NTTR - No Time to Review

choke enough is the debut studio album by French musician Oklou, released on February 7, 2025, via True Panther Sounds. The album showcases Oklou's unique blend of synth-pop and bedroom pop, infused with medieval and Baroque influences. Collaborating with producers A.G. Cook, Danny L Harle, and Casey MQ, Oklou crafts a soundscape that intertwines digital precision with classical motifs. Tracks like "Thank You for Recording" feature synth flutes reminiscent of Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf , while "Ict" incorporates trumpet refrains that echo Baroque compositions. Guest appearances by Bladee on "Take Me by the Hand" and underscores on "Harvest Sky" add diverse textures to the album. While the production is lauded for its sophistication and dynamic range, some critics note that the lyrical content and vocal delivery occasionally blend into the mix, making the album more of a formalistic experience than a visceral one. Overall, choke enoug...

Not Around But Through is the latest album by Portland-based experimental musician Randall Taylor, known as Amulets. Released on February 21, 2025, via Beacon Sound, the album delves into themes of acceptance and introspection, exploring the emotional journey of confronting trauma and vulnerability. Taylor employs his signature use of handmade cassette tape loops and live guitar processing to craft immersive soundscapes that oscillate between gentle, meandering passages and explosive, cathartic crescendos. Tracks like "Lifelike," featuring vocals from Madeline Johnston (Midwife), pulsate with post-shoegaze energy, while "Lowercase Letters" incorporates the rich tones of Daniel Kublick's saxophone, adding depth to the album's sonic palette. Overall, Not Around But Through stands as a testament to Amulets' ability to transform personal experiences into universally resonant auditory art, offering listeners a cathartic and hopeful journey through sound. So...

It Will Be Like Now is Vulture Feather's second album, released on February 14, 2025, via Felte Records. The band, comprising Colin McCann, Brian Gossman, and Eric Fiscus, hails from the remote mountains of Northern California. Their music is characterized by a fusion of indie rock and post-punk elements, drawing comparisons to bands like Lungfish and Wolf Parade. The album delves into themes of impermanence and existential introspection, with tracks like "Flesh and Electronics" exploring the transient nature of life. Recorded at Tim Green's Louder Studios, the production captures a raw and immersive sound that complements the band's emotive songwriting. Overall, It Will Be Like Now offers a compelling blend of atmospheric instrumentation and poignant lyricism, solidifying Vulture Feather's place in the contemporary indie rock scene. Sources: CVLT Nation Review Bandcamp Album Page Austin Town Hall Feature Rosy Overdrive Review Genre : Indie Rock Country : US...

DETOX marks ONE OK ROCK's 11th studio album, coinciding with their 20th anniversary. The album signifies a return to their rock roots, moving away from the pop influences of previous works like Eye of the Storm (2019) and Luxury Disease (2022). Produced by industry veterans Rob Cavallo, Dan Lancaster, and Pete Nappi, DETOX explores themes of societal complacency, modern politics, and humanity's complex relationship with technology. Tracks such as "NASTY" deliver high-energy performances, while "C.U.R.I.O.S.I.T.Y." features collaborations with Okinawan rapper CHICO CARLITO and metalcore band Paledusk, adding a diverse sonic palette to the album. While some critics note that the album's polished production may lack a certain edge, it is generally seen as a step forward, blending pop and hard rock elements effectively. Overall, DETOX offers a varied and engaging listening experience, reflecting the band's evolution and maturity over two decades. So...

Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams marks Patterson Hood's fourth solo album and his first in over a decade. The album embarks on a reverse chronological journey through Hood's life, beginning with the titular track "Exploding Trees," which recounts a devastating ice storm in his hometown of Florence, Alabama, in 1994. This event serves as a metaphorical prelude to Hood's subsequent move to Athens, Georgia, marking a pivotal transition in his life. The album features collaborations with notable artists such as Katie Crutchfield (Waxahatchee) on "The Forks of Cypress," Lydia Loveless on "A Werewolf and a Girl," and the band Wednesday on "The Van Pelt Parties." These partnerships infuse the record with diverse textures, blending Hood's Southern rock roots with elements of folk, indie, and orchestral arrangements. Produced by Chris Funk, the album incorporates a rich tapestry of sounds, including strings, woodwinds, and analog sy...

Wasteland is Jim Ghedi's fourth solo album, released on February 21, 2025. The album delves into themes of modern societal challenges, blending personal narratives with broader reflections on contemporary issues. Tracks like "Old Stones" and "What Will Become Of England" showcase Ghedi's intricate guitar work and evocative vocals, creating a soundscape that is both intense and brooding. The production incorporates traditional folk elements with a progressive twist, resulting in a profoundly bold sonic statement. Overall, Wasteland captures the enormity of life, zooming in on personal experiences while reflecting on societal issues, making it a compelling addition to the modern folk genre. Sources: Jim Ghedi's Bandcamp Page KLOF Magazine Review Stereogum Article Rough Trade Album Listing Genre : Progressive Folk Country : UK Final Verdict : 68% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 15th / 179 Highlight : Wishing Tree Made me think of: Henry Parker Chris Brain D...

Disco Symphony is a celebratory album where French disco pioneer Cerrone collaborates with the Symphony Orchestra of Cannes to reinterpret 21 of his classic tracks. Under the direction of Randy Kerber, the orchestra infuses Cerrone's iconic disco hits with rich strings, sharp brass, and dynamic percussion, elevating the original compositions to new symphonic heights. The fusion of electronic dance grooves with orchestral arrangements offers a fresh and grandiose take on timeless tracks like "Love in C Minor" and "Supernature." This album not only pays homage to Cerrone's influential career but also bridges the gap between classic disco and orchestral music, providing a lush and immersive listening experience. Sources: Juno Records Rough Trade AllMusic Genre : Orchestral Disco Country : France Final Verdict : 82% (Excellent Album) Yearly Ranking : 1st / 178 Highlight : The Impact (Symphonic Version) (added to my 2025 best of) Made me think of: Giorgio Morod...

A Plague upon Thee is Apocalypse Orchestra's sophomore album, released on February 14, 2025. The album continues the band's unique fusion of medieval melodies with doom metal, creating an immersive and atmospheric experience. Tracks like "Virago" and "Saint Yersinia" showcase the band's ability to blend ancient instruments such as the hurdy-gurdy and bagpipes with heavy guitar riffs and powerful drumming. The production is polished, allowing each element to shine and contribute to the album's cohesive sound. Overall, A Plague upon Thee solidifies Apocalypse Orchestra's place in the metal scene, offering a fresh take on the genre that is both innovative and deeply rooted in historical themes. Sources: Apocalypse Orchestra Official Website Apocalypse Orchestra on Bandcamp Angry Metal Guy Review Album of The Year User Review Genre : Medieval Metal Country : Sweden Final Verdict: 69% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 9th / 177 Highlight : Sacrament of ...

Rarely Do I Dream is Youth Lagoon's fifth album, inspired by Trevor Powers' discovery of childhood home videos. The album blends personal memories with mythical elements of the American West, creating a sonic collage that features loping piano melodies, shredding guitars, and buzzing synths. Produced alongside Rodaidh McDonald, the record transitions from deeply personal reflections to broader narratives, populated with colorful, diverse characters. Powers' distinctive voice resonates through tracks characterized by a driving rhythm section and cinematic arrangements. Overall, Rarely Do I Dream is a compelling addition to Youth Lagoon's discography, showcasing Powers' growth as a storyteller and composer. Sources: Pitchfork: Youth Lagoon: Rarely Do I Dream Album Review Beats Per Minute: Album Review: Youth Lagoon – Rarely Do I Dream Under the Radar: Youth Lagoon: Rarely Do I Dream Review Genre : Dream Pop Country : US Final Verdict: 69% (Good Album) Yearly Rankin...

Motorpsycho is a self-titled album that exemplifies the band's eclectic approach to music, blending elements of progressive rock, psychedelic rock, and alternative genres. The album offers a diverse range of tracks, from concise three-minute pop-rock songs to expansive 20-minute progressive epics. This variety showcases Motorpsycho's ability to seamlessly navigate between different musical styles, creating a cohesive yet dynamic listening experience. The production quality is top-notch, highlighting the band's intricate arrangements and musicianship. Overall, Motorpsycho stands as a testament to the band's versatility and innovation in the European rock scene. Tinnitist: Albums Of The Week: Motorpsycho Motorpsycho Official Biography: motorpsycho.no AllMusic: Motorpsycho Genre : Psychedelic Rock Country : Norway Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 39th / 175 Highlight : Three Frightened Monkeys Made me think of: The Mars Volta Hawkwind Can #newalbum #newal...

Black Rain Falls is Wren's third full-length album, delivering a scathing, crushing, and relentless post-metal onslaught. The album marries the polish of post-metal influences with the sparseness and punch of prime noise-rock, creating a unique and immersive soundscape. Tracks like "Flowers of Earth" and "Toil in the Undergrowth" showcase the band's ability to craft rich atmospheres before unleashing slow, dragging riffs that evoke a sense of inevitability and decay. The musicianship is top-notch, with searing sludge guitar riffs, harsh shouted vocals, and doom-laden drums contributing to a pervasive sense of despair and longing. Overall, Black Rain Falls is a pioneering work of heavy music that avoids tired clichés, keeping the listener gripped and engrossed throughout its harsh and severe passage. Sources: The Sleeping Shaman: Review: Wren 'Black Rain Falls' Ghost Cult Magazine: Album Review: Wren – Black Rain Falls Encyclopaedia Metallum: Wren G...

The Escapologist is a dynamic and genre-blending album that showcases Jason Bieler's versatility in songwriting and performance. The album seamlessly fuses elements of progressive rock, hard rock, and synth-pop, delivering a rich and varied listening experience. Tracks like "Industrious" and "Savior" captivate with their intricate arrangements and infectious energy, while "Hollow" offers a poignant, balladic contrast. The musicianship is top-notch, with standout performances from the ensemble, including Andee Blacksugar on guitar, Edu Cominato on drums, and Johan Niemann on bass. Overall, The Escapologist is a compelling addition to Bieler's discography, appealing to fans of melodic and progressive music. Sources: myglobalmind.com Progreport jasonbieler.bandcamp.com Genre : Progressive Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 39th / 173 Highlight : Zombies & Black Swans Made me think of: The Aristocrats Spock's B...

"Gold" is a relentless and intense album that showcases Scour's mastery in blending black metal with elements of grindcore and death metal. The album delivers a merciless sonic assault, characterized by high-speed aggression and haunting atmospheres. Tracks like Cross and Blades set a blistering pace, while interludes such as Ornaments provide eerie, atmospheric contrasts. The production is crisp and powerful, allowing each instrument to shine through the chaos. Overall, Gold is a formidable addition to the extreme metal genre, solidifying Scour's position as a force to be reckoned with. Genre : Blackened Death Metal Country : US Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 132th / 172 Highlight : Infusorium Made me think of: Mayhem Gorgoroth Behemoth #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #BlackenedDeathMetal #Scour #US #LP #Album #release  

"Psalmus Mortis" marks a significant return for members of the defunct Spawn of Possession, delivering a technical death metal experience that balances complexity with atmospheric depth. Tracks like "Vanished" and "Aunt Christie's Will" feature intricate guitar work and dynamic tempo shifts, reflecting the band's evolution. While the album pays homage to its roots, it also explores new sonic territories, incorporating eerie atmospheres and melodic elements. Some critics note that, despite its technical brilliance, certain production choices may feel reminiscent of earlier eras. Overall, "Psalmus Mortis" is a compelling addition to the technical death metal genre, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers. Angry Metal Guy Review Retromorphosis Bandcamp Page Season of Mist Artist Page Genre : Technical Death Metal Country : Sweden Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 98th / 171 Highlight : Aunt Christie's Will Made me th...

"This Consequence" showcases Killswitch Engage's commitment to their established metalcore sound, delivering a collection of tracks that resonate with both aggression and melody. Critics have noted the album's powerful guitar riffs and dynamic vocal performances, particularly highlighting songs like "I Believe" and "Where It Dies" for their compelling compositions. However, some reviews point out a perceived lack of innovation, suggesting that while the album is solid, it doesn't significantly deviate from the band's previous work. Overall, "This Consequence" reinforces Killswitch Engage's position in the metalcore genre, offering fans a familiar yet potent listening experience. metaladdicts.com Genre : Melodic Metalcore Country : US Final Verdict: 61% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 115th / 170 Highlight : The Fall of Us Made me think of: All That Remains Trivium Avenged Sevenfold #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic...

"In Thrall to Heresy" marks a significant evolution in Shepherds of Cassini's sound, delivering a cohesive blend of heavy riffs, intricate melodies, and experimental structures. The album's production is noted for its substantial and dynamic quality, effectively capturing the band's expansive sonic palette. Tracks like "Mirrors Have No Memory" and "Raijin" exemplify the band's ability to seamlessly integrate progressive metal with psychedelic and Middle Eastern musical influences. Critics have praised the album for its ambitious compositions and the band's technical proficiency, highlighting it as a standout release in the progressive metal genre. Shepherds of Cassini Official Website Genre : Progressive Metal Country : New Zealand Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 100th / 169 Highlight : Red Veil Made me think of: Anathema Karnivool Tool #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPla...

"People Watching" sees Sam Fender expanding his sound while staying true to his working-class storytelling roots. Produced by Markus Dravs and Adam Granduciel, the album blends grandiose, Springsteen-esque arrangements with intimate, introspective songwriting. Tracks like "Chin Up" and "Crumbling Empire" explore themes of fame, isolation, and resilience, while "TV Dinner" and "Remember My Name" offer more stripped-back, poignant moments. While some critics argue that the large-scale production at times overshadows Fender’s raw storytelling, People Watching ultimately solidifies his place as one of the UK’s most compelling modern songwriters. The Guardian Review Genre : Indie Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 96th / 168 Highlight : Wild Long Lie Made me think of: Bruce Springsteen The War on Drugs Jake Bugg #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #mus...

"The Distaff" is an ambitious and deeply introspective album exploring themes of femininity, identity, and personal agency. Built around acoustic piano and ethereal vocals, the record weaves elements of neoclassical, avant-garde, and dark folk into its soundscape. Tracks like "Siphonophores" feature dissonant instrumentation juxtaposed with delicate melodies, highlighting the album’s dynamic tension between restraint and catharsis. Guest contributions from Seb Rochford (drums) and Alison Chesley (cello) add further depth to the record. While haunting and evocative, The Distaff challenges listeners with its complex, emotionally layered compositions. Genre : Dark Folk Country : Scotland / Spain Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 79th / 167 Highlight : Despeñaperros Made me think of: Chelsea Wolfe Emma Ruth Rundle The 3rd & the Mortal #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #DarkFolk #...

"Basia's Palace" marks a vibrant shift in Basia Bulat's musical journey, presenting a collection of songs that intertwine her signature folk roots with lush electronic arrangements. Tracks like "Disco Polo" pay homage to her Polish heritage, infusing celebratory pop elements, while "Spirit" and "My Angel" exude a buoyant energy. Despite its upbeat tone, the album explores themes of heartache and introspection, with "The Moon" and "Curtain Call" showcasing its more melancholic side. While some critics note it may not significantly expand her fanbase, Basia’s Palace is a warm, nostalgic, and cohesive listening experience. Sources: The Arts Desk Review musicOMH Review Bearded Gentlemen Music Review Genre : Baroque Pop Country : Canada Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 35th / 166 Highlight : Baby Made me think of: Laura Gibson Kathleen Edwards First Aid Kit #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmu...

"The Breeze Grew a Fire" is a deeply introspective album where Mereba refines her fusion of R&B, soul, and folk. The record features hushed, atmospheric production and poetic storytelling, with highlights such as "Ever Needed" and "Out of the Blue" . The album’s themes explore love, freedom, and self-reflection, with subtle nods to her Ethiopian heritage. While its calm, meditative sound is appreciated, some critics feel it lacks dynamic variation. Genre : Alternative R&B Country : US Final Verdict : 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 23th / 165 Highlight : Ever Needed Made me think of: Ravyn Lenae Amber Mark Lianne La Havas #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AlternativeR&B #Mereba #US #LP #Album #release  

ATMOSPHERICS" represents a significant evolution for Hands Like Houses, introducing Josh Raven as the new frontman and exploring a thematic structure inspired by atmospheric layers. The album's ambitious scope is evident in its division into four distinct sections, each aiming to capture a unique sonic atmosphere. Tracks like "Heaven" and "Better Before" showcase the band's dynamic range, blending electronic elements with hard rock influences. Collaborations with artists such as Aaron Gillespie and Emmy Mack add depth and variety to the album's sound. However, some critics note that, despite its length, the album occasionally lacks cohesion and innovation, with certain tracks blending into one another without distinct identity. Overall, "ATMOSPHERICS" is a bold and expansive project that reflects Hands Like Houses' commitment to exploring new musical territories, even if it doesn't consistently achieve its ambitious goals. When The...

"Post Apocalyptic Depression" marks a return to Mantar's raw and unpolished roots, diverging from the polished production of their previous album. The duo delivers a concise and aggressive collection of tracks, with none exceeding four minutes, emphasizing a punk-influenced approach. Recorded live at Black Bear Studios in Gainesville, Florida, the album captures an organic and primal energy. Tracks like "Halsgericht" and "Cosmic Abortion" showcase the band's ability to blend heavy riffs with anthemic choruses, creating a visceral listening experience. Overall, the album is praised for its coherent style, subtle variations, and the band's commitment to a raw, unfiltered sound. Kerrang! Review The Heavy Chronicles Review Transcended Music Blog Review Metal Blade Records Artist Page Album of The Year Similar Albums Apple Music Similar Artists Genre: Sludge Metal Country: Germany Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 36th / 163 Highlight:...

 "Ghostholding" showcases Jane Remover's evolution, transitioning from digicore roots to a refined alternative rock sound. The album is praised for its "sprawling, fearsome beauty," offering compositions that are both tighter and texturally coarser than previous works. Tracks like "Play my guitar" and "Believe" highlight introspective lyrics and adventurous vocal melodies, reflecting on themes of emptiness and expansive American landscapes. While some listeners find the album emotionally gripping, others feel it lacks cohesion. Overall, "Ghostholding" is a testament to Venturing's ability to blend genres, creating a unique auditory experience. Sources: Pitchfork Review Sputnikmusic Review Album of The Year User Review Daily Campus Review Album of The Year Similar Artists Reddit Discussion on Similar Artists Genre : Shoegaze Country : US Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 63th / 162 Highlight : Dead Forever Made me...