Music Reviews

'Friend of a Phantom', the fourth album by VOLA, showcases a mature blend of heavy riffs and atmospheric synths. Themes of change and introspection are explored through reflective lyrics and layered soundscapes, capturing human vulnerability. Each track contributes to a cohesive, thought-provoking journey and solidifies VOLA's place in progressive metal. 

Indie-rock greats Razorlight return with their latest album, 'Planet Nowhere', filled with the energy and charisma that first made them a staple of British indie rock.

Amyl and the Sniffers have just released their third studio album 'Cartoon Darkness' via Rough Trade Records, and we think it's their best yet - who says punk is dead?

German post-hardcore band Future Palace have released their third album 'Distortion', following on from their two previous albums 'Escape' and 'Run'. It is almost feels like a continuation from 'Run', as vocalist Maria Lessing writes more deep and meaningful lyrics dealing with subjects such as depression, toxic relationships and inner conflict.

Surf-punk band FIDLAR re-enter the music scene with their fourth album, 'SURVIVING THE DREAM', an album caught between the high-energy, youthful sound of the band and a new, more mature and reflective lyrical style. Tracks like 'FIX ME' highlight their raw vulnerability, while 'GET OFF MY WAVE' shows the more playful, chaotic energy associated with the band.

Photo Credit: Cian Marangos Metalcore band Void Of Vision come from Melbourne, Australia and their latest album, What I'll Leave

Rain City Drive’s latest album has dropped and it is an 11-track musical feast. 'Things Are Different Now' is an unapologetic mix of heavy rock melodies, modern pop experiments, and emotional lyrics to die for. Hook after catchy hook, this album is one to have on repeat.

French-Canadian post-punk outfit distraction4ever release their latest offering 'Business Core', an album of high velocity and pace from the outset, with a strong message of defiance attached. 'Business Core' is engaging, with a melting pot of differing sounds and languages throughout.

When vocalist/guitarist Heather Baron-Gracie met drummer Ciara Doran at University in Manchester they formed their own band Creek, but we wonder whether they thought ten years down the line they would be releasing a fourth album under the Pale Waves name. That’s exactly what they have done with 'Smitten', their most ambitious record to date and one that sees a slight move away from the pop-punk genre that they are well known for.

Having appeared at Reading & Leeds Festival, 2000trees and Truck Festival amongst others over festival season, indie-punk duo Happy Accidents now release their new album 'Edit Undo'. Here's what we thought of their fifth album...