The best of 2018, according to Joseph Rabjohns (Kodiak Empire)

1) Skullcave — FEAR

I was instantly drawn to the crushing post-metal of Skullcave. Despite having moments of crushing heaviness, Fear also contains carries immense emotional weight, featuring delicate on more stripped back moments as well. My favourite track is probably Fear to Hide, although have mainly listened to the album all the way through and love it as an entire piece of art as well.

2) Instrumental (adj.) — Reductio ad Absurdum

I was lucky enough to witness Instrumental (adj.) perform with fill-in Bassist Josh Ahearn (Squat Club, Helu) back in March at NICEFEST Brisbane and my mind was blown. Their virtuosic level of musicianship and mind-bending use of odd meter had me a bit taken back. I’ve been listening to Reductio ad Absurdum regularly since.

Panopticon would have to be my favourite track on the release. This was one of the first releases Ben and I helped since joining up to help out at Art As Catharsis, which was extremely exciting and humbling! I’m very much looking forward to hearing where they take themselves on their next release!

3) Everything Nothing — Tides of Man

Tides of Man create post-rock that is grounded by groovy percussive rhythms, floaty yet searingly heavy guitar tones, and tastefully placed electronic/synth sounds. This album is no exception and is a satisfying continuation on from their last release Young and Courageous. My favourite track would have to be New Futures.

Bonus round: Bear the Mammoth — Years Under Glass

I was extremely impressed by this album. Bear the Mammoth create post rock that refuses to blend in with pioneering bands like Explosions In The Sky and Mogwai. Years Under Glass holds it’s own, maintaining an ethereal undertone while presenting bold and driving rhythms throughout the release. My favourite track is Decembering.

The best of 2018, according to Andrew Mortensen (Kurushimi, Serious Beak, and Slimey Things)

1. Jamie Saft – Solo A Genova

This album is just gorgeous. I love Saft when he’s on the Rhodes, Wurlies, organ etc… but I think it’s the piano, where he REALLY shines! After last year’s amazing ‘Loneliness Road’, when I heard he was doing a (his first ever) full-solo piano album, I knew it would be great! Saft’s emotions come through so well on the various standards & American compositions presented here …and to hear the version ‘Pinkus’ (a favourite of mine from his previous releases), just made my year.

2. John Zorn – Masada Book 3: The Book Beri’ah

I selected this for a few reasons – the sheer size of the project, the box-set design and of course, the music. My box only arrived in November, and I’ve only had one listen through the whole thing (it’s 11 discs), but it’s great. Those familiar the Zorn’s Masada compositions know what to expect, but you’ll also be pleasantly surprised by the compositions and some of the interpretations. There are some really interesting arrangements and unique presentations by the various acts involved.

From memory, I really loved Spike Orchestra, Abraxas, Ghostic Trio, Zion80 and Cleric, but I’m sure I’ll love it all when I get around to spinning them all again.

3. Ellen Kirkwood & Sirens Big Band – [A]part

When I heard some rehearsals of the project, I was really keen for the proper studio recording. I really love Ellen’s ear for harmony; both dissonant and gorgeous, and often all at once. It also touches on various genres, and it all just comes together very cohesively. The featured soloists are sensational (Andrea Keller, Sandy Evans, Gian Slater) and it is recorded & mixed beautifully. And she’s a local!

Bonus round: Brian Campeau – Old Dog, New Tricks

By no way has Campeau been overlooked this year with his new album. People are raving about it, both locally and outside of Australia, which is great. For this, he took a more positive & up-lifting path, which lead to new ground for him, and it produced a killer album. I’ve always loved his stuff, and it was so excited when I heard the first single from it. He also blew me away recently when he re-arranged and performed in entirety Deftones’ “White Pony” album. Incredible musician and such a top guy. I hope to collaborate with him in the future.