New music: 12 acts to listen for in 2012

James McCartney

Yes, that McCartney. Sir Paul’s boy is following in his footsteps and recently released “The Complete EP Collection,” a two-disc set (co-produced by his dad) that combines two earlier digital-only EPs and five new tracks, including a cover of Neil Young’s “Old Man.” While some may hold him to an impossible standard, the younger McCartney’s promising pop-rock tunes make clear he’s learned a few lessons about melody, phrasing, and charm. He’ll appear on “The Late Show with David Letterman” on Jan. 30.

— Sarah Rodman