NTTR - No Time to Review

Cosmograf's tenth studio album, The Orphan Epoch , marks a departure from traditional concept albums, presenting a collection of songs unified by themes of nonconformity and introspection. Robin Armstrong's songwriting delves into contemporary issues, exploring disconnection and the search for individuality in a polarized world . Musically, the album blends progressive rock with elements of neo-prog, featuring intricate arrangements and emotive melodies. Tracks like "Seraphim Reels" stand out, with Peter Jones' saxophone adding a haunting layer to the composition . Overall, The Orphan Epoch showcases Armstrong's evolution as an artist, delivering a poignant and thought-provoking listening experience. The PROG Mind: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch Prog Archives: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch The Progressive Aspect: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch Genre : Progressive Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 159th / 399 Highlight ...

Scowl's sophomore album, Are We All Angels , marks a significant evolution from their hardcore roots, embracing a more melodic and genre-blending approach. The album combines elements of hardcore punk with alternative rock and pop punk, showcasing the band's versatility and willingness to experiment. Tracks like "Special" and "Not Hell, Not Heaven" highlight this shift, featuring catchy hooks and polished production while retaining the band's raw energy. Critics have noted the album's expansive sound and the band's growth in songwriting and musicality. While some purists may find the departure from traditional hardcore unexpected, Are We All Angels stands as a bold and refreshing entry in Scowl's discography. Pitchfork: Scowl Announce New Album Are We All Angels Kerrang!: Album Review: Scowl – Are We All Angels Treble: Scowl: Are We All Angels Review Bandcamp: Are We All Angels by Scowl Genre : Hardcore Punk Country : US Fina...

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...

Moonlight Haze's fourth studio album, Beyond , offers a vibrant blend of symphonic and power metal elements, characterized by catchy melodies and dynamic arrangements. The album showcases Chiara Tricarico's versatile vocals, ranging from emotive ballads to powerful anthems. Tracks like "Tame The Storm" and "D.N.A. (Do Not Apologize)" highlight the band's ability to fuse traditional metal riffs with modern symphonic elements. The production, helmed by Sascha Paeth, ensures a polished sound that complements the band's energetic performance. Overall, Beyond stands as a compelling addition to the symphonic metal genre, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. RockmusicRaider: Moonlight Haze – Beyond (2025) – Review Rockposer: Review: Moonlight Haze – Beyond Metal Temple: Moonlight Haze – Beyond The Metal Crypt: Review: Moonlight Haze - Beyond Female Fronted Power: Moonlight Haze – Beyond Genre : Symphonic Power Metal Coun...

MAD! showcases Sparks' enduring ability to blend eccentricity with musical innovation. The album traverses themes of modern life's absurdities, from consumer culture to personal identity, all wrapped in their signature art-pop sound. Tracks like "Do Things My Own Way" and "JanSport Backpack" exemplify their knack for combining catchy melodies with satirical lyrics. Critics have lauded the album's inventive arrangements and the Mael brothers' unwavering commitment to their unique artistic vision. With a Metacritic score of 82, MAD! is celebrated as a testament to Sparks' relevance and creativity in their sixth decade of music-making.   Wikipedia: MAD! Metacritic: MAD! by Sparks Mojo Magazine: Sparks – MAD! Reviewed Flood Magazine: Sparks, “MAD!” Paste Magazine: Sparks Blend Maximalism and Satire on MAD! Genre : Art Pop Country : US Final Verdict: 59% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking : 348th / 395 Highlight : Do Things my own...

Instant Holograms on Metal Film marks a triumphant return for Stereolab, blending their signature motorik rhythms, analog synth textures, and socio-political lyricism into a cohesive and vibrant album. Tracks like "Melodie Is a Wound" and "Immortal Hands" showcase the band's ability to evolve while maintaining their core identity. Critics have praised the album's balance of innovation and familiarity, noting its relevance in today's musical landscape. The album has been described as a "relatively safe" yet gratifying return, embodying the quintessential Stereolab essence—a mix of innovation, melodic strength, and socio-political awareness. Pitchfork: Stereolab: Instant Holograms on Metal Film Album Review The Guardian: Stereolab: Instant Holograms on Metal Film Review Bandcamp: Instant Holograms on Metal Film by Stereolab Wikipedia: Instant Holograms on Metal Film Genre : Avant-Pop Country : UK/France Final Verdict: 63% (Goo...

Room On The Porch is a warm and inviting collection that showcases the enduring chemistry between Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo'. The album blends elements of blues, folk, and soul, creating a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary. Tracks like the title song, featuring Ruby Amanfu, emphasize themes of inclusivity and community. Critics have praised the album's relaxed atmosphere and the duo's masterful musicianship, noting that it's "a masterclass in grace, groove, and deep listening."   Americana Highways: Review: Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’ “Room On the Porch” The Rockpit: TAJ MAHAL And KEB’ MO’ Release New Album ‘Room On The Porch’ Folk Alley: Album Review: TajMo, ‘Room on the Porch’ Paris Move: TajMo – Room On The Porch (ENG review) Genre : Blues Country : US Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 264th / 393 Highlight : Junkyard Dog Made me think of: Ry Cooder Buddy Guy John Hiatt #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmus...