Month: December 2025

Week 51: Pink Floyd- Wish You Were Here 50

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This Dolby Atmos 50th anniversary edition of “Wish You Were Here” may appear to be a cash grab, but underneath the surface, that isn’t the case. The bonus material, which I will discuss later, has been carefully selected. The album’s emotional weight has been enhanced by the clarity and space, so all the emotions expressed with newly resonant without losing the original spirit.

My highlights from the new version include ’Shine on You Crazy Diamond (Parts 1-4)’, which benefits from the expanded soundstage, with its synths and guitar lines gradually blossoming, making it more immersive. I also like the new version of the title track, which brings the acoustic textures closer to the track’s emotion. ‘Welcome to the Machine’ is precise and more imposing, with the mechanical elements more defined, and the final track I will mention is ‘Have a Cigar’ because the use of the improved separation gives it more bite.

I feel the bonus material only enhances the latest edition of the album. We have a new mix of the record, remastered and using Dolby Atmos, and unreleased tracks from a live concert at the LA Arena in 1975, that offers a raw edge of the band improvising onstage. There are also alternate and early versions that show how the sound has progressed throughout the years. This helps take away the idea that this edition is just a “cash grab” or “filler,” because every version has substance.

“Wish You Were Here 50” celebrates the anniversary respectfully. The new versions brighten the tracks, and the bonus material adds texture and context. It is a must-have for Pink Floyd connoisseurs, and Dolby Atmos will introduce a younger generation of listeners to the band. My one gripe with it, and to be honest, it is to be expected of them, is that the songs are very long. There are Dolby Atmos versions and live tracks that run over 25 minutes. Pink Floyd connoisseurs will adore it because it shows off the band’s prowess, whereas a casual or new listener may find it a bit too much. There are also long intros, where the first lyrics are sometimes delivered at the 8-minute mark. As for the record, the songs remain the same, but with the element of Dolby Atmos, they have never been more clearer. You hear everything, and it’s glorious.

Song recommendations: ‘Have a Cigar’, ’Shine on You Crazy Diamond (Parts 1-4)’, ‘Wish You Were Here’


8/10

Week 50: Kylie: Christmas (Fully Wrapped) 2025 Edition

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WAHEY! It’s Christmas! Where most people are cheerful, and that is very infectious. Anyway, it is no surprise that a Christmas album sits atop of the chart. Usually, Michael Bublé does. At the moment, it is Kylie with an expanded edition of her 2015 record “Christmas (Fully Wrapped)”. The new edition is Kylie stamping her style over new songs and covers. We have effortless vocals that are both warm and playful.

Let’s look at some highlights from the album. I have excluded ’Santa Baby’ and ‘Let it Snow’. I will explain my reasoning in due course:

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year:


As you will discover, most of the songs are like supernovas. Mainly the covers, because they were written in a time when radio plays were extremely short. Kylie does this justice, delivering an upbeat, polished, celebratory tone without going too cheesy.

XMAS:

I guarantee that if you have been near a radio. You would have heard this new track, as it is being played to death, and with good reason, too. Rhythmic, quintessentially Kylie, that blends her modern pop sound into a Christmas theme with ease. This one will be on a future Christmas compilation; it is that good.

Hot in December:


Another new addition, and another standout alongside the previous one. Cheeky, playful, and of course, Kylie stamped. Not your usual Christmas track. I thought the title hinted at the weather in her native Australia during this period, but the lyrics talk about being free and flirting.

At Christmas:


Time for a reflective and tender refrain. Her vocals really sell the story.


Santa Claus Is Coming to Town ft. Frank Sinatra:


I was uneasy seeing that the late Frank Sinatra was included as it can often disrespect the memory, but this felt tasteful. Of course, Kylie’s vocals were exemplary.

This Time of Year:


Another new track, warm and gentle. Another refrain from the upbeat tempo.

100 Degrees ft Dannii Minogue:


The chemistry between the sisters is a sound to behold. You might think there might be a sense of bitter rivalry, but this disco-inspired track is delightful. The sisters give the album a colourful array of fireworks. 



Office Party:


Another favourite of mine. A silly, fun, and light track. The title says it all. If you know the chaos at the office Christmas party, you will know.

White December:


Melancholic and unmistakably wintry. 



Christmas Isn’t Christmas ’Til You Get Here:


An intimate and heartfelt track. Again. Kylie’s vocals shine.



Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas:


Restrained yet elegant vocals, and that cozy feeling of being by a logfire with mulled wine.



Now, earlier I mentioned why I do not like ’Santa Baby’ and ‘Let it Snow’, and now I will explain my reasoning as to why the record works without them:

More mature

There is no novelty fatigue

Flows better

Showcases more of Kylie’s artistry

Why? Because there is a better balance between playfulness, tasteful covers, and modern originals that serve a purpose rather than overloading the album.

Encore:


What a sublime listen this was. I much prefer this to the original released ten years ago. The record doesn’t have its polished sound when it gets playful, remains stylish, and has that Christmas feel without going over the top. One of the best Christmas albums I have ever had the pleasure of listening to.

Song recommendations: ‘XMAS’, ‘Office Party’, ‘100 Degrees’


9/10

Week 48: Aerosmith and YUNGBLUD- One More Time

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This collaboration between Aerosmith and YUNGBLUD for “One More Time” just doesn’t do it for me. I feel it’s a mismatch. I quite enjoy listening to YUNGBLUD and hearing his interviews, but unfortunately, I just can’t stand Aerosmith, and that includes ‘Walk This Way’ with Run-DMC. Never understood the hype around them. Because of their presence, the EP is spoiled. The raw energy and deep lyrics are lost among Aerosmith’s trademark sound, and therefore make YUNGBLUD’s contribution redundant. The blend hampers YUNGBLUD, and his statement gets lost amid outdated production, making this short listen laborious. If, like me, you’re not keen on Aerosmith, this EP isn’t for you. I won’t be recommending any track because I didn’t enjoy any of them. I will give it a 5 for YUNGBLUD’s contribution.

5/10