SPRINTS’ New LP ‘Swimming’ Reaches for the Stars
SPRINTS remain emotive but more polished and reflective, questioning rather than acting—though often admitting defeat as the songs grow louder.
sub pop
Wolf Parade’s 2005 Debut Is Still a Revelation
Montreal band Wolf Parade’s haphazard formation and instant momentum yielded their most captivating work, including what would become their defining anthem.
Nation of Language Create a ‘Dance Called Memory’
Dance Called Memory is something of a pivotal album in its own modest way. It’s Nation of Language’s most introspective and darkest record.
Guerilla Toss Capture an Essence with ‘You’re Weird Now’
Guerilla Toss excel in portraying a tangible connection between band and listener, cutting through the prism of pretence for something more instantaneous.
Lael Neale Delivers Lo-Fi Songs in Her Unique Style
Lael Neale delivers her near-apocalyptic songs with eloquence and sangfroid. If this record is Neale bidding adieu to Los Angeles, then it is an unforgettable farewell.
Tunde Adebimpe’s Rare Talent Comes Into Sharp Focus
While still discovering his individual identity, TV on the Radio frontman Tunde Adebimpe offers plenty to consider about the human condition along the way.
Soundgarden Were Popular Heroes of the Video Game Age
Screaming Life was the authentic sound of grunge and set Soundgarden on course to become the Led Zeppelin of the video game age.
Father John Misty Beautifully Chronicles Our Messed-Up World
Father John Misty has come as close to perfecting his artistry as anyone can. Mahashmashana is a masterpiece of exceptional songwriting and performance.
Girl and Girl’s Debut ‘Call a Doctor’ Is a Lively Outing
Girl and Girl’s Call a Doctor nearly delivers as a concept yet still captivates with its jangle pop charm. They should be a band we follow for years to come.
Amen Dunes Dabbles in Electronics But Delivers Human Connection
Death Jokes finds Amen Dunes tackling big issues and exploring influences from his youth, but the connection with his listeners still creates deeper meaning.
Iron & Wine Take a Mature Approach to ‘Light Verse’
A mix of mature realism and lingering hope gives Iron & Wine’s Light Verse its heart. Sam Beam only needs to search for sweetness when it’s hidden.
Shabazz Palaces Resist Profiling on Elusive ‘Exotic Birds of Prey’
Following Robed in Rareness from last fall, Shabazz Palaces continues a provisional series with the cryptic and digressive Exotic Birds of Prey.