Finn Wolfhard’s Sophomore Album Is an Off-the-Cuff Blockbuster
On Fire From the Hip, Finn Wolfhard builds on the 1970s rock-inspired palette of his debut, modernizing the record with clever cultural allusions.
Matthew Dwyer
Matthew Dwyer recently graduated from American University in Washington, D.C. He currently works in education and writes about pop culture, music, TV, and film on the side.
Ryan Beatty Refines a Musical Language on ‘Sweet Fortune’
Country music may go in and out of style, but on Sweet Fortune, Ryan Beatty employs songwriting foundations that transcend genre.
Olivia Rodrigo Survives a Cruel Endeavor
Pivoting from the 2000s-inspired sound of her first two albums, Olivia Rodrigo’s third record uses 1980s synths to reckon with heartbreak.
Niall Horan Serves a Familiar Dish on ‘Dinner Party’
While it includes some fresh autobiographical details, Niall Horan’s Dinner Party is a rehash of boy band tropes.
Malcolm Todd Has a Vision for the Future of Pop
On Do That Again, Malcolm Todd turns personal misadventures into psychedelic jams, proving his singular vision for the future of pop.
For Bleachers, the Past Is Prologue
On his fifth album as Bleachers, everyone for ten minutes, Jack Antonoff uses a comfortable sonic space to make a new statement about fame.
RAYE’s Meaningful Maximalism
By repurposing sounds of a bygone era, Raye reminds us that the past’s freedoms are the constraints of the future. The only consistency is the desire to make art about them.
Maya Hawke’s Path to Contentment
On Maitreya Corso, Maya Hawke continues to prove her adeptness as a musician and observer of human behavior, rendering allegations of nepotism irrelevant.
Charlie Puth Embraces Change on ‘Whatever’s Clever’
On Whatever’s Clever!, Charlie Puth diversifies his musical references, but muddles the appeal of his persona.
Harry Styles Negotiates With Stardom on Fourth Album
Harry Styles negotiates with style and substance on his fourth album, reminding listeners why he long ago transcended heartthrob status.
The Complacent Bliss of Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars’ fourth solo album, The Romantic, is as impeccably crafted as ever, but says nothing new about his place in the world of pop.
Mitski Disappears with Grace on Eighth Album
On her eighth album, Nothing’s About to Happen to Me, singer-songwriter Mitski employs a country-folk sound to reflect the peace found in isolation.