It’s too easy to compare Fop to orchestral pop greats such as the Moody Blues or Brian Wilson’s Beach Boys, but one can’t help notice the classic stylings of Hoffman’s production and songwriting. Songs like the harpsichordand- piano ballad “Cassandra” or the dramatic opening track “Something New is Born” deserve multiple listens; the first time through, you go on a journey that begs paying more attention the second. Fop is one of the most original pop records of the year. (Kayo Stereophonic | kristianhoffman.com)