A toothsome prancer in Apache war paint and buccaneer drag, Adam Ant delivered the kickiest high-concept camp rock since T. Rex. Ant music – twang guitar, Bo Diddley beats, gigolo teasing – ruled England for one long tinsel moment in the early '80s. But since Manners and Physique (1989), he's been MIA. Wonderful lacks the frothy silliness of Ant at his most atomic, but it's polished, snappy, rhythmic pop. Longtime partner Marco Pirroni and Morrissey sideman Boz Boorer add glam-slam guitar to lascivious strutters like "Beautiful Dream" and "Gotta Be a Sin," and with the standout "Very Long Ride," Adam updates his swagger. This year's model qualifies as a gas. (RS 706)

PAUL EVANS