Panji & the Buffalo – Rare Moves (2017)
If you came across the new Panji & the Buffalo EP without a proper introduction, you’d be forgiven...
instrumental
BISONwar – BISONwar (2017)
Pasadena trio BisonWAR are in interesting territory on their self-titled debut. BisonWAR is a dark album, not least implied by its eerie artwork of a twilit winter forest, but it is not an aggressive album. Like a handful of other math rock greats, the likes of Ativin and Town Portal, the band explore heavier terrains but without diving completely into the metal tier.
EXCLUSIVE // Stream Lambhorn’s new album ‘Cascade’
Unsurprisingly Lambhorn's debut album is a well-structured and exquisitely produced instrumental release, effortlessly moving from highs to lows. The album's six tracks are eclectic, dense and teeming with catchy guitar melodies.
NENGU – Pongyaron (2017)
From the opening rapidfire staccato keys twirling over the syncopated percussion, it is clear that Nengu's Pongyaron is intended to be a blitz. A fast aural assault.
CHON – Homey (2017)
Back when I was but a mere pleb, it was the triple-attack of CHON, Mogwai and a happy accident while looking for some Falco, that drew me into math rock.
Alpha Male Tea Party – Health (2017)
Alpha Male Tea Party have developed a uniquely identifiable sound that stands out amidst the sea of derivative bands we are hearing these days. Their songs have both a meaty weight and blasting energy, as well as a strong sense of melody and an ever-flowing structure. Basically, they play loud, beautifully nasty, groovy hooks, with some nice breathing room in between.
Visuals – Lekker (2017)
One might be forgiven for hearing South Korea's Visuals and expecting a pop-up carnival. In their wild debut Lekker, the band bring together a bounty of lavish staccato-style guitar effects and samples, the sort that give bands like Battles and Adebisi Shank their oddball and fantastical flavors.
Valerian Swing – Nights (2017)
I’ve really struggled with associating myself with the instrumental world recently. It’s difficult finding something that I feel...
Fox Territory – Degressive Fusion (2017)
It's not often you hear trumpets over the top of progressive metal. This is just one of the motifs in Fox Territory's ferocious and versatile debut...
The Physics House Band – Mercury Fountain (2017)
The Physics House Band have, once again, created a clever, yet extremely enjoyable, record that both pays its homages and pushes envelopes.