Dent May's "What's For Breakfast?" is a cloud-like album—beautiful and undeniable, but lacking in substance.

While the instrumentation is sweet-sounding and the lyrics are fine, the album becomes somewhat repetitive and background-worthy. It's easy to get on board with, but it doesn't do enough to stand out.

In six months or a years time, it will remain good music but it's unlikely I'll remember it. - Maryam Ford

Despite a four-year hiatus, Drunk Mums return with an album that showcases their signature DIY thrashy sound, that's right! They've not matured, they've not discovered Disco, they've come back the same.

"New Australia" sets the tone with heavy distortion and bleak lyrics, while "Slippin' Up" offers a frantic, punk-infused anthem. "Mutant" and "Apocalypse" showcase the band's raw, back-to-basics rock approach, while "Livin' At Night" delivers ... read more

Ellie Bleach's latest EP, "Now Leaving West Feldwood" is a haunting and immersive exploration of characters on the brink of their demise. Set in the fictional town of West Feldwood, Bleach paints a vivid tapestry of despair and longing with nuanced lyrics and elaborate musical arrangements.

From the burnt-out star in "That'll Show 'Em" to the scorned spouse on "Lakehouse", Bleach delves into the complexities of human nature, exposing the raw emotions and inner ... read more

Liverpool's Eyesore & The Jinx debut album "Jitterbug" is a triumph of post-punk art rock. Despite the pandemic setbacks that have affected the release, the trio delivers an electrifying ensemble of angular rhythms and astute social commentary.

"No More Nails" is where the album truly kicks off with it's fierce intensity, punctuated by piercing guitar tones and a relentless groove. "Big Brain" pulses with a stomping drum beat and scratchy guitars, creating a ... read more

Faye Webster's fifth album, "Underdressed at the Symphony" offers an introspective glimpse into the artist's psyche.

"Thinking About You" and "Wanna Quit All the Time" demonstrate Webster's ability to blend genres with decent results. The album's best tracks, such as "But Not Kiss" and "Feeling Good Today", provide moments that hint at Webster's artistic capabilities. However, the album falters at times with half-baked ideas and unfulfilled ... read more

Gouge Away's latest album, Deep Sage, is a departure from their previous work, incorporating softer elements of shoegaze and grunge into their signature post-hardcore sound.

While the album showcases the band's growth and experimentation, it also exposes some of their weaknesses.

The album's quieter moments often feel forced and unnatural, lacking the raw intensity that make Gouge Away's contemporaries so compelling. The band's decision to incorporate more melodic elements is admirable, but ... read more

Hannah Frances' fifth album, 'Keeper of the Shepherd', marks a departure from her previous work, as she fully confronts grief and embraces a new chapter in her life.

With her commanding vocals taking center stage, Frances leads a band that creates a dynamic soundscape, ranging from tranquil to explosive. Despite its strengths, the album's focus on Frances' personal journey sometimes overshadows the musicality, leading to the songs occasionally feeling a little unbalanced.

While the album ... read more

Homeshake's 'CD Wallet' is a sonic exploration that deftly blends elements of slow-core and shoegaze with the artist's signature lo-fi aesthetic.

From the melancholy intimacy of "Frayed" to the infectious guitar chords of "Letting Go", the albums emotional depth is undeniable. While the heavier sound and more pronounced guitar focus mark a departure from Homeshake's previous work, it feels like a natural evolution for the artist.

Peter Sagar's falsetto vocals soar ... read more

Les Big Byrd's latest album is a daring departure from traditional psychedelic rock. With experimental structures and extended runtimes, the mad scientists of psych-rock craft a sound like no other.

While some tunes may not immediately resonate, the album's sprawling, immersive soundscapes invite listeners to immerse themselves. Drawing inspiration from disco, jazz, and beyond, 'Diamonds, Rhinestones and Hard Rain' is not a typical album and Les Big Byrd have never been a typical band. ... read more

Marry Waterson and Adrian Crowley's 'Cuckoo Storm' is an intriguing collaboration between two talented singer-songwriters. Waterson's poignant vocal performances are complemented by Crowley's poetic lyrics, creating an earthy soundscape.

The album's opening track, 'Undear Sphere,' serves as a whimsical introduction, while 'The Leviathan' showcases Waterson's vocal prowess. Crowley's presence in 'Watching the Starlings' adds a contemplative touch, and the a cappella 'One Foot of Silver, One ... read more

Moor Mother's enigmatic artistry shines through in her latest album, 'The Great Bailout'. While challenging in its experimentalism, this work casts a penetrating gaze upon profound themes of slavery, racial identity, and their impact on the Black experience.

Moor Mother's evocative spoken word and haunting instrumentals create a jarring and thought-provoking piece. While accessibility may be sacrificed, 'The Great Bailout' remains at it's core an artist's unwavering commitment to confront ... read more

While Rosali Middleman's transition to North Carolina and the Merge roster is evident on 'Bite Down,' the album's mid-tempo rockers and folk influences, reminiscent of Waxahatchee and John Hiatt, lack the depth to match the richness of Middleman's vocals.

The measured pace and warm production create an easy listen, but the album's true staying power may be limited by the lack of exploration beyond your standard Folk Indie. - Samuel Garuba

Don't let the shadow of St. Vincent eclipse the brilliance of Saint Saviour's "Sunseeker". Immerse yourself in the world of Becky Jones as she weaves melodies inspired by the 1960s, evoking a sound reminiscent of Beth Orton and Nick Drake.

Despite its simple acoustic base, "Sunseeker" is adorned with a rich tapestry of chamber-pop elements, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Jones' intimate vocals and honest lyrics resonate deeply, capturing the nuances of love, ... read more

Samlrc's "A Lonely Sinner" is a captivating musical journey that transcends the limitations of indie folk. With its ethereal synths, dreamy guitars, and post-rock crescendos, the album weaves a tapestry of raw emotions and intimate storytelling. Sam's sincere songwriting and lilting voice effortlessly tug at the heartstrings, while the exploratory and unified tracks showcase her artistic maturity and vision.

The album's sheer passion, experimentation, and stunning climaxes make it a ... read more

Savak's latest album, "Flavors of Paradise", marks a departure from their confrontational post-punk roots, embracing a more welcoming and accessible sound.

While the abrasive elements remain, the album's overall tone is brighter and more melodic, reminiscent of classic rock and guitar pop. "Up with the Sun" sets the tone with its chiming jangle and cynical lyrics, while "What Is It Worth" and "Jump into the Night" have the band's newfound melodic ... read more

From the mesmerizing opening notes of "Mashoor", Sheherazaad's "Qasr" grips listeners with its improvisational instrumentation and evocative lyricism. As layers of sound intertwine, a sense of mastery unfolds, promising a experience that feels timeless and often otherworldly.

Sheherazaad's musical journey, rooted in her disconnect from English and her embrace of diverse influences, culminates in this triumph. The album's poignant and beautiful instrumentation leave an ... read more

The Blinders' latest album, 'Beholder', is a darkly romantic odyssey that sees the band reaching new heights. The Doncaster Born, but Manchester based quartet (A Mary Earps type career trajectory) manage to capture the raw energy of their debut, yet they've taken that spark and sent it soaring into more adventurous and cinematic territories. With a richer, more layered sound that still retains their signature punch, there's a newfound unpredictability that adds an exhilarating edge.

But it's ... read more

The Staves' latest album, All Now, is a disappointment. While the duo's signature melodies and harmonies are still present, the songs are nothing new and lack the emotional punch of their previous work.

The lyrics are often clunky and trite. All Now is a repeated step for The Staves, and it's clear that they need to find a new direction if they want to remain relevant. But for now The Staves are still being The Staves and if you are new to them, then maybe you will enjoy this retread. - ... read more

Tomato Flower's 'No' is an exquisite tapestry woven with raw emotion, captivating melodies, and daring musicality. The back story of the album is the relationship breakdown between Wohlers and Murphy and that informs many of the lyrics and song ideas.

Its anthemic tracks soar with intensity and vulnerability. From the opening notes of "Saint", a visceral tension grips you. Austyn Wohlers' haunting vocals pierce through with stark honesty, while Jamison Murphy's defiant yelps ignite ... read more

Uranium Club's fourth album, 'Infants Under the Bulb,' is a mesmerizing journey into the depths of experimentation and creativity.

The Minneapolis outfit pushes the boundaries of their genre, crafting warped, groovy, and unsettling post-grunge.

"Small Grey Man" opens the album with an enigmatic espionage tale, its twangy guitars and evocative lyrics painting a vivid picture of a mysterious protagonist. The addition of a horn section infuses a sense of urgency and intrigue into the ... read more