Music publications, both on-line and off-line, have a purpose to inform and educate their readers about music. In the case of new releases they have to quickly digest and assess the music then publish a review. This rarely gives true insight into an album, because one’s opinion of that album can (will?) change with time. It’s invariably this long term view that’s most valuable at gauging the artistic merit of such music.

I fortunately have luxury in being able to (mostly) defer reviews for a year or more, which is why my end of year albums reviews normally turn up a year late! Individual track reviews are more appropriate for the instant hit required.

Stephen Trossé, writing in his review of Joan As Police Woman’s Real Life, today:

Maybe all records should only be reviewed a year after they come out