A stellar third EP from the London singer-songwriter. Lexie Carroll continues to impress throughout 'it's difficult to talk', and the quality of her songwriting makes it hard to believe that she's only 18
In a similar way to his previous work, grandson's latest is too edgy and faux-dark for its own good
Although my expectations weren't high going into this album, Snakehips' 'never worry' is a pleasant surprise. It may not be innovative, but it's certainly fresh, providing a satisfying listen from start to finish - a number of star guests aid in this, including EARTHGANG, Tkay Maidza, BIA, Lucky Daye and Tinashe, but their contributions do not outweigh the British duo's enjoyable production. For how long they've been going, it's certainly interesting that this is their debut - if they continue ... read more
I may be one of few people who have no idea who Benson Boone actually is, why he's popular, or how he's popular. All I know is that this EP is a reasonably solid collection of tracks, bringing a dash of fun and originality to a usually over-saturated brand of male singer-songwriters lamenting the loss of a girl. Benson's voice is powerful, and while his lyrical talent may not be the best out there, he's an intriguing new face in the world of pop music
Perhaps his most tedious work yet, Ed Sheeran's '-' is, in a word, forgettable. Inevitably, this album will attract many negative reviews: listening just once will help you understand why. Unfortunately, The National's Aaron Dessner couldn't save the bland direction Ed has chosen to take, and while sincerity is undoubtedly essential in a market filled with fatuousness, here it has become devalued. Ed Sheeran consistently manages to make the sincerity he attempts to achieve seem insincere ... read more
With every release, $uicideboy$ appear to be getting worse. February’s ‘SHAMELESS $UICIDE’ EP with Shakewell was alright, but ‘YIN YANG TAPES’ borders on unlistenable
Although it starts (and remains) slow, Brian Eno and Fred Again’s ‘Secret Life’ is quite mesmerising. From the gut-wrenching ‘Secret’ to the truly transcendental ‘Enough’, it’s impossible not to be captivated by a work of such extreme beauty. However, while this album may not be lacking the magic that both Eno and Fred can bring to a record, there’s just not enough of said magic to make it an exceptional one
The final song of this album is the fastest 25 minutes I will ever experience
While this certainly isn't his best work, Sufjan Stevens' renowned and recognisable brand of indie folk remains both strong and solidified throughout 'Seven Swans'
To say that the single 'GROWING INTO IT' was so impressive only takes away from the rest of the EP, which is, overall, a disappointment. SPIDER was one of those new artists who captivated me with just one song, but the two that surround it in the tracklisting, unfortunately, fail to match its quality, energy and creativity
While The Rev may lean away from the indie tunes that placed him and his Makers at the forefront of the British festival circuit, no elements of quality are lost as 'Heatwave In The Cold North' remains cohesive, infectious and fun-filled throughout
As is the case with many albums, The Lottery Winners' 'Anxiety Replacement Therapy' has very high highs, but also very low lows. Ever since their self-titled debut catapulted the Greater Manchester quartet into the grouping of upcoming bands, they have arguably descended downhill, and are now reliant on high-profile features from Boy George (who is simultaneously washed-up, sold-out and disgraced) and Frank Turner (whose own music often leans too far into the region of blandness) that just ... read more
The 44 minutes of Nabihah Iqbal's 'DREAMER' will make you feel like you're floating from start to finish, providing listeners with an intense feeling of hazy escapism
In one word, 'Driving Just To Drive' is gorgeous. However, Matt Maltese manages to combine both style and substance, with innovative, witty lyrics which are enough to make anyone smile. His music has always been moving, and here it perhaps reaches its peak: emotion and retrospection permeate this captivating album
Combining the creative process of Lava La Rue, Biig Piig, Mac Wetha and Nayana IZ with the fresh flows of Bone Slim, LorenzoRSV and Nige, NiNE8 are certainly a group to watch. When so many artists come together that have their own process and their own direction, it's very possible that it won't work - but with NiNE8 it's different. On '98 Nights', the collective further demonstrate their united skill and aptitude, making it understandable to any listener that they count Billie Eilish and ... read more
The concept of a Diplo country project works even less than anyone could ever think it would
Ryan Beatty has a beautiful voice, which is completely suited to the blend of indie pop and folkier influences found on 'Calico'
This EP's low rating comes entirely undeservedly. Although SL may rely on the same vocal tone and similar flow throughout, this has become his signature and makes SL, SL. Evidently, it is a matter of whether or not the listener can move past this to embrace his unique voice and inventive lyrics, which are exemplified in their finest form throughout this trip around the world