A quick glance at what has gotten my attention lately …

FISHBONE, Stockholm Syndrome (2025). This band has a lot on its mind, and Fishbone has never been a group known for letting things fester. From the very outset of this album, the band makes it clear where they stand, and how the events of the last few years have affected their point of view. These thoughts are carried by Fishbone’s usual eclectic mix of sounds, particularly rock, soul, and reggae. This album may not be as musically “heavy” as they were in the past, but that doesn’t mean their songs lack weight. Stockholm Syndrome is musical catharsis.

https://fishbone.net/

WE LOST THE SEA, A Single Flower (2025). We Lost the Sea is not the band you turn to for your “happy happy joy joy” days. But within their musical darkness lies their utmost strength. This band lives to pull every emotion out of you and put it on full display. It’s been six years since we last had our heartstrings tugged, but the Australian post-rockers have returned and here we go again. A Single Flower is as dark as its predecessors, but in an incredibly beautiful way. The grooves are systematic, the melodies mildly chaotic, and the overall atmosphere hits you square in the feels, refusing to let up. It’s the ideal record for darkness, headphones, and a candle. Complete release.

https://welostthesea.bandcamp.com/album/a-single-flower

exo-X-xeno, Luminous Voyage (2025). Initial thought: “This album really puts off serious Yes vibes.” Reads liner notes, finds three ex-Yes members are involved. “Well … that explains it.” But let’s not call this album derivative. exo-X-xeno is a band unto itself. Lead vocalist/guitarist Craig Maher, Billy Sherwood (bass), Jay Schellen (guitar), and Patrick Moraz (keyboards) use the familiar springboard to launch themselves into their own corner of the prog rock universe. The musical chemistry is obvious from the first note, no doubt due to each musician’s extensive experience. These guys really know how to play together. The music itself is both intricate and highly accessible. This is a voyage well worth taking.

https://exo-x-xeno.bandcamp.com/album/luminous-voyage-flight

THE CYBERIAM, Durty & Live (2025). It would seem the only thing more enjoyable than a studio album from The Cyberiam is getting to hear their efforts from the stage. Durty & Live gives us a chance to hear their efforts from the stage, without a net. The band doesn’t disappoint. Their interplay is flawless as they weave through pieces (relatively) simple and (quite) complex. Alternately heavy and (slightly) lighter, the Cyberiam have a firm grasp on who they are and what they’re doing. And the do it well.

https://thecyberiam.bandcamp.com/album/durty-live-2

#cirdecsongs

If you would like to have your music reviewed anytime or have your band photographed while in Chicago (USA), please contact me at cirdecsongs@gmail.com