The Smiths ~ How Soon is Now? [1984]

There are significant similarities between the creation of The Smiths’s anthemic 80s “How Soon is Now?” and previously featured New Order’s dancefloor masterpiece “Blue Monday.” Not that they sound at all alike (they do not), but both tracks were openly developed with some of their best tidbits being nicked from other artists. And not unlike a common criticism of AI, there should be little illusion … Continue reading The Smiths ~ How Soon is Now? [1984]

bdrmm – Pulling Stitches [2⊘23]

With a menacing growl, the storm-grey curtain begins its slow descent. A once flourishing dream, draped over our sun’s bright and mighty entrance allows a mere smattering of rays to embrace glass. Glimmers of hope illuminate the shattered remains of a now haunted, once-spirited war zone. “Why does this feel? Like a dream. A third, second chance. Just doesn’t seem real” This is bdrmm (stylistically), four Hull English lads and … Continue reading bdrmm – Pulling Stitches [2⊘23]

Depeche Mode ~ Before We Drown [2⊘23]

Speak of the devil, and the devil appears… As a long-time fan of Depeche Mode, I must admit some trepidation with their latest release Memento Mori, appropriately “an artistic or symbolic trope acting as a reminder of the inevitability of death.” Yet with apparent re-listenings, I once again begin to fall in love with their unique energy born of an … Continue reading Depeche Mode ~ Before We Drown [2⊘23]

IżoL ~ A Lonely House [2⊘2⊘]

Lovely statuesque Caitlin Stokes, lead singer of previously featured band Corlyx, remarked on the number of bands that successfully mimic other extremely popular bands, and it is difficult to argue with her pedigree. Further, it is impossible to argue as far as Depeche Mode is concerned. Bands such as Camouflage, Cause & Effect, Mesh, and M.I.N.E. have built extensive audiences by mining that same “fast-fashion” … Continue reading IżoL ~ A Lonely House [2⊘2⊘]

Bootblacks ~ Wilderness [2⊘24]

Previously featured Bootblacks song “Birds” is in stark contrast to newly released “Wilderness“. Wtih “Birds” being a cryptic, wildly deep dive into gothic jazz fusion, while “Wilderness” instead builds on a concrete base of Miami Vice synthwave, overlaid sparkly driven guitars in retro rapturous delight. “In this life, we’re not alone You’re the only one I’ve ever … Continue reading Bootblacks ~ Wilderness [2⊘24]