Back catalogue: Indie/Alternative

Review: There's no rock frontman quite like Greg Dulli, and even in middle age his melancholy and morally ambiguous loverman persona appears to be maturing like the proverbial fine wine. Moreover, the blend of soulful heart-on-sleeve balldeering and gritty rock-outs finds new vistas and moments of intensity on 'In Spades' - lurking somewhere between the testosterone bluster of Springsteen and the slinky grooves of Motown, yet with the addition of noisy electronic grooves, as on the opener 'Birdland,' only bolstering their arsenal. It's a treat to have this louche rogue back.

Review: Amen Dunes' Death Jokes represents a departure from Damon McMahon's previous work, as he delves into electronic music while critiquing American culture's glorification of violence and coercion. Inspired by his experiences and the societal shifts of recent years, McMahon embraces new artistic avenues, incorporating piano and electronic elements into his music. The album's genesis traces back to McMahon's decision to become a beginner again, immersing himself in piano and electronic music. This newfound experimentation, coupled with a thematic shift towards critiquing societal norms, gives rise to an album that feels both raw and prophetic. Songs like 'Round the World' and 'I Don't Mind' seem to anticipate the pandemic's effects, offering haunting reflections on the world's uncertainties. McMahon's collaborations with musicians like Sam Wilkes, Christoffer Berg, and Kwake Bass add depth to the album's sonic landscape. Death Jokes is a collage of samples, incorporating voices, music, and sounds from various sources, including YouTube and historical recordings. Through these diverse elements, McMahon constructs a narrative that examines America's culture of violence and individualism. Yet amidst the darkness, there are glimpses of hope and forgiveness. Tracks like 'Mary Anne' and 'Purple Land' explore themes of innocence, forgiveness, and the passage of time. The album culminates in gospel-infused songs that mourn societal divisions while yearning for spiritual connection. In its entirety, Death Jokes serves as an essay on the complexities of life and society, offering both critique and introspection. Through his music, McMahon challenges listeners to confront uncomfortable truths while holding onto hope for a better future.