Raw Feed
All recent articles, grouped by source.
Aquarium Drunkard
Milton Nascimento's lost 1978 collaboration with A Barca do Sol, "As Gralhas," has finally been released after being rediscovered on a forgotten cassette. The album, conceived for a Kafka-inspired play, blends theatrical soundtrack, improvisation, and spiritual invocation.
This article is an interview with the band SML ahead of their performances celebrating Aquarium Drunkard's 21st anniversary. They discuss their new album 'Spontaneous Music Live', which documents their live improvisational performances, and delve into topics like improvisation, groove, and communication.
Cate Kennan's "Shadows" is a warm and intimate folk-infused album, drawing comparisons to Sibylle Baier, Bridget St. John, and Broadcast. The article suggests the music is deeply personal and saturated with emotion, though it requires membership to read the full review.
This article serves as an editor's note for the seventh volume of "Yesternow," reflecting on Aquarium Drunkard's 21-year history. It highlights key features, series, broadcasts, and recurring obsessions that have shaped the publication, framing it as a celebration of the sounds, conversations, and cultural detours that continue to inspire the project.
This article is an interview with April and Lance Ledbetter of the record label Dust-to-Digital. They discuss the label's new radio app, Dust-to-Digital Radio, and the challenges and advancements in sharing archival music in the digital age.
This article revisits Wax Machine's 2023 album, "The Sky Unfurls, The Dance Goes On," as a point of reference for Lau Ro's upcoming solo LP. It highlights Ro's ability to blend diverse influences into a unique sound, positioning the album as a preview of his future artistic direction.
This article discusses "D'Ya Hear Me!: Naffi Years 1979-1983" by Brenda Ray, a collection that blends British post-punk with homemade electronics, dub, and pop elements. The piece highlights the album's domestic, nocturnal atmosphere, featuring drum machines, elastic basslines, hazy guitars, and a pervasive reggae influence. The publication is paywalled, preventing a full review or detailed analysis.
Sean Thompson's new Weird Ears LP, "Inner Principles," is an atmospheric instrumental set that fluidly combines kosmische, country-rock, and ECM-style spaciousness. The album showcases Thompson's versatility as a guitarist, weaving together diverse influences into a cohesive and exploratory listening experience.
This article revisits Boris's 2006 album "Rainbow" and discusses the newly released "Rainbow 2," which extends the original's sonic world with two new side-long pieces. The publication praises the original as "heavy but unforced" and "transportive," suggesting "Rainbow 2" continues this tradition with spacious drone and hazy guitar interplay.
This is a brief announcement for The Aquarium Drunkard Show on SIRIUS/XMU, detailing its broadcast time and channel. The article also serves as a call for reader support through patron membership to keep the publication running.
This article discusses The Beach Boys' 1970 performance at the Big Sur Folk Festival, positioning it as a strategic move to connect with the counterculture following their album "Sunflower." Despite being unreleased, the setlist, drawing from "Pet Sounds" onwards, is presented as a positive, albeit calculated, artistic statement.
This article features singer-songwriter Zachary Cale discussing Neil Young's "Ambulance Blues." Cale breaks down the song's themes and musical elements, highlighting its status as a major work from Young's "On the Beach" album.
Bandcamp Daily
This article highlights notable punk releases from May 2026 on Bandcamp, showcasing a diverse range of sounds from established acts like Eddy Current Suppression Ring to newer bands such as Marbled Eye and Last Touch. The feature praises these releases for their energetic performances, sharp lyricism, and innovative approaches to the punk genre.
This monthly Bandcamp column highlights essential ambient music releases from May 2026. The selections range from intimate and jazzy explorations to deconstructed techno and atmospheric electronic soundscapes, showcasing a diverse array of artists pushing the genre's boundaries.
Nathan Evans Fox's new album "Heirloom" is a compelling act of rebellion against the current state of country music, blending heartfelt fatherhood themes with sharp social commentary. The album successfully uses satire and humor to tackle issues of class and heritage, solidifying Fox's place as a vital, empathetic voice in the genre.
This article explores how artists with disabilities are pioneering new musical frontiers through innovative approaches to creation and collaboration. It highlights organizations like Tutti Arts, Station 17, and The Semi-Modulars, showcasing their unique methods for empowering disabled musicians and fostering inclusive artistic communities. The piece celebrates the diverse sounds and creative expressions emerging from these groundbreaking initiatives.
This article revisits White Heaven's 1994 album "Next to Nothing," highlighting how the band diverged from their Japanese psychedelic rock peers by embracing an American West Coast sound, particularly influenced by The Doors. The piece praises the album for its unique interpretation of classic influences and its sophisticated blend of avant-rock with psychedelic and pop elements.
This article highlights five new releases across various genres, showcasing editor's current listening. It covers new albums from Cookin Soul & Estee Nack, Ill Conscious & Finn, Marbled Eye, Nymphlord, and Thee Marloes, with each receiving a brief but positive appraisal.
This article profiles Australian underground music figure Daniel Stewart, detailing his involvement in numerous projects like Straightjacket Nation, The UV Race, Total Control, G2G, and Station Model Violence. It explores his musical evolution, influences, and the philosophical underpinnings of his prolific output, highlighting his unique approach to punk and experimental music.
This article explores the concept of ambient music and highlights six artists from non-ambient genres who have released ambient albums. It details how these artists, often after transformative experiences, have used ambient music to express emotions through pure sound and disregard traditional musical structures, resulting in diverse sonic landscapes.
Monolord's latest album, "Neverending," is hailed as an ideal jumping-on point for the band, blending their signature epic doom sound with tighter, more soulful hard rock. The album successfully balances pop sensibilities and heavy slabs, culminating in a surprisingly effective collaboration for its closing track. Ultimately, "Neverending" proves that Monolord can deliver immense weight and emotional depth without relying on traditional doom tropes, marking a mature evolution for the band.
This article explores the resurgence and redefinition of Latin American roots music, highlighting how contemporary artists are blending traditional genres with modern sounds to resist homogenization and cultural erasure. It showcases a diverse range of artists who are drawing on their heritage to create innovative and politically charged music in the face of globalizing forces and domestic instability.
On their third full-length, "bitknot," feeble little horse shifts focus from guitar noise to melodic vulnerability, incorporating pop and hip-hop influences. While the balance between loud and soft is now more of an alternation, the album engages with consumerist themes through catchy, albeit sometimes dissonant, tracks. The verdict is that the band successfully ushers in a sweeter, more pop-adjacent sound.
This article profiles Mad Professor (Neil Fraser) and the 45-year history of his influential Ariwa label, highlighting his experimental approach to dub music and his role in nurturing talent. It traces his journey from a curious child to a pioneering producer, showcasing key releases and collaborations that defined his legacy.
Brooklyn Vegan
This article highlights nine new song releases from a variety of artists, including The Avalanches, Bouncing Souls, and Peter Gabriel. It serves as a curated roundup of notable new music available today.
This article is a roundup of recent music news and tour announcements, highlighting upcoming shows and releases from a variety of artists. It covers tour updates for Massive Attack, Violet Grohl, Gary Clark Jr, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, and mentions other artists like Kelela, Julia Jacklin, and Phoebe Bridgers.
They Might Be Giants played a series of shows in NYC, with each night dedicated to a different album. During one of these shows, they performed "Exquisite Dead Guy" for the first time in over 25 years, delighting fans with deep cuts and a comprehensive setlist.
M.I.A. is suing Kid Cudi, alleging she was terminated from a co-headlining tour for publicity reasons to boost flagging ticket sales. Her lawsuit claims Kid Cudi's team initiated her removal and that this was done as a publicity stunt.
Kelela has released a new track, "point blank," and announced an upcoming fall tour. Her third album, titled "New Avatar," is scheduled for release in July.
This article features an interview with Vince Clarke and Neil Arthur of the synthpop supergroup Doublespeak. They discuss their project, synthpop music, and other related topics during an episode of the BV Interviews podcast.
Julia Jacklin has signed with the label 4AD, following her three previous albums released on Polyvinyl/Transgressive. She has also announced an upcoming tour.
A posthumous album from the late The Fall frontman Mark E. Smith, titled 'Post Script', is set to be released eight years after his death. The article announces the upcoming album, offering a brief update on the project.
Charli XCX has announced her new album 'Music, Fashion, Film,' set for release on July 24. The album's cover art features notable figures including John Cale, Marc Jacobs, and Martin Scorsese.
Phoebe Bridgers is set to perform at Madison Square Garden this week, following a series of intimate pop-up shows across the US in May.
Shane MacGowans Pub, named in honor of the late Pogues frontman, is opening in New York City. The venture has the blessing of MacGowan's family and is taking over a space formerly occupied by McKenna's Pub.
This article reports the death of musician Doug Shaw, known for his work in Gang Gang Dance, Highlife, and White Magic. Tributes from fellow musicians like Angel Deradoorian and Lizzi Bougatsos are included, highlighting his impact on the New York music scene.
This article presents a curated playlist of the week's best new songs, highlighting a diverse range of artists and sounds. It serves as a recommendation guide for listeners looking to discover fresh music across various genres.
This article provides a roundup of various music tour and festival announcements, including updates on Slayer, Gurriers, Plantasia NY, Rosalía, Down / Helmet, Noah Kahan's Out of The Blue Fest, Riot Fest, She & Him, and Sloppy Jane.
This article presents a roundup of 20 new song releases from a variety of artists including Gold Panda, Lily Allen, Tom Morello, and 070 Shake. It highlights fresh tracks from established and emerging musicians across different genres.
Wyclef Jean has released "Mr. October," a new single featuring G Herbo, from his forthcoming album "Clef Notes." This album is part of a larger, ambitious project titled Quantum Leap, which encompasses seven genre-spanning albums.
The NY/NJ World Cup 26 Queens Group Stage HQ is an event running from June 11 to June 27, featuring live match broadcasts and performances by artists like Nas, Wyclef Jean, and Busta Rhymes.
She & Him, the duo of Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward, have announced their first tour in four years. They recently performed their song "I Thought I Saw Your Face Today" on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Reclus.É, the new project from Daniel P Carter and tummyache’s Soren Bryce, has released its debut single "A Muted TV." The article also mentions their upcoming festival appearances and tour dates.
Death Cab for Cutie is set to play their new album, "I Built You a Tower," live at an intimate Los Angeles show next week. Fans can pre-order an exclusive vinyl variant of the album in conjunction with the event.
The Netherlands festival Le Guess Who? has announced its initial lineup for 2026, featuring artists like Dirty Three, Shabaka, and Tortoise, alongside guest curators. The festival aims to present a diverse and forward-thinking program.
Syd has announced her third album, 'Beard,' her first in four years. The album is described as a snapshot of her current life and will feature the new single "Callin" featuring Blu June.
Several prominent artists, including Martina McBride and Poison's Bret Michaels, have withdrawn from Donald Trump's 'Great American State Fair' just days after its announcement. The festival, which was set to feature acts like Vanilla Ice and C+C Music Factory, appears to be facing significant artist attrition.
This installment of Indie Basement covers new releases from Boards of Canada, Iceage, Guided By Voices, Eddy Current Suppression Ring, The Bug Club, and Doublespeak. The column highlights recent classic indie, alternative, and college rock.
This article highlights notable music releases for the week of May 29th, featuring artists such as Kurt Vile, Greg Mendez, and ear. It serves as a brief overview of new music available.
This article highlights eleven new song releases from various artists including Starcleaner Reunion, Ian Sweet, Stab, Jadasea, and kelz. It serves as a weekly roundup of noteworthy new music.
Chanel Beads have announced a fall North American tour featuring Urika's Bedroom, Anastasia Coope, Mechatok, Ivy Knight, and Car Culture on select dates. The band also shared a new track, "Dust in the Wind."
The Portola festival has announced its 2026 lineup, featuring a diverse range of electronic and hip-hop artists including Robyn, Dog Blood, Swedish House Mafia, Tiësto, Four Tet, and Fatboy Slim. The festival aims to offer a wide spectrum of dance music genres.
London band Man/Woman/Chainsaw have announced their first US tour dates and shared a new track, "Goddamn, Lizard Man!". Their debut album, "Cannonball," is set to release on August 7.
Knocked Loose and Denzel Curry have announced a co-headlining tour, building on their prior collaboration with the single "Hive Mind." The tour will also feature support from Superheaven and Bound, promising a diverse and energetic lineup for fans.
Ravyn Lenae has announced her upcoming third album, 'Blue Island,' set to be released on August 7. The album's lead single, "Handle," has also been shared.
This article announces a presale for Yellow Magic Orchestra's Haruomi Hosono performance at Radio City Music Hall, with Toro y Moi set to open. It provides instructions and a password for accessing the presale tickets.
Riot Fest has announced an ambitious 2026 lineup featuring headliners Tool, Nas, Alanis Morissette, and Iggy Pop, alongside iconic acts like the Sex Pistols and Public Image Ltd. The festival also boasts a diverse range of artists including Bright Eyes, Pixies, and Angine de Poitrine, promising a rich musical experience.
Kristin Hersh has announced her forthcoming album, 'Sugar on Blackstone,' set to release on August 18. She has also shared the first single from the album, titled "Dark Eyed Junco."
Electronic duo Boards of Canada have publicly denounced the White House for the unauthorized use of their song "Music Is Math" in a social media video. They, along with their label Warp Records, stated they do not approve of their music being used for political messaging.
Tom Morello has announced the inaugural Power to the People Festival, a politically charged event featuring a star-studded lineup. The festival aims to support various social justice causes and will include performances from Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, Joan Baez, and many others.
Guided by Voices is releasing their 44th album, 'Crawlspace of the Pantheon', this week. The article provides a brief announcement of the new album's release.
This article highlights seventeen recently released songs from a variety of artists. It acts as a curated playlist of new music for listeners to discover.
This article compiles various music tour and festival announcements, including updates from The Chicks, The Tallest Man on Earth, Holy Wave, 6lack, Ink & Dagger, Desire / Johnny Jewel, Agalloch, and Quicksand / Bane. It serves as a digest of upcoming live performances and related event news.
Members of death metal band Tomb Mold are releasing music as Daydream Plus, a new project blending city pop and math rock. Their debut album, 'Second Last Day of Summer,' is set to arrive in July via Run For Cover.
Agalloch has announced their first shows in New York City, Boston, and Chicago in 12 years, with frontman John Haughm performing solo sets to open each date.
Iceland Airwaves has announced its initial lineup for the 2026 festival, featuring Shygirl, The Streets, and Daði Freyr & The Iceland Symphony as headliners. The festival will also include performances from Arny Margret and a host of other artists.
Gilla Band has released their first new music in nearly four years with the single "Giraffe." The band has also announced a fall tour across North America.
Donald Trump's 'Great American State Fair' in Washington D.C. featured a lineup of 90s musical acts including Milli Vanilli, Vanilla Ice, C+C Music Factory, and Bret Michaels.
The Cramps are set to receive a comprehensive reissue series, with Henry Rollins and Ian MacKaye spearheading the project. The series will kick off with a previously unreleased 1977 album produced by Alex Chilton.
Panda Bear and Sonic Boom have announced their new collaborative album, 'A ? of WHEN', which will not be released on streaming services. The duo aims to connect with fans through alternative methods like radio, live shows, and listening parties, seeking a more meaningful interaction.
Wild Pink have announced their new album "Still Coming Down", set for release in August. The album will feature contributions from MJ Lenderman and Hand Habits, and they've shared the lead single "Round of Applause at the End of the World."
Irish rap group Kneecap has released a new version of their song "Smugglers & Scholars" featuring Killer Mike. The original track appears on Kneecap's acclaimed new album, FENIAN.
A Perfect Circle has released a new single, "Starless," available exclusively on vinyl. This release precedes their upcoming European tour, marking their return to the continent after an eight-year hiatus.
Belle and Sebastian delivered a joyous performance at their Rooftop at Pier 17 shows, despite soggy Scottish weather. The band performed their first two albums in their entirety, creating a memorable experience for fans.
Hardcore punk bands Quicksand and Bane have announced a summer co-headlining tour. The tour will also feature support from Soul Blind. Quicksand's latest album, 'Bring on the Psychics,' is set to release in July.
Thom Yorke and Flea teamed up to cover Marvin Gaye's "Got to Give It Up" during Flea's London show at Koko. The performance also featured Warren Ellis.
The Durutti Column has announced their first album in 16 years, titled "Renascent," due out July 31 via London Records. They have also shared a preview track, "Liars," from the upcoming release.
Brooklyn Vegan: Playlists
Curated pick: Doublespeak — Brand New Life
Curated pick: Gold Panda — DING THE MOTOR
Curated pick: KNEECAP — Smugglers & Scholars (feat. Killer Mike)
Curated pick: Wet Leg — catch these fists - FDC DJs remix
Crack Magazine
The A-Cold-Wall* Echo Forward exhibition in Soho features works by Lucas Dupuy, Marla-Sunshine Kellard-Jones, and Scarlet Griffiths, exploring themes of material memory, preservation, and transformation. The exhibition includes live performances by Silv-o and TEMZ on its opening night.
The Simple Things festival has announced the first wave of artists for its 2026 edition, introducing a new guest curator program featuring Squid, Shabaka, and Jeremy Deller. The festival will also expand to a new venue, Shredenhams, and promises a diverse lineup across various genres.
Suntory Toki Whisky and Technics are launching "Toki-O Nights," a UK-wide series of listening bar events inspired by Tokyo's kissaten culture. Running from June to December 2026, these events will feature vinyl DJ sets, listening sessions, and workshops, pairing Japanese Highballs with music across London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
The Le Guess Who? festival has announced the lineup for its 20th anniversary edition, featuring guest curators like aja monet, KMRU, Los Thuthanaka, and Tropical Fuck Storm. The festival will take place in Utrecht from November 5-8, 2026, and will include a diverse range of artists and special programming like '24 HOUR DUB'.
The Semibreve festival has announced the final wave of artists for its 2026 edition in Braga, Portugal, set to take place from October 22-25. The additions include Marta Salogni, Ricardo Jacinto, System Sophie, RONI, Flora Yin-Wong, Suzan Peeters, and Dawn Dani, joining previously announced acts like Christian Fennesz and Azu Tiwaline.
Foxy Digitalis
This interview with composer Zeynep Toraman delves into her latest work, "Castle Terraces in Barry Lyndon," a multimedia project combining instrumental music, electronics, and film. Toraman discusses her compositional process, which emphasizes creating space, exploring theme and variations, and integrating diverse references from literature and film, aiming for a profound, immersive listener experience.
Guardian Music
Sathnam Sanghera's "Tonight the Music Seems So Loud" is a deeply affecting and analytical exploration of George Michael's life and legacy. While unashamedly partisan, the book also critically examines Michael's flaws and the societal context of his struggles, offering a heartbreaking yet ultimately admiring portrait of the troubled genius. The verdict is that it's a significant and moving contribution to understanding the artist.
This review discusses "Köln 75," a biopic about how an 18-year-old German promoter booked jazz pianist Keith Jarrett for a landmark concert. While watchable and well-acted, the film is criticized for its heavy-handed, condescending lectures on jazz improvisation and a surprising lack of the actual concert music.
Taylor Swift has announced a new original song, "I Knew It, I Knew You," for the "Toy Story 5" soundtrack, set to release on June 5th. The track, co-written with Jack Antonoff, marks a return to Swift's country roots and was inspired by the character Jessie. Swift expressed her lifelong admiration for the "Toy Story" franchise, having dreamed of contributing to it since childhood.
Totó la Momposina, a celebrated Colombian folk singer who became an international celebrity by reviving her country's music, has died at age 85. Known as the "queen of cumbia," she successfully introduced traditional Colombian styles like cumbia, mapalé, and bullerengue to a global audience through her powerful voice and vibrant performances.
Pixelate is a growing trend of internet-culture raves that celebrate "internet cringe" and nostalgia for the 2000s. These events provide a sense of community and a safe space for people to express themselves through themed costumes and music, offering an escape from the everyday.
Yard Act discusses their upcoming album, "You're Gonna Need a Little Music," exploring themes of imposter syndrome, self-belief, and societal anxieties through surreal lyricism. The band aims to navigate the pressures of success while remaining grounded, a sentiment reflected in their evolving sound and honest lyrical approach.
A collection of 1,700 rave and acid house memorabilia items, amassed over 35 years by producer Rob Ford, is set to be auctioned by Bonhams with an expected fetch of up to £80,000. The items, including rare membership cards and The Prodigy's first business card, offer a glimpse into the cultural identity and artistic flair of the era.
Radiohead guitarist Ed O'Brien shares his personal playlist, revealing surprising influences and a shift away from indie music. He discusses formative songs, karaoke anthems, and a new personal track that evokes strong emotion.
This review of Take That's stadium redux of their Circus tour highlights its maximal razzle-dazzle, featuring a "Big Top" concept with elephants, clowns, and aerialists. Despite its feel of a "cash grab" reboot of a past tour, the concert was "hugely enjoyable" thanks to the band's "undeniable anthems" and impressive spectacle.
Melbourne's vibrant vinyl scene, fueled by record stores, listening bars, and a new exhibition at Acmi, is celebrated, though its title as the "vinyl capital of the world" is debated against global giants like Tokyo. The article highlights the cultural and community significance of vinyl, even as economic pressures mount for independent labels.
This article highlights the evolving sound of the duo Ear, whose second album "Rumspringa" pushes their lo-fi laptop sound into stranger, more vivid territory. It also features a roundup of the week's best new tracks from various artists, showcasing diverse sounds and styles.
Matías Aguayo's "Anenoa" is a triumphant return to vocal-led, dancefloor-focused electronic music, blending Latin rhythms with ghetto house and trance. The album is praised for its infectious, playful energy and Aguayo's versatile, shapeshifting vocals, making it the funkiest, freest singer in the business hitting the dancefloor.
Violet Grohl's debut album, "Be Sweet to Me," offers a serviceable dose of 90s-inspired alt-rock with moments of genuine talent, though its nostalgia often feels too reverent and predictable. While Grohl demonstrates potential, her "hungry threats need sharper fangs."
Irish singer-songwriter CMAT has expressed "deep sadness" over body-shaming she has experienced following her performance at BBC's Radio 1 Big Weekend. She highlights the unfair disparity in online abuse compared to other female artists, noting how her success is tarnished by the constant scrutiny of her body.
Paul McCartney's latest album, 'The Boys of Dungeon Lane,' delves into his past, drawing inspiration from formative memories, family singalongs, and even his early life. Despite the nostalgic themes, the album is described as an adventurous and energetic take on guitar music. McCartney reflects on his past, his relationship with John Lennon, and the resilience of humanity in the face of current global challenges.
An Austrian court has sentenced a 21-year-old man, Beran A, to 15 years in prison for plotting an attack on a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna. The defendant admitted to attempting to acquire weapons and create explosives, with the concert serving as his intended target. The planned attack led to the cancellation of Swift's three scheduled shows in the city.
In this reader interview, Kathy Sledge clarifies that she was kicked out of Sister Sledge, not that she left, and discusses the group's legacy, their collaboration with Chic, and the political underpinnings of disco. She reflects on the group's impact and her own career, expressing a desire to have pursued solo work sooner.
Iceage's sixth album, For Love of Grace & the Hereafter, is a powerful, streamlined, and melodic effort that brilliantly combines their core indie-punk sound with shoegaze, country, and 50s rock'n'roll. Despite bleak lyrics, the music is gleeful and uplifting, marking their sixth stellar album in a row and showcasing their remarkable consistency.
Mouse on Mars discusses their recent album, "Spatial, No Problem," a collaboration with the late dub legend Lee "Scratch" Perry, recorded before his passing. The article highlights the duo's experimental approach to sound and their enduring 30-year career marked by oblique adventures.
The White Hotel, a decade-old experimental music venue in Salford, is closing due to flooding concerns, despite its success and consistent draw. Its founders, Austin Collings and Ben Ward, are looking back on their "minimum budget, maximum ideas" approach and planning to continue the venue's spirit through a new festival and film production company.
Tara Clerkin Trio discuss the challenges faced by working-class artists in the UK, including financial precarity and a "hostile environment to do art," as they prepare to release their second, more pop-oriented album, "Somewhere Good." Despite personal hardships and the struggle to balance music with survival, the band aims to create positive and meaningful art.
Guardian Music: Playlists
Curated pick: deBasement — AFTERMARKET BASS (feat. Nikki Nair)
Curated pick: Tracey Nelson — Hercules
Curated pick: Max F — Dream Channel - Space Ghost Club Remix
Curated pick: Cass McCombs — Seeing The Elephant
Curated pick: Ambrose Akinmusire — Soundcheck
Curated pick: Disgusting Sisters — Weirdo Magnet
Curated pick: james K — Peel - Loidis Remix
Curated pick: DC — Misunderstood - feat. Bawo
Curated pick: Jeff Parker — Like Swimwear (part one)
Curated pick: Enter Shikari — Dead In The Water
Curated pick: Dorian Electra — Hips Don’t Lie
Curated pick: One Leg One Eye — Many are my Names Besides
Curated pick: Emily A. Sprague — Double Moon
Curated pick: Tara Clerkin Trio — Silently
Curated pick: Ricardo Villalobos — Orin - Ricardo Villalobos Variation
Curated pick: PUNCHBAG — I Am Obsessed
Curated pick: Sofie Royer — Cowboy Mouth
Curated pick: Tracey Nelson — Hercules
Curated pick: Max F — Dream Channel - Space Ghost Club Remix
Curated pick: Kalia Vandever — Hubbard Road
Curated pick: Ambrose Akinmusire — Soundcheck
Curated pick: Disgusting Sisters — Weirdo Magnet
Curated pick: DC — Misunderstood - feat. Bawo
Curated pick: Ceebo — Parable Of A Skinnyman
Curated pick: Dorian Electra — Hips Don’t Lie
Curated pick: Citizen — Highs and Lows
Curated pick: Enter Shikari — Dead In The Water
Curated pick: Emily A. Sprague — Double Moon
Curated pick: Jura — You Make a Fire, You Make a Camp
Curated pick: One Leg One Eye — Many are my Names Besides
Curated pick: Ricardo Villalobos — Orin - Ricardo Villalobos Variation
Curated pick: Tara Clerkin Trio — Silently
Curated pick: Sofie Royer — Cowboy Mouth
Curated pick: PUNCHBAG — I Am Obsessed
Curated pick: Kalia Vandever — Hubbard Road
Curated pick: Madra Salach — The Man Who Seeks Pleasure - Live from Ailfionn Studios
KEXP
Francis of Delirium's sophomore album, "Run, Run Pure Beauty," is a maximalist indie rock set that showcases Jana Bahrich's expressive vocals and expansive arrangements. The album is a significant step forward from their debut, cementing the project's status as an indie rock powerhouse.
Iceage's sixth studio album, 'For Love of Grace & the Hereafter,' is a compelling, melodic, and playful post-punk record infused with shoegaze and art rock influences. The album masterfully dissects modern existence with frenetic arrangements, dizzying guitars, intricate drums, and Elias Bender Rønnenfelt’s emphatic vocals, resulting in a textured and mercurial collection.
Boards of Canada's fifth album, "Inferno," delivers their signature haunting, ominous, and dreamy beats, weaving a sinister thread throughout its 18 tracks. While the album leans into a darker palette, it also offers blissful reprieves and highlights that recall their earlier catalog, making for a compelling return.
Greg Mendez's "Beauty Land" is a stunning sixth album and his Dead Oceans debut. The record features intimate, heartfelt lyricism built around acoustic guitars, keys, and Mendez's emotive vocals, resulting in a deeply resonant collection defined by masterful songwriting and profound vulnerability.
KÁRYYN's sophomore album, PHYSICS UNIVERSAL LOVE LANGUAGE (PULL), is a stunningly produced and deeply emotional ten-track collection that blends electropop, neoclassical, ambient, and art pop. The album is a dense, immersive sonic tapestry featuring modular synths, strings, driving rhythms, and mesmerizing vocals, marking a triumphant return after a seven-year hiatus.
Konyikeh's debut mini-album "Cinere" is a striking R&B/soul set highlighting her magnificent voice over diverse backdrops, from orchestral to funk. The release signals the emergence of a versatile artist with a clear vision, signaling a strong debut.
Kurt Vile's tenth album is a largely self-produced, relaxed collection where he reflects on middle age, his hometown of Philadelphia, and his roots. Vile considers it his best vocal, electric guitar, and most organic record, treating it with the same dedication as his previous work.
Sosyete '25's debut album, "Yaygara," is a thrilling and addictive blend of Turkish psychedelic-disco-funk, fronted by the vibrant vocals of Merve Erdem. The London-based trio delivers consistently groovy and colorful music.
The mysterious LA-based artist's third EP delivers joyful, sample-heavy electronic grooves with infectious house and disco rhythms, featuring nods to R&B classics. The six sub-3-minute tracks are energetic and skip-free, offering a high-energy listen for club enthusiasts.
Brian Jackson's new collection, "Now More Than Ever," breathes new life into his catalogue through collaborations with Masters at Work and numerous guests. The project masterfully blends jazz, soul, R&B, hip-hop, funk, and spoken word, ensuring the messages from his past resonate powerfully today.
feeble little horse's surprise third album, 'bitknot,' is a moody, textured collection of hook-laden noise pop and indie rock. The album showcases the band's artful arrangements, layered guitars, and pointed social commentary with hazy vocals.
Future Islands' new collection, "From a Hole in the Floor to a Fountain of Youth," offers a celebratory retrospective of b-sides, demos, and rarities, compiled for their dedicated fanbase. The release acknowledges the band's two-decade journey and their enduring connection with listeners.
Marika Christine's sophomore album, Enjoy The Clouds, is a lush and enchanting blend of indie folk and chamber pop, featuring ornate arrangements and tender lyricism that finds beauty in life's ups and downs.
Naomi Scott's debut album, F.I.G., is a sophisticated and addictive pop release, produced by Lido with a co-production credit from Dev Hynes. The album blends mainstream appeal with a personal touch and a nostalgic feel, drawing sonic comparisons to Shura and Carly Rae Jepsen.
Tank and the Bangas' final "Balloon" trilogy installment, "The Last Balloon," showcases their vibrant funk, R&B, soul, and hip-hop fusion. The album features lush arrangements and notable guest spots from Dawn Richard, Lucky Daye, and Ledisi, making for a fun and dynamic listening experience.
The Bug Club's fifth album, 'Every Single Muscle,' is a fun, swift, and rambunctious collection of scrappy garage-punk and playful garage-rock. This prolific Welsh outfit continues to deliver their signature energetic sound.
Tomi's second album, "Break It Til You Fix It," is an impressive collection of smartly-crafted Americana and diaristic alt-country that explores the complexities of love. The album effectively balances catchy songwriting with nuanced emotional exploration.
KEXP: Playlists
Curated pick: SIR E.U — Survival - Vocal Mix
Curated pick: Moses Yoofee Trio — CHASING LIGHT
Curated pick: Modest Mouse — Third Side of the Moon
Curated pick: Régina Demina — Oui ou Oui ou Non - Vialice version
Curated pick: Madeline Goldstein — Dream 2 Die (No Heaven)
Curated pick: Megatronic — PEOPLE - Radio Version
Curated pick: Marquis Hill — Sweet Surrender
Curated pick: Little Simz — Game On (ft. JT)
Curated pick: MAQUINA. — dança (with Dame Area)
Curated pick: Mabe Fratti — El inicio es cuestión de suerte
Curated pick: Kokoroko — Time & Time (feat. Demae) [IG Culture Remix]
Curated pick: Louie El Ser — Perra (i wanna be your dog)
Curated pick: Loose Articles — Cringe of Hinge
Curated pick: Laura Veirs — Flying Into Darkness
Curated pick: Little Simz — Game On (ft. JT)
Curated pick: Lip Critic — 200 Bottles On Eviction
Curated pick: Josaleigh Pollett — The Witness
Curated pick: Library Card — Out of Context
Curated pick: Jorja Smith — What's Done Is Done
Curated pick: Jordan Patterson — Just My Friend
Curated pick: ill peach — CRASH COURSE DUMMY
Curated pick: Sweeping Promises — Shooting Shadows
Curated pick: Tank and The Bangas — Move (feat. Lucky Daye)
Curated pick: Terror/Cactus — Discoteca Fugitiva
Curated pick: Georgie Sweet — Equal Measure - Don Leisure Remix
Curated pick: Getdown Services — I Can't Die Like That
Curated pick: Greg Mendez — I Wanna Feel Pretty
Curated pick: Gurriers — Nobody's Coming To Save You
Curated pick: Hammock — Chemicals Make You Small
Curated pick: Emily A. Sprague — Double Moon - Andras Dub
Curated pick: Francis of Delirium — Out Tonight
Curated pick: Gently Tender — City Of The Beast
Curated pick: Gently Tender — Wild In The Uplands
Line of Best Fit
Electronic group The Avalanches have released a new single, "Every Single Weekend," featuring Jamie xx. This track continues their collaborative history with Jamie xx and is described by The Avalanches as a song about escapism and enjoying life.
Kiasmos, the duo of Ólafur Arnalds and Janus Rasmussen, are releasing "II Reworked," an album featuring reimagined tracks from their 2024 album "II." The project involves five diverse artists who brought their unique perspectives to the original songs, complemented by visual artists. The duo expresses excitement about this fusion of music and visuals.
Björk debuted a demo of her new song "Nerve Bloom" at the opening of her immersive exhibit "Echolalia" in Reykjavík. The exhibit, which runs until September 20, 2026, features reworkings of her "Fossora" tracks "Ancestress" and "Sorrowful Soil", and pairs "Nerve Bloom" with visuals by Natalia Kleszczewska and Natalie Liu.
SON Estrella Galicia has announced its summer concert series, featuring performances by ladylike and Insider Trading. The shows will take place in London throughout June and July, with free entry and tickets available for specific headliners.
Myer U Clark has released "Simple Sailing," the final single from his upcoming album "Tinderbox." The track explores themes of resilience and self-centering amidst unexpected difficulties, using a nautical metaphor and incorporating contemporary pop chord progressions.
Static Dress has announced their first UK/EU headline tour in four years, scheduled to begin this October. This tour follows their recent signing with Sumerian Records and the release of their second album, "injury episode."
Juno Download, a prominent digital retailer for electronic music genres, has ceased operations after two decades. The website has been replaced with a farewell message, directing users to alternative platforms while assuring them about existing orders.
Van Morrison has announced an additional London show at the New Wimbledon Theatre on September 26, 2026, due to high demand following his five-night residency at the British Airways ARC venue. This new date offers fans another chance to see the artist live in a historic Edwardian theatre.
Berlin-based artist Anna Lucia Nissen, also known as ANYX, has announced her debut solo album, "Starlink," set for release on August 28th. The album is described as a return to Nissen's visual art roots, featuring a "sculptural" approach to vocals and minimal instrumentation, exploring themes of man-made disruption of the natural world. A new single, "Ladybirds Spine," has also been unveiled, offering insight into the album's introspective and defiant lyrical themes.
Amazon Music has announced the artist lineup for its livestream of Primavera Sound Barcelona 2026. The free stream will feature performances from a wide array of artists including Geese, The Cure, Addison Rae, Big Thief, and many others, broadcasting across Amazon Music, Prime Video, and Twitch.
Pussy Riot has announced their debut album "CYKA," set for release on June 12th. The album features collaborations with artists like Avenged Sevenfold and B-Real, and notably lists Vladimir Putin as a contributor on the title track, a move the band uses to challenge him directly. The announcement was accompanied by the release of the single "CANDY DOPAMINE" and a protest video for the track "DISOBEY."
Austin's LEVITATION festival has announced its 2026 lineup, scheduled for September 10-13. Headliners include American Football, Bikini Kill, and Angine de Poitrine, among many other diverse acts across multiple venues. The festival, founded in 2008 as Austin Psych Fest, has expanded its booking to include various genres beyond its psychedelic rock roots.
The Mission, the influential goth-rock band formed from the ashes of The Sisters of Mercy, have announced a four-night 40th-anniversary residency at London's O2 Forum. Each night will focus on a different era or album, including "God's Own Medicine" played in full, fan-selected tracks, and material from their extensive 10-album discography. The band also confirmed new music is planned for 2027.
Australian rock band C.O.F.F.I.N. has announced a new documentary titled "10,000 Miles From Oslo" and an accompanying UK/EU tour. The film chronicles the band's two-decade journey, featuring archival footage and interviews, and will screen internationally throughout the summer and fall.
This article profiles the Canadian band Truck Violence, detailing their artistic evolution and thematic explorations on their new album, "The weathervane is my body." The band discusses their songwriting process, lyrical inspirations, and experiences navigating genre expectations, ultimately emphasizing the album's theme of being subject to external forces while creating art from intimacy and authenticity.
Rosa Walton's solo debut, "Tell Me It's a Dream," is a triumph of plaintive authenticity and euphoric indie pop, building on her work with Let's Eat Grandma. The album balances catchy hooks with thoughtful lyrics exploring growth and self-acceptance, offering a hopeful and vibrant listening experience. The verdict is that the album is effective and charming, inviting listeners to celebrate their own potential.
Los Campesinos! celebrated their 20th anniversary with the Vicennial Cringe tour, and photographer Sophie Barloc documented their Electric Ballroom show in London. The article focuses on the band's longevity and the fan experience.
This photo essay captures COBRAH's energetic performance at London's Kentish Town Forum on May 29, 2026. The images showcase the artist bringing heat to the stage during the concert.
Scottish electronic post-punk duo Doss is releasing their self-titled EP, featuring the standout track "YOUGOTSTYLE." The band discusses their evolution from punk-inflected hip hop to a more abrasive sound, their nuanced approach to political commentary in music, and their fascination with Americana, which heavily influenced "YOUGOTSTYLE." The article highlights the band's DIY ethos and their growing business acumen as they prepare for festival season.
Political punks Downtown Boys have released "Sirena," the third single from their upcoming album "Public Luxury," due out June 26. The track is inspired by a bolero standard and features a video by artist Sarah Elawad, with the band continuing their tradition of politically charged punk music.
Simple Things Festival has announced the first wave of artists for its 2026 edition, featuring guest curators Squid, Shabaka, and Jeremy Deller. This marks a new curatorial approach for the multi-venue event, which aims to inject fresh energy and experimental music into its 12th iteration across various Bristol city centre locations.
Austin psych-pop band Holy Wave have announced their new album, i'm DADA, due July 10th. The announcement comes with the release of the album's first single, "s33.u.in/HAL," a track that evolved from a near-discarded idea into a complex exploration of personal themes and technological anxieties.
Cara Delevingne has officially entered the music world with the release of her debut singles "I Forgot" and "Out of my Head," accompanied by a short film. The actor and model has signed with Warner Records, with her debut album anticipated for late summer, marking a significant step in her long-held musical aspirations.
Syd has announced her third solo album, Beard, set for release on July 17th. The album will feature contributions from various artists and marks her first full-length project in four years, with the title track inspired by self-acceptance and embracing individuality. Accompanying the announcement are new single "Callin" and upcoming UK tour dates.
Rowena Wise has announced her second album, 'Bad Things Feel Good*', set for release on August 7th. The album features the new single "Diamond In The Rough," which explores the loneliness of exceptionalism and encourages vulnerability. Wise describes the record as a shift towards a rawer live-band sound, delving into themes of intimacy and self-acceptance.
Dutch art-rock band De Staat has announced their seventh album, a self-titled LP due September 18th, accompanied by the new single "THE FIRE". The album's title reflects a deepening exploration of themes like power and the blurred lines between reality and fiction, with vocalist Torre Florim explaining the name now carries a new weight. The band has also planned a conceptual audiovisual live show for later this year.
Robyn's "Body Talk" trilogy from 2010 is being consolidated into a single double-vinyl release titled "Complete Body Talk" on July 17. This curated collection will present all three installments as one continuous body of work on coke bottle vinyl, marking a definitive physical edition of the era.
London dreamgaze duo atmos bloom have announced their second album, Everythingness, due July 24. They've also shared the lead single "Everything," which explores the impossible task of trying to be everything at once, reflecting the flux of young adulthood. The album promises a textured and mood-driven experience, drawing on a wider sonic palette than their previous work.
Taylor Bleu's debut single "Mad House" is an honest and heartbreaking alt-R&B track born from anger and personal struggle. The song, a cathartic outlet for Bleu, finds poetry in the ache and angst of his experiences, particularly his time as a carer, delivering a powerful and emotionally resonant debut.
Shania Twain is set to perform a special intimate show at The Shacklewell Arms in London on June 6, ahead of her upcoming album 'Little Miss Twain' due July 24. Tickets will be available via a ballot starting May 29.
effe's new single "Lick The Flame" is a rejuvenated trip-hop track that confronts feigned romance with gorgeously melancholic Y2K pop influences. The song, a taste of her upcoming EP "Solder", showcases effe's introspective songwriting and a downtempo sonic palette, making it a sincere modern excursion of the genre. The article highlights her musical journey, early influences, and collaborations that shaped the track.
Static Dress's new album, "injury episode," is a complex and dramatic exploration of fame, industry phoniness, and emotional scars. The band intentionally eschews modern trends of "robot music" and instant gratification, aiming for a more authentic and enduring artistic statement. While potentially challenging for some listeners, the album is praised for its depth and potential for long-term appreciation, marking a significant evolution from their previous work.
The electronic supergroup Doublespeak, comprised of Vince Clarke, Neil Arthur, and producer Benge, discusses their self-titled debut album. The project is a collection of reinterpreted songs that highlight the joy of collaboration and creative discovery between friends, with each member bringing their unique perspective to reinterpretations of diverse artists.
London trio Ebbb has released "Shallow Hits," the title track from their forthcoming debut album of the same name. The song, which moves away from their previous "Brian Wilson meets Death Grips" description, explores darker themes of seeking dopamine highs to escape emotional emptiness and self-sabotage.
Panda Bear (Noah Lennox) and Sonic Boom (Pete Kember) have announced their second collaborative album, "A ? of WHEN," due July 10. The album addresses online exhaustion while embracing a more "rock n' roll" approach, rejecting extensive online promotion in favor of real-world interactions.
Leeds electro-punk band Bathing Suits has been awarded the prestigious Steve Strange Award 2026 at The Great Escape festival. The band, recognized for their impactful performances and recent debut EP "KILL Bathing Suits," will receive £5,000 to aid their future career.
Grace Cummings has announced her new album, "Bloodhorse!", set for release on August 14th via ATO Records. The album, which features lead single "My God", explores themes of life, death, and personal transformation, with Cummings describing it as an attempt to express what she cannot say.
London-based artist Josh Caffé has signed with the dance label dh2 and announced his upcoming EP, 'The Velvet Hour,' due July 17. The EP's lead single, "Limousine," explores themes of infidelity and emotional avoidance, inspired by queer club culture and a desire for sonic experimentation.
Dublin quartet Gilla Band has released "Giraffe," their first new music in four years, a single out on Rough Trade Records. Vocalist Dara Kiely explained that the track explores his headspace, touching on feelings of loneliness and difficulty articulating thoughts, contrasted with an outro that acknowledges affection he finds hard to believe.
Ottawa-based producer Michael Watson, also known as fanclubwallet's drummer, is releasing their debut album as Preloved, titled Willow, on July 31st via Lauren Records. The announcement is accompanied by the release of the lead single "Motorcycle," a lo-fi track inspired by a desire for a dirtbike and featuring co-writing and vocals from Hannah Judge. Willow was self-produced and recorded in natural environments, incorporating field sounds.
Sabodi's debut project lead, "Flower$ in the Rain," showcases his potential by blending R&B and indie aspirations with a blend of emotional honesty and catchy delivery. The artist aims to be recognized for more than just his online freestyle persona, drawing inspiration from artists like Mac Miller to forge his own unique sound.
This article provides a photo essay of Flea and The Honora Band's performance at London's Koko, featuring a surprise appearance by Thom Yorke for a night of jazz. The piece focuses on capturing the visual essence of the event.
Strawberry Guy, the alias of Welsh artist Alex Stephens, has released his first new single in five years, "I'll Never Feel That Young Again". The track, produced by Stephens and mastered by Matt Colton, is described as an ode to the passage of time and a love letter from his older self to his younger self.
Lucia & The Best Boys have released "Big Romance," a new baroque-pop track featuring Abigail Morris of The Last Dinner Party. The song, previewing their upcoming album "Picking Petals," showcases a reunion and collaboration encouraged by Morris herself.
Iceland Airwaves has announced the initial lineup for its 27th edition, with Dove Ellis, Mammút, Arima Ederra, PISS, and Adult DVD topping the list. The festival will feature a mix of international and Icelandic artists, with special performances by Shygirl, Daði Freyr, and The Streets.
Girl Apocrypha (Emia Demir) is constructing her own narrative with the single "Thank God!," blending glitchy vocal experimentation with grunge-pop. The song explores loss and anger with a theatrical, vulnerable sound, drawing on a diverse range of influences and showcasing Demir's command of her persona. The article highlights her uncompromising approach to songwriting and her ability to build a compelling artistic identity.
The Bear Stone Festival has announced a special showcase curated by Croatian creative collective Purpurne Bašte for its 2026 edition. The showcase will feature four bands from Osijek's alternative music scene: Čuvarkuća, Vodenkonj, Layka, and Badel-Bager, performing on the Mill Stage on July 4th.
Violet Grohl's debut solo album, "Be Sweet To Me," is a highly accomplished and cohesive project that successfully channels 90s grunge and rock influences with a modern pop sensibility. The album's strength lies in its experimental yet cohesive sound, blending diverse elements into a unique and promising universe, earning it a strong "8/10" rating.
Greg Mendez's debut album for Dead Oceans, "Beauty Land," offers a concise and melancholic antidote to overstimulation, with most tracks clocking in under three minutes. While some beautiful ideas are cut short, the album's strength lies in its urgent rush and layered, melodic miniatures, earning it a 7/10.
Line of Best Fit: Playlists
Curated pick: Sofia Cordoba — Symptom of Love
Curated pick: Alex Amen — California Blues
Curated pick: Kat Duma — Chained (to you)
Curated pick: Nadia Loren — Wings of Desire
Curated pick: mary in the junkyard — New Muscles
Curated pick: Troy Javelona — DON'T GET MAD
Curated pick: Shadowman — Don't Assume
Curated pick: Bleech 9:3 — No Surprise
Curated pick: Ana Roxanne — One Shall Sleep
Curated pick: jo from school — Chicken
Curated pick: PawPaw Rod — Give It To Me Straight
Curated pick: Nina Winder-Lind — This is Our Life
Curated pick: Baby Berserk — Mind Explodes
Curated pick: Essence Martins — Can We All Slow Down
Curated pick: Saint Clair — Too Young To Notice
Curated pick: Slippers — Wasted Tonight
Curated pick: Sabodi — Flower$ in the Rain
Curated pick: Westside Cowboy — Kick Stones (The Boys)
Curated pick: she's green — empty house
Curated pick: KatzPascale — HOLD ME (SLOWLY)
Curated pick: The Twins — fucking creep
Curated pick: deBasement — STAY IN UR LANE
Curated pick: Rowena Wise — Diamond In The Rough
Curated pick: Formal Sppeedwear — Who Needs Spain Ball?
Curated pick: jasper dean — BEST BEST FRIEND
Curated pick: Iona Luke — Can We Still Hang Out?
Curated pick: Charlie Franklin — Take The Blame
Curated pick: Oisin Mod — Mirror Mirror
Curated pick: wing! — HOLD THEM TO IT
Curated pick: the sound chalk makes — CSM for bullshit
Curated pick: Biita Houdei — Life Inside the Hourglass
Curated pick: Jordan Patterson — Just My Friend
Curated pick: Lennie Rayen — What Now
Curated pick: Opus Kink — The Sweet Goodbye
Curated pick: Louie El Ser — Perra (i wanna be your dog)
Curated pick: Iona Luke — Can We Still Hang Out?
Curated pick: Iona Luke — Can We Still Hang Out?
Curated pick: deBasement — STAY IN UR LANE
Curated pick: Rowena Wise — Diamond In The Rough
Curated pick: Formal Sppeedwear — Who Needs Spain Ball?
Curated pick: jasper dean — BEST BEST FRIEND
Curated pick: Charlie Franklin — Take The Blame
Curated pick: Oisin Mod — Mirror Mirror
Curated pick: wing! — HOLD THEM TO IT
Curated pick: deBasement — STAY IN UR LANE
Curated pick: Rowena Wise — Diamond In The Rough
Curated pick: Formal Sppeedwear — Who Needs Spain Ball?
Curated pick: jasper dean — BEST BEST FRIEND
Curated pick: Charlie Franklin — Take The Blame
Curated pick: Oisin Mod — Mirror Mirror
Curated pick: wing! — HOLD THEM TO IT
NPR Music
Floetry delivered an "immaculate" vibe during their Tiny Desk concert, showcasing their journey from London to Philadelphia. The performance was a successful and vibrant display of their artistry.
AI company Anthropic has filed preliminary paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO), signaling its intention to sell stock to the public. This potential IPO, alongside others in the AI sector, could be one of the largest in U.S. history.
NPR's Adrian Florido speaks with Canadian-Iranian singer Navan about his new album, "Kisses on the Moon." The album features a blend of French, Persian, and English lyrics, aiming to bring life to his homeland.
Musicians are withdrawing from the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., leading Donald Trump to suggest holding a MAGA rally instead. The article focuses on artist cancellations due to the event's association with political figures.
Diehard Boards of Canada fans recall their quest in the Scottish countryside to find the band's elusive "Red Moon Party," coinciding with the release of the band's new album, 'Inferno'. The article focuses on the fan experience and the mystique surrounding the band.
This article commemorates the 100th birthday of jazz legend Miles Davis, recognizing him as one of the most innovative and influential musicians in the genre's history.
This article is an appreciation of tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins, who passed away on May 25th. Rollins was long considered the greatest living jazz musician, and the piece includes a listen back to his 1994 interview with Terry Gross.
Drake dominated the Billboard charts this week, setting new records for the number of songs and albums charting simultaneously. His massive presence effectively overshadowed older, established artists on the charts.
After four years of trying, Dallas hip-hop collective Cure For Paranoia finally earned a spot on NPR's Tiny Desk Concert series, showcasing their perseverance and talent. The article highlights their journey to this significant milestone in their career.
Pitchfork
Veeze's "Y'all Won" is a mixtape cobbled together from leaked material, which surprisingly benefits from its inherent looseness. Despite the unrefined nature, Veeze's personality and precise execution shine through, displaying consistency even when his hand is forced by the leak culture that has defined his career.
Kim Petras's new album "Detour" marks a significant artistic departure, trading superficiality for riskier, more exciting musical territory that blends club bangers with subtle pop gems. The album is a major course correction, finally allowing Petras to showcase her talents and eccentricities in a way that feels authentic and deeply personal, culminating in her greatest song to date, "Brutalist."
Hyd's new album, Hold Onto Me Infinity, is a dense, glassy electropop exploration of grief and personal transformation, using a deadpan affect and deliberate phrasing to convey raw emotion. While some moments lean into abstraction, the album ultimately finds power in its gutsy sound design and direct, personal tracks, offering an appreciably strange and heartfelt meditation on loss.
Tierra Whack has announced her new mixtape, "(Whack's Museum)", set for release on Juneteenth (June 19). The rapper also shared a phone number for fans to text their apologies and included a screenshot of positive feedback from André 3000 on an unreleased track.
Pitchfork Paris 2026 has announced its initial wave of artists, with Iceage, Bassvictim, and Charlotte Adigéry & Bolis Pupul set to headline. The festival, alongside Pitchfork London, will take place from November 2 to 8 across various venues in both cities. Ticket sales begin June 3.
Australian artist Julia Jacklin has signed with the label 4AD and announced extensive tour dates for 2026 and 2027, covering North America, Europe, and the UK. The announcement follows her 2022 album "Pre Pleasure" released on Polyvinyl.
The Avalanches have released "Every Single Weekend," a new single featuring a reunion with Jamie xx and a video directed by Jonathan Zawada. The track is described as being about letting go and enjoying the weekend, building on the band's previous collaborations and recent teaser campaign.
Ariana Grande has released a new horror-themed music video for her single "Hate That I Made You Love Me," directed by Christian Breslauer. The video stars Justin Long as Grande's murderous lover, who is haunted by her ghost after burying her.
Pitchfork's weekly playlist, "Pitchfork Selects," highlights songs that the publication's writers, editors, and contributors are currently listening to on repeat. This installment features a diverse selection of tracks from artists including Ravyn Lenae, the Durutti Column, and Tezzus, among others. The playlist's sole criterion is that the featured songs are ones that would be gladly shared with a friend.
Kelela has announced a North American and European tour supporting her upcoming album "New Avatar." The tour announcement coincides with the release of her latest single, "Point Blank," which explores themes of misogynoir in relationships. The article also mentions past releases and upcoming collaborations.
Charli XCX has announced her second album of 2026, titled 'Music, Fashion, Film,' set for release on July 24 via Atlantic. The album's cover art features notable figures John Cale, Marc Jacobs, and Martin Scorsese. This announcement follows two singles, accompanying 'b-sides,' a British Vogue cover story, and an Instagram post about her musical direction.
Feeble Little Horse's third album, 'bitknot,' is a heavier, glitched-out, and more ambitious record that expertly weaves critiques of big tech and capitalism into its crunchy indie rock sound. The album balances harshness with empathy, offering a compelling, beautifully arranged collection of songs that capture the struggle to find beauty within a flawed system.
Ecca Vandal's second album, "LOOKING FOR PEOPLE TO UNFOLLOW," is a vibrant exploration of feminist punk, blending diverse influences like jazz, bhangra, and hip-hop with raw energy. While occasionally spread thin across sonic avenues, the album largely succeeds in its bold self-expression and unique perspective, solidifying Vandal's distinctive artistic voice.
M.I.A. is suing Kid Cudi for allegedly causing Live Nation to breach their contract after she was removed from his tour. She claims Cudi's actions were intentional interference that cost her nearly $3 million in guarantees, merchandise sales, and other opportunities, and that her termination was a publicity stunt due to low ticket sales.
Doug Shaw, a veteran New York indie musician known for his work with Highlife and Gang Gang Dance, has died at age 43 following a stroke. Shaw was a prolific multi-instrumentalist who collaborated with numerous artists and left a significant mark on the New York music scene.
Jay-Z delivered a headline-grabbing performance at the Roots Picnic, featuring a diss-laden freestyle seemingly aimed at Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Kanye West, alongside a State Property reunion and renditions of his hits. The 90-minute set also served as a preview for upcoming performances celebrating his debut album.
This retrospective revisits Miles Davis's 1968 album "Filles de Kilimanjaro," highlighting its role as a transitional work that foreshadowed Davis's electric era and marked the swan song of his Second Great Quintet. The article emphasizes how the album captured seeds of innovation, influenced by figures like Jimi Hendrix and Betty Davis, and ultimately paved the way for Davis's groundbreaking 1970s output.
This article celebrates Big Country's 1983 hit "In a Big Country" as a triumphant and motivating anthem that transcends its frontman's personal struggles and the band's eventual decline. Despite early music video awkwardness and later stylistic shifts, the song's soaring guitars, poignant lyrics, and soulful vocals remain a powerful rallying cry about possibility and self-affirmation.
DJ Screw's extensive catalog of classic mixtapes is being released on streaming platforms for the first time, beginning with "DJ Screw Originals (Volume 1)". This move aims to make the chopped and screwed pioneer's influential work accessible to a wider audience, both long-time fans and new listeners, ensuring his legacy continues.
Gold Panda (Derwin Dicker) is set to release his new album, "Ton Up," on June 26 via Studio Barnhus. The album will feature eight "rough-hewn dance tracks and two cozy little service-station interludes," with a new single, "Ding the Motor," already available.
Nevada City, California, has officially declared May 27th "Joanna Newsom Day" in honor of the acclaimed harpist and singer-songwriter. The declaration was made during a City Council meeting where Mayor Adam Kline presented Newsom with the honor, celebrating her contributions to the city's cultural vitality. Newsom, who expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech reminiscing about her hometown and early career.
Big Thief has unveiled three new songs, "Carry," "Forgive the Dream," and "Space and Time," during an acoustic performance for Belgium's Radio 1 in an Irish field. The band also performed "Double Infinity" from their latest album and is currently on a European tour.
This article rounds up 10 new albums across various genres, highlighting new releases from Iceage, Boards of Canada, Kurt Vile, and others. Each entry offers a brief description of the album's sound, themes, and context, encouraging readers to explore the diverse musical landscape.
Syd has announced her third album, "Beard," set to release on July 17th via Free Lunch Records. The album, inspired by personal growth and her unique position in the music industry, features collaborations with several artists and will be supported by a UK and European tour.
Chief Keef and Katy Perry have resolved a decade-old online feud with a remix of Perry's 2013 song "Legendary Lovers," titled "Legendary Lovers (Save Me)." The news highlights their recent public reconciliation, including a hug and TikTok interactions, bringing closure to their past Twitter dispute.
Ariana Grande has released "Hate That I Made You Love Me," the lead single from her upcoming album "Petal," due July 31. The song, co-written and produced by Grande, Ilya, and Max Martin, is accompanied by a lyric video. The album is described as "full of life and growing through the cracks of something cold and hard and challenging."
Blood Orange has released "Essex_Honey.mp3," his first new song of 2026, which notably samples Sky Ferreira's "Everything Is Embarrassing." The track continues the themes from his 2025 album, Essex Honey, and was accompanied by a tour.
Boards of Canada's "Inferno" is their first album in 13 years and offers some of the most captivating music of their career, weaving occult imagery and enigmatic samples into a potent and gratifying listening experience. The album masterfully balances rhythm-heavy tracks with atmospheric interludes, creating a deeply immersive journey that solidifies their unique sound while exploring themes of faith, biology, and existential doubt.
JPEGMAFIA's latest album, EXPERIMENTAL RAP, is critiqued for relying on familiar lyrical tropes and a petulant persona, despite showcasing his explosive production skills. While the album offers moments of inventive sound design and bursts of vulnerability, it ultimately fails to live up to its title, feeling more like a plateau than a boundary-pushing effort.
Greg Mendez's 'Beauty Land' is a collection of deeply personal and emotionally resonant songs that explore themes of addiction, guilt, and alienation with remarkable plainspokenness. The album, Mendez's debut on Dead Oceans, maintains his signature intimate approach while subtly refining his sound, resulting in a starker, sharper profile that evokes comparisons to Elliott Smith.
Discovery Zone's "Library Copy Do Not Remove" is an ambitious ambient odyssey that uses synthscapes to explore heady concepts like the simulation hypothesis and Borges's "The Library of Babel." While the album doesn't fully coalesce its grand ideas, it remains a captivating listen with moments of textural complexity and rhythmic dynamism.
A 21-year-old man has been convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison for his role in a terror plot targeting a Taylor Swift Eras Tour concert in Vienna. The plot led to the cancellation of three shows, causing fear and guilt for the artist, who expressed her concerns publicly. Prosecutors alleged the defendant communicated with ISIS and attempted to acquire weapons for the attack.
Independent music platform Nina Protocol is shutting down due to an unsustainable revenue strategy, ceasing operations by July 15th. Founded in 2021, it aimed to empower artists with ownership and direct fan connections, offering a Web3-based streaming service, marketplace, and editorial content, but ultimately couldn't find a path to long-term stability.
Ezra Collective has announced their new album "Here Because Of Hope," set for release on September 18. They've also shared a new single, "Only Love," featuring Pa Salieu, and revealed details of an upcoming multi-continent tour.
4AD has launched a collection of World Cup-themed football jerseys inspired by their classic releases, including Cocteau Twins, Scott Walker, and Colourbox/Air Miami. The capsule collection also features a scarf and will see a portion of proceeds donated to the charity War Child.
The Levitation festival has announced its 2026 lineup, set to take place in Austin from September 10-13. Headliners include Bikini Kill, Smerz, and Molchat Doma, with performances also announced for American Football, Peter Hook, and Angine de Poitrine.
Ravyn Lenae has announced her third full-length album, "Blue Island," set to be released on August 7th. The album, described as a "point of arrival," will challenge traditional R&B and pop sounds, with Lenae aiming to "do my own thing." The announcement is accompanied by the release of a new single, "Handle," and details of an upcoming European tour.
Riot Fest has announced its 2026 lineup, with Alanis Morissette, Morrissey, and Tool set to headline the Chicago music event. The festival, known for its punk and rock focus, will return to Douglass Park from September 18-20 and feature over 100 artists including Patti Smith & Her Band and Iggy Pop.
The article profiles producer and songwriter underscores (April Harper Grey), detailing the creation of her latest album "U" and her artistic evolution. It highlights her journey from Minecraft videos and K-pop vlogging to embracing pop music and her unique production style, concluding that "U" is her most confident and successful work yet.
Chanel Beads has announced a North American tour for the fall, coinciding with the release of their new song "Dust in the Wind." The tour will support their upcoming album "Your Day Will Come," set to drop on June 26th via Jagjaguwar.
Jadasea has announced his forthcoming album, "Holly Grove," set to be released on June 25 via 10K. The South London rapper has also unveiled the lead single, "Cobra," accompanied by a music video.
Boards of Canada and their label Warp have condemned the Trump White House for using their song "Deep Time" in a political video without authorization. The White House also adopted the duo's signature aesthetic, adding to the controversy surrounding the unauthorized use.
Bladee's latest album, "Sulfur Surfer," offers a captivating atmosphere but occasionally falters by leaning too heavily into self-mythology and overly earnest fantasy. While the production remains stellar, Bladee's vocal performances and lyrical themes can feel overwrought, though moments of ethereal brilliance and compelling hooks still shine through. The album ultimately feels like a reprise of his past strengths, with uneven execution.
Eli's debut album, "Stage Girl," receives a deluxe reissue that doubles down on the artist's penchant for pop/R&B pastiche and trans angst, blending nostalgia with modern sensibilities. While the new tracks are often strong, they sometimes detract from the original album's narrative flow, leaving the artist with room to be riskier.
Car Seat Headrest's Will Toledo revisits his breakthrough album "Teens of Denial" with "Teen of Denial: Joe's Story," a partial revision that includes new songs and lyrical changes. While some tweaks are inconsequential or even detrimental, like the removal of profanity and altered vocal delivery, the project serves as a reminder of the original record's charm and offers moments of genuine optimism, particularly in its updated conclusion.
The Cramps' lost 1977 album, Gravest Gravy, is finally set for release on August 21 via Vengeance. The collection features previously unreleased recordings from sessions with producer Alex Chilton, unearthed and restored by Brian Kehew, with final mastering by Pete Lyman.
Gilla Band has announced their return with a new single titled "Giraffe" and an extensive tour schedule extending through 2027. The new song explores themes of loneliness and self-doubt, accompanied by a surreal music video.
The Chicks are celebrating the 20th anniversary of their 2006 album "Taking the Long Way" with a North American tour this fall. The tour will include stops in major cities and commemorates the album that followed their public criticism of George W. Bush and the subsequent backlash.
Flea and Thom Yorke reunited in London for a 20-minute jam session, covering Marvin Gaye's "Got to Give It Up" and performing Yorke's "Traffic Lights." This collaboration continues their post-Atoms for Peace musical partnership.
Panda Bear (Noah Lennox) and Sonic Boom (Pete Kember) have announced a new collaborative album titled "A ? of When," set for release on July 10th. The album will be available physically and via download, deliberately skipping streaming services as the artists aim to reconnect with listeners through real-world interactions. They shared a statement emphasizing a move away from online connectivity towards radio, live shows, and listening parties.
Wild Pink have announced their upcoming album, "Still Coming Down," due August 21st via Fire Talk. The record features collaborations with MJ Lenderman and Hand Habits, and its lead single "Round of Applause at the End of the World" has a new music video.
The Tallest Man on Earth, Kristian Matsson, has released a new song titled "Colors" and announced upcoming European and North American tour dates. This marks his first musical output since his 2023 album "Henry St."
Phoebe Bridgers makes her acting debut in A24's upcoming film "Primetime," starring alongside Robert Pattinson. The movie, which chronicles "To Catch a Predator," is directed by Lance Oppenheim and has a teaser trailer available, though no release date has been set.
Cornelius has announced his new album, Refractions, set to release on August 19. The album will feature collaborations with artists like Sean Ono Lennon, Arto Lindsay, and Shintaro Sakamoto. Cornelius described the album as a structural exploration of continuity and transformation influenced by the changing world.
Cult Manchester band The Durutti Column has announced their first new album in 16 years, titled 'Renascent', due out July 31. The announcement coincides with the release of a new single, "Liars," and follows the recent reissue of their debut.
Pitchfork: Playlists
Curated pick: Fox BD — Stratxh My Bakk, Ima Stratxh Yours
Curated pick: Twisted Teens — Wild Connection
Curated pick: Tezzus — Step Child (feat. Hittman)
Curated pick: Kim Petras — Need For Speed
Curated pick: Martyn — No One Plays The Game
Curated pick: Twisted Teens — Is It Real?
Curated pick: fakemink — Night , Blooming Jasmine .
Curated pick: Safety Trance — no me quiero dormir
Curated pick: Ricardo Villalobos — Orin - Ricardo Villalobos Variation
Curated pick: TYGAPAW — Exorcise the Language of Domination
Curated pick: Ratboys — Just Want You to Know the Truth
Curated pick: Sophia Stel — Bitches Talk Shit
Curated pick: Ratboys — Light Night Mountains All That
Curated pick: Ruth Garbus — I Think I'm Ready Now
Curated pick: Nine Inch Nails — Heresy - Nine Inch Noize Version
Curated pick: LORD JAH-MONTE OGBON — Nah, You're Mad Extra
Curated pick: Boards of Canada — Prophecy At 1420 MHz
Curated pick: LORD JAH-MONTE OGBON — Instagram Highlights
Curated pick: Hercules & Love Affair — Crossed Lines - Mr.Fingers Acid Mix
Curated pick: Sideshow — HEART 2 A FEATHER
Curated pick: Stepford Wives — Good Morning Explosion
Curated pick: LORD JAH-MONTE OGBON — I'm Signed to Lex Now I'm Up
Curated pick: Nina Winder-Lind — This is Our Life
Curated pick: Sideshow — KILL FROM THE HEART
Curated pick: Twisted Teens — 100 Bill Is Gone!
Curated pick: Nia Archives — Boys In Blue
Curated pick: Tara Clerkin Trio — Somewhere Good
Curated pick: Grace Ives — Stupid Bitches
Curated pick: Isaiah Rashad — THE NEW SUBLIME
Curated pick: Fox BD — Stratxh My Bakk, Ima Stratxh Yours
Curated pick: Sexy Lazer — Mango (No Salsa)
Curated pick: Martyn — No One Plays The Game
Stereogum
SXSW London is facing significant challenges as Earl Sweatshirt has been forced to withdraw due to injury, and political commentators Hasan Piker and Cenk Uygur have been denied entry to the UK. The festival is attempting to proceed with its programming while addressing these setbacks and the ensuing controversy.
Julia Jacklin has signed with 4AD Records and announced an extensive tour spanning North America and Europe. The signing suggests a new album is imminent, with fans anticipating her next release following the acclaimed "Pre Pleasure."
Hurry's new single "Moving After You" is a wistful, jangly power-pop track featuring Gerard Love of Teenage Fanclub. The song combines soft, dreamy elements with a surging purpose and a triumphant guitar solo, creating a "full circle" moment for Hurry's Matt Scottoline.
Taylor Swift has announced a new original song, "I Knew It, I Knew You," for the upcoming "Toy Story 5" movie. The track, co-written and produced with Jack Antonoff, is set to release this Friday and marks Swift's return to her country roots, fulfilling a long-held dream of writing for the beloved Pixar franchise.
Parts & Labor return with their new single "Arterial Material," a "fast, dazed, synth-damaged freakout" that grapples with health issues and the inadequacies of healthcare systems. The track features feedback from the singer's hearing aids and samples from audiology tests and MRIs, offering a complex emotional landscape of frustration and gratitude. Their new album, "Set Of All Sets," is due next month.
The Avalanches have released the full version of their collaborative track "Every Single Weekend" featuring Jamie xx. The song, which previously appeared as an interlude on Jamie xx's "In Waves" album, is described as funky and evocative, encapsulating a theme of escaping the daily grind to enjoy weekends. The track also features a new music video.
Chicago post-punk band Cel Ray has announced their debut album, "Cel Rayzer," due out July 24 via Exploding In Sound. The album's lead single, "Price Of Gas," is a frantic garage-punk track exploring the anxieties of rising fuel costs and a man's obsession with them.
Ariana Grande has released the music video for her new single "Hate That I Made You Love Me," which features Justin Long. The video's narrative sees Long haunted by Grande's memory after a symbolic burial. The song itself is described as a midtempo track, a departure for Grande, and is the lead single from her upcoming album "petal."
Kelela has released a new single, "point blank," from her upcoming album "new avatar." The track blends drum 'n' bass and UK garage influences to create a minimal and intimate soundscape, while Kelela's lyrics explore the emotional labor in relationships. The article also announces Kelela's tour dates.
Björk has previewed a new song, "Nerve Bloom," at the opening of her "Echolalia" immersive exhibit in Reykjavík. The exhibit features reimagined songs from "Fossora" and the new track, accompanied by visuals from painter Natalia Kleszczewska and CGI director Natalie Liu, with Björk serving as creative director.
Phoebe Bridgers has announced a surprise one-dollar concert at Madison Square Garden this Thursday, continuing her pattern of intimate, low-announced shows. This event, alongside recent studio photos, fuels speculation about an upcoming album release.
Charli XCX has officially announced her new album, "Music, Fashion, Film," set to release in July. The album's cover art features notable figures John Cale, Marc Jacobs, and Martin Scorsese. Charli XCX expressed that the album is different from her previous work and embraces personal preference from listeners.
Experimental rap artist JPEGMAFIA is removing the track "Tsar Bomba" from his new album "Experimental Rap" due to a sample dispute with the punk band We Weren't Invited. The dispute arose after a Reddit user, claiming to be a friend of We Weren't Invited, accused JPEGMAFIA of "ripping off" the band without credit or compensation. JPEGMAFIA stated he is removing the song because of accusations of theft, rather than the licensing negotiation itself.
This "Alternative Number Ones" review critiques Live's 1997 single "Lakini's Juice" from their album "Secret Samadhi." The author finds the song to be a pretentious and musically inept "mess," with baffling lyrics and an ugly sonic palette. Despite a somewhat effective chorus and a strong final minute, the song is ultimately deemed a low point for the band, signaling the end of their relevance. The article also delves into the band's tumultuous history and internal conflicts.
Rapper M.I.A. is suing Kid Cudi for $2.8 million after being removed from his "Rebel Ragers" tour. She alleges her dismissal was a publicity stunt to boost tour ticket sales and constituted a breach of contract, leading to significant financial losses.
Jay-Z made a highly anticipated return to the stage at the Roots Picnic, delivering a career-spanning 35-song set. During a freestyle, he notably dissed Drake, Kanye West, and Nicki Minaj, referencing recent controversies and perceived slights. The performance also featured numerous guest appearances from artists like Jazmine Sullivan and Meek Mill.
Peter Gabriel has released "A Hard Lesson," the latest song from his forthcoming album "i/o," which is being released song by song on a full moon schedule. The "quirky" track is the oldest on the album, originating in the late '80s or early '90s and refined over decades.
Boards of Canada's new album "Inferno" features a track, "The World Becomes Flesh," used in the end credits of the newly released film "Backrooms." Director Kane Parsons cited Boards of Canada and other ambient artists as inspirations, drawing parallels between the film's unsettling atmosphere and the band's signature sound. This collaboration is presented as a fitting and authorized use of the band's music.
Donald Trump has reacted to several artists dropping out of his planned Freedom 250 concert series by calling them "third rate" on Truth Social. He is now considering replacing the musicians with a rally for patriots, claiming he draws larger crowds than Elvis.
Fiona Apple has co-written a song titled "Need It" for Cara Delevingne's upcoming debut album. Delevingne expressed that Apple's artistic influence was crucial to her feeling comfortable enough to be herself during the creative process. The track is described as "club-ready" and is part of Delevingne's first foray into releasing original music.
The fictional band Crucifictorious from the TV show Friday Night Lights reunited for the show's 20th anniversary at the ATX TV Festival. Stars Jesse Plemons and Stephanie Hunt performed a cover of Daniel Johnston's "Devil Town," which Hunt praised as "one of the best songs ever."
Italian authorities have canceled upcoming concerts by Ye and Travis Scott in Reggio Emilia due to public order and security concerns. The decision followed similar cancellations in other countries and protests from local groups, though Ye's concert in the Netherlands is still scheduled to proceed.
Doug Shaw, a musician known for his work in Gang Gang Dance, Highlife, and Janka Nabay's band, has died at the age of 43. His passing was confirmed by former bandmate Lizzi Bougatsos and mourned by fellow musicians who remembered his unique contributions to the indie music scene.
Keenan O'Meara's new single "Halley's Comet" is a strong preview of his upcoming debut album, "Bathe In The Everlasting Light." The song is praised for its lush production, O'Meara's compelling vocals, and an eerie guitar solo, suggesting his album will be a significant release.
A federal judge has ordered that Donald Trump's name be removed from the Kennedy Center and has blocked the venue's planned closure for renovations. The judge ruled that the board illegally renamed the center and that the closure plan lacked sufficient consideration of its statutory obligations.
Bb trickz returns with "A La Mala," a high-energy track built on a warped sample of The Cardigans' "My Favorite Game." The song is praised for its aggressive, hi-octane sound, making it an ideal choice for loud playback.
Paul McCartney has released his new album, "The Boys Of Dungeon Lane," and also appeared on the charmingly awkward celebrity interview series "Chicken Shop Dates." The article finds the juxtaposition of McCartney's new music promotion with his appearance on the show delightful and amusing.
Stereogum's weekly roundup highlights five standout new songs, offering a curated selection for listeners. This week's picks include tracks from Melaina Kol, knitting, Charli XCX, Olivia Rodrigo, and Wild Pink, each celebrated for their unique artistic merits.
She & Him performed their 2006 song "I Thought I Saw Your Face Today" on Jimmy Kimmel Live! for the first time in four years, following its unexpected resurgence as a TikTok hit. This marks the duo's first performance since their 2022 Brian Wilson tribute album, and they are gearing up for a fall tour.
Pearly Drops have announced an expanded edition of their album 'The Voices Are Coming Back,' titled 'The Voices Became Louder,' featuring remixes and contributions from various artists. The expanded version reimagines the original tracks through collaborations, with the duo expressing excitement about working with admired artists.
This article highlights a new single from Credit Electric, featuring the A-side "We'll Laugh About It Later" and the B-side "Lacking Purpose On The Fire Escape." The author praises the single for its elegant, downcast, yet powerful sound, drawing comparisons to their previous album "SALVATION" and suggesting it may be even more impactful.
Laufey and Tegan And Sara will be appearing as musical guests in a new double-episode of The Simpsons titled "Extreme Makeover: Homer Edition" on Disney+ on June 17th. The episode's plot centers around Marge's fantasies of a different Homer after a date night goes awry.
Dave Davies of The Kinks recounted meeting serial killer John Wayne Gacy in 1965, noting that Gacy "was so nice" and that Davies was scared of clowns. The story emerged on Billy Corgan's podcast, "The Magnificent Others," where Davies shared his unsettling encounter with the future murderer.
Gold Panda has announced a new album titled "TON UP," set for release on June 26th. The announcement is accompanied by the release of its lead single, "Ding The Motor," which is described as energetic and kinetic, drawing comparisons to big beat and hip-hop breakbeats while retaining Gold Panda's characteristic subtlety.
This article profiles BabyChiefDoIt, detailing his journey from early deceptive practices to becoming a recognized Chicago drill artist. It focuses on his upcoming project 'RAMBO' (Rise Against My Broken Odds), which aims to reflect his personal growth and overcoming life's challenges, including past struggles with fame and a renewed focus on spirituality.
Irish artist CMAT has expressed deep sadness over the body-shaming comments she's received following her performance at BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend festival. An article highlights the persistent and worsening abuse she faces as her visibility increases, contrasting the treatment of CMAT with other female performers.
Katy Perry and Chief Keef have released a remix of Perry's 2013 track "Legendary Lovers," effectively squashing a minor public disagreement from over a decade ago. While Perry initiated the collaboration with a TikTok video, Keef's contribution to the remix is noted as not entirely comfortable on her musical style, with the article suggesting the favor could be returned with a "Faneto" remix.
Kim Petras discusses her new self-released album, "Detour," which marks a departure from major labels and embraces a more experimental, personal sound. The album is described as her strongest to date, focusing on reinvention through disorder, personal history, and creative off-roading, with Petras feeling more understood than ever by its reception.
Nevada City, California, officially declared May 29th as Joanna Newsom Day, honoring the artist with the key to the city. Newsom delivered a speech expressing her gratitude, highlighting the significance of the recognition and crediting childhood friend Adam Kline with facilitating her career through his connection to Will Oldham and Drag City Records.
Thirty Seconds To Mars is experimenting with a new ticketing system for their upcoming tour that requires fans to scan their eyeballs to verify they are human and combat scalpers. This system, called Concert Kit, uses World ID technology to create a digital passport, though the band is offering an opt-out for some tickets.
Syd has announced her new album "Beard," set for release this summer. The lead single "Callin," featuring Blu June, has been released and is described as a short, evocative alt-soul track with a late-'90s R&B sound. Syd discusses the album's theme of embracing insecurities and owning self-confidence.
An Austrian man has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for planning a terror attack targeting Taylor Swift's Eras Tour concerts in Vienna. The suspect, identified as Beran A, pleaded guilty to terrorism-related offenses, including attempting to create explosives and acquire illegal weapons. Swift's Vienna shows were cancelled due to the security threat, prompting a statement from the artist expressing gratitude to authorities and solidarity with her fans.
Blood Orange has released a new single, "Essex_Honey.mp3," which shares its title with a recent album and builds upon the project's established sound. The track is described as a woozy, rave-beat-driven meditation that samples Sky Ferreira's "Everything Is Embarrassing," a song co-written by Dev Hynes.
Flo Rida is the only prominent artist booked for the Trump-backed Freedom 250 Great American State Fair concerts who has not publicly addressed the controversy surrounding the event. While other artists have dropped off, Flo Rida's silence, potentially punctuated by a cry-laughing emoji on Instagram, suggests a willingness to perform regardless of public opinion, consistent with his reputation for playing private events for high fees.
Ariana Grande has released "Hate That I Made You Love Me," the lead single from her upcoming album "petal." The track, co-written and produced by Grande, ILYA, and Max Martin, is described as a potential hit with an eerie, yet charming melody reminiscent of Modern Talking's "Cheri Cheri Lady." Grande herself expressed immense excitement for the song and the "petal" era.
Multiple artists are withdrawing from the "Freedom 250" concert celebrating America's 250th anniversary due to its increasingly divisive political association. Notable acts like Morris Day And The Time, Young MC, The Commodores, Martina McBride, and Bret Michaels have pulled out, citing concerns over the event's messaging and the potential for division, despite initial intentions for a non-partisan celebration. Factions within Milli Vanilli and C+C Music Factory are also clashing over participation and the use of their names.
Members of the Japanese action comic punk band Peelander-Z were critically injured when their tour van was rear-ended by a semi-truck in Albuquerque. The band members are recovering from serious traumas including broken bones and fractured vertebrae, with recovery prospects described as promising despite the severity of the accident.
Levitation Festival has announced its full lineup for the 2026 event, scheduled for September 10-13 in Austin. Headliners include American Football and Bikini Kill, with a diverse range of other performers across various genres.
Man/Woman/Chainsaw's new single "Goddamn, Lizard Man!" warns about manipulative, "soul-sucking humans" disguised as desirable individuals. The track, featuring Billy Ward on vocals, is a "proggy PSA" from their upcoming debut album, Cannonball.
Chanel Beads has released a new song, "Dust In The Wind," which is not a cover of the Kansas classic but rather an original philosophical musing. The track is described as nice, starting skeletal before building with drum loops and synths, and is featured on the forthcoming album "Your Day Will Come."
A Google software engineer has been charged with insider trading after making over $1.2 million by betting on d4vd becoming Google's most-searched person of 2025, utilizing confidential company search data. The engineer has been placed on leave by Google for this breach of policy.
Boards of Canada are displeased that their new track "Deep Time" was used in a Donald Trump White House propaganda video without their consent. Their label, Warp Records, released a statement condemning the unauthorized use of their music for political messaging.
deBasement, the duo of Alli Logout and Margo XS, have released a new single, "STAY IN UR LANE." The track is described as a ferocious, high-gloss banger perfect for a sweaty summer anthem, featuring metal clanks and an engine-revving beat.
Ravyn Lenae has announced her third album, "Blue Island," set for release on August 7th, accompanied by the lead single "Handle." The album, executive produced by Dahi, explores Lenae's evolving artistic identity and challenges genre conventions, drawing influences from diverse artists and musical styles.
Riot Fest's 2026 lineup has been announced, and the article expresses bewilderment at its eclectic and seemingly contradictory booking choices, questioning the philosophy behind the selections. Despite the confusion, the author notes that attendees can still curate a positive experience by focusing on the numerous great bands listed.
Many Rooms, the project of Houston-based musician Brianna Hunt, has returned after a hiatus with a new two-song EP, "Death & Life." The tracks "You're Gonna Die" and "Reunion" are described as spare, haunted doom-folk, drawing comparisons to artists like Grouper and early Low.
IAN SWEET's new single "Jilian" is a deeply introspective track where the artist confronts herself, exploring the humor and cruelty of life's small mistakes. Medford describes the song as a "reset button," an act of speaking aloud the things she's been avoiding, ultimately realizing there's still much life to live. The self-deprecation is noted as chic, making the song relatable.
This article profiles the unique journey of Chariots Overdrive, an Atlanta-based metal band composed entirely of Chinese immigrants who blend traditional Chinese influences with classic heavy metal. The piece details their individual musical paths, the organic formation of the band, and the creation of their debut album, "The End Of Antiquity," highlighting its idiosyncratic and invigorating sound. It concludes by emphasizing the band's honest, unique approach to heavy metal, shaped by their personal histories and cultural backgrounds.
Ebbb's new single "Shallow Hits" is a mesmeric, synth-heavy track that builds suspense before a crystalline chorus. The song explores themes of chasing dopamine highs to escape emotional emptiness and the resulting self-sabotage.
Johanna Warren returns with her new single "brave & capable," a sparse, acoustic guitar-led track that showcases her acute lyrical powers. The song, self-released and recorded alone, features heavy aphorisms and unfolds like a conversation between friends seeking breakthroughs.
Mynolia, the indie folk artist based in Nashville, has released a new single titled "Needle." The song is a gentle, hypnotic, and pretty home-recorded piece featuring soft harmonies, acoustic guitar, and contributions from pedal steel player Spencer Cullum.
Starcleaner Reunion returns with their first official single, "Weather Instrument," a track that channels influences like Broken Social Scene and Stereolab. The song, which explores the concept of home and comfort, features a collaboration with Gary Olson on trumpet.
Tom Morello is organizing the "Power To The People" festival, scheduled for October 3rd outside of Washington, DC. The event will feature a star-studded lineup including Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, and Dave Matthews, among many others with left-leaning political ties. The festival aims to celebrate peace and justice while also highlighting civic engagement opportunities.
C+C Music Factory rapper Freedom Williams defended his decision to perform at Donald Trump's "Freedom 250" event in a lengthy, expletive-laden rant on Instagram, criticizing "keyboard warriors" who called for cancellations. He stated he would sooner vote for historical figures like Hitler than be dictated to by social media critics, while also expressing controversial opinions on vaccines and other artists.
Kristin Hersh has announced her new album, "Sugar On Blackstone," due out September 18th via Fire Records. The announcement comes with the release of the new single "Dark-Eyed Junco," a track that delves into Hersh's reflections on childhood, family, and loss. The album promises to continue Hersh's exploration of personal themes, as evidenced by the evocative lyrical passages shared.
Young MC has announced he will not perform at Donald Trump's "Freedom 250 Celebration" due to the event's political involvement. This follows Morris Day's earlier withdrawal, making the concert series lineup increasingly questionable.
Olivia Rodrigo addresses controversy surrounding her babydoll dresses, asserting that the criticism, rather than her attire, reveals a societal tendency to normalize pedophilia. She defends her fashion choices as inspired by musical heroes and pushes back against victim-blaming rhetoric.
Morris Day & The Time have withdrawn from the upcoming Freedom 250 concert series, citing political involvement as the reason. Young MC has also reportedly dropped off the bill for similar reasons.
Melbourne artist Way Dynamic has signed with Jagjaguwar and announced their first North American tour. The label will give their successful album "Massive Shoe" an international release, with comparisons drawn to artists like Brian Wilson, Neil Young, and The Kinks.
Downtown Boys are releasing their first LP since 2017, "Public Luxury," on June 26. The new single "Sirena" explores themes of guidance and societal change, with the band sharing a video featuring archival footage. The article highlights the meaning behind the song and includes its Spanish and English lyrics.
The Tallest Man On Earth (Kristian Matsson) returns with "Colors," a lovely user-friendly folk-rock song featuring fingerpicking, horns, and strings. The track is a success, with the critic praising its arrangement and Matsson's vocals, declaring it passes "with flying colors."
Jesus Is The Path To Heaven have announced their new album "Power!" and shared its lead single, "The Lord Has Bled A Line." The track is described as a blend of stark Americana and heavy metal, exploring themes of religious trauma and the intersection of religion, politics, and Southern culture.
Lorg's new single "Marathonia" is an excellent indie-pop track that flows with irresistible momentum, featuring wistful vocals and chillwavey guitar strums. The artist, Lauren Morgan, describes the song as a complete and energetic creation inspired by personal relationships and a friend's move.
Hew, a new band featuring members of Football, etc., has released their latest single "Reconciliation." The article praises the "stormy, soaring rocker" and its energetic impact, comparing its upward surges to Rainer Maria at their peak. The debut album "Your Version" is set for release on July 10th via Tiny Engines.
Donald Trump's "Freedom 250" concert series for America's 250th birthday has announced a lineup heavy on 90s pop acts like Milli Vanilli and Vanilla Ice, aiming to "make America 1990 again." The article expresses skepticism about the performances, especially given the dubious legacies of some booked acts, and notes that Morris Day & The Time and Young MC have since dropped out due to a lack of clarity on the event's political affiliations.
Gilla Band returns with a powerful new single, "Giraffe," showcasing their evolution from noise-rockers to incorporating thumping industrial dance elements. The track is described as an absolute banger, exploding into a new sonic territory halfway through.
This article highlights knitting's new single "I Wasn’t Fully Cooked" from their upcoming album "Souvenir." The track is praised for its rhythmic foundation and emotional depth, with the band's Mischa Dempsey sharing the personal significance behind the song's lyrics.
Members of the death metal band Tomb Mold have announced their debut math-rock album, "Second Last Day of Summer," as their new project Daydream Plus. The album, set for release on July 10th, will feature guest appearances and a chiptune version released on a limited NES-compatible cartridge.
A Perfect Circle has released a surprise new single, "Starless," marking their first new music since the "Sessanta E.P.P.P." released for Maynard James Keenan's 60th birthday. The track is described as classic A Perfect Circle, featuring a proggy, heavy, and melodious sound, and will be debuted live on their upcoming European tour.
Michael (Miki) Watson, a member of fanclubwallet, has announced their debut album as Preloved, titled "Willow," due July 31st. The album, recorded solo on camping trips, features spare acoustic tracks with an outsider-art charm, including the lead single "Motorcycle" which features Hannah Judge. The article highlights the personal recording process and the lyrical inspiration behind the lead single.
Holy Wave has announced their new album "i'm DADA", set to release in July. The announcement is accompanied by the release of its lead single, "s33.u.in/HAL," a track that blends hallucinatory shoegaze guitar with the band's signature psych-pop.
Nashville power trio Lockstep has announced their debut album, "I Know What I Saw," due out July 24th via Profound Lore. The band, known for their heavy shoegaze sound, shared the queasy, doomy lead single "Ash In The Water," which is noted as being prettier than much of the label's usual output.
Cam'ron has settled his lawsuit with J. Cole over alleged non-payment for a featured verse, with terms undisclosed. However, Cam'ron has seemingly ignored a recent Verzuz challenge from his former Dipset comrade Jim Jones, a matchup the article predicts would be a one-sided affair.
Melaina Kol, the project of Logan Hornyak, has announced their new album "Okay that’s a great idea because if I do that then," due out August 14th. The lead single "Lifeheart" showcases an unconventional indie-pop sound with spliced vocals from Olivia O. and intricate guitar work, described as gorgeous and hypnotic.
Panda Bear and Sonic Boom have announced a new album, "A ? Of WHEN," set for release on July 10th. Notably, the album will not be available on streaming platforms, as the artists aim to prioritize "real life interactions." The title track, described as having "serious Pet Sounds energy," is available for download with album pre-orders.
The article explores Jump Source's debut album "Fold," highlighting its evolution from studio experimentation to a full-length release featuring diverse collaborators. It also provides brief reviews and ratings for several tracks from the "PEAK TIME" section of the publication.
The Durutti Column, pioneers of Factory Records and influential '80s new wave artists, are releasing their first album in 16 years, titled "Renascent." The album features a revisited track from 1980 and a lead single, "Liars," that captures their classic sound with mature perspective.
Phoebe Bridgers makes her acting debut in the first teaser for A24's upcoming movie "Primetime," inspired by "To Catch A Predator." The film, directed by Lance Oppenheim and starring Robert Pattinson, will also feature Merritt Wever and Skyler Gisondo, and is slated for a fall release.
Wild Pink have announced their new album Still Coming Down, out August 21st, and shared its lead single "Round Of Applause At The End Of The World." The track features members of Wednesday and Hand Habits, and the article praises its energetic, Southern-fried slacker rock sound and lyrical content.
Thom Yorke and Flea collaborated on stage in London, performing both Flea's new song "Traffic Lights" and a cover of Marvin Gaye's "Got to Give It Up." The article details their musical history and their recent performances together.
Stereogum: Playlists
Curated pick: Carla dal Forno — Going Out
Curated pick: Office Dog — Front Row Seat
Curated pick: Dutch Interior — Go Fuck Yourself
Curated pick: Kacey Musgraves — Dry Spell
Curated pick: Slippers — Wants For Everyone
Curated pick: Kelsey Lu — Running To Pain
Curated pick: Fire-Toolz — Balam =^..^= Says IPv09082024 Strawberry Head
Curated pick: Office Dog — Front Row Seat
Curated pick: Slippers — Wants For Everyone
Curated pick: King Tuff — Stairway To Nowhere
Curated pick: Kelsey Lu — Running To Pain
Curated pick: Gia Margaret — Alive Inside
Curated pick: Fire-Toolz — Balam =^..^= Says IPv09082024 Strawberry Head
Curated pick: Dari Bay — We're Gonna Be Okay
Curated pick: King Tuff — Stairway To Nowhere
Curated pick: Slippers — Fool In Your Room
Curated pick: Gia Margaret — Alive Inside
Curated pick: Fire-Toolz — Balam =^..^= Says IPv09082024 Strawberry Head
Curated pick: Snarls — No Lock, No Prayer
Curated pick: Dari Bay — We're Gonna Be Okay
Curated pick: Slippers — Fool In Your Room
The Needle Drop
Anthony Fantano reviews Bladee's "Sulfur Surfer", finding it largely underwhelming and uninteresting. Despite Bladee's ambitious attempts to incorporate diverse genres, Fantano believes the album fails to reach the transcendence of his inspirations, with typical tracks being the most enjoyable but still unremarkable.
The sophomore album 'Terrified' from fakemink is a pretentious slog that, despite some distinct production and vocal quirks, ultimately suffers from a lack of depth, half-hearted flows, and redundant production. The album fails to live up to the anticipation and the artist's own pronouncements, resulting in a decent-to-strong 5 out of 10.
Genesis Owusu's "Redstar Wu & The Worldwide Scourge" is an ambitious and versatile album that tackles dark global themes with bold satire and musical diversity. While some tracks falter and the ending is less impactful than the start, the majority of the album is a thrilling showcase of Owusu's songwriting and vocal prowess, earning it a strong 8/10.
This review of leroy's "status update music" highlights the album's dense, experimental, and overwhelming electronic production, heavily reliant on sampling. While acknowledging the impressive production and some standout tracks, the reviewer finds the album becomes predictable and overly chaotic, ultimately enjoying leroy's other projects more, but still rates it a "decent-to-strong 7."
This installment of The Needle Drop's Weekly Track Roundup covers a variety of new releases, with Olivia Rodrigo's "The Cure" and Big Freedia's "Assphreakage" (produced by Sophie) receiving particularly high praise, while The Strokes' "Falling Out of Love" is heavily criticized. The roundup offers a critical but often enthusiastic overview of the week's most notable singles.
Anthony Fantano reviews JPEGMAFIA's "EXPERIMENTAL RAP," an album that grapples with the artist's controversial collaborations and online persona. While acknowledging moments of brilliance and experimental flair, the review ultimately finds the album to be a mixed bag, falling short of its potential due to inconsistent execution and a perceived lack of focus, leading to a 'strong 6' verdict.
The Quietus
Rough Trade Records founders Geoff Travis and Jeannette Lee reflect on 50 years of the influential independent label by highlighting ten essential tracks. They discuss their ethos of community, artistic integrity, and supporting unique voices, often in defiance of commercial pressures. The interview emphasizes the label's commitment to diverse genres and artists, from The Fall to Dean Blunt, underscoring their distinctive approach to artist development and curation.
This article explores Latvia's vibrant and experimental music scene, highlighting a generation of artists and institutions driven by curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to blend diverse genres. It emphasizes the scene's departure from stylistic purity and market expectations, fostering a unique ecosystem of interconnected artistic practices.
Neptune returns after over a decade with "Play Some Music," an album of "sublime junkyard noise rock." The trio's unique sound, built on homemade instruments and dark lyrical themes, remains unpredictable and re-energized.
Kelela has released a new song, 'point blank,' the third preview from her upcoming album 'new avatar.' The track delves into themes of misogynoir and the emotional labor involved in romantic relationships where partners expect unending support.
Charli xcx has announced her new 11-track album, 'Music, Fashion, Film,' set to be released next month. This marks her second full-length release of 2026, following her soundtrack album for 'Wuthering Heights.' The album features recent singles 'Rock Music' and 'SS26' and includes collaborations and nods to influential figures in music, fashion, and film.
Juno Download, a digital music retailer that operated for two decades, has abruptly shut down. The closure is attributed to the rise of music streaming and direct-to-fan services, which have diminished the significance of traditional music webstores. Juno Records, the company's vinyl retail arm, remains operational.
This article announces the release of the Subscriber-Exclusive May Playlist, featuring over five hours of music from various artists discussed in recent publications. It also highlights other subscriber perks like podcasts, newsletters, and essays, encouraging new sign-ups to support the publication.
Kikù Hibino and Merzbow's collaborative album "Rococo ∞ Echomatter" is a primal, meteorological sound experience, often described as a thunderstorm of distorted chaos and tape rewinds. The album showcases a dynamic range from disintegrative jazz to industrial textures, ultimately offering a fragmented, electric, and supercharged listening experience.
This retrospective examines Radiohead's 2001 album "Amnesiac" 25 years after its release, arguing it was a prescient reflection of the new digital century's anxieties and precarity rather than just a contrarian move. Despite its challenging nature, the album resonated with a growing popular dissatisfaction with political promises, becoming a soundtrack to the era's fragmentation and paranoia.
Sapphire Goss discusses her debut album, "Light Sensitive Materials," which utilizes experimental techniques involving archival film, optical sound effects, and sonified light data. Goss emphasizes her fascination with the physical and evocative qualities of decaying film, aiming to create something new from old materials rather than simply evoking nostalgia. The album, born from a period of personal upheaval, is noted for its cathartic yet unsettling emotional resonance.
Independent music platform Nina Protocol is shutting down its services over the next six weeks due to a lack of financial sustainability. The Web3-based marketplace aimed to provide artists with better control over their music distribution and sales but could not find a viable revenue model.
Skrillex has released a new collaborative track titled 'Thistle' featuring Blawan, Randomer, and MC Dricka. The song blends Blawan's techno with Brazilian bass and funk influences and has been a staple in Skrillex's recent DJ sets.
Semibreve has completed its music programming for the 2026 event, adding artists like Nuno Canavarro and Flora Yin-Wong to the lineup. The festival will feature a rare set from Canavarro performing a new work, alongside other notable acts.
This "Music of the Month" roundup highlights the best albums and tracks released in May 2026, featuring a diverse range of genres from experimental ambient and drone to extreme metal and hyperpop. The selections are presented as standouts in a particularly intense month for new music.
This article reviews the reissue of Om's 'Conference of the Birds', praising its hypnotic, atemporal oneness and the interplay between bass and drums. The album is described as a beguiling listen that offers timeless, idiosyncratic, and devotional roots music, standing apart from the stoner milieu it's often associated with. The verdict is highly positive, highlighting its assured balance and unique sonic dynamics.
Boards of Canada's "Inferno" marks a triumphant return after 13 years, offering a complex exploration of apocalyptic themes fused with their signature analogue aesthetic. The album is praised for its sonic evolution and depth, presenting a vision of hope within destruction and a subtle underlying message of love.
J. Zunz's "Obsidiana" masterfully transforms grief and tension into a shattering, luminous electronic experience. Despite abrasive textures and a sense of unease, the album offers a cathartic release, driven by compelling momentum and a raw sense of vulnerability.
Thomas Bangalter of Daft Punk has released a new remix of his track 'Circonvolutions' for a CHANEL campaign. The remix appears in a visual for the Bleu de CHANEL campaign, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, and will be available on a limited-edition vinyl.
The Trump administration used Boards of Canada's track 'Deep Time' in a promotional video, sparking outrage from fans and the label, who stated they do not condone unauthorized political use. This action mirrors previous controversies involving other artists whose music was used by the administration without permission.
Speaker Music, the alias of DeForrest Brown Jr., will release their final album, 'Synoptic Audio,' on July 10, 2026, via Planet Mu. The 10-track LP is built from improvisational electronic music and is influenced by Don Lewis's 'Live Electronic Orchestra'. The lead track, 'Dhalgren (Nihilism Is Not Enough),' has been released to mark the announcement.
Le Guess Who? has announced the initial lineup for its 2026 edition, set to take place from November 5-8 in Utrecht. The festival features guest curation from Los Thuthanaka, KMRU, Tropical Fuck Storm, and aja monet, alongside a broad musical program and a special 24-hour dub music celebration.
Deafkids' latest album, 'Cicatrizes Do Futuro,' is a ferociously pounding work that blends ancient Brazilian rhythms with punk immediacy and global influences. The duo masterfully navigates sonic collisions and mutations to reflect a collapsing world, offering flickers of traditional music as routes to resistance and possibility.
Dumama's "Towards an Expanse" is a powerful solo debut that uses traditional Xhosa instruments like the uhadi in a contemporary, punk-infused context to confront Western exoticism and explore themes of cultural identity, drought, and hunger. The album is a complex, rewarding work that resists easy categorization and demands active listening.
The Cramps' lost album, 'Gravest Gravy', featuring unreleased recordings from 1977 produced by Alex Chilton, is set for release on August 21, 2026. The project, which involved mixing and mastering by individuals close to the band and final approval from Poison Ivy, represents a significant archival release for fans.
Japanese artist Cornelius has announced his new album, 'Refractions,' set to be released on August 19, 2026, via Eat Your Own Ears. The 10-track LP features guest appearances from Arto Lindsay, Shintaro Sakamoto, Ganesh “Bid” Seshadri, and Sean Ono Lennon on the lead single ‘Aeons’.
Panda Bear and Sonic Boom have announced their second collaborative album, titled 'A ? Of WHEN', set for release on July 10, 2026. The album will feature contributions from Mary Lattimore and Daniel O’Sullivan, among others, and will span 10 tracks. Notably, the artists have decided not to release the album on streaming platforms, aiming for a more direct connection with listeners.
Salford's beloved music venue, The White Hotel, is set to close its doors in January 2027 after a decade of hosting underground and experimental electronic music. Co-founders cited administrative pressures and the venue's flood-risk location as key reasons for the decision, though they plan to continue with other projects, including a new festival called THE BLACK LIGHTS.
Post-punk legends The Durutti Column have announced their first album in 16 years, titled 'Renascent', set for release on July 31, 2026. The 11-track record, featuring percussionist Bruce Mitchell, producer Keir Stewart, and guest vocalist Caoilfhionn Rose, is previewed by the lead single 'Liars'.
A new 7,000-capacity warehouse venue called Ironworks is set to open in East London's Royal Docks this October. The venue, a collaboration between LWE and PROJEKT, will feature a large indoor space and an open-air terrace overlooking the Thames, hosting electronic music events alongside other activities like outdoor cinema and food markets.
Jeff Mills, a renowned techno artist, is set to release his new 11-track album, 'The Trip To Vega,' in June 2026. The album is a concept record with a sci-fi theme, exploring a human exodus from Earth to the Vega star system in the year 2097, featuring characteristic Detroit techno melodies.
In this interview, artist Mark Leckey discusses his eclectic and fragmented approach to music listening, which mirrors his artistic practice of remixing online material. He reflects on the transformative power of music in his youth, likening it to a possession, and how this compulsion to listen continues into his 60s. Leckey will be guest-curating a series of events for Selector, featuring artists like Aya and Richie Culver.
The Quietus: Playlists
Curated pick: The Dwarfs of East Agouza — Titular
Curated pick: Rian Treanor — My Little Loophole
Curated pick: James Krivchenia — Probably Wizards
Curated pick: Daft Punk — GLBTM (Studio Outtakes)
Curated pick: Keiji Haino — When logic rises morality falls Logic and morality in Japanese are but one character different
Curated pick: Dominic Voz — Right To The City I
Curated pick: Lamin Fofana — Searching For Memory
Curated pick: Nonsun — That Which Does Not Kill
Curated pick: Tim Burgess — Here Comes The Weekend
Curated pick: The Durutti Column — Liars
Curated pick: Tomorrow Comes The Harvest — The Happening
Curated pick: Arthur Russell — That's the Very Reason - Live 12/20/85
Curated pick: Spirit of Hamlet — Strike It Rich
Curated pick: Siavash Amini — A Quiet Glow (For Chuya Nakahara)
Curated pick: Kamikaze Palm Tree — In The Sand
Curated pick: Suicide — Girl - Unreleased Version;2022 - Remaster
Curated pick: Bye Bye Tsunami — Bye Bye Tsunami
Curated pick: Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe — The Sweet
Curated pick: Adam Weikert — The Strange and Merry Death of England
Curated pick: Nikolaienko — Belated Procession I - Video Edit
Curated pick: Matana Roberts — shake my bones
Curated pick: The Anchoress — Bizarre Love Triangle
Curated pick: Crack Cloud — Costly Engineered Illusion
Curated pick: King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard — Kepler-22b
Curated pick: Angel Olsen — All The Good Times
Curated pick: Earthless — Night Parade Of One Hundred Demons, Pt. 1
Curated pick: Sugar Horse — Shouting Judas at Bob Dylan
Curated pick: Speaker Music — Dhalgren (Nihilism is Not Enough)
Curated pick: Melvins — Tossing Coins Into The Fountain Of Fuck
Curated pick: NIMF — Solar Excess Sacrificial Ecstasies (Willie O'Winsbury, Sumer is icumen in)
Curated pick: Effective Dreaming — Dream Catalogue Vol. 1 : Side A
Curated pick: Animal Collective — Buddies On the Blackboard
Curated pick: Cole Pulice — In a Hidden Nook Between Worlds III
Curated pick: Richard Dawson — Boxing Day sales
Curated pick: Rwake — You Swore We'd Always Be Together
Curated pick: Kali Uchis — Igual Que Un Ángel (with Peso Pluma)
Curated pick: Angeline Morrison — Unknown African Boy (d.1830)
Curated pick: The London Sound Survey — Welney Washes
Curated pick: Erasure — Based on a True Story
Curated pick: Maisie Peters — John Hughes Movie
Curated pick: Lucy Liyou — Crisis (Identity)
Curated pick: Corrosion Of Conformity — Gimme Some Moore
Curated pick: Lee "Scratch" Perry — Rockcurry
Curated pick: The Utopia Strong — Spell Of Seven
Curated pick: Peter Harris — When The Great Wind Blows
Curated pick: James Brandon Lewis — Remember Brooklyn & Moki
Curated pick: Forest Swords — Butterfly Effect
Curated pick: Dying Fetus — Compulsion For Cruelty
Curated pick: Ligeti Quartet — Blackfriars - String Quartet Version
Curated pick: Lana Del Rabies — Prayers of Consequence
Curated pick: Kramer — Like The Planets Love The Sun
Curated pick: Carmel Smickersgill — Questioning
Curated pick: Actress — Concrète Waves London A1
Curated pick: Daniel O'Sullivan — Persian Carpets I
Curated pick: Orcutt Shelley Miller — A Star Is Born
Curated pick: Maoupa Mazzocchetti — Mantequilla - Pariah Remix
Curated pick: Al Karpenter — We Are All Karpenters
Curated pick: Teitanblood — Enter the Hypogeum
Curated pick: Peter Brötzmann — Butterfly Mushroom
Curated pick: Pidgins — This Simple Hack to Fix Your Stomach
Curated pick: Depeche Mode — My Cosmos Is Mine
Curated pick: Thomas Bangalter — Bangalter: Mythologies: X. L'Accouchement
Curated pick: Racine — Arête coincée dans une amygdale
Curated pick: Vasco Lé — Todd Edwards Historic 1st UK Show Rumford, 2003
Curated pick: Bill Callahan — Why Do Men Sing
Curated pick: Abduction — Blau ist die Farbe der Ewigkeit
Curated pick: Rien Virgule — Le rythme du sang
Curated pick: J Mascis — Can’t Believe We're Here
Curated pick: Sufjan Stevens — So You Are Tired
Curated pick: Angel Bat Dawid — INTROIT- Joy n’ Suff’rin
Curated pick: Autopsy — Knife Slice, Axe Chop
Curated pick: Diamanda Galás — Broken Gargoyles I. Mutilatus
Curated pick: Haress — Litres Into Metres - Susurrus
Curated pick: Saba — Come My Way (feat. Krayzie Bone)
Curated pick: Van Der Graaf Generator — Arrow - New Stereo Mix 2021
Curated pick: Nuortikon — Iron scent, bodies bent
Curated pick: Nine Inch Nails — Heresy - Nine Inch Noize Version
Curated pick: Bendik Giske — Slipping - aya been caught mix
Curated pick: Darragh Morgan — Zohra (Shiva Feshareki)
Curated pick: Manic Street Preachers — Being Baptised
Curated pick: Simo Cell — behind the waterfall
Curated pick: Jessica Moss — Light Falls On Every Door
Curated pick: Everything But The Girl — Caution To The Wind
Curated pick: King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard — Hell's Itch
Curated pick: Shiken Hanzo — Eternity Of Echoes
Curated pick: Jacken Elswyth — Scene 6, after Margaret Barry
Curated pick: Daniel Blumberg — The World to Come
Curated pick: Employed To Serve — Mark Of The Grave
Curated pick: Russell Haswell — Exit Downwards
Curated pick: Charles Tyler Ensemble — Voyage From Jericho
Curated pick: Michael Vorfeld — Lichte Wendel
Curated pick: FOUDRE! — Holographic Pleasures
Curated pick: Slow Knife — A HYMN SUPREME, Pt. 1
Curated pick: Lost Girls — With the Other Hand
Curated pick: Natural Wonder Beauty Concept — Sword
Curated pick: Nwando Ebizie — I Will Fix Myself (Just Circles)
Curated pick: Valentina Magaletti — Improvisation N°3
Curated pick: Mejiwahn — Heart String Special
Curated pick: Anna von Hausswolff — The Mysterious Vanishing of Electra - Live at Montreux
Curated pick: Traditional — Novus Annus Adiit
Curated pick: Nadeem Din-Gabisi — Enter Claim
Curated pick: These New Puritans — A Season In Hell
Curated pick: Califone — burn the sheets.bleach the books
Curated pick: Gruff Rhys — Celestial Candyfloss
Curated pick: Twilight Sequence — Birds in General: and the Rook
Curated pick: Oneohtrix Point Never — A Barely Lit Path
Curated pick: Daniel O'Sullivan — Return the Heart
Curated pick: Mozart Estate — Relative Poverty
Curated pick: Krust — Hegel Dialect - UNKLE Reconstruction
Curated pick: Octo Octa — First Intention (Right Here, Right Now)
Curated pick: Pat Thomas — Strata, Act (Joy Contemporary)* Zurich ONE
Curated pick: Smerz — You got time and I got money
Curated pick: Anja Lauvdal — No Gods Only Flowers
Curated pick: Andy Loebs — Chordophone & Cor Anglais
Curated pick: Debashish Bhattacharya — Ever the Flame Burns
Curated pick: Staraya derevnya — Gallant Spider
Curated pick: The Ephemeron Loop — Acetoxyhexorchid I (Cluster Phase)
Curated pick: Loraine James — Habits and Patterns
Curated pick: Teppana Jänis — Valamon kirkonkellot
Curated pick: Peter Brötzmann — Set 1, Night 1
Curated pick: Bolts of Melody — Hi-Rise Decade
Curated pick: Fausto Mercier — softlock by default
Curated pick: Saint Abdullah — No One Thought Of Love Anymore
Curated pick: Arooj Aftab — To Remain/To Return
Curated pick: Kali Malone — Does Spring Hide Its Joy v1.1
Curated pick: Soccer96 — Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds
Curated pick: Confidence Man — Bubblegum - Andrew Weatherall Remix
Curated pick: Laurie Anderson — Let X=X - Live
Curated pick: Crown and Country — WANTARRI (GIFT)
Curated pick: Shackleton — Crushing Realities
Curated pick: Libya Music Band — Kol Al Mawaeed
Curated pick: Gryphon Rue — Squatter's Quarters
Curated pick: Ministry — Every Day Is Halloween - Squirrely Version
Curated pick: DARKSIDE — Are You Tired? (Keep on Singing)
Curated pick: Aïsha Devi — Dimensional Spleen
Curated pick: A Certain Ratio — Waiting on a Train
Curated pick: Ian William Craig — Sentimental Drift
Curated pick: The Smile — Skrting On The Surface
Curated pick: Kieran Hebden — If I Had a Boat
Curated pick: Laura Cannell — A Ship Sunk in Earth
Curated pick: White Magic for Lovers — Suppose
Curated pick: The Legendary Pink Dots — So Lonely In Heaven
Curated pick: Alison Cotton — The Letter Burning
Curated pick: Lathe of Heaven — At Moment's Edge
Curated pick: Daniel O'Sullivan — The Lights That Guard The World
Curated pick: Belle and Sebastian — When We Were Very Young
Curated pick: Wojciech Rusin — Words into Shapes
Curated pick: Sweat — A New Love Language
Curated pick: Bonnie Prince Billy — They Keep Trying To Find You
Curated pick: Autoreverse — HI-SPEED DUB indicator
Curated pick: Jan Kadereit — Kampana - Vibration, trembling
Curated pick: Lori Vambe — Goin Home Boogie (One)
Curated pick: Cameron Graham — Obedience to Authority Figures
Curated pick: Bell Witch — The Clandestine Gate
Curated pick: Lady Neptune — Time 2 Make U Feel Good
Curated pick: The Frenzied Bricks — (Can I) Bridge The Gap
Curated pick: FKA twigs — tears in the club (feat. the weeknd)
Curated pick: Bruce Springsteen — Streets of Minneapolis - Radio Mix
Curated pick: Lawrence English — Amorphic Foothills
Curated pick: Emma Tricca — Autumn's Fiery Tongue
Curated pick: Adela Mede — Háromszorra Jövök Össze
Curated pick: Khidja — The Future Has Disappeared
Curated pick: Panda Bear — Gettin’ to the Point
Curated pick: Martyna Basta — Memories of Unwanted
Curated pick: Sergeant — Oh Sweet Martyrdom of Not Knowing How to Speak but Only Bark
Curated pick: Thundercat — I Did This To Myself
Curated pick: Kieran Hebden — If I Had a Boat
Curated pick: Throwing Muses — Summer of Love
Curated pick: Mary Anne's Polar Rig — Dopamine Detox
Curated pick: Lamp of Murmuur — Conqueror Beyond the Frenzied Fog
Curated pick: Blut Aus Nord — Chants Of The Deep Ones
Curated pick: The Threshold HouseBoys Choir — Part One: A Time Of Happening
Curated pick: Darkthrone — They Found One Of My Graves
Curated pick: Robyn — Sexistential - Arca’s Take
Curated pick: Traumatizer — Nuclear War Machine
Curated pick: Shrine Maiden — And I Arise (Reprise)
Curated pick: Horses 4k — Barely a Horse, Mostly a Pony
Curated pick: Mirrored Daughters — Mirror Descend
Curated pick: Reverend Kristin Michael Hayter — ALL OF MY FRIENDS ARE GOING TO HELL
Curated pick: Hands up Who Wants to Die — Clothbound
Curated pick: Short Hands — 3rd Night Tax Edit
Curated pick: RXM Reality — what's crappening
Curated pick: Mark Wagner — What Do You Want From Life
Curated pick: Bas Jan — You Have Bewitched Me
Curated pick: Laylow — STUNTMEN (feat. Alpha Wann & Wit.)
Curated pick: Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith — Ruin
Curated pick: Dexys Midnight Runners — My Life In England Pt. 1
Curated pick: John Carpenter — Lord of the Underground
Curated pick: Function — Growth Cycle (Hermetic Mix)
Curated pick: The Avalanches — Together (feat. Nikki Nair, Jessy Lanza & Prentiss)
Curated pick: Felicia Atkinson — Sans Visage I
Curated pick: Boards of Canada — Prophecy At 1420 MHz
Curated pick: Floating Points — Falling to Earth
Curated pick: Ellie Wilson — Listen to the River Ching
Curated pick: Dumama — Layer After Layer
Curated pick: easygoingtech — defibrillator
Curated pick: Lipsticism — Feeling Why Do You Follow
Curated pick: Magic Tuber Stringband — Where the Place Becomes Forgetting
Curated pick: Kurt Vile — Chance to Bleed
Curated pick: Burned As Witches — Hold Your Nerve
Curated pick: The Claypool Lennon Delirium — The Golden Egg of Empathy (feat. WILLOW)
Curated pick: Marisa Anderson — Quodlibet
Curated pick: Speedy J — Modern Birds - Origin Edit
Curated pick: Bonner Kramer — The Third Migration
Curated pick: For Breakfast — The Moon and the Canyon Guide
Curated pick: Build Buildings — Bronze 1
Curated pick: Phillip Golub — loyalty oath
Curated pick: Seefeel — Behind The Seen
thequietus: The Quietus Subscribers' May 2026 Playlist: Playlists
Curated pick: Speedy J — Modern Birds - Origin Edit
Curated pick: Bonner Kramer — The Third Migration
Curated pick: For Breakfast — The Moon and the Canyon Guide
Curated pick: Cevdet Erek — ÇIN
Curated pick: Genesis Owusu — STAMPEDE
Curated pick: Build Buildings — Bronze 1
Curated pick: Phillip Golub — loyalty oath
Curated pick: Seefeel — Behind The Seen
Curated pick: Dumama — Layer After Layer
Curated pick: easygoingtech — defibrillator
Curated pick: Lipsticism — Feeling Why Do You Follow
Curated pick: Ava Mendoza — Sun Gun
Curated pick: Visible Cloaks — Disque
Curated pick: Magic Tuber Stringband — Where the Place Becomes Forgetting
Curated pick: Kurt Vile — Chance to Bleed
Curated pick: Burned As Witches — Hold Your Nerve
Curated pick: The Claypool Lennon Delirium — The Golden Egg of Empathy (feat. WILLOW)
Curated pick: Marisa Anderson — Quodlibet
Curated pick: Laibach — Love Machine
Curated pick: Speedy J — Modern Birds - Origin Edit
Curated pick: Bonner Kramer — The Third Migration
Curated pick: For Breakfast — The Moon and the Canyon Guide
Curated pick: Cevdet Erek — ÇIN
Curated pick: Genesis Owusu — STAMPEDE
Curated pick: Build Buildings — Bronze 1
Curated pick: Phillip Golub — loyalty oath
Curated pick: Seefeel — Behind The Seen
Curated pick: Dumama — Layer After Layer
Curated pick: easygoingtech — defibrillator
Curated pick: Lipsticism — Feeling Why Do You Follow
Curated pick: Ava Mendoza — Sun Gun
Curated pick: Visible Cloaks — Disque
Curated pick: Magic Tuber Stringband — Where the Place Becomes Forgetting
Curated pick: Kurt Vile — Chance to Bleed
Curated pick: Burned As Witches — Hold Your Nerve
Curated pick: The Claypool Lennon Delirium — The Golden Egg of Empathy (feat. WILLOW)
Curated pick: Marisa Anderson — Quodlibet
Curated pick: Laibach — Love Machine