Listening Log

I really didn’t like this album, and I even question why it exists in The Strokes catalog. I am not one to say that the artist is wrong, but I feel this misses the mark compared to their back catalog of diverse excursions. Auto tune. I also hate the auto tune.

I remember being disappointed by this return after a few years away, and after hearing it again now, I remember why. This lacks the soul of what made Bluejuice such a soulful band. I wish that they had stayed retired rather than come back out with such a weak selection of songs. Not worth listening to.

This album just always captures a vibe, like a lazy Sunday afternoon in the sun by the water, sipping on beers with a really good friend who just knows what you want to say, without you needed to say all the pleasantries. I don't know why, but it just feels like home.

Favourite song: Archie, Marry Me

There are some real bangers on this album. An honest vibe that really hits home in this sweet spot of earnest nostalgia, coupled in the DIY punk experience that only a band that really cares can deliver.

The opener is a kick in the guts, reminding you of what Los Campesinos! has built a career on, but there is a depth to later tracks in the album that show a lot of growth.

Favourite track: Flucloxacillin

After watching the documentary the other night I've gone back through their albums again. One Hot Minute was always one of my favourites, mostly because of just how different it is from their other releases. Navarro and the dark tones really come here to create something that they had never done before this album, and never did again.

Favourite track: One Big Mob | My Friends

Pretty mediocre album. Not a single song really stood out. Won't give it another listen.

I really liked seeing Destrends live every time I had the chance when I lived in Melbourne. They are a cool and fun band, who wear their influences on their sleeves with pride. It's been a hot minute since they released anything, and I was a little sad to see that it's kinda the same as all their other stuff, and now feels like they are a one trick kinda band. There's nothing wrong with that. But perhaps I have outgrown it.

Favourite track: Hard to Love

On a few listens, I really like this album. It's comforting and reminds me of better times, but it is ultimately lacking the bite of the earlier releases from Joyce Manor. Still a fun listen, and glad to have it out there in the world.

Favourite Track: All My Friends Are So Depressed

The best vibes from a Japanese punk band that I’ve long admired. As I learn more Japanese my understanding of the songs only makes me love them more. This is still my favourite album of theirs.

Favorurite song: Nareseyo Narase

It’s a pretty basic but solid listen, spearheading a new wave of emo that just fits my vibe at the moment. Not an all timer, but a comforting listen.

Favourite track: Lemon Mouth

Haven't listened to Hockey Dad for quite a while, and noticed that they had a new EP. It's fine but literally not a single standout track. Not making my top list any time soon.

A return to form for the heart-on-your-sleeve Melbourne giants. I wasn't a huge fan of their last release, but Once I was Wild has this introspection that is really hitting me right now as I re-evaluate my life and current focuses.

Favourite track: American Heaven

This was an unexpected find, a dreamscape of crushing guitars that are being washed over by some truly haunting pop vocals that create something that feels like it was dragged from the late 90s into today. Definitely want to see these folks next time they are in Japan.

A wall of sound. The clashing of chords and droning vocals. Bright and chaotic guitar-driven choruses. That is how I would describe Aussie duo Chimers, and upon finding this album this year, it has become a regular rotation in my listening. One part Nation Blue, one small sliver of Eddy Current, this album doesn't have big moments, but a solid consistent vibe that just feels great to listen.

Favourite track: Everything's Green

How are Deftones still this relevant? private music sounds like an amalgamation of their entire discography, immediately nostalgic, but with enough new exploration to feel a little alien at the same time.

It's a feel good fuzzy time, that captures a more cohesive sound than what I heard on their first album. I don't know why this is the album that pulled me, but I think I will be listening to a lot more Joyce Manor this year.