Back catalogue: Pop

Review: Billie Eilish has been uncharacteristically secretive about her upcoming LP 'Hit Me Hard and Soft' despite the past whirlwind success of her career that has catapulted her into having heaps of Grammy awards - least of all the current reigning song of the year for the Barbie movie. In truth, all we know about this album is that it's her third, that (as with everything the singer has done) her brother and fellow artist FINNEAS is the executive producer and that the album has reportedly got ten tracks, no thanks in part to a leak by magazine Rolling Stone that drew the public ire of Eilish. Part of the rollout was Eillish's public condemnation of the out-of-control music industry practice of excessive vinyl variants, which has resulted in her offering eco-only discs - though of course she will be releasing multiple variants herself, her point still stands. It's a rare opportunity to get on board with an album without the raging industry tactics behind it, just an album dropped all at once on the day - as it should be, we'd venture.

Review: Contemporary pop starlet Billie Eilish's third studio album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT is her most daring work yet. It's a diverse yet cohesive collection of songs that work well as a listening whole from front to back, and they all live up to the album name as they deliver both hard and soft hits lyrically and sonically while bending genres and defying trends at the same time. With the help of her brother and collaborator, FINNEAS, they wrote, recorded, and produced the album in their Los Angeles hometown. Following her hugely successful first two albums WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? and Happier Than Ever, this is another great expansion of Billie Eilish's artistic universe.

Review: Iconic movie classic Beetlejuice is back and we for one have enjoyed its return. Tim Burton's 1988 cult classic has been reimagined for modern audiences in 2014 and came complete with a new soundtrack. The original score, composed by the legendary Danny Elfman, blends whimsical melodies with eerie undertones, perfectly capturing the film's quirky and haunting vibe. Highlights of the original include Elfman's iconic main titles, which have become synonymous with Burton's gothic style. The new soundtrack also features standout tracks like Alfie Davis & The Sylvia Young Theatre School Choir's rendition of 'Day-O' and Richard Marx's "Right Here Waiting," adding fresh dimensions to this timeless, offbeat classic.

Review: Cass Elliot, released in 1972, marked a significant moment in the career of the iconic vocalist, formerly of The Mamas & The Papas. Shedding her Mama Cass alias, Elliot embraced her real name for the first time on this album, which exudes the nostalgic glamour of 1930s Hollywood. Featuring songs by talented songwriters like Judee Sill, Bobby Darin and Bruce Johnston of the Beach Boys, the album showcases Elliot's unparalleled vocal strength. Each track shows her ability to captivate listeners with her emotive delivery and soulful interpretation. This limited edition reissue on silver-colored vinyl, housed in a gatefold sleeve, is a fitting tribute to Elliot's enduring legacy. With only 1000 individually numbered copies available, it's a must-have for fans and collectors alike, allowing them to experience Elliot's timeless talent in a new light.

Review: Empire of the Sun's Two Vines envisions a city reclaimed by nature, blending lush, tropical imagery with their signature electro-glam pop sound. Recorded in Hawaii and Los Angeles, the album features contributions from notable artists such as David Bowie's Blackstar band members and Fleetwood Mac's Lindsey Buckingham. The album opens with the serene 'Before' and the enchanting 'ZZZ,' showcasing Luke Steele's ethereal falsetto and the band's seamless fusion of beats and melodies. Tracks like 'High and Low' and 'Friends' feature catchy EDM choruses, while the title track, 'Two Vines,' stands out with its acoustic sound and prominent vocals. Two Vines is another arrow in Empire of the Sun's artistic vision, combining futuristic themes with natural beauty. This reissue on beautiful green vinyl matches the awesome artwork to the tee.

Review: Empire Of The Sun is set to mark a new chapter with their fourth album, Ask That God. This album signifies a significant evolution, embracing an infectious new sound while maintaining their roots. Following the recent single 'Changes,' the band has released 'Music On The Radio,' a breezy indietronica track that encapsulates their signature blissful electronica. Luke Steele's shimmering vocals blend seamlessly with a throbbing, elastic beat, creating catchy effect. Steele describes the song as a teenage rebellion against imaginary emotions, driven by Nick Littlemore's unique lyrical touch. The hypnotic groove of the bass is irresistible, showing the duo's talent for melodies and hooks. Ask That God represents a profound shift for the band, reflecting their journey and growth. This album promises to be a transcendent experience for fans, reaffirming Empire Of The Sun's innovative spirit.

Review: Empire of the Sun's Ice on the Dune is a dazzling follow-up that solidifies the duo's place in the electro-pop pantheon. With a title that perfectly encapsulates the album's blend of glacial synths and summery pop, this record is a shimmering spectacle from start to finish. Frontman Luke Steele and bandmate Nick Littlemore have refined their sound, delivering leaner, more club-ready tracks while retaining the infectious energy that defined their debut. Songs like 'DNA' and 'Alive' showcase the duo's ability to craft irresistible hooks and dynamic arrangements, with 'Alive' standing out as a life-affirming electro-fuzz anthem. The juxtaposition of breezy acoustic strumming and throbbing synths on 'DNA' echoes the best moments of their previous hits. 'Concert Pitch' is another highlight, offering punchy disco pulses and a wistfully breathy chorus. Slower tracks like 'I'll Be Around' provide a warm, sensual counterpoint, demonstrating Steele's delicate vocal prowess. The album closes with the epic 'Keep a Watch,' blending poised piano balladry with grandiose flourishes, perfectly embodying the duo's larger-than-life personas. With Ice on the Dune, Empire of the Sun delivers a vibrant and cohesive album, cementing their status as one of the most exciting electro-pop acts of all time.

Review: In 2011, Erasure teamed up with Frankmusik, known for his lush production work with artists like Lady Gaga and Pet Shop Boys, and mixer Rob Orton, who's collaborated with Lana Del Rey and Charli XCX. The result is an electro-pop gem recorded across Maine, London, and Los Angeles, with Clarke's collection of analogue synths bringing a nostalgic warmth. The album's sound marries Erasure's timeless songwriting with intricate, polished production, creating a radiant, uplifting experience. Decades into their career, Erasure remain one of the UK's most cherished pop duos, blending warmth and optimism in every note.