Barelydead

"In Ribbons" is definitely not a groundbreaking record. Nothing here distinguishes Pale Saints from their competitors, except maybe from the general lack of guitar distortion, that is common on shoegaze records. I also felt that many songs sounded like variations of the same song. However, "In Ribbons" is a relatively solid listen, with some catchy and memorable songs, I also liked the performances of the two vocalists.

Highlights: "Throwing Back The Apple", ... read more

"Goodbye Lucille #1" is an near perfect song, but what about the rest of the album? Well its melodies are too sugary and slow and its terribly dated production makes even the decent songs sound bland.

Highlights: "Goodby Lucille"

Who would have thought Belinda Carlisle's solo records, were actually pretty good. Her debut album is filled with up-tempo, catchy pop songs with big choruses. The album is overproduced, but I think that helps it sound more uplifting, which is definitely not bad thing. Still, of all of Belinda's albums, her debut is the one that sounds the most dated, due to its charming yet dated bassline/drum-pattern.

Highlights: "Mad About You", "Gotta Get to You"

Side A: 7.8
Side B: 6.2

"Philharmony" is overall a weird, disorganized album, the first half contains minimal and experimental synth pop/ electronic pieces that are colourful, some of them are carefree and bright, while others are darker. The first half doesn't have cohesion, but contains the album's highlights. The second half is less experimental, and more consumable pop material which is too cheesy for my taste.

Highlights: "Funiculi Funicura", "Luminescent / ... read more