Konstantin

Lovetune for Vacuum is a stunning debut that showcases Soap&Skin’s exceptional talent for creating deeply emotional and intricately crafted music. The album strikes a powerful balance between fragility and intensity, blending minimalist piano arrangements with haunting electronic elements.

Anja Plaschg’s voice is nothing short of breathtaking, carrying a raw vulnerability that transforms each song into an intimate confession. Her interpretation of themes like grief and longing is not only heartfelt but also displays remarkable artistic depth.

A standout track is “Sleep,” where her expressive vocals and poignant delivery shine the brightest. It encapsulates the album’s essence: emotional in an elaborated form, drawing the listener into a beautifully melancholic world.

While a few moments might feel… More

II by Moderat is an extraordinary journey that effortlessly fuses intricate electronic rhythms with emotive depth, crafting a soundscape that both soothes and excites. Each track feels like an exploration, building from the atmospheric to the explosive, offering moments of introspection balanced with powerful, uplifting energy. The production is meticulous, with every beat, synth, and vocal placement feeling deliberate yet organic. I feel incredibly fortunate to have discovered this album, thanks to two friends who, independently of each other, introduced me to it. Since then, it has become an essential part of my musical life. Even after numerous listens, the album continues to captivate and surprise, with each track revealing new nuances. II is a timeless work of art that… More

Burning Boat by Pupkulies & Rebecca is an infectious and uplifting track that beautifully blends indie-pop, folk, and electronic elements. The song’s catchy melodies and rhythmic grooves, paired with soothing vocals, create an expansive and warm atmosphere. The track evolves dynamically, offering a fresh yet familiar vibe, while the lyrics touch on themes of freedom and renewal.

Though I’m usually not a big fan of German music, the artists I do enjoy truly stand out, and Pupkulies & Rebecca are definitely one of those rarities. This group and their album Burning Boat showcase a distinctive style that effortlessly combines genres into something truly special. It’s a must-listen for anyone looking for innovative, genre-blending music.

Emilie Simon’s Mue is a stunning showcase of her unique blend of ethereal soundscapes and delicate melodies. The album is a perfect mix of electronic elements and lush, symphonic arrangements, creating an immersive listening experience. Simon’s voice is as captivating as ever, weaving through tracks with both power and vulnerability. The way she crafts atmosphere is nothing short of magical, transporting listeners to another world.

Having attended her concert this year, I can attest to the incredible energy she brings to her live performances. The connection between her music and the audience was palpable, making it a truly memorable experience. Seeing her perform live only deepened my appreciation for her artistry. Mue feels like a natural progression of… More

Babel by Mumford & Sons is like an open road stretching endlessly, each song a vivid landscape to explore. Blending heartfelt folk with powerful rock, it captures the freedom of travel—the wind in your hair, the promise of discovery at every turn. Tracks like “Hopeless Wanderer,” “I Will Wait,” and the title song “Babel” weave an emotional journey, balancing introspection with boundless energy. It’s an album that invites you to embrace the unknown and revel in the spirit of adventure—a true anthem for wanderers at heart.

Babel by Mumford & Sons is like an open road stretching endlessly, each song a vivid landscape to explore. Blending heartfelt folk with powerful rock, it captures the freedom of travel—the wind in your hair, the promise of discovery at every turn. Tracks like “Hopeless Wanderer,” “I Will Wait,” and the title song “Babel” weave an emotional journey, balancing introspection with boundless energy. It’s an album that invites you to embrace the unknown and revel in the spirit of adventure—a true anthem for wanderers at heart.

From New Beginnings by Friska Viljor is an uplifting and heartfelt album that beautifully captures the duo’s signature mix of indie folk and emotional storytelling. With its vibrant melodies, raw vocals, and introspective lyrics, the album feels like a warm embrace that inspires hope and renewal. Tracks like “Unless You Love Me” and “My Own Satellite” stand out, showcasing their knack for balancing melancholy with a sense of optimism. A must-listen for fans of deeply personal yet universally relatable music.

The album Paris by ZAZ is an absolute gem! Her powerful voice and unique blend of French chanson with jazz and pop create a vivid, romantic atmosphere that transports you straight to the streets of Paris. Each track feels like a little love letter to the city, capturing its charm, energy, and soul in a way only ZAZ can.

I was so excited when I found out she was performing just around the corner in Utrecht—but sadly, by the time I tried to get tickets, it was already too late! The venue was small, and demand was high. Missing out was a bit of a heartbreak, but it only makes me even more eager to see her live in… More

Humbug by Arctic Monkeys is a bold and mesmerizing journey, capturing the band’s shift to a darker, more complex sound. Known initially for their electrifying indie rock and catchy, observational lyrics, Arctic Monkeys exploded onto the music scene in the early 2000s thanks to the internet—an origin story that’s now legendary. Sharing their early songs on MySpace, the band quickly gained a grassroots following, setting a precedent for how the internet could catapult raw, unsigned talent into the spotlight.

What About The Tip Jars? by The Riptide Movement is an album that captures the magic and raw energy of live street music, a spirit that I was lucky enough to experience firsthand. I stumbled upon these guys performing in the heart of Dublin while visiting friends, and their sound was unforgettable—filled with the passion and charm that make Irish music so captivating.

“Straight from the Heart” by Ann Peebles feels like a dear friend sharing her deepest secrets with you. Listening to this album is an intimate experience—Peebles’ voice, so genuine and rich with feeling, reaches out and pulls you into her world. Each song is a chapter in her story, full of heartache, resilience, and a vulnerability that feels beautifully raw.

Dillon’s “Live at Haus der Berliner Festspiele” is a mesmerizing experience that transports listeners into the heart of her captivating live performance. The album beautifully captures the intimate atmosphere of the concert, showcasing Dillon’s haunting vocals and intricate melodies that resonate deeply. Each track unfolds like a story, weaving together emotions that range from vulnerability to empowerment.

Welcome to the Pleasuredome is a bold, unique debut album by Frankie Goes to Hollywood that perfectly captures the essence of 1980s pop culture. With high-energy anthems like Relax and the epic title track Welcome to the Pleasuredome, the album combines provocative themes, captivating beats, and thought-provoking lyrics. The band sets new standards in sound and style that still resonate today. This album is not just a musical journey but a true statement—powerful, electrifying, and unforgettable. An absolute must for lovers of iconic synth-pop and exceptional songwriting!

Phrazes for the Young marks Julian Casablancas’ venture into uncharted territory, expanding beyond the tight garage rock aesthetics of The Strokes, which I love to listen either, into an ambitious blend of synth-pop, post-punk, and electronic experimentation. Unlike The Strokes, where raw guitar-driven energy defines the band’s identity, Casablancas here embraces layered synths, programmed beats, and sprawling arrangements. Tracks like “11th Dimension” show his penchant for catchy, introspective lyrics, but the polished, electronic production contrasts sharply with the gritty, urban angst of The Strokes. While this album may initially feel more eclectic and sonically dense, it reveals Casablancas’ creative depth, exploring themes and sounds that wouldn’t quite fit into The Strokes' signature style. This solo album ultimately complements… More

Strict Joy by The Swell Season is a beautifully crafted album that captures the essence of love, loss, and longing. The combination of Glen Hansard’s heartfelt vocals and Markéta Irglová’s ethereal harmonies creates a rich, emotional landscape that resonates deeply with listeners. Each track is a poignant exploration of relationships, reflecting both the joy and the pain that come with them.

Celebrating 45 years since its release, The Fine Art of Surfacing by The Boomtown Rats remains an essential part of the punk and new wave landscape. With its bold lyrics and energetic sound, the album still resonates today. Although “I Don’t Like Mondays” is perhaps the most played and discussed track, its haunting relevance endures. Bob Geldof’s inspiration, the tragic school shooting that inspired the song, remains sadly poignant. Despite its heavy theme, the song has a lasting impact, and the album as a whole stands as a sharp, socially conscious masterpiece that continues to captivate.

Brisa Roché's album "All Right Now" is a delightful escape that beautifully balances lightness with engaging melodies, ensuring listeners never feel bored. As someone who typically leans towards British and French music, discovering this album has been a refreshing surprise.

The music flows effortlessly, with enchanting melodies that evoke a sense of warmth and positivity. Roché's unique vocal style effortlessly draws you in, creating an intimate connection with each song. The lyrics resonate with a sense of hope and resilience, making them perfect for uplifting the spirit and inspiring a brighter outlook.

On a recent crisp autumn day, with the sun shining despite the chill outside, I experienced the magic of this album. After a restful night, I prepared a… More

Lenny Kravitz has been synonymous with rock and funk for decades, and his ability to blend genres like soul, blues, and hard rock has earned him global recognition. “Strut” (2014) was an album full of energy and confidence, while “Raise Vibration” (2018) was a spiritual journey into Kravitz’s soul, carrying a strong social message. Kravitz demonstrated that even after all these years, Kravitz could still deliver creatively powerful work. However, “Blue Electric Light” from 2024 disappoints me. While it’s unmistakably Kravitz, it feels interchangeable and lacks inspiration.

On “Mind, Body & Soul,” the then 17-year-old Joss Stone showcases remarkable maturity and musical versatility. The album ranges from powerful ballads like “Right to Be Wrong” to hit singles like “You Had Me” and funk-influenced tracks such as “Don’t Cha Wanna Ride” and the bluesy “Young at Heart.” Stone’s voice effortlessly captures the essence of each genre, making this album a compelling display of her vocal strength and artistic range.

"Some Great Reward" is Depeche Mode at their peak, blending industrial grit with mainstream appeal—and it's still one of the best electronic albums out there! Sure, "People Are People" is on it, but the real gems are the moody piano ballad "Somebody," the fierce "Master and Servant" with its biting social commentary, and the dark, slow-build anthem "Blasphemous Rumors." Even the lesser-known tracks like "Lie to Me" and "It Doesn't Matter" shine. With Alan Wilder's spot-on arrangements and David Gahan’s voice finding its groove, this album is Depeche Mode at their boldest!

Monday’s album marks a bold reinvention, blending her signature soul sound with vibrant Latin influences. The result is her most compelling work in years, featuring tight songwriting, jazzy grooves, and standout details like Dave Valentin’s Latin flute and warm vibraphone tones. Tracks like "Play It By Ear" and "Zurich Samba" showcase her artistic depth, making this album a standout. It’s a gem worth seeking out.

On this album, the comparison with Björk is made easy, especially with „Fingertips“ and „Tuna Fish“. But to be honest, Emiliana sings more beautifully. Especially „Telepathy“ surprised me a lot. The production by Roland Orzabal (Tears for Fears) is well noticeable. Beautiful album, intriguing singer.