New Zealand-born vocalist Tamaryn inhabits the same otherworldly realm as forebears Cocteau Twins, Kate Bush, and Xmal Deutschland. Her collaborations with Dum Dum Girls, Drew McDowall (of Coil and Psychic TV), and former bandmate Rex John Shelverton showcased a dense and shoegazing wall of sound, but on 2015's Cranekiss, guitars give way to celestial synth pads and Tamaryn's vocals become the focus. The more polished dream-pop sound is tinged with vulnerability, and the whole album is imbued with a distinctly feminine sensuality. DANIELA SERNA