Reviews

The Ruby Suns – Fight Softly

On their second album with Sub Pop, The Ruby Suns come into their own with an irresistible electro-pop album.

Gorillaz – Plastic Beach

Plastic Beach provides yet another reason to consider Damon Albarn one of the finest songwriters of this or any generation.

The Courteeners – Falcon

On their second album, The Courteeners aim high but struggle to come out from the shadows of their hometown’s musical legacy.

Local Natives – Gorilla Manor

Local Natives channels Grizzly Bear’s glossier side as well as Bitte Orca’s R&B leanings with surprisingly stellar results.

The Knife – Tomorrow, In A Year

Swedish duo The Knife takes on a project of colossal scope with Tomorrow, In A Year, one as frustrating as it is inspiring.

Johnny Cash – American VI: Ain’t No Grave

The last release taken from Johnny Cash’s recordings with Rick Rubin is a dignified and uplifting farewell from the Man in Black.

Thee Silver Mt. Zion… – Kollaps Tradixionales

Following yet another name and lineup change, Godspeed You! Black Emperor off-shoots return strong with their sixth album in ten years.

Holly Miranda – The Magician’s Private Library

Dreamlike and surreal yet grounded by fragile emotion, The Magician’s Private Library is mesmerizing.

Midlake – The Courage Of Others

Midlake’s latest The Courage Of Others quickly gets bogged down by its pompous and overly self-indulgent nature.

Lightspeed Champion – Life Is Sweet! Nice To Meet You

Lightspeed Champion’s sophomore effort leaves behind some clutter, but keeps Haynes’ trademark irony in tow.

Massive Attack – Heligoland

Those hoping for a return to Massive Attack’s 90s glory in the form of Blue Lines or Mezzanine are in for a bit of a disappointment.

Cloud Cult – Lost Songs From The Lost Years

Cloud Cult’s Lost Songs From The Lost Years manages to remain an authentic experience despite the 15 years of music it contains.

Basia Bulat – Heart Of My Own

Basia Bulat’s debut album was charming if not very polished. She flips the script on her glossy follow-up Heart Of My Own.

Moonface – Dreamland EP: Marimba And Shit-Drums

Spencer Krug’s dream-oriented project won’t convert naysayers, but it should provide fans with a satisfyingly fresh twist on his oeuvre.

Hot Chip – One Life Stand

It’s clear that Hot Chip have it in them to make another great album, perhaps even a classic. Unfortunately, One Life Stand is not it.