Alex Crellin saw Cult Of Fire, Tribulation, Dead Congregation and Inverloch in Hobart, Tasmania. “A non-metal fan’s impressions of a decidedly black metal concert…”

Back before Christmas Alex Crellin, the youngest member of our team, had tickets to see MONO in Melbourne. Due to age restrictions at the venue he wasn’t allowed in to the show but the band kindly allowed him to attend their soundcheck instead, which he reviewed for us.

Ultimately, ‘Fever Daydream’ delivers. It’s a superb collection of songs, and it really offers something for everyone (as long as you like 80’s style synth-pop). The Black Queen may have crafted one of the best dream-pop albums of modern times. Highly recommended. – By Alex Crellin

Rather than review the record in a traditional sense we asked our writers to each contribute a short piece on what Mogwai mean to them persoanally. This caused a considerable degree of consternation in the camp and much discussion as to how on Earth you distill two decades of music in to a couple of paragraphs. This is what they had to say.

A good album but melancholy seeps into where it is not always wanted, and, while the album shines when it uses this, the incoherence in theme makes it feel aimless however the technicalities of the instrumentation are tight, and there are no complaints from me regarding Bonnetta’s vocals. By Alex Crelin

Juxtapparition is a masterpiece in alien music. The tight instrumentation is minimal, providing exactly what it needs. It’s smart, introspective music, and it screams atmosphere. The intricacies of each piece deserve multiple listens. Despite this, I never once felt it was a chore to listen to. They don’t so much demand your attention, but rather ask politely, and I was honestly pleased to give it to them. By Alex Crellin

Waking Aida have returned stronger than ever with their sophomore album. It’s complex, hopeful, and above all, fun. Full Heal is truly a joyful effort, and to craft something so enjoyable to listen to is a masterful achievement. In a genre dripping with melancholy, the optimistic 48 minutes you spend with Waking Aida is something very special. By Alex Crellin

The natural feel of the music makes it easy to listen to, but it cannot be accused of being simple. The sheer sophistication that Synkro delivers in Changes is incredible, and it is definitely worth a listen. By Alex Crellin