NTTR - No Time to Review

Pink Elephant marks Arcade Fire's return amidst a backdrop of controversy and introspection. The album delves into themes of self-reflection and redemption, with tracks like "Year of the Snake" and "Stuck in My Head" showcasing the band's signature blend of emotive lyrics and layered instrumentation. However, critics have noted a departure from the band's earlier exuberance, describing the album as subdued and, at times, lacking direction. While some songs resonate with sincerity, others have been criticized for their ambiguous messaging and lack of cohesion. Overall, Pink Elephant presents a band grappling with its identity, offering moments of brilliance interspersed with uncertainty. Pitchfork: Arcade Fire: Pink Elephant Album Review The Times: Arcade Fire: Pink Elephant review - a strangely muted, unconvincing affair Slant Magazine: Arcade Fire: Pink Elephant Album Review Metacritic: Pink Elephant by Arcade Fire Genre : Indie Rock C...

The Scholars marks Car Seat Headrest's ambitious return with a nine-track rock opera that delves into the lives of fictional university characters. Drawing inspiration from classic rock narratives, the album blends theatrical storytelling with indie rock sensibilities. Critics praise its bold concept and intricate compositions, though some note its complexity may challenge casual listeners. Standout tracks like "Gethsemane" and "Planet Desperation" showcase the band's evolution and willingness to experiment. Overall, the album offers a rich, immersive experience for those willing to engage deeply with its narrative layers. Pitchfork: Car Seat Headrest: The Scholars Album Review Stereogum: Premature Evaluation: Car Seat Headrest 'The Scholars' Mojo Magazine: Car Seat Headrest – The Scholars Reviewed Slant Magazine: Car Seat Headrest ‘The Scholars’ Review Wikipedia: The Scholars (album) Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict:...

Mortal Primetime marks Sunflower Bean's fourth studio album and their first self-produced effort. The album showcases the band's evolution, blending elements of indie rock, dream pop, and alternative rock. Critics have praised the album's cohesive sound and the band's ability to traverse various genres seamlessly. Under the Radar highlighted the album's "wildly eclectic and surprisingly cohesive" nature, noting its blend of shoegaze, folk, and Americana influences. Paste Magazine commended the band's resistance to trends, emphasizing their command over their musical direction. AllMusic described the album as "an assured album of rock and roll magic, dusted with emotive pop pathos." Overall, Mortal Primetime is seen as a confident and mature addition to Sunflower Bean's discography, reflecting their growth and resilience as a band. ​ Under the Radar: Sunflower Bean: Mortal Primetime Paste Magazine: Sunflower Bean, 'Mortal...

Panchiko's Ginkgo , released on April 4, 2025, marks a significant evolution from their lo-fi beginnings, presenting a polished and introspective soundscape. The album blends shimmering guitar textures with ambient synths, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that evokes both nostalgia and modernity. Tracks like "Honeycomb" and "Chapel of Salt" showcase the band's ability to craft emotionally resonant melodies, while collaborations, such as "Shandy in the Graveyard" featuring billy woods, add depth and variety. Critics have praised Ginkgo for its cohesive production and the band's matured songwriting, highlighting its balance between experimental elements and accessible hooks. Overall, Ginkgo stands as a testament to Panchiko's growth, offering a rich and immersive listening experience that bridges their past and present. ​ Sources: Bandcamp Daily Treble Zine FLOOD Magazine Almost Famous Zine Album of The Year Genre : Indie Rock Count...

My Morning Jacket's tenth studio album, Is , showcases a fresh and focused sound under the guidance of producer Brendan O'Brien. Tracks like "Out in the Open" and "Everyday Magic" highlight the band's ability to craft catchy melodies with layered instrumentation. The album blends elements of psychedelic rock, pop, and soul, reflecting the band's evolution while maintaining their signature style. Some listeners note that while the album is cohesive, certain tracks may lack the experimental edge of previous releases. Overall, Is offers both longtime fans and newcomers an engaging listening experience that balances familiarity with refreshing new directions. ​ Sources: Financial Times The Indy Review Reddit Glide Magazine RIFF Magazine Hot Press Echoes and Dust Pitchfork Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 56% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 228th / 235 Highlight : Out In The Open Made me think of: Wilco​ Band of Horses​ The...

Doves' Constellations for the Lonely is a testament to the band's resilience, delivering a deeply emotive and sonically rich album. Despite frontman Jimi Goodwin's partial absence due to personal challenges, the Williams brothers step forward, infusing tracks like "Renegade" and "Cold Dreaming" with their vocals, adding a fresh dynamic to the band's sound. The album masterfully blends intricate prog-inspired productions with a somber tone, reflecting themes of isolation and introspection. While Goodwin's distinctive voice adds depth to songs like "Orlando," his limited presence is felt throughout. Nevertheless, the album's sophisticated production and poetic lyricism offer listeners a profound and introspective experience. ​ Sources: The Guardian MOJO Magazine Northern Transmissions Sputnikmusic Metacritic Genre : Indie Rock Country : UK Final Verdict : 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 123th / 224 Highlight : Last Year...

Divorce's debut album, Drive to Goldenhammer , showcases a confident blend of alt-country and indie rock, marked by the dynamic interplay between vocalists Tiger Cohen-Towell and Felix Mackenzie-Barrow. Tracks like "Fever Pitch" and "Jet Show" highlight the band's ability to fuse heartfelt lyricism with energetic instrumentation. The album's production, helmed by Catherine Marks, captures the band's raw yet polished sound, offering listeners a fresh take on contemporary indie music. While some tracks may feel reminiscent of their influences, the album stands as a testament to Divorce's potential in the modern music scene. ​ Sources: The Soundboard Reviews Sputnikmusic Clash Magazine Record Weekly The Guardian Genre : Indie Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 140th / 222 Highlight : Parachuter Made me think of: Wilco​ Big Thief​ The Decemberists #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday...

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...

"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...

"This Won't Be The Last Time" has been well-received by listeners, who praise its emotive depth and genre-blending compositions. The album comprises nine tracks, each weaving intricate melodies with lush electronic textures. Highlights include "Shoots," which opens the album with a serene ambiance, and "Float," noted for its uplifting progression and ethereal vocals. Listeners have described the album as a journey through introspective soundscapes, capturing a range of emotions from melancholy to hopefulness. The track "Basin" stands out with its dynamic build-up, leading to a cathartic release that resonates deeply with fans. Overall, the album solidifies acloudyskye's position in the electronic music scene, offering a fresh and heartfelt listening experience. Sources: Spotify Album Link Reddit Discussion Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 56% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking : 151th / 161 Highlight : Innards Made me think...

"Phonetics On and On" has been lauded for its minimalist approach, drawing inspiration from bands like The Velvet Underground and Young Marble Giants. The album features taut, brittle guitar work and clear, simple lyrics that poignantly explore themes of loneliness and confusion. Tracks such as "2468," "Well I Know You're Shy," and "I Can't Stand to See You" exemplify this minimalist pop sensibility, with each song meticulously crafted to balance emotional depth and musical restraint. The collaboration with producer Cate Le Bon is evident in the album's spacious and clean sound, allowing the band's chemistry and individual talents to shine through. This intentional reduction in scale creates a purposeful emptiness, reminiscent of their minimalist influences, while still maintaining a playful and unselfconscious energy. Overall, "Phonetics On and On" represents a bold artistic maturity for Horsegirl, showcasing their abil...

 In "Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory," Van Etten collaborates closely with her band, embracing a more collective creative process. The album marks a departure from her previous solo endeavors, delving into post-punk and gothic influences with prominent 80s-inspired synths and brooding electronic rhythms. Tracks like "Afterlife" and "Idiot Box" showcase this evolution, blending introspective lyrics with atmospheric soundscapes. Critics have noted the album's hypnotic and seductive qualities, highlighting Van Etten's versatile vocal performances and the band's cohesive interplay. While some songs may not fully resonate with all listeners, the project is lauded for its bold exploration of new sonic territories, solidifying it as an early contender for Album of the Year. pitchfork.com theguardian.com the-independent.com Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict : 68% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 10th / 125 Highlight : Southern Lif...

"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...

"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...

"Souls In Motion" is a compelling debut that revitalizes the 'Madchester' sound with a contemporary twist. The album blends dreamy shoegaze atmospherics with swaggering indie-rock elements, creating a dynamic and captivating journey. Tracks like "Heroes Blood" and "Your Day" showcase the band's ability to craft anthemic, guitar-driven songs reminiscent of early Oasis and The Verve. The inclusion of more reflective tracks, such as "Leave a Light On (A Velvet Storm)," highlights their versatility and depth. Overall, "Souls In Motion" is a highly impressive debut that pays homage to its influences while establishing Pastel as a promising force in the modern indie music scene. Sources: When The Horn Blows Review Louder Than War Review Clash Magazine Review The Upcoming Review Buzz Magazine Review Genre : Indie Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 2nd / 46 Highlight : Gone Too Fast Made me think of:...

You Are the Morning , released on January 17, 2025, is the debut album from Manchester-based artist jasmine.4.t, marking her as the first UK signee to Phoebe Bridgers' Saddest Factory Records. The album was produced by the members of boygenius—Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Julien Baker—who also provided backing vocals. The record delves into themes of queer friendship, self-acceptance, and personal transformation, reflecting Jasmine's experiences during her transition. Musically, the album blends folk warmth with indie rock sensibilities, featuring tracks like "Guy Fawkes Tesco Dissociation," which ventures into slacker rock territory, and "Elephant," noted for its uplifting pop elements. Critics have praised the album for its vivid storytelling and emotional depth, with DIY Magazine describing it as "a record brimming with folksy warmth and vivid storytelling." MusicOMH highlights it as "already one of 2025’s best albums," emphasizi...

"The Human Fear" is the sixth studio album by Scottish indie rock band Franz Ferdinand, released on January 10, 2025. The album marks their first release since 2018 and introduces drummer Audrey Tait, who replaced original member Paul Thomson in 2021. Critics note that the album retains the band's signature danceable rhythms and witty lyricism, with tracks like "Audacious" and "Night or Day" evoking the energetic spirit of their early work. However, some reviews suggest that while the album is enjoyable, it doesn't significantly deviate from their established formula, leading to a sense of predictability in certain tracks. Overall, "The Human Fear" is seen as a solid addition to Franz Ferdinand's discography, appealing to long-time fans with its familiar sound while offering glimpses of the band's evolution. Sources: Pitchfork, Financial Times, The Guardian Genre : Indie Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ra...

Bad Astronaut's album Untethered , released on November 8, 2024, presents a collection of reimagined tracks from their discography, stripped down to their core elements. The album features nine tracks, including "Greg's Estate" and "Grey Suits," showcasing a minimalist approach with cello, piano, and vocals. Critics praise the album's raw simplicity and emotional depth, highlighting the haunting beauty achieved through the pared-back arrangements. This project reflects the band's evolution and willingness to explore new artistic directions, offering a fresh perspective on their established sound. Sources: New Noise Magazine Bandcamp Flood Magazine Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 61% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 685th / 1020 Highlight : The "F" Word Made me think of: No Use for a Name Alkaline Trio Eels #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #IndieRock #BadAst...

Dehd's fifth album, Poetry , showcases the Chicago trio's evolution, blending indie rock with dream pop and surf influences. Critics praise the band's ambitious melodies, bolder harmonies, and compositional complexity, noting that the album hypercharges their already electric sound. The interplay between vocalists Emily Kempf and Jason Balla is highlighted as a strength, with their contrasting styles complementing each other effectively. While some reviewers feel the album's length leads to a lack of variation, the overall reception is positive, with Poetry being described as a fun, fresh, and relatable album that doesn't take itself too seriously. Sources: Pitchfork PopMatters The Fire Note Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 754th / 1008 Highlight : Light On Made me think of: Beach Fossils DIIV Alvvays #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ind...

Fred Thomas' Window in the Rhythm , released on October 4, 2024, is a contemplative exploration of memory and nostalgia. The album comprises seven expansive tracks, averaging over eight minutes each, drawing inspiration from Joanna Newsom's Ys and featuring contributions from harpists Mary Lattimore and Shelley Burgon. Critics praise Thomas' evocative storytelling, rich with vivid imagery that captures the essence of past experiences. The production is noted for its atmospheric quality, blending elements of indie rock and post-rock to create an immersive listening experience. Overall, Window in the Rhythm is considered a career-defining work, showcasing Thomas' growth as a songwriter and his ability to craft deeply personal narratives. Pitchfork Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 277th / 983 Highlight : Season of Carelessness Made me think of: Mount Eerie The Mountain Goats Bill Callahan #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelea...