What stands out is how Crocodiles have lightened up, embracing everything from grrrl-group alt pop to deliciously spacey new wave. [Jul 2012, p.90]

There are a number of joyous moments of six-string clang and rhythmic dynamism... that are positively invigorating. [Aug 2004, p.104]

Moreno's breathy vocal soar over the backbone of guitarist Clifford Mayer, bassist Jeff Caxide and drummer Aaron Harris, as melodic and uplifting as they've ever sounded, and the end result is absolutely beautiful. [Jul 2013, p.102]

Those who stick with Arab Strap will discover endearing wit and vulnerability in the duo's songs, as well as tender melodies and graceful acoustic playing. [Apr 2006, p.204]

Like a primer in recent rock history. [Dec 2006, p.200]

Welcome back ladies. The world's more fun with you in it. [Nov 2009, p.114]

Bigger production values and more group playing than her previous piano/vocal introspection. Haines delivers urgency and depth without having to shear off her throat lining, and can convey vulnerability and uncertainty with a brave face. [Oct 2017, p.81]

Everybody has something for, well, everybody. [Jun 2007, p.151]

A fantastic musical landscape that's practically carnivalesque. [Jul 2004, p.136]

The sixth studio album by the international power-metal squad largely makes the positive changes heard on 2012's The Power Within stick. [Sep 2014, p.106]

On their eighth album, the breadth of Godflesh’s influences are wider than ever, and their capacity for psychological excavation runs deeper.

Gibbard isn't reinventing himself with Former Lives, but after a decade and a half in the business, he proves he's still got a lot to say. [Nov 2012, p.88]

Much of Normal Happiness combines the effortless charm of classic power-pop with elements of prog as put through the filter of early Genesis or Ween; kind of like that last New Pornographers disc, but better. [Nov 2006, p.188]

A ripe thriller, the work of a facile talent with a newfound fecund baritone that goes places where Pulp could not tread. [Jun 2007, p.150]

LOG maintain all thise essential elements and more, yet still venture into uncharted territory. [Apr 2009, p.136]

The album makes a vibrant statement. [Dec 2001, p.82]

Feast delivers the meal Waste fans expect. [May 2012, p.81]

Turns out you can be the next hipster nuzz band and actually be good. [Apr 2010, p.123]

II's best moments actually come when the songs sound like nothing either singer has ever done. [Nov 2012, p.90]

Garden Window's individual songs could stand to find better cohesion, but the band's quest for answers packs a consistent thematic punch, and certain musical moments that surface as a result of their boiling frustration are just spellbinding.

Easy Listening has enough great riffs for Big Star and Cheap Trick to share, with leftovers to spare. [Jun 2003, p.103]

Ballou has captured the genuine sound of its four members together in a room, less of a monster in your closet and more of a brilliant basement show. [Nov 2012, p.90]

A fine bounce-back from the lackluster They Want My Soul, as they seemed to have found their attitude and swagger. The glitzy, moody atmosphere they conjure up is a hella good look. [Apr 2017, p.82]

God is an album perfect for daytime iPod consumption--and suitable for keeping the party bumping well after midnight. [Apr 2009, p.142]

TSSF have created an album that will help young listeners navigate the murky waters of growing up. As for the older listeners? Just appreciate the fact that a band this young are able to write an album this thoughtful and passionate.

Unpatterns is actually more engaging and accessible than Simian Mobile Disco's past work, perhaps because no gimmicks or distractions cloud the band's analog alchemy. [Jun 2012, p.84]

Comfort Eagle is infinitely smarter, smarmier and catchier than Weezer's Green Album. [Oct 2001, p.79]

"Key Entity Extraction: Domino The Destitute" contains everything that makes Ascension a great record: heavy riffage, soaring leads, shouting, undeniable hooks, and no bullshit in between. [Nov 2012, p.91]