In his latest musical offering, "Hurting" Irish musician Liam McCay, known by his stage name Sign Crushes Motorist, takes listeners on an introspective journey through the depths of mental anguish and resilience. Despite the album being crafted during a tumultuous period in McCay's life, his unwavering spirit shines through the ten heartfelt tracks, providing a beacon of hope for those battling similar inner demons.
With its emotive lyrics and dreamy lo-fi production, ... read more
You may hear the term "Slacker Rock" applied to the London based trio Bar Italia, I think we can assume that references their laid back style and offbeat persona's rather than their work ethic. Having already released one of the Indie highlights of the year, "Tracey Denim" back in May, you might expect most bands to not bother releasing anything else for another year or two but these "Slackers" are an exception, a beacon of originality in a sea of sameness, ... read more
John Francis Flynn's creative audacity shines through on his sophomore album, "Look Over the Wall, See the Sky". It shatters the boundaries of traditionalism, seamlessly blending time-honored ballads with an eclectic tapestry of electronic soundscapes, distorted textures, and industrial undertones. Flynn's bold vision results in an album that is both deeply rooted in tradition and utterly forward-thinking.
Flynn's musical prowess is undeniable, weaving intricate guitar lines, ... read more
After recently listening to the highly anticipated album by 99LETTERS, 'Zigoku / 地獄' I have to say, I was left feeling underwhelmed. While the sound quality and instrumentation was undeniably top-notch, the overall structure of the pieces lacked creativity and originality. The songs all seemed to blend together, with no distinct differences in style or tone. Furthermore, the vocals were unimpressive and added no depth to the tracks.
Overall, 'Zigoku / 地獄' failed to leave a lasting ... read more
The debut album 'Quarter Life Crisis' by Baby Queen is a raw and honest exploration of the struggles and vulnerabilities of a twentysomething in today's world.
South African singer-songwriter Arabella Latham, otherwise known as Baby Queen, has had an impressive start to her career, earning accolades such as making the BBC Sound of 2022 shortlist and touring with pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo.
The album showcases Baby Queen's scrappy and outsider persona, with songs revolving around themes of ... read more
Bas Jan emerge this month with their third album, "Back to the Swamp" a captivating fusion of post-punk and introspective lyricism. This eclectic masterpiece showcases the band's maturation and their ability to craft thought-provoking songs that resonate with the complexities of modern life.
The album's title track, "Back to the Swamp" is a haunting exploration of nostalgia and longing, as the band weaves intricate melodies and sparse instrumentation to create a hypnotic ... read more
"I wasn't waving at you either, I was waving at my friend" twin vocalists Freddy Vinehill-Cliffe and Kelly Bishop bellow at each other in opening track "Not Waving" on their second album, "Making Sounds for Andy". The album is a testament to their ability to deconstruct and reconstruct musical boundaries, creating a unique and captivating listening experience. The album's strength lies in its minimalist approach, where every note, every beat, and every vocal ... read more
In Delilah Holliday's third album, 'Invaluable Vol. 1 & 2,' she ventures into urban DIY, showcasing a buoyant and self-assured musical direction.
The former Skinny Diet Girl member's evident enjoyment in this new path, coupled with moments of abstraction and transportation, elevates this album above the crowded 'Art Pop' scene. While the record may not break new ground, its infectious bouncy club vibes make it a worthy listen. - Lea A. Christiansen
Frog's fifth album, 'Grog', fails to make a mark. Despite critical acclaim, the album lacks the cohesion needed to stand out and is largely underwhelming. Its eclectic mix of genres feels disjointed, and the lyrical content lacks depth. While Frog's loyal fanbase may appreciate the album's quirky charm, it's unlikely to win over new listeners. - Beatrix Reid
In Ghost Woman's latest album, "Hindsight Is 50/50" multi-instrumentalist Evan Üschenko and percussionist Ille van Dessel have conjured a musical odyssey that transcends genres and eras. Their collaboration has birthed an incredible piece that's both innovative and deeply rooted in rock's rich history.
Throughout the album's 10 tracks, Ghost Woman effortlessly weaves psychedelic influences with modern soundscapes. Tracks like "Alright Alright" and "Buik" ... read more
Hilary Woods' latest musical offering, Acts of Light, is a testament to her mastery in crafting haunting soundscapes that weave a mesmerizing tapestry of darkness and ethereal beauty. With an unwavering commitment to her singular vision, Woods conjures an immersive experience that captivates the listener from the very first note.
The album's nine hypnotic compositions unveil themselves like whispers from a mystical realm, each track a distinct entity yet seamlessly interconnected, forming a ... read more
With "Where R U" HONESTY delivers a sound that brings back the UK Bass scene and electronic music of the 1980s. Drawing inspiration from the post-punk genre, the album blends various influences, creating an intriguing soundscape.
Reminiscent of fellow Leeds band I Like Trains and even a dash of the synth poppers Tears for Fears, HONESTY's music captivates listeners with its pulsating rhythms and distopian synths. The EP's niche appeal might limit its broader accessibility but ... read more
Hotline TNT's "Cartwheel": A Sonic Rush of Invigorated Shoegaze.
Hotline TNT's latest album, "Cartwheel" is a vibrant and energetic exploration of shoegaze music that sets itself apart from the norm with its infectious enthusiasm and polished production. The band's ability to capture the exhilarating feeling of a twelve-year-old's sugar-fueled euphoria elevates this record beyond a mere collection of songs, transforming it into an immersive experience that demands ... read more
The Finnish artist Jaakko Eino Kalevi's "Chaos Magic" album is a competent yet uninspired addition to the psychedelic pop genre. While Kalevi's songwriting is still elegant and his production is stylish, the album lacks the surprise factor needed to truly stand out and feels far to familiar.
Despite its pleasant melodies and minimalist textures, "Chaos Magic" fails to leave a lasting impression and ultimately feels like a rehash of a rehash. - Samuel Garuba
Jeffrey Martin's 'Thank God We Left the Garden' is a stark yet emotive record exploring themes of loss, growth, and the human condition. Through simple guitar melodies and raw vocals, Martin delves into the complexities of human existence, painting vivid pictures of characters grappling with their flaws and seeking redemption. It's certainly Martin's best album so far but there's still much more accomplished works out there. - Darren Kusakabe
In "A Seat in Heaven" Jumping Back Slash and BŪJIN have crafted an enthralling soundscape that seamlessly blends electronic elements with evocative strings. BŪJIN's vocals, delivered with cryptic allure, effortlessly guide the narrative, while the interplay of beats, sub-bass, and negative space adds depth and texture to each track.
This album is a well thought out collaboration, showcasing the unique talents of both Gareth Jones and BŪJIN leaving a lasting imprint on the ... read more
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