A record deserves more than a rating
Our approach to reviewing new independent music.
Describe before judging
A useful review helps a reader understand what a recording does. It can describe the sound, structure, performance, and emotional movement before explaining the writer’s response. Specific language is more revealing than a row of approving adjectives.
Separate context from assumption
A press release may supply valuable background, but an artist’s intentions and a listener’s experience are different things. We want our criticism to make that difference visible, and to avoid turning promotional language into unexamined fact.
Give the work time
Some recordings make an immediate impression; others reveal their character across several listens. A review should reflect attention rather than a race to be first. Its purpose is to offer a considered perspective, not deliver a final verdict for every listener.
Be clear about relationships
Readers should be able to distinguish editorial coverage from paid promotion. If commercial content appears in Independent, it should be labelled clearly. This page explains our intended review standards; individual reviews will appear as the release section develops.
