The Coral: Distance Inbetween
Back after six years, the Coral have gone dark and ominous with an offering that presents a band still pushing, still experimenting, still relevant for these more troubling times.
Richard Folland
Bill Ryder-Jones: West Kirby County Primary
The ex-lead guitarist of the Coral shows yet again what a talented musician and songwriter he is.
The Maccabees: Marks to Prove It
Marks to Prove It shows that, even in 2015, Brit indie bands can still cut interesting and surprising recordings.
Palma Violets: Danger in the Club
Despite Palma Violets' continuing promise, aggression and abandon can't compensate for the lack of tunes on Danger in the Club.
The Wombats: Glitterbug
The Wombats have moved on from their exuberant indie past. Sadly their new identity as purveyors of retro dance/pop doesn't cut it on account of the lacklustre tunes.
The Charlatans: Modern Nature
A survivor band if ever there was one, the Charlatans have drawn on personal tragedy to produce one of the stand-out albums of their long career.
The Popguns: Pop Fiction
The Popguns are an archetypal '80s/'90s Brit indie band who, although they can knock out a passable tune, lack the inspiration or adventure to stray any distance from their fixed musical roots.
Spandau Ballet: The Story: The Very Best Of
The Story is a strong collection from a classic British '80s pop band. New subscribers could sign up here, but anyone with a passing acquaintance will find nothing new.
Simple Minds: Big Music
Simple Minds have released their best studio album in possibly three decades, striking a beautiful balance of pop radiance and musical delicacy.
Tears for Fears: Songs From the Big Chair
A 1985 bestseller re-issue which fails miserably to stand the test of time to put it mildly.
The Hollies: 50 at Fifty
The Hollies have been better represented on other collections and this anniversary collection contains little new. But their '60s pop virtuosity is still something to be treasured.
Midge Ure: Fragile
Midge Ure deserves respect for his illustrious musical history. This pleasant '80s throwback shows he can still make decent music, even if his voice these days disappointingly lets him down.