Dan Croll - One Of Us

Dan Croll - One Of Us.

What we are told - Liverpool's experimental, genre-defying Dan Croll is excited to announce the release of a new single - 'One Of Us' - the follow up to 2014's critically acclaimed debut LP 'Sweet Disarray' ("full of infectious harmonies", so said NPR). The track is available digitally now and is the first taster of what you can expect from Dan's second full-length, details of which will be announced soon. 

While 'One Of Us' lies at the heavier, more energetic end of Dan's spectrum it is still undeniably pop-infused. Much like the majority of his other material, 'One Of Us' was written and performed solely by Dan, with a pace and energy of this track showing his multi-instrumental prowess. Lyrically, the song touches on the various forms of peer pressure that he has witnessed around him - “Heard you can’t beat the rush, give in and be one of us. Told you 10,000 times that you'd rather be on of us".

Bold statements aside, Dan stays true to his genre hopping ways, delving deeper in to the likes of late 80's hip-hop outfits (De La Soul, The Pharcyde), layered electronics (Caribou, Tame Impala) and sci-fi films (Moon) as inspiration for this second album. With previously sold out headline tours on both sides of the Atlantic, including The El Rey in LA, New York's Bowery Ballroom and Koko in London, Dan Croll will be playing a handful of intimate headline shows this November across Manchester, London and Liverpool (dates below). 

Tour Dates:

09/11 - Manchester, Deaf Institute
11/11 - London, Hoxton Hall
12/11 - Liverpool, Buyers Club

In recent times Dan has picked up fans far and wide in the fashion, sport and entertainment worlds, ranging from British labels Burberry (who took Dan to Taipei in 2014 to launch of their new Trench collection) and Paul Smith (who personally hosted Dan’s album release party in his Soho store), to US TV stalwart Jimmy Kimmel (Dan recently made his US TV debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live), to the British Embassy inviting Dan to be a cultural ambassador during the World Cup, performing his first show in Brazil ahead of the opening England match.

It's one of those songs that kids me it's going to go one way, then takes a twist and chooses a better route. Add in the bubbling energy, top it with superb vocals and you arrive with 'One Of Us'. The soundtrack is equally engaging, so I guess what I am saying is, I like it!


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Two Distinctly Different: Calling All Astronauts - The Hummingbirds

Calling All Astronauts - Empire.

Them background words - It’s been two years since Calling All Astronauts (featuring members of pop punk pioneers Caffeine, goth stalwarts The Marionettes and seminal UK rap-metalers US:UK) unleashed their debut album “Post Modern Conspiracy”. Those two years have seen these London based alternative electro rockers release seven singles, gain massive radio and blog support worldwide (including BBC 6Music and XFM), build a 400,000 strong Twitter following and open for the likes of Roger Daltrey, Echo & The Bunnymen, PWEI and A Place To Bury Strangers.

Following a 20-month stint hard at work in their own recording studio, CAA are back, with a brand new single, “Empire” hitting all stores on November 27th. “Empire”, is the first single to be taken from their hotly anticipated second album “Anti-Social Network” (out in February 2016), and has been described as what you’d get if Johnny Cash had ever duetted with Jimmy Eat World! Intriguing right?

It's been getting a little soft around here of late. Calling All Astronauts deliver the energy in container loads. 'Empire' just works on so many levels, vocals are a little bit Bauhaus versus Sisters Of Mercy, with an artillery battle taking place behind. I'm supposed to be resting after an operation, fat chance with bands like this.

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The Hummingbirds - Out Of The Rain.

Background Promo - Always synonymous with great music, there’s no doubt Liverpool has a fantastic musical heritage, birthing a unique sound traced through the songs of musical icons such as; The Beatles, Cast, The Coral, Echo & The Bunnymen, Gerry & The Pacemakers, The Farm, The Zutons, The La’s, The Merseybeats, Teardrop Explodes and more recently Circa Waves… maybe it’s the accent, maybe it’s the culture, perhaps its just growing up surrounded by the unbeatable music of those who have gone before. For sure there’s something special and undeniably recognizable about a band coming out of Liverpool, The Hummingbirds are no exception. It’s impossible to discover this band without a frisson of excitement, without doubt there’s a strong possibility they are destined to join the line up of Mersey’s greats.

The Hummingbirds are a born and bred Liverpool five-piece, with Jay Davies on lead vocals / guitar, Mic Kountis on guitar / backing vocals, Matty Brougham on rhythm guitar, Ryan Lewis on bass and Richard Smith on drums / backing vocals.  Growing up on the streets of Merseyside the 23 year old lads have been heavily influenced by music from the 50's / 60's but deliver a 21st Century take on that heritage, creating their own contemporary melodies, hook - laden choruses and dropping harmonies into Americana tinged acoustic guitar riffs, like sugar sweetening a great British brew.

Friday 6th November sees the release of the band's first EP, ‘Out Of The Rain’ with accompanying tracks, ‘Awaiting Your Call’ and ‘Home’, on their own label, Gladstone Recording Co. They will be playing dates around the country during October / November / December with 2 London dates - 14th October at The Islington and 8th December at The Barfly, and The O2 Academy Liverpool on 28th November. Their debut album ‘Pieces of You’ is due for release March 2016.

'Out Of The Rain' has the audiophile quality to challenge any modern sound system, and yet transports you along a timeline anywhere from the sixties until today. This is no tribute act, they are the real deal, whatever the decade, superb music.

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Ummagma - Frequency (EP).

Ummagma - Lama (From the EP 'Frequency').

Background - Canadian-Ukrainian duo Ummagma have confirmed details for the UK release of their EP ‘Frequency’. This mini-album will be available through Raphalite Records and is slated for release on November 13th. Alongside five original tracks, the EP features remixes from Cocteau Twins legend Robin Guthrie, Wales' celebrated Lights That Change, and Malcolm Holmes of Orchestral Maneouvres in the Dark (OMD).

Ummagma consists of Shauna McLarnon, who hails from Canada's Yukon, and Alexander Kretov, who is from Ukraine. Since bursting onto the music scene in 2012, they have made a significant impact on the underground music scene. Their potent combination of uplifting and melancholic textured dreampop, shoegaze, postpunk, ambient and electronica rapidly gained them a sizeable international following despite the numerous issues they faced living between Canada and Ukraine.

‘Frequency’ follows the band's two debut LPs 'Antigravity' and 'Ummagma', which were simultaneously released in 2012. This release represents a slight departure from the first two albums, which whisked the listener through the romanticism of first meetings, big love, adventures abroad and optimistic dreaming through to the realities of birth, loss, death and departure. In contrast, 'Frequency' explores such themes as space and distance, timelessness, escapism, and the search for tranquility.

Canadian-Ukrainian duo Ummagma have blazed quite a trail for themselves in their short history. They've landed press coverage and radio play in more than 50 countries, including Rolling Stone Russia, and have managed to strike an endearing chord with a good number of 'first wave' shoegaze and dreampop artists, particularly from Creation Records and early 4AD rosters. "Ummagma have something very special about them that you don't find in many bands, that is an honest, believable & beautiful lyric delivered by an honest, believable & beautiful voice," says Malcolm Holmes of OMD. "When you combine this with the swirling ambience of lush layered guitars, this duo end up with their own unique sonic landscape."

Dreamy, ambient, gentle and smooth, oh! and throw in lush for good measure. Just what the music doctor ordered. This EP is everything the above promo promised and more.

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Something Special: Niamh Crowther - Shred Kelly - Little Red Lung

Niamh Crowther - Little By Little.

Background - Following 130,000 streams on Spotify and play-listing on national radio in Ireland, Niamh Crowther releases her single 'Little by Little' on October 23rd.

Niamh came to prominence in Ireland aged sixteen when she beat over 15,000 other young people to claim the prestigious Irish Youth Music Awards. The judging panel included Willie Kavanagh (then head of EMI), Jackie Hayden (founder of Hotpress magazine and the exec who signed U2 to their first record deal) and Will Ryan (Hozier). The accompanying rave reviews and talk about town earned her “one to watch” accolades from Hotpress, and on her eighteenth birthday Niamh found herself on stage with Richie Sambora.

Following the completion of her Leaving Certificate (A Levels), Niamh set about recording in Windmill Lane with some help from Tim Martin (The Corrs, The Commitments, Declan O’Rourke), resulting in the well-received 'Origins' and forthcoming single 'Little by Little' which has already been play listed on both RTE Radio 1 and RTE 2XM, selected as single of the week by multiple media outlets and featured across 32 radio stations across Ireland.

This is a wonderful song, that demonstrates the vocal qualities of Niamh, and just how good she can sound, especially when matched by a superb musical accompaniment. Website (here).

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Shred Kelly - Sing To The Night.

Background - Canadian folk rock heroes Shred Kelly have released (in America) their new single, “Sing to the Night.” Thanks in large part to their dynamic, high-energy, and engaging live show, Shred Kelly have crafted their own sound, called “stoke folk.” Their most recent full-length, Sing to the Night, was named one of the Top 15 Most Anticipated Albums of 2015 by CBC Music. They recently won Album of the Year and Best Live Act at the 2015 Kootenay Music Awards and are currently nominated for a 2015 West Coast Music Award for Best Music Video for “Sing to the Night.” Sing to the Night will be released in the U.S. on November 13.

According to Exclaim Magazine, “Sing to the Night is a huge step forward for this young group.” Through their individual backgrounds, Tim Newton, Sage McBride, Jordan Vlasschaert, Ian Page-Shiner, and Ty West have amplified the traditional sound of folk music with a more contemporary approach. Their reputation as a captivating live band has earned Shred Kelly sold-out shows across Canada, performances at some of the Canada’s premier festivals, and placement upon a growing list of awards and recognition.

Shred Kelly’s third album, Sing To The Night, features their signature claw-hammer banjo riffs, layered ambient synth, powerhouse rock, and lush vocal harmonies. Their acclaimed producer John Critchley (Elliott Brood, Amelia Curran, The Once) from Green Door Studios was a master at creating an album that pushed their creativity and gave Shred Kelly a new take on their signature sound. It is this “stoke folk” sound that has translated just as well on albums as it does on packed dance floors.

High energy folk? More like barnstorming folk, or as the band say 'stoke folk'. Now this is refreshingly good music, brimming with positives. Website (here).

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Little Red Lung - Porcupine Sheet (from the album 'Beware').

Background - Los Angeles' Little Red Lung originated as a solo project of singer/keyboardist Zoe-Ruth Erwin, whose pure, bellowing vocals have been compared to the likes of Florence Welch, Stevie Nicks and Grace Slick. She quickly brought on board three creative veterans of the local indie music scene: guitarist Ali Nikou, bassist Rob Hume, and drummer John Broeckel, whose unique influences spanning the psychedelic troughs of Hendrix, the urgency of the 80's post-punk movement, and the fierceness of the early Seattle rock scene, cultivated Little Red Lung’s distinctive voice. 

Little Red Lung's debut LP "Beware" promises to be a bold and uninhibited follow up to their 
acclaimed EP, stretching the boundaries of their unique multi-dimensional sound. Starting back in May 2015, Little Red Lung began releasing one song per month via iTunes, Bandcamp, Amazon and their official website. The full album will also be available on limited edition 40G Vinyl.

'Porcupine Street' is the first album track. It immediately suggests there is some real mileage in the promo description. This is a band happy to try out, and share musical ideas, both vocally and musically. If you like the featured track, the album will fascinate you. Website (here).

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Jesca Hoop - Live in Manchester, UK - 2010 (IA)

From the Internet Archive (IA) this is Jesca Hoop live at Band On The Wall, a venue in Manchester, England, back on Monday 24th May 2010.

This is what the Manchester venues website had to say about Jesca prior to the gig - Jesca Hoop was born in Southern California to strict Mormon parents. She grew up singing traditional folk tunes in four-part harmony, but soon broke away from this background, becoming a homesteader and working with children. As a nanny for Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan’s three children, Hoop gained both musical experience and notoriety; Waits said of Jesca, 'Her music is like going swimming in a lake at night'. Following exposure through radio station KCRW, Jesca toured with Polyphonic Spree, Mark Knopfler, Andrew Bird and Elbow – with Guy Garvey also dueting with Hoop on her (then) latest acclaimed album Hunting My Dress.

In addition to this we can add (from Wiki) As a result of meeting Tom Piper, the touring manager of the band Elbow, Hoop moved to Manchester, England in 2008. Initially she found it difficult to adjust "as a California girl, I find it hard to stay under that canopy of cloud". After settling in the Chorlton area of the city, Hoop spent 18 months recording new material for the album “Hunting My Dress” which was released in 2010. She had parked "a lorry trailer in my back garden that we use as an extension (...) where I go to write". In the same year she signed with the US-based label Vanguard Records.[8] It was followed by the “Snowglobe E.P.” in 2011, which consisted of a handful tracks recorded prior to her move to the UK. Hoop described them as "folk songs" and the EP received a degree of critical acclaim. The following year she released “The House That Jack Built” and in 2014 “Undress”; a re-interpretation of songs recorded four years ago.

Recording Details: Source DPA4060>Chruch 9100>R09 (48kHz/24 bit) Lineage Card reader>Wavelab>Isotope RX>CDWave>FLAC.

Sound Quality: Very good (clean and highly enjoyable).

Set List:

1. Seed of Wonder
2. Whispering Light
3. Feast of the Heart
4. Four Dreams
5. Money
6. Angel Mom
7. The Kingdom
8. Phonograph
9. Moon Rock Needle
10. Out the Back Door
11. Tulip
12. Murder of Birds
13. (chat)
14. Hunting my Dress
15. (chat)
16. Enemy
17. Love and Love Again
18. Storm [off mic]

Website: Official Here.

Comments: There are FLAC, Ogg Vorbis and mp3 download files, along with the streaming material over at the Internet Archive (here).

Stream Below:

A Couple Of Good Ones: Murder Shoes - Rissy

Murder Shoes - Nineteeneightyone.

Bio - Sometimes, it really does boil down to who you know. Shortly after Derek Van Gieson first moved to Minneapolis, he met fellow guitarist Chris White through an ex-post-hardcore-punk pal. For a year or so, Derek and Chris stockpiled hundreds of songs. The songs ran the gamut of 60s pop/garage nuggets, gothic folk, chaotic post-punk, 80s funk and R&B, country/western, shoegaze, rockabilly, and surf. 

It could have been a real hot mess, but Derek brought Tess Weinberg in to the picture and she tied the whole thing together with her sultry cross-genre vocals. They further refined their sound as a trio and just when they thought they had it figured out, bassist Tim Heinlein and drummer Elliot Manthey brought the volume, power, and muscle. Inside of a year as a quintet, Murder Shoes recorded and released three EPs, a full length album, and went on tour. After many adventures in the studio and live, the band has refined the eclectic nature of their sound, which can now accurately be described as “Murder Shoesy.”

On November 6, Land Ski Records will release “Daydreaming,” the full-length debut from Minneapolis, MN indie rock band, Murder Shoes.

The band at times remind me of Blondie circa their first album, however that's just part of the story. There is a harder edge to the guitar driven music and vocals are if anything smoother, the band drift from post punk into surf rock, and plenty of other places. As debut albums go this is a solid collection of songs, the band have done themselves proud.

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Rissy - Sunset Raining.

Background words - It took barely 10 minutes to write the words and vocal melody, but two years of massaging and marshalling the various creative forces to turn ‘Sunset Raining’, a new electronic-pop tune by seasoned newcomer Rissy, into a reality.

“I arrived at the studio, listened to the track just once... and started writing madly,” says Rissy of her first acquaintance with the catchy creation from the genius duo L D R U and Yahtzel.

“I wrote the whole song within 10 minutes and we recorded it shortly after,” says Rissy. “It was a very natural, very easy process.” Sunset Raining is about crazy, blissful love. "Get high up on your platform baby" meaning, shine like you should.

Rissy’s strong, upbeat voice flows like honey over Carmada’s spiky electronic backdrop, thoughtful sound sculpting that works a treat. That was 2013. So why the delay in releasing the song? “There were a few entanglements that we needed to undo, and a couple of musical options that took time to explore. It had to be right for me.”

Rissy, slim and dark-haired, was determined not to compromise artistically. ”It wasn’t an easy time for an impatient soul. But I’m stoked with the result and that A&R Records is handling my first commercial label release.” The singer/songwriter from Sydney’s northern beaches crafts her electronic tunes of relentless optimism using a staple of compelling percussive sounds and engaging pop- driven melodies. “I usually start with hearing the chords and beats. That gives me the whole vibe of the song, which then writes the melody and lyrics.”

She has been collaborating with some of EDM's finest producers including Carmada (AUS), L D R U (AUS), Sam Roberts (AUS), Pretty Visitors (AUS) and Hotsauce (USA). “Sunset Raining” by Rissy will be released 30th of October 2015.

This is a really nice song. The gentle electro backing is just right and Rissy has a very distinctive and pleasing voice. It deserves to be heard.

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Sunday Alternative: Sin Cos Tan - ALXA - Jade The Moon - Sweet Mix Kids ft. Pikachunes

Sin Cos Tan - Ten Years (single from Smile Tomorrow Will Be Worse -EP).

Background - Finnish synthpop duo Sin Cos Tan shares new single ‘Ten Years’, a new EP is also set for a release in October. Synth-pop duo Sin Cos Tan have already three albums, a host of packed-out festival appearances and a big dose of musical experience. Finnish duo consists of 2 already established musicians: producer-DJ Jori Hulkkonen (who has previously put his magical producer hands on works also with Tiga, Pet Shop Boys´ Chris Lowe, Jose Gonzalez...) and Juho Paalosmaa, songwriter and vocalist also from Villa Nah who released one of the best albums of 2010 ‘Origin’. 
The Sin Cos Tan duo received huge international critical acclaim for their self-titled debut album and hit single “Trust” back in 2012, including a nomination for ‘Critics Choice of Album of The Year’ at the Finnish Emma-Awards. The boys chose not to rest on their laurels and released only 10 months later their successful follow-up album ‘Afterlife’ including hit single Limbo. Third album "Blown Away" was released fall 2014 with singles "Love Sees No Colour" and "Lifestyle" and "Heart Of America". 

From their self-titled debut album in 2012 onwards, Juho Paalosmaa and Jori Hulkkonen have established a classic partnership within the duo-format, great songwriting and cool synth sounds. With three critically acclaimed albums already out and new more clubby EP on the way, Sin Cos Tan is at the peak of their creative powers. No shortage of drama, intensity nor sheer pop perfection – this duo delivers.

'Ten Years' has a dance feel, that drifts into an atmospheric synth pop song, and keeps on developing, until the final note.

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ALXA - Let Go.

Background - With a wealth of material in many styles lined up for 2016, ALXA begins her musical journey with the single 'Let Go'  from the forthcoming ‘Lost E.P.’ a collection of electronic based tracks.

A voice, which at the tender age of 20 has already been compared to both Amy Winehouse and Adele could be both a blessing and a curse. Yet within the incredible voice of ALXA you get that sense of pain, and effortlessness that you got with Amy, plus a vocal range and power that hints at Adele but with a soulful, rhythm and blues undertone and inspiration. If there is a voice capable of trying to carry the burden of these lofty comparisons its surely ALXA’s. 

ALXA is a 20 year old singer/songwriter based in Islington, North London. She has been singing from a very young age, and from early on can remember being inspired by an eclectic range of jazz, opera, soul and house music. Describing her music in one word as ‘passionate’ ALXA bases her song writing on real life stories, different places and stages in her life. ALXA refers to her music and style as ‘human’, in other words she connects with the feelings and emotions of her listeners through the common medium of music.

ALXA has a remarkable voice and range, and she uses it to full effect on 'Let Go'. Comparisons there may be, however, she can clearly put her own mark on a song, another one of those that leaves me wanting to hear more.


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Jade The Moon  - U Take Care.

Background - The lyrics for "U Take Care" can actually be perceived in so many ways. This track was conceived after a 3 day Foals listening binge and recorded loosely into a voice note similar to our previous track. The track was built around the original voice note recording, which  actually makes several appearances on the final final production of the song.  At first listen 'U Take Care' may sound like a love song, but if you listen closely its got a mean streak….

We like to attempt to create honest music, letting the listeners in as to interact and guide us in our music creation.

We featured Jade The Moon a few months back, 'U Take Care' just seems to good to ignore. The soundtrack intrigues, the fine vocals contrast with their smoothness, even with a mean streak in the lyrics.

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Sweet Mix Kids ft. Pikachunes - The Whole World.

Background - Prominent New Zealand DJ group Sweet Mix Kids present their new single, The Whole World, featuring Wellington/Melbourne synth-pop prince Pikachunes. 'The Whole World' is a collaboration between Pikachunes and Sweet Mix Kids (Warner NZ). It's a genre mashing beast the guys recorded between NZ, Paris and LA late last year. Pikachunes is the indie pop musical project of Miles McDougall (i.e. Miles G. Loveless), a songwriter, musician and producer based in Wellington, New Zealand. Trained in jazz, for McDougall "a typical track features one or two synths, a 70's analog bass line, and a series of reverberated vocal harmonies, all driven by an atypical disco beat.".

He founded Pikachunes as a solo project in 2009, after a skateboarding incident left him with plates and pins in his arm. At the time he was studying Jazz Performance on drums and working towards a Bachelor of Music. While his arm healed McDougall turned to digital composition and production to keep himself occupied. According to McDougall, "The name came to me whilst I was in hospital under heavy amounts of morphine for pain. As cliche as it sounds I woke up with the name in my head and it stuck." In August 2015 McDougall signed with Sydney record label, Monday Records.

A great funky rhythm drives this song forward, with stand out vocals. Talking of which the repetitive lines almost become a musical instrument in themselves.

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Saturday Songs: August Wells - The Sea Birds - Angus C Crowley

August Wells - Come On In Out Of That Night.

Background Info - 'Come On In Out Of That Night' is the new single by August Wells and was released on September 4th on FIFA ('Forever In Financial Arrears') records.

A musical project formed in New York by Dublin native Ken Griffin (Rollerskate Skinny, Kid Silver and Favourite Sons) and New York pianist John Rauchenberger, August Wells teamed up with the Cork based independent label earlier this year for the release of the sumptuous 'Here In the Wild' single and that partnership continues for what is the perfect follow up.

 'Come On In Out Of That Night' once again has the deep lilt of Griffin's voice combined with the sound of Rauchenbergers piano arrangements, add to that Louis Schwadron (Radio Head & Grizzly Bear) and Griffins uplifting brass arrangements which are accented by fat choruses contrasting with the deep twisted vocal. The result is a an elegant three minutes of lustrous music tinged with melancholia yet bathed in hope offering a real slice of the alternative.

August Wells recently appeared on Ireland's RTE 2's 'Other Voices (excerpt attached) and have just completed an Irish in support of their forthcoming release. The are currently recording their second album which is due for release in Feb 2016.

This is to good to miss and I am grateful to Eddie at FIFA for bringing it to our attention. Everything about this song cries quality, superb vocals and music, and the vital ingredient - a passion for delivering great music.

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The Sea Birds - Am I Wasting My Time.

Background - The debut single 'Am I Wasting My Time' from Melbourne band The Sea Birds is a stunning glimpse into the beautifully crafted repertoire of this illustrious five-piece. The group began their musical voyage into the rich musical landscape of indie pop sound in late 2014. Comprised of dual lead vocalists Lara Wentworth and Loic Mamet and primary songwriter Mike Amarant, every member plays a part in the execution and production of ideas, including the rhythm section Lucas Wentworth and James Duplessis who have only very recently just joined the group.

The arrangements of Am I Wasting My Time draw heavily on the band’s love of indie pop. The sweetly gentle melodies with shades of alt country rock and nuanced guitar work pair flawlessly with the melancholic sentiments of the song’s lyrics. The outfit felt this track that captured the band’s ‘sweet but sad’ musical sensibility, embracing a ‘good earthy, no frill musical approach and is easily reproduced in a live setting.’

When writing songs band member Mike Amarant likes to get lost in his creation. “The great thing about writing songs is the endless artistic license and infinite exploration of ideas and music that you can bring to the process,” he says. Likewise, when crafting Am I Wasting my Time Mike wanted it to have a universal message that anyone who’s loved or been loved can relate to. “The song belongs to no- one and everyone,” he says. “It is easy to relate to the fragility and uncertainty that every new relationship brings. That is what is at the heart of the song.”

The track was recorded with David McCluney who has engineered and produced for a who’s who of independent Australian bands for more than three decades, including Skipping Girl Vinegar, Mick Harvey (The Bad Seeds, The Birthday Party) and Nick Cave. The band also enlisted the help from Tony Floyd (Black Sorrows, Gurrumul) for the single. The ensemble clicked and the recording was nailed quickly. The band’s approach to recording is all about being lean and purposeful when they hit the studio. “You can still be creative and have fun…but it costs a lot less to do this before you get to the studio,” says Mike. “Recording Am I Wasting My Time was a quick kill in the studio.”

The Sea Birds has evolved slowly but steadily, and they want to continue that evolution. Their strength lies in the cross-over potential to be many things due to the diversity of the group’s members and influences. Loic Mamet has moved over from Mauritius to further develop his musical style and vocal approach, Lara Wentworth comes from a broad chorale, music theatre and popular music background and Mike Amarant is the group’s chief songwriter and guitarist with a lot of ongoing ideas and completed pieces that he feeds through to the group.

'Am I Wasting My time' is an upbeat indie pop song, with a leaning towards alt country both musically and in the harmonies. The other four songs in this release, are a little gentler, and definitely have more of a alt country feel. As debut's go, this is a very good selection of songs, (website here).

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Angus C Crowley - October.

Background - Angus C-Crowley is an alt-folk poet with a head of soul and sweet harmony. An acoustic wordsmith constantly caught between two Pauls - Dempsey and Kelly - with Jeff Buckley and Evan Dando whispering into his ears. 

Angus C-Crowley has always seen music as a vehicle to share his poetry and a platform to explore his understanding of the world. Vocally and lyrically driven in the classic folk tradition, with the honest accompaniment of a guitar, ukulele or banjo, with each song he aims to strike the balance between aesthetics and substance and create a moment of pause with his audience.

‘October’ is a soulful acoustic drift that will slowly soak its way into your ear, from the 30th October, 2015. It is the debut release for Angus C-Crowley, who has been tinkering away at his melodies and harmonies for the past decade while lapping up the sunshine on the NSW Mid-North Coast.

‘October’ was originally conceived over 10 years ago while Angus C-Crowley was at university, recording with a friend in his parent’s garage. Revisited and refined this year for release under the guidance of producer Matt O’Connor from the A&R Department, the track displays a developing maturity in Angus C-Crowley’s sound while still retaining the honesty and simplicity of the original with stripped back instrumentation and smooth layered vocals.

The song explores the fickle nature of sleep and dreams, from the effortless highway nod to the evening struggle to ‘lead’ your mind to rest, and the general malaise born from the inevitable stocktaking of life as the year comes to an end. “It came together from a series of scattered thoughts on receipts and in sketchbooks over time, that I slowly weaved into a melody I had been toying with for a while.” – Angus C-Crowley.

'October' gives the impression that the singer is pondering and thinking, before singing each verse. This adds to the overall feeling of a personal song, and that we are allowed to share, some of the authors thoughts. Calmly delivered, both the stripped back feel, and engaging vocals, make for a fine song.

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Friday Five: Liphemra - Peru - Little Death - The Noted - Apothek.

Liphemra - 'did u cry'.

Background - Los Angeles based Liphemra (comprised of Liv Marsico, Trey Findley, Miles Gray, Chris Parise) have just dropped their first official release 'did u cry'. Both dark and hypnotising in it's repetition, the track manifest an aesthetic unrivalled by any other project coming out of LA right now.

"You break up... Never talk again. You just want to know if they cried." - Liv

'did u cry' teases an up-coming EP by the same name which is set for an early March release via LA-based label Future Gods.

A wonderfully powerful background sound, gives way to Liv Marsiso's emotionally charged vocals, that dance above the ever changing soundtrack. A real alternative that works so well.

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Peru (the band) - I Need You.

Background - Great music can take you places.  So, perhaps it’s appropriate that Peru the Band shares its name with one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.  The soul-infused indie group has brilliantly combined elements of classic Motown, jazz and blues to create a pleasingly unforgettable sound. 

Peru the Band is set to release their highly anticipated debut EP, Ordinary People, on December 14, 2015. “Ordinary People is an inviting and warm listen,” declares The Huffington Post, “often peppered with vintage-style horns and piano….with Motown touches abound.”

Over the past several months, Peru has generated notable buzz for their songs “I Need You,” “Forever” and “My Lady.”  Established by accident in 2014, Peru the Band is comprised of Long Island natives, Michael Desmond (vocals/guitar), Tom Costa (bass) and Jay Scalchunes (drums). All virtuosic musicians, the three began writing songs together while playing with other touring bands. And, the rest, as they say is history. 

Collectively, the members of Peru have toured with groups like Taking Back Sunday and Bayside, and have shared the stage with artists from One Republic, Hanson and Jacks Mannequin. Additionally, they’ve been showcased in festival line-ups for Warped Tour, Taste of Chaos, Bamboozle and others. 

Peru recorded Ordinary People with Dan Gluszak, drummer for Envy On The Coast and Times of Grace (Roadrunner Records) and Mike Watts of Vudu Studios (The Pixies, The Dear Hunter, As Tall As Lions, Brand New). Catch Peru the Band in New York at Pianos on December 1, and at Bowery Electric on December 8 and December 15.

Nice jangly guitars and rhythm, support the 'just as nice' vocals and harmonies, and then the horns take it to another level. This is one super cool band.

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Little Death - Hotel Tokyo.

Background - Perth’s Little Death are the brainchild of enigmatic singer-songwriter Ryan Carson and have already begun with a narrative that most musicians only dream of and even more spend their recording careers attempting to achieve.

After finding production inspiration in the critically acclaimed Placebo album ‘Meds’, Carson took a wild chance by sending his demos to the renowned producer behind ‘Meds’, Dimitri Tikovoi (Placebo, The Horrors). Wildly curious from what he heard, Tikovoi invited Carson to record his debut album with him in London. Now sitting on a completed body of work that was mixed by Neil Comber (30 Seconds To Mars) and engineered by Andrew Hughes (Florence and the Machine), the soft single ‘Valleys’ appeared in June but is now spearheaded by current single and flagship track ‘Hotel Tokyo’.

Just launched to a sweaty hometown reception at Amplifier Bar, ‘Hotel Tokyo’ showcases Carson’s love of dark guitar driven alt-rock with a keen pop sensibility that has seen the track start appearing on playlists around the country. Little Death are armed and almost ready to announce the release of an emotional and brutally honest album that intertwines the intricate and delicate nature of Carson’s lyrics with the brazen and uninhibited music he backs them with.

There's more than enough going on in this song to keep the listeners attention, as competing styles come together in a coherent manner, whether its just vocal over drums, or the full on onslaught of alt rock at it's finest.


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The Noted - Hello (from the album 'Not Far Away').

Background - The Noted is an original band based out of Portland, OR featuring Daniel Work (piano/keys/vocals/acoustic guitar/songwriter), Jeff Koch (electric guitar), Mike Snyder (drums/percussion), John Dwyer (bass/vocals) and Angela Baldino (vocals/percussion). 

Our music is most often compared to Collective Soul, The Fray, Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello, Train, Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac and many other amazing artists.

The band say 'Our music is diverse, highly original and great for the whole family'.

'Not Far Away' was produced, written and recorded, by the band. Vocals and harmonies really are quite something, and the variety within the songs very refreshing. 'Hello' is a good reflection of what musically, lays in store for the listener.


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Apothek - Family.

Background - Apothek is a child of its time. Though with any genetic dichotomy, this is one that spans generations. It embodies nostalgia and being part of tradition – an amalgam of parents, grandparents, siblings and cousins. Family, to be more precise…

Their genesis begins with debut single ‘Family’, and with it, a sound that could arguably only exist today. But beyond the cropped rhythms and synthetic symphonies, there’s a sense of classic melody that feels strangely inherent. Perhaps it stems from Apothek’s somewhat unlikely pairing; combining the freewheeling spontaneity of singer/songwriter Morten Myklebust with the more premeditative musings of producer Nils Martin Larsen. It’s a union of celebrated synthesis and one that straddles the divide between electronic and organic.

Lyrically speaking, ‘Family’ recites random states of consciousness – observing the dysfunctional, and at times destructive, quandary of family life. Stream the track below... Though still in their musical infancy, the Oslo-based duo sit alongside some of Norway’s finest, having collaborated with experimental jazz supergroup Jaga Jazzist and embarking their first ever live shows with pop wunderkind Susanne Sundfør.

Fresh from a buzzed (The Line Of Best Fit, Crack Magazine, Ja Ja Ja) and beyond-capacity showcase at Norway’s renowned Øya Festival, Apothek are once again invited to join Sundfør on tour; confirmed for a string of UK/EU dates this October/November.

'Family' is released today. The soundtrack commences in a gentle intriguing manner and vocals match the style and flow of the piece. Then a beautiful symphonic soundtrack sends the song soaring to a wonderful place before vocals take control again. Exceptional.

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Double Delights: $omeone feat Kite - Lydia Schubert

$omeone feat Kite - Hollow.

Those background words - When the music producer, $omeone, recently signed on Gotta Records, meets the sensitivity of the genius vocalist named Kite.

Kite is an award-winning Liverpool-based, Cumbrian-born songstress. Her debut EP ‘The Bed of The Brook’ was released in 2011 and led her on to play festivals such as Radio 1’s Big Weekend, Kendal Calling, Solfest and Ireby as well as gaining her a spot to play across the pond at Dewey Beach Music Conference in Delaware. Her first single ‘The Water’ was self-released in 2013 and has had extensive radio play including BBC Cumbria, BBC Merseyside and BBC Radio 2 as well as having been playlisted by BBC 6 Music’s Tom Robinson. Since her trip to the US in 2012 Kite has been working closely with Brooklyn-based collective Mason Jar Music (Feist, Wood Brothers, Josh Garrels, Alicia Keys).

Lot's of recognition and words of praise, already written for Kite here in the UK, and on the strength of this song, it's not hype, it's quality.


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Lydia Schubert - This Golden Hour.

The story so far - “I like to write songs that can read like stories.” 

Lydia Schubert was born in Perth during the eighties or nineties; depending on what mood she’s in and credits her musical prowess with a desire to tell stories. She is a mythologist and puts herself in the first person of the song. 

“But that doesn’t always mean the songs are about me” 

Lydia emerged from the dusty plains of Australia’s West, playing intimate venues in Fremantle and the surrounding locality to small and attentive audiences, where she cut her teeth as a contemporary poet/singer. She has developed an acute understanding of the ‘song’ form and its potential to articulate that which is buried deep in the soul, hidden beneath the small talk of the world. 

Lydia made her debut early on in the year with the single Jesse, a ballad about the gunslinger Jesse James, which earned radio play across the country. She now follows up with ‘This Golden Hour’, a song inspired by a dream and using the namesake of one of her favourite writers, Tennessee Williams.

This is a charming 'rootsy' song which gently builds as Lydia sings and a story unfolds. Simple as that? Quality often is.

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Another Genre Mix: Before The Flood - herMajesty - Still Parade

Before the Flood - I Can't Wait For You.

Background words - Before the Flood's 2nd LP (Hole in the Sky - 2015) is heavy on vocal harmonies, layered strings and deep percussion and bass. Electronic elements and synths add to the rich, and at other times ethereal soundscapes BTF creates through a long-awaited and eclectic 14 song journey. BTF's style and performances are constantly evolving but they continue to draw comparisons to Wilco, The Shins, The Weakerthans & Skydiggers.

Before the Flood formed in 2005, and the line-up has fluidly performed with between 4 and 7 members.  The backbone of the band has been strong, diverse song writing and rich, textured arrangements. Bars Wire and Wood (2008) had two singles (the title track & The Halls) that charted on college radio across Canada.

Over the last seven years BTF has been honing their craft performing through Southern Ontario - with 14 appearances at The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern (Toronto), 15 at The Moonshine Cafe (Oakville), regulars at NXNE and various summer festivals.

This is a solid album with songs that drift somewhere between folk, country rock and a few other places. All show off the bands well developed skills, and the featured track is a fine intro for those unfamiliar with BTF.

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herMajesty - My Body Your Mind.

Background - Art rock project herMajesty plans to self-release their new EP “My Body Your Mind” on November 4th and gig the north east in support throughout fall and winter. “My Body Your Mind” reflects an eclectic indie-glam sound that began with their July 2014 release “Crystals” featuring Fountains of Wayne guitarist Jody Porter’s psychedelic stamp. April’s Bowie-esque “Fashion Trance” followed  February’s “Days Turn to Nights.”
 
“My Body Your Mind” is the story of an immigrant son at a point in time where the experience of migration and dislocation and the desire to love and survive resonates in, and in spite of, the images from a 24-hour news cycle replete with negation, death, and pandering politicos. "My Body Your Mind” implies that the experience of emotional and physical trauma is grafted in memory and skin; that the fallout is, at once, fleeting and permanent, current and timeless, visceral and physical - like the song itself.

“My Body Your Mind” incorporates an ancient Middle Eastern instrument called the oud to amplify the immigrant son’s blues. The use of the oud and bouzouki flow in and out of the dramatic, mysterious wall of sound that integrates psych rock, new wave and world influences. herMajesty has been putting out music consistently since forming in NYC several years ago. They’ve shared the stage with acts like B-52s, Tom Tom Club, Boxer Rebellion, Say Hi To Your Mom, and received airplay on taste maker stations like KEXP-FM in Seattle and WFUV-FM in NYC.

herMajesty consists of JP (vocals, rhythm guitars, programming), David Leatherwood (guitars, backup vocals), Joan Chew (bass), Dov Manski (keyboards) and Konrad Meissner (drums, percussion). Keyboards on “Crystals” were handled by Dayle Raymond Jellyman.

Art Rock has become a crowded genre, it's one that has thrown up a few exciting artists, sadly there have been a few to many, pale imitations of Arcade Fire. herMajesty expand well outside the genre, and the featured track, shows off a talented band, with plenty of ideas of their own, and I feel comparisons with others would be an unfair distraction.


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Still Parade - Concrete Vision.

Background - Still Parade is the project and artistic expression of songwriter, producer Niklas Kramer. Kramer launched Still Parade with debut single 'Actors' on 20th May 2013 and for a long while his identity was clouded by secrecy and mystique. This decision was taken with a view to letting the music alone do the talking. And that it did. Following 'Actors', Kramer delivered extremely well received singles as well as the 'Fields' EP that saw Still Parade continue to build it's following online amongst the tastemakers of the blogosphere.

During this period between the end of 2013 and 2014 the identity of Still Parade's founder and driving creative force was gradually revealed as Niklas Kramer, a young producer and artist basing himself out of Germany's creative hub of Berlin. It also saw Still Parade begin to play festivals and headline shows across Europe in cities including London, Paris, Amsterdam as well as their home town of Berlin.

This period also saw Kramer become interested in experimenting with new recording techniques after receiving a tape recorder as a gift from his father. His previous output had all been recorded within fully equipped professional studios with experienced producers, resulting in a slick dream folk sound. However, only now was he realizing that he preferred the sound he was able to generate by himself within his own tiny Berlin apartment recording on that very tape machine.

Now armed with a collection of brand new songs Still Parade will be sure to leave behind the dream folk, yacht rock sound that became synonymous with Kramer's early output. His debut album self recorded and produced with the use of his tape machine, is set for release in 2016, and it's fair to say Kramer has successfully managed to harness influences from his all time heroes Todd Rundgren and Crosby, Stills & Nash.

I like this song. It is unpretentious, has an openly declared nod to his musical heroes, and yet has plenty of the artists own skills and ideas. As I said, I like it!

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Gussie Clarke - From The Foundation (Reggae Anthology)

Various Artists - Gussie Clarke - From The Foundation (Reggae Anthology).

Press Release - VP Records' vintage imprint 17 North Parade opens its vaults to present a new reggae anthology from one of the most influential Jamaican producers and businessmen Gussie Clarke. On Oct 9th, 2015, 17 North Parade will release a comprehensive double-disc compilation From The Foundation, spanning Gussie Clarke's catalogue of hit productions from the 1970s until today, accompanied with a DVD that takes an in-depth look of the man behind the controls. All the music is re-mastered and coupled with deluxe packaging and extensive liner notes. In addition, a vinyl companion piece (carrying the same name) will be available the following week (Oct 16) that features exclusive tracks not available on the CD and digital version.

In the early 1970s, Clarke's breakthrough success with deejay-style vocalists like Big Youth and I Roy put him at the forefront of the new rebel sound because he was able to blend this style with more instrumental records. The first portion of the anthology includes a previously unreleased version (featuring Big Youth) of Clarke's 1972 debut U-Roy's "The Higher The Mountain" plus a never-before-heard extended version of Dennis Brown & Lennie Hibbert's "To The Foundation."The set carries into more classics like Augustus Pablo's "No Entry," Hortense Ellis' "Unexpected Places" as well as the influential 1981 Mighty Diamond's hit "Pass the Kouchie." 

The second half of the collection delves into Clarke's productions during the late 1980s when he launched his own Music Works studio. This was around the same time when the digital reggae era began, so the studio was fully equipped and ready to adopt the new style, but was still able to maintain the traditional roots reggae sound with musicians recording live instrumentation. The Music Works label focused on this new digi-roots style, incorporating keyboard and computer programmed riddims. Gussie Clarke continued to gather some of the best songwriters, musicians, background singers, arrangers, engineers and mixers Jamaica had to offer. Standout tracks include Dennis Brown & Gregory Isaacs' massive radio hit "Big All Around," Home T, Cocoa Tea & Shabba Ranks' "Pirates Anthem," Gregory Isaacs' monumental 1988 summer smash "Rumours." The riddim of the latter track triggered more breakthrough hits like J.C. Lodge's iconic "Telephone Love." To an enthusiastic, who changed and accepted the reggae music market, Clark was always able to evolve to the times and remain one of the most consistent hit makers in the business.

He continued to pump out chart-topping radio bangers in the 1990s, including Deborahe Glasgow & Shabba Ranks "Mr. Loverman" as well as Shabba Ranks & Krystal's international hit "Twice My Age," both featured on this set. He has worked with an ensemble of reggae artists over the years including Daddy Rings, Sizzla and Mey Vidal, as seen on the last 3 tracks of the From The Foundation. Gussie Clarke's music legacy lives on as he influences much of the music today. The icon shares his works on this timeless Reggae Anthology and proves that real roots remain strong when they are from the foundation.

Gussie Clarke has produced so many reggae hits, including from Augustus Pablo, Big Youth, Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown,The Mighty Diamonds, Bunny Wailer,  J.C. Lodge, Shabba Ranks, Sizzla and many more. This compilation charts the story from the 1970's and the featured track is just a small hint of the various musical styles on the release. Reggae fans may already have some, or possibly, many of these tracks, however for those who have not, and who like the genre, this is a worthy contender, both to see how much Gussie has contributed to reggae, and the superb artists he has worked with down the years.

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Four 4U: Parlour Tricks - The Little Unsaid - Foreign Architects - Unnveig Aas

Parlour Tricks - Lovesongs.

Promo words - Parlour Tricks released a new Double A side single yesterday (5th October) – the two tracks ‘Lovesongs’ and ‘Requiem’ will be out on cool New York label Bar/ None Records. Catchy and charming ‘Lovesongs’ is an electro synth pop earworm - think dreamy Goldfrapp, complimenting ‘Requiem’ a beat heavy, rhythmic track that is layered with the mystical and airy vocals of Lily Cato.

The band are lead singer and songwriter Lily Cato, bassist and synth player Brian Kesley, drummer Terry Moore and guitarist Angelo Spagnolo, They met at college and first played together on a whim when Cato decided to try her hand at song writing. A few months later Cato asked Morgane Hollowell and Darah "DeeDee" Golub (also friends from college) to join when she realised that nearly every song she'd written was begging for three female voices. Influenced as much by the Andrews Sisters as she is by Vampire Weekend, Cato’s first few years of song writing kept the lyrical spotlight away from herself and instead found inspiration in other people’s stories, newspaper articles, and books. “I write a story for a song the same way you might write a story for a novel” says Cato.

Matching clothing and synchronised dance moves is as integral to a Parlour Tricks show as the music but its all about, making sure that everyone is having a blast both onstage and off is paramount to all six members.  ‘Village Voice’ named them 2014’s Best Pop Band in New York City, so it seems like a mission accomplished. The band recorded their forthcoming new album in Nashville working with producer Emery Dobyns (Patti Smith, Antony & The Johnsons, Noah and the Whale).  Dobyns played a key role in harnessing the band’s ever-evolving sound, allowing them to explore and experiment but creating cohesion within the ten tracks that ultimately ended up on the album due out in early 2016.

Two quite different songs from Parlour Tricks, the featured track is a synth pop wonder, with stand out vocals and harmonies, and a soundtrack that just hooked me in. Requiem is for me even better, both very good songs.

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The Little Unsaid - Can We Hear It?

Background - The Little Unsaid was stewed up in the badlands of West Yorkshire by multi-instrumentalist, producer, poet and songwriter John Elliott. After beginning as a solo project, The Little Unsaid has evolved into a growing community of touring musicians and producers blending folk, electronica, orchestral music and a meticulous song writing craft with John’s haunting, androgynous vocals.

Following on the heels of two well-received, crowd-funded albums, his third, Fisher King, is the result of traumatic personal crisis, reflected in the music’s genre-hopping complexity, lyrical honesty and moments of cathartic release. It was recorded over four weeks in a London basement, in the middle of Highgate Cemetery, in the steeple of a crumbling Islington church, and on a tiny island in the middle of the Celtic Sea.

The album was mixed by Graeme Stewart, long-time Radiohead engineer and producer of Jonny Greenwood’s solo work, which has included producing and mixing the music for Hollywood movies such as There Will Be Blood and The Master.

The songs on Fisher King are part-inspired by books that John became obsessed with during his self-imposed isolation in the hills of West Yorkshire in Winter 2014. These include Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov, Dante’s Inferno, The Death of Bunny Munro by Nick Cave, and The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot (a poem from which the album title was taken). The tone of these literary works correlated with John’s own explorations of the destructive nature of human desire and the loss of faith in the face of catastrophe, which has bled its way into all of the songs on the album.

The lead single 'Can We Hear It ?' was selected by Catherine Cunning Coco Media & Artist Management in collaboration with Mark Gardener of OX-4-Sound and front man of legendary Oxford band Ride, who also mixed the single during breaks from their recent world tour.

You know that moment when you hear an artist or band for the first time, and you stop doing anything, to concentrate and just take in the song. Well 'The Little Unsaid' did that very thing to me this afternoon. The featured track is just so imaginative and having listened to some other tracks this is for me, one very special collection of songs.

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Foreign Architects - Fall.

Background - Foreign Architects are about to release their second single for the year, ‘Fall’, on October 16th. Foreign Architects have had a massive 2015 so far, having supported ARIA Award winning Australian band Eskimo Joe before releasing their last single, ‘Clover’. The band continued to capitalise on this success, being selected to take part in the Singapore-WA Music Exchange, which saw the band perform at Beerfest Asia in Singapore, a festival attended by over 30,000 punters. 

Foreign Architects are a Perth based Indie-Pop duo made up of singer-songwriter Matt Burke and his drummer cousin, Andrew Barnett. With a huge sound combining a multitude of guitar and bass amps, layers of harmonies, the unforgettable songs and energy of their live show will leave you wondering how it was produced by only two people on stage.

Produced by Lance Robinson and A&R Department head Matt O’Connor, ‘Fall’ is a powerful alternative rock song with a driving beat, reminiscent of fellow Aussie bands Violent Soho and Grinspoon.

'Fall' doesn't waste time getting started and we are straight into a hook laden, indie rock song, with vocals that ride smooth, over a solid timeless musical piece.

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Unnveig Aas - Run.

Background  - Unnveig Aas has quickly become known as the small soft-spoken woman with the big sorrowful voice. 

Within a few years she has touched audiences in clubs, venues and festivals all over Norway, played support for Judy Collins, John Fullbright and Daniel Romano, and additionally performed for a sold-out festival tent in Bremen. Now comes the new material. EP released 9th of October.

As the promo is a little on the minimalist side, all I know at present is what is stated above. The song is absolutely charming, Unnveig has a beautiful voice and the music just carries her along. A country feel which leans a little towards Emmylou Harris on this track (see that as a massive compliment), I cannot wait to hear more.

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Sundays Alternative Take: Soothing, Grooving and Dancing

Tom Swoon Vs Ale Q & Sonny Noto - Alive.

Promo words - Released through Ultra Music on September 25th is ‘Alive’, the collaborative single from Tom Swoon, Ale Q & Sonny Noto. Producers/DJs Ale Q and Sonny Noto have gone head to head with Polish artist Swoon for this track, and the results are nothing short of epic.

A stirring piece of progressive house, the tune almost bubbles into action at the start before effortless vocals soak over the top of the bass line, and complementary piano twinkles add a further expressive edge. As the electro-edged beat really starts to take hold, there is another soulful intermission - before the power and intensity reaches a dance floor ready climax.

Actually the promo words are pretty much spot on. Progressive House fans will love this energised and driving song, the vocals if anything help calm the whole thing down, so we can pause for breath.

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The Flavr Blue feat. Jarell Perry - Oxygen.

Background - After a summer of major milestones, the Seattle­-based trio the Flavr Blue is about to deliver their most anticipated release yet: The L​ove Notes​ EP, a collection that marries the group's crackling energy with a soulful musical wisdom inherited from influences ranging from Cut Copy and Miike Snow to Feist and Sade.

The band's success is driven by the way its members — lead singer Hollis Wong­-Wear, whose voice graced the Billboard Top 20 hit "White Walls" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and singer/producers Lace Cadence and Parker Joe, each with a litany of Seattle hip ­hop and R&B releases under their belts — weave their voices and eclectic experimentalist within a rich electronic landscape. It’s been that way since the beginning, when they first built tracks in a half­ bedroom turned studio in Parker's Beacon Hill town house. It grew as they translated the sounds to wild live shows, for crowds both charmed and electrified by their combination of heartfelt soul and energetic electronica. Even Questlove tweeted his affection for the band’s live performance after watching their set at the Brooklyn Bowl. In celebration of the release of upcoming EP L​ove Notes, the Flavr Blue is releasing "Oxygen" (ft. Jarell Perry).

As 'bonus' songs go this is top quality. A mixture of electro and house sounds, and a mixture of fine vocals, make this a very good track.

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Exploding Clouds - Drive The Car.

Background - Hailing from Miami, Exploding Clouds is Michael Barksdale's synth-pop project. Exploding Clouds started as Barksdale's solo experimentation's back in 2010 as an alternative to his darker alter ego, Culture Prophet. After many years of performing and producing with other bands and aliases, he decided to revisit his previous work and bring it back to life. Exploding clouds is about positivity, gazing into the horizon, and looking beyond what the eye can see. 

The recently released nine track EP features beautiful electronic ambient songs reminiscent of Tycho, Com Truise, Washed Out and Caribou.

This is a pleasing track, the song flows beautifully, with vocals that are immersed in the mix and drift along with the gentle and soothing soundtrack.

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Stevie Wonder - Superstition (Lliam Taylor Remix).

Background words - Not many artists could re-imagine the music of a legend like Stevie Wonder and do justice to one of his hits, but 19-year-old west coast producer Lliam Taylor is up to the task. Following more mellow remixes of Defunk's "Saturday Night" and Craig David's "Fill Me In," Lliam's "Superstition" remix sees him taking a harder, more dance floor-friendly edge, with lush breakdowns balanced out by groovy bass lines over a thumping house drop. The instrumental complements Stevie's vocals beautifully, and instantly modernises the classic song.

Formerly known as Kezwik, Lliam Taylor has toured with Datsik and landed at #1 on the Beatport Dubstep chart. Never aiming to be pigeonholed in just one genre, Lliam has been broadening his sound to embrace other electronic styles and has set his sights on the world of house. A true musician through and through, Lliam aims, with every piece of music he writes, "to create a song that tells a story and makes you feel something from start to finish, whether it be intense feelings or just the need to dance".

Fair play to Lliam, this has taken the original song, successfully into another style or genre, and Stevie Wonder's voice comes across so distinctly, that it is even more 'stand out' than the original. As an old Tamla Motown fan, I was ready to rip this apart, instead I have to admit, it's a remarkable version.

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Mauro Picotto - The Whistle (Radio Edit).

Promo words - In October, Picotto will be releasing his ninth studio album From Heart To Techno on his own imprint Alchemy Records. The new album finds Mauro churning out what he does best: full throttle tech-house and techno built for sweaty dance floors. Ahead of the full release of his album, Mauro has channelled his inner jazz-man for the albums first single The Whistle, which is available for free download to wet your appetite. The track features jazzy pianos, funky vibes, and, of course, a whistle-along melody as jackin percussion propels the song along to euphoric grooviness.

This just puts a smile on my face. Everything about 'The Whistle' is just so bright and fun filled. Dance floors will be in for a punishing, as soon as this one plays.

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