Apologies, no full reviews this week, due to a lack of time and inspiration. Ultimately the albums released last week didn’t get me over-excited. I had high hopes for Loyle Carner‘s sophomore Not Waving, But Drowning, but ultimately it felt a little one-dimensional stylistically. If I were to pick out an album of the week, it would probably be Happy Now by post-punk veterans Gang of Four, but there’s not much in it to be honest. Hopefully this week’s batch will be better.
Gang Of Four – Happy Now
This is the ninth proper studio album from these post-punk veterans, feels a little tired but still has some good moments.
Rating: 6.5/10 – Album of the Week
Leafcutter John – Yes! Come Parade With Us
Sometimes interesting electronica but failed to hit the spot consistently.
Rating: 6.5/10
Heather Woods Broderick – Invitation
Nice ethereal singer-songwriting here, but just nice rather than impressive.
Rating: 6.5/10
Loyle Carner – Not Waving, But Drowning
An enjoyable slice of laid-back hip-hop but lacking in musical diversity.
Rating: 6/10
Cage The Elephant – Social Cues
American indie-rock with a few quality tracks interspersed – but not enough to grab your attention long-term.
Rating: 6/10
Fat White Family – Serfs Up!
An album of initial promise from these south-London rockers, but unfortunately soon disappears up its own arse.
Rating: 5.5/10
Stealing Sheep – Big Wows
Fluffy electro and indie pop that didn’t really do it for me.
Rating: 5/10
The Album Review 