On her first full-length solo project, B-52’s mainstay Kate Pierson combines kitschy fun with socially conscious commentary amid a frothy mix of ‘80s new wave and contemporary pop sounds. Guitars and Microphones radiates positive vibes, whether it affirms artistic freedom (“Throw Down the Roses”), stands up for nature (“Bring Your Arms”), or sings out for LGBT pride (“Mister Sister”). Bolstered by songwriting input from executive producer Sia Furler and guitar riffage from The Strokes’ Nick Valensi, Pierson turns the album into a freewheeling celebration of life, love, and cosmic liberation.