Reviewed by Chris Render
This latest album from baffling prog-metal group Coheed and Cambria is exactly what fans have come to expect. For those familiar with the band’s conceptual oeuvre, Year of the Black Rainbow acts as a prequel to Second Stage Turbine Blades. For everyone else, it forms another part of the band’s almost incomprehensible science fiction storyline that pervades every album they have released. However, none of that is particularly important. What is important, however, is that Year of the Black Rainbow is awesome. Screaming guitars, pounding drums and Sanchez’s characteristic high pitched vocals combine to make an epic, cinematic and powerful album. Single release Here We Are Juggernaut is singularly impressive, and an album highlight. Though maybe not quite as good as previous albums like Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV Volume One: From Fear Through the Eyes of Madness (and with a substantially more concise name), Year of the Black Rainbow shows Coheed and Cambria on top form.
The special edition of the album also includes a full length novel by the same name, written by band frontman Claudio Sanchez and author Peter David, and whilst some may consider this a somewhat pretentious move, it is indicative of the band’s dedication and the expansive nature of the world Sanchez has created.
5/5
Showing posts with label Chris Render. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chris Render. Show all posts
Monday, 26 April 2010
The Butterfly Explosion - Lost Trails
Reviewed by Chris Render
I’d been looking forward to reviewing this debut album from Irish outfit The Butterfly Explosion, and I was not disappointed. Anarchic, eclectic and absolutely inspired, Lost Trails is everything a debut album should be, putting the band firmly on the map. The Butterfly Explosion clearly have no scruples about bucking conformity and trying new things, the album itself an experiment in music, combining beautiful music and deep, emotion-wracked vocals to create something ethereal and dreamlike. Lost Trails is truly breathtaking, a refreshingly unique exercise in sound that needs to be heard to be believed. Every track is a highlight, but if I had to pick favourites then Sophia and Chemistry are the real greats. But it is difficult to choose just a few tracks from an album like this. If you’re a fan of experimental music and shoegaze, or if you just want to check out something a bit different, I’d definitely recommend The Butterfly Explosion, and expect to see more from them in future.
5/5
I’d been looking forward to reviewing this debut album from Irish outfit The Butterfly Explosion, and I was not disappointed. Anarchic, eclectic and absolutely inspired, Lost Trails is everything a debut album should be, putting the band firmly on the map. The Butterfly Explosion clearly have no scruples about bucking conformity and trying new things, the album itself an experiment in music, combining beautiful music and deep, emotion-wracked vocals to create something ethereal and dreamlike. Lost Trails is truly breathtaking, a refreshingly unique exercise in sound that needs to be heard to be believed. Every track is a highlight, but if I had to pick favourites then Sophia and Chemistry are the real greats. But it is difficult to choose just a few tracks from an album like this. If you’re a fan of experimental music and shoegaze, or if you just want to check out something a bit different, I’d definitely recommend The Butterfly Explosion, and expect to see more from them in future.
5/5
Band of the Eye - Contagious Ignorance
Reviewed by Chris Render
In the simplest and briefest of terms, Contagious Ignorance, the debut album from Bristol alt-rockers Band of the Eye, isn’t bad. Hardly a contender for my album of the year, or even of the week, but it can’t be denied that tracks like Why Are You So Awful and Wasting are quite enjoyable. And “quite enjoyable” basically sums up Contagious Ignorance in its entirety. There are no particularly bad tracks on the album, and some highlights, like Dress-Down Day or the somewhat REM reminiscent Bye, are particularly good. It is difficult to know what to say about Band of the Eye: as musicians they are more than competent, as an album Contagious Ignorance is more than satisfactory. However, they don’t really manage to stand out. The only remarkable thing about the album is the welcome but somewhat quaint declaration that This Skin I’m In is unsuitable for airplay due to the use of profanity. Though I hope to hear more from the band, it would be less than surprising if they were to fade into obscurity, which would be a shame, because although not particularly unique, Band of the Eye are a group of fine musicians. I’d recommend having a listen, but don’t expect to be too astonished by what you hear.
3/5
In the simplest and briefest of terms, Contagious Ignorance, the debut album from Bristol alt-rockers Band of the Eye, isn’t bad. Hardly a contender for my album of the year, or even of the week, but it can’t be denied that tracks like Why Are You So Awful and Wasting are quite enjoyable. And “quite enjoyable” basically sums up Contagious Ignorance in its entirety. There are no particularly bad tracks on the album, and some highlights, like Dress-Down Day or the somewhat REM reminiscent Bye, are particularly good. It is difficult to know what to say about Band of the Eye: as musicians they are more than competent, as an album Contagious Ignorance is more than satisfactory. However, they don’t really manage to stand out. The only remarkable thing about the album is the welcome but somewhat quaint declaration that This Skin I’m In is unsuitable for airplay due to the use of profanity. Though I hope to hear more from the band, it would be less than surprising if they were to fade into obscurity, which would be a shame, because although not particularly unique, Band of the Eye are a group of fine musicians. I’d recommend having a listen, but don’t expect to be too astonished by what you hear.
3/5
Black Soul Strangers - Animate
Reviewed by Chris Render
This debut album from Irish pop-rock four piece Black Soul Strangers definitely positions them as a band worth keeping an eye on. It’s skilful, inspired and thoughtful stuff, everything you’d hope for from up and coming artists like these. The album opens phenomenally with Panic Sets Direction and Lies, both catchy and memorable tracks, before proceeding with a ten track display of raw talent. Tracks like Leave and Monster show the band’s more measured and calm side, whilst never losing their catchy, entertaining appeal, whilst Gallows and Wichita, both album highlights in my opinion, are somewhat more conducive to a club atmosphere, catchy, upbeat, fast and intense. With Animate, Black Soul Strangers have created an album that it’s hard not to fall in love with. Granted, their brand of pop-rock may be nothing new, but they manage to stand out from the crowd simply because they do it so well. Believe the hype: Black Soul Strangers could very well be the next big thing.
4/5
This debut album from Irish pop-rock four piece Black Soul Strangers definitely positions them as a band worth keeping an eye on. It’s skilful, inspired and thoughtful stuff, everything you’d hope for from up and coming artists like these. The album opens phenomenally with Panic Sets Direction and Lies, both catchy and memorable tracks, before proceeding with a ten track display of raw talent. Tracks like Leave and Monster show the band’s more measured and calm side, whilst never losing their catchy, entertaining appeal, whilst Gallows and Wichita, both album highlights in my opinion, are somewhat more conducive to a club atmosphere, catchy, upbeat, fast and intense. With Animate, Black Soul Strangers have created an album that it’s hard not to fall in love with. Granted, their brand of pop-rock may be nothing new, but they manage to stand out from the crowd simply because they do it so well. Believe the hype: Black Soul Strangers could very well be the next big thing.
4/5
The Destructors - Politika
Reviewed by Chris Render
I’ll say one thing in The Destructors’ favour, they’re prolific. In the last year or so, I have encountered no less than three albums from the Peterborough punk band. It’s just a shame that none of them have been very good. And Politika is no exception. Tracks like To Vote or Not to Vote and F*** EU well exemplify The Destructors’ approach to injecting meaning into their music: loud, brash and poorly conveyed. Someone needs to sit down with the band and explain to them that there is more to having a political agenda than just shouting “f*** the EU!” over and over again. Politics is a particular lowlight. Even the album “highlights” like Looks Like Rain and Politics is Politics, which near the dizzying heights of competent punk rock, are far from good. The album also contains a cover of Alice Cooper’s Elected, about which the less said the better. The Destructors, it would seem, reached rock bottom a long time ago and liked it so much they decided to stay there. This review may sound overly harsh, but if you doubt me, please, feel free to see for yourself. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.
0 out of f***ing five.
I’ll say one thing in The Destructors’ favour, they’re prolific. In the last year or so, I have encountered no less than three albums from the Peterborough punk band. It’s just a shame that none of them have been very good. And Politika is no exception. Tracks like To Vote or Not to Vote and F*** EU well exemplify The Destructors’ approach to injecting meaning into their music: loud, brash and poorly conveyed. Someone needs to sit down with the band and explain to them that there is more to having a political agenda than just shouting “f*** the EU!” over and over again. Politics is a particular lowlight. Even the album “highlights” like Looks Like Rain and Politics is Politics, which near the dizzying heights of competent punk rock, are far from good. The album also contains a cover of Alice Cooper’s Elected, about which the less said the better. The Destructors, it would seem, reached rock bottom a long time ago and liked it so much they decided to stay there. This review may sound overly harsh, but if you doubt me, please, feel free to see for yourself. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.
0 out of f***ing five.
Depeche Mode - Fragile Tension / A Hole to Feed
Reviewed by Chris Render
No surprises here, really. Depeche Mode have been at the forefront of British electro for years, and this 8-track CD is no exception. Featuring tracks from their latest album Sounds of the Universe and a selection of remixes from artists like Peter Bjorn and John and Laidback Luke, this CD is a musical tour de force, suitably exemplifying why Depeche Mode have been met with the critical acclaim they have enjoyed over the years. Both Fragile Tension and Hole to Feed are highlights, catchy, skilful and instantly memorable. The second portion of the CD, the remixes of tracks from Sounds of the Universe is as varied as it is entertaining, shifting from a catchy and upbeat Roger Sanchez Club Mix of Perfect to a decidedly more laidback mix of Come Back by Sixtoes flawlessly. Of these remixes, the arguable highlight comes from the Roger Sanchez mix, but even the less enjoyable tracks, like the Popof Vocal Mix of Hole to Feed, are still triumphs of electro. Once again, it would seem, Depeche Mode have succeeded in creating a fantastic, enjoyable electro masterpiece.
5/5
No surprises here, really. Depeche Mode have been at the forefront of British electro for years, and this 8-track CD is no exception. Featuring tracks from their latest album Sounds of the Universe and a selection of remixes from artists like Peter Bjorn and John and Laidback Luke, this CD is a musical tour de force, suitably exemplifying why Depeche Mode have been met with the critical acclaim they have enjoyed over the years. Both Fragile Tension and Hole to Feed are highlights, catchy, skilful and instantly memorable. The second portion of the CD, the remixes of tracks from Sounds of the Universe is as varied as it is entertaining, shifting from a catchy and upbeat Roger Sanchez Club Mix of Perfect to a decidedly more laidback mix of Come Back by Sixtoes flawlessly. Of these remixes, the arguable highlight comes from the Roger Sanchez mix, but even the less enjoyable tracks, like the Popof Vocal Mix of Hole to Feed, are still triumphs of electro. Once again, it would seem, Depeche Mode have succeeded in creating a fantastic, enjoyable electro masterpiece.
5/5
The Foals - Spanish Sahara
Reviewed by Chris Render
Spanish Sahara is a great new track from Oxford indies Foals, moving from a sedate and progressive beginning into a more lively indie style as the track continues. Catchy, skilful and fun, Spanish Sahara is definitely worth a listen.
Spanish Sahara is a great new track from Oxford indies Foals, moving from a sedate and progressive beginning into a more lively indie style as the track continues. Catchy, skilful and fun, Spanish Sahara is definitely worth a listen.
Frank Turner - Isabel
Reviewed by Chris Render
We all know what to expect from Frank Turner by now. Infectious, thoughtful and skilfully crafted, Turner has gone from strength to strength throughout his career and Isabel is no exception. A great song from a great musician.
We all know what to expect from Frank Turner by now. Infectious, thoughtful and skilfully crafted, Turner has gone from strength to strength throughout his career and Isabel is no exception. A great song from a great musician.
Razmataz Lorry Excitement – A Year Short on Surprises
Reviewed by Chris Render
The new single from this Geordie electro artist is a synth triumph. A Year Short on Surprises is vibrant, cheery and catchy, and with a name like ‘Razmataz Lorry Excitement’ I would expect little else. Hope to hear this in clubs across the country soon.
The new single from this Geordie electro artist is a synth triumph. A Year Short on Surprises is vibrant, cheery and catchy, and with a name like ‘Razmataz Lorry Excitement’ I would expect little else. Hope to hear this in clubs across the country soon.
The Delays - Unsung
Reviewed by Chris Render
I wasn’t completely sold on Unsung. That isn’t to say that it isn’t competently performed, however, more that it simply wasn’t to my tastes. If you like what the Delays have done so far, you’ll like Unsung, if you’re not a fan, this will do little to change your mind.
I wasn’t completely sold on Unsung. That isn’t to say that it isn’t competently performed, however, more that it simply wasn’t to my tastes. If you like what the Delays have done so far, you’ll like Unsung, if you’re not a fan, this will do little to change your mind.
The Rebs - Don't Fool Yourself
Reviewed by Chris Render
Unashamed indie pop, Don’t Fool Yourself displays the musical skill of The Rebs, which is perfectly complemented by their upbeat and catchy style. The Southampton four piece are looking at a bright future, and it isn’t hard to see why Don’t Fool Yourself won ‘best pop song’ at the Exposure Music Awards.
Unashamed indie pop, Don’t Fool Yourself displays the musical skill of The Rebs, which is perfectly complemented by their upbeat and catchy style. The Southampton four piece are looking at a bright future, and it isn’t hard to see why Don’t Fool Yourself won ‘best pop song’ at the Exposure Music Awards.
Eugene and the Lizards - Bug Juice / I Want Action
Reviewed by Chris Render
This alt-rock single from Eugene McGuinness is one of the most refreshingly original things I’ve heard in a long time. With Bug Juice Eugene and the Lizards have thrown out the rule book and created a single that leads me to believe they’re a definite one to watch: I’m eagerly awaiting the release of the album, Glue.
This alt-rock single from Eugene McGuinness is one of the most refreshingly original things I’ve heard in a long time. With Bug Juice Eugene and the Lizards have thrown out the rule book and created a single that leads me to believe they’re a definite one to watch: I’m eagerly awaiting the release of the album, Glue.
Will and the People - Mr Sketchy
Reviewed by Chris Render
Mr Sketchy is undeniably likeable. Upbeat and infectious, Will and the People’s latest endeavour is a blend of indie pop and ska influences that doesn’t fail to deliver. Competently performed and catchy like the plague, keep an eye on Will and the People.
Mr Sketchy is undeniably likeable. Upbeat and infectious, Will and the People’s latest endeavour is a blend of indie pop and ska influences that doesn’t fail to deliver. Competently performed and catchy like the plague, keep an eye on Will and the People.
The Sunshine Underground - Spell It Out
Reviewed by Chris Render
It is important for me to say that Spell It Out is skilfully performed and altogether enjoyable. There is nothing about it that is bad. However, it fails to really stand out among hundreds of other indie tracks. I would recommend checking it out, but there are a fair few bands you might want to discover first.
It is important for me to say that Spell It Out is skilfully performed and altogether enjoyable. There is nothing about it that is bad. However, it fails to really stand out among hundreds of other indie tracks. I would recommend checking it out, but there are a fair few bands you might want to discover first.
Thea Ford - You Got Me
Reviewed by Chris Render
There is no shortage of female singer/songwriters like Thea Ford at the moment, but to disregard her prowess as a musician would be foolhardy. You Got Me is a catchy and thoughtful single, and Ford’s debut is refreshingly upbeat. I dare you to listen to it without smiling.
There is no shortage of female singer/songwriters like Thea Ford at the moment, but to disregard her prowess as a musician would be foolhardy. You Got Me is a catchy and thoughtful single, and Ford’s debut is refreshingly upbeat. I dare you to listen to it without smiling.
Dirty Weekend - Time
Reviewed by Chris Render
Stockton-on-Tees indie group Dirty Weekend’s debut single puts them on the map as a band to keep an eye on. Although hardly particularly revolutionary, it’s competently performed, catchy and enjoyable, with somewhat darker undertones. Imagine a somewhat more downbeat Maximo Park and you’ll be along the right lines.
Stockton-on-Tees indie group Dirty Weekend’s debut single puts them on the map as a band to keep an eye on. Although hardly particularly revolutionary, it’s competently performed, catchy and enjoyable, with somewhat darker undertones. Imagine a somewhat more downbeat Maximo Park and you’ll be along the right lines.
80s Matchbox B-Line Disaster – Love Turns To Hate / Sushwep
Reviewed by Chris Render
Love Turns to Hate is the long awaited (by some people, anyway) return of psychosis rockers 80s Matchbox B-Line Disaster, and whilst their particular sound may be a little niche for some, I personally love it. Catchy, skilled... just downright entertaining, I am genuinely looking forward to their upcoming album Blood and Fire.
Love Turns to Hate is the long awaited (by some people, anyway) return of psychosis rockers 80s Matchbox B-Line Disaster, and whilst their particular sound may be a little niche for some, I personally love it. Catchy, skilled... just downright entertaining, I am genuinely looking forward to their upcoming album Blood and Fire.
Goldfrapp - Rocket
Reviewed by Chris Render
This new single from British duo Goldfrapp is exactly what we’ve come to expect: enjoyable, upbeat synthpop with an excruciatingly catchy chorus and 80s sensibilities. Suffice it to say, I liked Rocket about as much as I like the rest of Goldfrapp’s oeuvre which is to say a lot.
This new single from British duo Goldfrapp is exactly what we’ve come to expect: enjoyable, upbeat synthpop with an excruciatingly catchy chorus and 80s sensibilities. Suffice it to say, I liked Rocket about as much as I like the rest of Goldfrapp’s oeuvre which is to say a lot.
Keane - Stop For a Minute
Reviewed by Chris Render
I’ve never been a huge fan of Keane, and sadly their new single Stop for a Minute has done little to change that. Featuring rapper K’Naan, this new track is a disjointed display of middle of the road pop and RnB sensibilities that fails to satisfy.
I’ve never been a huge fan of Keane, and sadly their new single Stop for a Minute has done little to change that. Featuring rapper K’Naan, this new track is a disjointed display of middle of the road pop and RnB sensibilities that fails to satisfy.
Sunday, 31 January 2010
Lemonade – Bliss Out
Reviewed by Chris Render
I think it is only fair of me to make it clear I am not a fan of the whole garage/jungle scene, and therefore I wasn’t particularly enamoured of Bliss Out. That’s not to say I particularly disliked it, in fact I found it relatively catchy. I simply mean to say that pounding, repetitive bass isn’t really my thing. If it appeals to you, I’d say check it out, but I won’t recommend it to rock fans.
2/5
C
I think it is only fair of me to make it clear I am not a fan of the whole garage/jungle scene, and therefore I wasn’t particularly enamoured of Bliss Out. That’s not to say I particularly disliked it, in fact I found it relatively catchy. I simply mean to say that pounding, repetitive bass isn’t really my thing. If it appeals to you, I’d say check it out, but I won’t recommend it to rock fans.
2/5
C
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