The first official solo album from Years & Years lead singer Olly Alexander is, as expected, another vibrant expression of queer identity, building on his work from 2022’s ‘Night Call’, the trio's final release. This loosely themed album takes its name from a 19th-century coded language used by gay men, encapsulating a blend of hidden homosexuality with an ‘80s Pet Shop Boys-inspired synth-driven style and the signature crystalline electropop that Years & Years is known for. The album presents snapshots of sexual tension, cruising, closeted ‘down-low’ men, desire, ecstasy, and intimacy. Yet amid the gritty undercurrents of this nostalgic aesthetic (evident in the suggestive ‘Shadow of Love’), there are recurring elements of Olly’s past upbeat, metallic alt-pop (like the Danny L Harle-produced ‘Archangel’), culminating in a timeless, carefree mosaic – a contrast particularly illustrated by the fusion of crunchy synthpop and sweet dance vibes in ‘Make Me A Man’. Except for the overly polished, Scandipop-influenced ‘Dizzy’ (the single that represents the UK’s entry for the 2024 Eurovision with no points), what stands out about ‘Polari’ is that Olly’s love for alternative electronic extravagance – a style established with his previous group – remains intact: as seen in the avant-garde chamber pop essence of the title track; the edgy, energetic ‘MYSM’ with its kazoo-like bridge; the playful satire of ‘I Know’; or the dreamy love ballad ‘Heal You’, which shines against its erratic, guttural synth backdrop. ‘Polari’ is a brilliant piece of punchy alt-pop that celebrates the resilient and enduring histories of the queer community, showcasing Olly Alexander’s captivating and knowledgeable artistry as a solo artist.
Grammy-nominated musician Durand Bernarr has revealed that his third studio album, titled 'BLOOM', will be released on February 18th. The album was hinted at with the
Croeso! Witajcie w comiesięcznym przeglądzie nowej muzyki walijskiej od Clash. Tutaj przyglądamy się najlepszym nowym wydaniom od wschodzących artystów z Walii. Po tym, jak
Avant-pop futurist Oklou has released a new single titled 'blade bird'. The electronic artist is set to launch her upcoming album 'Choke Enough' this week on February 7th, as a
Since the beginning of their careers, Maribou State has aimed to combine classic electronica with a genre-defying style. They incorporate aspects of soul, jazz,
Several performers have been announced for this year's MOBO Awards ceremony. The enduring advocate for music genres rooted in Black culture is set to take the stage.
Close To Monday is back with their new single 'Come Undone'. The European duo is making significant impacts, as 2025 is poised to mark their inaugural North American tour.
Not unexpectedly, another remarkable achievement in queer expression.