Really cool album full of funky, frenetic tunes and some ambient leaning moments thrown in, though I much prefer the high energy stuff. Very fun and charming.
Highlights: The Mystery of a Burning Fire, Window Shop, Like A Storm
Alan is a true synth wizard. I like this one a bit more than Nudista Mundial
I didn't quite appreciate the beauty this album is when it came out. Just stunning all around.
While I can understand the lukewarm reception this album received, it's always been a favorite of mine. I was immediately hooked by the echo-ey guitar hits in the opening of Bad Insect, and kept in with the swirling, shimmering synths that fade in.
Nigel Godrich is one of my favorite producers, almost specifically because of the way he mixes and layers percussion. The layered electronic and acoustic drums and various other elements get so dense but are so upfront and clean. The same can be ... read more
My first time listening in probably 15 years, and the first thing that struck me is how sort of raw and rough the mixing and production is at times, which I kind of appreciate. It really just sounds like the band trying everything they can think of and mostly succeeding.
I had completely forgotten about a ton of gems like Jellybelly, XYU, Cupid De Locke, Galapogos. It's a relief that pretty much the entire runtime of this album is listenable and enjoyable, in stark contrast to the uphill ... read more
Not familiar with Nikki Nair, but this was an intriguing release, always appreciate how HudMo is willing to experiment a bit.
This is much, like, cheesier than I remember it? This album has two modes - Rock N' Roll, and quiet
ATUM made me revisit this album for the first time in like, a decade? And god, how depressing is it to hear Billy and co at the top of their game. I think this album was always my favorite because sure, Billy sounds the best he ever has here, but the huge guitars and production kind of mask him a little bit.
The songs have power and dynamics that I don't think we'll ever hear from this band again, unless Billy gets over himself and works with a producer that can pull some life out his music. ... read more
Nothing that blows anything from Night School out of the water but I'm glad Alan is finally back!
I wish Gemmy didn't release uh, SEVEN singles from this album, as those are pretty much the best songs on here. Still fun, cute, perfect for taking a CBD gummy and raving in your room.
Edit: 88 -> 80
Jessie! Is Back!
Her follow up to "Whats Your Pleasure?", one of my favorite pop albums from the last few years, brings back the disco flavor in full force. It's much more about the party this time around. There's not a single bad moment here. It's full of confidence, love, pleasure, and affirmation. The instrumentals are fantastic and Jessie is at the top of her game.
For me, "That! Feels Good!" doesn't exactly match the captivating highs of "Whats ... read more
Super solid, this is a duo that makes so much sense yet never saw it coming??
Been looking forward to Tanukichan's follow up to her solid debut. Unfortunately, it doesn't really build upon that album. I admire the raw and noisy production but ultimately the instrumentals are bland behind the noise, and the vocals are monotonous. It's all just kinda boring, with no memorable moments compared to her debut.
Highlights: Dont Give Up, Nothing to Lose
Synthetic power punk? This really grew on me as it went on, kind of harsh and digital but in the best way.
Highlights: Gutter Queen, Silicone, Lax, TV Made Me Ill, MG, Phased out
Pure 80s trash, which I do love while recognizing how bad it can be. Doctor's Orders is honestly so bad it's funny. Funky Girl is an absolute banger.
This'll probably grow on me but, did not hook me right away like Free Yourself and Pearls. Still hyped
This is my first U.S. Girls album, which I really enjoyed and was kind of surprised to see the ratings on this. I thought this was a fun, well produced album with a lot of flavors of pop. The vocal performances are generally really great, the writing too. A few songs kind of drag, R.I.P. Roy G. Biv to name one, but nothing I felt like skipping.
Since it's clear this isn't U.S. Girls best offering, I'm excited to go back to their past stuff.
Highlights: Only Daedalus, Just Space For Light, ... read more