Remembering For Against’s Brilliant Post-Punk Classic
Coalesced is For Against’s masterpiece, creating cinematic sonic spaces to function as containers for insular expressions of self-doubt, regret, and victory.
alternative rock
Death By Unga Bunga Boldly Fuse Power Pop and Garage Rock
Death by Unga Bunga’s Raw Muscular Power is a wild, humorous blend of power-pop and garage rock, tackling existential crises with infectious energy.
Bartees Strange Remains Shockingly Great on ‘Horror’
Fear may have inspired Bartees Strange’s new LP, but the songs on Horror are some of his best to date. He is one of the key artists of this decade.
Bloc Party Discovered Lightning in a Bottle 20 Years Ago
Bloc Party’s first and best record, championed by Franz Ferdinand, still captivates with its youthful energy, political commentary, and emotional center.
Franz Ferdinand Frustrate and Dazzle With ‘The Human Fear’
Franz Ferdinand dazzle and frustrate with The Human Fear, their return to the recording studio after a seven-year hiatus. It’s a patchy album with brilliance.
Aimee Mann Launched Brilliant Second Act with ‘Bachelor No. 2’
Aimee Mann is a survivor, wizened by experience but willing to keep going with a bit of hope, and Bachelor No. 2 is the peak of her powers.
Zzzahara Combines Thrills and Chills on ‘Spiral Your Way Out’
zzzahara’s new LP is about making the best of a bad situation, of transforming darkness into light. It’s a bittersweet testament to the spirit of Los Angeles.
Belly’s 1995 Album ‘King’ Surprised with Its Rock Sound
Belly’s rock-oriented follow-up, King, to their dream pop debut, Star, didn’t deserve its fate. It showcases a talented group stretching their sound.
Women in 1990s Rock Music Are Far from Dead
Tanya Pearson’s Pretend We’re Dead is both hopeful and challenging, and proves that the spirit of 1990s women in rock music is still alive and fighting.
Lontalius’ Fifth Album Is Successful and Strikingly Mature
Minimalistic and captivating, Lontalius’ new album shows a more concentrated sound. It reflects his growth and marks a high watermark.
Goth Punks AFI Get Their Flowers in New Biography
AFI’s resilience and innovation take center stage in Andi Coulter’s new biography, which is every bit as deserving of praise as more heralded peers.
Illiterate Light Lack Authenticity on ‘Arches’
Illiterate Light would be wise to ignore certain impulses concerned with image in favor of what might naturally set them apart.