Top 20 Albums of 2016 (PART 2)

Before I list down my top 10 albums of 2016, I thought I would give my honorable mentions that didn't quite make my list:

Black Foxxes - I'm Not Well
Broods - Conscious
Deap Vally - Femijism
Highly Suspect - The Boy Who Died Wolf
Kings of Leon - WALLS
letlive. - If I'm The Devil
Moose Blood - Blush
PUP - The Dream Is Over
Shura - Nothing's Real
Weezer - The White Album

10. Bon Iver - 22, A Million

I wasn't sure whether Justin Vernon was just being kitschy with this album as he strands away from the folk-ish style from his previous albums, and experimenting with its production using samples, glitches and tricks almost like Radiohead's Kid A. Although it sounds abrasive, Vernon's lyrical ability flourishes and there is a lot of layered complexity within the tracks. This album will take time for the audience to get used to but will eventually admire what the purpose and intention was with this album.

Check Out: "45", "22 (Over Soon)", "33 "GOD""
For Fans Of: Radiohead, Jamie xx, James Blake





9. Kero Kero Bonito - Graduation

Stumbling upon their single "Flamingo" on YouTube got me intrigued because of its sugarcoated pop style and sound blended with so many influences like 90s trance, J-pop, and trip hop so I went to listen to this album, unexpected of what's to come. Its production is cheerful and filled with massive singles that are annoyingly catchy despite most tracks being understandable (mostly in Japanese) but discusses simple but honest topics complemented with vocalist Sarah Midori Perry's sweet lyricism. Be warned, it's an acquired taste but it'll surely brighten up your day.

Check Out: Lipslap, Trampoline, Break
For Fans Of: Grimes, The Naked and Famous



8. Crystal Castles - Amnesty (I)

Never thought I would hear a new Crystal Castles track since vocalist Alice Glass left and considering the line up change, the tracks they have recently produced are still just as good as their previous albums, they still have that familiar gothic tone within this album but thanks to new vocalist Edith Frances' lyricism focusing on themes of freedom and liberation from oppression injected within unrelenting dance tracks and some slow burners, this is a brilliant comeback album for the duo.

Check Out: Frail, Kept, Char
For Fans Of: Metric, The Knife, Sleigh Bells





7. Milk Teeth - Vile Child



This Bristolian band have built quite a reputation within the punk rock scene as their EPs Smiling Politely and Sad Sack were very promising, but this debut album is a nostalgic throwback to 90s grunge that is very sentimental to troubled teenagehood. It resonates through hard-hitting emotions thanks to its honesty within the song-writing and dexterity within its ever-changing stylings.

Check Out: Kabuki, Brain Food, Swear Jar (again)
For Fans Of: Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Hole






6. Basement - Promise Everything



After a three year hiatus, they are back with the same cohesiveness and dynamic they had from their past albums which made them fresh within the emo scene in the first place. Constructed with lushing melodies and brooding angst in almost every track but refined with new found maturity and confidence with its crisp production, Basement is one of the few bands to produce such an angsty album with subtlety and optimism.

Check Out: Aquasun, Promise Everything
For Fans Of: Brand New, The Wonder Years






5. Issues - Headspace



By far an improvement to their self-titled debut album, they are taking so many risks, from vocalist Michael Bohn handling more clean vocal duties than screaming, Tyler Carter exploring his vocal range, and the band tampering with different mixes of genre from country, jazz, funk and hip hop within a post-hardcore album by utilizing jazz chords and choppy rhythm progression. They have developed in a mature level without ruining the fun, thanks to the two frontmen with strong personalities complementing each other. This album's replayability is endless.

Check Out: Flojo, The Realest
For Fans Of: Bring Me The Horizon



4. Deftones - Gore

They have been a band for 20 years and I would have thought Deftones would start to lose their charm and unpredictability. But their creative songwriting and dynamic hits their peak as this eight album has acuity and depth that we have not explored before in their past discography. Experimenting with some tracks may have not worked, but the complete album is the quintessential melody-heavy Deftones sound with lots of very fresh, unique and interesting ideas without being too chaotic. The more you approach this album, the more your opinion will change on different aspects.

Check Out: Phantom Bride, Doomed User
For Fans Of: Alice In Chains. Tool



3. The 1975 - I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it

After the massive success of their self-titled debut album, they have done a complete slate with their image, completely eclipsed the acclaim and fame they have received and they strained that message within this album. It's filled with catchy radio friendly tracks and ambient experimental interludes, but it's the overall production that flourishes here. Vocalist Matt Healy's witty lyricism concerning religion, image and fame brings out different vibes within an expansive 17-track collection. This effervescent record has more iconoclastic character than its debut, and goes deeper than you'd imagine.

Check Out: If I Believe You, Love Me
For Fans Of: My Bloody Valentine, Sigur Rós


2. Childish Gambino - Awaken, My Love!

Donald Glover is one of the only few to pull off releasing an album that completely strands off the genre he is known for. Here out of the blue, he has unexpectedly presented us a retro-futuristic album, paying homage to 70s psychedelic rock, funk and soul and Glover goes beyond the limitations within his vocal range, utilising unbelievable falsettos and beautifully layered vocals blending with its groovy yet complex instrumentals. Few tracks seems out of place but I understand the satirical comment Glover gives, which he also offers commentary on black culture, parenthood and his anxieties as a new father throughout the album. Fans, expect to have plenty of listens to appreciate this album.

Check Out: Redbone, Stand Tall, Terrified
For Fans Of: Funkadelic, Tame Impala, Prince

1. Bruno Mars - 24K Magic

What else is there to say other than this album is near perfection. The production itself is flawless, and every track is a possible hit. Bruno Mars have crafted these exuberant 9 tracks that brings back the sounds of the 80s and 90s hip-hop and R&B in a fresh way that will get everyone on the dancefloor thanks to Bruno's mischievous tongue in cheek lyrics and vocal abilities that shine throughout these throwback influenced jams, giving an overall funky vibe. Bruno Mars might have just released an instant classic like Michael Jackson's Thriller, only time will tell.

Check Out: There are only 9 tracks, check the entire album out
For Fans Of: Michael Jackson, Prince, James Brown

Top 20 Albums of 2016 (PART 1)

2016 was a tragic year for everyone, countless celebrity deaths, a concerning shift with today's politics, but at least we can agree 2016 was a great year for music as I list down my favourite albums that was released.

20. Skepta - Konnichiwa


Even if you are not an admirer of this type of genre, this album is the definitive grime sound. Skepta experiments with some insane samples, unpredictable production and lyrical dexterity that makes him one of the best in the business right now.


Check Out: Man, Numbers

For Fans Of: Boy Better Know, Kano, Stormzy









19. Dance Gavin Dance - Mothership


Their past two albums have been mediocre as the current singer Tillian Pearson's vocal style have drastically changed the band's sound for a more poppy direction but in this album they have experimented different styles from electronic to 70s funk blended in their post-hardcore technical abilities and Pearson explores his vocal range that are far superior than his past work.


Check Out: Young Robot, Flossie Dickey Bounce, Inspire The Liars

For Fans Of: Circa Survive, The Fall Of Troy






18. Roosevelt - Roosevelt



Marius Lauber knows how to blend indie rock and electronic together in this album as it gives out some techno-infused pop ranging his music inspired from different decades, throwing some funky basslines some 80's Casio tones and tropical instruments. It's catchy and it gives an overall easygoing vibe that would make the perfect night out soundtrack.


Check Out: Belong, Night Moves

For Fans Of: Hot Chip, Glass Animals






17. Hands Like Houses - Dissonants

Not all tracks are necessarily a standout but the post-hardcore band are one of the few bands in the scene that goes more aggressive than their previous efforts as they throw in some djent riffs and metalcore breakdowns out of their comfort zone within their anthemic tracks, it's thoroughly catchy, the production is more refined and vocalist Trenton Woodley's lyrical content is more visceral and poetic than ever.

Check Out: New Romantics, I Am, Colourblind

For Fans Of: Our Last Night, Pierce The Veil, Memphis May Fire




16. HalfNoise - Sudden Feeling

It's definitely an improvement to his debut album Volcano Crowe, changing his style to a more danceable indie pop vibe as almost every track is high tempo and wavy with its mesmerizing riffs combining the vintage 80s synthesizers that's loud yet beautiful. It's short but packed with upbeat summer tracks that feels sensational considering it's mostly about the concept of breakups, just expect some of the tracks on the Spotify Chilled Indie playlists anytime soon.

Check Out: Sudden Feeling, Pictures Of You, Know The Feeling

For Fans Of: Tame Impala



15. Touché Amore - Stage Four



This concept album influenced by the death of vocalist Jeremy Bolm's mother from cancer, is heart-wrenchingly beautiful, expressing the story with such clarity and emotion without being too depressing. It's still fresh, aggressive and relentless which they are mainly known for.

Check Out: Palm Dreams, Skyscraper

For Fans Of: La Dispute, Being As An Ocean









14. Warpaint - Heads Up!

Maybe this album seemed more rushed rather than spontaneous, it's not in the same level as with their last effort self-titled album but because of the influences the members had with their side projects, like JennyLee's album Right On!, there's fresh sounds and style incorporated within this album. From undeniably danceable pop tracks and gorgeous yet intense sounds, they have taken their hypnotic sensuality to different directions.

Check Out: Heads Up, New Song, Dre

For Fans Of: The Kills, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Bat For Lashes





13. Architects - All Gods Have Abandoned Us


Despite following the similar vein of style from their previous album Lost Forever // Lost Together, it still packs with aggressive tracks with important political messages and influences some electronic sounds. The recent death of guitarist and songwriter Tom Searle make its atmospheric production much more haunting, it's certainly their heaviest and darkest album to date.


Check Out: Memento Mori, A Match Made In Heaven, Nihilist

For Fans Of: Parkway Drive, While She Sleeps, Enter Shikari




12. Radiohead - A Moon Shaped Pool

Their latest effort is less experimental than their previous works but it's soothing and elegant with those little details of edgy and cynical sounds, putting you through different emotions. There's perfectionism and ambition within this record, and almost cinematic with its brooding and symphonic arrangements, which is a step up to The King of Limbs.

Check Out: The Numbers, Burn The Witch, True Love Waits

For Fans Of: Massive Attack, Bjork





11. Young Guns - Echoes

It almost seemed like their previous album Ones and Zeros was recently released so I had the lowest expectations with this album for its immediacy. However, it is their most honest and emotional album since their debut All Our Kings Are Dead, but also subtly throwing in electronic sounds within some anthemic tracks that are innately catchy, it's less visceral than their previous effort but it's more abstract thanks to its lyrical content. They're finally polishing their overall sound.

Check Out: Living In A Dream Is Easy, Echoes

For Fans Of: Mallory Knox, Lower Than Atlantis

Top 20 Albums of 2015 (PART 2)

10. Enter Shikari - The Mindsweep

After three albums, Enter Shikari have produced their best and strongest album to date. There's so much exuberance and aggression within the tracks infused with its powerful political messages without being too serious. There is fine line between hope and cataclysm within its sound and it just flows really well altogether. There is definitely no one quite like them at the moment, and this album proves just that.

Check Out: The Last Garrison, Anaesthetist, Constellations

For Fans Of: letlive.







9. Rolo Tomassi - Grievances

The Sheffield mathcore band have been going for 10 years now and still hasn't been recognised that well yet, there is a certain niche to them because of their strong unpredictability and chaotic style within their sound. They're now on their fourth album and they just keep improving, with their experimental sounds and jazz-like drumming. Front woman Eva Spence's atmospheric vocals blends within the tracks but it still doesn't stop her soaring those incredible screams. It's really not for everyone but they deserve the recognition.

Check Out: Opalescent, Stage Knives

For Fans Of: Marmozets







8. Crooks - Are We All the Same Distance Apart

The Cheltenham boys have released their debut album and it's very infectious. The lyrics are meaningful and poetry at its best. They're not afraid to go in deep with struggle and hopelessness within the record but it evokes some pleasing evocative and sometimes dark tracks, there's diversity and purity throughout. They hit hard with some sharp guitar and one of the best drumming I have ever heard in an alternative rock album. It's mesmerising and emotional, and most importantly, it has heart.

Check Out: A Few Peaceful Days, Above Me

For Fans Of: Basement, Brand New







7. Marriages - Salome

This debut album from the Los-Angeles based trio possesses a quite distinct sound. After their EP Mirrors showed a lot of promise, this certainly gave something an autumnal and doomy vibe. Expect some ecstatic atmospheric tracks that are perfect to listen to when you're high, it wanders around aimlessly but it draws you in completely.

Check Out: Skin, The Liar, Salome

For Fans Of: Warpaint, Deafheaven









6. Periphery - Juggernaut: Alpha

I have never come across to the DJent genre until this year, and it's quite extraordinary, with its sharp, aggressive guitar beats and coming across to this band was a pure blessing. Their sound is more refined and this album is well produced. They mix the electronic sound beautifully with the dexterity of the guitars. Overall, this is one of the greatest bands of that genre right now, and this album shows it. If you ever wanted to know what the genre DJent is, check this band out.

Check Out: The Bad Thing, The Scourge, Alpha

For Fans Of: Tool, Architects






5. Turbowolf - Two Hands

The Bristol titans' debut album was so chaotic with non-stop riffs and lots of crazy fun, but with this record, it's more refined and well produced but stayed with their strange Aztec style with their sound. At only 39 minutes, it's very energetic and doesn't hold a punch and goes all in. Expect some classic punk rock riffs, soaring vocals, and some funky moments, you'll be happily exhausted by the end of it.

Check Out: Solid Gold, Rich Gift

For Fans Of: Black Sabbath, Slayer, Death From Above 1979







4. Turnover - Peripheral Vision

Many pop-punk bands this year have strand away their pop-punk roots for a more indie rock sound like Citizen and Title Fight, but this band stood out to me the most because they already hinted the indie rock sound back with their debut album Magnolia and their EP Blue Dream, and now this album which I must say has influences like The Smiths and The Cure, it's atmospheric and the perfect summer soundtrack.

Check Out: Cutting My Fingers Off, New Scream

For Fans Of: The Smiths, The Cure







3. Kendrick Lamar - To Pimp A Butterfly

Lamar's previous album good kid, m.A.A.d city was an impressive feat, making him one of the best rappers to look out for. Then he releases such an important album that delivers a speech in music form. Bringing up the issues of race and life while using excellent instrumentals and good features worked to his advantages. They may sound polarizing but Lamar doesn't shy away on polarizing listeners when it comes to going deep within the issues. There are some jazz-influenced tracks and fearless rhymes, this is an album that will definitely stand the test of time.


Check Out: The Blacker The Berry, King Kunta, For Free? (Interlude)

For Fans Of: Tupac, Joey Bada$$



2. Wolf Alice - My Love Is Cool

They're getting a lot of recognition this year and this album and did successfully well in the charts and it's because this is a well-crafted first effort that has imaginative spirit and sophistication from the Camden indie rockers. Front woman Ellie Roswell's lyrics put some depth into its 90s grunge heavily influenced tracks. It's refreshing and exuberant for today's generation and fans of 90s alternative music will find it nostalgic. 2016 will be an even bigger year for them.

Check Out: You're A Germ, Your Loves Whore, Giant Peach

For Fans Of: Oasis, Hole, Yeah Yeah Yeahs






1. Bring Me The Horizon - That's The Spirit

Back in September, I gave this album a mixed review, explaining that their new sound didn't really work out and that they betrayed the fans to garner more fans. It's been a few months now and I have listened to this album about 40 times now. Every listen is fresh and I always hear something new. It's not necessarily the "perfect" album, but out of every album I've listened to from the British rock scene like Don Broco's Automatic and Young Guns' Ones and Zeros, this stood out the most. Every track is a possible single for the album, and I hear the instruments complementing each other. I explained that Lee Malia's guitar was underused in my review, but sometimes less is better. It's aggressive and subtle at the same time. They're not afraid to experiment, and I'm starting to admire Oli Syke's falsettos, the RnB influences and the last track Oh No especially. It's definitely a grower and one of the biggest surprise of the year.

Check Out: Oh No, Avalanche, Doomed

For Fans Of: Of Mice & Men, Linkin Park

Top 20 Albums of 2015 (PART 1)

It's that time of the year again where I count down my top 20 albums of the year, and it's been quite tough as there were a few that I enjoyed but not necessarily groundbreaking and there were only a few that stood out to me.Anyway here's my list:

20. Halsey - Badlands

This American singer is slowly making her way to Pop stardom and it's no question she produced a collection of electronic goodness and some addictive chorus-chanting tracks. Although it familiarises a bunch of similar artists like Ellie Goulding, it still sounds fresh, hypnotic and sometimes broody.

Check Out: Roman Holiday, Castle, Gasoline
For Fans Of: Ellie Goulding, Lorde










19. Stray From The Path - Subliminal Criminals

The American hardcore band have been underground the past few years but this mammoth of an album really puts them on the top, with Rage Against The Machine influences, each track filled with insane riffs,breakdowns, its hip hop style and even guest vocals from Architects' Sam Carter and Enter Shikari's Rou Reynolds really make it this generation's RATM. Look out for this band, because they will tear some sh*t up.

Check Out: Eavesdropper, D.I.E.P.I.G, First World Problem Child

For Fans Of: Rage Against The Machine, letlive., Limp Bizkit




18. Nothing But Thieves - Nothing But Thieves

The Essex boys are crawling their way to the scene, supporting various acts throughout the year. Their EP Graveyard Whistling was thoroughly impressive and now they have released their debut eponymous album, it is incredible how much style and swagger that bursts out throughout every track, without being too cocky, and vocalist Conor Mason's vocals are just breathtaking that in some tracks there is so much range and emotion it's hard to believe where they'd go from here after this album.

Check Out: Excuse Me, Itch, If I Get High

For Fans Of: Muse, Awolnation





17. Joey Bada$$ - B4.DA.$$

This might just be the New Yorker's best album to date. Although it strikingly similar to most of his mixtapes, there is a reminiscent to 1990s hip-hop that I admired and it's more refined and expression is passionate here. He's showing an advanced level of lyricism and confident social realist flow, this is a brilliant debut album steeped in the history of hip-hop and engaged with the current cultural climate.

Check Out: Like Me, Hazeus View

For Fans Of: Jay-Z, A$AP Rocky







16. Young Guns - Ones and Zeros

After a 3 year absence, they're back, brighter and bolder, and with their third album, it's not necessarily their best as they strand away from the emotionally driven and ferocious sound, but it's a lot more colourful and synth-driven. Filled with anthemic tracks and some addictive riffs, they are honestly back to the alternative rock scene. Welcome back, boys.

Check Out: Speaking In Tongues, Colour Blind, Memento Mori

For Fans Of: Muse, The Killers







15. Twenty one pilots - Blurryface

The Ohio duo are finally getting some recognition, topping the charts with this album, and there's no question why. It's emotionally driven thanks to frontman Tyler Joseph's passionate songwriting and unpredictable rapping, producing such well thought out lyrics. There is a lot of surprises in store with this album,

Check Out: Heavydirtysoul, Ride

For Fans Of: Fall Out Boy, Panic! At The Disco








14. Drenge - Undertow

They've stranded away from the aggressive sound for a more atmospheric and melodic point, there's so much confidence within their tracks,from the classic guitar riffs to the broody vocals, it's visceral and utterly brilliant overall. You can recognise the band's progression being improved into something amazing.

Check Out: Running Wild, Undertow

For Fans Of: Oasis, Kings of Leon









13. Jamie xx - In Colour

I have already been a fan of the band The XX and now that Jamie have produced an incredible electronic/house style album is very impressive. There is so much dexterity, rich sound that just dazzles and there's so many elements to pick apart, it engages us to this special adventure that is emotional and strange at the same time.

Check Out: Gosh, Sleep Sound

For Fans Of: The XX, Disclosure








12. Carly Rae Jepsen - E.MO.TION

I have not been a fan of the Canadian singer ever since she released the infectious "Call Me Maybe" and wasn't impressed with her first single "I Really Like You" but this album was the biggest surprise as it has the most well-produced electronic tracks I have ever heard with some impressive vocals from Jepsen, there is a funky undertone with some bold synthesizers that are reminiscent to 80s pop music. This is a great achievement from the singer that definitely deserves some attention.

Check Out: Emotion, Boy Problems, Run Away With Me

For Fans Of: Taylor Swift





11. City and Colour - If I Should Go Before You

It sounds a lot more different than his previous albums, going with some fresh inspirational ideas, like the first track "Woman" with Pink Floyd influences. There is a familiarity with its concept but it's presented beautifully with his soul-like vocals, its rhythm, and its overall bold sound that is refreshing and comfortable at the same time. Listening to this in its entirety is a whole different kind of experience.

Check Out: Woman, If I Should Go Before You

For Fans Of: Jeff Buckley, Pink Floyd

Top 5 Gigs of 2015

So this year, I have been to a lot of gigs, just over 20 gigs and I had such a blast of a time and a few I can mention that were incredible included The 1975, Wolf Alice, Young Guns and Beartooth. Anyway, here's my top 5 which just showed their energetic, the best setlist, the performance, the support acts, and the experience itself.

5. Bring Me The Horizon - O2 Academy Birmingham (29/11/15) MATINEE SHOW

After seeing them play at Reading Festival in 2013 in which they played such an intense but fun set, I was excited to see these guys again. After their overall sound transition, I had little hope that they would produce a brilliant set, but they played a fairly decent setlist, starting it off with their latest songs from their album That's The Spirit, which sounds immaculate live, especially Happy Song, but hearing songs like Shadow Moses and The House of Wolves again, the energy in the crowd goes wild and vocalist Oli Sykes really does seem to belt out some soaring screams. Wasn't very a big fan of the support act Neck Deep, but their setlist, performance, and energy overall made it one of the highlights.

4. Hoobastank, P.O.D, Alien Ant Farm - Rock City, Nottingham (09/05/15)

These one-hit wonder bands back in the 2000s formed my taste of music in my childhood days. Songs like Movies and Smooth Criminal by Alient Ant Farm, Alive and Youth of the Nation by P.O.D and Hoobastank's The Reason and Crawling in the Dark were always playing at the Kerrang channel back then and were one of the reasons I listen to rock music today. Never have I imagined I would see these guys live ever, so getting the chance to see them play these nostalgic songs were definitely a magical experience and my 13 year old self would be pleased. Yes, they looked a little worn out but they have not failed belting out some classics in their setlists. Hard to argue it can't be one of the highlights this year.

3. Don Broco - Rock City, Nottingham (09/12/15)

This was the second time I have seen these guys at Rock City, and somehow they always bring out so much energy in this venue, like 2 years ago when they headlined Hit The Deck Festival. Now they're back with such swagger and cheekiness we all love, and they have such a flawless setlist, Automatic and Thug Workout being the standouts, and of course they play Rage Against The Machine at one point because why not? I was impressed with the two support acts Arcane Roots and Coasts and will give them a listen but overall, there is no doubt this was one of the craziest gigs I have been too.

2. Brand New - O2 Academy, Sheffield (19/09/15)

This was a magical night for me because about 6 years ago I was religiously listening to these guys, especially their second most well-known album Deja Entendu and it was a shockingly amazing surprise when they played that album in its entirety, the first time I have ever seen them live and they play that! Everything about that experience was awesome, from support act Basement's setlist and playing songs like Covet and Whole, to hearing Deja Entendu's opener Tautou first and tearing up to Jesus Christ towards the end, my 15 year old emotional distressed self would be a little jealous, definitely a memorable night I have ever experienced.

1. Death From Above 1979 - The Institute, Birmingham (26/02/15)

Where to begin? Their second album The Physical World were the best album I have heard last year and getting the chance to hear these new songs and the classics it got me elated. The entire night was just flawless. Starting from Turbowolf's ridiculously energetic presence, and closing the set with Let's Die being one of the highlights of the night. Then DFA 1979 opening with screeching bass and pounding bass with Turn It Out, and Virgins, Cheap Talk and the classic tune Romantic Rights being the orgasmic highlights, then closing it with the second album title track, I just want to relive that whole experience again.

3 Albums to Check Out This Week

September is almost over and is overflowing with new great albums, so I thought I'd recommend you to check out these certain ones that are out this week...

CHVRCHES - Every Open Eye


This second effort from the electro-pop trio is an effervescent achievement as it packs a lot of punch, most tracks bursting with bright synths and addictive dance beats that familiarises some 80s pop music. It's certainly an improvement from their debut album and it's a must-listen for any fans of electronic music or pop music in general.


Check Out: Clearest Blue, Leave a Trace
For Fans Of: M83, The Naked and Famous, Passion Pit








The Dead Weather - Dodge And Burn


This brilliant third album from the supergroup consist some of the most riff-tastically cool scuzz-rock tracks that are well produced, which is visible from Jack White's past discography. Most tracks are driven with attitude and style, it's utterly relentless. If you like some psychedelic rock music, then definitely check this album out.


Check Out: I Feel Love (Every Million Miles), Buzzkill(er)
For Fans Of: Queens of the Stone Age, Deap Vally, The Black Keys







Silversun Pickups - Better Nature


These alt-rockers have proven themselves as consistent throughout their career with an impressive discography. Without losing their touch, they cover some new ground here that is slightly different to their past albums. Nonetheless, the band's perfect harmonies, intimate distorted guitars and soothing vocals complementing its mix of slow and upbeat moments within the tracks are just so mesmerising.


Check Out: Nightlight, Connection, Latchkey Kids
For Fans Of: The Smashing Pumpkins, Pixies, The Flaming Lips

5 Bands To Watch This Year

5. Hyena

The Birmingham punk-rock quartet are ones to watch this year, After seeing them support Tubrowolf this April, they'll be getting some attention from indie-rock listeners out there soon with their Queens of the Stone Age and Nirvana-esque sound; some crunchy killer riffs and soaring Kobain-like vocals.

For Fans of: Darlia, Turbowolf, Nirvana

4. Amber Run


There's no doubt in my mind that these guys will be massive this year. They have this atmosphere that is similar to Bastille but still has that alternative sound like Kodaline, with their great harmonies and uplifting lyrics. They just finished their UK tour and just released their impressive debut album 5 AM, and it won't be long till fans chant their songs in arenas.

For fans of: Kodaline, Bastille, Hozier

3. Young Kato

There is not much to say about the indie rock band except they're slowly building their reputation and has a decent fan base and after listening to their first self-titled EP, I'm impressed and they have some serious potential. With their upcoming debut, Don't Wait 'Til Tomorrow coming soon, their indie rock sound will be attracting the mainstream audience soon enough.

For fans of: Years & Years, Two Door Cinema Club, Catfish and The Bottlemen

2. Nothing But Thieves

I have seen them supporting various bands and slowly building their fan base, recently saw them support the indie-rock band Darlia, and seeing them support alternative band Young Guns.They have a strange sound that seem to attract different listeners, with their alternative rock sound, and some aggressive punk punch, but still  have that pop vibe to their music. It'll be interesting what they will offer with their debut album.

For fans of: The Neighbourhood, Muse, OneRepublic

1. PVRIS

They're gradually making their way to the top, already being a favourite in the states after supporting some famous post-hardcore bands and playing at Warped Tour. They just finished supporting Sleeping With Sirens and Pierce The Veil World Tour, and also just finsihed supporting Lower Than Atlantis on their first UK tour, and already sold out their headline shows in Europe. They're really getting everyone's attention with their aggressive, broody sound, and it won't be long till they sell arena tours all over the world.

For fans of: Paramore, LIGHTS, Tonight Alive

Top 20 Albums of 2014 (PART 2)

10. Ben Howard - I Forgot Where We Were

The singer-songwriter has been getting lots of recognition already with his debut album and winning BRIT awards, and we weren’t expecting a follow-up that drifts away from the acoustic guitar and lovelorn lyrics that fans admired. There’s darker beauty shown, with his echoing electric guitar notes, ambient atmosphere and a mournful voice layered with shadow harmonies. It’s darker, richer and stranger than his previous album but it’s much more ambiguously potent.

Check out: I Forgot Where We Were, She Treats Me Well, Small Things

9. Catfish and the Bottlemen - The Balcony

They may seem like another indie band that came out of nowhere this year, but with their debut effort they have shown a lot of promise. Every track takes you to a nostalgic trip back to 2004 when Kaiser Chiefs and Bloc Party reached their best potential. It’s filled with loud anthemic choruses, youthful energy and some relatable lyrics that today’s generation will admire. They’re already conquering with touring around the UK at the moment and it won’t be long till they become the next big thing next year.

Check out: Cocoon, Kathleen, Homesick

8. PVRIS - White Noise

Another female-led act that has put something new to the table for the alternative rock genre, the Boston trio delivers a dark and dreamy album bursting with beat-driven guitar that almost sounds trashy fusing with electronic elements, synth-laden grooves atmospheric textures and thanks to vocalist Lynn Gvnn’s brooding, aggressive style energy, the album is edgy and sleek but passionate and soon enough they will be at the same heights as where Paramore are now.

Check out: Mirrors, St. Patrick, My House

7. Crosses – Crosses

Chino Moreno has been pretty busy for the past few years with Deftones and his side project Palms, but that doesn’t stop him continue being more flexible. Now with another side project called Crosses, this time it’s a lot darker and has more of industrial rock-esque style that has the likes of Nine Inch Nails, and the creepy synths and groovy bass complements Moreno’s blissful vocals. Another great effort from one of the most talented and hardworking musicians in the music business at the moment.

Check out: Telepathy, The Epilogue

6. Marmozets - The Weird and Wonderful Marmozets

Years of hard work has finally paid off for the Yorkshire quintet; after a few EPs and touring all over the UK, and what an aggressive debut effort they have released. They still retain their math-rock skills; offbeat time signatures and some killer riffs, there is a lot of catchiness through their tracks without being too radio-friendly, and thanks to Becca’s soaring screams, every track is a perfect ingredient for an impressive debut.

Check out: Move Shake and Hide, Particle, Hit The Wave

5. Broods – Evergreen

The New Zealand duos are other hidden gems that deserve more recognition. Already getting positive reviews from their EPs, they finally released their debut album and it is atmospheric at best. Vocalist Georgia Nott takes it to the next level with her vocal layering and harmonies that just sounds idyllic and affecting, while the music production is top class, with its bass-driving beats and choral synths. It’s a striking indie pop album that Lorde and MS MR fans will admire.

Check out: L.A.F, Everytime, Mother & Father

4. Alt-J - This Is All Yours

After a lot of critical praise from their debut effort two years ago, there were high expectations with this follow up and it was succeeded. There is so much magic conveyed through these tracks, filled with monastic chanting, diffusive synths, elastic vocals, it has a holistic atmosphere that is almost autumnal and apocalyptic at the same time. And there’s enough hidden gems that seems out of place in the album but are definitely an addictive tune.

Check out: Every Other Freckle, Left Hand Free, Hunger of the Pine

3. Warpaint – Warpaint

It’s been a long wait but the American indie-rock group is back with their eponymous second album, and when they commented they were jamming and free-flowing during the process with this album, shows how their creativity is ingenious and visionary. There is so much experimentation heard in every track, it’s richer in atmosphere and synthetic ambiance that it results in a curious mixture of pleasant and uneasy. They yield and enjoyable, haunting deluge of whispered expressive damage and spatial exploration, and this drives them forward as masters of their talent.

Check out: Love Is To Die, Disco//Very, Feeling Alright

2. Royal Blood - Royal Blood

These Brighton duo rockers came out of nowhere last year, slowly building up their reputation by supporting famous bands this year, and for creating such an impressive debut. Every track is addictive, energetic and groovy that familiarises the rock genre and can be compared with other contemporary rock acts like The White Stripes and Death From Above 1979 but has enough pop appeal for the mainstream audience. God knows what kind of stuff they will have in store for us in the future, but it’s undeniable that this album is a defining album of the rock genre for today’s generation, and it will get a lot of repetitive listens. It’s simple yet brilliant.

Check out: Loose Change, Figure It Out, Little Monster

1. Death From Above 1979 - The Physical World

After their breakup and reunion over the past decade, the Canadian duos are back with a strong follow up album. Before the Brighton duo Royal Blood introduced us with the bass guitar and drums act, the noisy Toronto duo were crafting a fast and heavy noise in 2004 that no one has really never heard before and that would become a cult hit and it has impacted on the decade of music that followed. Now back, the pounding trash bass lines and weighty beats that made their debut effort great is still there and merging them with some in your face synths emerged these layers of creativity. While the lyrics not only deal with the digital age but also adolescence and sexual politics, the album is almost a middle-finger to the technology and the new mainstream music today. It’s a destructively fun record, and they deserve more recognition for their primitive power of their music.

Check out: Virgins, Always On, Trainwreck 1979

What was your favourite album this year? let me know in the comments below!