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Critic's Notebook

Showing 1 - 22 of 7717

Why this Phoenix rock radio DJ has left the airwaves

By Benjamin LeathermanDecember 16, 2025

The longtime fixture of the Valley has signed off after 20 years.

5 must-hear records by Phoenix bands

By Tom ReardonDecember 15, 2025

These bands got aurally absorbed on a cross country driving trip. Here’s how they fared.

10 best concerts in Phoenix this weekend

By Amy YoungDecember 11, 2025

Live sounds abound in the Valley. Here are some top options.

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Readers torch parents upset over ‘Pink Pony Club’ usage at Phoenix school

By Benjamin LeathermanDecember 9, 2025

“They must not remember what we used to request at the skating rink.”

Phoenix New Times’ best concert photos of 2025

By Benjamin LeathermanDecember 7, 2025

Featuring Kendrick, Teddy Swims, Pixies and more.

Here are the top artists Phoenix listened to on Spotify this year

By Amy YoungDecember 3, 2025

We see you Phoenix: You have Kendrick and Drake on the brain.

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Sonic attacks: 10 top diss tracks that waste no words

By Tom ReardonNovember 26, 2025

Lily Allen, Ice Cube and even the Apostle Paul have thrown some brutal lyrical shade.

Spinal Tap Live show

5 top fictional bands in film history

By Steve RyanNovember 21, 2025

Before Huntr/X and Saja Boys battled it out, a slew of movie bands gave us earworms.

See CMA Awards’ 2025 Entertainer of the Year in Phoenix this April

By Amy YoungNovember 20, 2025

Along with other big winners.

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A look at 2025’s Dreamy Draw Music Festival

By Jacob McAdamsNovember 10, 2025

This year’s event delivered good vibes, vintage ‘fits and soulful sounds.

Seven perfect albums to listen to during a breakup

By Charlotte CurranNovember 8, 2025

Splitting up can suck. These records and an ugly cry alone in your room may be just what you need.

Video: Miss World Chile sings epic death metal track at pageant

By Amy YoungNovember 7, 2025

Ignacia Fernández’s ferocious vocals took everyone by surprise at contest’s semifinals.

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devotchka on stage

DeVotchKa died and came back as Rebel Lounge legends

By Sam EiflingNovember 1, 2025

The immortal Colorado indie band spun an ethereal dance party in Phoenix during an intimate Halloween set.

The five most terrifying songs ever recorded

The five most terrifying songs ever recorded

By Glenn FosbraeyOctober 31, 2025

Halloween season inspires a hunt for spooky tunes. These are chill-inducing all year round.

Kid Rock performs at Republican National Convention

Kid Rock is the new Hondo Rodeo Fest headliner and Phoenix isn’t thrilled

By Amy YoungOctober 13, 2025

Cody Johnson dropped out due to a medical issue.

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Pop singer Taylor Swift poses for photo.

Swift science: Aggressive marketing guarantees success

By Annayah ProsserOctober 12, 2025

At this point, does it matter what the music sounds like? A researcher’s deep dive.

Taylor Swift’s ‘Father Figure’ isn’t a cover of George Michael’s 1987 hit

By Timothy McKenryOctober 5, 2025

It’s an ‘interpolation’ and here’s what that means.

A band onstage at a concert.

Ahead of its time: ELO’s forgotten sci-fi masterpiece

By Jason LeValleyOctober 3, 2025

“Prophetic” release may have been born too soon.

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10 ways to celebrate the new Taylor Swift release

By Amy YoungOctober 1, 2025

DJs, drag brunches and bracelet making stations to up your Swiftie-stack collection are all in the mix.

Headlines to earworms: Songs inspired by unfortunate real-life events

By Cory FryeSeptember 26, 2025

A list of songs by a writer who has mixed feelings about lists.

The 13 best record stores in metro Phoenix

By Phoenix New Times WritersSeptember 23, 2025

Where to find the best vinyl in the Valley.

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The 20 most epic Arizona State Fair concerts since 2000

By Benjamin LeathermanSeptember 22, 2025

Rhianna, Flaming Lips, Pitbull and other legends have brought their A-game to the fair.

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