USA/Mexico – Matamoros

The press release for USA/Mexico’s second album, Matamoros, features the words “once you’re comfortably settled in…” which I have to say is an odd turn of phrase, considering this is a turbulent and disturbing slab of vomit-inducing horror.

Sofy Major – Total Dump

It’s great when a band doesn’t take themselves seriously. France’s Sofy Major don’t really fit into the noise rock template – they’re more likely to flush it down the toilet than conform, which is refreshingly brilliant.

Ils – Pain Don’t Hurt

Ils (pronounced “ilz”) are a four piece from Portland, signed to French label Pogo Records and Pain Don’t Hurt is their first EP and it’s an ugly and disturbing racket. 

Ampwrecked 16: New Music For Your Ears

Happy New Year! We’ve been on holiday. Here’s some new music for you to absorb from Snapped Ankles, Heavy Lungs, USA/Mexico, The St. Pierre Snake Invasion and Tiny Moving Parts.

Remote Viewing – Blood Loss

Remote Viewing’s sound is not a million miles away from the racket Palehorse created – there’s less low-end, as two guitars exist instead of the dual-bass attack.

The Turin Horse – S/T

Who the fuck are The Turin Horse you ask? Two dudes from Italy called s Enrico Tauraso (vox, guitar, samples) and Alain Lapaglia (drums) both of whom were in separate bands (Dead Elephant and Morkobot) but decided to sack that off, teamed up, moved to Turin and created this noise-pollution of a duo.

Tiny Moving Parts – Swell

Tiny Moving Parts couldn’t have picked a better title for this collection of songs really. These 10 tracks on Swell are fit to burst with impassioned beauty, melancholy, tales of loss and re-connection; from their erratic time changes to the heady blasts of breakneck punk rock and contemplative, brooding lyrical couplets.

Lizard Hips – Top 10 albums of 2017

My top 2 will not surprise some people and it’s mostly business as usual. Some returning bands and truly outstanding work all round from nearly everyone that’s released an album this year that I’ve enjoyed. Even albums that didn’t make the top ten (sorry Pissed Jeans, you’re in at 11…) were stonking great. Enjoy.