Tomorrow’s New Releases Revealed Today

Welcome to On The Shelf, Idolator’s weekly look at albums that are hitting store shelves on Tuesday. The big release this week for the bloggers is Volta, the new album from musical omnivore Bjork; after the jump, we look at that album, as well as new releases from Mike Jones, The View, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, and the Mary Timony Band.

Bjork, Volta The artist: Bewitching Icelandic exclamation-point user and a supporting cast that includes Timbaland, Antony Hegarty, and Konono No. 1. The sound: Scraps of sounds from all over the galaxy, pasted together with glee. The first in line: This guy.

Mike Jones, The American Dream The artist: Houston hip-hop impresario who can’t wait for your phone call. The sound: Blippy beats and and unbridled shoutouts … to Mike Jones. The first in line: Americans named Mike Jones. (It’s always nice to have anthems to yourself.)

The View, Hats Off To The Buskers The artist: Scottish next-big-kids who have had a bit of a rough time crossing the pond. The sound: The next Arctic Monkeys! Or something. The first in line: Fans of “Mis-Shapes who aren’t so sure about the MisShapes.

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Strength & Loyalty The artist: Cleveland vocal-rap group whose “Tha Crossroad” is one of the ’90s greatest laments. The sound: More love, less thug (and guest spots from half of R & B, including Akon, Mariah Carey, and Swizz Beatz). The first in line: Michelle Malkin’s assistant.

Mary Timony Band, The Shapes We Make The artist: Growly guitar goddess and a pair of pals. The sound: Chunky, twisty, knotty strands of prog-influenced indie rock. The first in line: Willie Mae Rock Camp counselors.

On The CD Front [Pause & Play]