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acloudyskye - This Won't Be The Last Time (2025)

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"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...

John Glacier - Like A Ribbon (2025)

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"Like a Ribbon" has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative fusion of genres and Glacier's distinctive vocal delivery. Critics highlight her unyielding deadpan style, which serves as a cohesive thread throughout the album's diverse production. Thematically, the album juxtaposes the excitement of urban life with the tranquility of nature, reflecting Glacier's tendency to intertwine natural imagery with contemporary narratives. The production features contributions from artists such as Flume, Evilgiane, and Kwes Darko, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that complement Glacier's vocal presence. Tracks like "Found" and "Money Shows" exemplify her ability to craft poignant imagery, while collaborations with Sampha on "Ocean Steppin’" and Eartheater on "Money Shows" add depth and texture to the project. Despite its concise runtime of approximately 30 minutes, "Like a Ribbon" is densely packed with innovative id...

Xhosa Cole - On A Modern Genius, Vol.1 (2025)

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"On a Modern Genius (Vol. 1)" has garnered critical acclaim for its fresh and dynamic approach to Monk's repertoire. Reviewers highlight Cole's ability to capture Monk's spirit while infusing the pieces with his own creative flair. The inclusion of tap dancer Liberty Styles adds a unique rhythmic dimension, reminiscent of jazz's historical roots. Tracks such as "Trinkle, Tinkle" and "Rhythm-a-ning" showcase the ensemble's cohesive interplay and Cole's virtuosic saxophone performances. Heidi Vogel's rendition of Duke Ellington's "Come Sunday" provides a soulful contrast, enriching the album's texture. Overall, the project is praised for its inventive arrangements, exceptional musicianship, and respectful yet contemporary homage to Monk's legacy. The Guardian Review Genre : Jazz Country : UK Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 73th / 159 Highlight : Bright Mississippi Made me think of: Shabaka H...

The Lumineers - Automatic (2025)

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"Automatic" has been met with generally positive reviews, highlighting The Lumineers' introspective songwriting and stripped-down instrumentation. Critics note a maturity in the band's sound, with themes exploring personal growth, modern life's complexities, and the passage of time. The album opens with "Same Old Song," setting a contemplative tone that resonates throughout the record. Tracks like "Plasticine" critique the superficiality of the entertainment industry, while "Better Day" addresses societal changes, including technology's impact on daily life. The song "Asshole" stands out for its candid lyrics and self-reflection, showcasing the band's willingness to delve into uncomfortable emotions. The closing track, "So Long," offers a richly atmospheric experience, drawing comparisons to Bob Dylan's work. Overall, "Automatic" reflects The Lumineers' growth, balancing their signature fo...

The Delines - Mr. Luck & Ms. Doom (2025)

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"Mr. Luck & Ms. Doom" has been lauded for its vivid storytelling and evocative musical arrangements. Critics highlight the album's exploration of complex characters and narratives set against a backdrop of soulful melodies. The title track introduces listeners to a failed criminal and a depressed house cleaner who find solace in each other's company, showcasing the band's talent for crafting intimate, character-driven tales. Tracks like "Her Ponyboy" depict nomadic, tragic romances, with sparse instrumentation complementing Amy Boone's haunting vocals. "Left Hook Like Frazier" stands out as an uptempo number, juxtaposing lively rhythms with themes of addiction and abuse. The song "Sitting on the Curb" delves into betrayal and revenge, building emotional intensity through its blues-infused arrangement. The album's production, led by John Morgan Askew, enriches the band's country-soul sound with brass and string arrangem...

Marmen Quartet - Ligeti & Bartók: String Quartets (2025)

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The Marmen Quartet's interpretation of Ligeti and Bartók's string quartets has been met with critical acclaim. Reviewers have praised the ensemble's intensity, energy, and technical proficiency in navigating these complex works. Jessica Duchen of Classical Music commended their "intensity, energy and expert view" in handling the challenging compositions. Norman Lebrecht highlighted the quartet's ability to capture Ligeti's "waspish wit, nasty moments and episodes of transcendental calm and delicacy," noting their "lusty and lyrical" performance. Additionally, Gramophone magazine selected this album as an Editor's Choice, emphasizing the quartet's cohesive vision and vibrant virtuosity. The ensemble's dedication to authenticity is evident in their meticulous approach to Ligeti's Second Quartet, described as "probably the hardest thing we've ever had to learn, technically," due to its precise notation and...

The Altons - Heartache in Room 14 (2025)

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"Heartache in Room 14" has been praised for its authentic revival of classic soul sounds infused with modern sensibilities. Critics highlight the harmonious interplay between vocalists Adriana Flores and Bryan Ponce, drawing comparisons to legendary duets like Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. The album features a mix of mid-tempo tracks and ballads, with songs like "Float" showcasing a dreamy arrangement reminiscent of The Delfonics, and "Del Cielo Te Cuido" embracing the band's Latin roots through a romantic bolero style. The production, led by Gabriel "Bosco Mann" Roth, emphasizes a warm, vintage sound that complements the emotional depth of the performances. Overall, the album is noted for its cohesive blend of genres, heartfelt lyrics, and the seamless vocal chemistry between Flores and Ponce, positioning The Altons as a significant force in the contemporary soul scene. No Depression FLOOD Genre : R&B Country : US Final Verdict: 60% ...