The return of Alvvays after a five-year hiatus feels like an explosion. Taking in the genres of shoegaze, synth-pop, and 80s balladry, Blue Rev is bursting at the seams with heartbreaking sadness and messy joy.
“Paradise, and I find myself paralyzed,” lead singer Molly Rankin states on the standout “Belinda Says,” a song about the many crossroads we find ourselves facing. “But I’ll find my way,” she concludes, gunning for hope. Rankin sings and sounds like she’s in a hurricane of feeling with her sharpest writing to date, and the band is all the better for it.
By Sarah Morrison
Rock and roll innovator Kyle Thomas reminds us there’s no place like home with new album, Smalltown Stardust.
By Stephan Boissonneault
Look sharp! It’s Aquarius szn.
By Ben Boddez
The Italian Eurovision champs’ first majority-English album is full of roaring solos, raspy vocals, and delightful sleaze.