In art, the zeal of reformed reprobates rarely compensates for their loss of edginess, but here’s happy proof that all aesthetic rules are made to be broken. This is the “classic” Redd Kross lineup that recorded “Neurotica” a quarter century ago. Back then, these Southern California trash collectors offered sloppy, shallow tributes to bubble-gum pop, horror movies, and KISS as an underground alternative to hair-metal hedonism. But now, the quartet’s first album in 15 years opens with two level-headed warnings about boundaries, followed by paeans to blue skies and polite strangers. The retooled and rejuvenated garage rock in these 10 short songs mostly hones the new attitude into modest, charming fun. Instead of just collecting the trash, the taut production by bassist Steven McDonald and the newly accomplished songcraft by vocalist, guitarist, and older brother Jeff now recycle the disparate bygone styles into a streamlined, barreling hybrid of “sha-la-la” choruses and dirty riffs. After 34 years of recording, the brothers think it’s their best collection yet. Again breaking the artistic rule, they may be right. (Out Tuesday)

ESSENTIAL “Stay Away From Downtown”