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Showing posts from January, 2025

The Night Flight Orchestra - Give Us The Moon (2025)

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"Give Us The Moon" has been praised for its joyful and nostalgic approach to retro hard rock. Critics highlight the album's blend of rock, pop, glossy AOR, arena prog, and disco elements, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Tracks like "Stratus" and "Miraculous" showcase the band's ability to craft catchy, radio-friendly hooks, while "Stewardess, Empress, Hot Mess (And The Captain Of Pain)" stands out for its ambitious, prog-influenced composition. The album is described as a "joy from start to finish," maintaining the band's reputation for delivering high-energy, feel-good music. blabbermouth.net Genre : AOR Country : Sweden Final Verdict: 69% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 6th / 96 Highlight : Like The Beating Of A Heart Made me think of: Journey Toto Foreigner #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AOR #TheNightFlightOrchestra #Sweden #LP #Alb...

Gary Kemp - This Destination (2025)

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"This Destination" has been praised for its lush and ambitious compositions. Critics highlight Kemp's thoughtful lyrics and intricate arrangements, noting the album's blend of jazz-rock elements reminiscent of Steely Dan and the smooth sophistication of 1970s soft rock. The Telegraph describes it as "11 finely detailed songs that marry thoughtfully observed lyrics of ordinary lives in crisis with luxurious melodies and cinematically vast arrangements intricately constructed with polished precision." The album reflects Kemp's personal journey, with themes of self-reflection and contemplation of mortality. Overall, "This Destination" is considered a mature and accomplished work that showcases Kemp's growth as a solo artist. Classic Pop Magazine: Gary Kemp reveals third solo album, This Destination The Telegraph: Gary Kemp: This Destination Genre : Sophisticated pop Country : UK Final Verdict: 67% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 6th / 95 Highlig...

RØRY - RESTORATION (2025)

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"RESTORATION" has been lauded for its unflinching honesty and cathartic storytelling. Critics highlight RØRY's ability to channel personal experiences with addiction, grief, and recovery into powerful narratives that resonate deeply with listeners. The album's opener, "if pain could talk, what would it say?", sets a confessional tone, blending fairytale harmonics with semi-rap elements to convey inner turmoil. Tracks like "In The Bible" and "SORRY I'M LATE" showcase RØRY's knack for crafting anthemic choruses that balance vulnerability with defiance. While the instrumentation leans towards melodic rock, incorporating elements of nu-metal and alt-rock, it serves primarily as a backdrop to RØRY's poignant lyricism. Overall, "RESTORATION" is a compelling debut that offers a raw and authentic look into personal redemption and growth. Sources: Kerrang!: Album review: RØRY – RESTORATION Punktastic: RØRY – 'Restoration...

Teddy Swims - I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) (2025)

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"I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2)" has garnered mixed reviews from critics. The Guardian describes the album as "retro soul with a retro lyrical attitude," suggesting that while Swims' vocal delivery is compelling, the lyrical content may feel dated.  NME praises the album as a "soothing sequel," highlighting its blend of vintage soul with modern production techniques.  Financial Times notes that the album delivers "more tales of romantic turbulence," emphasizing Swims' consistent thematic focus on love and relationships.  Overall, the album showcases Swims' soulful vocals and emotive storytelling, though some critics suggest a desire for more contemporary lyrical themes. Sources: The Guardian: Teddy Swims: I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) review NME: Teddy Swims – 'I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part Two)' review Genre : Retro Soul Country : US Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Rankin...

Flipturn - Burnout Days (2025)

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"Burnout Days" has been praised for its cohesive blend of shimmering soundscapes and nostalgic lyrics, reflecting the band's growth and maturity. Critics highlight Flipturn's impressive knack for hooks and the album's balance between raw, rhythmic moments and sonic experimentation. Some reviewers note that while the album introduces new instrumentation and a more polished production, certain tracks may feel reminiscent of their previous work. Overall, "Burnout Days" is considered a significant evolution in Flipturn's sound, showcasing their staying power in the indie-rock scene. Tinnitist: Albums Of The Week: Flipturn | Burnout Days Off The Record Press: Flipturn Cements Signature Sound with Sophomore Album “Burnout Days” New Noise Magazine: Album Review: Flipturn – Burnout Days Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 14th / 92 Highlight : Rodeo Clown Made me think of: The Band CAMINO The Wombats Foster the Pe...

Pink Siifu - BLACK’!ANTIQUE (2025)

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"BLACK'!ANTIQUE" has been lauded for its ambitious and eclectic nature. Critics highlight the album's diverse soundscapes, ranging from industrial beats to psychedelic melodies, creating a dynamic listening experience. The project features a variety of collaborators, including BbyMutha, Liv.e, Ho99o9, and 454, whose contributions deepen the album's rich auditory tapestry. Tracks like "Alive & Direct'!" and the title track exude a spiky, energetic quality, while songs such as "Sleepatthewheel'!" and "Translation'!" explore more experimental territories. Overall, the album is praised for its memorable melodies and innovative production, solidifying Pink Siifu's position as a forward-thinking artist in the contemporary music scene. Stereogum: Pink Siifu Releases Intense, Ambitious New Album 'BLACK'!ANTIQUE FLOOD Magazine: Pink Siifu, “BLACK'!ANTIQUE” Clash Magazine: Pink Siifu - BLACK'!ANTIQUE | Review...

Brian John McBrearty - Remembering Repeating (2025)

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"Remembering Repeating" has been praised for its warm tones and meditative compositions. Critics highlight McBrearty's use of synthesizers, complemented by Matt Douglas on saxophones, clarinet, and flute, and Ryan Jewell on drums and percussion, to create a sound reminiscent of spiritual jazz infused with ambient elements. The album's tracks, such as "Remembering" and "Repeating," showcase a blend of lush calmness with subtle complexities, offering a listening experience that is both soothing and intellectually engaging. Overall, the album is considered a beautiful and passionate addition to McBrearty's discography, marking a new artistic chapter for the musician. popmatters.com Genre : Ambient Jazz Country : US Final Verdict: 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 10th / 90 Highlight : Unfolding Made me think of: Nils Frahm Ryuichi Sakamoto Eric Serra #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdisc...

Vanarin - Hazy Days (2025)

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  "Hazy Days" has been praised for its endearing exploration of youth and nostalgia. The album opens with "Hey Listen," a track that sets the tone with its playful and adventurous spirit. Critics have noted the album's eclectic mix, seamlessly blending nu soul and progressive rock elements. The production evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of early 2000s psychedelic anthems like MGMT's "Electric Feel." Themes of adolescent uncertainty and self-reflection are prevalent throughout, with tracks like "My Circle" and "I Don't Know" delving into youthful confusion and personal growth. The album's calm yet boundary-pushing blend offers a familiar yet exciting listening experience, making it a standout project that resonates with listeners on multiple levels. theauxmagazine.com The AUX Magazine: Album Review: "Hazy Days" by Vanarin Genre : Art Pop Country : UK / Italy Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranki...

School Fair - Bird the Kid (2025)

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"Bird the Kid" has been praised for its cinematic and emphatically emotional compositions. Critics highlight the album's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while exploring new musical horizons. The band's use of haunting melodies and reflective lyrics creates an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. Tracks like "Gorse the Golden" and "A Torn Moon Mended" showcase the band's talent for crafting dreamy sequences that build slowly, never peaking but ending where they started, leaving listeners in a contemplative state. The album is considered a significant evolution from their previous work, "Gorse on a Hill," pushing out of post-punk into a fusion of genres that defies easy categorization. schoolfair.bandcamp.com stilllisteningmagazine.com nieuweplaat.nl Genre : Post Punk Country : New Zealand Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 35th / 88 Highlight : a torn moon mended Made me think of: The Chills The Clean The Verlaines #ne...

Voice Actor & Squu - Lust 1 (2025)

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"Lust (1)" has been praised for its hypnotic blend of ambient textures and experimental pop elements. Critics highlight the album's ability to create a dreamlike atmosphere, with Voice Actor's ethereal vocals intertwining seamlessly with Squu's intricate production. The tracks oscillate between hazy ambient soundscapes and subtle rhythmic structures, offering a meditative listening experience. While some listeners may find the abstract nature of the compositions challenging, the album is lauded for its cohesive exploration of mood and texture, solidifying the duo's place in the experimental music scene. pitchfork.com Boomkat: Voice Actor, Squu - Lust 1 Bandcamp: Lust (1) | Voice Actor, Squu - STROOM.tv Genre : Hypnagogic Pop Country : Belgium / Uk Final Verdict: 57% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking : 80th / 87 Highlight : Fields Made me think of: Dean Blunt Fennesz Tim Hecker #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPl...

Ghais Guevara - Goyard Ibn Said (2025)

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"Goyard Ibn Said" has been lauded for its ambitious narrative and complex production. Critics highlight Guevara's ability to craft a cohesive concept album that delves into themes of exploitation within the entertainment industry, particularly focusing on the commodification of Black artists. The album's two-act structure effectively contrasts the protagonist's rise to fame with the subsequent personal and systemic challenges faced. The production is described as a "wall-of-sound" that merges elements of trap, cloud rap, and classical music, creating a hypnotic and disorienting listening experience. Guevara's rapid-fire delivery and thought-provoking lyrics further enhance the album's impact, solidifying his place in the experimental hip-hop landscape. Sources: Bandcamp Daily: Ghais Guevara, “Goyard Ibn Said” The Line of Best Fit: Ghais Guevara rebuilds underground rap on Goyard Ibn Said FLOOD Magazine: Ghais Guevara Is No Longer Finding His Own ...

Beneath A Steel Sky - Cleave (2025)

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"Cleave" has been praised for its hypnotic and relaxing qualities, with minimalistic yet deceptively complex compositions that make for fantastic music to chill out and relax to. The album's ambient elements are achieved through the clever implementation of backing tracks and soundscapes, as well as well-crafted ambient guitar tones. However, some critics feel that the production doesn't fully capture the intensity of the heavier sections, leaving them less impactful than intended. Overall, "Cleave" is considered a promising debut that balances calm, atmospheric passages with heavier, more aggressive moments, showcasing the band's potential in the post-metal genre. Sources: Ever Metal: Beneath A Steel Sky – Cleave Metal Temple: Beneath A Steel Sky – Cleave The Razor's Edge: Album Review: Beneath A Steel Sky – Cleave Genre : Post Metal Country : UK Final Verdict : 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 12th / 85 Highlight : The infinite silence that follow...

Ale Hop - Mapambazuko (2025)

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"Mapambazuko" has been praised for its inventive fusion of Ale Hop's psychedelic Latin rhythms and Titi Bakorta's lively soukous-inspired guitar lines. The album features six original tracks and three remixes, delivering a vibrant musical tapestry that is both chaotic and harmonious. Highlights include the jubilant "Bonne Année" with its eclectic electronic horns and industrial beats, the upbeat "Una Cumbia en Kinshasa," and the hallucinatory "Así Baila el Sintetizador." While some remixes may disrupt the duo's balance, the album is lauded for its innovation and the deft synergy between the artists, continuing a tradition of African and Latin musical crossovers. Sources: Pitchfork: Ale Hop & Titi Bakorta: Mapambazuko The Guardian: Ale Hop & Titi Bakorta: Mapambazuko review – Congolese soukous gets a maximalist makeover The Skinny: Titi & Ale Hop – Mapambazuko Genre : Neo Psychedelia Country : Peru Final Verdict: 58% (Forg...

DITZ - Never Exhale (2025)

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"Never Exhale" has been praised for its raw energy and cohesive execution. Critics highlight the album's relentless intensity, with tracks like "Taxi Man" and "18 Wheeler" showcasing the band's signature blend of abrasive guitar riffs and dynamic rhythms. The production captures the visceral essence of DITZ's live performances, delivering a sound that's both chaotic and meticulously crafted. While some reviewers note moments where the album's aggression can feel overwhelming, the consensus is that "Never Exhale" solidifies DITZ's position in the contemporary post-punk scene, offering a compelling listening experience for fans of the genre. Sources: Clunk Magazine: Review | DITZ – Never Exhale Under the Radar Magazine: DITZ: Never Exhale (Republic of Music/Domino Publishing) - review Far Out Magazine: DITZ – 'Never Exhale' album review Genre : post-punk Country : UK Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 1...

Kathryn Mohr - Waiting Room (2025)

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"Waiting Room" has been lauded for its evocative and immersive qualities. Critics highlight Mohr's ability to harness feelings of discomfort and isolation, infusing her compositions with a lingering, impressionistic gloom. The album, written during a residency at an abandoned Icelandic fish factory, utilizes field recordings, reverbed vocals, and stark instrumentals to create a distinctive filmic quality. The natural and industrial elements collide, producing an uncanny, haunted atmosphere. Mohr's blend of sinister production and gentle vocals bridges the eerie and the sublime, resulting in a work that is both unsettling and beautiful. Sources: Pitchfork: Kathryn Mohr: Waiting Room Album Review Treble: Kathryn Mohr : Waiting Room Beats Per Minute: Album Review: Kathryn Mohr – Waiting Room Genre : Experimental Folk Country : US Final Verdict: 53% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 82th / 82 Highlight : Diver Made me think of: Julianna Barwick Emma Ruth Rundle Circui...

Sam Amidon - Salt River (2025)

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"Salt River" showcases Sam Amidon's distinctive approach to folk music, blending traditional elements with contemporary interpretations. Collaborating with producer and jazz musician Sam Gendel and percussionist Philippe Melanson, Amidon reimagines songs by artists like Lou Reed, Yoko Ono, and Ornette Coleman, alongside traditional Appalachian ballads. Critics praise the album's inventive arrangements and the seamless fusion of genres, though some note moments where the execution feels less dynamic. Overall, "Salt River" is recognized as a testament to Amidon's ability to honor folk traditions while pushing their boundaries. Pitchfork: Sam Amidon: Salt River Album Review The Guardian: Sam Amidon: Salt River review – an eclectic if erratic affair Genre : Contemporary Folk Country : US Final Verdict: 59% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking : 66th / 81 Highlight : Never Made me think of: Bon Iver Iron & Wine Andrew Bird #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrel...

Central Cee - Can't rush Greatness (2025)

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Central Cee's "Can't Rush Greatness" showcases his confidence and technical prowess, reflecting on themes of pre- and post-fame life. Critics note the album's blend of British identity with international appeal, featuring collaborations with artists like Lil Baby and subtle samples from Ne-Yo and Wu-Tang Clan. While some tracks highlight his adeptness and introspection, others suggest a struggle to maintain momentum across its 17 tracks. Overall, the album offers an honest depiction of the challenges and contradictions of sudden fame, solidifying Central Cee's position in the rap scene. Sources: theguardian.com theguardian.com crackmagazine.net Genre : UK Drill Country : UK Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 37th / 80 Highlight : Truth In The Lies Made me think of: Headie One M Huncho Fredo #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #UKDrill #CentralCee #UK #LP #Album #release  

Matt Berry - Heard Noises (2025)

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Critics have praised "Heard Noises" for its polished production and Berry's impressive knack for melody. The album is described as a cohesive blend of 60s soul, 70s funk, and psychedelic elements, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. Berry's vocals are noted for their confidence and range, adding depth to the intricate arrangements. The album's diverse influences and seamless fusion of genres have been highlighted as standout features, making it a significant addition to Berry's discography. Sources: theharvestmaidsrevenge.com loudersound.com xsnoize.com Genre : Psychedelic Pop Country : UK Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 36th / 79 Highlight : I Entered As I Came Made me think of: Gruff Rhys Super Furry Animals The High Llamas #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #PsychedelicPop #MattBerry #UK #LP #Album #release  

Motherhood - Thunder Perfect Mind (2025)

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"Thunder Perfect Mind" is Motherhood's fifth and most cohesive album to date. The band masterfully blends controlled chaos with inventive storytelling, delivering a concept album that narrates the abduction of a protagonist by a dark, expanding cloud. Tracks like "Bok Globule" showcase their ability to merge punk intensity with playful, reverb-drenched surf rock, while songs such as "Wandering" offer a more melodic and introspective experience. Critics praise the album's vitality and the trio's seamless navigation between hard-hitting and experimental sounds, resulting in a record that's both approachable and deeply engaging. Sources: Exclaim! God Is In The TV Motherhood Genre : Indie Rock Country : Canada Final Verdict: 61% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 48th / 78 Highlight : Wandering Made me think of: Deerhoof Protomartyr Parquet Courts #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscover...

Tunng - Love You All Over Again (2025)

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Tunng's "Love You All Over Again" marks a return to their roots, blending acoustic melodies with electronic textures to create a soundscape that's both nostalgic and fresh. Critics praise the album's inventive arrangements and whimsical lyrics, noting its seamless fusion of folk and electronic elements. The interplay of male and female vocals adds depth, while the intricate instrumentation offers a rich listening experience. Overall, the album is described as a delightful journey that balances experimentation with accessibility, reaffirming Tunng's place in the folktronica genre. Sources: theguardian.com The Arts Desk MusicOMH For Folk's Sake Silent Radio Genre : Folktronica Country : UK Final Verdict : 59% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking : 62th / 77 Highlight : Drifting Memory Station Made me think of: The Beta Band Iron & Wine Sufjan Stevens #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Fo...

C Duncan - It's Only A Love Song (2025)

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"It's Only A Love Song" is a cohesive and richly orchestrated album that explores the multifaceted nature of love. Drawing inspiration from artists like Scott Walker and The Carpenters, as well as film scores by Michel Legrand and Leonard Bernstein, C Duncan crafts a sound that is both nostalgic and timeless. The album features sumptuous string arrangements, many performed by Duncan's parents, retired classical musicians, adding a personal touch to the compositions. Tracks like "Lucky Today" and "Triste Clair de Lune" showcase his ability to blend romanticism with a hint of wistfulness, creating an immersive listening experience. While some critics note that the album may not be revolutionary, it succeeds in delivering a warm and comforting collection of love songs that resonate with sincerity and emotional depth. Silent Radio faroutmagazine.co.uk AllMusic Genre : Chamber Pop Country : UK Final Verdict : 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 40th / 76 ...

Chris Eckman - The Land We Knew the Best (2025)

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Critics have lauded The Land We Knew the Best for its immersive storytelling and evocative soundscapes. Uncut magazine awarded the album a 9/10, describing it as "some of the best music of his life...a remarkable album." Americana UK praised Eckman as "one of America’s finest songwriters," noting the album's "emotional depths with an opalescent beauty." The record is characterized by its dark ambiance, distorted crescendos, and deep-voiced storytelling, creating a rough-hewn yet undeniable beauty. Chris Eckman Bandcamp Rough Trade Norman Records Genre : Alt Country Country : US Final Verdict: 59% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 58th / 75 Highlight : Last Train Home Made me think of: Mark Lanegan Bill Callahan Damien Jurado #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AltCountry #ChrisEckman #US #LP #Album #release  

Benjamin Booker - Lower (2025)

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LOWER is a profoundly personal outing that gathers Booker's influences and life experiences together and filters them through a psychedelic lens to emerge with chaotic arrangements that act as the perfect canvas for Booker's open conversation about feelings most would try to hide. Glide Magazine Pitchfork FLOOD Genre : Hypnagogic Pop Country : US Final Verdict: 57% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 64th / 74 Highlight : SAME KIND OF LONELY Made me think of: Jack White Michael Kiwanuka Benjamin Clementine #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #HypnagogicPop #BenjaminBooker #US #LP #Album #release  

Rose City Band - Sol Y Sombra (2025)

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"Sol y Sombra" continues Rose City Band's exploration of sun-kissed, timeless country rock, blending laid-back melodies with a touch of melancholia. The album features Ripley Johnson's silky guitar solos complemented by Barry Walker Jr.'s supple pedal-steel stylings, creating a front-porch ambiance that is both comforting and introspective. Tracks like "Lights on the Way" evoke a sense of a sunset drive through open deserts, capturing the essence of a journey that balances light and shadow. Critics have noted that while the album follows a familiar formula, it avoids feeling formulaic, instead offering a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The interplay between Johnson and Walker is particularly highlighted, with their collaboration bringing a radiant light to the album's sweet melodies. Overall, "Sol y Sombra" is praised for its effortless momentum and the joy it carries, making it a standout addition to Rose City Band's disco...