Review: Daft Punk, Random Access Memories

Eight years is an eternity in the music world. While most artists release albums every two to three years, Daft Punk has never been one to go with the flow. Homework came in 1997, followed by Discovery four years later, and Human After All four years after that. Then eight years go by with no new studio album (save for the soundtrack to Tron, which everyone...and I mean everyone... expected to be a proper Daft Punk album, which it was not). Finally, in 2013 we have Random Access Memories. Following some brilliant marketing campaigns and somehow keeping the music very, very under wraps, the French duo has released the fourth full length of their illustrious career. But how does it fair?

Review: The Shouting Matches, Grownass Man

Who else knew that Justin Vernon had another band up his sleeve besides Bon Iver? Not me, I'll tell you that much. I wasn't expecting much from this record, and I'm not really sure why. Maybe it's because I didn't want another airy, sentimental record that sounded just like Bon Iver. Don't get me wrong, I love Bon Iver. But I was pleasantly surprised to find a bluesy, rock-infused record of….well….change. It's almost like Bon Iver doesn't exist when you listen to The Shouting Matches record. Let's dive into Grownass Man…

Early Thoughts: Marla Mase

I don't mind weird stuff. I've heard some pretty odd albums during my time reviewing music, and some of them are pretty brilliant. The best artists know how to channel their eclectic tastes into music and make it work. Marla Mase's new album Speak showcases the singer/songwriter's talents, but it can border on a little too out there at times. This album is all over the place: going from a punk-style tune like "Piece of Peace" to a slow building synth-focused song like "Open Up My Heart" which features elements of poetry from the artist. "Lioness" is similar to the previous tracks I've spoken about, but features Mase incorporating funk and world music within the spoken world style.

Early Thoughts: Grant Lyle

I haven't always been a guitar-focused individual. Most of the music I really get into is mostly percussion driven. Some friends of mine have even said I've got a little bit of drummer in me. Canadian singer/songwriter and guitarist Grant Lyle's newest album So There is a primarily guitar-focused record, and while it's not bad, it leaves quite a bit to be desired. Check out after the jump for some early thoughts.

Early Thoughts: Monks of Mellonwah

Through a first listen, Sydney-based rock outfit Monks of Mellonwah may not have my heart, but they definitely have my attention. Their third EP in three years, Sky & The Dark Night leaves a little to be desired on a few fronts. The album (albeit 3 tracks and clocking in at just over 8 minutes) takes you on a bit of journey that is likely to remind you of something you saw in a movie once. It's best to listen to the full mix and hear it in its entirety, and for good reason. The band seems to rank up there with others that can do a lot with such a short span of time. Listening to the EP brings to mind some of what RED and even Between the Buried and Me have accomplished.