I started No Frills Reviews in late 2022, essentially with the mission statement to write about music in a way that I’d want to read about it. A reaction to over-pretentious, overly technical music writing, which bores me to tears. And, on the other end of the scale, the bland copy+paste PR fluff / AI drivel that’s increasingly out there. My aim is to sort of bridge that gap; writing that brings passion and insight, but is still accessible enough that the average reader isn’t going to get lost in a sea of obscure references.
Music media is a dying form, yet remains a completely over-saturated market. I certainly don’t consider myself a music journalist or pretend to have industry connections. This is very much a one-man, part-time affair. Ultimately, I recognise I’m just another voice adding to the noise, but without editorial constraints and other pressures, I can at least be free of bullshit. I don’t need to try to be an influencer, or make you listen to another fucking podcast.
I’m passionate about discovering new music, but I’m also realistic and kind of a cynical twat. Music writing has always had a tendency towards sensationalism, particularly in the era of appealing to engagement. There’s alway plenty of good music being released, but there’s far more that’s simply average or worse. Quality control is important, so I try to filter out a lot of the noise; if everything is great, then nothing is great. That hopefully means you can trust my opinion and that any enthusiasm is genuine (plus, I do have impeccable taste).
Contact: I’m based in the North-East of England, if you’d like get in touch, please email me (Kev) via: nofrillsreviewsmusic@gmail.com. I can never guarantee a review, but I’ll always make sure to check out any music I’m sent. The blog is a one-man, part-time project though, so please don’t be offended if I don’t get back to you (listening to music is time-consuming, man).
No Frills Reviews 