Back catalogue: Leftfield

Review: David Holmes' first solo album since 2008's The Holy Pictures, Blind On A Galloping Horse now comes to Heavenly Recordings. A politically-charged LP full of sonic interrogations of political disaster and turmoil, Holmes here joins the cast of artists using their art to provide solace to music fans suffering at the hands of the Uncertainocene. With updated versions of the previously released singles 'Hope Is The Last Thing To Die' and 'It's Over If We Run Out Of Love', as well as a recording of an unreleased song by Holmes' late friend Andrew Weatherall, we're reminded of conflict, migration and othering, as all manner of voices combine to form a diverse but unified whole against a backdrop of leftfield post-punk - be they the spoken word accounts from Afghan and Ukrainian refugees now welcomed as residents in Belfast, or the French and Irish observers of the UK's turmoil of recent years.

Review: Marlene Ribeiro's cult status has already guaranteed copies of this will be flying out faster than you can say "first album under own name after years as Negra Branca, a member of GNOD, and collaborations with luminaries from Valentina Magaletti to Thurston Moore". And her first offering as herself, as it were, rockets straight to the pinnacle of career highs to date, a record that's so full of ideas yet consistent and complete.

Produced between Ireland, Portugal, Madeira and Salford, partly inspired by Ribeiro's grandmother, Emilia, introducing her to the concept of "recording things, here and there". The result is this incredible combination of hallucinatory dream pop, found notes and captured moments, resulting in a vivid tapestry of hook-laden songs that are meditative yet catchy, late-night but bright and breezy.

Review: Claire Rousay's Sentiment, her first release via Thrill Jockey, is an audacious leap into a unique blend of folky emo and experimental soundscapes. This ten-track album showcases her fearless creativity, combining Midwestern emo guitar tunings, plucked arpeggios, and Auto-Tuned vocals with her signature ambient textures. While it may initially seem disorienting, this eclectic mix reveals its depth and charm upon repeated listens. 'Head' stands out with its stark, minimalist vocals reminiscent of Julien Baker, while 'It Could Be Anything' channels the emotional intensity of early Pedro the Lion. Another great song, 'III,' aligns closely with Rousay's recent work, offering a cohesive blend of her experimental and melodic sensibilities. 'Lover's Spit Plays in the Background' pays homage to Broken Social Scene and echoes Phoebe Bridgers' introspective style. Sentiment is an ambitious and adventurous effort that challenges listeners to embrace Rousay's genre-blending approach. This album is full of raw authenticity and emotional resonance that make it a rewarding listen for those willing to dive into its intricate layers.