The Orchestra (For Now) – ‘Plan 76’ EP review


Self-described as ‘London prog’, The Orchestra (For Now)’s ‘Plan 76’ EP finds the seven piece attempting to ‘refine rather than complicate’ their distinctive fusion of baroque indie hooks, post hardcore breakdowns and touches of jazz. ‘Impatient’ opens the album in stop-start fashion before delving deep into the avant-garde orchestral dramatics that have served the band…

Long Fling album artwork

Long Fling – ‘Long Fling’ album review


Following a 10-year relationship, Pip Blom and Willem Smit (frontman of Personal Trainer) have made their first and only record as a duo – Long Fling. The self-titled record is a truly collaborative effort, with sessions often ending in arguments due to the pair’s passion. ‘Remember that time we had Chinese for breakfast and you…

Richard Ashcroft Lovin' You album artwork

Richard Ashcroft – ‘Lovin’ You’ album review


Richard Ashcroft follows up a celebratory summer supporting Oasis with the release of ‘Lovin’ You’ on 10 October, 2025. This is Richard’s first album filled with new material since 2018’s ‘Natural Rebel’ and finds the singer-songwriter exploring, experimenting and celebrating love. ‘Lover’ opens the record with its take on Joan Armatrading’s ‘Love and Affection’. The…

Stay Inside Lunger album artwork

Stay Inside – ‘Lunger’ album review


Brooklyn band Stay Inside follow up last year’s debut album ‘Ferried Away’ with ‘Lunger’, a record filled with tales of hope, heartbreak and exploration. Now signed to Tiny Engines, the record dips and dives through different genres with experimental energy. ‘Counting Electric Sheep’ opens with ferocious drumming and riffs, squeals and synths that recall Motion…

Idlewild album artwork

Idlewild – ‘Idlewild’ album review


With cover artwork photographed from the exact same spot as the sleeve for ‘Hope Is Important’ – only facing in the opposite direction and in glorious colour – Idlewild make a welcome return with their new self-titled record. The tenth album in the band’s career, it finds them ‘looking back without being nostalgic’ according to…