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Review: With the combination of band name and album title this one's always going to be a bit of a tearjerker, packed with self-reflection and self-loathing. No regrets, though, as Greg Gonzalez muses on sensuality, the loss of those we care about, the loss of self to another and the endless yearning of the human heart. Shades of Lord Huron and a wealth of gloomy shoegazers can be felt, but even though "Cry" represents a next step for Cigarettes After Sex - edging into more minimalistic territories - it's still immediately identifiable as this band, and so won't fail to instantly resonate with avid fans. Packed with an exquisite, opiate balladry at once heartfelt and heartbroken, it's hard to tell whether this is exactly what you need to hear when living through your blue period or precisely what you shouldn't listen to. Either way, it's quiet impact is immense.

Review: The self-titled comeback LP from Reading based shoegaze pioneers Slowdive proved one of the most mercurial and delicate dream-pop projects of 2017, while owing testament to their singular, highly influential vision. While a follow up has been teased since 2020, lockdown delays as well as personal loss has hindered the work to the point of monolithic proportions. Promising a more introspective, minimal electronic based backdrop in order to process the passing of both vocalist/guitarist Rachel Goswell's mother and drummer Simon Scott's father, Everything Is Alive serves as a muted, nuanced return to form, from a collective of artists still driven by their passion, ability and endlessly attentive focus to their ethereal craft.