Reports
Reports
John T. Gast - Infant
John T. Gast is an enigmatic figure in the UK underground music scene, known for his experimental sound that merges various influences, often creating a sense of lost or haunted media. His latest release, Infant (2026), features off-kilter sounds reminiscent of old video games, showcasing organic loops and rugged samples. The album stands out due to its warm, cohesive sound inspired by but not copying Aphex Twin, blending unsettling ambient elements.
As the album progresses, it takes on a more industrial tone with tracks that utilise hypnotic loops and deceptive rhythms. There's an overwhelming theme of haunted media, with unsettling, glitchy soundscapes. Gast's rejects contemporary production norms, leaning into surrealism and the aesthetics of lost media folklore.
Local Analyst - Similar Structures
In Similar Structures (2025), Local Analyst takes me on a deep dive into the world of aquatic techno, building on the groundwork laid by Drexciya. Instead of reinventing the genre, he aims to craft bone-chilling dance tracks that capture the essence of the ocean's depths. The opening track sets the tone with heavy, tectonic sounds reminiscent of underwater terrains, and the album's themes of isolation and darkness are inspired by films like Sphere and The Abyss. Striking examples of eerie whale songs create an unsettling atmosphere which evokes the ocean's vastness. tracks highlights the fearsome beauty of unseen creatures beneath the waves.
VIER - IIII
The underground supergroup consisting of Thys, Machinedrum, Holly, and Salvador Breed has released their first album, IIII, under the new project VIER. which is praised for its exceptional sound design, musicality, and production quality. IIII features innovative layering of organic sounds, creating distinct atmospheres and rhythms that allow each element to shine without clashing. VIER's approach melds emotion with sci-fi wobbles typically found in bass music. While the album is well-produced and evokes tenderness, it struggles to create deeply memorable moments. The breakdowns are standout features, suggesting that more of these elements could enhance its broader appeal and secure its place in the upper tier of bass music.
Vaarwell - 3am on the northern line
The London-based duo Vaarwell, originally from Portugal, is making waves in the UK underground music scene with their album 3am on the Northern Line (2025). Their sound blends UK garage with uplifting synth elements, offering a refreshing take amidst typical club bangers. The album is a reflective homage to the UK underground, drawing influences from key artists like Burial and Mount Kimbie.
The duo showcases angelic vocals and soft synths, highlighting the contrast between club influences and more introspective sounds. However, there are moments where originality feels lacking, particularly in garage sections that seem overly nostalgic, whereas their strength lies in vocal-driven melodies.
One standout track, 'Safe', balances nostalgia with modernity through emotive vocals and intricate breakbeats, creating a cinematic, exhilarating experience. Ultimately, while Vaarwell has a knack for texture and emotion, they need to innovate beyond familiar influences to fully realise their potential.
Viagra Boys - viagr aboys
The Viagra Boys have reinvigorated garage rock and punk with their unique songwriting and tongue-in-cheek humour, drawing comparisons to the original Oasis sound but with a more authentic vibe. Their latest album, Viagr Aboys (2025), showcases their gritty psychedelic guitar riffs and punk-inspired lyrics, embodying a summer feel even in winter. Their effervescent sound is joined by experimental exploration this time around. Some moments risk feeling zany for zany's sake, and the lyrics can verge on the nonsensical, but the band's nonconformity shines through. There are added layers of introspective depth, while the band maintain their iconic sound. Overall, the album's critical acclaim is well-deserved as the band stays true to their style while introducing new elements.
Anthony Child - of the Beginning
Anthony Child's work under his own name differs significantly from his techno alias, Surgeon, but not as much as you might think. While Surgeon produces high-energy tracks, Child's music is more mellow and introspective, incorporating classical writing techniques and emotional storytelling.
Of the Beginning acts as a spiritual sequel to his earlier work, blending nature-inspired sounds with softer atmospheres. It showcases contrasting emotions through various sound palettes. Ultimately, Child's work explores complex feelings and the tension of decision-making, distinguishing it from Surgeon's focus on escape. The diverse nature of electronic music highlights how artists experiment with a range of genres and techniques. Of the Beginning acts as a spiritual sequel to his earlier works, showcasing softer, dreamier atmospheres and an emotional depth. The album features contrasting sound palettes and explores turbulent emotions, blending hopefulness with underlying tension. Overall, the album represents a unique artistic exploration, distinct from Surgeon's more energetic techno sound, addressing personal and societal themes.
L.F.T. - Hell Was Boring
L.F.T. (Johannes Haas) has consistently released high-quality music, evolving from an electro sound to a more gothic post-punk style in his latest album, Hell Was Boring (2025). This album showcases a more bombastic production style, blending punk and DIY aesthetics while maintaining accessibility. It captures a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of 1980s bands like Bauhaus and Siouxsie and the Banshees. Standout tracks include 'Waste Your Facelift', 'Going in Circles', and 'Iron Sights', highlighting L.F.T.'s improved songwriting and the collaborations, such as 'Totengräber' with Felix Kubin, introduce dynamic elements to the sound. The album blurs the lines between electronic goth rock and industrial music, making it an impressive and replayable work that resonates with a confident, rebellious energy.
QRTR - ONDAS
The landscape of female expression in pop music is evolving. A shining example of this movement is Meagan Rodriguez, better known as QRTR, whose upcoming album ONDAS (2025) beautifully embraces the minimalist electronic sounds reminiscent of the 2010s.
Standout tracks like "I Guess I Don't" deliver a hauntingly atmospheric vibe, while 'Self-sabotage' captivates with its angelic vocals and breakcore textures. QRTR artfully weaves in engaging interludes, such as in 'Shell Call,' alongside the electrifying opener 'Put a Show On,' which sets an exciting tone for the album. The Latin-inspired rhythms accelerate to a fever pitch while icy vocals flutter over top.
With a blend of strong electro grooves and irresistibly catchy hooks, ONDAS is perfect for both club nights and adventurous road trips. While it may not redefine songwriting, this album certainly marks an impressive milestone for QRTR, reflecting her unique artistry and the vibrant spirit of female empowerment in music.
Angel Investor - I Can't Smell The Roses Underground
Angel Investor's debut album, I Can't Smell the Rose Underground (2025), is an emotionally resonant blend of indie folk, distorted guitar sounds, and sepia-toned noise, brought to life by Jack Dione and Silas Johnson through Jane Records. The album features a mix of gentle melodies and grainy chords, tied together under wobbly vocals that feel so intimate. The album explores and twists genre conventions, merging shoegaze and grunge influences, especially evident in 'Stillicide' and incorporating early 2000s pop inspirations in 'In The Headlights'. The personal and uncomfortable themes resonate strongly in songs like 'I'm Gone', exemplifying a relatable loneliness. Produced with an analogue warmth, the album creates a nostalgic yet fresh listening experience, perfect for autumn nights. While some stylistic choices may detract from the overall narrative, the album's unique sound and emotional depth make it a standout debut.