Animal Rights

In a baffling move, the artist formerly known as the techno prince forsakes computers for metallic guitars, punky ravings, and prog-rock instrumentals. Alas, the synthesized sterility that works so well for ambient doesn’t translate to hardcore; much of the album feels arid, extra dry. Scattered amidst the 16 erratic tracks are several gems — including the jackhammer rant ”Come On Baby” and the instrumental ”Alone,” with its sad, rain-pellet beats. If the aural beauty of previous Moby aimed for transcendence, the intentionally ugly Animal Rights brings everything crashing back down to earth.