2019 Quarter Two Music Recap
It's finally here, my recap of the second quarter of 2019. These are all albums I've heard worthy of noting for positive or negative reasons, released from April through to June, reviewed in a gauntlet-style fashion... plus the few I missed out from the first quarter recap. Without further ado, let's get into this...
Best Albums:
These are the ones to listen to, some of the best albums of the year right here!
"The Origin Of My Depression"
Uboa
14/02/2019
Woah.
This is a word I said aloud many times when listening to this album for the first time. Probably it's the best word to describe this album because strap yourself in this is a tormented experience into the unstable mind of Uboa. This brand of industrial-ambient music may have been explored before, notably by Nine Inch Nails among others, very rarely is it done in such a visceral and emotional way. Confusion is emulated through the contrasts, something this album has in excess, and if you let it basically "take you under" then the full experience is drastically intense, personal and scarily open. When you think of scares in music you likely imagine either some kind of heavy metal or perhaps a novelty Halloween song. This album delivers neither, and yet I am altogether far more intimidated by some of the screams of pain and what I'll describe as electronic riffage than I ever could be by those other options. The production is not immaculate, but I have to commend the placement of different sounds to really disorient me as the listener and drive my focus in one way before pulling the rug and honing in on a completely different element. Overall, this is phenomenally engaging and thoroughly unsettling, an abrasive but satisfying listen.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: The Origin of My Depression; Please Don't Leave Me; Detransitioning; An Angel of Great and Terrible Light
Worst Songs: Misspent Youth
"A Small Group Of Individuals"
CUT_
22/02/2019
This is a fantastic electronic release, one that explores a range of sonic pathways and delves into a multitude of subgenres that feels like a sort of collection of different ideas and inspirations, each with its own influences and what feels like responses to different artists this duo is emulating or, as the title puts it, this album is "A Small Group Of Individuals". It's one hit after another, this album never runs out of steam and the best songs are rather satisfyingly spread out along the tracklist. From the poppy frolicking of "Storm" to the bass-heavy drop on "Quick Fix", CUT_ have something for everyone and whilst I feel they are generally at their best when delivering smooth, wispy jams such as the Klangstof-featuring "Fever", a track I can neither confirm nor deny will have a placement on my year end lists... (Literally, because I've not begun them yet!). All in all, one of the most interesting and diverse yet accessible electronic albums this year.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Fever; Can't Escape This Feeling; Trust; Quick Fix; Not Addicted To You; Out Of Touch
Worst Songs: Push Me; Storm
"Mazy Fly"
SPELLING
22/02/2019
This is quite an interesting and experimental release - a very lofi blend of psychedelia and chillwave that boasts a very haunting, ethereal yet disturbed atmosphere. Combined with her excellent writing and profound synthwork, this is an intricate little release that you shouldn't let escape your radar, particularly in a time oversaturated with very underwhelming lofi releases.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Under the Sun; Haunted Water; Real Fun; Melted Wings
Worst Songs: Dirty Desert Dreams
"Trust In The Lifeforce Of The Deep Mystery"
The Comet Is Coming
15/03/2019
The Mercury Prize nomination was just the incentive I needed to discover this album, because otherwise my disconnect from new jazz music would have rendered me a fool for missing this striking new release. The complexity of the performances is slightly mind-boggling, and the high-energy, high-octane delivery is perhaps the most expressive and fresh jazz-incorporating music since Kendrick's TPAB. Undeniably, I am a sucker for this brand of sci-fi-themed jazz, but when it's done to the level of perfection that it is here there is no denying its potency. The Comet Is Coming excels in all departments, particularly rhythmically where it is obvious that their classic hip-hop and experimental electronic components have been ramped up to their most prominent level, with many of the drum and synth sections from Danalogue standing out as the highlights of these songs. That said, the other two members of this outfit are far from slacking, a fact I find particularly noticeable on the rather insane and instantly catchy "Summon The Fire", perhaps the album's most impressively intense track. This intensity is achieved in a multitude of ways, and on the Kate Tempest-featuring "Blood Of The Past" it's the incredibly personal and socially-conscious rap over one of the album's most free, wild sounding instrumentals.
Rating: 9/10
Best Songs: Super Zodiac; Summon The Fire; Birth Of Creation; Timewave Zero; The Universe Wakes Up
Worst Songs: Because The End Is Really The Beginning
"The Ceiling"
JAWS
05/04/2019
I must admit I am not at all familiar with the previous two albums from this band, but that hasn't stopped me from being absorbed in the dark, psychedelic dreampop of The Ceiling, particularly during the colder parts of this year. It's an album that, despite delivering oppressive layers of sound, never feels bogged down or overstuffed. It's atmosphere is perhaps its most captivating quality, and even when switching from a more melancholic moment to an aggressive one, JAWS are able to keep the the tone familiar. It's an altogether very balanced feeling album, and it's a shame that it's just been one of those early year releases people seem to forget.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Driving at Night; Do You Remember?; End of the World
Worst Songs: Fear
Worst Songs: Fear
"Morbid Stuff"
PUP
05/04/2019
This is quite possibly the best pop-punk album of the year and a thoroughly enjoyable venture into some legitimately meaningful and dark topics. On the one hand, their fantastic riffs and powerful performances make it a brilliant album to have fun with - to headbang to your hearts content and feel the weight of the guitars; on the other hand, this is a thinker's album that deals in issues like mental health and loneliness in often rather harsh but true ways. You could describe PUP as brash, but they're too clever for that, or you could describe them as too calculated but then again they're too honest for that. This is an enthralling listen and an album that only grows on me with time, in fact it has almost a perfect tracklist (yeah "City" does not deserve to be on this album).
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: See You at Your Funeral; Bloody Mary, Kate and Ashley; Full Blown Meltdown; Bare Hands
Worst Tracks: City
"Titanic Rising"
Weyes Blood
05/04/2019
This album is breathtaking, a beautiful and meticulously crafted spectacle that shows off just how exceptional a writer and musician Weyes Blood is. The instrumentation towers, knowing when to go for soaring maximalism and when to dial back and achieve a more intimate feeling. Either way, the songs are luscious and rich in subtleties and detail, whether it be in the timeless sounding retro of "Everyday" or in the magnificent futuristic sounds of "Movies", the latter showcasing a wonderful violin section that may be the experimental highlight of the whole album. Do your ears a favour and listen to this with a great pair of headphones or set of speakers, because if there's one album on this list that deserves that it might just be this one.
Rating: 9/10
Best Tracks: Andromeda; Movies; Picture Me Better; Everyday; A Lot's Gonna Change
Worst Tracks: N/A
"Cuz I Love You (Deluxe)"
Lizzo
19/04/2019
Usually I wouldn't talk about a deluxe version on my blog, especially not in a gauntlet section such as this, but the exception had to be made for Lizzo's breakthrough album as a result of the success of a certain 2017 single, "Truth Hurts". Over the course of 2019, Lizzo has gone from an underground rapper to arguably the most widely acclaimed solo female act of the year. Certainly, her music is more inspiring and empowering than pop peers Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish and despite all three artists' 2019 releases being vastly different they are in many ways easily comparable. Sorry to say it Billie Eilish fans, but Lizzo is actually the underdog in this situation despite claiming the biggest and best smash hit of the three, with the aforementioned "Truth Hurts" claiming the longest running solo female no.1 in the US. I could go on, and if I ever get around to reviewing this album fully I will, but this segment is supposed to be concise so, in short: Lizzo has released the most eclectic, expressive and exciting genre-blending pop album of the year with, in my opinion, less misfires than her rivals. From the grandeur of the title track to the masterful balladry on "Crybaby", this album explores many elements of female empowerment, relationships and anxiety in just over 40 minutes. This isn't one to miss.
Usually I wouldn't talk about a deluxe version on my blog, especially not in a gauntlet section such as this, but the exception had to be made for Lizzo's breakthrough album as a result of the success of a certain 2017 single, "Truth Hurts". Over the course of 2019, Lizzo has gone from an underground rapper to arguably the most widely acclaimed solo female act of the year. Certainly, her music is more inspiring and empowering than pop peers Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish and despite all three artists' 2019 releases being vastly different they are in many ways easily comparable. Sorry to say it Billie Eilish fans, but Lizzo is actually the underdog in this situation despite claiming the biggest and best smash hit of the three, with the aforementioned "Truth Hurts" claiming the longest running solo female no.1 in the US. I could go on, and if I ever get around to reviewing this album fully I will, but this segment is supposed to be concise so, in short: Lizzo has released the most eclectic, expressive and exciting genre-blending pop album of the year with, in my opinion, less misfires than her rivals. From the grandeur of the title track to the masterful balladry on "Crybaby", this album explores many elements of female empowerment, relationships and anxiety in just over 40 minutes. This isn't one to miss.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: Cuz I Love You; Juice; Jerome; Tempo; Better In Color; Lingerie; Truth Hurts
Worst Tracks: Heaven Help Me
Worst Tracks: Heaven Help Me
"So that you might hear me"
Bear's Den
26/04/2019
After an admirable but underwhelming sophomore release, I don't think anyone expected Bear's Den to defy the confines of their folk-rock sound and reach for new heights with the most (successful) integration of electronic and synth elements into their music, as well as some more traditional folk and desert rock stylings to some songs. It may not be what you'd call an expansive album, but for a band like this to open up musically in this way is quite unusual. Many of their peers would simply remake the same few songs that grabbed them some attention earlier in their career, or choose to sell out and divert to a poppier direction, but I have a lot of respect for just how this duo have managed to develop. It's subtle, but they are experimenting with sounds that are new to them all whilst continuously improving upon their poetic lyrics. They're great at narrative storytelling, but they're getting to be just as good at setting an atmosphere that no only compliments but contributes to the emotional journey that some of these songs take you on. I'm not trying to oversell this album here, because yes it's still pretty simplistic and yes it's nothing hugely unique or new, but it's an album I've grown to love and appreciate in all its nuances and features and I hope that you can too.
---26/04/2019
After an admirable but underwhelming sophomore release, I don't think anyone expected Bear's Den to defy the confines of their folk-rock sound and reach for new heights with the most (successful) integration of electronic and synth elements into their music, as well as some more traditional folk and desert rock stylings to some songs. It may not be what you'd call an expansive album, but for a band like this to open up musically in this way is quite unusual. Many of their peers would simply remake the same few songs that grabbed them some attention earlier in their career, or choose to sell out and divert to a poppier direction, but I have a lot of respect for just how this duo have managed to develop. It's subtle, but they are experimenting with sounds that are new to them all whilst continuously improving upon their poetic lyrics. They're great at narrative storytelling, but they're getting to be just as good at setting an atmosphere that no only compliments but contributes to the emotional journey that some of these songs take you on. I'm not trying to oversell this album here, because yes it's still pretty simplistic and yes it's nothing hugely unique or new, but it's an album I've grown to love and appreciate in all its nuances and features and I hope that you can too.
Rating: 9/10
Best Tracks: Fossils; Hiding Bottles; Crow; Blankets Of Sorrow; Fuel On The Fire; Breaker/Keeper
Worst Tracks: Evangeline
This is always going to be compared to her last album, the refreshing synthpop of 2015's Emotion. To be honest, as potent as the writing was and as strong as the hooks were on that album, I actually felt like it was punching over its weight in a year that saw Chvrches' fantastic Every Open Eye display a higher proficiency at working with that same sound. However; on Dedicated I feel as though Carly is at her best more often than ever before as one of pop's most underrated stars. I won't deny that it's a more inconsistent record, one with a tendency to forget exactly what it wants to be, but I admire and enjoy the more experimental direction. Yes, there's no chorus as great as "Run Away With Me", but there are still hooks for days and I love how it feels as though this album doesn't simply plant its feet in 80s and modern pop, instead often diving into more futuristic, occasionally Charli XCX inspired beats. It's perhaps a less refreshing album, but the production is overall more slick and the beats are superb. In my opinion, this is her best album to date.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: The Sound; For Sure; Automatically In Love; No Drug Like Me; Want You In My Room; Too Much; Now That I Found You
Worst Tracks: Everything He Needs
"Requiem for Recycled Earth"
James Ferraro
17/05/2019
The range of different ambient styles this man has produced over the years, all the while retaining his high quality of work and never losing the quirks that gave Far Side Virtual so much character all those years ago. On his latest full-length release, James dives into some of his most grand-scale work. The arrangements are pristine, magnificent realisations of a modern-futurist world and it really feels like the soundtrack to a slightly dystopian reality. What makes his music so great is that it never becomes complete sci-fi, as the reflections of our own existence are such primary inspirations that he takes to craft some of the best midi-based electronic music of the decade. This is another fantastic addition to his catalogue.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: Xerces Blau; Weapon; Cyber Seed; Malign Blossom; Airless Matrix
Worst Tracks: Embryo
"Future Dust"
The Amazons
24/05/2019
One of the few true rock bands played on BBC Radio 1 and a rising icon of modern rock music, The Amazons underwent a pivotal change in sound on this album. On the debut, 2017's self titled The Amazons, the band channeled 90s indie rock in a tried and tested formula that, whilst energetic and fun, left a little to be desired. This album goes further back to the classic rock of the 70s and 80s, finding its routes in Led Zeppelin, Def Leppard and Iron Maiden. Whilst these influences do come across pretty obviously on the album and a frequent critique of their music is the unoriginal, non-creative nature to recreating these older sounds, I fully embrace their revitalisation of rock and roll. It may not sound fresh or new but the emphatic guitars and rip-roaring solos are thrilling enough for me to keep coming back for more. I think the quality is really great, both in terms of production and the tones of the music. It never feels like I'm listening to something old, and I won't go as far as to call it timeless but it's a release that I believe is deserving of more praise and recognition.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: 25; Fuzzy Tree; 25 (Reprise); End Of Wonder; Mother
Worst Tracks: Warning Sign
"Don't Wait 'Til Tomorrow"
YONAKA
31/05/2019
Yonaka go in more directions than expected on their very 2000s indie sounding debut, but combine that sound with honestly some of the biggest, best and most poppy choruses of the decade. This album, unlike so many others in the same vein, really sticks with you. It could be down to the songwriting, the themes of mental health and friendship and meaningful and twisted relationships; alternatively, it could be down to the infectious hooks, the soaring guitars or the electric synths. It doesn't really matter, because this band has a spark and you can tell they're going places. Maybe some of the buildups could have had some more payoff, a fact especially noticeable on the otherwise grandiose "Guilty", and yes the writing on the opener is a weaker moment on the album even if it still gets its message on isolation across clearly, but the flaws don't break the album and its still great overall. Read my full review here.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: Awake; Don't Wait 'Til Tomorrow; Creature; Punch Bag; Fired Up
Worst Tracks: Wake Up
"Between The Country"
Ian Noe
31/05/2019
I did not expect to be reviewing such a traditional country album anytime soon on my blog, but after the sheer volume of positive reviews this indie country album gathered, I set myself the task of taking on an unfamiliar genre and... this is really very good. My primary comparison is First Aid Kit and Kacey Musgraves, and to be honest I hear a lot of the former in this release. It's a very lyrically-based album that offers up some sweet folksy instrumentals not so far removed from Angus & Julia Stone's earlier work, set to a very Bob Dylan-esque lyricist and vocalist as Ian is. His voice is the primary instrument on these songs, and it guides you through a rather troubled social landscape as Ian finds himself struggling to get through and hold onto what's easy with so much turmoil and change going on around him. Country isn't a particularly musically progressive genre, and whilst this album isn't pushing any boundaries it's easy to acclaim because of how potent the lyrics and melodies are. It's an incredibly personal, fascinating listen that I find myself entranced by with every listen.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Letter to Madeline; Junk Town; Meth Head; Between The Country; Barbara's Song
Worst Songs: Loving You
"ZUU"
Denzel Curry
31/05/2019
Summer bangers after summer banger delivered in under 30 minutes, this is Denzel's most accessible work to date but that doesn't stop it from being some of the best hip-hop of the year. If his last album was his dark, intelligent thinkpiece then this is essentially the direct contrast to that, an ultra high speed, fun collection of witty bars and somewhat meaningless lyrics that all just sound really good, regardless of how shallow they may actually be. Despite this, Denzel still stands out as one of the best rappers to grace this brand of maximalist, thrilling rap rap and he denzerves (sorry, couldn't help it) so much more recognition. Why not listen to this in place of Drake, it's far better party music and Denzel is far more consistent.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: RICKY; SPEEDBOAT; BIRDZ; ZUU; WISH; P.A.T.
Worst Songs: BUSHY B INTERLUDE; YOO
"Schlagenheim"
black midi
21/06/2019
Named after an obscure genre of DAW-exclusive electronic music that is characterised by its use of literally millions of midi notes in a single piece of music, this band somehow manage to channel the same sort of complex chaos in their brand of experimental noise rock. Infused with punk riffs and playing with drum machines and detailed rhythms, on black midi's debut album they achieve a free-flowing and sometimes aimless style of what could loosely be described as indie rock. Really they are just one of the latest genreless artists creating music for the modern listener, albeit not a modern pop listener because the extended, self-indulgent songs are very much aimed at the pretentious youth and eclectic critics that have indeed dug this album and praised all of its insanity and somewhat accidental genius. Undeniably, these kids have talent but perhaps the most appealing aspect of this to me is how unstructured and improvised it comes across as. I really do enjoy these tracks, even the formless-to-a-fault bombast that comes at the end of "bmbmbm", the album's most ostentatious offering and one that takes some patience with its incredibly long and repetitive intro. Overall, this is a spectacularly explosive experience and if you can get behind it then you'll probably love it too.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Western; Speedway; Near DT, MI; 953; bmbmbm
Worst Songs: Ducter
"Life Was Coming In Through The Blinds EP"
Another Sky
21/06/2019
This band is enchanting, definitely one of the most captivating indie bands I know. This EP is their best work to date, boasting the most beautifully arranged and compelling songs they've released thus far in their blossoming career. All four tracks have something to offer, and each has their own respective highlights and vibe. Opener "The Cracks" is an early Coldplay-esque piece if that era of the band had the energy and passion of Arcade Fire, displaying one of their strongest choruses, whilst followup "Apple Tree" excels in its repetitivity, drawing you in with its syncopation and slightly odd pacing. The title track is a more experimental, atmospheric peace and my personal favourite on the EP, followed by the epic balladry of closing track "I Don't Hate You".
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Life Was Coming In Through The Blinds; I Don't Hate You; Apple Tree
Worst Songs: The Cracks (although only by default, it's not bad)
Worst Tracks: Evangeline
"Useless Coordinates"
Drahla
03/05/2019
It's frustrating how underwhelmed I seem to be with the critics' favourite punk albums of late, so when I discovered this on Bandcamp I rejoiced at this London band's refined rawness and intense focus. Clocking in at just under thirty minutes, this London based group are not wasting any time on their debut and this is clear from the first song and its incredibly punchy riffs and jolting nature. This is an album that keeps you on your toes, sticking to what you'd expect from the genre whilst also incorporating elements of jazz (and in particular the skills of saxophonist Chris Duffin) to push the album forward and capture the listener's attention with peculiar details and very driven lyrics that focus on social inequalities and flaws. In short, this is the definitive punk album for 2019, and if you're out there clinging to FONTAINES D.C. as your example of the year's best then you especially need to get on Drahla's phenomenal album.
Rating: 9/10
Best Tracks: React/Revolt; Invisible Sex; Stimulus for Living; Serenity; Twelve Divisions of the Day; Unwound; Primitive Rhythm
Worst Tracks: N/A
"Dedicated"
Drahla
03/05/2019
It's frustrating how underwhelmed I seem to be with the critics' favourite punk albums of late, so when I discovered this on Bandcamp I rejoiced at this London band's refined rawness and intense focus. Clocking in at just under thirty minutes, this London based group are not wasting any time on their debut and this is clear from the first song and its incredibly punchy riffs and jolting nature. This is an album that keeps you on your toes, sticking to what you'd expect from the genre whilst also incorporating elements of jazz (and in particular the skills of saxophonist Chris Duffin) to push the album forward and capture the listener's attention with peculiar details and very driven lyrics that focus on social inequalities and flaws. In short, this is the definitive punk album for 2019, and if you're out there clinging to FONTAINES D.C. as your example of the year's best then you especially need to get on Drahla's phenomenal album.
Rating: 9/10
Best Tracks: React/Revolt; Invisible Sex; Stimulus for Living; Serenity; Twelve Divisions of the Day; Unwound; Primitive Rhythm
Worst Tracks: N/A
"Requiem"
shey baba
10/05/2019
Sometimes, an album will just take you completely by surprise and implant itself straight into your soul. Shey baba's debut did exactly this for me. Aside from pulling my trip hop bias, Requiem is an album that proves to be a self-contained expression of mental health, instability, wistful love and confusion. How could I resist? Shey's voice is a wonderful, wonderful thing that compels me to pay attention, to think and to feel his messages and his music. It reminds me of London Grammar and of Beach House, but leans away from the former's orchestral arrangements or the latter's psychedelic tendencies, instead taking the sound in a spectacular electronic direction that helps to elevate the near-perfect tracklist and produces a heavenly sort of quality to these songs.
Rating: 9/10
Best Tracks: I Want It All; Inside Out; Requiem; Vertigo; Dreamers & Lovers; Born Sick
Worst Tracks: Long Way Down (but not really)
10/05/2019
Sometimes, an album will just take you completely by surprise and implant itself straight into your soul. Shey baba's debut did exactly this for me. Aside from pulling my trip hop bias, Requiem is an album that proves to be a self-contained expression of mental health, instability, wistful love and confusion. How could I resist? Shey's voice is a wonderful, wonderful thing that compels me to pay attention, to think and to feel his messages and his music. It reminds me of London Grammar and of Beach House, but leans away from the former's orchestral arrangements or the latter's psychedelic tendencies, instead taking the sound in a spectacular electronic direction that helps to elevate the near-perfect tracklist and produces a heavenly sort of quality to these songs.
Rating: 9/10
Best Tracks: I Want It All; Inside Out; Requiem; Vertigo; Dreamers & Lovers; Born Sick
Worst Tracks: Long Way Down (but not really)
"Dedicated"
Carly Rae Jepsen
17/05/2019
17/05/2019
This is always going to be compared to her last album, the refreshing synthpop of 2015's Emotion. To be honest, as potent as the writing was and as strong as the hooks were on that album, I actually felt like it was punching over its weight in a year that saw Chvrches' fantastic Every Open Eye display a higher proficiency at working with that same sound. However; on Dedicated I feel as though Carly is at her best more often than ever before as one of pop's most underrated stars. I won't deny that it's a more inconsistent record, one with a tendency to forget exactly what it wants to be, but I admire and enjoy the more experimental direction. Yes, there's no chorus as great as "Run Away With Me", but there are still hooks for days and I love how it feels as though this album doesn't simply plant its feet in 80s and modern pop, instead often diving into more futuristic, occasionally Charli XCX inspired beats. It's perhaps a less refreshing album, but the production is overall more slick and the beats are superb. In my opinion, this is her best album to date.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: The Sound; For Sure; Automatically In Love; No Drug Like Me; Want You In My Room; Too Much; Now That I Found You
Worst Tracks: Everything He Needs
"Requiem for Recycled Earth"
James Ferraro
17/05/2019
The range of different ambient styles this man has produced over the years, all the while retaining his high quality of work and never losing the quirks that gave Far Side Virtual so much character all those years ago. On his latest full-length release, James dives into some of his most grand-scale work. The arrangements are pristine, magnificent realisations of a modern-futurist world and it really feels like the soundtrack to a slightly dystopian reality. What makes his music so great is that it never becomes complete sci-fi, as the reflections of our own existence are such primary inspirations that he takes to craft some of the best midi-based electronic music of the decade. This is another fantastic addition to his catalogue.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: Xerces Blau; Weapon; Cyber Seed; Malign Blossom; Airless Matrix
Worst Tracks: Embryo
"Future Dust"
The Amazons
24/05/2019
One of the few true rock bands played on BBC Radio 1 and a rising icon of modern rock music, The Amazons underwent a pivotal change in sound on this album. On the debut, 2017's self titled The Amazons, the band channeled 90s indie rock in a tried and tested formula that, whilst energetic and fun, left a little to be desired. This album goes further back to the classic rock of the 70s and 80s, finding its routes in Led Zeppelin, Def Leppard and Iron Maiden. Whilst these influences do come across pretty obviously on the album and a frequent critique of their music is the unoriginal, non-creative nature to recreating these older sounds, I fully embrace their revitalisation of rock and roll. It may not sound fresh or new but the emphatic guitars and rip-roaring solos are thrilling enough for me to keep coming back for more. I think the quality is really great, both in terms of production and the tones of the music. It never feels like I'm listening to something old, and I won't go as far as to call it timeless but it's a release that I believe is deserving of more praise and recognition.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: 25; Fuzzy Tree; 25 (Reprise); End Of Wonder; Mother
Worst Tracks: Warning Sign
"Don't Wait 'Til Tomorrow"
YONAKA
31/05/2019
Yonaka go in more directions than expected on their very 2000s indie sounding debut, but combine that sound with honestly some of the biggest, best and most poppy choruses of the decade. This album, unlike so many others in the same vein, really sticks with you. It could be down to the songwriting, the themes of mental health and friendship and meaningful and twisted relationships; alternatively, it could be down to the infectious hooks, the soaring guitars or the electric synths. It doesn't really matter, because this band has a spark and you can tell they're going places. Maybe some of the buildups could have had some more payoff, a fact especially noticeable on the otherwise grandiose "Guilty", and yes the writing on the opener is a weaker moment on the album even if it still gets its message on isolation across clearly, but the flaws don't break the album and its still great overall. Read my full review here.
Rating: 8/10
Best Tracks: Awake; Don't Wait 'Til Tomorrow; Creature; Punch Bag; Fired Up
Worst Tracks: Wake Up
"Between The Country"
Ian Noe
31/05/2019
I did not expect to be reviewing such a traditional country album anytime soon on my blog, but after the sheer volume of positive reviews this indie country album gathered, I set myself the task of taking on an unfamiliar genre and... this is really very good. My primary comparison is First Aid Kit and Kacey Musgraves, and to be honest I hear a lot of the former in this release. It's a very lyrically-based album that offers up some sweet folksy instrumentals not so far removed from Angus & Julia Stone's earlier work, set to a very Bob Dylan-esque lyricist and vocalist as Ian is. His voice is the primary instrument on these songs, and it guides you through a rather troubled social landscape as Ian finds himself struggling to get through and hold onto what's easy with so much turmoil and change going on around him. Country isn't a particularly musically progressive genre, and whilst this album isn't pushing any boundaries it's easy to acclaim because of how potent the lyrics and melodies are. It's an incredibly personal, fascinating listen that I find myself entranced by with every listen.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Letter to Madeline; Junk Town; Meth Head; Between The Country; Barbara's Song
Worst Songs: Loving You
"ZUU"
Denzel Curry
31/05/2019
Summer bangers after summer banger delivered in under 30 minutes, this is Denzel's most accessible work to date but that doesn't stop it from being some of the best hip-hop of the year. If his last album was his dark, intelligent thinkpiece then this is essentially the direct contrast to that, an ultra high speed, fun collection of witty bars and somewhat meaningless lyrics that all just sound really good, regardless of how shallow they may actually be. Despite this, Denzel still stands out as one of the best rappers to grace this brand of maximalist, thrilling rap rap and he denzerves (sorry, couldn't help it) so much more recognition. Why not listen to this in place of Drake, it's far better party music and Denzel is far more consistent.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: RICKY; SPEEDBOAT; BIRDZ; ZUU; WISH; P.A.T.
Worst Songs: BUSHY B INTERLUDE; YOO
"Schlagenheim"
black midi
21/06/2019
Named after an obscure genre of DAW-exclusive electronic music that is characterised by its use of literally millions of midi notes in a single piece of music, this band somehow manage to channel the same sort of complex chaos in their brand of experimental noise rock. Infused with punk riffs and playing with drum machines and detailed rhythms, on black midi's debut album they achieve a free-flowing and sometimes aimless style of what could loosely be described as indie rock. Really they are just one of the latest genreless artists creating music for the modern listener, albeit not a modern pop listener because the extended, self-indulgent songs are very much aimed at the pretentious youth and eclectic critics that have indeed dug this album and praised all of its insanity and somewhat accidental genius. Undeniably, these kids have talent but perhaps the most appealing aspect of this to me is how unstructured and improvised it comes across as. I really do enjoy these tracks, even the formless-to-a-fault bombast that comes at the end of "bmbmbm", the album's most ostentatious offering and one that takes some patience with its incredibly long and repetitive intro. Overall, this is a spectacularly explosive experience and if you can get behind it then you'll probably love it too.
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Western; Speedway; Near DT, MI; 953; bmbmbm
Worst Songs: Ducter
"Life Was Coming In Through The Blinds EP"
Another Sky
21/06/2019
This band is enchanting, definitely one of the most captivating indie bands I know. This EP is their best work to date, boasting the most beautifully arranged and compelling songs they've released thus far in their blossoming career. All four tracks have something to offer, and each has their own respective highlights and vibe. Opener "The Cracks" is an early Coldplay-esque piece if that era of the band had the energy and passion of Arcade Fire, displaying one of their strongest choruses, whilst followup "Apple Tree" excels in its repetitivity, drawing you in with its syncopation and slightly odd pacing. The title track is a more experimental, atmospheric peace and my personal favourite on the EP, followed by the epic balladry of closing track "I Don't Hate You".
Rating: 8/10
Best Songs: Life Was Coming In Through The Blinds; I Don't Hate You; Apple Tree
Worst Songs: The Cracks (although only by default, it's not bad)
Notable Releases:
The albums and EPs I find are worth mentioning even if they weren't the best of the Quarter. Perhaps I wanna throw some light on a release, perhaps I wanna throw some shade... whatever the case, these are albums I feel are notable in some way.
"Into Clouds"
Luttrel
01/02/2019
This is a pretty straightforward, chilled dance album that I don't find myself necessarily coming back to, but that I find perfectly enjoyable when listening to. There's a handful of tracks I consider pretty good, but nothing's going to make it onto a year end list. It's cool and if atmospheric or dance music is your thing then check it out; Into Clouds is an album to vibe to.
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: After All; Still Dreaming; Quiet Even Dark
Worst Tracks: May 25th
"Gaia & Friends"
Crystal Fighters
01/03/2019
Well... Crystal Fighters have proved once and for all why they are not a worthwhile band. On their latest release, they try their best to infuse tropical and trap flavours to their mind-numbingly basic style of indie pop. Getting through this album and its numerous faults is a test of endurance, as the majority of the standouts are just plain bad. The production is cheap, the lyrics are cheesy and there is very little to cling to in terms of quality. One thing this album does have going for it is its catchiness, and I can assure you I won't be forgetting it in hurry. A shame.
Rating: 2/10
Best Tracks: All My Love
Worst Tracks: Runnin'; Costa Rica; Wild Ones; Goin' Harder
"Compliments Please"
Self Esteem
01/03/2019
After a while working behind the scenes and featuring on various indie pop and dance songs, Rebecca Lucy Taylor has finally released her own album. It may not be a reinvention of the wheel by any means, but it's a refreshing collection of pop songs that showcases Rebecca's distinctive writing and knack for earwormy tunes, definitely worthy of a listen. It's an album perfect for easy listening, or for chilled partying and I hope to see her music go places in the future.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: The Best; Girl Crush; Actors; She Reigns
Worst Tracks: Monster
"Be Content"
Indoor Pets
08/03/2019
I suppose this is the sort of band that's gonna get a lot of love from a lot of indie fans for just being a really fun, open experience that sees this young band delivering some catchy guitar tunes immediately fit for festivals and radio. Unlike certain others bands I'll get to on this list, Indoor Pets sound fresh and energetic in comparison to many of their peers and predecessors. Don't skip this, particularly if you like early Wombats and Foals music.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Pro Procrastinator; Heavy Thoughts; The Mapping of Dandruff
Worst Tracks: Cutie Pie, I'm Bloated
"Psychodrama"
Dave
08/03/2019
This Mercury Prize winner may not have the absolute best album on the shortlist but out of all the options it is arguably the most important, socially and personally. Essentially none of the lyrics are filler as Dave spits some of the most real and revealing bars I've ever heard in the mainstream. The centrepiece is "Black", a captivating and passionate rap ballad that would hit the hardest if not for the unfortunately generic beat. It sounds good but it's an issue that lingers at the back of my mind when listening to the majority of these songs because there just isn't enough distinction from his peers and predecessors in terms of his flows and beats, which is a major flaw with an album so focused on its messages: they need more instrumental substance to enhance the points he makes but it's something lacking and all the more noticeable when I compare it to fellow South London rapper Little Simz and her latest album, the phenomenal Grey Area. Focusing on similar themes and delivering them with more unique and impactful beats that don't just contribute to the vibe but help to emphasise the lyrics and flows she absolutely slays with. I really want to like Dave's album as much as I do Little Simz's, but the truth is that most of the songs fail to captivate me in the same way or come close to replicating the emotion in "Black" nor the intensity of the beats on the first handful of tracks. On top of all this, it feels too much like he's retracing steps he's just taken, so not only do those early songs have the better beats but they also feel like the template for the rest of the album. All is not lost, and there's no way I can call this even particular mediocre because Dave's presence is irrefutably the highlight of every song. Overall, I respect the hell out of this album, but I don't love it.
Rating: 7/10
Best Songs: Lesley; Voices; Psycho; Streatham; Screwface Capital; Drama
Worst Songs: Purple Heart
"Paper Castles"
Alice Phoebe Lou
08/03/2019
This album coasts by on some of the most forgettable, mediocre dreamy instrumentals I've heard all year, and fails to captivate me with its retro bliss. Sure, everything here sounds good but there's nothing to keep me hooked or particularly engaged. One thing I will give is that Alice's peculiar vocal delivery makes for a someone intriguing listen and on "Fynbos" actually has an emotional impact, a rare moment of content on an album I couldn't be more indifferent to. I can't help feeling as if I should be impressed by the oddball approach to larger soundscapes on the latter half of the album, and this is where the quality sees some major improvements, and I do genuinely enjoy this half, but it can't excuse just how poor the first half is.
08/03/2019
This album coasts by on some of the most forgettable, mediocre dreamy instrumentals I've heard all year, and fails to captivate me with its retro bliss. Sure, everything here sounds good but there's nothing to keep me hooked or particularly engaged. One thing I will give is that Alice's peculiar vocal delivery makes for a someone intriguing listen and on "Fynbos" actually has an emotional impact, a rare moment of content on an album I couldn't be more indifferent to. I can't help feeling as if I should be impressed by the oddball approach to larger soundscapes on the latter half of the album, and this is where the quality sees some major improvements, and I do genuinely enjoy this half, but it can't excuse just how poor the first half is.
Rating: 5/10
Best Tracks: Skin Crawl; My Outside; Fynbos
Worst Tracks: Nostalgia; Galaxies; Something Holy
Worst Tracks: Nostalgia; Galaxies; Something Holy
"Sucker Punch"
Sigrid
08/03/2019
After some explosive singles and a very mediocre EP, I was very skeptical for Sigrid's debut album but I am happy to say that as unoriginal as her synthpop stylings are, there's a certain charm to her consistent charisma that coupled with some excellent beats makes for a rather entertaining album. I'm still enamoured with the singles "Strangers" and "Sucker Punch", although what I'd love now is for her to push one final single before the start of her next album cycle.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Never Mine; Mine Right Now; Strangers; Dynamite; Level Up
Worst Tracks: In Vain
"What's It Like Over There?"
Circa Waves
05/04/2019
Never the best indie band out there but previously reliable for at least bringing enough energy and provocative writing to be enjoyable, on this occasion Circa Waves have become perhaps the most uninspiring and uninteresting pop rock band not to touch the mainstream. Sure, a couple of the singles were catchy and fun when they were new, but I haven't found myself seeking out this album in a while now. You can check out my review where I go much more in depth on the features and (many) flaws this album has: the review.
Rating: 4/10
Best Tracks: Movies, Times Won't Change Me
Worst Tracks: Sorry I'm Yours; The Way We Say Goodbye
"Persistence"
Witching Waves
05/04/2019
This is a semi-unique post-punk album, definitely one that deserves more recognition but not necessarily something worth putting among the year's best. Humorous, yes, but remarkably easy to ignore in spite of its distinct personality. I do consider it a good album, but there's something I can't quite place that doesn't completely click with me.
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: Shipping Container; Inside Outside; Hoax
Worst Tracks: Best of Me
"Exident"
Dennis Lloyd
05/04/2019
As much as I appreciate the attempt to blend his very dark R&B with grungy guitars, this is a project that intrigues me more than I actually enjoy it. Stylistically engaging but lyrically underweight and borderline offensive, this reminds me of Post Malone's Beerbongs and Bentley's for that album's negative qualities and I'm afraid that I'm overall displeased with Dennis Lloyd's EP. If you only know him due to his international hit "Nevermind" then this might shock you as something altogether very different.
Rating: 4/10
Best Tracks: Aura
Worst Tracks: Runaway; GFY
"Dogrel"
FONTAINES D.C.
12/04/2019
The mixed reception for this was initially rather shocking, especially since the hype surrounding many of the exceptional singles leading up to the album's release, but when I heard it I understood just how let down people were. Outside of a select few tracks, this album is entirely unremarkable. Sure, most of the singles continue to captivate me as some of the more interesting punk songs to come out recently, but aside from these it's just heaps of filler. It's easy to appreciate this album for what it is, a very personal punk record that deals with the local issues and environment as apposed to calling out the greater issues. When it succeeds at this, we're given such gems as "Too Real" and "Liberty Belle"; however, more often than not it's the same theme over and over again without enough variation in the instrumentals nor the lyrics, leading to a very underwhelming release. I fear that many critics are praising this as a masterpiece simply to fill the void in punk music, much as they did with Idles similarly underwhelming "Joy As An Act Of Resistance" last year, when they should be directing their focus towards new bands with more fresh ideas, such as Drahla's debut album.
Rating: 6/10
Worst Tracks: The Lotts; Dublin City Sky
"Just to Exist"
All Tvvins
12/04/2019
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: Hell of a Party; Build a Bridge; Just to Exist; In the Dark
Worst Tracks: My Future
"Collide"
Tom Speight
12/04/2019
Upon casual listening, this is a typical, good little folk album. It's not hugely memorable, but it's a pleasant enough listen. Tom lands in a similar lane to Vance Joy, and whilst neither are the best indie folk around they have their audiences and I'm always curious to see what they'll release, even if I don't expect much from it. At times on Collide, the lyrics can get extremely brittle and rather pathetic, and as I've spent the last few months getting more into some far superior folk music I've come to notice the frailty and faults of Collide all the more.
Rating: 5/10
Best Tracks: Into the Night; Collide; My Name
Worst Tracks: Strangers Now; Evermore
"Monsters Under The Bed EP"
Dylan Cartlidge
12/04/2019
Dylan's first EP has been complimented for its resemblance to early Gorillaz work, and it's easy to see why people are looking for a replacement after the last three Gorillaz records have been overall disappointing for fans and critics alike. Dylan's youth and earnest delivery both work in his favour. His funky and expressionist songs show off his talents for groove and the rough edge keeps it all sounding youthful, without undermining the texture in the guitar work. It's an entertaining, albeit short listen that's got both punch and potential.
Rating: 7/10
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Higher; Wishing Well; Monsters Under The Bed
Worst Tracks: Two's A Pair
Worst Tracks: Two's A Pair
"Jade Bird"
Jade Bird
19/04/2019
This curious blend of Americana and indie folk from rising UK star Jade Bird is an accomplished sounding debut, with consistently impressive songwriting and a clear knack for storytelling and wordplay not so far removed from Fleet Foxes. Musically, Jade Bird's album is at it's best when driven by pummelling slide guitars and also on her most intimate ballads, although I feel that when she trades her guitar for a piano the going gets rather tiresome, a fact particularly noticeable on the poppy "My Motto", the most successful, safe and disappointing track here. Overall, this is a brief listen that manages to leave a mark with some powerful tunes and, whilst it is by no means excellent it's got a handful of tunes strong enough to carry the album.
19/04/2019
This curious blend of Americana and indie folk from rising UK star Jade Bird is an accomplished sounding debut, with consistently impressive songwriting and a clear knack for storytelling and wordplay not so far removed from Fleet Foxes. Musically, Jade Bird's album is at it's best when driven by pummelling slide guitars and also on her most intimate ballads, although I feel that when she trades her guitar for a piano the going gets rather tiresome, a fact particularly noticeable on the poppy "My Motto", the most successful, safe and disappointing track here. Overall, this is a brief listen that manages to leave a mark with some powerful tunes and, whilst it is by no means excellent it's got a handful of tunes strong enough to carry the album.
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: I Get No Joy; If I Die; Lottery; Love Has All Been Done Before
Worst Tracks: My Motto; Going Gone; Does Anybody Know
Worst Tracks: My Motto; Going Gone; Does Anybody Know
"Social Cues"
Cage the Elephant
19/04/2019
I have been meaning to talk about this album for ages, but I've put it off over and over again in place of records I like better or worse because of just how indecisive on this album I have been. I want to like this album, and I really thought I would from the electrifying lead singles, "Ready To Let Go" and "House Of Glass". Much of the album, including those singles, is pretty experimental and whilst I appreciate the creativity musically I can't help feeling that so many of the songs don't come out of their shells enough for any of this to pay off. There's a very trapped atmosphere about this album, which could be perceived as contextually appropriate given the subject matter and focus on frontman Matt Schultz's split from his wife, but for me it acts as more of a limiter on how much you can really get out of these songs. This fact is most prevalent on the many, many ballads on this album and keeps the songs sounding far too grounded and very much caged in (pun intended).
19/04/2019
I have been meaning to talk about this album for ages, but I've put it off over and over again in place of records I like better or worse because of just how indecisive on this album I have been. I want to like this album, and I really thought I would from the electrifying lead singles, "Ready To Let Go" and "House Of Glass". Much of the album, including those singles, is pretty experimental and whilst I appreciate the creativity musically I can't help feeling that so many of the songs don't come out of their shells enough for any of this to pay off. There's a very trapped atmosphere about this album, which could be perceived as contextually appropriate given the subject matter and focus on frontman Matt Schultz's split from his wife, but for me it acts as more of a limiter on how much you can really get out of these songs. This fact is most prevalent on the many, many ballads on this album and keeps the songs sounding far too grounded and very much caged in (pun intended).
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: Broken Boy; Skin and Bones; Goodbye; Ready To Let Go; House Of Glass
Worst Tracks: Night Running; Black Madonna; Dance Dance
Worst Tracks: Night Running; Black Madonna; Dance Dance
"Feeding Seahorses by Hand"
Billie Marten
26/04/2019
There are moments of great writing on this album that don't come across as pretentious, and I do enjoy the majority of these songs, but it doesn't stick the landing enough for me to quite call it great. There's no shortage of good ideas presented, and it does feel like an altogether modern folk pop album; Billie Marten effectively incorporates minimalistic, electronic elements to highlight certain songs and it's a move that works in the album's favour. An immediate standout would be the curious, sceptical "Blood Is Blue", a lilting tune which features some of the album's best writing and production, making for a rather interesting listen. Unfortunately, the same quality of writing is not continued everywhere, and I often feel that the pull I feel to certain songs is so limited because of how undistinguished the other tunes are. As time passes so does this album's charms and listening through becomes extremely passive as the tonal similarities come across as repetitive and boring in later songs. There is emotion, but not enough to save this one.
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: Blood Is Blue; Mice; Cartoon People; Boxes
Worst Tracks: Toulouse; Vanilla Baby; Fish
"The Balance"
Billie Marten
26/04/2019
There are moments of great writing on this album that don't come across as pretentious, and I do enjoy the majority of these songs, but it doesn't stick the landing enough for me to quite call it great. There's no shortage of good ideas presented, and it does feel like an altogether modern folk pop album; Billie Marten effectively incorporates minimalistic, electronic elements to highlight certain songs and it's a move that works in the album's favour. An immediate standout would be the curious, sceptical "Blood Is Blue", a lilting tune which features some of the album's best writing and production, making for a rather interesting listen. Unfortunately, the same quality of writing is not continued everywhere, and I often feel that the pull I feel to certain songs is so limited because of how undistinguished the other tunes are. As time passes so does this album's charms and listening through becomes extremely passive as the tonal similarities come across as repetitive and boring in later songs. There is emotion, but not enough to save this one.
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: Blood Is Blue; Mice; Cartoon People; Boxes
Worst Tracks: Toulouse; Vanilla Baby; Fish
"The Balance"
Catfish and the Bottlemen
26/04/2019
This band makes sense, and honestly that might the biggest issue I have with them. In the interval between the band's last album and this, they have been played absolutely to death on radio stations as the sort of lowest common denominator indie music to keep those lazy 90s fans happy. This band have never pushed the envelope in any way, and with the third instalment in their discography they continue to deliver the safest, least pretentious and least challenging songs possible kept engaging with vaguely memorable, all too familiar riffs and melodies. The singles are nearly all identical, and each one seems less distinct than the last with weaker choruses and frankly pathetic lyrics at this point. At least with their first album they had the excuse of being a new band and a fresh face on the indie scene even if they weren't doing anything new. 4 years on and they have no excuse. They've reached the point where they're no longer just ripping older bands off, they're even ripping themselves off and for a band with no identity that's a pretty awful thing.
26/04/2019
This band makes sense, and honestly that might the biggest issue I have with them. In the interval between the band's last album and this, they have been played absolutely to death on radio stations as the sort of lowest common denominator indie music to keep those lazy 90s fans happy. This band have never pushed the envelope in any way, and with the third instalment in their discography they continue to deliver the safest, least pretentious and least challenging songs possible kept engaging with vaguely memorable, all too familiar riffs and melodies. The singles are nearly all identical, and each one seems less distinct than the last with weaker choruses and frankly pathetic lyrics at this point. At least with their first album they had the excuse of being a new band and a fresh face on the indie scene even if they weren't doing anything new. 4 years on and they have no excuse. They've reached the point where they're no longer just ripping older bands off, they're even ripping themselves off and for a band with no identity that's a pretty awful thing.
Rating: 4/10
Best Tracks: Encore; Longshot
Worst Tracks: Conversation; Overlap; Intermission
Worst Tracks: Conversation; Overlap; Intermission
"Father of the Bride"
Vampire Weekend
03/05/2019
It's been six long years since the band's last album, the acclaimed Modern Vampires of the City, and everyone's favourite controversial privileged indie boys are back with another polarising album. I wish I could say that this band made much of a difference, but to be completely honest this is just a very mixed record that lacks a lot of the spunk of their first two albums, and the maturity and weight of their third. There are some exceptional highs here, but they are counteracted with some of the band's worst material to date. In fact, my biggest problem with the album is definitely it's length and bulk, so many of the songs here feel unfinished and unessential. There's enough here worth holding onto for me to be glad it was released, but not enough of this quality for me to want to listen to the album in its entirety. It's extremely mixed, oftentimes cringy and insensitive, but if you filter out the filler it makes for some of the band's best material. Make of it what you want...
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: Harmony Hall; Stranger; Married in a Gold Rush; This Life
Worst Tracks: Flower Moon; Rich Man; Sunflower; Spring Snow
"End of Suffering"
03/05/2019
It's been six long years since the band's last album, the acclaimed Modern Vampires of the City, and everyone's favourite controversial privileged indie boys are back with another polarising album. I wish I could say that this band made much of a difference, but to be completely honest this is just a very mixed record that lacks a lot of the spunk of their first two albums, and the maturity and weight of their third. There are some exceptional highs here, but they are counteracted with some of the band's worst material to date. In fact, my biggest problem with the album is definitely it's length and bulk, so many of the songs here feel unfinished and unessential. There's enough here worth holding onto for me to be glad it was released, but not enough of this quality for me to want to listen to the album in its entirety. It's extremely mixed, oftentimes cringy and insensitive, but if you filter out the filler it makes for some of the band's best material. Make of it what you want...
Rating: 6/10
Best Tracks: Harmony Hall; Stranger; Married in a Gold Rush; This Life
Worst Tracks: Flower Moon; Rich Man; Sunflower; Spring Snow
"End of Suffering"
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes
03/05/2019
I cannot quite place the demographic this record is aimed at. Who would choose to listen to forty-three minutes of a whiny, almost-middle-aged white guy failing to convey any real emotion on an album reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age's worst material from their last album Villains, with some heaps of Liam Gallagher thrown in for good measure. The production is unflattering to his poor singing and occasionally grungy riffs, and although he aimed for edgy he landed somewhere between Jared Leto and Miles Kane. I can't for the life of me get behind the lyrics, nor do the chugging guitars do enough to carry the songs on their own. I'll stick to Royal Blood thanks, or preferably just Queens of the Stone Age's best stuff.
Rating: 3/10
Best Tracks: Kitty Sucker; Crowbar
Worst Tracks: Love Games; Why a Butterfly Can't Love a Spider; Latex Dreams
"Happy to Be Here"
03/05/2019
I cannot quite place the demographic this record is aimed at. Who would choose to listen to forty-three minutes of a whiny, almost-middle-aged white guy failing to convey any real emotion on an album reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age's worst material from their last album Villains, with some heaps of Liam Gallagher thrown in for good measure. The production is unflattering to his poor singing and occasionally grungy riffs, and although he aimed for edgy he landed somewhere between Jared Leto and Miles Kane. I can't for the life of me get behind the lyrics, nor do the chugging guitars do enough to carry the songs on their own. I'll stick to Royal Blood thanks, or preferably just Queens of the Stone Age's best stuff.
Rating: 3/10
Best Tracks: Kitty Sucker; Crowbar
Worst Tracks: Love Games; Why a Butterfly Can't Love a Spider; Latex Dreams
"Happy to Be Here"
Barrie
03/05/2019
One word that immediately springs to mind when I think of this album is "quaint". It's what I'd describe as a cute, breezy, shoegazey experience that calls back to every previous decade from the 60s onwards, in different little ways. I appreciate how sweet this is, and it's incredibly easy to get into the muffled production on the vocals and ultra-clean guitar tones and flourishes of keys that adds to the hazy vibe without compromising the simplicity of these tunes. Sure, it's not going down as anyone's favourite of the year, but it makes for pleasant background music with just enough drive to be compelling on its own. There's elements here for fans of Wolf Alice, of Mura, and even of Tame Impala, and I promise you it's more interesting than you'd think from a first listen.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Clovers; Casino Run; Hutch; Habits; Dark Tropical
Worst Tracks: Teenager
"Ten Tonnes"
03/05/2019
One word that immediately springs to mind when I think of this album is "quaint". It's what I'd describe as a cute, breezy, shoegazey experience that calls back to every previous decade from the 60s onwards, in different little ways. I appreciate how sweet this is, and it's incredibly easy to get into the muffled production on the vocals and ultra-clean guitar tones and flourishes of keys that adds to the hazy vibe without compromising the simplicity of these tunes. Sure, it's not going down as anyone's favourite of the year, but it makes for pleasant background music with just enough drive to be compelling on its own. There's elements here for fans of Wolf Alice, of Mura, and even of Tame Impala, and I promise you it's more interesting than you'd think from a first listen.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Clovers; Casino Run; Hutch; Habits; Dark Tropical
Worst Tracks: Teenager
"Ten Tonnes"
Ten Tonnes
03/05/2019
George Ezra's little brother might not have the voice to match, and his callback to Blur and Oasis is sadly just another one of the hundreds of albums attempting to recreate that sound. I'll give him this, he does recapture the britpop/indie sound with confidence and purpose, but his tunes don't quite back him up and I feel as though I should be listening to someone more interesting. Even in a reality where we weren't oversaturated with so many records and artists like this, it isn't interesting enough to quite hold it's own. That said, the album does have its standouts, and the biggest highlight for me has to be the unashamedly catchy "Better Than Me", a tune with hooks for days and some of Ten Tonne's most memorable writing. I know it's still early days, but I can't imagine this really going anywhere.
Rating: 5/10
Best Tracks: Better Than Me; Cracks Between; Missing You
Worst Tracks: Lay It on Me; Look What You Started
"Divinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent"
Lewis Capaldi
17/05/2019
Do I regret making myself listen to this album? Well, after enduring 42 minutes and 29 seconds of the gravelliest, most grating voices in pop music, I have to express my distaste for the music Lewis Capaldi is releasing. What I despise is that his voice comes out as rough and raw as it does without conveying a single ounce of emotion. Putting on that tone is a cheap way to trick people into thinking he makes music worth listening to because it's the sort of tone you expect to hear when accompanying an emotive, sad ballad. The issue is that the incredibly mediocre pianos and awfully obnoxious singing just repels any fraction of real emotion that might have been conveyed if the structure and delivery was completely changed. I cannot stand this release and yet, from an objective standpoint it's not necessarily a bad one. I want to hate everything about this album, and I do despise the vast majority of it but simultaneously I appreciate some of the writing, at least when it's not insufferably generic. "Divinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent" is an album fraught with pain but the presentation of Lewis' experiences is so poorly executed that even on the best songs the emotion is swallowed by performance and production flaws. He's a funny guy, but no amount of self-deprecation or humour can save this one.
Rating: 3/10
Best Songs: Maybe; Grace
Worst Songs: Someone You Loved; Fade; Lost On You; Forever
03/05/2019
George Ezra's little brother might not have the voice to match, and his callback to Blur and Oasis is sadly just another one of the hundreds of albums attempting to recreate that sound. I'll give him this, he does recapture the britpop/indie sound with confidence and purpose, but his tunes don't quite back him up and I feel as though I should be listening to someone more interesting. Even in a reality where we weren't oversaturated with so many records and artists like this, it isn't interesting enough to quite hold it's own. That said, the album does have its standouts, and the biggest highlight for me has to be the unashamedly catchy "Better Than Me", a tune with hooks for days and some of Ten Tonne's most memorable writing. I know it's still early days, but I can't imagine this really going anywhere.
Rating: 5/10
Best Tracks: Better Than Me; Cracks Between; Missing You
Worst Tracks: Lay It on Me; Look What You Started
"Divinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent"
Lewis Capaldi
17/05/2019
Rating: 3/10
Best Songs: Maybe; Grace
Worst Songs: Someone You Loved; Fade; Lost On You; Forever
"Origin EP"
Kelly Moran
17/05/2019
I don't usually choose to listen to piano music, but I'm glad I checked this release out. On the followup to her little-known but praised Ultraviolet, she strips back most of the electronics and opts for a more raw, natural tone on her piano. That isn't to say that effects aren't a key component in the music, and to be honest it would be a much less interesting experience without them. This EP feels like a journey, and one filled with challenges and discovery. Perhaps it doesn't quite have the instrumental depth of her last project but the passion is evident through her illustrious melodies and gorgeous textures. It might initially come across as something to sleep to, but I would argue there's enough detail for it to be at the forefront of your mind.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Halogen (Una Corda); Water Music; Night Music
Worst Tracks: Love Birds Night Birds Devil-Birds
"Morningside"
Swimming Tapes
24/05/2019
This album's biggest strengths are it's biggest weaknesses. It's chilled, easy-listening indie pop but it's also condemned to background music as a result of being so unengaging. It's well performed, which almost makes it even less distinguishable from its peers and criminally forgettable. It's just joyous enough to be bland and frankly, it's boring. Short and sweet, but I'd never listen to it as anything other than revision focus music.
Rating: 5/10
Best Tracks: Pyrenees; It Gets Old
Worst Tracks: Say It Isn't So; 10.0.27
"Reasons To Dream"
whenyoung
24/05/2019
After some uninteresting, honestly dull singles, I wasn't hopeful for this band's debut but upon relistening I've been pleasantly surprised and very appreciative of the provocative writing, catchy melodies and surprisingly layered instrumentals. To be honest, this becomes more evident as the album develops and some of the best songs here come in the middle of the tracklist. I still can't get on board with "Future"'s chorus, but even on the track that put me off the band has grown on me. I would have made the mistake of labeling this as a lighthearted, naive but commendable effort but I'm somewhat sold on the vast majority of these tracks. The intricacies are easy to miss amongst the formulaic, basic structures and typical instrumentals, but the lyrics are surprisingly meaningful and the emotion really resonates, even if it can get lost in the swirling synths and overproduced nature of this album.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: You're Grand; Blow Up The World; In My Dreams; Heartbroken
Worst Tracks: Future; Something Sweet
"And Now For The Whatchamacallit"
Psychedelic Porn Crumpets
31/05/2019
I've seen people write off or commend this band as filler for when you're bored of waiting for Tame Impala's next album, but I disagree with this on two levels.
1. We already have Pond for that
2. This band might make psychedelic rock, but they do it in a very different way to Tame Impala.
Firstly, this band clearly isn't nearly as perfectionist as Kevin Parker is: They aren't focused so much on the detail and sound design as they are the chaos and bombast of psychedelic music, and although they can invoke the same feelings of anxiety, paranoia, loss and displacement, they do so in a much more feeling over thinking way. Whilst Kevin Parker's music is all introspective and caught up in his mind, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets are all about the quick expressionist responses to stimuli, and with so much going on in our social, political and technological landscapes they have a lot to say on their new album. The aforementioned chaos of their instrumentals is fronted by distorted guitar riffs, heavily processed vocals and steady drum beats that often feel purposefully lost in the midst of so much else going on. Despite being a cluttered album, it's by no means a difficult listen and it doesn't stray that far from what other bands have done in the past. All in all, it's pretty fun and pretty kooky.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Bill's Mandolin; Hymn for a Droid; Social Candy; When in Rome
Worst Tracks: Native Tongue; Keen for Kick Ons?
"A Different Kind Of Human - Step Two"
Aurora
07/06/2019
An inventive little pop album that takes the curious concept of aliens transporting dead humans to an afterlife of sorts on another planet. It's very creative, and includes some of Aurora's best work yet in terms of having the best beats and most evidently developed songwriting but it doesn't quite achieve the same consistency of Step One and is conclusively underwhelming. She's still an artist to watch, even if this is her weakest album yet, especially considering how good the highlights here are. The soaring chorus on "The Seed" makes it the perfect anthem for climate change awareness and protests, and whilst that's a theme repeated over the course of the album. Similarly, the synthpop perfection of "The River" makes for the best single the album has to offer, and it's arpeggios and wonky rhythms make it the most musically interesting song here. If you're looking for experimental pop, this shouldn't be the first place to go and as mentioned the preceding Infections Of A Different Kind - Step One is the better release, but that's not to say this album has nothing to offer. Check it out if you like Aurora, but there's other artists that do this style of pop in a more proficient way.
Rating: 6/10
Best Songs: The River; A Different Kind Of Human; Apple Tree; The Seed
Worst Songs: Hunger; Animal
"Doom Days"
Bastille
14/06/2019
I mean at least it's better than Wild World.
Rating: 5/10
Best Songs: Doom Days; Joy; Quarter Past Midnight
Worst Songs: The Waves; Million Pieces; Another Place
"7 EP"
Lil Nas X
21/06/2019
Everyone was surprised when Lil Nas X's big hit "Old Town Road" became the longest running number one in the US ever, and despite its pretty universal acclaim it still came as a shock, although it probably shouldn't have. It's a song that perfectly reflects the Internet age, practically embodying all the SoundCloud rap that came before it all the while sounding completely unique and unquestionably different. You can argue all day over how to classify it, but what matters is that this song has left a huge mark on popular music and after scoring a second hit it seems Lil Nas X may be here to stay. The second hit in question, the synth-driven "Panini", is almost as fantastic and definitely deserves the success it has achieved. In terms of other songs on the EP, we're also gifted a pretty surprising take on rock music in the form of "F9mily (You & Me)", an energetic little song that kind of misses the mark in all regards but stands out as an adorable attempt to continue with the kind of genre-bending that made his big hit so outstanding. Even at this EP's worst, it continues to entertain in how humourous these attempts at typical hip-hop lyrics are. It's always fun and usually amusing which is definitely the saving grace to this otherwise mediocre project.
Rating: 6/10
Best Songs: Old Town Road (Remix); Panini; C7losure
Worst Songs: Kick It
"A Bath Full Of Ecstasy"
Hot Chip
21/06/2019
Hot Chip have always dabbled in dance music, but on A Bath Full Of Ecstasy they transition into a sort of alternative club music not so dissimilar to the most recent respective LCD Soundsystem album. However, unlike with James Murphy's partial pivot on that album, Hot Chip's transition is purely stylistic as the substance of the writing, as well as the structure of songs, is hardly different to their previous releases except perhaps for the fact that the length of songs is generally extended to suit their interpretation of dance music. When this album works the band are making pretty straightforward, catchy tunes as they always do, although more often than in their back catalogue the songs land in a disappointing middle ground of unconvincing, danceable but forgettable normality that lacks some of the quirky charms and engaging beats and synths that gave their past albums enough character to get by. Altogether, it's still enjoyable but it can be a slog to get through as the slow builds and predictability make for a rather uninspired listen I wish did more for me.
Rating: 5/10
Best Songs: Positive; Spell; Why Does My Mind
Worst Songs: Bath Full of Ecstasy; Echo
"False Alarm"
Two Door Cinema Club
21/06/2019
Two Door Cinema Club never cease to make fun indie pop, and their latest album is no exception. Diving further into their 80s influences, the band tackle new wave inspired by the likes of The Human League, New Order and A-Ha in a rather spectacular recreation of those sounds. It's their boldest work yet, and although there are a few tracks that severely underperform it's not unexpected after their three previous albums featured very similar issues. All in all, it's hard not to fall for the wry charms of this band, particularly in this new more visually-centred era of their career. The tunes are here, and whilst the surprising depth of their last album is mostly gone it has been replaced with their most infectious hooks, although I'd argue that this catchiness comes at the price of the depth or lack thereof.
Rating: 7/10
Best Songs: Dirty Air; Think; Talk; Satisfaction Guaranteed
Worst Songs: Satellite; So Many People
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Thank you for reading <3
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Kelly Moran
17/05/2019
I don't usually choose to listen to piano music, but I'm glad I checked this release out. On the followup to her little-known but praised Ultraviolet, she strips back most of the electronics and opts for a more raw, natural tone on her piano. That isn't to say that effects aren't a key component in the music, and to be honest it would be a much less interesting experience without them. This EP feels like a journey, and one filled with challenges and discovery. Perhaps it doesn't quite have the instrumental depth of her last project but the passion is evident through her illustrious melodies and gorgeous textures. It might initially come across as something to sleep to, but I would argue there's enough detail for it to be at the forefront of your mind.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Halogen (Una Corda); Water Music; Night Music
Worst Tracks: Love Birds Night Birds Devil-Birds
"Morningside"
Swimming Tapes
24/05/2019
This album's biggest strengths are it's biggest weaknesses. It's chilled, easy-listening indie pop but it's also condemned to background music as a result of being so unengaging. It's well performed, which almost makes it even less distinguishable from its peers and criminally forgettable. It's just joyous enough to be bland and frankly, it's boring. Short and sweet, but I'd never listen to it as anything other than revision focus music.
Rating: 5/10
Best Tracks: Pyrenees; It Gets Old
Worst Tracks: Say It Isn't So; 10.0.27
"Reasons To Dream"
whenyoung
24/05/2019
After some uninteresting, honestly dull singles, I wasn't hopeful for this band's debut but upon relistening I've been pleasantly surprised and very appreciative of the provocative writing, catchy melodies and surprisingly layered instrumentals. To be honest, this becomes more evident as the album develops and some of the best songs here come in the middle of the tracklist. I still can't get on board with "Future"'s chorus, but even on the track that put me off the band has grown on me. I would have made the mistake of labeling this as a lighthearted, naive but commendable effort but I'm somewhat sold on the vast majority of these tracks. The intricacies are easy to miss amongst the formulaic, basic structures and typical instrumentals, but the lyrics are surprisingly meaningful and the emotion really resonates, even if it can get lost in the swirling synths and overproduced nature of this album.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: You're Grand; Blow Up The World; In My Dreams; Heartbroken
Worst Tracks: Future; Something Sweet
"And Now For The Whatchamacallit"
Psychedelic Porn Crumpets
31/05/2019
I've seen people write off or commend this band as filler for when you're bored of waiting for Tame Impala's next album, but I disagree with this on two levels.
1. We already have Pond for that
2. This band might make psychedelic rock, but they do it in a very different way to Tame Impala.
Firstly, this band clearly isn't nearly as perfectionist as Kevin Parker is: They aren't focused so much on the detail and sound design as they are the chaos and bombast of psychedelic music, and although they can invoke the same feelings of anxiety, paranoia, loss and displacement, they do so in a much more feeling over thinking way. Whilst Kevin Parker's music is all introspective and caught up in his mind, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets are all about the quick expressionist responses to stimuli, and with so much going on in our social, political and technological landscapes they have a lot to say on their new album. The aforementioned chaos of their instrumentals is fronted by distorted guitar riffs, heavily processed vocals and steady drum beats that often feel purposefully lost in the midst of so much else going on. Despite being a cluttered album, it's by no means a difficult listen and it doesn't stray that far from what other bands have done in the past. All in all, it's pretty fun and pretty kooky.
Rating: 7/10
Best Tracks: Bill's Mandolin; Hymn for a Droid; Social Candy; When in Rome
Worst Tracks: Native Tongue; Keen for Kick Ons?
"A Different Kind Of Human - Step Two"
Aurora
07/06/2019
An inventive little pop album that takes the curious concept of aliens transporting dead humans to an afterlife of sorts on another planet. It's very creative, and includes some of Aurora's best work yet in terms of having the best beats and most evidently developed songwriting but it doesn't quite achieve the same consistency of Step One and is conclusively underwhelming. She's still an artist to watch, even if this is her weakest album yet, especially considering how good the highlights here are. The soaring chorus on "The Seed" makes it the perfect anthem for climate change awareness and protests, and whilst that's a theme repeated over the course of the album. Similarly, the synthpop perfection of "The River" makes for the best single the album has to offer, and it's arpeggios and wonky rhythms make it the most musically interesting song here. If you're looking for experimental pop, this shouldn't be the first place to go and as mentioned the preceding Infections Of A Different Kind - Step One is the better release, but that's not to say this album has nothing to offer. Check it out if you like Aurora, but there's other artists that do this style of pop in a more proficient way.
Rating: 6/10
Best Songs: The River; A Different Kind Of Human; Apple Tree; The Seed
Worst Songs: Hunger; Animal
"Doom Days"
Bastille
14/06/2019
I mean at least it's better than Wild World.
Rating: 5/10
Best Songs: Doom Days; Joy; Quarter Past Midnight
Worst Songs: The Waves; Million Pieces; Another Place
"7 EP"
Lil Nas X
21/06/2019
Everyone was surprised when Lil Nas X's big hit "Old Town Road" became the longest running number one in the US ever, and despite its pretty universal acclaim it still came as a shock, although it probably shouldn't have. It's a song that perfectly reflects the Internet age, practically embodying all the SoundCloud rap that came before it all the while sounding completely unique and unquestionably different. You can argue all day over how to classify it, but what matters is that this song has left a huge mark on popular music and after scoring a second hit it seems Lil Nas X may be here to stay. The second hit in question, the synth-driven "Panini", is almost as fantastic and definitely deserves the success it has achieved. In terms of other songs on the EP, we're also gifted a pretty surprising take on rock music in the form of "F9mily (You & Me)", an energetic little song that kind of misses the mark in all regards but stands out as an adorable attempt to continue with the kind of genre-bending that made his big hit so outstanding. Even at this EP's worst, it continues to entertain in how humourous these attempts at typical hip-hop lyrics are. It's always fun and usually amusing which is definitely the saving grace to this otherwise mediocre project.
Rating: 6/10
Best Songs: Old Town Road (Remix); Panini; C7losure
Worst Songs: Kick It
"A Bath Full Of Ecstasy"
Hot Chip
21/06/2019
Hot Chip have always dabbled in dance music, but on A Bath Full Of Ecstasy they transition into a sort of alternative club music not so dissimilar to the most recent respective LCD Soundsystem album. However, unlike with James Murphy's partial pivot on that album, Hot Chip's transition is purely stylistic as the substance of the writing, as well as the structure of songs, is hardly different to their previous releases except perhaps for the fact that the length of songs is generally extended to suit their interpretation of dance music. When this album works the band are making pretty straightforward, catchy tunes as they always do, although more often than in their back catalogue the songs land in a disappointing middle ground of unconvincing, danceable but forgettable normality that lacks some of the quirky charms and engaging beats and synths that gave their past albums enough character to get by. Altogether, it's still enjoyable but it can be a slog to get through as the slow builds and predictability make for a rather uninspired listen I wish did more for me.
Rating: 5/10
Best Songs: Positive; Spell; Why Does My Mind
Worst Songs: Bath Full of Ecstasy; Echo
"False Alarm"
Two Door Cinema Club
21/06/2019
Two Door Cinema Club never cease to make fun indie pop, and their latest album is no exception. Diving further into their 80s influences, the band tackle new wave inspired by the likes of The Human League, New Order and A-Ha in a rather spectacular recreation of those sounds. It's their boldest work yet, and although there are a few tracks that severely underperform it's not unexpected after their three previous albums featured very similar issues. All in all, it's hard not to fall for the wry charms of this band, particularly in this new more visually-centred era of their career. The tunes are here, and whilst the surprising depth of their last album is mostly gone it has been replaced with their most infectious hooks, although I'd argue that this catchiness comes at the price of the depth or lack thereof.
Rating: 7/10
Best Songs: Dirty Air; Think; Talk; Satisfaction Guaranteed
Worst Songs: Satellite; So Many People
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Thank you for reading <3
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