NTTR - No Time to Review

Cosmograf's tenth studio album, The Orphan Epoch , marks a departure from traditional concept albums, presenting a collection of songs unified by themes of nonconformity and introspection. Robin Armstrong's songwriting delves into contemporary issues, exploring disconnection and the search for individuality in a polarized world . Musically, the album blends progressive rock with elements of neo-prog, featuring intricate arrangements and emotive melodies. Tracks like "Seraphim Reels" stand out, with Peter Jones' saxophone adding a haunting layer to the composition . Overall, The Orphan Epoch showcases Armstrong's evolution as an artist, delivering a poignant and thought-provoking listening experience. The PROG Mind: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch Prog Archives: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch The Progressive Aspect: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch Genre : Progressive Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 159th / 399 Highlight ...

Scowl's sophomore album, Are We All Angels , marks a significant evolution from their hardcore roots, embracing a more melodic and genre-blending approach. The album combines elements of hardcore punk with alternative rock and pop punk, showcasing the band's versatility and willingness to experiment. Tracks like "Special" and "Not Hell, Not Heaven" highlight this shift, featuring catchy hooks and polished production while retaining the band's raw energy. Critics have noted the album's expansive sound and the band's growth in songwriting and musicality. While some purists may find the departure from traditional hardcore unexpected, Are We All Angels stands as a bold and refreshing entry in Scowl's discography. Pitchfork: Scowl Announce New Album Are We All Angels Kerrang!: Album Review: Scowl – Are We All Angels Treble: Scowl: Are We All Angels Review Bandcamp: Are We All Angels by Scowl Genre : Hardcore Punk Country : US Fina...

These New Puritans' fifth album, Crooked Wing , is a haunting exploration of the intersection between the sacred and the industrial. The album melds ancient instruments like pipe organs and bells with modernist ambitions, creating a soundscape that is both ethereal and grounded . Tracks such as "Bells" and "A Season in Hell" showcase the band's ability to balance beauty with a haunting edge, while collaborations with artists like Caroline Polachek add depth to the album's narrative . While the first half of the album is lauded for its aural mastery, the final third is noted for becoming more introspective and opaque . Overall, Crooked Wing stands as a compelling chapter in These New Puritans' continually evolving journey. Pitchfork: These New Puritans: Crooked Wing Album Review Financial Times: These New Puritans: Crooked Wing review - songs that shimmer and pound The Quietus: These New Puritans – Crooked Wing The Guardian: These New...

Moonlight Haze's fourth studio album, Beyond , offers a vibrant blend of symphonic and power metal elements, characterized by catchy melodies and dynamic arrangements. The album showcases Chiara Tricarico's versatile vocals, ranging from emotive ballads to powerful anthems. Tracks like "Tame The Storm" and "D.N.A. (Do Not Apologize)" highlight the band's ability to fuse traditional metal riffs with modern symphonic elements. The production, helmed by Sascha Paeth, ensures a polished sound that complements the band's energetic performance. Overall, Beyond stands as a compelling addition to the symphonic metal genre, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. RockmusicRaider: Moonlight Haze – Beyond (2025) – Review Rockposer: Review: Moonlight Haze – Beyond Metal Temple: Moonlight Haze – Beyond The Metal Crypt: Review: Moonlight Haze - Beyond Female Fronted Power: Moonlight Haze – Beyond Genre : Symphonic Power Metal Coun...

MAD! showcases Sparks' enduring ability to blend eccentricity with musical innovation. The album traverses themes of modern life's absurdities, from consumer culture to personal identity, all wrapped in their signature art-pop sound. Tracks like "Do Things My Own Way" and "JanSport Backpack" exemplify their knack for combining catchy melodies with satirical lyrics. Critics have lauded the album's inventive arrangements and the Mael brothers' unwavering commitment to their unique artistic vision. With a Metacritic score of 82, MAD! is celebrated as a testament to Sparks' relevance and creativity in their sixth decade of music-making.   Wikipedia: MAD! Metacritic: MAD! by Sparks Mojo Magazine: Sparks – MAD! Reviewed Flood Magazine: Sparks, “MAD!” Paste Magazine: Sparks Blend Maximalism and Satire on MAD! Genre : Art Pop Country : US Final Verdict: 59% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking : 348th / 395 Highlight : Do Things my own...

Instant Holograms on Metal Film marks a triumphant return for Stereolab, blending their signature motorik rhythms, analog synth textures, and socio-political lyricism into a cohesive and vibrant album. Tracks like "Melodie Is a Wound" and "Immortal Hands" showcase the band's ability to evolve while maintaining their core identity. Critics have praised the album's balance of innovation and familiarity, noting its relevance in today's musical landscape. The album has been described as a "relatively safe" yet gratifying return, embodying the quintessential Stereolab essence—a mix of innovation, melodic strength, and socio-political awareness. Pitchfork: Stereolab: Instant Holograms on Metal Film Album Review The Guardian: Stereolab: Instant Holograms on Metal Film Review Bandcamp: Instant Holograms on Metal Film by Stereolab Wikipedia: Instant Holograms on Metal Film Genre : Avant-Pop Country : UK/France Final Verdict: 63% (Goo...

Room On The Porch is a warm and inviting collection that showcases the enduring chemistry between Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo'. The album blends elements of blues, folk, and soul, creating a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary. Tracks like the title song, featuring Ruby Amanfu, emphasize themes of inclusivity and community. Critics have praised the album's relaxed atmosphere and the duo's masterful musicianship, noting that it's "a masterclass in grace, groove, and deep listening."   Americana Highways: Review: Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’ “Room On the Porch” The Rockpit: TAJ MAHAL And KEB’ MO’ Release New Album ‘Room On The Porch’ Folk Alley: Album Review: TajMo, ‘Room on the Porch’ Paris Move: TajMo – Room On The Porch (ENG review) Genre : Blues Country : US Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 264th / 393 Highlight : Junkyard Dog Made me think of: Ry Cooder Buddy Guy John Hiatt #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmus...

Being Here marks a significant evolution for Turtle Skull, blending their signature heavy psych sound with indie and alt-pop sensibilities. Recorded live with minimal studio intervention, the album captures a raw and immediate energy. Tracks like "Apathy" and "Into the Sun" showcase the band's ability to merge fuzz-laden riffs with melodic hooks, while "Moon & Tide" offers a more expansive, atmospheric experience. Critics have praised the album's cohesive songwriting and the seamless integration of new member Ally Gradon's synths, which add a fresh dimension to the band's sound. Overall, Being Here is a testament to Turtle Skull's growth and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of psychedelic rock. Outlaws Of The Sun: Turtle Skull - Being Here (Album Review) Bandcamp: Being Here by Turtle Skull The Obelisk: Album Review: Turtle Skull, Being Here Ninehertz: Turtle Skull - Being Here Genre : Neo-Psychedelic Roc...

Stranger To Love is a compelling debut that showcases Senna's ability to blend emotional vulnerability with dynamic instrumentation. The album opens with "Hurricane," setting a tone of atmospheric tension and introspection. Tracks like "Blackout" and "High Note" highlight the band's range, from aggressive riffs to melodic choruses. "Drunk Dial Anthem" stands out with its restrained yet emotionally charged delivery. Critics have praised the album's balance between heaviness and melody, noting its accessibility and depth. While some reviews mention that the album doesn't drastically deviate from genre norms, it's acknowledged as a strong entry in the progressive metalcore scene.   The Soundboard Reviews: Album Review: Senna – 'Stranger To Love' Boolin Tunes: Album Review: SENNA – Stranger To Love All About The Rock: Senna - Stranger To Love - Album Review Genre : Progressive Metalcore Country : Germany Fin...

Uumen , translating to "depths" in Finnish, is a compelling debut that delves into themes of insecurity and introspection. Sung entirely in Finnish, the album weaves a tapestry of melancholic melodies and heavy riffs, drawing comparisons to bands like Katatonia and Opeth. Tracks such as "Pohjavirtauksia" showcase the band's ability to blend sludgy heaviness with melodic sensibilities, while "Karavaaniseralji" stands out with its dynamic shifts and engaging guitar work. Critics have praised the album's atmospheric depth and emotional resonance, noting its successful fusion of various metal subgenres into a cohesive whole.   Wonderbox Metal: Ceresian Valot – Uumen (Review) Progressive Music Planet: Ceresian Valot – “Uumen” Metal Temple Magazine: Ceresian Valot - Uumen New Releases Now: Ceresian Valot, Uumen Genre: Post Metal Country : Finland Final Verdict: 93% (Perfect Album) Yearly Ranking : 1st / 390 Highlight : (all added to my 20...

Escape The Chaos marks a reflective and mature return for Morcheeba, blending their signature trip-hop sound with contemporary electronic elements. The album features collaborations with artists like Oscar #Worldpeace and Amanda Zamolo, adding fresh perspectives to their music. Tracks such as "We Live and Die" showcase Skye Edwards' soulful vocals, while "Peace Of Me" introduces a modern twist to their classic style. Critics have praised the album's cohesive production and emotive depth, noting it as a testament to the band's evolution over three decades.   Rolling Stone UK: Morcheeba announce new album 'Escape The Chaos' Wikipedia: Escape the Chaos Bandcamp: Escape The Chaos by Morcheeba Genre : Trip Hop Country : UK Final Verdict : 69% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 36th / 389 Highlight : Far We Come Made me think of: Massive Attack Portishead Hooverphonic #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning ...

There's a Whole World Out There is a compelling exploration of personal growth, mental health, and the complexities of human relationships. The album showcases Arm's Length's evolution, blending their emo roots with elements of shoegaze and post-rock to create a sound that's both expansive and intimate. Tracks like "Fatal Flaw" and "You Ominously End" delve into themes of self-doubt and isolation, while "Morning Person" serves as a poignant closer that encapsulates the album's emotional depth. Critics have praised the band's lyrical prowess and musical maturation, noting that the album "lives up to its name since it covers a ton of new ground, while still remaining grounded in the topics of mental health, relationships, and the wanting for better days ahead." Chorus.fm: Arm's Length – There's A Whole World Out There Punktastic: There’s A Whole World Out There – Arm’s Length Sputnikmusic: Review: Arm...

Unmusique is a bold and eclectic debut that showcases Lucy Bedroque's unique approach to experimental hip-hop. The album blends elements of rage, digicore, and pop rap, creating a soundscape that's both chaotic and captivating. Tracks like "2010 Justin Bieber" and "Smackdown" exemplify this fusion, delivering high-energy beats with unconventional structures. Critics have noted the album's inventive nature, with one reviewer describing it as "one of the most inventive, creative, eccentric, eclectic, end electric albums of the year" . While some listeners may find the album's experimental nature challenging, Unmusique undeniably marks Lucy Bedroque as a distinctive voice in the contemporary music scene. Bandcamp: Unmusique by Lucy Bedroque Last.fm: Lucy Bedroque – Unmusique Album of The Year: Unmusique Reviews Genre : Rage Country : UK Final Verdict: 56% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 376th / 387 Highlight : Tout Natur...

Animaru is a captivating debut that showcases Mei Semones' fusion of indie pop, jazz, and bossa nova influences. Sung in both English and Japanese, the album explores themes of non-romantic love, individuality, and self-assurance. Tracks like "Dumb Feeling" and "I Can Do What I Want" highlight her intricate guitar work and melodic vocals. Critics have praised the album's lush arrangements and emotional depth, with Pitchfork noting its "measured and mannered" compositions. Clash Magazine commended its "exhilarating, eclectic offering" that displays maturity beyond a debut. Overall, Animaru positions Semones as a promising new voice in the indie music scene. Pitchfork: Mei Semones: Animaru Album Review Clash Magazine: Mei Semones – Animaru Review Bandcamp: Animaru by Mei Semones Wikipedia: Animaru Genre : Indie Pop Country : US Final Verdict: 61% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 278th / 386 Highlight : I can d...

Carpe Diem, Moonman is a kaleidoscopic journey through the eclectic mind of frontman Jack McEwan. Described by McEwan as "an entanglement of chaos" born from "excessive touring" and "weekend benders," the album traverses a myriad of genres and moods. From the frenetic energy of "March On For Pax Romana" to the introspective melodies of "Winter In Parachutes," the band showcases their ability to blend heavy psych riffs with melodic sensibilities. Critics have praised the album's clearer production, allowing intricate guitar work and dynamic vocals to shine. Overall, Carpe Diem, Moonman stands as a vibrant testament to Psychedelic Porn Crumpets' evolution and versatility in the modern psychedelic rock landscape. Levitation: Psychedelic Porn Crumpets - Carpe Diem, Moonman (Levitation Edition) Sputnikmusic: Album Review: Carpe Diem, Moonman Album of The Year: User Reviews for Carpe Diem, Moonman Reddit: r/indieh...

The Bombing of Pan Am 103 is a poignant and atmospheric soundtrack that showcases Mogwai's mastery in crafting emotive instrumental music. Composed for the BBC/Netflix miniseries depicting the tragic 1988 Lockerbie bombing, the album traverses a range of moods—from brooding tension to reflective melancholy. Tracks like "No Survivors" and "Swiss Timers" build suspense with their layered textures, while "A Little Piece of Scotland" offers a serene interlude amidst the somber themes. Critics have noted the album's ability to stand alone as a compelling listening experience, independent of the visual narrative it accompanies. The concise nature of the tracks ensures a cohesive journey that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers to Mogwai's sound.   No More Workhorse: Mogwai – The Bombing of Pan Am 103 – Album Review Louder Sound: Mogwai release soundtrack to BBC series The Bombing Of Pan Am 103 Bandcamp: Mogwai – The Bombing ...

Fallen Star represents a significant evolution in Employed to Serve's sound, blending their signature ferocity with melodic and experimental elements. Critics have praised the album's dynamic range, noting its balance between aggressive riffs and atmospheric passages. The inclusion of guest vocalists—Will Ramos (Lorna Shore), Serena Cherry (Svalbard), and Jesse Leach (Killswitch Engage)—adds depth and diversity to the tracks. Standout songs like "Treachery" and "Whose Side Are You On?" showcase the band's ability to merge intensity with accessibility. While some reviewers felt certain tracks leaned too heavily into mainstream metal tropes, the overall consensus highlights Fallen Star as a bold and successful step forward for the band. Kerrang!: Album review: Employed To Serve – Fallen Star Louder Sound: Employed To Serve have dished up their best album yet Heavy Blog Is Heavy: Employed to Serve – Fallen Star Echoes and Dust: Review: Emp...

Shards is a compelling collection of compositions originally crafted for various film and television soundtracks over the past five years, including works like Infinity Pool , The North Water , Luzifer , and La Tour . Despite their disparate origins, the tracks coalesce into a cohesive auditory journey that traverses Hecker's signature ambient landscapes. The album oscillates between haunting drones, fractured melodies, and cinematic swells, creating an atmosphere that is both unsettling and beautiful. Critics have noted the album's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, with Pitchfork describing it as "part sci-fi noir, part android tearjerker" . Shards stands as a testament to Hecker's mastery in crafting immersive soundscapes that linger long after the final note fades. Pitchfork: Tim Hecker: Shards Album Review Bandcamp: Tim Hecker – Shards AllMusic: Shards - Tim Hecker | Album Genre : Ambient Country : Canada Final Verdict: 70% (Very Good...