Pulp Are at Their Mythopoetic Best on ‘More’
Far more than the themes of aging, sex, and loss, Pulp’s More straight-facedly spreads the word of love and it is the start of something new—a rebirth.
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Pulp Re-emerge with the Disappointing ‘More’
What Pulp haven’t lost is their innate Englishness: ballads recall grocery shops, summer festivals, and farmers’ markets, but the results are disappointing.
The 12 Best Brian Wilson Songs
From massive hits to experimental pop compositions, Brian Wilson’s music is always thoughtful, idiosyncratic, and as thrilling today as it was in the 1960s.
Peaceful Faces Explore Folk and Chamber Pop on Spectacular LP
Irresistible hooks and cunning arrangements abound on Peaceful Faces’ new record led by singer-songwriter Tree Palmedo.
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Roxy Music and the Birth of Sophisti-Pop: ‘Flesh + Blood’ at 45
While their penultimate studio album never garnered significant acclaim, Roxy Music’s Flesh + Blood is a moody, influential gem and vastly underrated.
Sparks Refuse to Sit on Their Laurels with ‘Mad!’
Sparks maintain a sophistication that stands up with older work, complete with a production sheen, giving their idiosyncratic backdrop a contemporary flavor.
The Convenience Supercharge the Amps on Rocking LP
The Convenience’s Like Cartoon Vampire sees the New Orleans post-punk duo abandoning synthpop for a more primal rock sound.
Matron Deliver an Exciting Exercise in Math Rock
Matron’s Sunken State is such an enjoyable ride. It combines math rock’s complex, zig-zagging musical avenues with dream pop and plenty of good hooks.
The Ophelias Outdo Themselves on the Brilliant ‘Spring Grove’
The Ophelias sound like they are just getting to their best work on Spring Grove, and it is thrilling to hear them push themselves to new heights.
Black Country New Road’s New LP Skews Refreshingly Feminine
Black Country New Road’s new LP embraces ornate baroque pop, shifting from raw intensity to intricate melancholy. Brilliant yet overstuffed, it rewards patience.
Yes’ Close to the Edge Appears in a New Super Deluxe Edition
Yes’ Close to the Edge remains a progressive rock landmark, but Rhino’s new Super Deluxe Edition does little to further that legacy.
The 10 Best Wilco Songs From Their First Era
Wilco are always full of surprises. Their lineup has changed frequently and reveals a group constantly pushing themselves into uncharted musical territory.