FaustArp1720

When you come from the grunge of Nevermind, as I do, Superunknown feels like grunge for grown-ups, with its hard rock influences, its solos, and Chris Cornell’s incredible vocals. I did find the songs a bit too long overall, but that’s offset by memorable riffs like those on “The Day I Tried to Live” or “Black Hole Sun,” to name just a few, and the heavy, dark atmosphere gives the whole album a nice sense of cohesion.

In addition to collaborating with outstanding artists, Anderson .Paak up top, Kaytranada proves his versatility time and again on this album, whether it’s with the jazzy “Weight Off,” the trap track “Drive Me Crazy,” the funky “Breakdance Lesson N.1,” or “You’re the One” with its neo-soul touches. The album is, in any case, tailor-made for summer and maintains its light, danceable vibe throughout, even if a few tracks toward the end ... read more

The chaos that I found off-putting on *Dusk in Us* has given way to furious yet masterfully executed tracks. The vocal variations and emotional depth are also a real triumph for a genre that can easily veer into caricature in this regard. The first half, consisting of short tracks, is highly compelling and is balanced by a second half that is longer but just as powerful.

Don’t be fooled by the warm tones of the album cover; *Urn* is very much in the same vein as its predecessors: cold and epic. A violent, intense coldness, yet one that relies on soaring violin melodies and clear vocals to bring a touch of gentleness. The musicians put their virtuosity at the service of emotion, but it is the epic quality that takes precedence over everything else—on nearly every track.