Gregor Barnett’s debut solo release carries the same toil and emotional richness as his work in The Menzingers, fed through the lockdown lens for a gripping alt-rock treat.
In this Review Round-Up, Dan Andriano impresses with his newest side-project, as do Near Death Condition’s new death metal outing, while sadeyes and InVisions aren’t quite able to match up.
A sharp swerve into glittering, hopeful electronica brings out the best of William Ryan Key’s post-Yellowcard material, sampling a variety of ideas but feeling creatively and emotionally succinct throughout.
Weatherstate continue to stick with a tried-and-true approach of blending grittier pop-punk and Britrock on their second full-length, an approach that has a lot to like but still hasn’t hit those superstar heights.
Zeal & Ardor’s self-titled album sees their black-metal / blues fusion reinvented and expanded, where the results are less airtight but continue to be fascinating.
In this Review Round-Up, Author & Punisher and Johnossi tap into darkness through varying styles (and levels of success), while Cold Night For Alligators strive to expand tech-metal, and Home Counties plant their flag in post-punk.
A longer runtime and greater refinement haven’t slowed down Black Country, New Road at all on their second album, as they continue to branch out and explore more experimental avenues in a consistently fascinating way.
In their tradition of continuing to one-up themselves despite an ever-increasing bar, Rolo Tomassi’s newest album is the absolute pinnacle of what they’ve achieved to date, equal parts punishing, progressive and beautiful.
Take a look at what we’ve been listening to throughout January in the newest edition of The Soundboard Stereo, ft. The Blackout, The Weeknd, Death Cab For Cutie, nightlife, Tonight Alive and Digable Planets.
As It Is’ steps into darker territory continue, with a grasp of tone and power that’s as sharp as ever, and an all-rounder status that sees what could be a lateral move feel like considerably more.