Singed Earth Policy

Franz Ferdinand, “Take Me Out” (Epic). A rollicking mama-needs-a-new-pair-of-semi-ironic-Converse anthem capable of socking the ennui out of the most lethargic liberals.

Modest Mouse, “Float On” (Sony). Lilting beauty from Seattle mopes that floats like a butterfly and stings like a … butterfly.

The Killers, “Somebody Told Me” (Island). Gender confusion reigns supreme as former boyfriends are mistaken for former girlfriends over a coursing new-wave beat. Everyone is too busy dancing to care.

Jay-Z, “99 Problems” (Def Jam). H-to-the-O-V smashes some philosophical bottles on his wall, frightens little children by allowing Grizzly Adams — er, producer Rick Rubin — to appear in the music video.

U2, “Vertigo” (Universal). Bono, the Edge and Those Other Two Dudes suck famine, world debt and the sound barrier into their vortex. Resistance is futile.