Paullover

Aesthetically, on “Trying Times” James Blake synthesises different aspirations explored throughout his discography. From the subtle ventures into EDM territory of this earliest projects, to the balladry of “Friends That Break Your Heart” and the futurism of “Playing Robots Into Heaven”, those directions are tastefully reunited into a record that paradoxically sounds quite coherent.

Thematically, James Blake tackles several social issues and a general ... read more

Kiss Facility’s debut is a dark and hypnotic exploration of indie-rock subgenres tastefully blended with Sega Bodega’s electronic textures.
To let his partner be in the limelight, his production trademark tends to be more discreet here. While I can’t advocate the lyrical content of this album since I don’t speak a word of Arabic, what I can be amazed about is how expressive Mayah Alkhateri’s vocals are. I am grateful to have witnessed her magnetic live presence ... read more

I wasn't really familiar with American Football's discography at the moment of this release but I feel lucky to have the opportunity to discover it retrospectively. If this first single is accurately a pivot into more post-rock territories for them, then it is such a phenomenal achievement. The first half is minimalist and yet progressive, arranged with splendid strings and syncopated vibraphone arpeggios. The lyrics are introspective forays into childish violence and identity crisis ... read more

Annahstasia constantly delivers intensely emotional and vulnerable performances, whether on studio recordings or during her live shows. I was lucky to attend one of her concerts last year and one thing is obvious: her wonderful vocals and guitar play are enough to captivate an audience. Here, adding those arrangements, especially on the clarinet, is the icing on the cake