Alternative music, cult films, and pop culture explored through a Gen X lens — with reviews, interviews, and a deep-dive podcast.
Peter Murphy ‘Silver Shade’ (Metropolis Records, May 9, 2025): Pioneering vocalist expands his sound on his new album, which includes guest appearances from Trent Reznor and more. Nearly a decade after his last studio album, Peter Murphy returns with ‘Silver Shade’ (Cooking Vinyl, May 9, 2025): a feral, adventurous record that feels like a culmination […]
Concert Review: Ministry Revisit Their Synth Pop Origins at Emo’s, Austin: Al Jourgensen and bandmates, flanked by openers Die Krupps and Nitzer Ebb, gave their ’80s new wave output an industrial makeover in a bucket list show for die-hard fans. Austin loves Ministry. The band, helmed by Al Jourgensen, who lived briefly in the Texas […]
The Darkness ‘Dreams on Toast’ Review: theatrical UK glam rockers subvert expectations and explore new sounds on eighth album. The 2024 documentary Welcome to The Darkness showcased the survival skills of a band that peaked commercially with their 2004 smash debut album Permission to Land, broke up, reformed, and transitioned into a cult act with […]
Ministry ‘The Squirrely Years Revisited’ Review: Al Jourgensen Makes Peace With His Synth-Pop Past over 40-years later on new album. “I think I’m the only person that could probably say that they sold out before they started. I’ve hated that record for years, just on the simple principle that it’s not my record and that’s […]
Red Fang ‘ Deep Cuts’ Review: Pacific Northwest sludge rockers showcase 20-years’ worth of rarities on new double-album. ★★★★ Celebrating two decades of their refined blend of stoner and sludge metal, Red Fang’s “Deep Cuts” is a 26-track compilation that offers fans a treasure trove of the band’s lesser-known works. Released on March 14, 2025, […]
‘Welcome To The Darkness’ Movie Review: jovial UK rockers’ rise, fall and rebirth makes for an endearing documentary. ★★★★ The Darkness rocketed to fame on their 2004 debut album Permission to Land, buoyed by glam influenced hits like I Believe In A Thing Called Love and Growing On Me, infused with their unique wit and […]
Jerry Cantrell’s ‘I Want Blood’ Review: Alice in Chains vocalist/guitarist shines on a sullen yet gorgeous new solo album. Jerry Cantrell is one of the most consistent and tasteful songwriters in the business. His work in Alice in Chains shows a distinctive talent for off-kilter sonics, emotive vocals, and a sublime mix of heaviness and […]
Episode 54: The Melvins’ Dale Crover Talks New Solo Album ‘Glossolalia’-SLIS Podcast: veteran drummer talks third solo effort, current European tour, Melvins’ activity and more in new interview. Today, we’re talking with legendary drummer Dale Crover, best known for his work with The Melvins. Their unique blend of metal, punk, and experimental music helped shape […]
Concert Review: The Sisters of Mercy Return to ACL Live: Goth icons cast a bewitching spell over their rabid Austin fanbase. This past Sunday, The Sisters of Mercy played their second performance in Austin in just over a year. This was a welcome surprise, given the 17-year absence that preceded their 2023 return. Darkwave duo Blaqk […]
Episode 52: The Sisters of Mercy’s Guitarist Ben Christo Talks Band’s 2024 North American Tour and More -SLIS Podcast The Sisters of Mercy are one of the most iconic Goth groups of all time. Despite not releasing an album since 1990’s ‘Vision Thing,’ they retain a devoted fanbase, as evidenced by the rapturous acclaim of […]