Ever since she stepped into the spotlight in the ’80s, Madonna has been putting out iconic pop anthems that transcend time. She’s reinvented herself many times, so it’s surprising that her newest album Madame X falls flat in comparison. The album lacks a central theme, leading to a disjointed listen.…

Aurora is no stranger to experimentation, but her third album, A Different Kind of Human (Step II), takes far more chances than her previous work. The Norwegian art-pop singer-songwriter takes a more imaginative approach, and it works. Each song’s distinct sound flourishes within the thematic parameters of individualism and preservationism that…

Clockwise from top left: Kevin George, Dana Williams, STARBENDERS, Sarah McGowan, Jozzy and *repeat repeat. Every week, there’s a plethora of new music at our fingertips. Artists on platforms like Spotify and Bandcamp are plentiful, and the radio offers a steady deluge of new singles, but who has time…

Following 2017’s momentous Flower Boy, Tyler, the Creator begins a new era with IGOR. It feeds his iconic approach to hip-hop through a fresh, complex instrumental and emotional filter. Before releasing the album, Tyler tweeted, “The first listen works best all the way through. No skips. Front to back.” Indeed, the songs…

Rupa Marya of Rupa and the April Fishes. Courtesy photo. San Francisco’s Rupa Marya has spent her adult life dedicated to fighting injustice. The doctor and musician has used her actions to back up her often outspoken lyrics in global alternative band Rupa and the April Fishes. Rupa and…

Clockwise from top left: Knocked Loose, CYN, Good Kid, Ex Hex, Yuna, Amber Mark. Every week, there’s a plethora of new music at our fingertips. Artists on platforms like Spotify and Bandcamp are plentiful, and the radio offers a steady deluge of new singles, but who has time to…

For those who grew up listening to The Drums, Brutalism does not disappoint. It’s Jonny Pierce’s solo project now, carrying on what used to be a full band. Brutalism strays from sunny vibes of previous albums but sticks with a distinct pop sound. It’s hard to pick a favorite song,…

Omaha electro-punk outfit The Faint continues its exuberant crusade with a 10th studio album, Egowerk. The LP dives deeper into themes on the darker effects of social media and society. It would find itself at home on a disco playlist with its layered synths and repetitive vocal refrains, but taking a closer look…

Baker Grace Every week, there’s a plethora of new music at our fingertips. Artists on platforms like Spotify and Bandcamp are plentiful, and the radio offers a steady deluge of new singles, but who has time to sort through all that? RIFF does! We pooled our resources to find some of…

Oakland indietronica artist Spellling’s second full-length album, Mazy Fly, strikes an intriguing contrast between excitement and fear. Chrystia Cabral’s take on ‘80s electronic music generates an almost-possessed feel with its unique use of synths and chilling vocals. All of these songs share the backdrop of haunting vocals and a heartbeat of…