JACKBOYS: Self Titled (2019) (Hip-hop,Trap)

JACKBOYS is one of many nonessential compilation albums. Travis and Co. give mild performances with an air of unearned pompous as the responsibility and authenticity of the record are diffused through members of the Cactus Jack Records. 



Best Tracks: OUT WEST, WHAT TO DO?, GATTI

D+



Hip-hop/Trap

Parasite (2019)

 Well acted and beautifully shot. Dialogue is top notch even with subtitles. Gradually becomes more and more suspenseful but the ending may seem overly simplistic leaving the audience having to reevaluate the ethos of the film. An overall social message is threaded through the film. Worth watching.

8/10 

Enya: Watermark (1988) (Pop)

A cohesive blend of ethereal Celtic New Age and experimental pop. Some songs are slower (Watermark, Evening Falls...) some more cheerful and jumpy (Orinoco Flow) others more stormy(Cursum Perficio, Storms in Africa pt1&2). Enya sings vocals in 3 different languages and uses them as elegant instruments, weaving with other instruments giving some occasional structure on some songs while crafting some powerful vocal performances when she chooses to make her voice the centre-piece. Though borrowing from classical and folk, most of the project has a bright electronic sheen. Most songs have a strong influence of ambient music allowing a lot of space, successfully creating an ethereal feeling. A lulling project, lush and bright dreamy canvas in a refreshing New Age paganesque experience.


Best Tracks: Watermark, Cursum Perficio, On Your Shore*, Storms in Africa*, Exile, Orinocco Flow*, River, The Longships*, Storms in Africa - Pt. II*

S



Forest Vibes/Ambient Pop/Celtic New Age/Experimental Pop

Amanaz: Africa (1975) (Rock)

Though the instrumentation is not captivating in technicality, and the songwriting can fall on Western cliches, there is a fun communal and incredibly raw aesthetic that is evoked in Africa that embodies aspects that make Zamrock worthwhile. A decent variety of instruments and effects are used occasionally crafting intriguing harmonies (especially the chaotic basslines). The ending of Kale is one of the strangest but most fulfilling moments on the album. Many songs have highlights: Khala My Friend, Nsunka Lwendo, Africa, Green Apple, Easy Street. 


Best Tracks: Khala My Friend*, Nsunka Lwendo, Africa*, Green Apple, Easy Street, Kale

B

Garage Rock/Zamrock