Saya Gray: SayaSaya Gray's second album transforms previous experimental charm into a more traditional breakup record with enhanced lyrical and emotional depth.
FKA twigs Tests Her Pop Skills on Eusexua'FKA twigs embraces pop elements in her new album 'Eusexua', showcasing danceable beats while maintaining her art-pop experimental roots.
fantasy of a broken heart: Chaos Practitioner EPThe duo's EP 'Chaos Practitioner' showcases an energetic blend of pop genres, packed with experimental sounds and innovative songwriting techniques.
Saya Gray: SayaSaya Gray's second album transforms previous experimental charm into a more traditional breakup record with enhanced lyrical and emotional depth.
FKA twigs Tests Her Pop Skills on Eusexua'FKA twigs embraces pop elements in her new album 'Eusexua', showcasing danceable beats while maintaining her art-pop experimental roots.
fantasy of a broken heart: Chaos Practitioner EPThe duo's EP 'Chaos Practitioner' showcases an energetic blend of pop genres, packed with experimental sounds and innovative songwriting techniques.
Deerhoof: Noble and Godlike in RuinDeerhoof's new album blends beauty and chaos through abrasive, experimental sounds, inspired by Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
YHWH Nailgun: "Sickle Walk"YHWH Nailgun excels in dark environments, reflecting their intense noise-rock aesthetic and experimental style.
Deerhoof: Noble and Godlike in RuinDeerhoof's new album blends beauty and chaos through abrasive, experimental sounds, inspired by Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
YHWH Nailgun: "Sickle Walk"YHWH Nailgun excels in dark environments, reflecting their intense noise-rock aesthetic and experimental style.
Papo2oo4 / Subjxct 5: Papaholic, Vol. 1Papo2oo4's 'Papaholic, Vol. 1' blends nostalgic East Coast mixtape rap with modern influences, creating a fresh and innovative sound.
Perfume Genius: Glory review full of energy and biting nuancePerfume Genius's 'Glory' masterfully blends indie rock with emotional depth and collaboration, touching on universal themes of life and queerness.
Ribbon Skirt: Bite DownRibbon Skirt's debut album blends personal storytelling with themes of colonial trauma and modern indie rock influences.
Perfume Genius: Glory review full of energy and biting nuancePerfume Genius's 'Glory' masterfully blends indie rock with emotional depth and collaboration, touching on universal themes of life and queerness.
Ribbon Skirt: Bite DownRibbon Skirt's debut album blends personal storytelling with themes of colonial trauma and modern indie rock influences.
Carrie Brownstein on Richard Avedon's Portrait of Cat PowerCat Power's music defies traditional norms, blending beauty with chaos in a captivating performance style.
Franz Ferdinand: The Human Fear review stiffness sets in on stodgy sixthFranz Ferdinand's new album The Human Fear reflects a marked shift to a middle-aged tone, showcasing a loss of their earlier coolness.
Carrie Brownstein on Richard Avedon's Portrait of Cat PowerCat Power's music defies traditional norms, blending beauty with chaos in a captivating performance style.
Franz Ferdinand: The Human Fear review stiffness sets in on stodgy sixthFranz Ferdinand's new album The Human Fear reflects a marked shift to a middle-aged tone, showcasing a loss of their earlier coolness.
In Mayhem, Lady Gaga Is Refracted and Reborn: ReviewLady Gaga's album 'Mayhem' showcases her uniqueness as an artist, blending various influences into a cohesive, original work.
Tom Waits: Rain DogsTom Waits redefined singer-songwriter norms with his unique narrative style and avant-garde sound.
Pink Siifu: BLACK'!ANTIQUEPink Siifu's album BLACK'!ANTIQUE celebrates unique Black creativity and cultural identity through its bold blend of genres.
Xang: Watch Over My BodyXang masterfully blends chilling sounds with levity, creating a unique immersive listening experience that requires multiple plays to digest.
In Mayhem, Lady Gaga Is Refracted and Reborn: ReviewLady Gaga's album 'Mayhem' showcases her uniqueness as an artist, blending various influences into a cohesive, original work.
Tom Waits: Rain DogsTom Waits redefined singer-songwriter norms with his unique narrative style and avant-garde sound.
Pink Siifu: BLACK'!ANTIQUEPink Siifu's album BLACK'!ANTIQUE celebrates unique Black creativity and cultural identity through its bold blend of genres.
Xang: Watch Over My BodyXang masterfully blends chilling sounds with levity, creating a unique immersive listening experience that requires multiple plays to digest.
Heavy Song of the Week: GWAR's Punked-Up Thrashy Raunchy Ripper "Lot Lizard"GWAR's new single 'Lot Lizard' showcases their musical prowess while retaining their signature comedic and satirical edge.
Star 99: GamanStar 99 blends catchy punk melodies with Gen-Z themes, showcasing their charm through relatable storytelling and infectious energy.
Heavy Song of the Week: GWAR's Punked-Up Thrashy Raunchy Ripper "Lot Lizard"GWAR's new single 'Lot Lizard' showcases their musical prowess while retaining their signature comedic and satirical edge.
Star 99: GamanStar 99 blends catchy punk melodies with Gen-Z themes, showcasing their charm through relatable storytelling and infectious energy.
PARTYNEXTDOOR / Drake: $ome $exy $ongs 4 UDrake's new album reveals his ongoing struggle for validation and acceptance in hip-hop, blending nostalgia with a sense of desperation.
509 BMG: "Special Request to All Nice and Decent Real Niggaz (Stop Hatin)"509 BMG revives hip-hop styles with humor and catchy beats.The track reflects a balance of aggression and chill vibes.Cultural references enhance BMG's punchlines and character.
Saba / No ID: From the Private Collection of Saba and No IDSaba's new album showcases a confident, relaxed vibe, emphasizing control over his time and a playful spirit in his storytelling.
Yung Lean Unleashes "Babyface Maniacs" Ahead of New Album Jonatan | stupidDOPEYung Lean's new single "Babyface Maniacs" explores darker emotional themes with a more fragile and raw sound compared to previous works.
Mac Miller: BalloonerismMiller's "Balloonerism" exemplifies his ability to blend joy and sadness through intimate songwriting and soulful beats.
Video: Doechii's Most Revealing RappingDoechii's song "Nosebleeds" effectively highlights her growth as an artist and her rich influences within hip-hop.
PARTYNEXTDOOR / Drake: $ome $exy $ongs 4 UDrake's new album reveals his ongoing struggle for validation and acceptance in hip-hop, blending nostalgia with a sense of desperation.
509 BMG: "Special Request to All Nice and Decent Real Niggaz (Stop Hatin)"509 BMG revives hip-hop styles with humor and catchy beats.The track reflects a balance of aggression and chill vibes.Cultural references enhance BMG's punchlines and character.
Saba / No ID: From the Private Collection of Saba and No IDSaba's new album showcases a confident, relaxed vibe, emphasizing control over his time and a playful spirit in his storytelling.
Yung Lean Unleashes "Babyface Maniacs" Ahead of New Album Jonatan | stupidDOPEYung Lean's new single "Babyface Maniacs" explores darker emotional themes with a more fragile and raw sound compared to previous works.
Mac Miller: BalloonerismMiller's "Balloonerism" exemplifies his ability to blend joy and sadness through intimate songwriting and soulful beats.
Video: Doechii's Most Revealing RappingDoechii's song "Nosebleeds" effectively highlights her growth as an artist and her rich influences within hip-hop.
On Mayhem,' Lady Gaga Returns to Her Star-Making SoundLady Gaga's new album 'Mayhem' mixes standout tracks with occasional rehashing of past sounds.Critics see a blend of innovation and nostalgia in Gaga's latest work.
Lust for Youth / Croatian Amor: All WorldsLust for Youth's new album 'All Worlds' marks a shift to warmer, summery sounds while maintaining past influences.
Yves Jarvis: All CylindersYves Jarvis embraces clarity in his music on the album 'All Cylinders', moving from experimental to structured melodies.
Darkside: NothingDarkside's music masterfully reflects and resonates with the collective anxieties of contemporary society.
Lucy Liyou: Every Video Without Your Face, Every Sound Without Your NameLucy Liyou's new album combines themes of heartache and self-acceptance with minimalist soundscapes, delivering her most direct and restrained work to date.
Song of the Week: Ethel Cain Rewards the Patient with the Hauntingly Beautiful "Vacillator"Ethel Cain's new album 'Perverts' marks a significant shift in her musical style, moving towards darker, more experimental sounds.
On Mayhem,' Lady Gaga Returns to Her Star-Making SoundLady Gaga's new album 'Mayhem' mixes standout tracks with occasional rehashing of past sounds.Critics see a blend of innovation and nostalgia in Gaga's latest work.
Lust for Youth / Croatian Amor: All WorldsLust for Youth's new album 'All Worlds' marks a shift to warmer, summery sounds while maintaining past influences.
Yves Jarvis: All CylindersYves Jarvis embraces clarity in his music on the album 'All Cylinders', moving from experimental to structured melodies.
Darkside: NothingDarkside's music masterfully reflects and resonates with the collective anxieties of contemporary society.
Lucy Liyou: Every Video Without Your Face, Every Sound Without Your NameLucy Liyou's new album combines themes of heartache and self-acceptance with minimalist soundscapes, delivering her most direct and restrained work to date.
Song of the Week: Ethel Cain Rewards the Patient with the Hauntingly Beautiful "Vacillator"Ethel Cain's new album 'Perverts' marks a significant shift in her musical style, moving towards darker, more experimental sounds.
Nao: Jupiter review an upbeat, welcome returnNao's new album 'Jupiter' showcases her unique R&B style with an optimistic tone despite challenges faced in recent years.
Stereolab returns and more: The Contenders, Vol. 8Stereolab releases their first new music in 15 years with the album 'Instant Holograms On Metal Film', highlighting themes of consumerism and environmental concerns.
Nao: Jupiter review an upbeat, welcome returnNao's new album 'Jupiter' showcases her unique R&B style with an optimistic tone despite challenges faced in recent years.
Stereolab returns and more: The Contenders, Vol. 8Stereolab releases their first new music in 15 years with the album 'Instant Holograms On Metal Film', highlighting themes of consumerism and environmental concerns.
SASAMI: Blood on the Silver ScreenSasami's new album conveys love and heartache through campy pop, but some tracks feel too aimless to resonate.
Yetsuby: 4EVAYetsuby's new album 4EVA showcases her innovative sound, refusing to conform to previous styles.
SASAMI: Blood on the Silver ScreenSasami's new album conveys love and heartache through campy pop, but some tracks feel too aimless to resonate.
Yetsuby: 4EVAYetsuby's new album 4EVA showcases her innovative sound, refusing to conform to previous styles.
Duckwrth Delivers His Most Unfiltered Work Yet with All American FckBoy | stupidDOPEDuckwrth's album All American F ckBoy* is a cinematic exploration of his psyche, blending genres and deep emotional themes.
Miley Cyrus's 'Something Beautiful' Video Is Pretty ... ExplosiveMiley Cyrus's new album 'Something Beautiful' defies expectations by blending soulful elements with explosive, experimental rock.
DJ Python : i was put on this earth EPDJ Python takes a bold step in his EP, blending deep house with poignant vocals to expand his artistic expression.
Song of the Week: PUP and Jeff Rosenstock Go Absolutely Stupid on "Get Dumber"PUP's 'Get Dumber' is a cathartic anthem about the absurdities of life and the struggles of being a touring musician.
Ariana Grande's New Songs Tell Us More About Her Divorce, So Here's A Roundup Of The Important LyricsAriana Grande's new deluxe album features lyrics reflecting her emotional journey post-divorce, sparking discussion among fans.
Lucy Dacus: Forever Is a FeelingLucy Dacus's fourth album explores passionate love yet is restrained by cautiousness and deliberation.
Yukimi: For You review sweet solo debut for Little Dragon singerYukimi Nagano's first solo album, 'For You', showcases her personal songwriting and influences from 70s soul and 90s nu-jazz.
Tim Hecker: ShardsTim Hecker's film scores are characterized by dark ambient soundscapes that redefine the horror genre, offering a unique listening experience.
Hiroshi Yoshimura: FloraHiroshi Yoshimura's 'Flora' redefines ambient music, emphasizing exploratory soundscapes over utilitarian melodies, and showcasing a journey unlike his earlier works.
Tim Hecker: ShardsTim Hecker's film scores are characterized by dark ambient soundscapes that redefine the horror genre, offering a unique listening experience.
Hiroshi Yoshimura: FloraHiroshi Yoshimura's 'Flora' redefines ambient music, emphasizing exploratory soundscapes over utilitarian melodies, and showcasing a journey unlike his earlier works.
Japanese Breakfast: For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)Zauner's album explores the aesthetics of sadness while blending mythology with personal and fictional narratives in a captivating and adventurous manner.
Biig Piig: 11:11 review long-awaited debut hovers on the edge of clublandBiig Piig's debut album displays diverse influences while her intimate bilingual vocals remain the central feature.
Central Cee: Can't Rush Greatness review conflict and contradiction underpin justly confident rap debutCentral Cee's debut album, Can't Rush Greatness,is shrouded in mystery, highlighting its significance in the UK rap scene.
Raisa K: AffectionatelyRaisa K's album 'Affectionately' uniquely explores domesticity and relationships through a blend of refined lo-fi and experimental sounds.
Biig Piig: 11:11 review long-awaited debut hovers on the edge of clublandBiig Piig's debut album displays diverse influences while her intimate bilingual vocals remain the central feature.
Central Cee: Can't Rush Greatness review conflict and contradiction underpin justly confident rap debutCentral Cee's debut album, Can't Rush Greatness,is shrouded in mystery, highlighting its significance in the UK rap scene.
Raisa K: AffectionatelyRaisa K's album 'Affectionately' uniquely explores domesticity and relationships through a blend of refined lo-fi and experimental sounds.
Jorg Kuning: Elvers PassJorg Kuning's new mini-LP 'Elvers Pass' showcases a vibrant and humorous style of minimal-house dance music.
Curren$y / Harry Fraud: Never Catch UsCurren$y and Harry Fraud's collaboration 'Never Catch Us' showcases the rapper's unique style, depth, and relevance in the underground rap scene.
Slinger in San Jose | Metro Silicon Valley | Silicon Valley's Leading WeeklySlinger's music transcends the emo label, showcasing melodies akin to REM and intricate instrumental arrangements.
Hekla: TurnarHekla's use of the theremin creates contemporary soundscapes that blend ancient and modern influences, resulting in a haunting auditory experience.
Michael Kiwanuka review big sounds from the quiet maestroMichael Kiwanuka's recent tour emphasizes warmth and identity in a rock'n'roll setting.
Charley Crockett: Lonesome DrifterThe drifter's existence represents a profound sadness driven by aimlessness compared to other archetypes like the rambler and gambler.
Bonnie "Prince" Billy: The Purple BirdOldham's 'The Purple Bird' features humorous country themes while showcasing his evolved vocal style, drawing inspiration from legendary artists.
Charley Crockett: Lonesome DrifterThe drifter's existence represents a profound sadness driven by aimlessness compared to other archetypes like the rambler and gambler.
Bonnie "Prince" Billy: The Purple BirdOldham's 'The Purple Bird' features humorous country themes while showcasing his evolved vocal style, drawing inspiration from legendary artists.
Harto Falion / evilgiane: The HurtlessFalión's 'The Hurtless' album reflects a disconnection from reality, blending various artistic forms into a surreal auditory experience.
Lady Gaga Sounds Like Herself AgainLady Gaga's new album 'Mayhem' reflects on her early career while showcasing her artistic growth and authenticity.
Lady Gaga's Sexy New Bop Is So Taylor Swift-CodedLady Gaga's album 'Mayhem' fuses themes of romanticism and self-acceptance while celebrating her 'bad girl' persona.
10 Outrageously Great Lady Gaga Deep CutsLady Gaga's latest album 'Mayhem' showcases her artistic evolution and deep cuts worthy of appreciation alongside her well-known hits.
Lady Gaga: "Abracadabra"Lady Gaga's new single 'Abracadabra' showcases strong hooks but feels reminiscent of her older work.Despite mixed feelings, 'Abracadabra' stands out as one of Gaga's best recent singles.
Lady Gaga Sounds Like Herself AgainLady Gaga's new album 'Mayhem' reflects on her early career while showcasing her artistic growth and authenticity.
Lady Gaga's Sexy New Bop Is So Taylor Swift-CodedLady Gaga's album 'Mayhem' fuses themes of romanticism and self-acceptance while celebrating her 'bad girl' persona.
10 Outrageously Great Lady Gaga Deep CutsLady Gaga's latest album 'Mayhem' showcases her artistic evolution and deep cuts worthy of appreciation alongside her well-known hits.
Lady Gaga: "Abracadabra"Lady Gaga's new single 'Abracadabra' showcases strong hooks but feels reminiscent of her older work.Despite mixed feelings, 'Abracadabra' stands out as one of Gaga's best recent singles.
Kilbourne: If Not to Give a FantasyKilbourne's album blends industrial hardcore with diverse influences, creating a dynamic sound that challenges genre conventions while reflecting on intense experiences.
Khadija Al Hanafi: !OK!Khadija al Hanafi's album !OK! offers a frenetic exploration of sound influenced by '70s soul, effectively merging digital and physical realms.
Kilbourne: If Not to Give a FantasyKilbourne's album blends industrial hardcore with diverse influences, creating a dynamic sound that challenges genre conventions while reflecting on intense experiences.
Khadija Al Hanafi: !OK!Khadija al Hanafi's album !OK! offers a frenetic exploration of sound influenced by '70s soul, effectively merging digital and physical realms.
Lisa Knapp and Gerry Diver: Hinterland review folk at its most exaltedLisa Knapp's Hinterland presents a captivating blend of traditional British folk and innovative arrangements, showcasing her unique vocal prowess and storytelling.
Panda Bear: Sinister GriftNoah Lennox's 'Sinister Grift' is a laid-back and emotionally complex solo album featuring contributions from Animal Collective.
Miya Folick : Erotica VeronicaMiya Folick's 'Erotica Veronica' navigates queer identity and longing through intimate songwriting while deviating from her prior production-heavy style.
Heavy Song of the Week: Revocation Team Up with Travis Ryan on "Confines of Infinity"Revocation's 'Confines of Infinity' showcases their trademark sound despite lineup changes, marking their return after a year's hiatus.
Pissgrave: Malignant WorthlessnessPissgrave's new album refrains from being palatable, maintaining their aggressive death metal identity with disturbing themes.
Heavy Song of the Week: Revocation Team Up with Travis Ryan on "Confines of Infinity"Revocation's 'Confines of Infinity' showcases their trademark sound despite lineup changes, marking their return after a year's hiatus.
Pissgrave: Malignant WorthlessnessPissgrave's new album refrains from being palatable, maintaining their aggressive death metal identity with disturbing themes.
Sam Fender: People Watching review a lonely yet brilliant document of fameSam Fender's third album, 'People Watching,' delves into fame's loneliness and working-class struggles amid personal turmoil.The album explores life's ugliness while showcasing Fender's musical and lyrical depth.
Shutups in San Jose | Metro Silicon Valley | Silicon Valley's Leading WeeklyUnderground band Shutups blends post-punk, shoegaze, and melodic elements, creating a unique sound over 13 years, often overlooked by mainstream music.
Drake: "Nokia"Drake's collaboration album features nostalgic tracks, with "Nokia" standing out as a danceable anthem perfect for parties.
Sabrina Carpenter Flirts With Country and 12 More New SongsSabrina Carpenter's rework of Please Please Please highlights the ease of blending pop with country, especially with Dolly Parton's harmony.
Drake: "Nokia"Drake's collaboration album features nostalgic tracks, with "Nokia" standing out as a danceable anthem perfect for parties.
Sabrina Carpenter Flirts With Country and 12 More New SongsSabrina Carpenter's rework of Please Please Please highlights the ease of blending pop with country, especially with Dolly Parton's harmony.
Addison Rae: "High Fashion"Addison Rae's artistic reinvention and anticipation for her debut album reflect her growing influence in pop culture.
In her own out-there world': FKA twigs' 20 greatest songs ranked!FKA twigs' evolving sound demonstrates a balance between commercial appeal and experimental artistry.
Heavy Song of the Week: Scowl Kick It Back to the '90s on "B.A.B.E."Scowl's "B.A.B.E." recalls '90s alterna-pop with a fresh twist, representing nostalgia and innovative sounds in the current music scene.
In her own out-there world': FKA twigs' 20 greatest songs ranked!FKA twigs' evolving sound demonstrates a balance between commercial appeal and experimental artistry.
Heavy Song of the Week: Scowl Kick It Back to the '90s on "B.A.B.E."Scowl's "B.A.B.E." recalls '90s alterna-pop with a fresh twist, representing nostalgia and innovative sounds in the current music scene.
Oklou: choke enoughMarylou Mayniel's album choke enough showcases her evolution as an artist, fusing electronic pop with classical precision.
The Song That Helps Explain FKA TwigsFKA Twigs's new album explores themes of euphoria and presence through experimental music.Her artistic evolution emphasizes a departure from self-obsession and embraces the collective experience.
Sharon Van Etten and the Attachment Theory album review back in rock mode, with a twistSharon Van Etten's new album explores adult behavior influenced by attachment theory, blending gothic tones with rock influences.
Xhosa Cole: On a Modern Genius (Vol 1) review | John Fordham's jazz album of the monthXhosa Cole embodies Thelonious Monk's musical genius while captivating both enthusiasts and newcomers to jazz.
Tony Bontana: TUMPITTony Bontana's eclectic mix of genres produces a unique sound, with his latest mixtape 'TUMPIT' standing out as a significant creative achievement.
ZelooperZ / Real Bad Man: Dear PsilocybinZelooperZ's album 'Dear Psilocybin' reveals personal struggles and moments of clarity amidst its tranquil yet unsettling soundscapes.
Soprano Lise Davidsen Delivers Transcendence in Her Bay Area DebutLise Davidsen's performance showcased her extraordinary vocal talent and emotional depth, truly resonating with the audience at Zellerbach Hall.
The Weather Station: HumanhoodThe Weather Station's 'Humanhood' explores personal trauma and environmental crisis through immersive music, reflecting the potential for rebuilding after destruction.
Soul, sermonising and wrestling Satan: James Brown's 20 best albums ranked!James Brown's music showcases a blend of various genres and influences, reflecting his unique style and intense performances.
Nine Vicious: Studio AddictNine Vicious is a new rapper who mimics Young Thug's style while adding modern flair to Atlanta's rap scene.
An Unearthed Tina Turner Outtake, and 9 More New SongsTina Turner's unreleased track showcases 1980s production style, while contemporary artists explore personal struggles through their music.
Wardruna: Birna review numbing Norse nature-metal better suited to Netflix scoresWardruna's 'Birna' captures a cinematic essence through traditional instrumentation, echoing themes of nature's enormity and the impact of humanity's destruction.
Yola: My Way EPYolanda Quartey's latest release 'My Way' signifies a transitional phase in her career, showcasing both her range and themes of self-determination.
6 Albums Out This Week You Should Listen to NowNew releases include notable albums by Ethel Cain, Bad Bunny, Lambrini Girls, Wolfacejoeyy, and Brigid Mae Power, offering diverse musical experiences this week.
Yola: My Way EPYolanda Quartey's latest release 'My Way' signifies a transitional phase in her career, showcasing both her range and themes of self-determination.
6 Albums Out This Week You Should Listen to NowNew releases include notable albums by Ethel Cain, Bad Bunny, Lambrini Girls, Wolfacejoeyy, and Brigid Mae Power, offering diverse musical experiences this week.
Mobb Deep review New York rap duo can still keep the temperature risingMobb Deep's European tour exemplifies their enduring impact, celebrating the legacy of The Infamous and honoring the late Prodigy.
Rose Gray: Louder, Please review escapist dance-pop fizzes with inventivenessRose Gray's debut album blends experimental dance music with traditional pop, showcasing originality and emotional depth in her lyrics.
ML Buch: Suntub extrasThe balance of songs and instrumentals in Buch's work maintains engagement and prevents it from being mere mood music.
Lambrini Girls: Who Let the Dogs OutLambrini Girls use cheeky punk anthems to confront sexism and class issues while maintaining a fun, rebellious spirit in their music.
U2: PopU2's fear of being boring drives their creative evolution, exemplified by the contentious but innovative album, Pop, which explored hip-hop and dance influences.
Jane Remover: "JRJRJR"Jane Remover's new single 'JRJRJR' marks a shift from shoegaze to an explosive hip-hop sound, reflecting personal struggles and existential themes.