With the band Green on Red in the '80s, Prophet was as influential as Dream Syndicate in fomenting the Paisley Underground. They not only inspired R.E.M. but also laid the foundation for Prophet's terrific, if underappreciated, solo career. He's spent the last two decades exploring Americana on a dozen redoubtable albums. The title of his latest, Temple Beautiful, references a long-defunct San Fran club, setting the tone for an album that exults and explores his longtime home. Like his last several exemplary releases, this one's driven by Prophet's clever speak-sing, driving rock rhythms and a rootsy mien. —Chris Parker