Thomas Smith

Everything But the Girl - Fuse
NME
80
'Fuse', their first album since 1999, is imbued with the sounds of today for a shimmering, immensely satisfying return.
Blondshell - Blondshell
NME
100
Urgent, funny and fearless, the LA artist's debut album sees her imbue her rage with wit and fierce ambition.
Black Country, New Road - Live at Bush Hall
NME
80
Following the departure of a key member, the Londoners had to find a way forward. This live album proves a celebratory reintroduction.
Depeche Mode - Memento Mori
NME
80
Following the passing of beloved bandmate Andy Fletcher, the now-duo reunite on a touching, resurgent record.
slowthai - UGLY
NME
100
The Northampton artist enlists Fontaines D.C., Shygirl and more on this exhilarating return to his punk-rap roots.
Gorillaz - Cracker Island
NME
80
The band's first post-pandemic record eschews industry-busting rollouts or a concept-heavy narrative, instead showing their influence on pop's present and future.
Inhaler - Cuts & Bruises
NME
80

‘Cuts & Bruises’ leaves space for Inhaler to grow and continue developing a sound more distinctly their own.

Ice Spice - Like..?
NME
80
On her first extended release since her viral breakout, the inescapable rapper proves that her gift is her star power.
Måneskin - RUSH!
NME
60
The Italian band cap off a whirlwind period by sticking to their guns in the face of industry bluster and interference.
Little Simz - NO THANK YOU
NME
80
The case for Simz to be recognised as a true modern great has only been strengthened with this release.
Arctic Monkeys - The Car
NME
100
The band’s spectacular seventh album summarises their story so far: sharp songwriting, relentless innovation and unbreakable teamwork.
Jack White - Entering Heaven Alive
NME
80
Released just three months after 'Fear Of The Dawn', the concluding part of the former White Stripe’s twin album collection showcases his often breathtaking artistry.
Steve Lacy - Gemini Rights
NME
80
Lacy's songs remain seriously steamy, and now his musical palette is more refined and vibrant than ever.
Arcade Fire - The Lightning I, II
NME
100

The Canadians' masterful first official single in five years channels the spirituality of 'Neon Bible' and the twinkling piano motifs of 'The Suburbs'.

Dora Jar - Comfortably In Pain
NME
100
The New York-based artist's new collection fuses alt-rock and pop for a distinctly unique and thrilling listen.
Yard Act - The Overload
NME
80
The Leeds band's debut is a wild ride through their Yorkshire upbringing, and the curly characters they picked up along the way.
The Killers - Pressure Machine
NME
80

After two decades of bombast, the band's contemplative concept album finds frontman Brandon Flowers reconnecting with his roots.

Aziya - We Speak of Tides
NME
80
The British rising star wants to be a face for those who rarely see themselves represented as guitar players.
beabadoobee - Our Extended Play
NME
80

Repeat listens showcase a project that’s rewarding for both listeners and, by the sounds of it, the artists involved.

Pale Waves - Who Am I?
NME
80

Personal awakenings are the driving force behind the Manchester group's second album, which was borne out of hardship that they never shy away from.

Billie Eilish - Therefore I Am
NME
100
Billie fuses critical philosophy with a swipe at the haters on her thrilling new single, a deliciously spicy tale that will no doubt have fans decoding every line.
Gorillaz - Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez
NME
80
‘Strange Timez’s real triumph is in the curation of its featured artists – a flagrant disregard for the rule of six has resulted in some spectacular moments.
beabadoobee - Fake It Flowers
NME
100

The leap from bedroom-dweller to teenage riot instigator has been a swift and fruitful one, and what could be considered derivative is genuine in every sense.

Dominic Fike - What Could Possibly Go Wrong
NME
80

The Florida star's debut album pays tribute to guitar heroes of the past while adding a fresh alt-pop edge.

Kali Uchis - TO FEEL ALIVE
NME
80
‘To Feel Alive’ is a satisfying recap of the journey so far, reminding us of the sheer power of her voice and her outsider mentality. Few, if any, are even close to being on a similar wavelength.

April Playlist