Album Review: The Last Dinner Party – Prelude To Ecstasy

These days, bands can ride a tidal wave of hype, long before even their debut album hits Spotify. Taste makers are always clamouring for the next big thing. So it is with The Last Dinner Party. They’ve been everywhere over the last year. Unfortunately, they don’t feel like worthy recipients of such praise. This debutContinue reading “Album Review: The Last Dinner Party – Prelude To Ecstasy”

Album Review: Nadine Shah- Filthy Underneath

I wouldn’t mess with Nadine Shah. There’s a toughness to the Geordie singer songwriter, and a raw honesty in everything she does. She’s am outspoken advocate for feminism, fiercely anti-racist, and has spoken out for mental health awareness and artists receiving fair pay. So it’s hardly surprising that this, her fifth studio album, is anContinue reading “Album Review: Nadine Shah- Filthy Underneath”

Overlooked Classics: Sparks-Propaganda

Dismissed by American rock critic Robert Christgau as being made by “twerps’ (his slagging off is usually a good sign- just ask Iggy Pop) the fourth studio album saw Sparks expanding upon their trademark baroque pop sound, forever torn between arch and urbane (Something For The Girl With Everything) and sincere (the beautiful Never TurnContinue reading “Overlooked Classics: Sparks-Propaganda”

Lost In Music: Bodega Are Brilliant

Aww. Forgive me for getting all gooey and gushy for a moment. It’s just the power of music again, casting its spell .*Sigh* I just wanna scratch their name in bubbly writing on my pencil case. New York based indie scamps Bodega just make me so happy. They’re intelligent, a bit subversive, and make neonContinue reading “Lost In Music: Bodega Are Brilliant”

New Release: Bat For Lashes- The Dream Of Delphi

Here’s some glorious news. Bat For Lashes are back after a five year hiatus with this beautiful synth lullabye, a meditation on motherhood dedicated to Natasha Khan’s daughter Delphi. Drawing upon her more minimalist work from the first two albums, Khan proves she can still surprise with her more pared- back dream pop direction. She’sContinue reading “New Release: Bat For Lashes- The Dream Of Delphi”

Binge

My eyes are circled with the natural kohl of insomnia. I pace the floors. It’s stupid o’clock and yet you won’t let go of me. I can’t go cold turkey. I’ve tried. Please set me free of your grip. Why do you do this? I’m no passive consumer, I review art for a pittance. I’mContinue reading “Binge”

Overlooked Classics: Little Simz- Grey Area

Maybe I’m cheating a little on this one, as it was the album which broke her (third time’s a charm) but I think Simz’ last two albums, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert and No Thank You have somewhat eclipsed even this 2019 gem. Grey Area broke the mould for UK hip hop in at leastContinue reading “Overlooked Classics: Little Simz- Grey Area”

Album Review: Xmal Deutschland – Early Singles (1981-1982)

It’s strange, but Xmal Deutschland seemed to suffer the same fate as other cult bands like The Stooges, Suicide and Velvet Underground – they didn’t sell many records when they began, but gradually became more influential with time. Bands like Warpaint, VR Sex, Current Affairs and Savages owe them a debt- they definitely share aContinue reading “Album Review: Xmal Deutschland – Early Singles (1981-1982)”

New Release: Drinking Boys And Girls Choir- History

A new single release from Damnably is always worth celebrating. Out today is the brand new single from Drinking Boys And Girls Choir History, and it’s absolutely wonderful. A tangy, effervescent piece of punk by the Daegu skate punk trio , it’s a headrush. They are heading out on a North American tour with OtobokeContinue reading “New Release: Drinking Boys And Girls Choir- History”

The Future’s Here Today: Loren Kramar

Oooh, that is a voice. Eccentric, velveteen and beautiful, the honeyed tones of Loren Kramar are going to be everywhere this year, if there is any justice left. With a background in gospel and musical theatre, these are perhaps not such a conventional route into contemporary music, but the perfectly crafted songs are exemplars inContinue reading “The Future’s Here Today: Loren Kramar”