This week’s hot six starts with Strawberries, the new album from Robert Forster – co-founder of the Go-Betweens and one of Australia’s most acclaimed singer-songwriters. This album is on the softer, more melodic side of indie pop; but ultimately, it’s hard to argue against that as an approach to songwriting.
Trip-hop royalty Morcheeba make a blistering return with a stunning 11th studio album, Escape the Chaos. “This whole record is a process of trying to reconnect with what really matters. Whether with what’s in your heart or with the world, putting your feet on grass and feeling the earth beneath you,” says Ross Godfrey.
Are you having aerial troubles with your colour TV? We can’t help with the technical issues, but we can take your minds off the problem with Instant Holograms on Metal Film, the first Stereolab album in 15 years, which features 13 new studio recordings.
Irish trio Amble harness a rare magic threaded into the fabric of their novelistic folk. Their debut album, Reverie, is full of descriptive storytelling, heartfelt lyrics and powerful performances. The 14-track project was recorded live, often in only a take or two, perfectly encapsulating their raw energy and authentic spirit.
On its original release in 1997, Sci-fi Lullabies reached No. 9 in the UK Albums Chart and received widespread critical acclaim. The collection showcases some of Suede’s finest B-sides from their most prolific era (1994–1997), featuring tracks from Suede, Dog Man Star and Coming Up.
Our release of the week comes from Sparks, who – unlike most acts in their sixth decade in the biz – are constantly looking for new sources of musical inspiration, and they return triumphantly with MAD!, proving yet again their resilience and relevance in a modern world.
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