Rock or Bust is the first album in six years for the Australian rockers and, as it was the case in 2000 with Stiff Upper Lip, they still manage to give us a surprise. Although their style has not changed in 35 years, since the arrival of Brian Johnson at the microphone, they still offer us good energetic compositions. This is certainly a rock 'n' roll sound from another era, but there is only AC/DC that can play it effectively in 2015. The recording of Rock or Bust was not easy when we learned Malcolm Young had a disease causing him to bow out (he suffers from dementia). Angus was left with all the responsibility of the band on his frail shoulders. He did pretty well, even if this is the shortest album of the band from the 15 they had released to date (with 11 tracks totaling 35 minutes). Drummer Phil Rudd also had his problems, with the law this time, and had to leave the band before the release of the album. Despite the pitfalls and many rumors of separation, AC/DC have one of their best albums in a long time. So if it is their last record, the guys can be proud of it. (February 2015)

Music Videos: « Rock or Bust » - « Play Ball »

The Scottish band that has existed for over 35 years has mostly been successful in the first half of the 1980s. Thereafter, they could not succeed in presenting some really interesting albums, up to Graffiti Soul in 2009 which featured good times. With Big Music, the band managed to fully get along with the electro pop style of the years 2010 and certainly presents its best album in nearly 30 years. The balance between the somewhat old synthesizers, sharp guitars and powerful rhythm is better than ever. In a burst of inspiration, the group has several very good compositions including "Honest Town" and "Blood Diamonds" both co-written with Iain Cook (Chrvrches). It has taken time, but now Simple Minds seems to have found its way and took its rightful place alongside younger bands that were inspired by them. (February 2015)

Music Videos: « Honest Town » - « Let the Day Begin »

It only remains of the Smashing Pumpkins Billy Corgan and his guitarist Jeff Schroeder, which confirms more than ever the total control exercised by Corgan, even if he still puts forward the name of the band. For this new album, it's Tommy Lee (Mötley Crüe) who is supporting the duo on drums, but you'll never realize it. Musically, Monuments to an Elegy seems like a solo album by Billy Corgan, who gets textures similar to some on The Future Embrace, his only solo album issued in 2005. One of the main differences of the album from the last recordings of the Pumpkins is the intensity that is a little diminished. The songs are generally lighter, less aggressive. This is perhaps ultimately the album of maturity for Corgan who did not seem before to be able to get far from the abrasive style that made him popular more than 20 years ago. We can find many good songs on this new album for which the main weakness is being too short with only 9 tracks totaling 32 minutes. So we will have to listen to it repeatedly... (February 2015)

Music Video: « Being Beige »

After participating to the remarkable hit "I Love It" by Icona Pop and the release of her very good first album in the spring of 2013, True Romance, the electro pop singer is back in force. She put together many should-be hits on Sucker, even if she does not retain any coarse language, especially in the title track. The uncensored version of the album is probably better to not hear beeps instead of swearing which is certainly less annoying. The whole album is a bit brighter and accessible than her previous one, as if she was determined to reach a wide audience. She certainly tries to join a young audience with a pop sound that speaks to them, but she also has some more personal lyrics. She certainly sings several essential and memorable hits like "Break the Rules" and "Boom Clap". Here is a particularly successful second record for the talented English songwriter and singer. (February 2015)

Music Videos: « Boom Clap » - « Break the Rules » - « Breaking Up » - « Doing It »

New York rapper Steven Markowitz (aka Hoodie Allen) first became a star on the Internet. He now issues his first album, People Keep Talking. He offers a very good blend of rap and pop music fairly accessible and pleasant to listen to. His main problem is mainly his juvenile lyrics, often a bit too easy and insignificant. On several occasions it seems we listen to a rap version of a boy band. At least, Allen can count on quality production, in addition to the participation of talented collaborators in Ed Sheeran, Max and Alex Wiley. (January 2015)

Close Talker is an indie rock band from Saskatoon which comes to us with a first full-length album. With their catchy melodies and vocal harmonies, they can be compared in part to Bon Iver and the Bombay Bicycle Club. Flux was recorded at the Breakglass Studio in Montreal in the spring of 2014 while the hockey club of the Montreal Canadiens had turned the city to the fever of the playoffs. This unique energy has undoubtedly inspired the band that gives us a first record of high efficiency. (January 2015)

Ably led by female singer Maria Brink, the melodic metal band from Los Angeles is back with their fifth album. Again produced by Kevin Churko (Ozzy Osbourne, Hellyeah, Five Finger Death Punch), the album again shows a strong melodic side highlighted by the powerful voice of Brink who manages to fall into raw emotion on several occasions. In addition, the band does not hesitate to present frankly hardcore or Gothic songs, somewhat in the manner of Lacuna Coil. Despite many good times, with 13 tracks totalling 60 minutes the album is a bit too long because of some pieces that could have been cut without any problems. (January 2015)

Music Videos: « Sick Like Me » - « Big Bad Wolf »

The young singer from New Brunswick has had an unexpected success in 2012 with her first album, mainly thanks to the now French Canadian classic "Aujourd’hui, ma vie c’est d’la marde" (Today, my life is shit). Two years later, she is back with an EP, entirely in English this time, inspired by a road trip to the United States. There are 5 original songs and the cover of "Katie Cruel" popularized by Karen Dalton. Lisa is more creative than ever in her trash folk style, which can be really hard at times, especially in "Gold Diggin' Hoedown". With less than 18 minutes, the main problem with the record is that it is too short. We look forward for an upcoming full-length album from this creative artist. (January 2015)

Strangely, it is on his eighth album that Chad Kroeger is the most adventurous when he departs from the powerful riffs without much creativity that made his reputation. He adds interesting electronic elements and loop rhythms, sometimes paired with country rock influences. Disco is not far away on tracks like "She Keeps Me Up" and "Get 'Em Up" and humor is often present throughout the record. When sarcasm gives way to more political songs like the first single, "Edge of a Revolution", we believe in it a little less, but we still appreciate the effort. We certainly cannot accuse Nickelback’s attempt to move away from its rather outdated post-grunge style. Instead, the band seems to look at the future with No Fixed Address. It remains to be seen whether the public will follow, but it is a good album overall. (January 2015)

Music Video: « Edge of a Revolution »

The popular young London band is back with a fourth album in as many years. One Direction pursues the same path than on their previous records without big surprises. Although the five colleagues remain effective to interpret ballads, it’s the most energetic and entertaining songs that really stand out on Four. Their admiration for the music of the 1980s cannot be denied on several occasions, although their music is much current. With Four, we realize that One Direction should focus on the joyous and catchy songs, since emotion is not always effective in the songs that should be touching. (January 2015)

Twenty years have gone since their last album and a few fans still believed that their favorite band could make a comeback on record. The album consists essentially of instrumentals recorded at the time of Division Bell and originally planned for an atmospheric project. These pieces have been reworked by the only two remaining members, David Gilmour and Nick Mason, with the help of Youth, Andy Jackson and Phil Manzanera (Roxy Music). The latest added a layer of guitars to the music based mainly on the keyboards of the late Richard Wright. The result is not sounding so different from what the band offered on its last two albums, except for the fact that it is instrumental at 95%. It is not until the last piece, "Louder Than Words", that we finally hear the voice of Gilmour that was at the heart of the last recordings of the band. He rather makes his guitar talk on The Endless River. Listening to the album, you realize that the band seems to want to permanently close the books and move on. This new album is interesting, but it is mostly like the end of a superb career spanning nearly 50 years. (January 2015)

The Irish singer is back with the third album of his career after a break of eight years. Despite this long waiting period, Rice presents an album of only 8 tracks totaling 50 minutes. He requested the services of producer Rick Rubin to help create unique atmospheres around his pop, folk and alternative rock songs. My Favourite Faded Fantasy is an album that we learn to discover and that slowly becomes more and more interesting and intriguing. Textures and arrangements are sublime, worthy of the perfectionist who is Damien Rice. This is another very good album by this unique artist. (January 2015)

At the last edition of The Voice (French Quebec version), Tamara got attention with her great artistic sensitivity and her unique voice. She releases a first album entirely in English, which can make room for her creativity. The native of Port-au-Prince in Haiti who grew up in Saint-Georges-de-Beauce, Quebec offers us a collection of 12 beautiful folk songs with memorable melodies and beautiful vocal harmonies. The shy songwriter and performer opens like a flower on this album of very high quality. (January 2015)

After a busy year in 2014, both professionally and personally, Neil Young presents nothing less than a double album. In fact, the 2 CDs contain the same 10 songs, but one was recorded with a large orchestra, while the other is played solo. With the orchestra, Young goes in several directions that can be very energetic and at times more intimate, creating a dichotomy on the CD. Otherwise, when he is in solo, we rediscover the folk singer of the best years. It is only a pity that the album is uneven in general. (January 2015)

For his new album, the harmonica player from Quebec City returns to his first love, blues, even if it incorporates influences of gospel, country and rock. For the record, Bélanger traveled from Montreal to Chicago via Toronto. He has worked with some of the best musicians in Chicago, in addition to have singer and guitarist Jimmy Johnson as a special guest. With Blues Turn, Quebec bluesman demonstrates that he has nothing to prove and he is one of the greatest instrumentalists and composers in the genre in the country. (December 2014)

For this new album, Quebec violinist Philippe Dunnigan has requested the services of several composers and arrangers of great talent. He therefore presents a contemporary classical album on which we also find some jazz overtones. These composers include François Dompierre, Catherine Major, Benoît Groulx, Marc Bélanger and Jean-François Groulx. You can also hear arrangements of pieces of Antonio Carlos Jobim ("Luiza") and Sting ("August Winds"). Note that to record this album, Dunnigan used a Stradivarius Auer 1691. There You Are is definitely a very pleasant album to listen to. (December 2014)

Echosmith is a Los Angeles band formed in 2009 by the Sierota brothers and their younger sister Sydney as singer. Talking Dreams is their first album, first released in the fall of 2013 and now reissued with a new front cover. The quartet offers us an energetic pop rock sound strongly influenced by the dance rock of the 1980s. In this sense, one can compare them largely to the Killers and Paramore, but also to U2 for their guitar sounds and Fleetwood Mac for their vocal harmonies. The young band has a certain lightness, but has above all unforgettable melodies. So you can bet that with more experience they can offer us music with a little more substance while remaining as pleasant as it is. (December 2014)

Music Videos: « Come Together » - « Talking Dreams » - « Cool Kids »

It's with all the creativity we know from them that the guys of the Flaming Lips have decided to revisit the best album in history, The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. If the original album already had his psychedelic side, it takes on another dimension here with the experiments of the Flaming Lips. The group is exploring different sounds and is mixing all kinds of variations of styles and beats in a sometimes cacophonous ensemble, but certainly creative. The band is accompanied by many guest artists: My Morning Jacket, J. Mascis, Miley Cyrus, Moby, Dr. Dog, Tegan and Sara, Foxygen and many others. With a Little Help From My Fwends presents a kind of deconstruction of this great album in history. The most ardent fans of the Beatles will perhaps think it is a blasphemous exercise. Otherwise, the quality of the musical explorations by the Flaming Lips gives pretty much justice to the original work. (December 2014)

It’s hard to believe that almost 20 years have gone since the formation of the Foo Fighters. Yet Sonic Highways is already their 8th studio album since 1995. The album takes inspiration from the Sound City studio in Los Angeles and the greatest rock 'n' roll cities in America. They paid tribute to real arena rock 'n' roll, which swarmed in the 1980s. Even if the record includes only 8 songs, all of them are highly effective in remembering the good old days of hard rock of the 1970s and 1980s. In fact, it is a pure rock album, as it is less done today. It's just a shame that at each song we have the feeling of having already heard it in the past. In conclusion, Sonic Highways gives us the desire to go listen to albums from our childhood instead of repeating it in loops. It is not unpleasant, but it definitely lacks creativity. (December 2014)

Music Video: « Something From Nothing »

The Parisian DJ is back with a new album full of famous people. Among others Sam Martin, Emeli Sandé, Nico & Vinz, John Legend, Sia, Nicki Minaj, Afrojack, Magic! and Birdy. Guetta signed the 14 compositions on the record, even if he was helped greatly. Oddly, at a time when electronic dance music is popular, the one who was one of the firsts to take the opportunity to become a superstar turns a little more towards pop music in its conventional format. We can still hear a majority of danceable tracks, but they do not seem to come from a DJ. In fact, Guetta fades somewhat on this album to let the whole room to his collaborators who bring their own color to the CD. Regardless, it's not a bad thing, but it's a little disjointed and it lacks the personality of its creator. Otherwise, do not get me wrong, Listen once again includes a list of guaranteed hits. (December 2014)

Music Videos: « Lovers on the Sun » - « Dangerous »

The rocker from London issues his first album in nine years, only his second since Cyberpunk in 1993. This new album actually wants to be a companion to his autobiography. Otherwise, the songs of Kings & Queens of the Underground have nothing autobiographical. We obviously find traces of his past sound with some punk influences, but so integrated in the big pop machine it doesn’t remain authentic anymore. Idol still presents songs with electro arrangements, after having explored the genre a long time ago already. The main difference in this new album compared to the previous one is that the singer seems much calmer, more serene. He sings better than ever, even though it is easily suspect that there was substantial assistance by technology. After all, the enfant terrible is already approaching sixty years old. In conclusion, the main problem with this new CD by Billy Idol is an obvious lack of creativity. It is pleasant to listen to, but not for too long and above all, you retain very few things from it. "Postcards from the Past" and "Can’t Break Me Down" are certainly among the good ones on the CD, but not by their creativity. Rather because they remind us of what we liked about Billy Idol in the 1980s, which is unforgettable energetic rock songs. (December 2014)

Music Video: « Can’t Break Me Down »

James Farm is a contemporary jazz quartet formed of Joshua Redman (saxophone), Aaron Parks (piano), Matt Penman (bass) and Eric Harland (drums). Formed in 2009, the quartet now releases its second album. The CD of 10 tracks totaling 64 minutes is still in a frankly creative jazz style. Again, Redman, Parks and Penman contribute of three compositions each, while Harland signs one. Otherwise, in their interpretation, the four musicians unite in a particularly coherent ensemble, still accessible despite its complexity. A very good record of modern jazz! (December 2014)

Formed in 1996 by Montreal musician born in Jamaica Carol Bernard, the Jireh Gospel Choir is one of the best known vocal ensembles in Canada. They interpret great classics from the gospel repertoire but also original songs inspired in part by R&B, soul, jazz and blues. In 2012, the group was awarded the prestigious "The Gospel Song of the Year" by the Gospel Music Association of Canada for its composition "Quoi qu’il arrive". Get Up is the third album for the band, and it includes 18 singers and 20 musicians. It has 13 songs including 3 in French and 11 originals. This is a good record of contemporary gospel. (December 2014)

The female singer from Calgary has become famous in recent months thanks to the hit "Hideaway" inspired by the 1990s. It is one of the few songs tending to house music on this first album that goes in all possible directions of pop music. One can even hear soft piano ballads which fortunately showcase her beautiful voice. Note her rather slow cover of "What Is Love?" by Haddaway, one of the biggest dance hits of the 1990s. We understand quickly that Kiesza influences come from the decade that has rocked her childhood. Otherwise, there is a dangerous lack of guideline on Sound of a Woman which goes too much in different directions, with in addition some frankly uninteresting tracks. This first record by Kiesza is unfortunately an album to listen by pieces. (December 2014)

Music Videos: « Hideaway » - « Giant in my Heart » - « No Enemiesz »

Knife Party is a side project for two members of the Australian band Pendulum, Gareth McGrillen and Rob Swire. The duo issues its first full-length album of house music and dubstep full of energy. The group also explores funkier moments like on "EDM Trend Machine" (which has nothing of EDM strangely). Pendulum fans may appreciate a lot, even if rock is completely ignored here. A track like "Resistance", based on the bass, will certainly get their attention. And for "Give It Up" it is rather lovers of Fatboy Slim that may be seduced. Knife Party has a very good album in the genre. (December 2014)

Music Video: « Begin Again »

As the title of her new album says, Annie Lennox puts on nostalgia for us to embark into her world. She revisits indeed great jazz, pop and R&B standards. Although she remains a pop singer with an incomparable voice, she seems quite comfortable in a jazzy atmosphere, and for several years now. Whether interpreting in her own way "Georgia On My Mind", "I Put a Spell On You", "Summertime" and "Strange Fruit", she always manages to bring out the best of each song, offered all smoothly. In addition, she enjoys a leading production. With Nostalgia, Annie Lennox managed the feat to make us rediscover and appreciate classics often heard in all kinds of versions. (December 2014)

Compared for a long time to Fleetwood Mac, contemporary country band Little Big Town has managed to differentiate itself with the Tornado album in 2012. With Pain Killer, the band really takes off. The album has a greater than life production, but there is also risk taking when they leave their usual comfort and they dare to try new sounds. We can hear distorted guitars, electronic elements, a little bit of reggae and folk rock for three songs in conclusion of the CD. High quality compositions quickly become contagious and so it is quite easy to appreciate this new album. Pain Killer is definitely the best album by Little Big Town to date. (December 2014)

Music Video: « Day Drinking »

Canadian rock band Moist was formed in Vancouver in 1992 and took advantage of the post-grunge wave to develop a horde of fans. After several years of separation during which singer David Usher has managed to get a nice solo career, the band is back to release a new album, its fourth. For this record, we can see many new faces: Jonathan Gallivan on guitar, Louis Lalancette on bass and Francis Fillion on drums. Produced by guitarist Mark Makoway, Glory Under Dangerous Skies follows the same path the group had left 15 years ago with a rather common rock sound, with no big surprises. (December 2014)

The Toronto jazz singer tending to swing certainly had a need for renewal with this new album. She went to a studio in New Orleans, with a new producer and new musicians to record nine classics in the genre and a new original composition, "It's Never Enough". It’s Andrew "Goat" Gilchrist (from Canadian origin), which ensures the production of this totally acoustic album in the tradition of New Orleans. Louis Armstrong's ghost was probably floating not too far in this so inspiring context. Alex Pangman still manages to immerse us in an atmosphere of almost a century ago while jazz got acclaimed. (December 2014)

This is the first trio album in 13 years for Parisian pianist Baptiste Trotignon. HIT is based on the idea of percussion, among others inspired by drummer and percussionist Jeff Ballard. The 11 compositions by Trotignon sometimes borrow to pop music, sometimes to Latin music, and sometimes to other world music. Otherwise, they are still in perfect symbiosis with the contemporary jazz trio context. (December 2014)

For his twelfth studio album and first since 2008, the Canadian songwriter and performer has decided to make himself a gift and cover classics of his youth and who influenced him. After spending considerable time in the studio, he was able to give the desired sound for each of the selected songs so that they are not too similar to the original version. You can hear The Beatles’ "Any Time At All", Bob Dylan’s "Lay Lady Lay", Chuck Berry’s "Rock and Roll Music", CCR’s "Down on the Corner", The Beach Boys’ "God Only Knows", and several others. Adams also offers a new original song, "She Knows Me". Performances are very well done on this album that manages to make us forget most of the original versions. It is the performer who is featured on this new record by Bryan Adams. A deluxe version adds an additional 5 tracks to the 11 of the standard version. (November 2014)

After excellent albums in French in addition to having arranged and produced many albums of high quality, Antoine Gratton comes to us with his alter ego, A*Star, for his first album entirely in English. The singer and pianist of great talent presents an album living up to the expectations with 14 very good compositions in the pop rock energetic style. After a softer end, A*Star is My Name goes to a second CD of acoustic versions while Antoine finds himself in the company of Orpheus Quartet. He reinterprets the catchiest songs of the first CD in a much more intimate and touching style. We therefore find the two main facets of the personality of Antoine Gratton, a man of a thousand faces that will certainly have fun on stage, regardless of the formula used. (November 2014)

At first glance, the duo formed of crooner Tony Bennett and pop diva Lady Gaga may seem odd, but they have worked together in 2011. Also, Lady Gaga has a history of cabaret singer. It is therefore quite appropriate to hear the duo sing these jazz standards with a full orchestra. With songs of Cole Porter, Irving Berlin (including the title track), Duke Ellington, and many others, we discover how Bennett has lost none of his vocal capacities despite his 88 years of age. As for Lady Gaga, one quickly realizes that her voice beautifully frames in such a jazz context. Otherwise, she seems uncertain of her abilities on some occasions, which removes the power and luster to her interpretation. The main drawback of the album is that you cannot get rid of the personality of the duo and the songs are automatically in the background. Much better interpretations of these classics have been recorded over the years, unfortunately. (November 2014)

Dan Snaith already issues his sixth album under the pseudonym of Caribou. The electro artist again offers us a very good indie pop album with relaxing atmospheres. Otherwise, his music is more than ever moving towards the dance floors where DJs will take pleasure in remixing it. With a little more arrangements, the infectious beats possess all the necessary characteristics to satisfy fans of house music. But, his approach still remains quite psychedelic despite good pop melodies, which is most likely to appeal to fans of indie music. His love of 1980’s percussions and synthesizers is difficult to hide for Caribou who always seems immersed between two eras. The compositions are certainly of high quality, but Our Love cannot compete with the excellent Andorra released in 2007. (November 2014)

The Montrealer celebrates his 80 years with a new album, which is perfectly in line with Old Ideas issued two years ago. While respecting the folk tradition that he developed himself in the 1960s, he managed to go a little further with the integration of blues, gospel and even country ("Did I Ever Love You") influences. The album is totally dominated by piano, also with a good presence of female voices to contrast with his baritone voice that is lower than ever. Most of the nine compositions are surprisingly creative in a genre that might seem overused, especially in these years of the corporate resurrection of folk. It is therefore necessary to face the fact that among all the talented and ambitious new generation, there are old timers like Cohen who continue to dominate. (November 2014)

On this 12th album, Melissa Etheridge is accompanied by many collaborators to offer a variety of styles, sometimes quite far from what she used to. Among others, we can find many R&B specialists including Roccstar, Jon Levine and Jerry Wonder. There are also more logical choices as the author Jerrod Bettis who worked with Adele and Gavin DeGraw. More pop and energetic than most of her previous albums, This is M.E. is likely to be very pleasant to play in concert for the singer so she can really have fun. It is only a pity that the various explorations are not always successful and they do not all go well together. In addition, fans of roots music may remain unsatisfied. (November 2014)

After the very effective I Remember Me three years ago, the R&B female singer from Chicago is back with a third album that pursues the same path. It contains some outdated elements recalling disco and pop of the early 1980s. Pharrell Williams compositions are particularly successful, especially the first single, "I Can’t Describe" (with T.I.). There is also a very good song from R. Kelly, "It's Your World". Other contributors to the album include Timbaland and Iggy Azalea. This is a fairly strong album that offers us Jennifer Hudson, an album that will make you move while revealing the beautiful voice of the singer. (November 2014)

Music Videos: « I Can’t Describe » - « Walk It Out »

The Danish experimental alternative rock band releases a third album on which they leave aside their hardcore style. They integrate indeed acoustic instruments leaving a lot more room to breathe. Folk and blues influences are obvious, but the monotone voice of singer Elias Bender Rønnenfelt can become quite annoying in the long term. Experimentation remains well present with overlays beats not far from cacophony on several occasions. It is therefore once again a creative album for Iceage, but so difficult to appreciate at the first listenings that it can become discouraging to want to join so much. In addition, is it possible to please their fans with this less punk new direction? Not sure. (November 2014)

For his tenth album, Lenny Kravitz leaves out any sociopolitical messages like he had on Black and White America.. By the title of the album and the first song simply titled "Sex," we understand that the New Yorker has every intention to indulge in the pleasures of the flesh. He has good catchy tracks, everything you need to groove happily. These infectious beats often stretch over several minutes for an album of 12 songs totalling 53 minutes. The efficiency of the record, unpretentious, makes it quite exciting like it is not necessarily when he deals with serious subjects that he is at his best. Some ballads somewhat lack interest, such as the cover of Smokey Robinson’s "Ooo Baby Baby". But the whole is still very interesting and allows the addition of an important piece to his repertoire. (November 2014)

Music Video: « The Chamber »

Matt Laurent is a songwriter and singer of talent who played for several years, but he is also known as a producer and arranger, as well as having written several hits for other artists. His most recent project, Lucky Uke, allowed him to reach a new audience with his ukulele covers of successful hard rock songs of the 1980s like "Cum On Feel the Noize" and "We're Not Gonna Take It". On this self-titled fourth solo album, Laurent offers a majority of lyrics in English except for a pair of songs in French including the first single, "On va s’parler d’amour". It features two duets: "Until You Go (Un jour d’été)" with France D'Amour and the excellent "Please, Please Stay" with Colbie Caillat. One can also hear his sweet version of The Beatles’ "Drive My Car". What is immediately impressive with this new album, it's the incredibly effective melodies that come to mind quickly. Few weak moments are found among the 11 tracks on the album which are linked together very nicely. Here is an excellent album by Matt Laurent. (November 2014)

Nico Sereba and Vincent Dery are a duo from Oslo, Norway and they started working together in 2012 under the name of Envy. After changing their name in 2013, they now release their first album as Nico & Vinz. They play R&B with a strong pop tendency and include to their repertoire some poignant ballads despite a generally rhythmic music. In fact, their approach is much more of an afro-beat pop sound than Scandinavian music. They can be compared in part to Bruno Mars, but some can also make a parallel with Sting on some occasions. The main problem is that they are too easily comparable to other artists of the genre, demonstrating a lack of personality. The result: despite a sound that pleases at start, you get tired quickly when you start to get lost in the game of comparisons. In addition, with 21 tracks totaling nearly 60 minutes, the album only gives you little chance to wait until the end. (November 2014)

Two albums are simultaneously presented by Prince when in addition to his solo album Art Official Age, he also releases a record along with the female trio 3rdEyeGirl, PlectrumElectrum. For Art Official Age, Prince does not hesitate to return to a 1980’s funky sound to add to his R&B and electronic music that is still contemporary. The dance tracks are numerous and it also includes some rap verses. In fact, Prince once again presents what he does best with a mixture of everything that inspires him. Unfortunately, despite good creativity in general, several songs have a lack of interest which helps to jump over tracks on numerous occasions. Even if Prince remains an original artist in his way of creating, it remains difficult for him to provide good full-length albums since several years. (November 2014)

Nikki Sixx, bassist and main songwriter of Mötley Crüe, decided to form his own band in 2006 with singer James Michael and DJ Ashba. Sixx is issuing the third album of Sixx: A.M. in the wake of the farewell tour of his main group. As indicated in the title of Modern Vintage, it borrows elements that made the glory days of hard rock, while using slightly more modern technology, including electronics in the rhythms and textures. The album is more accessible and danceable than the previous two records of the band, but it still remains firmly rooted in rock. An effective rock sound of the 21st century, a far cry from what Sixx could have wrote for Mötley Crüe since the 1990s. While Mötley Crüe is leaving, Sixx: A.M. seems to be taking off with certainly their best album. Note their very modern version of The Cars’ “Drive”. (November 2014)

In such a desire to return to the sound of their debut, Weezer decided to hire once again Ric Ocasek to produce their ninth album. After the pop evolution on Raditude, and their comeback into the underground with Hurley, the group finds back a large and clean rock sound on Everything Will Be Alright in the End. Even if he is back in a familiar zone, Rivers Cuomo still allows himself to do some music explorations, including a conclusion with a progressive touch. But we must admit, most of this album has the sound Weezer does best and that allowed the group to create its entire fan base. Although surprises are a little less evident on this new album, it is sure to please most of their loyal audience. (November 2014)

Music Video: « Back to the Shack »

After a debut album that has made waves in indie rock (An Awesome Wave), the band from Leeds, England is back with This Is All Yours. The experimental introduction, almost new age, announces a musical turn for Alt-J, but then we hear songs in the tradition of what they have already offered. There are indeed some more left field experiments on different occasions, but other than that we feel influences from Peter Gabriel, it's still pretty much part of their style often more crazy than average. Few tracks emerge from the whole, except for the very effective and energetic "Left Hand Free". Otherwise, the album has several compositions of very high quality and that is where they are able to prove to us that we must continue to focus on them. To check out for the years to come! (October 2014)

Music Videos: « Left Hand Free » - « Hunger of the Pine » - « Every Other Freckle »

A native of Halifax, the younger brother of Paul Aucoin is back with a new album in the indie rock genre somewhat explosive. Inspired by the story of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Ephemeral presents a large predominantly electronic music, worthy of the concerts by Aucoin. Powerful choruses accompany effective guitars and the good rhythms of the album that has an unusual energy. More importantly, Rich Aucoin provides us with very solid compositions, original and hard to compare. The main shortcoming of Ephemeral is that it seems too short with only 10 songs totalling 30 minutes. (October 2014)

Music Videos: « Are You Experiencing? » - « Yelling in Sleep »

Known for her work with Bet.e & Stef and Beast, as well as her participation in the Triplettes de Belleville and her collaboration with DJ Champion, Betty Bonifassi finally has a first album under her own name. One of the greatest voices in the country, it is used here as a tool to interpret traditional work songs sung by slaves or prisoners listed by Alan Lomax. The music is mainly by Betty and Jean-François Lemieux with some collaborators. There are also two original songs: "Working Down" and "How Does It Feel". Musically, the album is rather unclassifiable with elements of jazz, soul, funk, rock and trip hop. Extremely creative, the record wants to be a great tribute to the African slaves taken to America for labor purpose. In addition, the CD is presented in a very nice rigid booklet giving us the desire to buy the CD rather than the digital version. (October 2014)

On her first album, Steph Cameron seems to return to the roots of folk, a style that Bob Dylan was able to make larger than life in the 1960s. The young singer-songwriter from British Columbia took only 3 days in the summer of 2014 to record her album in Toronto. In addition to her 1960s folk influences, you can hear some blues and bluegrass influences. She has a unique guitar style with a straight rhythmic play that is quickly becoming the heart of the album, with her voice of course. Here is a very successful first record by the modern-day folk singer that does not hesitate to explore her first inspirations. (October 2014)

Adam Cohen issued We Go Home just a week before a new album by his father, Leonard. Oddly, Adam has never sounded that much like his father with an intimate folk pop record centered on his voice and acoustic guitar. Before presenting We Go Home, he had completed a whole other album he has thrown in the trash. Instead, he decided to go back to his roots, his early influences. Partly recorded in Montreal and on the island of Hydra in Greece, We Go Home was co-produced by his friend and long-time collaborator, multi-instrumentalist Don Miguel. Adam can rely on several talented musicians for this fourth album, including cellist, guitarist and backing vocalist May Bloomfield. (October 2014)

Music Video: « We Go Home »

After difficult years following the end of their contract with Geffen, the alternative rock band from San Francisco is back with Somewhere Under Wonderland. More relaxed and optimistic, the group seems ready for a renewal after a 20-year career. The guys even start the album with a long song over 8 minutes with different atmospheres, "Palisades Park", an ambitious decision, but that works wonderfully. Counting Crows do not hesitate to walk between an energetic rock sound, songs trending to country music and pieces of soft folk on acoustic guitar. The balance is pretty good throughout the record and their fans will certainly be satisfied. The band has probably its best album in years. (October 2014)

Music Video: « Palisades Park »

Electric Youth is an electro-pop duo from Toronto formed of Bronwyn Griffin on vocals and Austin Garrick for the music. The couple formed the duo in 2009 before being discovered thanks to the Drive soundtrack in 2011. They offer a rich and cinematic sound that has everything to survive the musical trends. This is also their goal for their album to become the favourite album of people who are not yet born. With Innerworld, Electric Youth finally have their first full-length album. Through the use of numerous synthesizers from another era, the sound of the album is 80% analog. It is therefore worthy of the electronic music of the 1980s, a perfect accompaniment to any teen movie of that era. Otherwise, it remains rather one-dimensional with constant melancholy that can become annoying after a while. (October 2014)

Music Videos: « Innocence » - « Runaway »

For this new album, the voice and guitar of Piers Faccini are accompanied by Vincent Ségal’s cello to interpret covers and original songs. Faccini and Ségal met 25 years ago, and their musical connection was immediate. After various collaborations throughout their careers, the two musicians finally work together on a joint album. We find somewhat all styles on this album, even if the common denominator remains the link between voice, guitar and cello. Moments of blues and jazz come together, and in all languages. There's even a bit of Creole, "Mangé pou le coeur" of Reunion’s Alain Péters, and a country waltz, "Quicksilver Daydreams of Maria" of Townes Van Zandt. The traditional and contemporary Neapolitan repertoires are also explored. Faccini replays two songs of 1996, "A Half of Me" and "The Closing of Our Eyes". As for Ségal, he has two new songs, "Cradle to the Grave" and "Everyday Away From You". (October 2014)

The rapper is back with his fifth album, a record that seems to get a little more serious. Nevertheless, we still find plenty of his favorite themes of money, drugs and sex, with some songs having a strip club atmosphere. Several melodies are largely effective, but it lacks some creativity to his compositions and especially to his lyrics to make of Blacc Hollywood an album of first quality. There are several famous collaborators, and this is one of the most interesting elements of the CD. You can hear among others Juicy J, Curren$y, Nas, Rick Ross, Snoop Dogg and Nicki Minaj. While not bad, Blacc Hollywood could use a creative helping to make an album of high quality by Wiz Khalifa. (October 2014)

Music Videos: « We Dem Boyz » - « KK » - « Promises »

The 24-year old New Zealander is back with a second album, three years after Vows which had attracted much attention. But it was her duet with Gotye for the blockbuster "Somebody That I Used to Know" which has made her known worldwide. She still has a great mix of both indie pop and R&B with great vocal melodies as well as inspired and exhilarating music. She is surrounded by many collaborators from diverse backgrounds with members of The Mars Volta, Muse, Silverchair, etc., in addition to John Legend and Bilal. Yet, despite these people with very different styles, Kimbra retains full control on her album which doesn’t go in all kinds of directions. It is her personality that emerges throughout the 12 tracks for an extremely cohesive album to the end. In this sense, she managed a masterstroke which makes The Golden Echo even more interesting than her first record. Here is a very good example of an album borrowing to past genres to make a very good new sound. (October 2014)

Music Videos: « 90s Music » - « Miracle »

For their new album, the Ontario band The Mandevilles requested the services of producer GGGarth Richardson (Rage Against the Machine, Biffy Clyro). Again, the group present their unique blend of rock 'n' roll and roots, with a touch of country that is evident at times, a combination that reminds Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty and Melissa Etheridge. Windows and Stones was recorded in Vancouver, almost live in the studio, giving more than ever the feeling of the band's concerts. In addition, the quartet welcomed a fifth member, Waylon Glintz, and they all participated in the songwriting in collegiality. The result is their rawest album, the closest to what they really are on stage. In addition, this third record offers several excellent compositions. This is probably their best album to date for The Mandevilles. (October 2014)

Music Video: « Hangovers »

After a long period of confusion, the Irish artist has returned with an album on which she offered what she does best: great pop melodies on How About I Be Me (And You Be You)? issued in 2012. She pursues in the same path with I'm Not Bossy, I'm the Boss, which opens with what would be the title track of her last album. She has several very good pop rock songs. Saxophonist Seun Kuti plays on the funky "James Brown", while you can hear the work of Brian Eno at different times, adding texture to the more direct sound of Sinéad. Without matching what she produced best early in her career, I'm Not Bossy, I'm the Boss presents quality music for Sinéad O'Connor, to make us forget her years of wandering. (October 2014)

Music Video: « Take Me To Church »

The Swedish band that has existed for over 20 years gives us another album in the line of Heritage, released in 2011. Their fans had yelled at treason when Opeth have been shifting gradually to a more progressive sound, leaving aside at the same time their feature death metal sound. These fans may therefore be forgetting Pale Communion which once again gives a much softer style where progressive experiments dominate the gothic atmosphere they created in the past. In return, fans of King Crimson and Deep Purple may find themselves in the music of Opeth which while being more modern, can easily be compared with these rock legends of the 1970s. There are two ways of taking this album: by comparing it with what they have done before or going back to basics forgetting their past. If we compare Pale Communion with their previous work, you can actually find that the group betrays itself and from this point of view, we can come out rather negative. Otherwise, if one takes the album as it is without worrying about their past, one realizes that all the ingredients are present for a creative album of high quality. However, a little more power in the production would have been appreciated. (October 2014)

While the former Led Zeppelin finally returned to his native England after a long stay in America, he pursues the same path on this one than on Band of Joy, issued in 2010. This time, he surrounds himself by new musicians, the Sensational Space Shifters, and features original songs. Plant explores different styles of rock and folk, sometimes even reaching almost disturbing ambient extremes, on the edge of new age. Often intoxicating and captivating, his music can also go into more normal territory with a rock sound that is reminiscent of Led Zeppelin in the "Kashmir" era. On this new album, Robert Plant still manages to prove that it is possible to be influenced by the past to create new music. In fact, it even becomes destabilizing and it takes some time to identify to this unique style. Well, there are quite a few slightly more soporific songs, but the whole remains of high quality. It is only a pity that we cannot hear the voice that has thrilled us, first because the power is not there anymore and secondly because the soft music is not often pertinent for it. (October 2014)

Music Video: « Rainbow »

The German DJ and producer first became famous by making remixes of popular songs like Mr. Probz’s "Waves" and Lilly Wood & The Prick’s "Prayer in C". It is therefore not very surprising that his first album contains mainly remixes. In addition to those named above, you can hear Lykke Li’s "No Rest For the Wicked", Clean Bandit’s "Rather Be", Coldplay’s "A Sky Full of Stars", and many others. There are also a handful of originals among the 20 tracks that make up the 67-minute album. The particularity of Robin Schulz is that he provides rather melodic and soft house music, although still very danceable. Prayer is a very pleasant album to listen to, not just on the dance floors. (October 2014)

Music Videos: « Waves » (Mr. Probz) – « Prayer in C » (Lilly Wood & The Prick) – « Willst Du » (Alligatoah) – « Sun Goes Down » (Jasmine Thompson)

The metal band from Des Moines, Iowa releases its first album in six years, the first since the death of bassist Paul Gray in 2010 that greatly affected them all. It is also their first record without drummer Joey Jordison, who left in 2013. Despite a renewed rhythm section, the band has lost none of its vitality, and this fifth studio album for Slipknot has a very effective mix of the raw metal of their debut and the melodic lines of more recent years. The group follows its mission of skillfully giving us a full sound with this album of 14 tracks totaling about 74 minutes. (October 2014)

Music Videos: « The Negative One » - « The Devil in I »

The singer-songwriter from Calgary now based in British Columbia is back with a new album, still in the indie rock style with strong influences of folk. Also a poet and rapper in her spare time, she took also the role of producer and plays all the instruments. On From Far Away, she offers 10 tracks totalling only 32 minutes between muscular rock songs and softer acoustic pieces. Unfortunately, she so tries to do everything in such a short time, she loses a lot of consistency. The album quickly becomes disjointed and it is difficult to remain captivated until the end. It’s too bad, because it's not the talent that is lacking for this multidisciplinary artist. (October 2014)

The Canadian indie folk band is constantly evolving, and this is still the case on Between Colours. The group adds more wealth to its large folk sound. Sometimes more rock, their style is also becoming more and more cinematic. The group relies on renown collaborators as Michael Phillip Wojewoda (Rheostatics) on theremin and Alex Lifeson (Rush) on guitar for a memorable solo. Between Colours contains a unique wealth of instrumentation with the addition of synthesizers and the superposition of several guitars, not to mention the alternate voices of Will Whitwham and Amanda Balsys. (October 2014)

The Montrealer of adoption from Lebanese origins is back with a new album combining R&B, pop and hip hop. Otherwise, of the 16 songs on his fifth album, there are a few instant hits. There is in fact "Summertime" which has all the potential to reach the top. For the rest, it is essentially a pretty standard R&B sound with a lack of creativity. Note his good energetic cover of Fleetwood Mac’s "Go Your Own Way". (October 2014)

Music Videos: « Summertime/Let’s Get Rowdy » - « Go Your Own Way »

The Nigerian-born French singer issues a third more pop album, clearly done to reach a wider audience. We still recognize the unique phrasing that makes her irresistible on several occasions. Otherwise, the music loses almost everything of its African influences, including the lyrics in Yoruba. She co-wrote two songs with Piers Faccini, including the excellent "Bed of Stone" which gave its title to the album. Even if she loses some of her uniqueness with Bed of Stone, Asa has still some good soul songs with a strong pop package. (September 2014)

Music Video: « Dead Again »

Megan Bonnell is a young folk singer, guitarist and pianist who grew up in rural Ontario before moving to Toronto. She toured North America with Justin Nozuka, in addition to discovering the world stages with John Grant. On her first album, Megan offers us soft and comforting music impressed of a single poetry for a singer that age. The sounds that are still rich are based primarily on the muffled voice of the singer, a subtle acoustic guitar and an occasional gentle piano. Without revolutionizing the genre, Megan Bonnell has a personal emotion that allows to offer a beautiful album. (September 2014)

The London power metal band DragonForce already offers its sixth album in 15 years of career. The group has lost none of its speed, accuracy and virtuosity through the years. For Maximum Overload, the guys decided to work for the first time with an outside producer, Jens Bogren (Opeth, Katatonia). The producer has brought them some discipline which forced them to work harder. This results in a more intense record than in the past. The level of creativity is also up a notch, even if the band retains the elements that made its reputation as old video game sounds and their unique guitar playing. There was only one collaborator on the album, Matt Heafy (Trivium) who lends his voice to three tracks including the first single, "The Game". For the first time, the band did a cover of a well known song, and not just any: Johnny Cash’s "Ring of Fire". This surprising moment comes to us at the very end, when stunning is at its peak, but their very personal version is the highlight of the CD. (September 2014)

Music Video: « The Game »

The young pop singer from Florida already has her second album. On this new record, she is helped by several talented producers to give a new life to her music (Max Martin, David Guetta, Benny Blanco, Ryan Tedder, etc.). She inserts an R&B energy to her very soft pop music oriented towards the 1990s, and at the same time, it puts even more evidence on her powerful voice. You can hear many guest singers including Iggy Azalea, The Weeknd, Zedd, Big Sean and many others. Ariana reminds us a little too much about Mariah Carey on many occasions and she would be well advised to detach from her. But vocally, she certainly has fun in playing in the same register. In fact, Ariana still lacks to forge her own personality. She then may well be different from her competitors and at the same time become a great pop singer. Because she has the talent, do not have doubts about it! (September 2014)

Music Videos: « Problem » - « Break Free »

In-Flight Safety is a Halifax band that was formed about ten years ago. They are mainly influenced by Britpop music, including bands like Travis, Coldplay and Radiohead. Arcade Fire and U2 are never too far away either. On this third full-length album, the band continues in the way they had established 5 years ago on We Are an Empire, My Dear. Dynamic rock songs with catchy melodies are linked at a good pace for 35 minutes. The only drawback is that you can not get rid of their influences, which appear to remain well represented in each of their compositions. It’s too bad, because Conversationalist is still an enjoyable album to listen to the end. (September 2014)

The Australian singer-songwriter presents his first album. James Keogh (aka Vance Joy) offers folk pop music with highly effective melodies, extremely catchy. Built around the international hit "Riptide", Dream Your Life Away contains some other interesting tracks such as "Winds of Change" in opening and "Best That I Can" just before the end. Otherwise, the whole quickly becomes predictable with a few songs that manage to stand out from others, especially from the artists who influenced him (Jack Johnson, Mumford & Sons, James Blunt, Jason Mraz). For fans of contemporary folk crooners, Vance Joy will give you maybe a few interesting moments. On the other hand, the album certainly does not meet the expectations created around "Riptide", with music and lyrics without much creativity. (September 2014)

Music Videos: « Riptide » - « From Afar » - « Mess is Mine » - « First Time »

King 810 is a nu metal band from Flint, Michigan that can be compared in part to Slipknot and Korn, with also passages reminding of Pantera by the voice and guitar riffs. After an independent album in 2012, the group presents its first album for Roadrunner Records. This is a long CD of 16 tracks totalling 68 minutes. As its title indicates, Memoirs of a Murderer goes into the dark and twisted world of a murderer with certainly very tough lyrics and an atmosphere of horror films. The band manages to alternate between fast songs and slower heavier moments. But, in terms of creativity, it is not often well done with all the clichés of metal which are grouped in the same album. The dramatic voice of David Gunn is far too exaggerated and in addition, the overall sound of the album seems old and dated. Finally, there are only very few good things on the album. Songs like "Fat Around the Heart" and "Eyes" may stay in your mind, but these are very few good moments among 16 tracks too caricatured. (September 2014)

Music Videos: « Killem All » - « Fat Around the Heart » - « War Outside » - « State of Nature »

After the blockbuster she got five years ago thanks to the hit "Bulletproof", it is not easy for La Roux to come back with creative material and as catchy. These years of waiting and anguish for Elly Jackson resulted in the departure of her collaborator Ben Langmaid. She suffered from writer's block page, panic attacks, loss of voice, and so on, forcing her to postpone several recording sessions. The title of her new album has not been so difficult to find. Otherwise, to see all the electro-pop artists inspired by the new wave of the 1980s that have emerged in recent years, one can easily realize that La Roux still has her place on the current music scene. The British artist continues in the same way on Trouble in Paradise that still inspires largely from the 1980s, perhaps even more than on her first album. References to David Bowie are still present, but it is based a little more on disco and even reggae ("Tropical Chancer"). Despite danceable rhythms, La Roux has a greater vulnerability in her writing. Most of all, there is no longer the kind of hits as "Bulletproof", which is likely to relegate her quickly to second place in the genre. This is still a very good album. (September 2014)