Had A Question on Reviews

[Bak]

I am a Journalism major in college but I write mostly political commentary, I'm highly interested in music and thought for fun I'd write some album reviews.
What I was asking is if there is any specific way to write one, i.e. do I do individual song reviews or just the highlights, should I give backstory on the artist or start right with the album.
If anybody has some pointers, references, or personal opinions, they would be greatly appreciated.

[Kaleid]

Track-by-tracks tend to be favoured by reviewers just starting out, but it's generally better to try to write about the album as a whole. What's the general feel of the album, what do you think it sets out to do, what are the highlights, what are the flaws that let it down? Who would like it? Are there preceding albums - if so, how does it compare to them? A backstory is usually unnecessary except in the case of relatively obscure artist/s - info is under the artist title - but go with your instincts.

Generally, it's best to just go with the flow and write what you feel about the music; but if you get a structure up, it helps it all flow better. Check out reviews by Med as well as staff writers. Also, this is a good guide:

http://www.sputnikmusic.com/forums/showthread.php?t=533862

[Eliminator]

dont listen to anyone here and read a lot of reviews on other sites with good writers

[JumpTheF**kUp]

Med57

[Eliminator]

*robert crumb

[Jom]

Have a look through here:

http://www.sputnikmusic.com/forums/showthread.php?t=533862