MetalMatters: The Best Metal Albums of April 2026
In April’s nest metal, Iron Firmament return to lo-fi, Cascadian alchemy, Lividus set up progressive foundations, and Evil Warriors reach new heights.
Lists
These lists highlight the best in music, film, books, television, and games.
Where Should Billy Joel Sit at the Pop Rock Table?
Inconsistent in his music and notoriously ornery, it’s difficult to figure out where, amongst his contemporaries, to seat Billy Joel at the Pop Rock table. We give it a try.
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ElectroMatters: Best Electronic Music of March 2026
Whether you’re looking for addictive synthpop, dreamy techno, or hypnotic drone, you’ll find something to love on these 12 best electronic releases.
10 Synthwave and Ambient Songs for Swimming
Paired with the proper music—synthwave and ambient electronic tracks—our next visit to the pool can transcend exercise into a meditative reconnection with embodiment.
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MetalMatters: The Best Metal Albums of March 2026
In March’s best metal, Neurosis make their surprising return, Bekor Qilish descend to extreme avant-garde paths, and Cruel Force mature their thrash.
The Best Performances of 2026’s Love Rocks NYC
Love Rocks NYC promised an all-star lineup, one that wouldn’t have been out of place at Newport Folk, performing for nearly four hours.
ElectroMatters: The Best Electronic Music of February 2026
Whatever flavor of electro music you prefer, you’re likely to find something among the best electronic music of February 2026.
10 Writers Remaking African Literature in 2026
The writers demanding our attention in 2026 interrogate power, dissect masculinity, and insist on joy in their works of satire, sorcery, and secrets from Africa and the Diaspora.
MetalMatters: The Best Metal Albums of February 2026
In February’s best metal, Worm go from underground to mainstream, Incandescence unleash blackened Quebecois bliss, and Gorrch offer dissonance and immediacy.
5 of the Most Unintentionally Terrifying Love Songs
From Van Halen to Dean Martin, some of the world’s most beloved love songs are actually hideously sinister when you dig just below the surface.
10 Should-Be-Classic Anxious Love Songs
Anxious love songs typically involve conflict—around unrequited passion, cheating, or loss—where the singer often feels something unresolved.
My Most Anticipated Films of 2026
As surely as “Dumpuary January” follows the fall awards season, a new year brings a slew of anticipated films. If the industry is in trouble, nobody has told these directors.