The Messthetics and James Brandon Lewis Create Ecstatic Post-Hardcore Jazz
The Messthetics and James Brandon Lewis make fearless and non-smooth fusion with the clarity and dynamism of “post-hardcore” that wasn’t around in the 1970s.
Music Reviews
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.
Fågelle Finds Melancholy Release in Glorious Gloom
Glorious gloom permeates the musical catalogue of Swedish singer-songwriter Fågelle, and her album Bränn min jord overflows with it.
Armbruster Gleefully Confounds Expectations, Again
Connor Armbruster is not only a brilliant musician but a refreshingly restless one Half My House is a unique and tuneful spin on traditional Irish music
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.
Shane Parish Recontextualizes Techno on Ingenious LP
Shane Parish thrives on conceiving projects that seem contradictory and overly challenging, yet come off as effortless and innovative.
Mavis Staples Comforts and Galvanizes in Pennsylvania
Legendary soul singer Mavis Staples draws on classics, old and new, to deliver her own State of the Union address. Her message is more relevant and urgent than ever.
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.
Cyril Neville and King Youngblood Serve Up Inspiring Gumbo
This is a big year for Cyril Neville and King Youngblood, a bonus for music fans who appreciate artists who use their talents to speak out and inspire social change.
Tōth Finds the Clarity of His ‘Voice’ Through Constraint
Tōth’s And the Voice Said refines his knack for balancing introspection, pop warmth, and unresolved inner tension.
William Clark Green Sings About Good Ol’ Texas
Watterson Hall offers a glimpse into the mythical Texas that many consider their rightful heritage. William Clark Green personifies a good ol’ boy without stereotypes.
Jackie West Expands the Strengths of Her Brilliant Debut
Jackie West grows from her immensely satisfying debut album into a follow-up that sees her taking chances while writing beautiful, emotionally striking music.