It’s undeniable that Jónsi epitomized whimsical folk rock on his 2010 solo debut, Go. The album’s jubilant boisterousness—let’s call it “youth retreat campfire folk”—came ripe for mumblecore drama movies and summer camp recap videos, all while carrying the depth and dynamics the Icelandic prodigy built as the frontman of post-rock…

Robyn performs at the Fox Theater in Oakland on Feb. 25, 2019. Photos: Roman Gokhman. OAKLAND — The influence of Swedish singer-songwriter Robyn on thoughtful modern pop is everywhere, from the dramatic delivery and slick dancing of Christine and the Queens to the empowered writing of Billie Eilish. There’s…

Christine and the Queens perform at Fox Theater in Oakland on Oct. 26, 2018. Photo: Shawn Robbins. It’s the most wonderful time of the year. No, not Christmas. I’m talking end–of–the–year list season. While I enjoyed RIFF editor Max Heilman’s list, it left  a strong metallic taste in my mouth.…

Phoebe Bridgers performs at the Fox Theater in Oakland on Nov. 27, 2018. Photo: Chloe Catajan. The end has finally arrived—the end of 2018 that is. That means it’s year-end list time. With great albums comes great songs, and in a year that brought us plenty of great singles,…