ProgRock

 "Forbidden is five tracks that leave behind the obsessive and hypnotic melancholy of the early works in favor of a decidedly more sunny, catchy sound."

 "The moment that most strikes is the 6 minutes of the closing track 'Bass Crawl,' a bass that is as sweet as it is hypnotic, accompanying the most emblematic verses: 'it is not what it seems / it’s exactly what you need.'"

Idaho's 1997 EP Forbidden marks a shift from their hypnotic and melancholic beginnings to a sunnier, more melodic sound. Featuring Jeff Martin's vocals and guitar work reminiscent of late 90s Pavement, the EP blends nostalgic lyrics with catchy melodies. The closing track 'Bass Crawl' stands out as a hypnotic highlight. This release shows the band's natural sonic evolution alongside the Slo-Core scene. Listen to Idaho’s Forbidden EP to experience a refreshing, melodic shift in 90s indie and slo-core sounds.

 A short and relaxing journey in the dead of night, cradled by a soft cloud in the sky, flying over the world until the edge of the city.

 An irresistible stress-reliever that makes you want to listen to it repeatedly, the duration and format ensure an ideal compactness.

This review highlights The Radio Dept.'s 2003 Pulling Our Weight EP as a charming and relaxing shoegaze release. It praises the band's melodic approach amid dense sonic clouds and compares their sound to Slowdive and My Bloody Valentine. The EP is described as a compact, calming journey, recommended even over some later releases. Its dreamy and sweet melodies make it an effective stress-reliever and a standout in the genre. Listen to The Radio Dept.'s Pulling Our Weight EP for a soothing shoegaze experience that remains fresh and captivating.

 "Martin's voice sinks into a catharsis now melancholic, now desperate, dictated by guitars that evoke a sky full of 'frigid stars.'"

 "A band that is as valuable as the more well-known names of early '90s Slo-Core and an album perfect for cold rainy afternoons."

Idaho's 'Year After Year' is a strong debut album from 1993 that blends melancholic lyrics and evocative guitar work. Rooted in the early '90s sad indie scene, it captures despair and resignation through intense and calm moments. The album is praised as equal in value to prominent slo-core acts and is recommended as an ideal soundtrack for introspective, autumnal days. Listen to Idaho's 'Year After Year' and immerse yourself in a beautifully melancholic slo-core experience.

 "The 20 songs of the album are nothing but timid and small twinkling stars in a silent night, distinguished by Johnston’s passion for melody."

 "Daniel’s sincere and almost childlike voice could provide the soundtrack to an old black and white film or some animated cartoon where the drawings and writings of his covers come to life."

Songs of Pain is Daniel Johnston's raw and intimate debut cassette, capturing his emotional struggles with love and anxiety through simple, lo-fi melodies. The album's childlike voice and minimal instrumentation create a timeless atmosphere that contrasts with polished 1980s music. Johnston's blend of passion, sincerity, and graphic art influences makes this record a unique and essential work for fans of authentic songwriting. It's a gentle, melancholic collection best experienced in quiet solitude. Discover the heartfelt simplicity of Daniel Johnston’s Songs of Pain—listen now and experience timeless lo-fi artistry.

 The style of these Portuguese is a sort of very “ambient” cosmic music, enriched by flautistic and guitar parts.

 After a few times of re-listening, however, I realized that it is a genuinely enjoyable work, only occasionally challenging.

Egyptian Kings' album Almagest offers a compelling mix of ambient cosmic music with progressive and space rock influences. While initially potentially challenging or sleep-inducing, repeated listens reveal a richly textured and enjoyable work. The album draws stylistic parallels with artists like Tangerine Dream, Camel, and Porcupine Tree but maintains a unique Portuguese approach. Released in 2006, Almagest stands as a strong, underrated contribution from the Iberian progressive scene. Dive into the cosmic sounds of Egyptian Kings' Almagest and explore a unique blend of ambient and progressive rock from Portugal.

 "The title track is the moment I appreciate the most of this work; Cedric’s vocalizations recall those of 'The Widow'."

 "This specific solo work might appeal to those who appreciate the sound of The Mars Volta, but not their instrumental 'exaggerations'... looking for something more contained and less dispersed."

This review explores Omar Rodriguez Lopez's 2007 solo album 'Se Dice Bisonte, No Bufalo,' noting its musical ties to The Mars Volta but with a more restrained and focused approach. Featuring notable collaborations with Cedric Bixler-Zavala and John Frusciante, the album combines progressive and South American influences. Highlights include the title track and 'Please Heat This Eventually.' It appeals to listeners seeking a less extravagant but still inventive sound linked to Mars Volta's style. Explore Omar Rodriguez Lopez's unique solo journey—listen to 'Se Dice Bisonte, No Bufalo' for a focused yet eclectic progressive rock experience.

 "A work that sounds of a stylistic freshness that is nothing short of surprising."

 "Recommended for those who love the genre and a possible invitation for those who have not yet appreciated it."

The review critiques the stagnation of Neo-Prog while praising Far Corner's 'Endangered' for its avant-garde freshness and originality. Drawing inspiration from ELP and Univers Zero, the album avoids typical guitar-driven prog and features bass, strings, and keyboard-driven compositions. Recommended for fans of progressive and avant-rock genres seeking innovation and stylistic depth. Discover Far Corner's Endangered and dive into a fresh take on progressive rock. Listen now and experience true avant-garde innovation!

 This album remains to me as a sort of soundtrack for moments of carefree cheerfulness alternating with melancholic tracks.

 They are certainly pupils who do not disobey the masters of the genre.

The review praises Noah and the Whale’s 2008 debut album Peaceful, The World Lays Me Down for its engaging melodies and storytelling. Although not on par with folk legends like Will Sheff or Jeff Mangum, the band delivers a charming mix of carefree and melancholic tracks. Fronted by Charlie Fink, the London band’s music echoes influences from Arcade Fire, Bill Callahan, and The Decemberists. The album is recommended for folk and indie folk listeners seeking a relaxed and heartfelt summer soundtrack. Listen to Noah and the Whale’s debut album for a peaceful folk experience that blends heartfelt melodies with charming storytelling.

 His off-key singing perfectly combines with violins and guitars with a neurotic pace.

 There are few bands that manage to move me like these Montreal geniuses.

The review explores A Silver Mt. Zion’s album Kollaps Tradixionales, highlighting its eclectic mix of punk, folk, and symphonic elements. Efrim Menuck’s off-key vocals and apocalyptic soundscapes evoke comparisons to Godspeed You! Black Emperor and 1970s progressive rock influences. The album balances calmer moments with intense instrumental sections, showcasing originality and emotional depth. It is praised as a powerful and moving work from the Montreal collective. Listen to Kollaps Tradixionales now and experience the raw, eclectic energy of A Silver Mt. Zion’s unique soundscape.

 Do Make Say Think propose a mix of Jazz/Electronic solutions rooted in Tortoise with elements relatively common to certain German cosmic music.

 I consider this band one of the most valid of the late '90s, associating them with the Post Rock genre may also be limiting.

Do Make Say Think's self-titled 1998 debut from Toronto presents an eclectic blend of post-rock, jazz, and electronic elements. The album stands out for its innovative style, avoiding repetitive post-rock clichés. Key tracks like "Dr. Hooch" and "Disco & Haze" showcase a psychedelic and dynamic sound. The review highlights the band’s uniqueness within the genre and their lasting impact on alternative music scenes. Discover the groundbreaking sounds of Do Make Say Think’s debut—listen now to experience a fresh take on post-rock and jazz fusion.