NTTR - No Time to Review

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...

Tunde Adebimpe's Thee Black Boltz , released on April 18, 2025, marks his debut solo venture, diverging from his work with TV on the Radio. The album is a genre-defying exploration, blending elements of synth-punk, reggae, and experimental indie, reflecting on themes of grief and societal unrest. Tracks like "Drop" and "Magnetic" showcase Adebimpe's innovative use of beatboxing and looping, while "ILY" offers a poignant tribute to his late sister. Critics have lauded the album's emotional depth and sonic experimentation, noting its balance between vulnerability and resilience. Overall, Thee Black Boltz stands as a compelling and introspective addition to Adebimpe's discography. ​ Sources: The Guardian Pitchfork Paste Magazine The Line of Best Fit Bandcamp Genre : Art Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 243th / 306 Highlight : Magnetic Made me think of: Peter Gabriel David Byrne Saul Williams #newalb...

Destroyer's 14th studio album, Dan's Boogie , released on March 28, 2025, showcases Dan Bejar's continued evolution as a songwriter, blending lush instrumentation with introspective lyricism. The album features full string arrangements and live jazz piano glissandos, creating a rich, controlled production that complements Bejar's distinctive vocals. Tracks like "The Same Thing as Nothing at All" and "Bologna," featuring Simone Schmidt, highlight the album's blend of haunting and confrontational elements. The eight-minute centerpiece, "Cataract Time," delves into themes of aging and self-reflection, culminating in a tender, intimate exploration of the world's brokenness. Critics have praised Dan's Boogie for its contemplative nature and Bejar's ability to merge familiar themes with newfound wisdom and humor. ​ Sources: Pitchfork The Guardian Treble Paste Magazine Genre : Art Rock Country : Canada Final Verdict: 64%...

Envy of None's sophomore album, Stygian Wavz , released on March 14, 2025, showcases the band's evolution in blending alternative and progressive rock with electronic elements. The album opens with "Not Dead Yet," featuring Alex Lifeson's signature gritty guitar work and Maiah Wynne's ethereal vocals, setting a compelling tone. Tracks like "The Story" and "Under The Stars" highlight the band's ability to craft immersive soundscapes, with Lifeson's understated yet impactful guitar solos complementing the atmospheric arrangements. Critics have praised the album's polished production and the seamless integration of diverse musical influences, noting its rewarding depth upon repeated listens. Overall, Stygian Wavz solidifies Envy of None's identity, moving beyond side-project status to establish a distinct and compelling presence in the contemporary music scene. ​ Sources: The Sleeping Shaman Louder Sound At The Barrier...

Steven Wilson's The Overview is an ambitious exploration of space themes, comprising two expansive suites: "Objects Outlive Us" and "The Overview." Drawing inspiration from the "overview effect" experienced by astronauts, the album melds lush guitars, ambient electronics, and intricate compositions. Echoes of Pink Floyd and King Crimson are evident, yet Wilson crafts a distinctive soundscape that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. While some listeners may find the lengthy compositions challenging, the album's cohesive flow and thematic depth offer a rewarding experience for progressive rock aficionados Sources: Financial Times The Irish Times Louder Sound The Prog Report MOJO Magazine Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 71% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 12th / 211 Highlight : The Overview: No Ghost on the Moor/Heat Death of the Universe Made me think of: Pink Floyd Peter Gabriel Porcupine Tree #newalbum #newalbum2024 #al...

"Cowards" marks a significant evolution in Squid's sound, expanding beyond their earlier post-punk influences into more experimental territories. The album delves into themes of cowardice, apathy, greed, and bloodlust, offering a dark examination of humanity's ugliest traits. Lead singer Ollie Judge describes the record as resembling a "book of dark fairytales," with songs that frequently metamorphose from one musical style to another. Tracks like "Blood on the Boulders" and "Showtime!" tackle subjects such as voyeuristic fascinations with true crime and the manipulations of fame, creating an unsettling yet compelling atmosphere. The album's expansive sound incorporates elements of folk, psychedelia, jazz, and electronics, resulting in a chaotic yet focused and potent brew. Critics have praised "Cowards" as Squid's most wide-ranging and introspective work to date, cementing their position as influential voices in contemp...

This Is The Glasshouse's album 867 , released on November 10, 2024, is a testament to the project's intricate artistry and emotional depth. Primarily the work of a single artist, the album features complex, layered melodies and passionate, intimate lyrics that reflect a deep connection to the artist's Canadian roots. Tracks like "Streetlight by Streetlight" and "Before Machinery" showcase the project's ability to blend art rock with indie and post-rock elements, creating a sound that is both fresh and cohesive. Critics have noted the album's impressive instrumentation, including the use of saxophone, which adds a dynamic layer to the compositions. The production is praised for its clarity and meticulous attention to detail, allowing the emotional weight of the music to resonate fully with listeners. Sources: Album of The Year Bandcamp Sputnikmusic Genre : Art Rock Country : Canada Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 425th / 1022 Hi...

Ensoulment marks The The's return after nearly 25 years, delivering a 12-track album that delves into themes of love, politics, and existentialism. Matt Johnson's distinctive vocals and incisive lyrics are complemented by the band's cohesive instrumentation, blending elements of alternative and art rock. Critics have highlighted tracks like "Cognitive Dissident" and "Some Days I Drink My Coffee By The Grave Of William Blake" for their poignant commentary and melodic depth. The album has been praised for its timely relevance and the band's ability to evolve while retaining their signature sound. Overall, Ensoulment stands as a testament to The The's enduring artistry and their capacity to resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners. PopMatters Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 72% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 33th / 830 Highlight : Zen & the Art of Dating Made me think of: Leonard Cohen David Sylvian Echo & the Bu...

Cutouts , The Smile's third album, continues the band’s exploration of experimental rock and electronic textures. Emerging from the same sessions as Wall of Eyes , this album pushes further into jazz-influenced improvisation and angular rhythms. Tracks like "Foreign Spies" and "The Slip" layer haunting synths and percussive beats with Thom Yorke’s ethereal vocals, recalling the intricate, fragmented style of Radiohead's Kid A . The band's interplay between electronic and acoustic elements creates a complex, atmospheric soundscape, both haunting and emotionally rich​ ( Ultimate Classic Rock ) ​ ( bernardzuel ) . Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 369th / 728 Highlight : Eyes & Mouth Made me think of: Radiohead (duh) Thom Yorke (duh) Atoms for Peace #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #TheSmile #UK #LP #Album #release  

Twenty Pills Without Water marks a new era for Bent Knee, who return as a quartet after losing two founding members. The album blends art rock, indie, and progressive elements into a cohesive and emotionally resonant experience. With Courtney Swain's haunting vocals at the forefront and Chris Baum's enhanced violin presence, the band delivers a more grounded and mature sound. The album explores themes of anxiety, nostalgia, and change, wrapped in a mix of lush strings, intricate rhythms, and introspective lyrics. Fans of their earlier work will appreciate the shift towards a more melodic and less chaotic approach, making this album a standout in their discography​ ( The PROG Mind , Progarchives , DMME ) . Genre : Art Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 67% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 96th / 632 Highlight : DLWTSB Made me think of: The Dear Hunter Radiohead The Mars Volta #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ar...

Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 255th / 515 Highlight : Silent Thunder (reprise) Made me think of: David Sylvian Tim Bowness Steve Wilson #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #Grice #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 310th / 446 Highlight : MOTY Made me think of: Father John Misty Sufjan Stevens Jeff Buckley #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #YoungJesus #US #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 71% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 12th / 292 Highlight : Icy Windy Sky (added to my 2024 best of) Made me think of: Gentle Giant The Polyphonic Spree Caravan #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #Ugly #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 54% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 280th / 287 Highlight : Cloudy Made me think of: Black Country New Road English Teacher Grizzly Bear #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #BlueBendy #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 56% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 201th / 219 Highlight : F rom the River Made me think of: David Bowie David Sylvian Peter Gabriel #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #Elbow #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 69% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 6th / 54 Highlight : I Quit Made me think of: Radiohead Portishead Sigur Rós #newalbum #newalbum2023 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #TheSmile #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : US Final Verdict : 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 13th / 38 Highlight : motions Made me think of: Car Seat Headrest American Football Radiohead #newalbum #newalbum2023 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #GlassBeach #US #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : Japan Final Verdict: 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 317th / 1031 Highlight : 翔け夜の匂い草 Made me think of: Black Midi Cornelius Tricot #newalbum #newalbum2023 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #betcover!! #Japan #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 72% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 54th / 983 Highlight : Road to Joy (Bright-Side Mix) Made me think of: Brian Eno Fish Phil Collins #newalbum #newalbum2023 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #PeterGabriel #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Art Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 321th / 971 Highlight : Drowning Made me think of: Elastica Miss Grit Suede #newalbum #newalbum2023 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ArtRock #TheWaeve #UK #LP #Album #release