada Surf went DIY, self-releasing The Proximity Effect in 2000 and joining indie label Barsuk to release 2002’s Let Go and 2005’s The Weight Is a Gift. Culled from the finer moments of these two records, Lucky is a collage of adorable but still obscure pop tunes. If tracks like “See These Bones” — an appreciating, almost-Brit pop anthem brought to life by endearing poetry — have their way, Nada Surf is bound regain its popularity without sacrificing its ’90s, alt-rock integrity.

Missy Higgins On a Clear NightReprise RecordsThree out of five stars

Already certified platinum in her homeland of Australia, Missy Higgins’ On a Clear Night promises to provide a comforting dose of Lilith Fair empowerment to a generation devoid of yesteryear’s McClachlans, Etheridges and Loebs. Higgins builds on her folksy, female influences with a masterful sense for modern pop melody. The title-track, “On A Clear Night,” maintains its mature songwriting style while ringing equal parts Imogen Heap pop and Eisley nu-folk. The album fails to breach territory unexplored by her now-prolific mother-figures but this only establishes Higgins’ right to carry the fem-rock torch.