ANDREW BIRD: My Finest Work Yet (Loma Vista)

THE Chicago singer, songwriter and violinist has been making albums for two decades and contributed to The Muppets soundtrack in 2011. But this wryly titled collection — coupled with a UK tour in June — feels like a bid for wider success. Backed by guitars, piano and, ahem, whistling, he shows concern for America’s future (‘It’s hard to be an optimist’), but counteracts his disquiet with some exquisite tunes.