New Reviews for December 1, 2023

I/OEditor's choice
Real World Records
The art rocker returns with his first album of original material in 20 years: a probing collection filled with empathetic new beginnings.
- Stephen Thomas Erlewine
A Portrait of the Queen 1970-1974Editor's choice
BMG Rights Management
R&B
A sharply presented box containing expanded editions of the Queen of Soul's first five '70s studio albums.
- Andy Kellman
Violent Femmes [40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition]Editor's choice
Craft Recordings / Craft Records
The 40th anniversary edition of this groundbreaking alt-rock classic includes early demos and live recordings from concerts in 1981 and 1983.
- Fred Thomas
AlbionEditor's choice
Bella Union
A canny blend of folk-influenced songs with post-punk-informed arrangements on this album from former Midlake singer Tim Smith.
- Mark Deming
Salvage Enterprise
Good Records Recordings
Warm folk harmonies and uplifting emotions mark the psych pop group's eighth album.
- Matt Collar
2 Ruff, Vol. 1
Casablanca / EMI / EMI Records
A brief but potent mixtape of drum'n'bass dancefloor heaters, with featured guests including Flowdan, Stefflon Don, and Clementine Douglas.
- Paul Simpson
Never a Dull Moment! Live from Coast to Coast 1966-1967Editor's choice
Resonance
These unreleased live instrumental performances by Les McCann's early trios are a welcome, wonderful-sounding surprise.
- Thom Jurek
Czartificial Intelligence
Silver Age
Rap
The comic-themed rap supergroup continue their saga, mixing playful bravado with moments of nostalgic reflection.
- Paul Simpson
Frankie Rose and the Outs
AllMusic Staff Pick - December 4, 2023
September 21, 2010
After playing enhancing roles in Vivian Girls, Dum Dum Girls, and Crystal Stilts in the late 2000s, Frankie Rose's mostly solo debut was among the best of the cavernous reverb and shadowy pop indie scene of its time. It drew from the same C-86 and girl group influences, but with exceptional songwriting and the unexpected twist of occasional Cramps-styled demented swagger. An overlooked gem.
- Fred Thomas