CATALOG AND PLAYLISTS
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latest releases, including Angel Olsen’s “All Mirrors.” This section also houses
entertaining themed playlists including “Pop Queens” and “Big Dance Energy.”
Tidal has dozens upon dozens of themed playlists that are categorized by
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playlist-based music service that inspired many imitators. That’s not at all a bad
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metalheads back to the heyday of MTV rock.
Other sections highlight new albums, individual tracks, and the aforementioned
video content. You can discover music by browsing the genre categories (a
feature Pandora lacks) or by using the search box. Browser- and desktop-based
based Tidal lacks Audio Search, a Shazam-like feature that analyzes music
playing in your environment and displays song information. Tidal’s Android
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Overall, the service’s music catalog is stacked. Tidal has struck agreements with
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artists like Arcade Fire, Michael Jackson, and Led Zeppelin, as well as indie
faves, such as The Dirtbombs and Harlem. You can, of course, favorite songs
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people like me who occasionally want to read along to a song.
TIDAL WAVE
Tidal is often perceived as an artists’ ego trip, but it’s so much more. The
service’s feature-length articles, curated playlists, exclusive albums, video
content, high-quality audio (especially via the Masters feature), and early access
to concert tickets add unique value. Tidal is an Editors’ Choices, joining
LiveXLive Powered by Slacker Radio and Spotify as the best streaming audio
services we’ve tested.
JEFFREY L. WILSON
PC MAGAZINE DIGITAL EDITION (^) I SUBSCRIBE (^) I NOVEMBER 2019