andconham's Albums
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NEVER ENOUGH
Turnstile
Found myself a little disappointed with this one. While not bad, I found most of the songs just okay. Though I did enjoy the second listen more than the first so maybe this album will be a grower. 19.08.2026 Update: A year on, this album has grown on me a bit. Still not my favourite Turnstile album, but i appreciate the direction a bit more. I hope they nail it next time around, if they choose to continue this direction, because I do think a pop-hardcore album could be great of fully realized. Favorite tracks: - NEVER ENOUGH - SOLE - LOOK OUT FOR ME - BIRDS - SLOWDIVE
Doolittle
Pixies
Unique, influential, ahead of its time. Pixies shed some of the quirk from Surfer Rosa, and put out a more direct record here. This album holds some of their biggest tracks, with the first half almost playing like a greatest hits album. Favourite Tracks: - Debaser - Wave of Mutilation - Here Comes Your Man - Monkey Gone to Heaven - Hey
In A Space Outta Dub
Nightmares On Wax, Adrian Sherwood
A Dub album, that works well as a backdrop while working. It's chill, and vibey so it flows along well but there is a lack of standout moments or songs for me. Favourite Tracks: - You Bliss - Positive Touch - On the Seven Seas Dub
Mirror Ball
Neil Young
It's not my favourite NY album, as i much prefer his earlier output. Was surprised to see this was a collaboration with Eddie Vedder, as I don't think that was really evident in the music. It's good, but lacks a little something to bring me back. Favourite Tracks: - I'm the Ocean - Downtown - Throw Your Hatred Down
Bleed
Bleed
Some nice alt metal here. Saw a recommendation on an insta reel and decided to check it out, glad I did because this is great! Alt metal in the vein of Deftones which is always welcome for me. Will have to dig into some of their earlier stuff. 18.08.2026 - Score upgraded to an 8. Growing fan of these guys and really looking forward to what they do next. Favourite Tracks: - Climbing Down - Through The Cylinder - Killing Time - Cynical - Enjoy Your Stay - Take It Out
Pretty Low
Expire
Perfect Hardcore for the gym. It's all a little samey, but it also all kicks ass. One of the first Hatdcore bands I got into back when, and it still holds up. Favourite Tracks: - Pretty Low - Fiction - Forgetting - If it Were Up to Me
Massive Champion
Getdown Services
I get that the mundanity is part of the point, but I don't find it hugely engaging in this LP format. From what I've seen, it does come across better live though. This may be a band that grows on me over time, but it's just okay for now. Favourite Tracks: - I Can't Die Like That - The Radiator - Stop Living
Enigma POV
Channel Tres
Quite disappointed with this one. Loved Channel's EP's earlier in his career, but his two full length albums have not hit the same. The cool House/Hip Hop combo has given way to more EDM inspired production and tacky as hell lyrics. There's glimpses of good stuff throughout but it's surrounded by bloat. Favourite Tracks: - Pop Pop - Rhythm King
Lost Weekend
Phoebe Bridgers
Hard to give a numerical rating to an album like this. Obviously deeply personal lyrics, primarily dealing with grief, and the loss of her father. The usual Bridgers melancholy is here, with sprinkles of optimism throughout out. It makes for an engaging listen, even if I'm not huge on all of the components individually. It's a great album, not something I see myself often returning to though. Favourite Tracks: - Kill Me - The Governers Waltz - Lost Weekend - Haunted - Still Standing - I Can't Wait - As Above
Big Kiss Goodnight
Trapped Under Ice
This is great stuff. Energetic Hardcore with groovy as hell riffs. All the songs are quite brief and pummel you one after the other. The breakdowns are sweet, and the vocals top it all off well. Favourite Tracks: - Born to Die - Pleased to Meet You - Victimized - Time Waits - True Love - Disconnect - Reality Unfolds
Toxicity
System Of A Down
Crazy that 25 years later, System are still a one of a kind band. Toxicity would be the peak of their fairly short discography, before they traded blunt-yet-creative songwriting for kooky novelty songs. Mileage may vary with the vocals, but i can't imagine it any other way. Favourite Tracks: - Prison Song - Needles - Deer Dance - Chop Suey - Shimmy - Toxicity - Aerials
Diamond Life
Sade
This is smooth as hell, and such a nice listen. This holds up very well in 2026, with the production still sounding great. The jazz/soul/rnb inspired instrumentals paired with the lush vocals make this a classic in the soul genre. Favourite Tracks: - Smooth Operator - Hang On to Your Love - When Am I Going to Make a Living - Cherry Pie - Sally - Why Can't We Live Together
Those Days Are Gone
Free Throw
Great Emo revival here. Contains the staples of the Post Hardcore genre, but does it all very well considering this is a debut album. Just rough enough around the edges with great harsh vocal throughout. Some of the guitarwrk throughout is pretty tasty too. Favourite Tracks: - Two Beers In - Pallet Town - Kim Tastie - Key Ken, Someone Methodically Mushed the Donuts
Holy Ghost
Modern Baseball
A more mature effort that would end up being there last. The short songs are oddly structured, which doesn't always make for a seamless listen but the songwriting is good. It's a shame we never got more from these guys. Favourite Tracks: - Note to Self - Everyday - Just Another Face
We're Not Here to Be Loved
Fleshwater
Great alt-metal debut here. Wasn't aware this was a vein.fm spinoff until afterwards, explains the quality though. The band shows their influences quite clearly, but also put their own stamp on things to prevent feeling like a retread. Great stuff. Favourite Tracks: - Baldpate driver - Closet - Linda Claire - Enjoy - Foreign
Everybody is Going to Heaven (10 Year Anniversary Edition)
Citizen
A great sophomore release from Citizen, combining Alt Rock and Post Hardcore well. Some great arrangements through out and the vocal performances are great, striking a good balance between cleans and harsher vocals. Favourite Tracks: - Cement - Numb Yourself - Heaviside - My Favourite Colour - Stain - Ten
Floral Green
Title Fight
It took a few listens for me to 'get it', but I got there. I still think it's missing some defining character, but this is some nice shoegaze inspired post-hardore here. There is a fine line production-wise when rock albums try their hand at shoegaze, this album achieves the sound without fully washing out though which is great! Favourite Tracks: - Numb, But I Still Feel It - Head in the Ceiling Fan - Make You Cry - Calloused - In Between
Led Zeppelin III (Remaster)
Led Zeppelin
I prefer their first two albums, but this was Zeppelin experimenting a little which I appreciate. Less blues rock, more folk rock. They would regain their form on the following album, but his is a nice little deviation on the way there. Favourite Tracks: - Immigrant Song - Friends - Since I've Been Loving You - Tangerine - That's the Way
Nevermind
Nirvana
Sometimes I need a reminder why certain albums are considered classics. This is a near flawless album, full of fuzzy guitars, one of a kind vocals, catchy hooks and interesting lyrics. Classic/10. Favourite Tracks: - All of them
Music, Fashion, Film
Charli xcx
It's no brat, but there's plenty to like here. The ironic it-girl attitude still works, and the album breezes by. Could've done with another heavy hitter or two though. Favourite Tracks: - Rock Music - SS26 - Camera - Persona
Mezmerize
System Of A Down
Much like Hypnotize, it's all unique and interesting, but not always good. Instrumentally this album is great, but some of the lyrics and vocal performances are just too wacky. The highs justify the lows though, and there are some bangers on here. Favourite Tracks: - BYOB - Revenge - This Cocaine Makes Me Feel Like I'm On This Song - Question
Come And See
Gurriers
Heard one song in a playlist and decided to give this album a go, not realizing until after that it was their debut! Pretty solid stuff with a few standout tracks, though some songs in between were a bit samey. I enjoy the punky, noise rock sound though and I'll definitely be looking out for future releases! 09.08.2026 Re-review: - Having listened to this a handful of times since my initial review, I can safely bump this score up a bit. Great energy on these tracks and judging from videos they sound even better live. New album next month should be a good one. Fav tracks: - Nausea - Des Goblin - Close Call - Sign of the Times* - Approachable
petal
Ariana Grande
A more vocally restrained Ariana has put together a smooth, sonically pleasing album here. I think it is lacking some stronger, more memorable vocal performances that previous albums had though. I am glad to see that even with the dogpiling she is receiving at the moment, she can still put out quality music like this. Favourite Tracks: - hate that i made you love me - petal - like i do
Heroine
Thornhill
Some pretty good alt metal here. Influences of Shoegaze, Modern Metalcore, and Deftones throughout this album. I think the front half of the album is the stronger half, with the momentum faltering a touch towards the end. Still great stuff though. Favourite Tracks: - Leather Wings - Blue Velvet - Arkangel - Raw
Take Control
SOFT PLAY
This album peaks early with the first handful of tracks, but struggles to maintain that throughout the album. It's all a bit of cheeky fun with lots of character, just not their best output. Favourite Tracks: - Spit It Out - Hypnotized - Consume or Be Consumed - Take Control
Reality Awaits
The Strokes
Given the discourse, I expected much worse. No it's not their best album, and it's a bold choice after a 6 year break between albums. For all the talk about auto tune, there's only maybe 2 tracks where I thought it was detrimental, the opener in particular. Outside of that the usual Strokes charm is here, and I'm glad they aren't just contempt to push out another album for the sake of it. Favourite Tracks: - Dine n Dash - Lonely in the Future - Going to Babble On - Tyrants of the Mellow Moon
In Rainbows
Radiohead
This is a beautiful listen. The usual Radiohead melancholy with electronic inspiration. Album flows well, instrumentally beautiful, great vocals and just great tracks all over this. Favorite Tracks: - 15 Step - Bodysnatchers - Nude - Weird Fishes - All I Need - House Of Cards - Jigsaw Falling Into Place - Videotape
Kid A
Radiohead
It's a bit different from other Radiohead releases. Being more of a soundscape long form experience, rather than having any defined singles. It's a great listen, I just prefer other albums from these guys. Favourite Tracks: - Everything in its Right Place - How to Dissapear Completely - Optimistic - Idioteque
swallowtail
she's green
A pretty, transporting dream pop / shoegaze album here. On first listen I didn't find much that grabbed me but I just let it loop and I was fully with the vibe after a while. The production is nice, and I love the fuzzier guitars that come towards the back end of the album. Best enjoyed as a full album experience. Favourite Tracks: - mettle - close your eyes
WIRED
Basement
This feels a little toothless compared to their earlier releases. Listened multiple times hoping something would grab me but it never really did. Not bad by any means, but will likely be forgotten pretty soon. Favourite Tracks: - Time Waster - Wired
My Dear Melancholy,
The Weeknd
He didn't reinvent the wheel here, but the callback to his earlier style was welcome after a string of pop hits. The production is great throughout also, particularly the Gesafelstein tracks. Favourite Tracks: - Call Out My Name - Wasted Times - I Was Never There - Hurt You
you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love
Olivia Rodrigo
Was drawn to this album by the Robert Smith Feature, paired with a track named 'The Cure'. Unsurprisingly these were my two favourite songs on here. First half had me thinking I'm not really the target demographic for this music, but I quite enjoyed the second half. Favourite Tracks: - honeybee - the cure - what's wrong with me - less - cigarette smoke
dont smile at me
Billie Eilish
Billie not at the height of her powers here, but this was a good sign of things to come. Catchy, cynical bedroom pop done right. She would obviously go on to expand and improve on this formula, but this was a good starting point. Favourite Tracks: - Copycat - my boy - party favor - bellyache - ocean eyes
The Velvet Underground & Nico 45th Anniversary
The Velvet Underground, Nico
An intriguing album that didn't always click with me. It's unique, even to this day and the influence on what came after is undeniable. My enjoyment of it only goes so far though. Favourite Tracks: - Sunday Morning - I'm Waiting for the Man - Venus in Furs - Heroin
You'd Prefer An Astronaut
Hum
It doesn't take long to see the similarities to Deftones in the first track, as the album continues it starts to sound like much of the alt rock of the 90s. It's not bad, but lacks the character of their contemporaries. Also, the vocals are quite monotone, which works for some Tracks but not for others. Favourite Tracks: - Stars - Why I Like The Robins
(What's The Story) Morning Glory?
Oasis
Nostalgia evoking brit-pop, that has aged quite well. The singles obviously stand out but the lesser known tracks all hold their own as well, with great melodies and catchy lyrics. All capped off by maybe their best song in Champagne Supernova. Favourite Tracks: - Roll With It - Wonderwall - Don't Look Back in Anger - Some Might Say - Morning Glory - Champagne Supernova
Doom
Job For A Cowboy
This EP got a lot of play in my teen years, and I think was my introduction to Deathcore. It pretty barebones compared to what would come after, and it definitely a product of its time. The pug squeals get a bit ridiculous, but largely the vocals are pretty good. The instrumentals have a good raw feel to them, and the breakdowns are sweet. Favourite Tracks: - Entombment of a Machine - Knee Deep - The Rising Tide
I Hope I Die Here
No Cure
A brick wall of an album that punches through you for it's brief 20 minute runtime. The vocals are brutal, as are the breakdowns. There' ls no breathing room for better or for worse, I'll have to check out their latest release to see how this style plays out for a full length album. Favourite Tracks: - I Don't Need Your Help - The Basement Beneath the Fountain - Kill A Frat Guy
Nightmare
Avenged Sevenfold
An album conceived out of tragedy, with the recent loss of The Rev influencing many moments on this album. Stylistically this album can be a bit all over the place, and the lyrics can be a bit silly as usual. But intrumentally this is great, and the album is full of great melodies. Favourite Tracks: - Nightmare - Welcome to the Family - Buried Alive - So Far Away - God Hates Us
Eagles (2013 Remaster)
Eagles
Some breezy yacht rock, that breezes by and makes you feel warm. I'm a sucker for the harmonies on here, not every track feels necessary though. Favourite Tracks: - Take It Easy - Witchy Woman - Nightingale - The the Devil - Peaceful Easy Feeling
Wrath
Bleached Cross
These guys aren't quite there yet for me. I appreciate that someone is making this style of music in 2026, and I do enjoy this album. It's just lacking a little something to put it over for me. Hopefully their future releases click a little better. Favourite Tracks: - Crucible - Tomb - Wrath
DECEMBERUNDERGROUND
AFI
A fun alt rock/emo combination that adds an arena rock styling to AFI's already established post-hardcore sound. The lyrics are a bit sappy at times but it's all catchy and has aged quite well I think. Favourite Tracks: - Kill Caustic - Miss Murder - Love Like Winter - Affliction
Goo
Sonic Youth
I expected to enjoy this more than I did, I think maybe a few more listens will solidify it a bit more for me though. It's pretty noisy and messy sound (intentionally so), and some of the more ambient sections drone on a little too long. But there is a lot to like here as well, with a punky attitude applied to a more indie sound. Favourite Tracks: - Dirty Boots - Kool Thing - Disappearer - Titanium Expose
They Live - Expanded Original Motion Picture Soundtrack 20th Anniversary Edition
John Carpenter, Alan Howarth
I mean, I love that one riff that plays throughout nearly the whole album. But there's not really enough variety here to bring me back. Great movie though.
Hypnotize
System Of A Down
From memory, this is my least favourite SOAD album. The vocals are at times grating, and the songwriting a times is bad. But it's so unique it still manages to hold your attention, and there are some good peaks on here. Favourite Tracks: - Attack - Hypnotize - Tentative - Holy Mountains - Soldier Side
King for a Day, Fool for a Lifetime
Faith No More
A scattershot album, that runs through different genres and ideas. Most of it works and Pattons at times unhinged vocals are good for a laugh, though when it's time to be serious they are great. Doesn't flow from track-to-track super well though, and could've maybe left a song or two off. Favourite Tracks: - Ricochet - Evidence - The Gentle Art of Making Enemies - Cuckoo For Caca - Digging the Grave - King for a Day
Still Suffer
Terror
Some good meat-and-potatoes Hardcore here, which is all you need sometimes. Groovy rhythms and heavy riffs get the blood pumping, and show Terror still has the juice over two decades into their career. Favourite Tracks: - Still Suffer - Promised Only Lies - Destruction of My Soul - Fear the Panic
Oh yeah?
Steve Lacy
Some decent moments early on give way to some of the tackiest lyrics I've heard in a while. Interesting he promoted a focus on lyrics for this album, because much of it sounds like it was written by a teenager. Instrumentally it's fine, but as a whole it's not for me. Favourite Tracks: - is it cool? - the feeling
In Waves
Jamie xx
I'm not super in tune with electronic music these days, but this is the best album I can recall hearing in a while. Creative combinations of house a garage, with interesting sampling throughout. The sound design is pretty great all around on this. Favourite Tracks: - Treat Each Other Right - Waited All Night - Baddy on the Floor - Dafodil - Life - The Feeling I Get From You - Breather
Mudhoney
Mudhoney
Mudhoneys 'official' debut, and its a pretty good punk-influenced grunge effort. Comparisons to Nirvana are unavoidable, but I think they show enough to stand on their own here. Good energy throughout with a fairly diy sound that works well. Favourite Tracks: - Get Into Yours - You Got It - Come to Mind - Dead Love
A Stranger To You
Loathe
This one is disappointing. I'm a faily new listener of Loathe, but I did quite enjoy their last album. This one is so washed out and generic sounding though. The mix is terrible. There's hardly a memorable instrumental or vocal moment on this whole album. The vocals alternate between flat and generic, and blown out. There's a couple of okay tracks on here, but it's a shame I don't enjoy this more than I do. Favourite Tracks: - Meet My Maker - No Stranger To You
Cool World
Chat Pile
Crushing riffs and brooding vocals make up this juggernaut of a sludge metal album. It all hits hard, with the sound sitting somewhere between Korn and Swans(?). It works so well, looking forward to the new album coming out this year. Favourite Tracks: - I Am Dog Now - Frown Land - Funny Man - Camcorder - Tape - The New World - Milk of Human Kindness - No Way Out
Queens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age
lts fuzzier and heavier than their later albums, it's also not as good in my opinion. Not bad, but it does drag a little towards the end. There's some great riffs here, but it's lacking the character of future works as well as the catchy songwriting. But still, the bones of QOTSA's sound is here so it's worth a listen if you're into that. Favourite Tracks: - Regular John - Walking on the Sidewalks - Mexicola
Static Tensions (2022 Remaster)
Kylesa
Some killer riffs on this album, and I like the way the songs flow together. There is a bit of a lack of variety that results in the album feeling a bit samey down the stretch. Still, if your after some sludgy goodness, then this is definitely worth a spin. Favourite Tracks: - Scapegoat - Said and Done - Running Red
Faith
The Cure
Continuing the journey of The Cure slowly becoming my favourite band. This release is quite cold and moody. Less catchy than albums that came before and after, but the craft is incredible. The bass guitar really stands out in many songs here which I love, and Smiths vocals croon over the soundscapes well. Favourite Tracks: - The Holy Hour - Primary - Other Voices - Doubt - Faith
Surfer Rosa (2007 Remaster)
Pixies
It's an odd and eclectic collection of songs that don't really adhere to any genres. Don't know what to make of some of it, buts never dull. The production is pretty raw, as are the vocals, and the songwriting is unique to say the least. Favourite Tracks: - Bone Machine - Break My Body - River Euphrates - Where Is My Mind - Cactus
Machine Gun Etiquette
The Damned
This one struggled to stand out for me. May just be because I'm looking at it from a modern lens, but I feel there is punk from this era with much more character. Passable while it's on but not much I will return to here. Favourite Tracks: - Love Song - Plan 9 Channel 7 - Smash It Up
Alone Together
Show Me the Body
SMTB continue to show why they are one of the best Hardcore Punk band going today. They take a more simple approach this time around, and for me it works quite well. I will say the interludes are unnecessary, and bring the album down a touch though. Favourite Tracks: - Eat For Peace - No God - Good Time - Dance In The USA - New Line - Alone Together
Where Polly People Go to Read
Gus Dapperton
This somehow already sound nostalgiac for me. Some pretty chill alternative pop music, that works if your in more of a somber mood. Some good glitsy instrumentals and catchy hooks make for handful of memorable tracks. Favourite Tracks: - Nomadicon - Coax & Botany - My Favourite Fish - Fill Me Up Anthem
Either/Or
Elliott Smith
Music made by troubled deceased artists always seems to hit a bit harder, and this album is no different. Pairing good song writing with the indirect melancholy of their death can make for pretty effective listening. I think this album lacks a little variety for me personally, but I'll definitely be returning to this album, and checking out his other releases going forward. Favourite Tracks: - Ballad of Big Nothing - Between The Bars - No Name No. 5 - Rose Parade - Angeles - Say Yes
The Bends
Radiohead
Another essential album In a discography full of them. For better or worse, you can of tell this album doesn't bear the weight of expectation that their later releases would. There's a focus on moving past the sound of their debut, but doesn't feel like they are aiming for 'masterpiece'. I dig it. Favourite Tracks: - The Bends - High and Dry - Fake Plastic Trees - My Iron Lung - Bullet Proof - Street Spirit
Led Zeppelin II (Remaster)
Led Zeppelin
Another classic in the Zeppelin catalogue. I personally prefer their debut, but there is still huge tracks all over this one. Kicking off with one of the best songs they ever wrote, and the quality never really dips outside of a couple of meandering moments (Moby Dick being the worst offender). Favourite Tracks: - Whole Lotta Love - What Is and What Should Never Be - Thank You - Heartbreaker - Ramble On
CONFESSIONS II
Madonna
Never been much of a Madonna fan outside of tunes like 'Like A Prayer', that are undeniable. Never disliked her music, just never really bothered. This is some pretty quality Pop-House though, having a nostalgiac feeling without over-relying on this. The songs get more introspective deeper into the album, which does make the back end feel a little longer than necessary. Favourite Tracks: - I Feel So Free - Bring Your Love - Danceteria - Fragile
Dirt (2022 Remaster)
Alice In Chains
A great display of anger and depression that sits on the heavier end of Grunge music. Instrumentally it hits hard, great riffs with some tasty almost serpentine sounding bass lines throughout. All this paired with powerful vocals from Layne harmonizing well with Jerry. Not every song is a winner for me, but most of them are and the highs are very high. Favourite Tracks: - Them Bones - Down In A Hole - Rooster - Dirt - Angry Chair - Would?
The Real Thing
Faith No More
A transition period in Faith No More's discography. New vocalist Mike Patton mostly stayed within the confines of the FNM had been doing prior to his arrival, the signs of his later vocal infelection would peek through in parts. Not my favourite FNM album, but essential none the less. Favourite Tracks: - From Out of Nowhere - Epic - Falling to Peices - Surprise You're Dead - The Real Thing - War Pigs
Doctrine of Love
Jalen Ngonda
Ngonda follows up his great debut with an equally great follow up. While not as instantly snappy as the debut, repeat listens reveal Ngonda has a great ear for the past without feeling tacky or derivative. Favourite Tracks: - Doctrine of Love - Burning Temptation - Live is Gone - Hang it on the Shelf - Taken Out of the Picture
The 1975
The 1975
A good combination of indie and 80s pop. A bit overlong, with some filler but for the most part this album holds up well. The instrumentals are fun, and the songwriting is catchy and and clever. Favourite Tracks: - The City - Chocolate - Sex - Heart Out - Robbers - Girls
Destroy The Machines
Earth Crisis
Classic NYHC album here. Good lyrics over top of chunky riffs. It sounds a little dated but it still go hard. Favourite Tracks: - Born From Pain - New Ethic - The Discipline - Deliverance - Asphyziate - Fortress
Pornography
The Cure
A dark album that is best enjoyed in full, rather than singling out specific songs. It's dreary and moody, and maybe a touch repetitive. It's not my favourite album of theirs, but it's still an important album in their discography and is perfect when you're after this specific mood. Favourite Tracks: - One Hundred Years - Siamese Twins - The Figurehead - A Strange Day - Cold
Black Holes and Revelations
Muse
Big, epic stadium rock with some classic tracks on this album. Outside of the big singles there isn't too much that grabs my attention, but there's nothing bad and the good songs are really good. Favourite Tracks: - Starlight - Supermassive Black Hole - Invincible - Assassin - Knights of Cydonia
Humbug
Arctic Monkeys
Better than I remember. I remember being disappointed with the departure from their earlier sound at the time, but with time to grow used to their later sound I can now appreciate this album a bit more. While I still prefer the less 'serious' tone of their first two albums, the musicianship here is great. Turner hadn't fully disappeared up his own ass yet, and the band sound tight as ever. Favourite Tracks: - My Propeller - Crying Lightning - Potion Approaching - Fire and the Thud - Cornerstone - Dance Little Liar
Seventeen Seconds
The Cure
It's darker than their debut, and better off for it. Essential goth music that keeps if fairly minimal while still holding you attention, even through the instrumental tracks. Favourite Tracks: - Play For Today - In Your House - A Forest - M
Superfuzz Bigmuff (Deluxe Edition)
Mudhoney
Rating just based on the studio recordings that make up the first half of the album. Admittedly never listened to Mudhoney despite being a big fan of their contemporaries. This is a great grunge / punk crossover, with a raw unpolished sound that works quite well. Given this is a reissue with additional songs added, I'm not sure how this sound represents their later output but I'm eager to find out! Favourite Tracks: - Touch Me I'm Sick - Mudride - If I Think - Hate The Police - Halloween
Heavy Petting Zoo
NOFX
A pretty forgettable skate punk album, for me. Instrumentally there's nothing really notable here, and the vocals become quite grating towards the end. Not something I will be coming back to. Favourite Tracks: - Bleeding Heart Disease
I Built You A Tower
Death Cab for Cutie
It's introspective and sad, so may resonate with others more that it did for me. There's some good songwriting here, just not likely anything I see my self returning to. Favourite Tracks: - Punching the Flowers - Stone over Water - I Built You a Tower (b)
I Barely Know Her
sombr
This is pretty good pop rock. I think with time if Sombr can expand on this sound a vary it up a bit, we might have a great artist emerging. As it is, it's catchy and vibey, with easy relatable lyrics. Favourite Tracks: - 12 for 12 - i wish I knew how to quit you - back to friends - undressed
S&M
Metallica
Orchestral renditions of what is pretty much Metallica's greatest hits. It works quite well for the most part, giving a lot of songs an epic feeling. I think some renditions don't quite hit the mark (Sad But True, Hero of the Day), but some really hit it, particularly on the first disc. I do find Hetfields vocals a bit wearing as the album goes on though, as he was at the peak of doing weird voice inflections at this time. Favourite Tracks: - The Call of Ktulu - Master of Puppets - No Leaf Clover - Devils Dance - Battery
A.R.S.O.N.
Story Of The Year
First time listening to this band, and I think this is pretty good commercial Hardcore. I was surprised to see these guys have been active since the early 2000s, as there is pretty good energy on this album. They alternate between the heavy and the easy, and there is some good catchy hooks. Lyrically it could be more potent, bit I enjoyed this. Favourite Tracks: - Gasoline - Disconnected - See Through - Into The Dark - Good For Me, Feel So Bad - I Don't Wanna Feel Like This Anymore
Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
I think Morrissey borders on self parody here, but it works for the most part. Instrumentally this album is great, and I do enjoy Morrissey brand of crooning. It's a bit hard to take stuff like 'Meat Is Murder' seriously though. Favourite Tracks: - The Headmaster Ritual - I Want the One I Can't Have - Nowhere Fast - Well I Wonder - Barbarianism Begins At Home
Three Imaginary Boys
The Cure
A good debut for this legendary band. There's hints of their defining sound in here, albeit with a rougher mix than later releases. There's a bit of a dip in quality during the middle section, particularly the Foxey Lady cover, but for the most part this album is a successful debut. Favourite Tracks: - 10:15 Saturday Night - Another Day - Fire In Cairo - It's Not You - Three Imaginary Boys
Killer Be Killed
Killer Be Killed
The first half of this supergroup album goes hard, with each member bringing a taste of their main bands sound together to make some kick ass tunes. The album does lull a little in the middle, but there's some more good tunes towards the back end too. Favourite Tracks: - Wings of Feather and Wax - Face Down - Melting of my Marrow - Snakes of Jahova - Curb Crusher - IED - Dust Into Darkness
††† (Crosses)
✝✝✝ (Crosses)
Chino's side project at times feels like toothless Deftones, but mostly it creates a good vibe throughout. Some great production here, that pairs well with Chino's vocals to create some great soundscapes. Favourite Tracks: - Bitches Brew - The Epilogue - Nineteen Ninety Four - Option
City of Evil
Avenged Sevenfold
A7X goes big on this album, with the scope being larger than their previous album. It doesn't all land for me, with the back end of the album dragging a little. When they keep it simple, the album works much better. The singles are all great, anthemic rock tunes that were staples of my teen years. Favourite Tracks: - Beast and the Harlot - Burn It Down - Bat Country - Seize the Day
Love is the New Gangsta
6LACK
Quality introspective rnb album here. More streamlined than his previous album, with mood setting tracks all throughout. The production is great, and 6lack's vocals croon over the beats well. Favourite Tracks: - Bird Flu - All That Matters - I Guess - Sunday Again - Running Lare Freestyle - Bear
PUP
PUP
I found this more enjoyable than their most recent effort. Nothing stellar but a pretty solid debut with fun pop punk energy. Favorite Tracks: - Guilt Trip - Reservoir - Never Try - Yukon - Dark Days - Cul-De-Sac
Who Will Look After The Dogs?
PUP
Slightly Above Average Post Punk Pup is a group I have listened to on the side, but never a full album. This album was okay, but might prove to be a touch forgettable. Still there is some fun songs on here worth listening to. Favorite Tracks: - Concrete - Get Dumber - Paranoid - Hallways
Morbid Stuff
PUP
A cheeky peice of self-deprecating pop punk here. The energy is great throughout, and the lyrical content contrasts with the upbeat vibe well. Favourite Tracks: - Morbid Stuff - Free at Last - See You at Your Funeral - Sibling Rivalry - Full Blown Meltdown
Potemkin City Limits
Propagandhi
A bit of a step down from their previous albums, in my opinion. I feel a bit of character has been stripped, leaving this sounding more like a Rise Against album. Still a passable punk album, just not my favourite from the boys. Favourite Tracks: - Fedallah's Hearse - Cut Into the Earth - Life At Disconnect - Iteration
UGLY
slowthai
Grungy, Punk inspired hip hop that only Slowthai could come out with. It's not a perfect album, but it is full of character and shows an artist reaching beyond his usual style of music. Still patiently waiting for the follow up that hopefully continues down this road. Favourite Tracks: - Selfish - Feel Good - Never Again - Happy - Tourniquet
Inferno
Boards of Canada
Another case of an established artist returning in 2026 to release a great album, again showing bad times makes good music. The crackley sampling, over clean production sets a great mood throughout. Longevity remains to be seen, but first impressions are great. Favourite Tracks: - Prophecy at 1420 MHz - Hydrogen Helium Lithium Leviathan - Father And Son - Naraka - The World Becomes Flesh - Blood In The Labyrinth - All Reason Departs
Cry Baby
Vince Staples
Great production throughout this album. Vince flows over these live music inspired beats well, and the lyricism is mostly good too. Score will likely go up with further listens. Favourite Tracks: - Blackberry Marmalade - White Flag - Big Bad Wolf - Cotton
Royal Blood
Royal Blood
Heavy, catchy, and infinitely relistenable. The two-piece put out a big sound, considering. Pretty good hit-rate too, with 5 of these tracks getting regular rotation when they were released. They don't deviate from their formula much, but the riffs and drumming are on point. Favourite Tracks: - Out of the Black - Figure It Out - Little Monster - Careless - Ten Tonne Skeleton
Leviathan
Mastodon
Mastodon at their sludgy best here, before they went full prog metal. Riffs are great, and the drums rule throughout. Being a concept album, they lyrics all follow the same great theme, Moby Dick. The album kicks off on the higgest point possible with Blood and Thunder, though I do thing it loses steam little towards the end. Favourite Tracks: - Blood and Thunder - I Am Ahab - Seabeast - Iron Tusk - Megalodon - Hearts Alive
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
Huge album, a near-perfect debut. Timeless songs all over this, not sure what I can say that hasn't already been said 1000 times. Essential listen for rock and guitar fans. Favourite Tracks: - Babe I'm Gonna Leave You - You Shook Me - Dazed and Confused - Your Time Is Gonna Come - Communication Breakdown - I Can't Quit You Baby
Opportunities
Hot Mulligan
I didn't expect much given this is a very early release in their catalogue, but this sits well amongst their latest releases. They had already curated their sound, and the instrumental and vocal performances here are great. Some tacky lyrics aside, this is quality. Favourite Tracks: - If You Had Spun Out.. - The Hammer Guy Is At It Again - Wait For It - I Replied to Tyler with Three Blue Cars - Deluxe Capacitor
Electric Ladyland
Jimi Hendrix
Transportative psychedelic blues rock, that sounds classic but still ahead of its time considering this is from the 60s. Hendrix is undeniable on the licks, and the songwriting is great here too. A pair of 15 minute epics immerse you in his sound, and they are separated by a great run of rock tunes. Favourite Tracks: - Voodoo Chile - Long Hot Summer Night - Come On - Gypsy Eyes - Rainy Day, Dream Away - Still Raining, Still Dreaming - House Burning Down - All Along the Watchtower - Voodoo Child
Same Old Tunes
Millencolin
There's not much for me to come back to here. It's skate punk/Ska that has been done better by many others. I can't be too harsh though, as it's a debut from a young band still finding their feet. I'm sure the following releases will improve on this, given they are inspiration few some of my favourite bands.
The Dark Pool
Thornhill
Pretty good Metalcore album here, with a bit more nuance and variety than their contemporaries. The transitions between songs are seamless, and flow and pacing of the songs themselves is great. Rating mat increase with further listens. Favourite Tracks: - Nurture - The Haze - Coven - Where We Go When We Die
PLANET FROG
Action Bronson
A pretty fun psychedelic rap album. Bronson laid back delivery flows well over these unique beats. His lyrics are goofy and charming as ever, and there's some pretty good features throughout too. Favourite Tracks: - OLYMPIC VINCE CARTER - TRICERATOPS - PEPPERS - MANDEM
Ride The Lightning (Remastered)
Metallica
Classic Thrash album that sits comfortably in second place in Metallica's discography for me (behind Puppets). Great pace on all of these songs, with great reprieve in Fade to Black. Great riffs, great solos, the only thing for me that could be improved is the vocals. Not so much the performance, but the way it is mastered. Favourite Tracks: - Ride The Lightning - For Whom the Bell Tolls - Fade To Black - Trapped Under Ice - Creeping Death
Unknown Pleasures
Joy Division
It's a dark album, compounded by Curtis' death the following year. It's a case of an album and a band being forever stuck in the small window of time that they were active, and that always makes for an effective listen (similar to Jeff Buckley and Her's). I don't think it's a perfect album, but it has that intangible quality that gives it that classic status. Favourite Tracks: - Disorder - Day of the Lords - New Dawn Fades - Interzone
Injury Episode
Static Dress
God damn, this album came out of nowhere. First time listener to these guys, and they may have just put out my favourite album of the year so far. Hints of 2000s rock and metalcore, but still sounds very modern. Aggressive and abrasive in parts, but the slower sections work just as well. Favourite Tracks: - Pharmacy Film - Adapter - Nostalgia Kills - Lip Critic - Male Bomb - Classic.Death.Pose - human props - Treading
Ghost Reveries
Opeth
A near flawless combination of Prog Opeth, and Death Metal Opeth. It's epic, it's depressing, and its all performed perfectly. The songs are long but they are a journey and never overstay their welcome. The understated section where you can hear every note, culminate well into clean Death Metal, with Mikaels vocals being perfectly suited for both. Favourite Tracks: - Ghosts Of Perdition - Baying of the Hounds - Beneath The Mire - Reverie/Harlequin Forest - The Grand Conjuration
EXPERIMENTAL RAP
JPEGMAFIA
First time listening to Peggy since Veteran, which i enjoyed at the time. This album was okay, but got a little tiresome at points. The vocal performances really don't have much flavour, and there's nothing really memorable here that isn't a sample. The production is where he usually shines, and there is some good moments here. I was pretty done with the Riddim inspired beats by the end though. Favourite Tracks: - babygirl - $ - The Ghost of Emmett Till - Yen - New Era
Master of Puppets (Remastered)
Metallica
Classic/10. It really is just a flawless thrash album, with no wasted moments. Every song here can reasonably be considered some of Metallicas best, and the best in the genre over all. It's easy to scoff at Metallica these days as the poster boys of heavy metal, but revisiting this shows that that blew up for good reason. No skips.
Consistency of Energy
Viagra Boys
A great 4-track taster, sounding a bit grungier than their later releases. Those signature rolling grooves carry the album along, feeling particularly groovy during Can't Get It Up. Research Chemicals is really the highlight, and it's easy to see why they end their sets with this tune.
Rust Never Sleeps
Neil Young, Crazy Horse
An album of two halves. The first, the classic Neil Young folk sound he is known for. This half features great songwriting, and fun guitar work. The second half is more rock oriented, bordering on grungy at times, and its great. Favourite Tracks: - My My, Hey Hey - Thrasher - Sail Away - Powderfinger - Hey Hey, My My
…For The Whole World To See
Death
Recorded in the mid 70s and kept on the bench until 2009, this Punk album was ahead of its time and completely unnoticed for too long. It's not perfect, but it's shows great potential for a band that never got a chance to reach it. Favourite Tracks : - Keep On Knocking - Rock-n-Roll Victim - You're A Prisoner - Politicians In My Eyes
First Two Seven Inches
Minor Threat
I appreciate the foundation that this lay for hardcore, and there is some good tunes on here. I also like the Straight Edge themes throughout, making for some unique lyrical content. I just don't think it has aged as well as other hardcore albums of the era. A little repetitive, even with most of the tracks being very short. Favourite Tracks: - Seeing Red - Screaming At A Wall - Minor Threat - In My Eyes
Down The Way
Angus & Julia Stone
Sweet and sad indie folk, that is a little overlong but easy to listen to. It's pretty minimal in it's sound, with most tracks having plenty of breathing room which is nice. First half is definitely the stronger half. Favourite Tracks: - Black Crow - For You - Big Jet Plane - Santa Monica Dream - Yellow Brick Road - I'm Not Yours
ONLY ONE MODE
Speed
Great music to get the blood pumping. Chunky riffs and breakdowns, with aggressive vocals don't overstay their welcome on this brief album, making it ideal for repeat listens. Favourite Tracks: - Don't Need - The First Test - Kill Cap - I Mean It - Caught In A Craze
God's Favorite Customer
Father John Misty
It's a relatively 'safe' offering, when compared to his previous 3 albums. It almost works as a reset after the scope of Pure Comedy, and I think it works. The album breezes by with the smooth songwriting and introspective lyricism that you expect. Favourite Tracks: - Mr. Tillman - Date Night - Please Don't Die - God's Favourite Customer - We're Only People
COLD 2 THE TOUCH
Angel Du$t
Damn this is good stuff, love that feeling of discovering a band that instantly clicks. Great hardcore/metalcore that scratches that turnstile itch, while also standing on its own. Looking forward to diving into their earlier albums for sure. Favourite Tracks: - Cold 2 The Touch - Zero - Dust - Man On Fire
Alpha Omega
Cro-Mags
Cro-Mags go pretty much full Thrash here, and its pretty good. It doesn't reach the highs of the first two albums, but it's still a fun listen with some great head-bobbing riffs throughout. Favourite Tracks: - Eyes of Tomorrow - Apocalypse Now - The Paths of Perfection - Kuruksetra
On the Beach
Neil Young
Probably an album that will grow on me further as time goes on, but my first dive into Youngs discography starts on a high. Sitting somewhere between country, folk, and rock the more minimal songs shine for me. Great introspective songwriting with transporting instrumentals. Favourite Tracks: - Walk On - Revolution Blues - Vampire Blues - On The Beach - Motion Pictures
The Dream
The Favors, FINNEAS, Ashe
Some easy breezy listening throughout this duet album from Finneas and Ashe. The songwriting is great, and instrumentally it's pretty tight. Not every song clicked for me, but it's definitely worth a listen. Favourite Tracks: - The Little Mess You Made - The Hudson - Necessary Evils - Someday I'll Be Back in Hollywood
Brand New Eyes
Paramore
A near perfect pop-punk record. Like Williams herself, Paramore's music is aging like fine wine which I guess is why they are finding a new crowd with TikTok. Alternating between upbeat rock tunes and powerful ballads, this album doesn't really dip in quality throughout its runtime. Favourite Tracks: - Careful - Ignorance - Playing God - Brick by Boring Brick - The Only Exception - Misguided Ghosts - All I Wanted
The Art of Partying
Municipal Waste
Some silly, fun Thrash/Punk that doesn't really take itself too seriously. They're all about the party here, and they don't waste any time. It's a little one-note, but brief enough so it's not really an issue. Favourite Tracks: - The Art of Partying - Mental Shock - Lunch Hall Food Brawl - Chemically Altered - Rigorous Vengeance
Less Talk, More Rock
Propagandhi
A great collection of in-you-face Punk tunes. Subtlety is nowhere to be found, and I love the attitude. The production on this is also much better than I anticipated, with everything sounded crisp without feeling over produced. Favourite Tracks: - Less Talk, More Rock - And We Thought Nation States Were A Bad Idea - Resisting Tyrannical Government - The Only Good Fascist is a Dead Fascist
Ambiguous Desire
Arlo Parks
My first full Arlo Parks album, and this is a bit more danceable than I was expecting. Beautiful production, smooth singing, and goos songwriting combine to produce a great neo-soul album with a bit of electronic influence. Favourite Tracks: - Blue Disco - Heaven - Luck of Life - What If I Say It
God Save The Three
glaive, kurtains
Not entirely my cup of tea. It's pleasant enough while it's on, but it's a little forgettable for me. I can definitely see the laid-back pop style connecting with others though. Favourite Tracks: - The Band - Spinning Around - The Trouble
I Let It in and It Took Everything
Loathe
Great Alternative Metalcore here. Doesn't stick to one style, and flows between genres quite well. Production might be a touch too clean, but the riffs and breakdowns are great, and the vocals range is pretty good for this type of album. Favourite Tracks: - Aggressive Evoution - Two Way Mirror - Screaming - Gored - Heavy is the Head
Moments Before The Wind
Free Throw
A decent pop punk album. Nothing you must go our of your way to hear, but if you're a fan of the genre then it's worth a listen. Some good angst, catchy in parts. Also a bit plain in parts, with some Tracks struggling to stando out. Favourite Tracks: - Missingno - For Those Who Come After - Floarama Town - Deviancy
Marquee Moon
Television
A great post-punk album, that really sounds ahead of it's time and doesn't sound all that dated. Great guitar work, and songwriting throughout. The standout being the 10 minute title track. Marquee Moon. Favourite Tracks: - Friction - Marquee Moon - Elevation - Guiding Light - Torn Curtain
Motorhead
Motörhead
This album was recorded in a day with no budget and it shows. Everything is a little muddy, and Lemmy's voice is a bit buried. It's almost part of the charm though, as this album still rips through its short run time. Sitting somewhere between punk and heavy metal, this album set a great foundation for future Motorhead releases. Favourite Tracks: - Motorhead - Iron Horse - White Line Fever - Keep Us on the Road - The Watcher
Punk In Drublic
NOFX
A pioneering album, that sounds a little bland by today's standards. The album rolls along quite nicely though, and there's some fun tongue-in-cheek lyrics. Most songs are quite brief, and give the album a good pace throughout. It's just not very memorable for me personally, and I don't think I'll be returning to much here. Favourite Tracks: - Linoleum - The Brews - Lori Meyers - Jeff Wears Birkenstocks - Reeko
Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill
A great debut here from Cypress Hill. The Cypress formula still hasn't really been matched, and they still sound one-of-one to this day. They would improve on this in their next album, but this was a good starter and sign of things to come. Favourite Tracks: - How I Could Just Kill a Man - Hand on the Pump - Real Estate - Latin Lingo
The Dream Is Over
PUP
It's not my favourite Pup album, but it's still enjoyable. Good punk energy throughout, but I find some of the songs messy and not so pleasant to listen to. For the most part it's a nice progression in their discography, but they would go on to do better. Favourite Tracks: - DVP - Old Wounds - My Life Is Over and I Couldn't Be Happier
Born To Kill
Social Distortion
I'll be honest, I didn't expect much out of a Social Distortion album in 2026. But this is pretty good! They still have the energy, and this album fits right in with their 90s releases for me. Doesn't really have anything new to say, but it invokes nostalgiac feeling from their heyday. Favourite Tracks: - Born to Kill - Tonight - Wicked Game - Walk Away
Million Dollars to Kill Me
Joyce Manor
Not my favourite JM album, but even then this is still a fun pop punk with some indie influence throughout. It's brief as all Manor albums tend to be, and never feels drawn out. I do prefer when their sound has a bit more of an edge to it though. Favourite Tracks: - Fighting Kangaroo - Think I'm Still in Love With You - Million Dollars to Kill Me
Slip It In
Black Flag
A bit of a step down compared to their previous (non spoken word) albums, but still enjoyable. Good aggression on most of these tracks, but some filler and a poor opening track hold it back. Favourite Tracks: - Black Coffee - Wound Up - The Bars - You're Not Evil
Parallel Lines
Blondie
Fun pop rock, that forces a good mood while listening. It's all groovy, danceable, and a good time. Debbie Harry is an incredible front woman, and its easy to see how Blondie have endured so long. May grow to appreciate this one more over time. Favourite Tracks: - Hanging on the Telephone - One Way or Another - Fade Away and Radiate - 11:59 - Heart of Glass - Just Go Away - Bang a Gong (remastered album)
OK Computer
Radiohead
What more can be said about this album really. It's a great album, that gets even better with each listen. Timeless, essential, flawless. Favourite Tracks: - Paranoid Android - Subterranean Homesick Alien - Exit Music - Let Down - Karma Police - No Surprises
Prophecy
Soulfly
Unfortunately peaks with the very first song, but there's still plenty to like about the rest of the album. It's a bit of a mash of styles ranging from Thrash and Nu Metal, to more South American traditional sounding music that I'm too uncultured to name. It works well for the most part, the the final 3 songs feel like they belong to a different album. Favourite Tracks: - Prophecy - Living Sacrifice - Mars - In The Meantime
The Band from Wellington, New Zealand
DARTZ
Fun, tongue-in-cheek punk rock that is made to be enjoyed live. Saw them open for Tuenstile a couple of years ago and they were great! Here we have a quick collection of tunes with good energy, and pretty funny lyricism. Favourite Tracks: - 40 Riddiford Street - Bathsalts - 1 Outs Captain Cook - Pray for Prey
Green Room (Original Soundtrack Album)
Brooke Blair and Will Blair
A lot of ambient tracks, with a handful of punk tunes scattered throughout. Nothing too standout out, but it all serves the movie well (the movie is great btw). I particularly enjoy the rendition of Nazi Punks Fuck Off. Favourite Tracks: - Prowling Leather - Nazi Punks, Fuck Off - Coronary - Sinister Purpose
Indestructible
Rancid
Another fun punk album from Rancid here. The Ska influence keeps this bouncy, and there's some pretty catchy tunes. Some filler is present, but nothing outright bad. Favourite Tracks: - Fall Back Down - Red Hit Moon - Out of Control - Back Up Against the Wall
Something Worth Waiting For
Friko
Not entirely my flavour. There's some alright moments here, usually when they slow it down and let the songs breath a little. Promise for sure, and I'll check out more of their output going forward, but thos didn't really do it for me. Favourite Tracks: - Alice - Seven Degrees
Best Wishes
Cro-Mags
More thrash than their previous album, perhaps taking inspiration from other bands at the time. There is still some of that hardcore sound in there though, and it makes for a pretty kick ass sound. Great energy on this one. Favourite Tracks: - Death Camps - Days of Confusion - Fugitive - Age of Quarrel
You're Gonna Miss It All
Modern Baseball
A very self-aware and cheeky emo album, that is full of character. There's some bops here, but some of the lyrics are a bit to goofy for my taste. When showing a touch of restraint though, it sounds pretty good. Favourite Tracks: - Fine, Great - Rock Bottom - Your Graduation
Youth War
Kublai Khan TX
Had no idea these guys had been around since 2010. This is a good taster of things to come for Kublai Khan, with the signature slamming riffs and raw vocal stull pummeling for it's short run time. Favourite Tracks: - Colour Code - Teeth - Retention
Tacet
Appleorchard
Listen based on an Instragram recommendation. Some 90s emo/post-punk here that is a little rough around the edges (understandable), but a good enough listen. Nothing I think I'll come back to all that much, but I appreciate finding these lesser known bands that fly under the radar. Favourite Tracks: - Friendly Fire - City of Recovery - New Year - Song Sung True
Grace
Jeff Buckley
Sorry, where has this album been my whole life? Had previously heard only Hallelujah, and assumed the rest of the album would sound the same. Hallelujah is an incredible song, but a whole album sounded taxing so never got around to listening to the full thing. Now here I am in my 30s discovering potentially one of my favourite ever albums. The songwriting is great, the vocals both powerful and desperate. Instrumentally gripping, and I can't wait to learn some of these songs going forward. Great stuff. Favourite Tracks: - Grace - Last Goodbye - So Real - Hallelujah - Lover You Should Come Over - Forget Her
IT'S BEEN AWFUL
Isaiah Rashad
A great, vibey, introspective listen here. Doesn't stray too far from it's established sound, bit it rolls along quite nicely. I like Rashads mostly understated style of rapping, and the production is cloudy and nice. Favourite Tracks: - M.O.M - Same Shit - Boy In Red - Do I Look High - GTKY - Cameras
BRAT
Charli xcx
Late to the party with this one. Really a great pop album with great production throughout. Not all of it is my personal flavour, but every song has its place here. Great songwriting that varies from surface level, to introspective. Deserves the hype. Favourite Tracks: - Club classics - Sympathy is a knife - Von dutch - B2b - 365
Smash
The Offspring
The singles are great, catchy, pop-punk tunes. Even though I hate the hook from Self Esteem. Everything else is pretty filler though, and I find the vocals a bit grating throughout. Favourite Tracks: - Gotta Get Away - Cone Out and Play - Self Esteem (partially)
Prison Bound
Social Distortion
Social Distortion might be my favourite band that I have yet to rate above 6/10. I wouldn't call most of their music great or recommend it all that much, but it satisfies when I'm in a certain mood. Groovy pop punk here that sounds similar to their following two albums. Favourite Tracks: - It's The Law - Outlaw - Prison Bound - No Pain No Gain
The Eminem Show
Eminem
Not much can be said about this album that hasn't already been said 1000 times. It's a classic that mostly holds up pretty well. This really was the last album of his that I enjoy though, and it's crazy to look back on his fall off because he really seemed untouchable at the time. Favourite Tracks: - White America - Cleanin Out My Closet - Sing For The Moment - Superman - Till I Collapse
Today's Empires, Tomorrow's Ashes (Reissue)
Propagandhi
Great punk album that hits a little closer tho the Gardore end of the spectrum. Instrumentally it's raw, and the in-your-face vocals are great. Easy add to my rotation. Favourite Tracks: - Fuck The Border - Back To The Motor League - Ladies Nite In Loserville - Purina Hall Of Fame
One Of Us Is The Killer
The Dillinger Escape Plan
Dillinger's most accessible album in their discography here, pairing abrasive math-rock riffs with catchy hooks and chunky breakdowns. It's a combination that works well. Favourite Tracks: - When I Lost My Bet - One of Us is the Killer - Hero of the Societ Union - Paranoia Shields - Crossburner
VII: Sturm Und Drang (Deluxe Edition)
Lamb of God
Coming off the heels of Randy's prison stint, this album had great energy and plenty to say. This album sees LOG deviate from their formula more than previous albums had, which mostly worked out quite well. I also enjoyed the surprise features from two of my favourite vocalsts, Chino and Puciato. Favourite Tracks: - Still Echos - 512 - Overlord - Torches
CTRL ESCAPE
John Summit
I had low expectations based off other reviews, but I thought this was fine. It's pretty toothless and not likely anything I will return to, but it's okay for a one-off listen. I thought the run from Lights Go Out to Chica 305 was enjoyable.
Mister Asylum
Highly Suspect
Man it's a shame how hard these guys fell off, because their first two albums are genuinely great. Great modern blues rock, with great riffs, good vocals, and catchy songwriting. Favourite Tracks: - Lydia - Bath Salts - Mom - Bloodfeather - Claudeland
Sticks And Stones
New Found Glory
Starts quite strong, but fizzles a little towards the end. Still, pretty good 2000s pop punk here if that's what you're in the mood for. Nothing groundbreaking, but follows the formula quite well. Favourite Tracks: - Understatement - My Friends Over You - Head On Collision - It's Been A Summer - Forget My Name
Bleed American
Jimmy Eat World
A little disappointed in this one. The singles I already knew are great, but there's not much else for me here. A few bops, surrounded by generic alt rock full of cliches and a few terrible hooks. First half is worth a listen though. Favourite Tracks: - Bleed American - The Middle - Sweetness
BLACK MIDAS
ZHU
Not ZHU's strongest effort here. The production and sound design is still great, but the songwriting is a bit uninspired for my taste. ZHU's lyrics have always been a bit average, but they feel at their worst here. Still a couple of bops though, and nothing outright bad. Favourite Tracks: - LEVELZZZ - 5STARRR
Marcy Playground
Marcy Playground
Laid back alt rock that comes and goes without leaving much of an impression. It's pleasant enough when it's playing but I don't think I'll come back to much here. Favourite Tracks: - Sex & Candy - Sherry Fraser
Disarm the Descent
Killswitch Engage
A pretty good return from Killswitch. Howard leaving likely would have killed any other band, but the boys persevered with original vocalist Jesse Leech. The riffs are strong as ever, and get the head bobbing throughout. Some of the lyrics are a bit melodramatic and cliche, but the delivery is strong. Favourite Tracks: - The New Awakening - In Due Time - Turning Point - No End In Sight
Damned Damned Damned (Bonus Tracks Version)
The Damned
Pretty good punk album, that is a little too of-its-time for me. It's pretty fun, but not as brash as their contemporaries at the time so a little less memorable for me. Still worth a listen if you're after some old school punk. Favourite Tracks: - Neat Neat Neat - Born To Kill - Feel The Pain - New Rose
blink-182
blink-182
A more mature sound leads to some unmemorable tracks on this album. Nothing bad, of course, but doesn't contain that same juice as their earlier albums. There is still some great moments here, and obviously some of Blinks most popular songs so it's not all bad. Favourite Tracks: - Feeling This - I Miss You - Always - All Of This
Elisabeth
Zach Bryan
A great singer-songwriter effort from Zach here, that is a bit more stripped back than much of his later albums. This album is all about the song writing, with most of these songs being relatable stories played out with minimal frills. Favourite Tracks: - Come As You Are - Heading South - Mine - Loom - Revival
The Smiths
The Smiths
I've always liked the singles of The Smiths, but never really delved much deeper. This is a great album, with a beautiful sound the whole way through. Songs flow well together, just needs a few more standout moments. Also thing the last song let the album down a touch. Favorite Tracks: - Reel Around The Fountain - Pretty Girls Make Graves - The Hand That Rocks The Cradle - This Charming Man* - Still Ill - What Difference Does It Make
The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
Not my favourite Smiths album, even so this is still a great album and I understand the classic status. There's a couple tracks I'm not fond of, (Vicar, and Some Girls) but for the most part this is The Smiths operating ahead of their time and mostly delivering the croony, depressing goods. Favourite Tracks: - I Know It's Over - Bigmouth Strikes Again - The Boy With The Thorn In His Side - There Is A Light That Never Goes Out
Mezzanine
Massive Attack
Putting the 'trip' in Trip Hop, this album flows along so well. The production is great, and has aged so well. The vocals maybe a bit less so, particularly on the male side of things. The ethereal vocals from the woman however are timeless and these tracks are where this album shines. Favourite Tracks: - Angel - Teardrop - Black Milk - Mezzanine
private music
Deftones
Deftones best album since Koi No Yokan in my opinion. That great juxtaposition of heavy riffs and soft vocals still sounds as good as it ever did. Production is great. After a few more listens this grade might be bumped up a bit, great stuff. 19.04.2026 Edit - Having listened through this multiple times since it's release, I feel I can now bump that grade up. This really is one of the best albums they have release, and to do it this far into their career is nuts. Who would've predicted this kind of longevity. Unbelievably hyped for the gig next month. Favorite Tracks: - my mind is a mountain - locked club - ecdysis - infinite source - I think about you all the time - milk of the madonna - cut hands
Louder Now
Taking Back Sunday
A noticeable decline in quality from their previous two albums, but still features enough energy and charm to carry it. There are a few bops here for sure, a bit of filler too though that I won't feel the need to revisit. Favourite Tracks: - Liar - MakeDamnSure - Spin - Error: Operator
Tell All Your Friends (Remastered)
Taking Back Sunday
Solid pop punk throwback. This album feels like a bit of a time capsule, with a good sound and vibe. All songs here are at least decent, with a few standouts. Favorite Tracks: - You Know How I Do - Cute Without The 'E - There's No 'I' In Team - Ghost Man On Third - You're So Last Summer*
Stick Season
Noah Kahan
A decent but overlong pop-folk album. The songwriting and general vibe evoke some nostalgiac feelings, and it is quite catchy in parts. A bit of a lack of variety across the near hour long run time do cause it to drag a little. Favourite Tracks: - Northern Attitude - Stick Season - Come Over - Homesick
Nine Inch Noize
Nine Inch Nails, Boys Noize
An excellent collab here between Trent Reznor and Boys Noize. Classic and lesser known track from the Nine Inch Nails catalogue are reporposed with dark, heavy, synth to create an awesome Industrial bass album. Wish I could've seen this set at Coachella, hopefully they do a world tour. Also here's hoping for some original music from this duo. Favourite Tracks: - Vessel - She's Gone Away - Heresy - Me, I'm Not - Closer - As Alive As You Need Me To Be
HALO
Tiffany Day
Electropop that is fun in parts but not entirely my flavour of music, though I can see the appeal. The production is well done, ranging from bedroom pop to hyper pop (almost). There is a bit of a lack in variety with the vocals though, as the verses blur together. Some catchy hooks though. Favourite Tracks: - PRETTY4U - NO LUCK - AMERICAN GIRL
The Peace And The Panic
Neck Deep
Hits every pop punk cliche, but it's still catchy and enjoyable. Would put it in the upper tier of modern pop punk releases I have heard so far. Poppy guitars, melodramatic vocals, and catchy hooks throughout keep this humming along. Favourite Tracks: - The Grand Delusion - In Bloom - Wish You Were Here - Heavy Lies
Youth
Citizen
A great, somber emo album here. The songwriting is pretty good, and it's all put together well. The vocals match the pained, desperate lyrics well. Great listen if you're in that kind of mood. Favourite Tracks: - Figure You Out - Sleep - How Does It Feel - The Night I Drive Alone - Speaking With a Ghost
Antics
Interpol
I prefer this to their first album, but I still feel like I'm missing something with Interpol. Maybe you had to be there. Nothing really grabs my attention or makes me feel anything. Favourite Tracks: - Evil - C'mere
Why Would I Watch
Hot Mulligan
Another set of great tracks from Hot Mulligan here. Sways between Pop Punk and Hardcore so effortlessly and results in an album that's both catchy and abrasive. These guys are gast becoming my favourite modern emo band. Favourite Tracks: - It's a Family Movie She Hates Her Dad - This Song Is Called It's Called What It's Called - Christ Alive my Toe Dammit Hurts - Shhh Golf Is On - Smahccked My Head Awf
Pray for Paris
Westside Gunn
Has that classic Griselda sound that I enjoy, but I feel Gunn himself gets a bit overshadowed by his features her. Still and above average album, but not as instantly grabbing as other works. Favourite Tracks: - George Bondo - 327 - $500 Ounces
Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman
Chapman's warm voice carries you through this honest, peotic, still relevant album. The fact this album still holds relevance lyrically means she may have been a touch too optimistic, but I can't fault her for that. The songwriting here is great, with a couple of all-timer songs on this. Favourite Tracks: - Talkin' 'Bout a Revolution - Fast Car - Baby Can I Hold You - If Not Now
Dude Ranch
blink-182
Usual Blink fare here. A few catchy pop punk tunes l, surrounded by filler. I would have rated this a bit higher if they trimmed the fat a bit. But as it stands it goes on a bit too long with the songs down the stretch feeling a bit samey. Also the skit at the end had me rolling my eyes. Favourite Tracks: - Voyeur - Dammit - Waggy
Buddha
blink-182
A tepid debut. First time hearing any songs off this album, as I've only ever really listened to their later hits. This was okay, but outside of a few songs there isn't much worth revisiting. Generally not as exciting or catchy as their later releases. Favorite Tracks: - Carousel - Time - Reebok Commercial - The Girl Next Door
Take Off Your Pants And Jacket
blink-182
A light, fun, poppy punk album from the masters of it. Blink comes through with another collection of catchy tunes about how hard it is to be a teenager, and it instantly transports me back to being a kid in the 2000s. Favourite Tracks: - Anthem Part 2 - First Date - The Rock Show - Stay Together for the Kids - Everything I Look For You
G.O.A.T
Conway the Machine, Daringer
Great dark, cold rap performances here over great production. The grimy feel comes across well, and there's great features throughout. Only gripe is a lack of variety between songs, as it does begin to blend together a bit. Favourite Tracks: - Trump - Die on Xmas - Xxxtras - Bullet Club
Treats
Sleigh Bells
Must've been hype when this one dropped. The combination of indie pop vocals, classic samples and heavy distortion leads to a unique style that still hasn't really been matched. Great energy on this one. Favourite Tracks: - Tell 'em - Riot Rhythm - Infinity Guitars - Rill Rill - Treats
Exhibition Of Prowess
Kublai Khan TX
Chunky riffs, brutal breakdown, and aggressive vocals combine to make a great Hardcore album. Not reinventing the wheel here, but the brief run time prevents and feelings of repetition creeping in. Just a kick ass Album to get the blood pumping. Favourite Tracks: - Darwinism - Theory Of Mind - 972 - A Hopeless Fate
TESTING
A$AP Rocky
A hit and miss release from Rocky. For every good song, there's a forgettable song following not long after. Still worth a dive if you are a fan of Rocky, as the highs are pretty good. Just lacks consistency and coherence. Favourite Tracks: - Asap Forever - Fukk Sleep - Praise The Lord - Gunz N Butter - Kids Turned Out Fine
UTOPIA
Travis Scott
No one sets a vibe like Travis Scott. Doesn't match the hype of Astroworld, but the production on the album still rules. Lyrically, Travis doesn't break any new ground but a list of great features help carry that weight. Favourite Tracks: - Hyaena - Modern jam - I Know? - Circus Maximus - Looove - Telekinesis - Til Further Notice
Welcome
IDLES
A fairly unmemorable debut EP here, Idles would obviously go on to release much better music. The usual energy is missing from this one. Favorite Tracks: - 26/27 - Two Tone
Brutalism
IDLES
Like Fontaines D.C., Idles first album is probably the most neglected from me. Not sure why though because it is a great album, I guess I just prefer what was to come! Great punk energy on this one. The instrumentals all sound great and I love the raw vocals. Most of the themes hit well for me too. Favourite Tracks: - Well Done - Mother - Date Night* (Joe sounds like a fukn dog at points on this one, so good) - 1049 Gotho - Stendhal Syndrome
CRAWLER
IDLES
This album sees Idles dial back some of the brash attitude of the previous album, and experiment with some different sounds. It's less immediately attention grabbing, but rewarding on repeat listens. I think it fizzles a little towards the end though. Favourite Tracks: - When The Lights Come On - Car Crash - Stockholm Syndrome - The Beachland Ballroom - Crawl
ADL
Yeat
Passable Trap that has been done before and done much better. Doesn't contain enough fresh ideas to warrant an hour long run time. There's some goofy vocal inflections across this this but I can't deny some of these hooks are earworms, "geeked off that molly" might be a new vocal stim for me. Favourite Tracks: - Face The Flamë - Griddlë - Let King Tonka Talk - Went Wrong
POST HUMAN: NeX GEn
Bring Me The Horizon
A chaotic, sometimes confusing offer that lands to varying degrees of success. Not everything here works, I even found parts of it a bit grating, but there is some bangers throughout. I appreciate them trying new things, but I still much prefer their earlier works. Favourite Tracks: - Kool Aid - Limousine - Darkside - Amen!
ill Manors
Plan B
An interesting listen. A bit of a genre mash up, with lyrics describing life within council housing estates. It works for the most part, though it is a little dated sounding at this point. I imagine resonates a bit more for others more than it did me. Favourite Tracks: - Ill Manors - I Am The Narrator - Playing With Fire - Runaway - Live Once
Full Circle
Tom Misch
A little disappointed in this one. Tom's talent behind the instruments shines, and his voice sounds smooth as ever. The song writing just doesn't grip me however, which is a shame considering there's some obviously personal introspective lyrics here. It all just feels a little flat. Favourite Tracks: - Flowers In Bloom - Slow Tonight
Heavy On The Soul
Ty Myers
Some good singer-songrwriter country tunes here. As with his previous album, I still think he needs to trim the fat and make these albums a bit leaner. As it is, there is some filler still. There is plenty to like here though, and he remains a rising artist to look out for. Favourite Tracks: - Morning Comes - Me Neither - Message To You - Come On Over, Baby - Good Morning Paris
Gemini Rights
Steve Lacy
Struggles to standout amongst other contemporary neo soul albums. Smooth enough vibe, but it's all maybe a touch forgettable for me. Favourite Tracks: - Bad Habit - Sunshine
MEMORIA, in blue
Noah Guy
Pretty good debut RnB album here. He's released plenty of singles before this, but it's his first full length so technically a debut. I think he still hasn't quite found his groove yet but the potential is there. Definitely worth a listen if you enjoy RnB or neo soul. Favourite Tracks: - Again - My Loss - Higher
ALL ROADS LEAD HOME
Central Cee
The music is a good enough vibe while it's on, with nice trap beats and Cench's usual laid back flow. He's still not bringing a lot of variety to things though. That works fine on a shorter album like this, but doesn't really have me itching for a full length LP. Favourite Tracks: - Iceman Freestyle - Wagwan - DC10 - Maka
Ain't Smiled in Ages
Everyone You Know
A fun mash up of genres, with songwriting that seems to give a snapshot into the lives of these guys. The lyrics alternate between cheeky and earnest, but always seem sincere. Pretty fun album, with a unique sound. Favourite Tracks: - Proper Stuff - The Drive - Waiting - Kiss The Sky
RTJ4
Run The Jewels, El-P, Killer Mike
Has there ever been another discography that is 'all killer no filler'? If not, I think this might be the first. RTJ reduce the posturing and dick jokes, and cone through with probably their most lyrically potent album yet. Praying for a follow up because if there was ever a time for a new RTJ album, it's 2026. Favourite Tracks: - ooh la la - holy calamafuck - ju$t - a few words for the firing squad
Run The Jewels 3
Run The Jewels, El-P, Killer Mike
RTJ sound settled into their groove here. Less 'kicking in the door', but rather sounding like have been doing this forever and can do it easily. It's maybe a bit less cheeky than RTJ2, with the political state of things at the time influencing a more serious tone for the most part. Great beats, great lyricism, great music as always. Favourite Tracks: - Call Ticketron - Hey Kids - 2100 - Report to Shareholders / Kill Your Masters
Run The Jewels 2
Run The Jewels, El-P, Killer Mike
Improves on the already great RTJ1 in every way. Great production, great flows, great lyricism. Alternates between tongue-in-cheek, and earnest perfectly. Still sounds fresh and relevant today. Favourite Tracks: - Oh my Darling - Blockbuster Night Pt 1 - Close Your Eyes - Lie Cheat Steal - Love Again
Run The Jewels
Run The Jewels, El-P, Killer Mike
A great collaborative effort that was a teaser of better things to come from Killer Mike and El-P. The production is great throughout, with banging beats that were pretty forward thinking at the time. Mike's southern flow over these beats hits hard as ever. Favourite Tracks: - Run The Jewels - Banana Clipper - Job Well Done - A Christmas Fucking Miracle
The New Abnormal
The Strokes
Somehow The Strokes managed to make their final album their best. Retaining some of the energy from their first few albums, while coming through with a more mature sound overall. Favourite Tracks: - The Adults Are Talking - Selfless - Bad Decision - Not The Same Anymore - Ode To The Mets
Eat The Elephant
A Perfect Circle
It's a long, moody, serious peice that didn't always hold my attention very well. Well crafted no doubt, but not an album I will return to all that much. Favourite Tracks: - Disillusioned - The Doomed - Talk Talk
The Sound a Body Makes When It's Still
Hot Mulligan
My first time listening to these guys, and this is pretty good stuff! Pop punk with raw vocals that veer into hardcore territory. Pretty bouncy fun tube's with just the tight amount of aggression, will definitely be checking out more from these guys. Favourite Tracks: - And a Big Load - Bon Jonah - Monica Lewinskibidi - Carbon Monoxide Hotel - Slimdog Scungillionaire
Trying Times
James Blake
Didn't quite click on first listen, but grew on me the second time around. The production is top notch as always, but the song writing isn't 100% there for me. Still, Blake's voice is nice as ever, there's a couple of decent features here, and the spacey futuristic beats sound great. Favourite Tracks: - Trying Times - Make Something Up - Doesn't Just Happen
From Mars to Sirius
Gojira
Great prog death metal here. For the most part it's an assault of riffs and breakdowns, and this helps the moments of levity stand out. It manages to be catchy in places, despite how heavy and raw it is. The songwriting and lyricism is great here as well. Not sure it needed to be as long as it is, as some moments linger a bit too long though. Favourite Tracks: - Ocean Planet - From The Sky - Heaviest Matter of the Universe - Flying Whales - In The Wilderness
Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
A near perfect neo-soul album. Brimming with personality, perfectly produced, well written, and sung beautifully. A bittersweet reminder of what could have been one of the defining voices of the century. Favourite Tracks: - You Know I'm No Good - Back To Black - Love Is A Losing Game - Tears Dry In Their Own - Wake Up Alone
Somewhere Between Heaven And Hell
Social Distortion
Not agreat album but not bad either. It's nice enough to listen to but I can't see myself returning to much here. Thought it started off pretty well, but it's largely forgettable without any kind of flavour to help any of the songs stand out. Favourite Tracks: - Cold Feelings - 99 To Life
Into Oblivion
Lamb of God
This album rips, maybe their best album since Ashes of the Wake? LoG sound revitalized here and are as aggressive and groovy as ever. The riffs are tight, the breakdowns groovy, and the vocals are visceral. My top album of the year so far, for sure. Favourite Tracks: - Into Oblivion - Sepsis - St Catherine's Wheel - Blunt Force Blues - Bully
Zach Bryan
Zach Bryan
Was after something a bit mellow this morning so put this one on. Not a bad album, works well enough as a backdrop while working. Nothing too standout and it's a bit long, but it all flows along rather well. Favorite Tracks: - Overtime - Summertime's Close - Ticking - El Dorado - Smaller Acts - Oklahoma Son
The Great American Bar Scene
Zach Bryan
Some nice chill music for a Friday morning. I enjoyed this one though it could stand to be trimmed a bit, for a less meandering listen at times. Favorite Tracks: - The Great American Bar Scene - 28* - Oak Island - Like Ida - Better Days - Pink Skies
All My Homies Hate Ticketmaster (Live from Red Rocks)
Zach Bryan
Zack and co look and sound like they're having a blast on here, and that feeling translates to a fun listen. It's not an essential live album for me personally, but if you're at all a fan of Bryan's music it is definitely worth a listen.
Gamma
Gesaffelstein
A good collection of New Wave influenced Industrial Techno. Gesaffelstein retains his dark brand of techno, but tightens everything up and gets to the point with shorter, catchier tunes. As a full album it does feel a bit undercooked though, will have to see how it sounds within the context of the live album. Favourite Tracks: - Hard Dreams - Your Share of the Night - The Urge - The Perfect
My War
Black Flag
An album of two halves. Starts where Damaged left off, and decends into long, Sabatthy, doom metal tunes. It kinda works, but I prefer the focus of their previous album. Still, I appreciate the swing rather than sticking to one formula. Favourite Tracks: - My Way - Beat My Head Against the Wall - Nothing Left Inside
Monica
Jack Harlow
Easily Jack's best album yet. I love the production on this, and Jack's hushed singing works very well over top. A very welcome change of pace and I hope he follows this path further. Favourite Tracks: - Trade Places - Prague - My Winter - Living Alone - Against The Grain
Isolation
Kali Uchis
Pulling from a range of influences, Uchis puts together an excellent neo-soul pop album. While she dabbles in different genres throughout, the quality remains consistent apart from maybe the interludes. A confident debit, and a good sign of what was to come. Favourite Tracks: - Miami - Just a Stranger - Your Teeth In My Neck - After The Storm - Killer
Turn On The Bright Lights
Interpol
Man I don't know what I'm missing with Imterpol. On paper I should enjoy this band, but I've always found them quite bland and forgettable. They'll be opening for Deftones in a couple of months so I decided to give them another go. Still the same story unfortunately, just nothing here grips me all that much.
Thriller
Michael Jackson
First time listening to this front-to-back. This really is a perfect pop album. The funky openers lead into an all-time four track run. Seriously The Girl Is Mine through to Billie Jean is possibly the strongest four track run I can recall hearing on a pop album. It's all catchy, mood-lifting, danceable tunes from start to finish. No skips.
Purple Rain
Prince
I mean, it's a bonfied classic for a reason. Prince laying down jams, as only Prince can. Combining funk, soul, disco, rock and everything else he's made a near perfect album that is capped by one of the best songs of all time. Classic/10 Favourite Tracks: - Take Me With U - Computer Blue - When Doves Cry - Baby I'm A Star - Purple Rain
Repeater + 3 Songs
Fugazi
Great on first listen, even better on repeat. Excellent post-hardcore album here both instrumentally and lyrically. I also enjoyed the instrumental breaks throughout. A timeless sounding album that will be entering my rotation for sure. Favourite Tracks: - Merchandise - Greed - Two Beats Off - Shut The Door
40 oz. to Fresno
Joyce Manor
Hard album to rate. It's very short and doesn't break any new ground. But it's a fun little slice-of-life offering of pop punk that makes me feel good inside, and that's all that really matters, right? Favourite Tracks: - NBTSA - You're Not Famous Anymore - Gotta Let It Go - Did You Ever Know?
Morning View
Incubus
I feel this is probably an album that works better in the context of the early 2000s. For me, in 2026 there isn't much for me outside of the singles that I already know. Nothing necessarily bad, just uninteresting and forgetful. Favourite Tracks: - Nice To Know You - Wish You Were Here - Warning - Are You In
Snipe Hunter
Tyler Childers
A great genre clash here combining country, bluegrass, rock, and Rick Ruben's signature production for a more adventurous take on southern music. A lot of it is tounge-in-cheek but there's sincerity here too, and Childers continues to pull out in front of his contemporaries. Favourite Tracks: - Oneida - Nose on the Grindstone - Poachers - Tirtha Yatra
With Heaven On Top
Zach Bryan
For me, this is an improvement over the original release. A much more intimate and relaxed Bryan improves on almost every song from the original, with a tighter focus on his songwriting and storytelling. Favourite Tracks: - Runny Eggs - Santa Fe - Slicked Back - Plastic Cigarette
Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally.
Harry Styles
Harry pulls inspiration from an exciting combination of genres and scenes and at times it is fun, but a lot of it falls pretty flat for me. He really only touches the surfaces of these influences, as this album really calls for stronger, punchier production. As it is, we have a pleasant enough listen that I can't see myself returning too. Favourite Tracks: - Aperture - American Girls - Paint By Numbers
Strictly 4 The Scythe
Denzel Curry, The Scythe
Some pretty good posse cuts here from denzel and the gang. A short run of bangers that mostly leaves me wanting more. There's a good list of features here from some familiar faces, and others I had never heard before. I do wish there was some more back and forth between artists though. I also found most of the hooks to be pretty weak. But for the most part these are all bops and enjoyable to listen too, just not sure of the staying power. Favourite Tracks: - Lit Effect - Phony - Up
Wuthering Heights
Charli xcx
My first dip into Charli's discography here. Not sure how it fits within the context of the film, or how it compares to her official releases. Alone it is decent though, with good vocals, catchy songs, and great production with quality sound design. There's some good peaks here, but not every song manages to stand out. The brief runtime prevents anything outstaying it's welcome though. Favourite Tracks: - Dying For You - Chains Of Love - Alters - My Reminder
Unplugged
Alice In Chains
I've listened and watched this set so many times now, and I still stop and watch every time. The stripped back, acoustic sound produces such a haunting sound that combines with the general context of the performance (being one of Layne's last) and makes for a one of a kind listen. Essential listen for rock fans. Favourite Tracks: - All Of Them
The Death Card
Sworn In
Proto-modern metalcore here, these guys come through with a sound that must've been an influence for many modern metalcore bands today. The glitchy riffs are great, and the breakdowns kick ass. The lyrics are a bit too edgy for my taste, but the delivery is great. Favourite Tracks: - Hypocrisy - Dead Soul - A Song for the Nameless - Snake Eyes - Three Cheers - Death
The Age of Quarrel
Cro-Mags
A great hardcore/thrash crossover album, that kicks ass for it's brief runtime. The vocals are a little odd, which might throw some off but I enjoyed it. Will definitely be coming back to this one. Favourite Tracks: - World Peace - Malfunction - Seekers of the Truth - Life of My Own
Adolescents
Adolescents
Classic hardcore here. By today's standards it is a bit by-the-numbers, but the simplicity isn't necessarily a bad thing. It's a short barrage of great, straightforward punk tunes, and sometimes that's all you need. Favourite Tracks: - Wrecking Crew - LA Girl - Kids of the Black Hole - Amoeba - Rip It Up - Welcome To Reality
Immersion
Pendulum
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (30/30) Pendulums strongest album for me. Combining the best bits of their first two albums, and creating some great dance floor DnB. The vocals are still a bit flat but it's not a deal breaker. Also love the collaboration with In Flames. Favourite Tracks: - Watercolour - The Island pt1 - The Vulture - Witchcraft - Self vs Self
Time And Tide
Split Enz
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (29/30) A solid New Wave, Alternative album here from Split Enz. They have a unique sound for sure, which is probably why they're still looked back on fondly today. It's not entirely my flavour, but enjoyable enough. Favourite Tracks: - Dirty Creature - Hello Sandy Allen - Six Months In A Leaky Boat
Hold Your Colour
Pendulum
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (28/30) Another solid DnB offering from Pendulum here, with plenty of highlights throughout its slightly overlong run time. Most tracks are worth a listen and the peaks are great. Can't wait to hear them pump some of these tracks out live with the full band! Favourite Tracks: - Through The Loop - Tarantula - Hold Your Colour - The Terminal - Blood Sugar
Blush
There's A Tuesday
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (27/30) Some good melancholy indie tunes in here. The instrumentals are breezy and the vocals are soft and at times haunting, similar to Julia Jacklin. Rock solid debut here and I'll definitely be checking out future releases. Favourite Tracks: - London & Leaving - Long Distance Lovers - Brighton
Chiaroscuro
Ocean Alley
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (26/30) A good collection of psych surf rock. Great chill vibes on some of these tracks, with sweet licks and tasty basslines throughout. I do think the album fizzles a little towards the end unfortunately. Favourite Tracks: - The Comedown - Confidence - Knees - Overgrown
hickey
Royel Otis
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (25/30) It's pleasant, but a bit flavourless and forgettable. There's a nice optimistic sound to it (outside of the lyrics) and I'm sure it will sound decent live, but it's all a bit bland and I can't see myself returning to it. Favourite Tracks: - i hate this tune - torn jeans - shut up
Never Hungover Again
Joyce Manor
Another fun, short collection of pop punk tunes that evoke a nostalgiac feeling even though I never really listened to these guys at the time. No super high peaks, but it's a pretty consistent little sprint. Favourite Tracks: - Christmas Card - Victoria - Schley - The Jerk - Catalina Fight Song
Painkiller
Judas Priest
This album kicks ass. A solid collection of infectious thrash metal tunes that get the blood flowing. The riffs and solos here are killer, and although the lyrics feel a bit dated at points, the delivery is killer. Features on of the best opening tracks of all time too. Favourite Tracks: - Painkiller - All Guns Blazing - Between the Hammer and the Anvil - A Touch of Evil
Lost Tropics
Ocean Alley
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (24/30) A bit of a nostalgiac one here, as a few if these songs got heavy rotation from me in my early twenties. This album excels when it slows down, and plays it mellow. I fond some of the peppier tracks to be a little flavourless personally. But I do still live those chill tracks. Favourite Tracks: - Lemonworld - Hold On - Feel - Holiday - Sleep On It - Partner In Crime
Nebraska
Bruce Springsteen
This was a nice easy listen. I like the understated, somber sound and it all flows together nicely. A good start for my dive into Springsteens catalogue. Favorite Tracks: - Nebraska - Mansion on the Hill - Highway Patrolman - State Trooper* - Used Cars
Darkness On the Edge of Town
Bruce Springsteen
A bit edgier than some of his other releases, this album maintains a pretty good blues rock vibe throughout. The vocals do sound a little goofy at times but the story telling and songwriting is all on point. Favourite Tracks: - Adam Raised A Cain - Racing In The Street - The Promised Land - Streets Of Fire
As Days Get Dark
Arab Strap
An interesting album for sure. I enjoy the melancholy tone and the storytelling in a few of these songs. I'm just not sure it's anything I will ever come back to. Favourite Tracks: - The Turning of our Bones - Compersion Pt 1 - Here Comes Comus! - Fable if the Urban Fox
The Art of Loving
Olivia Dean
This is good stuff. A breezy, warm, smooth neo soul album with solid production and great vocals. The songwriting here is great, with nice little earworms throughout the brief runtime. Favourite Tracks: - Nice To Each Other - Close Up - So Easy - Man I Need - A Couple Minutes
Ohms
Deftones
Somewhat of a return to form, though they never dipped too far in the first place. Deftones provide another tight set of rock solid tunes, that are more of a refinement of their sound, rather than anything groundbreaking. More instantly enjoyable than Gore, but not quite at the level of something like Around The Fur. Favourite Tracks: - The Spell Of Mathematics - The Link Is Dead - Radiant City - Ohms
Paradise Now
Obongjayar
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (23/30) A little over-stuffed, but this genre-bending albums has enough bops and character to carry it through. I feel the potential is there with Obongjayar, that has yet to be fully realized. Favourite Tracks: - Jellyfish - Sweet Danger - Just Cool
I Used To Go To This Bar
Joyce Manor
A fun, nostalgia trip of a pop punk album. It's quite short, but the songs are snappy and catchy enough that your left wanting more, even though no too much stands out. Favourite Tracks: - All My Friends Are So Depressed - I Used To Go To This Bar - Grey Guitar
I Promised The World
I Promised The World
A decent metalcore offering here, owing itself more to the 2000s brand of metalcore with similarities to Parkway Drive and Underoath. Will be a band to look out for, hopefully they can carve out a bit more of a signature sound on their next full length album. Favourite Tracks: - A Pure Expression - Bliss In 7 Languages - Future worth Dying For
Diaspora Problems
Soul Glo
This album rips so hard. Abrasive hardcore, punk, and hip hop combine to make a one of a kind listen. I can't wait to see what these guys do next. Favourite Tracks: - Gold Chain Punk - Coming Correct Is Cheaper - Jump!! - John J - GODBLESSYALLREALGOOD - Spiritual Level Of Gang Shit
Avenged Sevenfold
Avenged Sevenfold
I wore this album out in my teens, so may be nostalgia talking here, but this album is great. A bit of a mess of styles but instrumentally it's great, and and the songwriting is mostly pretty good. Some of the lyrics might be a bit tacky, but that's part of the charm. Favourite Tracks: - Critical Acclaim - Almost Easy - Afterlife - Gunslinger - Little Peice Of Heaven
The Silence In Black And White (Re-Issue)
Hawthorne Heights
A pop punk classic. I think it has aged fairly well, maybe not as well as some of its contemporaries but still it sounds pretty good. The songwriting doesn't deviate from standard pop punk of the time, but has some fun riffs, catchy hooks and decent breakdowns. Favourite Tracks: - Niki FM - The Transition - Silver Bullet - Ohio Is For Lovers
Making Movies
Dire Straits
Not my favourite from the boys. Starts off quite strong, but gets a little forgetful down the stretch. There is still plenty to like though, with Straits blending Rock n roll, Country, and blues super well. Favourite Tracks: - Tunnel Of Love - Romeo and Juliet - Sketaway - Expresso Love
A Grand Don't Come for Free
The Streets
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (22/30) Another good album from The Streets here. Didn't grip as much as the debut album, but this thing is still loaded with character, good storytelling, and interesting beats. Favourite Tracks: - Blinded By The Lights - Wouldn't Have It Any Other Way - Fit But You Know It - Dry Your Eyes - Empty Cans
Crazy Itch Radio
Basement Jaxx
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (21/30) Didn't vibe with this album as much as their previous output, unfortunately. There's still some poppy, bubbly fun to be had here, but nothing really sticks or demands a second listen for me.
Brothers in Arms
Dire Straits
Dire Straits killed it with this one. Front loaded with poppier tunes and getting more progressive as the album goes on, and concluding with one of my favourite songs from their catalogue. Favourite Tracks: - So Far Away - Money For Nothing - Walk Of Life - Your Latest Trick - Why Worry - Brothers In Arms
On Every Street (Remaster)
Dire Straits
Some nice smooth tunes here, with a good country twang to them. Knopflers tasty licks and nice vocals stand out, and the way he says Heavy Fuel tickles my brain. A couple of songs towards the end I'm not a fan of but most are worth listening to. Favorite Tracks: - Calling Elvis - On Every Street - When It Comes To You * - The Bug - You And Your Friend - Iron Hand - Planet Of New Orleans
Dire Straits
Dire Straits
An excellent debut here, that has since gone down as a classic. The licks, songwriting, and story telling are all on point here and it's groovy as hell. Favourite Tracks: - Down to the Waterline - Six Blade Knife - Sultans of Swing - Wild West End
So Tonight That I Might See
Mazzy Star
A timeless dream pop classic. Melancholy and vibey throughout, the album maintains a consistent quality, that sounds right at home in the 2020s. Also features one of the best songs of all time. Favourite Tracks: - Fade Into You - Five String Serenade - Unreflected - Wasted
Spice Up My Life
Sammy Virji
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (20/30) Feels a little flavourless compared to his later releases. Feels like pretty standard garage here, nice to listen to and sets a vibe, but nothing stands out all that much. Seems more made for mixing than dedicated listening. Favourite Tracks: - Spice Up My Life - Basic - Elephant
Gag Order
Kesha
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (19/30) I had heard Kesha's newer music was better than her older stuff, but never really gave it a listen. But yeah, this is pretty good. Less party-pop and more subdued and introspective. I love the production on this album, and keshas vocals and songwriting shine here. Favourite Tracks: - Eat The Acid - The Drama - Hate Me Harder - Happy
Come Around and Love Me
Jalen Ngonda
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (18/30) What a voice. I'll be honest I thought it was a woman at first, but a bloke hitting these falsetto's is nuts. I have to catch this guy live. A great soul record here that throws back to the soul singers of old. The song writing here isn't revolutionary but with the sheer talent in the performance department it gets by. Favourite Tracks: - Come Around And Love Me - If You Don't Want My Live - Lost - Just Like You Used To - It Takes A Fool
Original Pirate Material
The Streets
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (17/30) This was quite a bit better than I expected. I had only heard of few tracks from these guys, and while decent I never bothered to look much further. This is full of character, the beats are great, it's lyrically interesting. Great stuff. Favourite Tracks: - Has It Come To This? - Same Old Thing - Don't Mug Yourself - Stay Positive
THE BPM
Sudan Archives
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (16/30) A surprising album from Sudan Archives, putting out a collection of hybrid R&B, house, hyper pop, EDM tracks that works quite well. Doesn't always flow super well, but that lends a kind of chaotic element to it that I think adds to the experience. Hoping her performance plays like this album does! Favourite Tracks: - YEA YEA YEA - THE NATURE OF POWER - MY TYPE - MS PAC MAN - NOIRE
Don't Be Dumb
A$AP Rocky
A bit of a mash of styles and ideas that works for the most part. Honestly the last 8 years have passed so quick I didn't realise he'd been gone so long, but listening to this makes it clear he hasn't lost a step. Here's hoping this isn't a one-off and he keeps putting out new music. Favourite Tracks: - Stole Ya Flow - Stay Here 4 Life - No Trespassing - Punk Rocky - Whisky
In Silico
Pendulum
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (15/30) It's not their best album, they would go on to release better stuff. But it's still decent, with a few bops on here. Much of it just falls a bit flat though, with the combination of DnB and rock feeling a bit sanitized and sterile. Still, though good songs go pretty hard, and I'm sure will rip live. Favourite Tracks: - Propane Nightmares - Visions - Granite
HORSESHIT ON ROUTE 66
The Garden
Band I caught recommended on Insta so decided to give them a spin. Then listened to this album 4 times in a row. This is a great, grungy, chaotic alternative punk record. Will definitely seek out more from these guys. Favourite Tracks: - Puerto de Limosina - Horseshit On Route 66 - What Else Could I Be But A Jester - Squished Face Slick Pig Living In A Smokey City
Love Balloon
Ocean Alley
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (14/30) Seen these guys play a few times now, and they always put on a good show. They stick to their guns here, and don't venture too far from their usual sound. Unfortunately it makes for a slightly unremarkable listen, as I feel like I've heard this all before. There are a few decent tracks on here though, and I'm sure hearing them live will help me appreciate them more. Favourite Tracks: - Tangerine - Left of the Dealer - Drenched
Kish Kash
Basement Jaxx
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (13/30) I appreciate Jaxx not strictly sticking to their formula here, but this album didn't grip me as much as their previous effort. There is glimpses of great stuff scattered, but something is missing for me personally. Favourite Tracks: - Right Here's The Spot - Cish Cash - Hot 'n Cold
All That We Know
Mini Skirt
Saw these guys open for Viagra Boys last week and thought they were pretty good, so gave them a go. Some of the tracks struggled to stand out a bit here, but generally this is pretty decent. A pretty standard punk/post-punk effort with the occasional glimpse of further potential. Will be keeping an eye out for future releases. Favourite Tracks: - Smart Enough - Been A While - Mud
Welcome to the Mood
LEISURE
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (12/30) A vibey indie disco album here. It pretty, cruisy, and pleasant to listen too. Some tracks are a bit unseasoned and struggle to stand out but as a whole I enjoyed this. Favourite Tracks: - Missing You - The Colour of the Sound
Which Way is Forward?
Obongjayar
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (11/30) Had previously only heard Obongjayar's features with Little Simz and Fred Again. This EP is kinda as expected, a brief teaser into his unique style. Not too much stood out here, but the grooves are nice, and I enjoy his unique vocals. Favourite Tracks: - Dreaming In Transit - 10K
True Colours
Split Enz
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (10/30) Pretty good new wave album here. Not entirely my flavour but there is some good tunes scattered through here, and there is a nice eccentric sound throughout. Favourite Tracks: - Shark Attack - I Got You - Nobody Takes Me Seriously - Poor Boy
Inertia
Pendulum
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (9/30) Pendulum shows that they still have the juice, 15 years on from their previous album. Mixing stadium DnB with metal in a way that gets the blood pumping, and I imagine will sound incredible in a live atmosphere. There's some great features here as well that keep the energy up. Favourite Tracks: - Come Alive - Save The Cat - Cannibal - Halo - Silent Spinner
Remedy
Basement Jaxx
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (8/30) Not as high on this one as I was with their following album. At times feels a little derivative of other artists of the era, and lacks the character of their second album. Still there is some bops on here for sure, and you could do worse as far as dance albums go. Favourite Tracks: - Rendez-Vu - Jump 'N Shout - Red Alert - Bingo Bango
Same Day Cleaning
Sammy Virji
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (7/30) Pretty good UK Garage album here, with plenty of grime features helping to create a few bangers throughout. There's also some more vibey tracks on here that go down pretty well. Maybe lacks some real stand out moments but pretty solid all around. Favourite Tracks: - One For The Books - Cops & Robbers - 925 - Dis Badman - Match My Mood - Roads Roulette
Athena
Sudan Archives
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (6/30) A unique blend of genres results in a R&B album with a distinct sound that works very well and stands out from her contemporaries. Will definitely seek out more from Sudan Archives going forward! Favourite Tracks: - Confessions - Iceland Moss - Coming Up - Limitless
Soft Power
Fazerdaze
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (5/30) Another soft dream pop release from Fazerdaze here, with this one going into even dreamier territory. This is a great follow up to her debut with a nostalgiac sound that maintains a solid vibe throughout it brief runtime. Favourite Tracks: - So Easy - Dancing Years - In Blue - Distorted Dreams - Cherry Pie
Indigo - EP
Flamingo Pier
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (4/30) The second EP by these guys is another brief one, containing a handful of groovy tunes. Great retro inspired house here, with great production and sound design. Definitely a vibe I can get into, will definitely I'm to check these guys out at EA 2026.
Flamingo Pier EP
Flamingo Pier
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (3/30) A short one here, this only being a 5 track EP. Some nice vibey, cruisy house music here. Retro inspired, and even with some hints of acid house in there, I could see this going down well at the early stages of the festival. The dub remix is the only song I wasn't super high on, but it was fine. Favourite Tracks: - Tell Me How - Hold It - Find Your Way - The Deepest
Rooty
Basement Jaxx
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (2/30) Great production on this one that has stood the test of time. Parts funky, parts grimy, parts groovy. The tounge-in-cheek vocals elevate the music well (for the most part), and make for a fun listen. Favourite Tracks: - Romeo - Breakaway - Get Me Off - Where's Your Head At
Morningside
Fazerdaze
30 Albums Before Electric Avenue 2026 - Reviewing the albums of artists on the line up. (1/30) This album surprised me. A nice, cruisy, comfy shoegaze/dream pop album. The tone is pretty consistent throughout and the brief run time prevents filler. Great start to this series! Favourite Tracks: -Last to Sleep - Lucky Girl - Misread - Jennifer - Shoulders
Angles
The Strokes
A bit more scattershot than their previous albums, with The Strokes playing with their sound a bit here. The result is a bit of a mixed bag, though mostly good. Even with the sonic changes, it still sounds undeniably like a Strokes record. Favourite Tracks: - Under The Cover Of Darkness - Two Kinds of Happiness - Taken For A Fool - Games - Metabolism
Room On Fire
The Strokes
An excellent follow up to their debut. Strokes continue with their timeless brand of indie rock. Short, snappy catchy tunes carry the album along. A brief, but never outstanding it's welcome. Favourite Tracks: - Reptilia - Automatic Stop - 12:51 - You Talk Way Too Much - Meet Me In The Bathroom - Under Control - The End Has No End - I Can't Win
Is This It
The Strokes
Excellent debut here from The Strokes. Short and to the point, with a great nostalgic sound. Not much more can be said that a 1000 other reviewers haven't already said, just a classic album. Favorite Tracks: - Is This It - Soma - Someday - Alone, Together - Last Nite - Hard To Explain - New York City Cops - Trying Your Luck
You Won't Go Before You're Supposed To
Knocked Loose
It's heavy, it's aggressive, it's raw, and it kicks ass. KL put together another great set of tracks that pummel you for it's brief runtime. There's also some fun features on here which is a surprise, especially that from Poppy. Favorite Tracks: - Piece By Piece - Suffocate - Don't Reach For Me - The Calm That Keeps You Awake - Blinding Faith
Wrath
Lamb of God
I'm surprised this isn't looked on more fondly, as this album is better than I remembered. A bludgeoning set of tacks that never really let up the pace all that much. The drums, riff, and vocals all sound great and are mixed well. The songwriting is groovy and catchy. Honestly I think this is some of LOGs best works. Favourite Tracks: - In Your Words - Set To Fail - Contractor - Fake Messiah - Grace - Broken Hands - Dead Seeds - Reclamation - Condemn The Hive
Meteora
Linkin Park
All killer no filler (almost). LP picks up where they left off with another set of killer tracks, providing another short sprint of an album featuring clean, heavy nu-metal at its best. The scream/rap combo sounds as good as it did previously over some tasty riffs and sweet breakdowns. Favourite Tracks: - Don't Stay - Somewhere I Belong - Lying From You - Faint - Figure.09 - Breaking The Habit - From The Inside
Gore
Deftones
I remember not being very invested in this album when it came out. I preferred it this time around. A solid but slightly unmemorable effort from Deftones. There's some good peaks here, but a lot of it feels a bit safe and stripped of character. Favourite Tracks: - Acid Hologram - Doomed User - Hearts / Wires - Gore
Jar Of Flies
Alice In Chains
A brief, dark, sad collection of acoustic alternative rock songs. The first half of this album is stacked. Unfortunately the last few songs don't hit as well for me. Instrumentally it's darkly soothing, and the harmonies are haunting. Favourite Tracks: - Rotten Apple - Nutshell - I Stay Away - No Excuses
The Select
Ty Myers
Solid contemporary country debut here from Ty Myers. It's bloated, like many other country albums these days, so for every good track there's also a bland track. If the fat was trimmed, this would be a pretty great album imo. Still, I will be keeping an eye Myers going forward. Favourite Tracks: - Ends Of The Earth - Let 'Em Talk - Somewhere Over You - Drunk Love - Drinkin' Alone
Favourite Worst Nightmare (Standard Version)
Arctic Monkeys
Great follow up to their debut. They keep up the energy with another collection of catchy tunes with lots of character. Doesn't quite reach the highs of their debut but it's pretty damn close. Favourite Tracks: - Brianstorm - Teddy Picker - Fluorescent Adolescent - Do Me A Favor - Old Yellow Bricks - 505
Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
Arctic Monkeys
I forgot how much I enjoy this album. I must say I much prefer this sound here to their more modern sound. Timeless indie rock with heaps of personality, and super catchy. No skips on this one. Favorite Tracks - All of them tbh but if I had to choose.. - Fake Tales of San Francisco - Still Take You Home - Mardy Bum - When The Sun Goes Down
AM
Arctic Monkeys
A great groovy album that evolves on their earlier sound. It's not my favourite album from them, but it's pretty close. Filled with groovy instrumentals, cheeky songwriting, and catchy hooks it's pop-rock done right. Favourite Tracks: - Do I Wanna Know - R U Mine? - One For The Road - Arabella - No. 1 Party Anthem - Why'd You Only Call Me When You're High - Snap Out Of It - Knee Socks - I Wanna Be Yours
Black Sunday
Cypress Hill
Fun catchy bops all over this album. A little front loaded but the back half is still solid. B Reals goofy voice over Muggs' beats just works and makes for an engaging listen throughout. Favourite Tracks: - I Wanna Get High - We Ain't Goin Out Like That - Insane In The Brain - When The Shit Goes Down - Cocktail The Hammer - Hits From the Bong
Glockaveli
Key Glock
This album works as a vibe, but nothing really stands out all that much. Glock has his style and he sticks to it, which is fair, but it means there isn't much variety to his albums. It does mean that it satisfies when I'm in a particular mood though, so there's that. Favourite Tracks: - Glockaveli - Sunny Dayz - Don Dada
Columns of Impenetrable Light
Bleached Cross, True Faith
An album of two halves here, featuring a handful of songs by Bleached Cross to start and True Faith to finish. The BC songs shine here, with an almost industrial goth rock sound that echoes Health at times. The True Faith songs are decent but nothing really stood out, still I will keep an eye out for future releases from both bands. Favourite Tracks: - Griefs Eternal Wound - Rain of Tears - The Weeping
Reign In Blood
Slayer
A thrash classic. A brief, pummeling, heavy album with punk influence all over it. May have the strongest end of any metal album I have heard with Postmortem/Raining Blood. Favourite Tracks: - Angel Of Death - Piece By Piece - Necrophobic - Criminally Insane - Epidemic - Postmortem - Raining Blood
Koi No Yokan
Deftones
How can a metal album be so dreamy? Deftones strip their sound to basics, and stick to what works. What could've ended up sounding phoned in, instead sounds focused and vibrant. Great album here. Favourite Tracks: - Swerve City - Leathers - Poltergeist - Tempest - Gauze - Rosemary
It's Almost Dry
Pusha T
Pusha T might be the most consistent rapper in recent memory. Tight, blunt, no frills rap album here, and its great. Fill with his usual bravado, great beat selection, and decent features. Favourite Tracks: - Brambleton - Let the Smokers Shine the Coupes - Just So You Remember - Call My Bluff - Hear Me Clearly
choke enough
Oklou
A breezy peice of spacey alt-pop that never quite connected with me. Never bad, but I felt most of the tracks struggled to stand out. It's vibes for sure though, so others will likely get more out of it than I did. Favourite Tracks: - blade bird
Songs of Her's
Her's
Impossible not to hear this album without feeling the weight of what would happen to these guys not long after. Quite a melancholy listen but for me it's more if a 'celebration of life' feeling rather than full on depressing. Really it's a brief collection of catchy indie-pop tunes that serve as a teaser for great career that we never really got to see. Favourite Tracks: - Dorothy - Cool With You - Marcel - Medievil - What Once Was
Talking Machine
The Wytches
Not their strongest output for me. Still, their unique gothic surf rock sound makes for a pretty breezy listen. There just isn't too much that stands out and will draw me back. Favourite Tracks: - Black Ice - Coffin Nails - Nothing To See - Don't Make It For Me
Ultra Mono
IDLES
Very on-the-nose, but subtext is for cowards anyway. Idles continue their hot streak with this album, which is somehow more in-your-face and filled with character than their previous albums. It doesn't all land, but most of it does. Favourite Tracks: - War - Kill Them With Kindness - Model Village - Carcinogenic - Reigns - The Lover - A Hymn
Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (2014 Remaster)
Black Sabbath
While I shouldn't fault bands for experimenting and changing up their sound, this album just hasn't connected with me like their previous albums did. Gone are the raw grooves, making way for more anthemic and dare i day 'poppier' tunes. Not bad by any stretch, just not my flavour. Favourite Tracks; - Sabbath Bloody Sabbath - A National Acrobat - Killing Yourself to Live
Significant Other
Limp Bizkit
Too long with too much filler. The songs you already know are great, they go hard. The rest just isn't very good. Decent instrumentals are brought down by Dursts ramblings and seemingly at times ad ribbed vocals. I will always have time for those hits though. Favourite Tracks: - Nookie - Break Stuff - Re-Arranged - N 2 Gether Now
Hybrid Theory
Linkin Park
First time listening to this in full since my teen years. Forgot that literally every song on here is a heater. The hits are great, but I had forgotten about all the in-between songs that also hold their own. The dual vocals, catchy hooks, chunky breakdowns, angst filled lyrics. It's all so good. No skips. Favourite Tracks: - All of them.
Master of Reality (2014 Remaster)
Black Sabbath
Some great groovy metal tracks here, as Sabbath pump out great tunes without the album ever dragging. Great highlights but a couple of skips hold it back. Favorite Tracks: - Sweet Leaf - After Forever - Children Of The Grave - Lord Of This World - Into The Void
Reject 2
Conway the Machine
Starts and ends quite strong, but the middle section is a bit samey for my taste. It all still goes pretty hard, but some of it is just a bit unmemorable. The highlights are good though. I like Conways cadence and fairly nonchalant flows, paired with his dgaf attitude. Not big on a few of the features though. Favourite Tracks: - 1000 Corpses - Blakk Tape - Air Holez - Salute Me
You Can't Kill God With Bullets
Conway the Machine
Consistent, but missing the edge of his earlier records. It's a good listen through but there isn't too much that stands out and demands a relisten. Still, he keeps the bars coming and the beat selection is good. I think the fat could've been trimmed here to make a more succinct album. Favourite Tracks: - Nu Devils - Otis Driftwood - Attached
Diamond Eyes
Deftones
Better Than I Remember. My first time listening to this, probably since my early 20s. This album rules. The heavy riffs, the ethereal vocals, the screaming, it all goes together so well. This album also hosts one of my favorite songs of all time in Sextape, which I really think should have been the closer. Favourite Tracks: - Diamond Eyes - Royal - CMND/CTRL - You've Seen The Butcher - Beauty School - Rocket Skates - Sextape*
Saturday Night Wrist
Deftones
More good stuff from Deftones here. A bit more of a mixed bag here but the continue honing their signature shoegaze/metal sound. But my god, pink cellphone really is as bad as they say! Favourite Tracks: - Hole In The Earth - Rapture - Cherry Waves - Xerces - Riviére
Everybody Is F.O.O.D.
Conway the Machine
Worth a 10/10 for the Booker T sample alone. Conway maintains his streak of solid albums, with another swagger filled collection of raps over cold beats. Some welcome features on this track list as well. Favourite Tracks: - Slapbox - Piper - Land O' Lakes - Sigel In State Prop
Blakk Tape
Conway the Machine
A good follow up to Reject 2, Conway keeps consistent with this release. Keeping it brief and relitively simple, Conway narrates his way through a small solid collection of dark grimey tunes. The only dud being the unnecessary Randy Savage DA skit. Favourite Tracks: - Devils Work - 8 Birds - Pavement
Minutes to Midnight
Linkin Park
A very frontloaded album here, with all the 'singles' coming one after the other to start. The back half of this album is forgettable and not really worth revisiting. The hits do hit hard though and are worth replaying over and over. Favourite Tracks: - Given Up - Leave Out All The Rest - Bleed It Out - Shadow Of The Day - What I've Done - No More Sorrow
From Zero
Linkin Park
Better than expected. New vocalist is pretty damn good, and I can image her covering the classics quite well. There's a few bangers throughout this brief runtime as well. It's hard to escape the shadow ast over this band, but on its own merits it's not half bad. Favourite Tracks: - Heavy Is The Crown - Two Faced - IGYEIH
God Hates Us All
Slayer
Decent thrash / nu metal combination here. Loses steam towards the back end, and doesn't match their earlier output but there's still a lot to like here. Favourite Tracks: - Disciple - God Send Death - New Faith - Bloodline - Here Comes the Pain
Urban Discipline
Biohazard
Decent but over-long HC album here. The some heaters on here for sure, but not enough variety to warrant a near hour long album for me. Still, the Hardcore/hip hop blend works well and there's some groovy riffs throughout. Favourite Tracks: - Chamber Spins Three - Punishment - Shades of Gray - Tears of Blood
Caught Stealing (The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack - Extended Remix Edition)
IDLES, Rob Simonsen, Caught Stealing Movie
Hard to rate this once, as it's mostly a compilation of instrumentals and ambient tracks. There are some more traditional Idles style bops on here though and they are enjoyable. Still, it's rad to see Idles curating a soundtrack for what ended up being one of my top movies of the year in 'Caught Stealing'. Favourite Tracks: - Doom - Cheerleader - Police & Thieves - Rabbit Run - Rabbit Run (Nick Zinner Remix)
Damnation
Opeth
Great album here. Smooth instrumentals, with a subdued Akerfeldt on vocals this time around. Album breezes by, with a shorter run time than usual. The songs are still long but nothing outstays it's welcome, only wish the album ended a bit stronger. Favourite Tracks: - Windowpane - In My Time Of Need - Hope Leaves - To Rid The Disease
Getting Killed
Geese
Not really my flavour unfortunately. Some of the instrumentals are nice, and everything has a quirky Talking Heads vibe to it. But I just found the vocals quite grating. Not something I see myself coming back to. Favourite Tracks: - Taxes
HEAVY JELLY
SOFT PLAY
Slaves 'comeback' album after rebranding themselves as Soft Play. Whatever you think about the name change, you can't deny this album holds up well within their catalogue. Yes some of the lyrics are a bit corny but the track list here plays out largely tongue-in-cheek and full of character as you expect from these guys. Great energy, heavy riffs, great stuff. Favourite Tracks: - Punk's Dead - Isaac Is Typing - John Wick - Mirror Muscles - Everything and Nothing
Social Distortion
Social Distortion
An okay punk album, that gets a little samey down the stretch. Still, it contains 'Story of my Life' which is an all timer for me so there's that. Favourite Tracks: - Story of my Life - Ball and Chain
Nonstop Feeling
Turnstile
Solid Hardcore album. Turnstile again keeps it brief with some rapid-fire tunes, churning out some groovy riffs and energetic vocals. Not as experimental as later releases of theirs, with this one keeping it relatively simple and rockin'. Favourite Tracks: - Gravity - Fazed Out - Bad Wave - Out Of Rage - Stress
Change The Way You Think About Pain
Incendiary
Incredible hardcore punk album. Riffs and breakdowns kick ass throughout this album. The RATM inspired vocals sound great over these crushing instrumentals as well. Fairly standard 'call to arms' lyrics, but with great energy and some anthemic, catchy hooks. No skips. Favourite Tracks: - Bite The Hook - Echo Of Nothing - Lie Of Liberty - Rats In The Cellar - Change The Way You Think About Pain
Time & Space
Turnstile
Short and sweet. Turnstile keeps it brief with this album, with most songs clocking under 2 and a half minutes. They pack in some good tunes with the classic fun riffs you expect from turnstile. They would go on to do better, but this is still a fun album with some bangers littered throughout. Favourite Tracks: - Real Thing - Big Smile - Generator - I Don't Wanna Be Blind - Lost Another Peice of My World - Can't Get Away - Come Back For More - Time + Space
Deftones
Deftones
Feels a little directionless and toothless when compared to their previous efforts. But even a lesser Deftones album is still a great album, just not one I will return to as often as White Pony, Diamond Eyes or Around The Fur. Favourite Tracks: - Hexagram - Needles and Pins - Minerva - When Girls Telephone Boys - Battle-axe - Bloody Cape
As Daylight Dies
Killswitch Engage
Excellent metalcore album here. Great riffs that force you to bob your head along, great range on the vocals, and generally good straight-forward songwriting. Great stuff. Favourite Tracks: - Daylight Dies - This Is Absolution - My Curse - For You - Still Beats Your Name - Eye Of The Storm
Sacrament (15th Anniversary Edition)
Lamb of God
A slight step down from their previous album, with a few songs sounding a bit samey. The riffs still crush, with good solos, sick drum work and some catchy vocals as well. Solid stuff. Favourite Tracks: - Walk With Me In Hell - Again We Rise - Redneck - Pathetic - Blacken the Cursed Sun - Forgotten (Lost Angels)
Vol. 4 (2021 Remaster)
Black Sabbath
In my opinion, a noticeable step down from their previous 3 albums. Lyrics and instrumentals are less memorable and/or hard-hitting, and the album as a whole feels fairly unfocused. Not bad by any stretch, but definitely not my go-to Sabbath album. Favourite Tracks: - Wheels of Confusion / The Straightener - Changes - Snowblind - Cornucopia - Under the Sun / Every Day Comes and Goes
White Pony
Deftones
This seems to be the moment everyone realized Deftones were the real deal. As a whole I think this album is a (very) slight step back from Around The fur, but the peaks are higher. A few songs here remain Deftones best, and continue to be timeless. Favorite Tracks: - Back to School - Digital Bath - Elite - Rx Queen - Teenager - Knife Prty - Korea - Passenger - Change (In The House of Flies)
Around the Fur
Deftones
Incredible album, one of their best. Improves on everything from the first album, with improved song writing, chubbier riffs, improved vocals and a more focused sound. Favourite Tracks: - My Own Summer - Lhabia - Mascara - Rick's - Be Quiet and Drive - Lotion - Headup
Adrenaline
Deftones
A solid debut, and a good hint of things to come. Deftones come out the gate here with a raw, low fi, aggressive alternative/nu metal album that hits more than it misses. Obviously not their best work, but very good for a debut from a band still finding their sound. Favourite Tracks: - Bored - Minus Blindfold - Nosebleed - Root - 7 Words - Birthmark - Engine No. 9 - Fireal
I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love
My Chemical Romance
Rough around the edges, but I like the energy and angst in this album. This album has a much more manic, raw feel than their subsequent albums and it works to varying degrees. Favourite Tracks: - Honey, This Mirror Isn't Big Enough for the Two of Us - Skylines and Turnstiles - Early Sunsets Over Monroeville - Demolition Lovers
Welfare Jazz
Viagra Boys
Not my favourite VB album, but even at their 'worst' the boys show more creativity and character than most others in the rock world at the moment. Electronic/disco infused post-punk with great rolling grooves and the usual brand of slurring, crooning vocals. Favourite Tracks: - Ain't Nice - Creatures - 6 Shooter - Secret Canine Agent - I Feel Alive
Warning
Green Day
This is okay. They combine their pop punk sound with shades of folk, and hints of the rock opera sound they would go all the way with in American Idiot. The result is a bit of a mixed bag. Some bouncy, catchy tunes but nothing that really stands out for me. Favorite Tracks: - Warning - Castaway - Deadbeat Holiday - Minority
GNX
Kendrick Lamar
Great album that has aged well since the dust has settled from Kendricks big year last year. Full with great lyricism, catchy hooks, quotable one-liners and great beats. I also loved the relatively unknown (to me) features on here. Banger album. Favourite Tracks: - wacced out murals - squabble up - luther - hey now - tv off - peekaboo - heart pt. 6 - gnx - gloria
Let God Sort Em Out
Clipse, Pusha T, Malice
Great album here. Great beats, great bars, great features, doesn't overstay its welcome. The only thing holding this back from 5 stars are the frequent Pharrell verses/hooks, I could've let one slide but there's like 3 songs here with his average vocals on them. Push is creat as always, I've always enjoyed his cadence. Malice is new to me but he pulled his weight as well. Great stuff. Favourite Tracks: - Chains & Whips - P.O.V. - Ace Trumpets - M.T.B.T.T.F. - F.I.C.O. - Inglorious Bastards
Where You Want To Be
Taking Back Sunday
Good enough album here, but is noticeably front loaded. The first half goes pretty hard, but then is brought down by a bit of filler towards the end. The hits here are pop punk classics though, and even average TBS songs are better than most in the genre. Favorite Tracks: - Set Phasers to Stun - Bonus Mosh Pt II - A Decade Under The Influence - This Photograph Is Proof - The Union - Slowdance On The Inside
Lust For Life
Iggy Pop
An okay album, that is missing the raw punk sound of Pop's earlier releases. Also a few too many references to young girls littered throughout. Favourite Tracks: - Lust For Life - The Passenger - Neighborhood Threat - Fall In Love With Me
American Idiot
Green Day
A pop punk classic, but looking back this album is very front-loaded. The hits are great as are some of the b-sides, but there is some forgettable moments on the back half of this. Still, a fun listen and likely Green Days peak. Favourite Tracks: - American Idiot - Jesus of Suburbia - Holiday / Boulevard of Broken Dreams - Give Me Novacaine / She's A Rebel - Letterbomb - Wake Me Up When September Ends
Chaos A.D.
Sepultura
Killer album with some great thrash/groove tunes on here. Sepulturas best sound is on this album in my opinion, with Max sounding better than ever, great riffs and crushing breakdowns. Favourite Tracks: - Refuse/Resist - Territory - Slave New World - Propaganda - Nomad - Manifest - Clenched Fist
Paranoid (Remaster)
Black Sabbath
Another collection of stellar songs here, as Sabbath fine tune their sound a bit and adds some polish. The result is some of their most popular songs, and some of my personal favorites. Great stuff. Favourite Tracks: - War Pigs - Paranoid - Planet Caravan - Iron Man - Electric Funeral - Hand Of Doom
Black Sabbath (2014 Remaster)
Black Sabbath
This album rips, may end up becoming a 10/10 for me in retrospect. Heavy, groovy and I'm sure groundbreaking at the time. Favourite Tracks: - Black Sabbath - The Wizard - Behind The Wall Of Sleep - N.I.B - Evil Woman, Don't Play Your Games With Me - Warning
4:44
JAŸ-Z
Never been the biggest Jay-Z fan, but this one was pretty good. Sill some corny and awkward lines scattered throughout ("what's better than one billionaire? Two" 🤮), but there's also some great introspective songs on here that makes it worth a listen. Favourite Tracks: - Kill Jay Z - The Story of O.J. - Caught Their Eyes - 4:44 - Legacy