NTTR - No Time to Review

Black Country, New Road's third studio album, Forever Howlong , marks a significant evolution in the band's sound and lineup. Following the departure of lead vocalist Isaac Wood in 2022, the group restructured with vocal duties now shared among Tyler Hyde, Georgia Ellery, and May Kershaw. This shift introduces a warmer, more communal atmosphere, with the album embracing a folk-inspired, baroque-inflected style that diverges from their earlier post-punk roots. Tracks like "Besties" and "For the Cold Country" showcase intricate storytelling and rich instrumentation, blending medieval motifs with contemporary themes. While the album's ambitious direction has been praised for its creativity and depth, some critics note moments of meandering and eccentricity that may challenge listeners. Overall, Forever Howlong reflects the band's resilience and willingness to explore new artistic territories, solidifying their position as one of the most innovativ...

"Shards" showcases Dim Gray's ability to seamlessly blend genres, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both intimate and expansive. The album transitions effortlessly between delicate, folk-inspired melodies and grandiose, cinematic arrangements. Tracks like "Defiance" and "Myopia" highlight the band's dynamic range, with intricate vocal harmonies and lush instrumentation. Critics have praised the album for its cohesive storytelling and emotional depth, noting that it flows like a novel, with each track serving as a chapter contributing to overarching themes of loss, change, and resilience. The production quality is impeccable, capturing each instrument and vocal nuance with stunning clarity. Overall, "Shards" is a compelling and immersive listening experience that solidifies Dim Gray's position in the progressive rock and chamber pop genres.   Sources: The Prog Report Genre : Progressive Pop Country : Norway Final Verdict: ...

"Infinity" is a career-defining album that showcases Terry Draper's brilliance and hard work. The album features a mix of progressive rock and pop elements, with contributions from talented musicians including former Klaatu colleague Dee Long, Keith Hampshire, Jaimie Vernon, Tommy Solo, Fernando Perdomo, and Brenda Webb. Notably, some tracks have historical significance; for instance, "The Best Blues" was written in 1976, and "The Sea" dates back to 1973. Draper's vocals are emotive and resonate with a sense of history, particularly evident in the vocal arrangement of "Ubuntu." Overall, "Infinity" is an album of depth and sweeping melodies, offering listeners a bottomless treasure trove to discover and enjoy. Sources: The Spill Magazine Genre : Progressive Pop Country : Canada Final Verdict: 57% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 41th / 45 Highlight : Infinity Made me think of: Electric Light Orchestra The Moody Blues Supertram...

Wheels Within Wheels by Meer is a sophisticated exploration of progressive pop with symphonic rock elements. The album balances intricate arrangements with emotional depth, featuring lush strings, powerful vocal harmonies, and a blend of acoustic and electric instruments. Tracks like "Golden Circle" showcase the band's ability to craft catchy, yet complex compositions, while songs like "Something In The Water" and "This Is The End" delve into darker, existential themes. The production is expansive, allowing each of the eight members to shine, making it a deeply immersive and rewarding listen for fans of the genre​ ( Metal Epidemic   Proghurst   T P A ) . Genre : Progressive Pop Country : Norway Final Verdict : 76% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 10th / 618 Highlight : Golden Circle (added to my 2024 best of) Made me think of: Leprous Paatos Haunt the Woods #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musi...