NTTR - No Time to Review

Father John Misty's sixth studio album,  Mahashmashana , released on November 22, 2024, delves into themes of mortality and existential reflection. The title, derived from the Sanskrit word for "cremation ground," sets a contemplative tone. The album features lush orchestral arrangements, with tracks like the nine-minute title piece showcasing expansive instrumentation. Critics have noted the album's adventurous spirit, with songs such as "She Cleans Up" and "I Guess Time Just Makes Fools of Us All" blending various styles, from jittery blasts to disco-funk rhythms. While some tracks may appear whimsically disjointed, the overall composition offers a compelling and intoxicating journey, marking a bold chapter in Father John Misty's musical exploration. ( ft .com ,  pitchfork .com ,  apnews .com ) Genre : Art Pop Country : US Final Verdict: 79% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 12th / 878 Highlight : Mahashmashana (aded to my 2024 best of) Made...

I Ya Toyah's album  Drama  delivers a high level of intensity across its 10 tracks, co-produced with Walter Flakus of Stabbing Westward. The production quality is exceptional, featuring a vocal-forward mix that maintains the drive of the instrumentation. While some tracks exhibit a degree of sameness, the album retains a fresh sound with a singular focus, keeping each track engaging. The opening track, "Afterlight," sets a strong tone with its driving rhythm and passionate vocals, offering a positive perspective on mental health. "Panic Room" stands out with its dirty guitar riffs and industrial drums, building a sense of dangerous urgency. The title track, "Drama," features sparse, double-tracked vocals that juxtapose warm intimacy against jarring instrumentation. Overall,  Drama  appeals not only to industrial electronic music fans but also to a broader audience, encouraging introspection and outward reflection. I Ya Toyah's rising prominence in ...

Múr's self-titled debut album, released on November 22, 2024, presents a compelling fusion of progressive and post-metal elements, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its Icelandic members. The album showcases intricate musicianship, with tracks like "Múr" highlighting the jazz influences of guitarists Hilmir Árnason and Jón Ísak Ragnarsson through chromatic movements and tapping solos. Keyboardist and vocalist Haraldsson contributes atmospheric textures and electronic elements, notably in the cinematic "Heimsslit," which opens with spacious synth pads before building into a doom-laden soundscape. Critics have praised the band's ability to blend genres and tempos seamlessly, creating a dynamic and atmospheric experience. Distorted Sound Magazine rated the album 8/10, noting its "restless approach to mixing genres, tempos, and virtuosity" as a "breath of fresh air." Overall,  Múr  establishes the band as a promising force in the metal sc...

RedHook's sophomore album, Mutation, released on November 22, 2024, showcases the Sydney-based band's dynamic fusion of alternative metal, nu metal, and electronic rock. The 11-track album features standout singles like "Pyromaniac" and "Breaking Up With," highlighting Emmy Mack's versatile vocals and the band's genre-blending prowess. Collaborations with artists such as Vana on "HEXXX" and Lucas Woodland of Holding Absence on "Dr. Frankenstein" add depth and diversity to the record. Critics have praised Mutation for its relentless creativity and ability to traverse emotions, with Wall of Sound noting the band's "interchangeable abilities" that maintain "palpable vulnerability" while delivering an "exciting listenability." Distorted Sound Magazine commended the album for "doubling down on RedHook's oddball nature" and pushing their boundaries further. Overall, Mutation solidifies Red...

Chasing Zeniths' debut album, Epochs Changing , released on November 22, 2024, is a compelling fusion of progressive and symphonic rock elements. Spearheaded by composer and vocalist Carl Kernie, the album features collaborations with notable artists such as Charlotte Wessels, Anna Murphy, and Lauren Hart, enriching its diverse soundscape. Tracks like "Slipstream" and "Midnight Roses" showcase intricate compositions and emotive performances, reflecting Kernie's personal reflections and experiences. Critics have praised the album for its unique soundscapes and inspirational themes, marking a promising start for Chasing Zeniths in the progressive rock scene. Chasing Zeniths Sonic Perspectives Musika Genre : Progressive Rock Country : US Final Verdict : 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 405th / 874 Highlight : Ever Shall We Roam Made me think of: United Progressive Fraternity Cyan XII Alfonso #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowsp...

Michael Kiwanuka's fourth studio album, Small Changes , released on November 22, 2024, marks a subtle yet profound evolution in his musical journey. Collaborating once again with producers Danger Mouse and Inflo, Kiwanuka crafts a collection that blends retro-soul with contemporary innovation. Tracks like "Floating Parade" and "Lowdown (part i)" showcase unhurried vocals, sophisticated rhythms, and rich instrumentation, creating a soundscape that draws from past influences while establishing Kiwanuka's unique musical identity. The album exudes a calming, introspective glow, reflecting Kiwanuka's personal growth and embracing of domestic life and fatherhood. Small Changes reinforces Kiwanuka's place in the modern music scene, offering a homely, life-affirming listen. Financial Times NME Far Out Magazine Genre : Soul Country : UK Final Verdict: 67% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 148th / 873 Highlight : Floating Parade Made me think of: Leon Bridges Ben...

Patty Gurdy's Tavern , released on November 22, 2024, showcases her distinctive blend of Celtic folk and pop, centered around the hurdy-gurdy. The album features 12 tracks, including collaborations with artists like Adaya, Pernilla Kannapinn, Teufel, Marko Hietala, Magga Einarsdóttir, and Christopher Bowes. Songs such as "Find Me Some Pretty Girls" and "Brighter Days Come" highlight Gurdy's ability to merge traditional melodies with contemporary arrangements. Critics have praised the album for its innovative approach to folk music, noting its potential to bring hurdy-gurdy folk-pop into the mainstream. Tavern is available for streaming on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify, and physical copies can be purchased through her official website and various retailers. Patty Gurdy   Apple Music   Spotify Genre : Celtic Folk Country : Germany Final Verdict: 74% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 25th / 872 Highlight : (all added to my 2024 best of) Find Me Some ...