Sigrid - Sucker Punch (Album Review)

For an artist, their music is their therapy. The harshest realities or the sweetest memories become their songs, and their emotions are the words that feed them. For Norwegian synthpop singer Sigrid, that is everything. Sigrid’s debut album Sucker Punch is a testament to her courage, painting dynamic and powerful images of the most important parts of her life.

Sigrid’s personality is the lifeline of this record, and the importance of that is evident right from the start with opening track ‘Sucker Punch.’ The album’s title track is punchy and engaging, bringing lots of energy and a sense of determination along with it as Sigrid revels in the joy of being in love. Similarly uplifting moments are present throughout the record, to make sure that Sigrid’s message of living life is not lost on a single person. ‘Sight Of You‘ is another sweet song with an uplifting instrumental, while ‘Basic‘ does all the same with a poppier punch to it. The punchy element to many of the songs, like ‘Strangers,’ helps keep their drive up and the album pushing ahead.

There’s more than just optimism and hope in Sucker Punch. The very musicality of the record goes hand in hand with the themes of love, relationships, and acceptance on the record. The melodies shine and soar throughout the record, especially captivating in songs like ‘Don’t Feel Like Crying‘ and the stripped down ‘In Vain,’ where Sigrid truly let’s go of all the weight she’s held on to and roars to life. Closing track ‘Dynamite‘ ends the record similarly softly, though the beautiful yet fragile song does end the record on a bit of a somber note. It’s only fitting, though, that with tracks like ‘Mine Right Now‘ being all about living in the moment making up the rest of the album, that the record should end more reflectively.

Sigrid comes to terms with the present in her debut album Sucker Punch, reveling in the beauty and pain of life with a curious but understanding nature. Sigrid does on her debut what many can’t do in a career: express herself and her personality wholly and with perfect pop appeal. This album is as intimate as it gets, but all the same feels larger than life.

Favorite Tracks: In Vain, Sucker Punch, Dynamite, Never Mine

Least Favorite Track: Level Up

Rating: 91 / 100

Stream or buy Sucker Punch on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Foals - Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost - Part 1

No bands have the same style or sound as Foals, and their new effort only affirms that their throne in indie rock will not be contested. Foals explores electronica and fuses it with their homegrown indie sound in their eclectic new record Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost - Part 1.

It’s apparent right from the start that Foals are at the top of their game. ‘Moonlight‘ enchantingly opens Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost - Part 1 with a hypnotizing atmosphere and enchanting sound, capturing your attention from the very first seconds. Foals do not let go of this engagement, keeping listeners both energized and captured in atmosphere: with tracks like ‘Exits‘ bringing big energy and punchy groove with crystalline synths bringing the record drive, songs like the growing ‘Sunday‘ aim to build an atmosphere that captures the listener, done so through the track’s indie beginnings morphing into an electronic end. The dreamy ‘I’m Down With The World (& It’s Done With Me)‘ ends the record as enchantingly as it began, as if the record’s story is fading out into finality (despite a follow-up record expected to come this autumn).

There’s more to Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost than just invigorating atmospheres. There are plenty of jams to go around on the record, and Foals know how to keep pushing ahead with tracks like these. The quick but bright ‘White Onions‘ adds a nice warmth to the record early on, before the funky, cool build of ‘In Degrees‘ spices up the middle of the record. The demanding bassline of ‘Syrups‘ promises an explosive end, before the punchy forward drive of ‘On The Luna‘ keeps the record moving forward. Even some of the more experimental tracks, like ‘Cafe D’Athens‘ offer a cool groove even when Foals are dealing with more scathing sounds.

Foals proves their place in indie rock with their eclectic new record Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost - Part I, wholly tying electronica into their signature indie atmosphere. Foals continue to evolve and flourish with every new record, and this one is only the next successful chapter in the series. A sequel to the album is expected in the fall, and with how big this record is, there’s a lot of pressure on Foals’ plate. Knowing them, however, there shouldn’t have to be any worry.

Favorite Tracks: Syrups, Sunday, In Degrees

Least Favorite Track: Surf, Pt. 1

Rating: 77 / 100

Stream or buy Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost - Part 1 on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Best Of February 2019

2019 is continuing to barrel down with powerful records and songs being released every week. January saw the likes of Bring Me The Horizon to American Football unleashing new music to the masses, and February was no different. Here are our favorite selections from February 2019.

Broods - Don’t Feed The Pop Monster

When recording their new album, Broods set out on a mission: to offer the most pure and honest experience they could. Their third studio record Don’t Feed The Pop Monster is just that. Indie pop textures meet Broods’ personalities, tracks such as the dejected opener ‘Sucker‘ and the curious ‘Why Do You Believe Me?‘ adding character to the record. The creative liberties Broods take really amplify the record: indie anthem ‘Peach‘ adds climactic determination in the face of despair, while ‘To Belong‘ brings a driving downbeat and a unique atmosphere that perfectly complements the darkness of ‘Everytime You Go.’ Broods approaches their sincerest emotions in a calculated and dynamic matter, making Don’t Feed The Pop Monster such an effective album.

Favorite Tracks: Peach, To Belong, Everytime You Go, Why Do You Believe Me? Least Favorite Track: Hospitalized Rating: 79 / 100

Boy Harsher - Careful

Nostalgia is a powerful tool in music, yet its possibilities are seemingly endless. Massachusetts duo Boy Harsher‘s modern take on 80s new wave in their sophomore release Careful certainly sees nostalgia used in a unique way. ‘Face The Fire‘ perfectly captures the band’s goals with this record, showing their prowess of the 80s aesthetic while still delivering drama and drive all the same. Careful is generally dark, Boy Harsher diving into some of the more sensual, serious sides of life with opener ‘Keep Driving‘ and ‘Come Closer.’ Despite this, Boy Harsher sound alive in their music, punchier and fun tracks like ‘LA‘ and ‘Lost‘ showing that they’re ready for adventure, and even more ready to face the world with their music.

Favorite Tracks: LA, Face The Fire, Tears, Keep Driving Least Favorite Track: Fate Rating: 82 / 100

Said The Whale - Cascadia

Life throws new problems at us every day, and it can be hard to keep up with it all. Luckily, Said The Whale have provided the perfect soundtrack to face life with optimism and energy with their new record Cascadia. With warm, energetic tracks like ‘Wake Up‘ and ‘Shame‘ to boot, Said The Whale approach the difficulties of everyday life with hope and hopefully inspire you to do the same. There are plenty of sides to the record that keep things fresh and unique, while still relatable: sweeter tracks including ‘Love Don’t Ask‘ and ‘Old Soul, Young Heart‘ tell more romantic stories, while title track ‘Cascadia‘ and ‘UnAmerican‘ have a punkier, call-to-arms attitude. The record ends with the beautifully building ‘Moonlight,’ the track beginning dejectedly before growing wonderfully by the end. Whether it’s been a long day or a tough period in life, Said The Whale will give you the energy to push ahead.

Favorite Tracks: Wake Up; Moonlight; Old Soul, Young Heart Least Favorite Track: Love Always Rating: 77 / 100

Copeland - Blushing

The only way to really describe the sound of Copeland‘s new record Blushing is as a dream. A euphoric, introspective, reflective dream. Ethereal synths and crystalline vocals embody Blushing, atmosphere and melodies combining in perfect ways throughout the record, from the beautiful ‘Lay Here‘ to the blissful climax that is ‘Waltz On Water.’ Giant atmospheres seem to consume you in their grandiose, wrapping you into tracks like ‘Colorless‘ and the slow introductory track ‘Pope.’ The amount of heartbreak and hope that goes into every track on Blushing makes every track an emotional masterpiece: ‘Strange Flower‘ tells a pained story, where its chorus explains “Every time you see her now you drift off... All at once you're overcome, you get lost... In an endless spin you're only looking for her,“ though the dreamy jazz of ‘Suddenly‘ return to a sense of wonder that propel you deeper into an emotional abyss. Blushing is the encapsulation of Copeland’s deepest hopes, dreams, and emotions, presented in a beautiful, uncompromising form.

Favorite Tracks: Colorless, On Your Worst Day, Waltz On Water, Strange Flower, Suddenly Least Favorite Track: It Felt So Real Rating: 97 / 100

Dream Theater - Distance Over Time

Few bands can claim as notable a throne as progressive rock legends Dream Theater can. Between massive concept albums and even bigger tracks, Dream Theater have risen to every occasion. The band step away from the complexities of their more conceptual records and focus more on delivering energy in the ways they know how to in their new record Distance Over Time. Dream Theater dig deep into their heavier side on this record, delivering massive tracks in the form of bustling drums, massive riffs, and larger than life vocals. ‘Room 137‘ and ‘Paralyzed‘ wholly embody this energy, exploding with riffs and power, while tracks like ‘S2n‘ are almost ridiculously powerful and electrifying. Though the focus isn’t necessarily on structure or complexity, Dream Theater don’t mind experimenting with different sounds to achieve different moods. The uplifting instrumental ‘Barstool Warrior‘ is in stark comparison with the dark opener ‘Untethered Angel,’ which also differs from the multi-parted ‘Fall Into The Light.’ Distance Over Time goes to show that even when they’re not attempting to dazzle with their prowess, Dream Theater can’t help but deliver a massive, engaging effort.

With February behind us, it’s time to keep looking ahead for timeless new records. Let us know what albums you are most looking forward to coming out in the following months, and what you’re favorite records of February were!

Previous 2019 Lists:

Best Of January 2019

Gesaffelstein - Hyperion (Album Review)

If you weren’t paying attention, then you might have missed Gesaffelstein‘s triumphant rise to fame over the last year. The electronic and pop producer is now here with a new record, keeping true to his signature sound. Gesaffelstein comfortably experiments in his new album Hyperion, with big collaborations and plenty of vibes to spare.

Gesaffelstein appeals to no one and everyone in Hyperion. Most numbers are more complex and experimental, elements of house, industrial, ambient, electronica, and more coming together in these interesting and subtle ways. The more aggressive and punchy tones of ‘Reset‘ speak towards a more industrial, EDM style beat with its drama and atmosphere, while the dark atmosphere and melodies of ‘Memora‘ engulf you in some abyssal darkness. A fully experimental vibe is channeled in ‘Forever‘ with The Hacker and Electric Youth, the three artists all pitching their individual styles into one melting pot of a track. Closing track ‘Humanity Gone‘ is as avant garde as it gets, the ten minute piece slowly evolving through different ambient soundscapes.

As experimental as Hyperion may seem, there is an accessible way about it. One such way are the giant collaborations on the record. Enter the dark sensual vibe of ‘Lost In The City,’ The Weeknd providing his crystalline voice over the endless atmosphere that Gesaffelstein creates. Pharrell Williams helps add the glamour and funk to ‘Blast Off,’ bringing the perfect amount of drive and catchiness to the track with his signature style. HAIM even guests on the record, providing haunting vocals for the chill but dark ‘So Bad.’ Even some of the less accessible tracks have hints of catchiness to them: title track ‘Hyperion‘ opens the record with a sweet and bright start that envelops you, preparing you for all yet to come.

Gesaffelstein experiments comfortably in Hyperion, his new record that shows his limitlessness. It’s not a particularly climactic record, but it creates an atmosphere that you can’t help but find your way into exploring. He captures a world and takes you into it.

Favorite Tracks: Blast Off, So Bad

Least Favorite Track: Forever

Rating: 76 / 100

Stream or buy Hyperion on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Juice WRLD - Death Race For Love (Album Review)

Through the plethora of trap rappers and soul singers comes music’s best culmination of both sides: Juice WRLD. Juice WRLD keeps things safe but catchy in his sophomore record Death Race For Love.

Juice WRLD is a different breed from the rest of his trap peers. Rather than jumping on the “I’m famous and I’m rich” train, Juice WRLD opts to be a normal person on this record. That allows for Death Race For Love to be an actually fun record. Care-free, relatable, yet still fittingly rambunctious songs like ‘Ring Ring‘ featuring Clever and ‘The Bees Knees‘ really add a sense of character and freedom to the record, especially as Juice WRLD discusses themes and ideas that the average person could embrace. Juice WRLD keeps things going from the very start right to the end, opening track ‘Empty‘ beginning the record nicely with some solid energy while ‘Make Believe‘ closes things off with catchy melodies and a chill vibe. Other tracks, like ‘Hear Me Calling‘ and ‘Flaws and Sins,‘ are a bit more basic and pop-oriented, but their nice melodies carry them through and keep them fun.

Though Death Race For Love certainly hits the nail on the head as far as catchiness and themes go, it does come with a slew of its own problems. One problem is it’s long tracklist. With over 20 songs and clocking in at an hour and twelve minutes long, it’s hard to deliver bangers while still trying to move things forward. There aren’t many inherently bad tracks, yet some like ‘Out My Way‘ clearly don’t meet the same standard as other tracks. Juice WRLD mostly does a good job at balancing the poppier tracks with the dynamic ones, with sweeter songs like ‘HeMotions‘ and ‘Fast‘ existing in harmony with more aggressive tracks like ‘Syphilis‘ and ‘ Big.’ For the most part, however, Juice WRLD at least meets the standard for what this record should be, never drifting too far off the desired path.

Juice WRLD balances character with accessibility in his sophomore record Death Race For Love, appealing to his listeners by diving into more human concepts and themes. Juice WRLD is just another one of us doing what he loves, and that’s apparent in his music. You can’t help but enjoy it to some degree because of that.

Favorite Track: The Bees Knees

Least Favorite Track: Out My Way

Rating: 70 / 100

Stream or buy Death Race For Love on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Mark Morton - Anesthetic (Album Review)

Lamb Of God guitarist Mark Morton has slowly but surely been cooking up his debut solo record for a few years now, making sure it was as massive as fans would want. The day has come, and his solo album is defying all boundaries. Mark Morton’s debut solo album Anesthetic brings together some of rock and metal’s finest to deliver a powerful, diverse, and jamming listen.

Morton only settles for the best in Anesthetic, and that’s evident right from the start. The massive ‘Cross Off‘ introduces the record, with the late Linkin Park vocalist Chester Bennington manning the vocals. Endless riffs and blistering rhythm help carry Bennington’s powerful performance as he casually switches between styles throughout the track, from more alternative rock verses to fully screamed rap vocals during the bridge. Papa Roach‘s Jacoby continues to deliver some strong vocals in the following track ‘Sworn Apart,’ with big choruses contrasting subtler verses. Other tracks throughout the record continue to push things forward with their momentous drive, including ‘Save Defiance‘ with Myles Kennedy and ‘Imaginary Days.’

Anesthetic is more than a straightforward metal record. There’s lots of things going in the record on to provide variety as it goes. The first track that really shakes up the album’s sound is ‘Axis,’ where Mark Lanegan sounds wonderful over the folkier, cooler instrumental. Also on the softer side of things is ‘Reveal,’ a weirdly cheesy track where Naeemah Z. Maddox sings upliftingly. On the opposite side of things, Morton gets truly heavy at some points throughout the record. Closing track ‘The Truth Is Dead‘ sees Randy Blythe and Alissa White-Gluz close the album on a huge note, with deathly roars and massive riffs driving the album out. Massive riffs embody ‘The Never‘ with Chuck Billy and Jake Oni as well, while the aggressive and threatening drives of ‘Blur‘ with Mike Moralez and ‘Back From The Dead‘ with Josh Todd keep the album alive and powerful.

Mark Morton teams up with some of rock and metal’s best musicians in his genre-encapsuling debut record Anesthetic, bringing power, energy, and variety all at once. Few metal records see such an impressive amount of talent coming together, and it’s awesome to see what can happen when they do.

Favorite Track: Cross Off

Least Favorite Track: Reveal

Rating: 75 / 100

Stream or buy Anesthetic on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

2 Chainz - Rap Or Go To The League (Album Review)

No one in hip-hop has the underlying reputation that 2 Chainz has. His music has pushed hip-hop in new directions, and is now showing the world once again that he’s ready to roll with the punches. 2 Chainz solidifies his reputation in the rap game in Rap Or Go To The League, his new album that has him embracing both modern and classic sounds.

It’s clear that 2 Chainz has a conviction in the way he presents himself and spits in Rap Or Go To The League. Opening track ‘Forgiven‘ immediately presents a dark and alarming atmosphere. The track lays down the harsh realities of life for rappers and those growing up in the same culture 2 Chainz grew up in. Marsha Ambrosius helps provide a soulful touch to the song during its hooks, singing alongside a JAY-Z sample. 2 Chainz returns to more serious vibes throughout the record, including in ‘NCAA‘ where the dark, urgent drive of the track really creates a dark atmosphere, and in ‘2 Dollar Bill,’ where Lil Wayne really goes in on his verse.

Rap Or Go To The League isn’t a masterpiece, but it offers up some pretty solid tracks even when they don’t go above and beyond. Poppier tracks like ‘Rule The World‘ with Ariana Grande and ‘Girl’s Best Friend‘ with Ty Dolla $ign give the record a more familiar and even fun vibe, while calmer tracks like ‘I’m Not Crazy, Life Is‘ with Chance The Rapper and Kodak Black and closing track ‘Sam‘ seek to ease the mood. There’s plenty of energy to be found throughout the album: ‘Whip‘ with Travis Scott is a standard but solid trap hit, while Kendrick Lamar helps add his signature sense of urgency to the dark and aggressive ‘Momma I Hit A Lick.’ 2 Chainz really covers a lot of ground while keeping things interesting throughout the album.

2 Chainz asserts his dominance in the hip-hop hierarchy in Rap Or Go To The League, where his diverse tracklist and impressive feature list serves as his proof. It’s not a masterpiece, but it’s certainly something you can thoroughly enjoy.

Favorite Tracks: NCAA, 2 Dollar Bill

Least Favorite Track: I Said Me

Rating: 75 / 100

Stream or buy Rap Or Go To The League on Apple Music, or follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Hozier - Wasteland, Baby! (Album Review)

Back in 2014, you couldn’t go anywhere without hearing Hozier‘s ‘Take Me To Church.’ It seemed as if he disappeared off the face of the Earth after he wrapped up the cycle for his debut, but now, he’s back and bigger than ever. Hozier returns with power and experience with his long-awaited sophomore record Wasteland, Baby!

Wasteland, Baby! shows that not only is Hozier here to make a statement, but that he has both the bark and bite to make it effective. Single ‘Nina Cried Power‘ opens the record, a distinct and powerful drive carrying Hozier’s urgent, warning vocals as he roars above the instrumental, hailing those who have raised their voice in protest in the past. Mavis Staples adds an important and distinct power to the track, her bluesy timbre pairing with the song’s gospel overtones perfectly. Huge atmospheres dominate the record as it progresses, tracks like ‘Movement‘ and ‘Dinner & Diatribes‘ bringing a massive vibe to the album, coming to life with big energy and distinct moods. Hozier’s softer songs on the record also come with engaging atmospheres: ‘As It Was‘ is a weathered acoustic folk number that really shows his songwriting abilities and his prowess over a more intense vibe.

There’s not a single track on Wasteland, Baby! that feels like it falls short of greatness. Not every track is a banger, but most at least keep things enjoyable. The only track that feels like it’s just a bit too repetitive is ‘To Noise Making (Sing),’ and even then it sort of fits the track’s more poppy, sing-a-long atmosphere. Warm indie ballads like ‘Nobody‘ and ‘Would That I‘ add more character and dynamic to the record, while chiller numbers like ‘Shrike‘ and ‘No Plan‘ with its great guitar work add color and provide reprieve from some of the more meaningfully intense tracks. The record ends calmly with a combo of ‘Sunlight,’ a track with a beautiful atmosphere to it, and title track ‘Wasteland, Baby!‘ that ends things off on a calm and calculated note.

Hozier’s sophomore record Wasteland, Baby! is the perfect, righteous comeback for one of rock’s most distinguished acts. It has flair, passion, and plenty of originality to spare, and hits hard even when hitting the soft notes. Only Hozier could bring it back like this.

Favorite Tracks: Dinner & Diatribes, Nina Cried Power, Movement

Least Favorite Track: To Noise Making (Sing)

Rating: 84 / 100

Stream or buy Wasteland, Baby! on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Weezer - Weezer (The Black Album) (Album Review)

Weezer has already been pretty busy this year with their Teal Album cover album, but they’ve brought even more to offer with another record, this time with all new material. Weezer adds a poppy flair to their distinct catchy rock legacy with their energetic new record Weezer (The Black Album).

Weezer sound as energetic as ever (though still fittingly dejected in that Weezer-y way) in The Black Album, ensuring that you can’t help but enjoy it if you embrace the more modern sound. The Spanish punch of ‘Can’t Knock The Hustle‘ brings the record to a very fun and dynamic start, Weezer introducing their new sound effectively and respectfully. The fun energy continues with the following track ‘Zombie Bastards,’ a rockier attitude coming with it to keep Weezer’s core sound alive. A lot of The Black Album can only be described as fun: ‘High As A Kite‘ is a nice track about parasailing, while the punchy pop of ‘The Prince Who Wanted Everything‘ adds a fun dynamic towards the end of the album.

The Black Album is an overall solid and pretty inoffensive effort from Weezer, but it doesn’t go above and beyond. There are no inherently weak tracks, yet all the same there are only a handful of tracks that stand out on the album. ‘I’m Just Being Honest‘ is one of them, the track perfectly capturing Weezer’s poppier sound with their rock background. Closing track ‘California Snow‘ also stands out, the track sounding unique from anything on the rest of the record with its electronic atmosphere. Other tracks like ‘Too Many Thoughts In My Head‘ and ‘Piece Of Cake‘ deliver some nice, energetic vibes to the record but really don’t stand out above the rest, which is the case for several tracks.

Weezer redefine their sound by adding a modern, pop rock punch to it in their new record Weezer (The Black Album). Though most tracks don’t stand out as stellar, it’s an overall solid record that delivers some nice vibes and great energy. Not a classic Weezer album, but an enjoyable one nonetheless.

Favorite Tracks: Can’t Knock The Hustle, California Snow, I’m Just Being Honest

Least Favorite Track: The Prince Who Wanted Everything

Rating: 77 / 100

Stream or buy Weezer (The Black Album) on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Solange - When I Get Home (Album Review)

When someone from the Knowles family drops something out of the blue, big expectations follow. Solange has finally returned with a follow up to her 2016 record A Seat At The Table, but unfortunately, this record doesn’t quite have the bark it wishes it did. Solange‘s surprise new record When I Get Home falls short of glory, delivering weak tracks that have meanings greater than the songs can justify.

Solange tends to stray from norms and create whatever she desires, but there’s something off to her experimental nature in When I Get Home. This record is weird, but in the ways you’d hope it wouldn’t be, especially in the cases where Solange is trying to make a statement. It becomes obvious that Solange’s art pop sounds on this record loses its touch when tracks like ‘Aldema‘ play. There’s raising awareness for black representation, then there’s this, a weird mashup of a wonky bassline and charged lyrics that have little sense about what they really want to say. ‘My Skin My Logo‘ is even worse, seeing both Solange and Gucci Mane repeat the same lines about how much stuff they have and how much they like to party. It’s hard to assign much of anything to some tracks, with songs like ‘Way To The Show‘ being nothing more than crooning over a weird beat.

The main problem with When I Get Home is that there’s this constant competition in every track for attention. You never know if its the unconventional beat and repetitive melodies that’s meant to be the focus of the track or Solange’s strangely charged lyrics, creating a disparity that prevents you from taking anything away from the album. Opening track ‘Things I Imagined‘ at least builds a nice vintage, dreamy atmosphere around Solange’s reverberating vocals. There are plenty of tracks that really could’ve gone somewhere had more been done with them, like the jazzy noir-styled ‘Time (Is)‘ and the curiously bubbly ‘Sound Of Rain.’ Sadly, there are more empty tracks between needless interludes and intermissions that just keep dragging the record down from start to finish.

Solange really misses the mark in When I Get Home, failing to synthesize any of her weirdly charged and strangely composed tracks on the record. It’s a lot of bark and no bite, which can never go well. There’s a clear message here, but nothing to back it up.

Favorite Track: Time (Is)

Least Favorite Tracks: My Skin My Logo, Jerrod

Rating: 38 / 100

Stream or buy When I Get Home on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

John Frusciante - Curtains (Throwback Review)

Though better known as the former famed Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist, John Frusciante has quite a discography behind him that shows his real musicianship. In his 2005 record Curtains shows John Frusciante’s songwriting abilities, as well his mastery of guitar and performance.

Curtains is primarily an acoustic album, moving away from Frusciante’s rockier side. Opening track ‘The Past Recedes‘ introduces the album with a folky start, the dejected ballad somberly trodding along as Frusciante’s weathered vocals show the wear of experience. The folk vibe continues throughout the record, more wholly embraced in tracks including ‘Lever Pulled.’ Melancholy folk tracks aren’t what defines Curtains, though. There are sweeter moments, like the aesthetically pleasant ‘Time Tonight,‘ and then more tame and plotted numbers such as ‘Control,’ where the song’s steady and tight structure pairs wonderfully and mysteriously with Frusciante’s vocals.

Frusciante has many stories to tell, which is what Curtains is all about. The way Frusciante wrote and composed these tracks is evident through the very performance of them, with tracks like ‘The Real‘ feeling almost alive, its rhythm carrying it forward with a nice, warm push. Other times, Frusciante channels a more dramatic and somber vibe, such as in closing track ‘Leap Your Bar,’ which ends the record gently and a bit melodramatically, as well as in ‘Your Warning,’ a heartbreaking but beautiful track, begun by the tragic cry of “You're warning me to get out of the way / Was the safest thing to say.“ There’s a bit of everything in Curtains, which is impressive considering the stripped down nature of it.

John Frusciante’s 2005 record Curtains shows his songwriting and storytelling prowess, offering up personal tracks with engaging tales. Frusciante is much more than just the stunning axeman of the Red Hot Chili Peppers - he’s an artist through and through.

Favorite Track: Your Warning

Least Favorite Track: Anne

Rating: 74 / 100

Stream or buy Curtains on Apple Music, and follow our Throwback Playlist on Spotify:

Jonas Brothers - 'Sucker' (Track Review)

Anyone who grew up in the 2000’s knows that the Jonas Brothers were nothing short of a cultural phenomenon back in the day. Over the years, the trio have all gone about their own careers and lives, but it seems anything is possible in 2019, because they’re back. The Jonas Brothers have returned with a funky and lively new track ‘Sucker,’ a distinct swagger and catchiness marking one of this year’s biggest comebacks.

Everyone’s gone and explored their own paths in life, and that all shows in the Jonas Brothers’ redefined sound. Though Kevin Jonas largely stayed out of the limelight since the band originally parted ways, Nick Jonas kept his pop flair alive with solo career (releasing his debut Last Year Was Complicated in 2016) and Joe Jonas explored funk and pop in his band DNCE. You feel a bit of everything in ‘Sucker:’ Nick’s crooning vocals that ooze sensuality, Joe’s funky swagger apparent in the rhythm and melodies, and Kevin’s tight instrumentation keeping things driving forward but ever giving too much or too little. The Jonas Brothers certainly picked the perfect track to show that they’re still as solid as ever.

The song itself is pretty much a funky “look who’s back and ready for more,” but in the best ways. Even the song’s subject is a spiced up version of the old Jonas Brothers’ flair, the song replacing teenage attraction with matured sexuality. The chorus tantalizingly croons “I'm a sucker for you / You say the word and I'll go anywhere blindly / I'm a sucker for you, yeah / Any road you take, you know that you'll find me,” Nick and Joe harmonizing wonderfully together in perfect unison. The music video is a flaunt as well, the brothers’ wives all staring alongside them as they live a lavish and free lifestyle. It’s like a reintroduction back into their lives as a unit, rather than separate entities.

The Jonas Brothers have comeback with style and flair with ‘Sucker,’ the group’s first single in over six years. If this single makes one thing certain, it’s that the Jonas Brothers are back and here to stay. Big things are bound to be ahead with a comeback like this, and we’re ready for it.

Rating: 88 / 100

Stream or buy ‘Sucker’ on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Offset - FATHER OF 4 (Album Review)

The three Migos boys don’t have the greatest track record as far as their solo records go, but Offset has managed to set the standard just a bit higher. Offset brings some solid tracks in his debut studio album FATHER OF 4, not quite delivering fully but managing to keep things entertaining for the most part.

If Offset does one thing right, it’s that he keeps the drive of the record going. FATHER OF 4 stays pretty energetic for a majority of its run, with tracks like ‘Tats On My Face‘ and ‘Underrated‘ keeping a hint of aggression in the bars to keep things punchy as well.The first track that really pops out is ‘How Did I Get Here,‘ where Offset and J. Cole flow together effortlessly, keeping a threatening vibe to make their presence known. It’s much of the first half of the record where the most energetic tracks are, though not all make an impact: while aggressive, ‘Made Men‘ doesn’t quite make the cut.

Though Offset does deliver some great tracks on FATHER Of 4, it’s still not too great of a record. A majority of it remains boring and forgettable, tracks like ‘Legacy‘ which features both 21 Savage and Travis Scott falling pretty flat. Quavo joins the record on ‘On Fleek,’ where they unsurprisingly start flexing their richness above a basic beat. Cardi B adds a nice punch to ‘Clout,’ though the rest of the track keeps it pretty forgettable. It’s really the final run of songs that really just feel like filler to extend the record for no apparent reason. And with surprisingly refreshing tracks like the soulful ‘North Star‘ with CeeLo Green, it’s hard to believe that the same amount of thought went into some of these other tracks.

Offset delivers some strong tracks on his debut record FATHER OF 4, but still doesn’t quite meet the mark. A majority of the record remains forgettable, but it’s refreshing to hear some actually impressive tracks from anyone from the Migos camp. Perhaps 2019 has a lot left to offer from them.

Favorite Tracks: North Star, How Did I Get Here

Least Favorite Tracks: On Fleek, Made Men

Rating: 65 / 100

Stream or buy FATHER OF 4 on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

grandson - a modern tragedy, vol. 2 (EP Review)

Over the past year, grandson has built himself a steady and dedicated fanbase, no doubt thanks to his eclectic sound. His debut EP solidified his place as one of music’s hottest rising artists, and he’s back for more with his follow up. grandson expands his sound with fire and flair in his new EP a modern tragedy, vol. 2.

grandson certainly hasn’t lost his signature swagger since the release of a modern tragedy, vol. 1. ‘Apologize‘ opens the record, the song’s cool groove led by grandson’s distinct rhythms showing a less aggressive side to his music. The energy stays alive and well, though, with tracks like ‘Stigmata‘ and its great choruses and awesome drops. This EP is far less aggressive and much more introspective than his previous effort, ‘Is This What You Wanted‘ having a dejected way about it while the atmosphere of closing song ‘Darkside‘ is brooding and haunting. The darker tone to the record and grandson’s normal swagger come together in ‘Fallin (Temptation),’ finding a nice balance between both sides of grandson’s music.

grandson shows off a new side to his music while keeping is fire alive and well in his new EP a modern tragedy, vol. 2. Though not quite as impactful as the initial EP, this record still maintains grandson’s position as one of music’s most promising new artists. His attitude and character are unique and alive in his music, which promises only big things ahead for him.

Favorite Track: Stigmata

Least Favorite Track: Apologize

Rating: 75 / 100

Stream or buy a modern tragedy, vol. 2 on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Dream Theater - Distance Over Time (Album Review)

Though progressive rock is known for its complexities, few bands take their role in the genre as seriously — and successfully — as Dream Theater. With several concept records and generally massive records under their belt, Dream Theater are set on a new goal in their new record. While maintaining their songwriting prowess, Dream Theater dig into their heavy side in Distance Over Time, offering giant riffs, complex tracks, and lots of energy.

Distance Over Time treads away from the Dream Theater norm of a lengthy concept (and, after 2016’s extensive The Astonishing, it’s not unwelcome), but it’s just as powerful as any other record. Short for Dream Theater still means 57 minutes of playtime, and they have more than enough time to show their complex writing style. ‘Fall Into The Light‘ is built from many different parts, the initially energetic track featuring a beautiful guitar solo during the bridge and a very intense end. There’s no concept attached to this record, but the theatrics are just as expected, with opening track ‘Untethered Angel‘ bringing the record to a huge start with its massive riff. The dark atmosphere pushes forward with a confident drive, Dream Theater jamming all along the way. Tracks like ‘Room 137‘ and ‘Paralyzed‘ live off of much the same energy, electrifying riffs and awesome groove keeping the record going.

There are few moments of reprieve on Distance Over Time, but there’s plenty of things going on that keep the record flowing. Dream Theater step away from darker moods with songs like ‘Barstool Warrior,’ an uplifting and beautiful instrumental track, and ‘Out Of Reach,’ a sweeter song with warmer melodies. Similarly, ‘At Wit’s End‘ resolves in an almost hopeful way after its initial heavy start. No track is as heavy, however, as ‘S2n,‘ which is almost ridiculously electrifying with its huge riffs and massive drive. The record ends as dramatically as it began with the punchy and dynamic ‘Pale Blue Dot,’ ending the album on a massive note.

Few bands are as grandiose as Dream Theater, and that shows even in their simpler records. Dream Theater show off their songwriting and jamming prowess in their massive new effort Distance Over Time, delivering in every regard. Dream Theater never do anything short of impressive, and this record is no exception.

Favorite Tracks: Fall Into The Light, S2n, Untethered Angel

Least Favorite Track: Out Of Reach

Rating: 87 / 100

Stream or buy Distance Over Time on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Lil Pump - Harverd Dropout (Album Review)

If you’ve ever, for whatever reason, wanted to listen to your middle school experience as a problematic trap record, then you’ve found just the album for you. Lil Pump stays in line with the problematic side of trap rap with his misguided and underwhelming new record Harverd Dropout.

Given that Lil Pump couldn’t even be bothered to spell “Harvard” correctly in the title, you can probably get a good sense of what his attitude toward school and work is before you even head into the record. Willing to give him the benefit of the doubt? Well, Lil Pump will clap back right away with opening track ‘Drop Out,’ where he proudly proclaims: “Dropped out, then I got rich / Dropped out, then I put a Patek on my wrist / Dropped out for my teacher 'cause she ain't shit.” His unwarranted flexes only continue throughout the record, from ‘Too Much Ice‘ featuring Quavo to ‘Stripper Name,’ where he, YG, and 2 Chainz brag about all the strippers they’ve been with. The middle school angst doesn’t go away either, being the main vibe of ‘ION‘ with Smokepurpp (though this track admittedly has a pretty cool beat) and ‘Off White.’

Harverd Dropout isn’t a total bust. While every song comes with its own range of problems (from lyrical content to the beats), some at least give back a solid output. ‘I Love It‘ is the album’s most solid track, with Kanye West and Lil Pump vibing over the track. simply having fun. There’s no flexing, no “everything sucks” attitude: just fun. Lots of the beats are fairly solid, too: ‘Nu Uh,’ ‘Fasho Fasho‘ featuring Offset, and ‘Butterfly Doors‘ are all pretty enjoyable to listen to. Then again, tracks like ‘Vroom Vroom Vroom‘ that are literally just him making car noises and ‘Drug Addicts‘ dominate the record, making it almost intolerable at some points.

Lil Pump’s Harverd Dropout is highly problematic and uninspired, taking more from a middle schooler’s sense of going against the world than actual life experience. Lil Pump knows his fanbase, and he really went all out to deliver to them. The thing is, the music’s all bark and no bite, and for the rest of us, it doesn’t quite make the cut.

Favorite Track: I Love It

Least Favorite Tracks: Vroom Vroom Vroom, Off White, Drop Out, Stripper Name

Rating: 40 / 100

Stream or buy Harverd Dropout on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify:

Kehlani - While We Wait (Album Review)

It’s been a couple of years since Kehlani proudly entered the pop world with her debut effort, 2017’s SweetSexySavage, and before she preps her full follow up, she’s shared a new mixtape to hold over fans for awhile longer. Kehlani returns with a sweet and savory (yet fittingly risqué) new mixtape While We Wait, delivering simple yet effective pop bops that capture her essence.

While We Wait sees Kehlani doing what she does best: croon above sweet pop-infused R&B beats with a relatable and contemporary lyricism. Kehlani sings about what she knows about and nothing else, which is why many of her tracks feel so personable. This is especially apparent in tracks like ‘Morning Glory,’ where Kehlani sassily chants “And if you don't want me at my goodnight / Then you can't have me at my morning glory” during the chorus as she explains her perspective of what a lover should do for her (at least in terms of going to bed). Without pause or question, Kehlani sticks to who she is throughout the album, which is really what makes her sound so effective: though simple, you can’t help but move along to the sweet drive of tracks like ‘Nunya‘ (featuring Dom Kennedy) and ‘Too Deep.’

While enjoyable, While We Wait never fully captures your attention. There’s this overlying sense of chill the album goes for, but at the same time it feels like it’s searching for some emotional answer that sort of needs some sort of change of pace. The entire record is filled with these mid-tempo R&B tracks that you can’t go wrong with, yet still wish things would change up with. Chill tracks like opener ‘Footsteps‘ with Musiq Soulchild and ‘RPG‘ with 6LACK are examples of this: solid tracks that don’t really have anything “special” about them. The only track that really falls short is ‘Feels,’ being that the track is a bit dull. Likewise, the only track that really captures the sound perfectly is ‘Night Like This,‘ where Kehlani and Ty Dolla $ign join forces for a fun track with a great atmosphere. ‘Butterfly‘ brings in another interesting dark vibe before ‘Love Language‘ closes the record on a gentle yet fun end.

Kehlani’s While We Wait is packed full of character, such that even though it’s filled to the brim with the same mid-tempo drive, you can’t help but enjoy it. At worst, it’s offensive; at best, While We Wait is a solid R&B mixtape that sees Kehlani’s personality shine through.

Favorite Track: Night Like This

Least Favorite Track: Feels

Rating: 70 / 100

Stream or buy While We Wait on Apple Music, and follow our 2019 Playlist on Spotify: