finally something that makes sense in this world….

well, before january is over and we get on with 2026, i figured i should take a moment to acknowledge my favorite album of last year. i didn’t love matt berninger’s solo debut, but his sophomore effort is one i’ll keep going back to. “nowhere special” + “little by little” is especially perfect.

new pulp?! yes, please! cos who doesn’t need a little *more* jarvis in their life?

back in the day, i listened to the sea and cake quite often. at some point last year, i was randomly inspired to see what @1sampre.bsky.social was up to, and thankfully found this blippy beauty.

i can’t recall when or where i first happened upon this darkwave trio from belarus, but their intoxicating sound was one i recurringly returned to last year. hoping they tour stateside soon…

transmuting emotional despair into darkly amusing turn of phrase and delightful dance-floor fun, #austra once again enchants with “chin up buttercup.”

for years, @pelicansong.bsky.social was one of those i’d bands i’d randomly hear and wonder, who is this? i was lucky enough to see them perform with russian circles at the metro last year, and now follow their every move. their latest lp is perfect for driving and getting pesky tasks done.

i’ve been a fan of @pictureplane.bsky.social since stumbling upon “dark rift” 16 years ago. i was very excited for the new album, which was fittingly (and thrillingly) released on halloween, and it definitely delivers.

it’s always a treat to fall into the solo efforts of the cure’s keyboardist, @rogerodonnell.com. his latest meditative voyage has been on repeat for the last couple of months, and i imagine it will continue to carry me through winter and beyond.

intoxicating from the start, this dynamic record quickly became an easy go-to over the last few weeks, somehow being both soothing and surprising every time i listen. i’m new to the world of @danielmarkavery.bsky.social and will certainly be digging further into his discography.

heartbreaking news. i’ll always remember meeting perry at tower records in campbell, ca. i was an overwhelmed teenager, and he was an absolute gent. thank you for the music + memories. www.thecure.com/news/2025/12...

if only we prioritized such pleasures more often…but yes, let’s start with one day. i’m in!

this album has been staring at me from inside since day one, and no matter how many decades go by, i shall always keep it close to me. :) to one of my most beloved albums of all time, i wish you a very happy birthday!

not a bad day for music….

a very happy birthday to the most extraordinary artist i know. if there’s ever a day to devote to the cure’s phenomenally beautiful discography, it’s today. play every track - b-sides included - LOUD!

happy birthday to my first taste of this magnificent wonder of a band! alligator, you will always be in my top 10! …and all the wine is all for you!

a very happy 45th birthday to the cure’s american debut! tis a privilege to pay tribute to these songs that have stood the test of time. “you take me in your arms and start to burn….”

whether you're under gray skies or sunlight is falling around you, the new compilation “For LA Vol. 1" makes for lovely wintry listening. it's also a nice way to support relief + recovery efforts for the many affected by the #lafires. heliosmusic.bandcamp.com/album/for-la...

farewell to my favorite director of all time. i shall always treasure your dreams and mind and the many artistic gifts you bequeathed us.