Re-read - Повсякденність, драма, романтика

B Tier

Re-read’s debut LP is an ethereal blend of Midwest Emo and Dream Pop. This gem comes from Ukraine’s budding Emo scene. The lush soundscapes that compose the harmonies are punctuated by spirited mathy guitar riffs, though the dreamy dual vocals add more to harmony than melody. The songs are well composed and the individual performances are all technically excellent, but I don't quite sense their spirit in this music. Perhaps there is a language barrier, but one of the songs is written in a universal human tongue (cat noises. I don't want to explain…).

Balance and Composure - with you in spirit

B- Tier

Soft Grunge stalwarts Balance and Composure released their first major record in eight years this year and boy did they milk the anticipation for months. That said, the band returns with their signature dreamy songwriting and production, along with some lush soundscapes. The vocals are melodic and ethereal, though perhaps overly-processed. B&C fans will have a lot to like on here, but it probably won't convert non-fans. I'd also recommend giving this a shot if you know nothing about the group.

Microwave - Let's Start Degeneracy

C+ Tier

Although Microwave has always had a penchant for mixing Emo with Alternative, they’ve tipped the scales away from Emo in recent times. Regardless, Let's Start Degeneracy is a relatively chill album that has all the sad vibes, but it's heavily saturated with somewhat bland poppiness outside of the true gems on this album. Despite the unevenness of the tracks, this album is worth a listen if just for style points alone.