Rufus Wainwright: Out of the Game

Distinctive tunes from a very distinct artist mark this album from beginning to end, climaxing with the epic, extended “Candles.” Powerhouse producer Mark Ronson’s unmistakable influence dominates Wainwright’s performances throughout. One pop-out, the dramatic and discordant third track, “Rashida,” about Ronson’s former girlfriend, actress Rashida Jones, makes us wonder how they broke up. May 1. Decca Records (rufuswainwright.com). —Nancy Ford