Songwriter Norman Robbins has gone by multiple aliases in his short career, most notably with his one-man bands Jan Francisco and Walker. But he’s really found his voice with BaLonely, where his lyrics are Lou Reed droll and his frontman energy has the he-could-explode-at-any-moment volatility of young Elvis Costello. The trio’s recent debut LP Stories has a wiry energy, with deceptively catchy hooks and a knowing sense of humor. (The Inlander)