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Benjamin Kassel
Mar 3, 20223 min read
"Wild" is yet another success from Spoon
The ever-excellent band combine classic rock influences with their modern indie sound on a recent single.
Benjamin Kassel
Feb 6, 20224 min read
"Take Me Out" and the art of the slowdown
It's hard to pull off an energetic downward tempo shift, but that's exactly what Franz Ferdinand did, and I love it.
Benjamin Kassel
Feb 1, 20223 min read
I felt down, but "KEEP IT UP" helped me be a bit more positive
Rex Orange County's new release is a simple indie pop slice that speaks to the drive one gets from valuing themself and their endeavors.
Benjamin Kassel
Jan 18, 20223 min read
"Sweet Disposition" and the innocence of young love
The Temper Trap's indie anthem soundtracks a nostalgia-driven afternoon walk in the aftermath of classes restarting.
Benjamin Kassel
Jan 8, 20224 min read
"Crystalised" presents the inner monologues that persist in relationships
The xx's debut single explores the fragility of love through two partners' ever-present individual thoughts.
Benjamin Kassel
Dec 30, 20214 min read
"Kids" makes us think back to simpler times... with heavy consequences
MGMT's tribute to youth is far from rose-colored, reminding us of just how much we impact the world from the day we're thrown into it.
Benjamin Kassel
Dec 4, 20213 min read
On the calm disco-like indie pop of "Sit Next to Me"
...and the marching band rendition of the track I heard tonight.
Benjamin Kassel
Nov 28, 20214 min read
On "Losing My Religion," obsession, and self-reflection
R.E.M. portray a man whose hindsight reminds him of painful mistakes in love and trust.
Benjamin Kassel
Nov 20, 20213 min read
"Someone To You" and the effects of the simple desire to be loved
BANNERS displays the longing for a feeling he may not really know... but the way he does it is compelling.
Benjamin Kassel
Nov 5, 20214 min read
"Valentine" excels as an album opener
Snail Mail's superb second record begins with a tone-setting build-up and bang.
Benjamin Kassel
Oct 11, 20214 min read
"Hard to Beat" lives up to its name
It's a shame most Americans don't know this dance-inducing indie/garage gem.
Benjamin Kassel
Sep 5, 20215 min read
The "Dog Days Are Over," and good times are ahead... right?
Florence + the Machine believe so, but their protagonist is far from convinced.
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