Back catalogue: Rock (All)

Review: Whatever & Ever Amen by Ben Folds Five is a well regarded indie album that effortlessly blends alternative rock with piano-driven pop sensibilities and now gets a reissue on vinyl. Folds' clever songwriting shines throughout the album as he weaves poignant lyrics with catchy melodies and infectious hooks. From the anthemic 'Brick' to the playful 'Kate,' each track showcases the band's unparalleled musicianship and dynamic range. The album's raw emotion and authenticity still resonate and create an intimate connection that transcends its era. It is the rich harmonies, memorable tunes and heartfelt storytelling that make this one such a classic in the alternative rock genre.

Review: Following on from last year's triumphant return to pop-punk glory that was Blink-182's ninth overall full-length One More Time (yet seventh with original vocalist/guitarist Tom DeLonge and first since 2011's Neighbourhoods), the band return to remind fans that the extensive good will they've been awarded by their devout followers on this comeback is very much reciprocated. Too early to drop another full-length, yet clearly rejuvenated to the point that new material keeps rearing its head during their continuing global tour, the trio opt to meet themselves in the middle with One More Time Part 2, which is essentially a mega deluxe version complete with ten bonus tracks, adding an additional half hour of new material (a new album in pop-punk terms). Boasting refined anthems such as 'No Fun' and 'All In My Head', while making room for darker synth-laden moments such as 'Can't Go Back' and even more Box Car Racer indebted buzzsaw post-hardcore in the form of 'Everyone Everywhere', this definitive collection offers far more than a forgettable batch of cutting room floor B-sides, and provides a comforting notion that this (one more) time around, Blink are back for themselves and the creative reward as much as for the fans and the payday.