Thomas Smith

Black Pumas: “The world doesn’t stop for one achievement. Life keeps moving”

A hit viral song and multiple Grammy nominations have set the Austin, Texas band on a path to stardom. Frontman Eric Burton reflects on the journey and their new album which prioritises an honest performance than chasing clout

Boygenius – ‘The Rest’ EP: a magical coda to their mega year

Following the success of their huge debut album 'The Record', this four-track EP rounds out 2023 in fine style

Parcels on their club-tastic new live album: “I didn’t want to stop playing!”

The Berlin-based band’s ‘Live Vol.2’ sees them embrace bigger beats and up the pace in this nod to the city’s enviable electronic scene

Ed Sheeran – ‘Autumn Variations’ review: a pumpkin-spiced snoozer

Four months after the soul-baring ‘Subtract’, Ed Sheeran returns with a cloying, seasonal-themed endeavour

Jorja Smith – ‘Falling Or Flying’ review: R&B star finds a joyful, complex sound

On her second album – featuring dancefloor heater 'Little Things' – the Walsall-raised star finds her rhythm with an expanded sonic palette

The National – ‘Laugh Track’ review: a heavier companion record

The band follow up April’s ‘First Two Pages of Frankenstein’ with a surprise companion record that’s more immediate than its predecessor

Madison Beer – ‘Silence Between Songs’: a dabble with Tame Impala-indebted pop

Following decade in the spotlight, Beer channels ‘60s pop and her love of Lana Del Rey and Kevin Parker on this purposeful second album

Cala Mijas 2023: sun, sea and The Strokes on the Costa Del Sol

Gorgeous surroundings supplement Idles and Foals sets, while Florence Welch returns to the stage following “life-saving” surgery

Billie Eilish at Reading Festival: returning hero cements place as festival legend

Following a career-defining set four years prior, the US artist’s headline performance is a unique experience.

Central Cee at Reading Festival: future headliner potential… with some tweaks

The UK rapper is undeniably one of the draws of the weekend. There’s a solid building block here for the future.
Advertisement