It’s just you, Mat Sweet, and a set of beautiful yet heart-crushing songs on which every syllable can be heard; heard and felt. – By Gareth O’Malley

Not only have they made it to their third album, a feat many of their contemporaries couldn’t achieve, but they’ve delivered something that is leagues ahead of their previous output, both recognisable as Hawk Eyes and a clear evolution. Everything is Fine? That’s putting it mildly. By Gareth O’Malley

Xibalba have delivered on their early promise and made an album that’s as thrilling as it is heavy – and who knows, there may be even better to come. – By Gareth O’Malley

Every track makes its mark, and there are some stellar highs to be found throughout, so don’t be surprised if you’re going in for another listen as soon as it’s over. If you like death metal with plenty of replay value, this is the album for you. – By Gareth O’Malley

Gareth O’Malley celebrated his birthday by seeing Conan and Bast at Fibber Magees in Dublin.

The Scottish trio’s third album brings their immediate side to the fore, full of confident, catchy and purposeful songs. More hopeful but just as troubled as their previous efforts, it finds them taking a new approach to songwriting, and could be the record that comes to define them. By Gareth O’Malley

Those who persevere will be rewarded with an undeniably brilliant experience. Believe the hype: Pallbearer have once again created something to be cherished. By Cora O’Malley

They clearly don’t give a single, solitary fuck what anyone else thinks, and as a result, I doubt you’ll see a more fun record released this year. By Cora O’Malley

We Don’t Have Each Other makes for brutal listening at times, but its creator is on top form. Dan Campbell has scaled another peak. By Cora O’Malley

’68s debut album possesses a ramshackle charm that suggests they could be on to some great things if they tightened up a little. By Cora O’Malley

‘Artery’ is at the point where musical precision and undeniable beauty meet … Just as much a triumph as their debut, if not even more so. By Cora O’Malley

‘After 20 years, Spoon have rediscovered what it is to be who they are and do what they do. They may still want my soul, but finally, they have won my heart.’ – By Cora O’Malley

Lost in the Riots’ second album is staggering; if you consider yourself a fan of post-rock to any extent, you need this in your life. By Cora O’Malley

This isn’t a transitional record – it’s a rallying call, and they’re leaving no punches unpulled. – By Cora O’Malley

You Blew It! – poster boys for an ’emo revival’? With an album as good as this, it doesn’t matter. By Cora O’Malley

‘Halls In Hospitals’ is a frequently impressive debut from a band who can surely establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the UK post-rock scene. By Gareth O’Malley

On ‘PromisesPromises’, Kill Chaos prove that they know exactly what they’re doing. By Gareth O’Malley

With ‘Free Your Mind’, Cut Copy have cemented their position as one of the most reliable bands on the circuit. By Gareth O’Malley

‘Julia With Blue Jeans On’ is the best thing Spencer Krug’s ever been involved with. By Gareth O’Malley