Empire (Bonus Track Version)

With a name partly inspired by Tom Meighan’s <i>Star Wars</i> obsession and a fresh batch of unashamedly huge assaults on the senses, <i>Empire</i> initially looks like more of the same from Kasabian. But, beyond the glammy stomp of “Shoot the Runner,” the Leicester outfit’s second record contains fascinating multitudes. “Me Plus One” is a whirl of kaftan-clad psychedelia, “Stuntman” conjures a throbbing electronic rave and “British Legion” (featuring a rare lead vocal from Serge Pizzorno) is bracingly tender.