Snail Mail’s ‘Ricochet’ Trades Urgency for Atmosphere
Snail Mail’s Ricochet trades sharp emotion for hazy atmosphere, exploring time, loss, and distance in a lush but occasionally drifting evolution.
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Kim Gordon Is at the Height of Her Powers on ‘Play Me’
Indie rock icon Kim Gordon acerbically wrestles with the state of the world over hip-hop and industrial beats on Play Me.
David Byrne Gets the Flavors Right on ‘Who Is the Sky?’
David Byrne’s latest album showcases his abilities as a top-rate popsmith, highlighting a work that is both commercially and colorfully appealing.
Lifeguard Are Ready-Made for Critical Adoration
Every so often, a band like Lifeguard appear and aren’t experimental, but flaunt their impeccable influences in a way that’s so brash and confident.
The Anti- SXSW: A Festival for the Disheveled at Couch By Couchwest
A no-cost counterpoint to SXSW one can enjoy at their leisure, Couch By Couchwest is a festival where the beer is cheaper and the only hipster is you.
Mogwai’s ‘Mr. Beast’ Might Eat You Alive
Mr Beast isn’t colossus. It’s one of the “smallest” records that Mogwai have ever made. Its songs are not epic, its finales are not grand, and its formulas do not deviate.