Reviewed by Amanda Simms Suraya Sadeed’s memoirs begin with a dramatic recollection of smuggling $35,000 across the Afghanistan border beneath a burkha in 1998. What follows is a blend of autobiography, the history of the post-Soviet Afghanistan, as well as the development of her charity, Help the Afghan Children. Fleeing to the US after the […]
Ladytron: Gravity the Seducer (Nettwerk)
Reviewed by Amanda Simms Ladytron return with their trademark, ethereal electronica on Gravity the Seducer, showcasing the dichotomy of what they do best: flittering from catchy sharp electro to layered and dreamy. Simple and chilled, ‘White Elephant’ is a strange choice for an opener that would perhaps put non-Ladyton listeners off as it doesn’t signify […]
Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks: Mirror Traffic (Matador/Domino)
Reviewed by Amanda Simms After last year’s Pavement reunion tour, anticipation ensued for fans when it was announced that Beck would be producing Stephen Malkmus’ new album. Mirror Traffic feels like a distinct break from 2008’s Emotional Trash towards more melody driven tracks and, while lo-fi production fits perfectly with his style, it’s nice to […]