Genre Wander: Meredith - Day Of The Dead - Vanessa Forero - Tuff Slang

Meredith - How Could You Believe That.

Background promo - Brisbane indiefolk/pop chanteuse Meredith is making her return to the scene in the form of sinister synth-laden slow burner 'How Could You Believe That'.

The single is a twinkling yet unsettling exploration of how a toxic relationship can affect not only the sufferer themselves, but also those closest to them. 

Meredith's aptitude for catchy, opulent production earned her high praise when her debut single 'Jumpin Beds' was released in 2014. Her most recent single 'Levels' has amassed 200k+ plays on Spotify - making into the UK viral 50 - was played on triple j, and the pastel-tinged accompanying clip was added to rotation on rage. All this attention led to a bevy of enviable support slots with artists such as Machine Age, Avaberee, Timberworlf & The Once (CAN) - and she'll be supporting San Cisco at their upcoming sold out Brisbane show.

With an EP release looming large on the horizon, a new video on the way for 'How Could You Believe That', and a brand new live show with a deeper focus on electronica, you'd absolutely better believe that Meredith is destined for incredible things.

Cool, calm and sultry 'How Could You Believe That' builds and develops, with both emotive vocals and synth's in what is, a fine electronic pop song. It's moody with 'late night' vibes and emotional power.

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Day Of The Dead - Heartbreak Island.

Background promo - Day Of The Dead is an instrumental 3-piece band that formed in 2005. Taking the haunting tremolo sounds of vintage spy movies, and the twisted feel of spaghetti western soundtracks, Day Of The Dead infuse modern energy into a Frankenstein monster of surf-guitar fury. These guys sound straight out of a Tarantino film not yet seen.

The band was formed by Ben Frichot, the creative force behind instrumental hard case outfit, Storytime. Frichot is a WAM! “Guitar Player of the Year” winner and has been creating instrumental guitar music for over 20 years. During his career he has featured on numerous surf movie soundtracks for Billabong, Rip Curl and Rusty, and performed with artists such as Dick Dale, The Cruel Sea, Suicidal Tendencies, The Fireballs, The Mark of Cain, Midnight Oil and many others.

In 2006 The Dead released their debut album, Killer Sounds From the Midnight Highway. They followed up in 2008 with Kill or be Killed their strongest work to date. This album was engineered by Adam Spark from Birds of Tokyo and features guest violinist Alex Archer from The Kill Devil Hills.

In 2010 the band recorded and released Damned if You Do a 5 track EP, and featured on a string of tours with artists including The Living End, Green Day, Shihad, Motorhead, Calexico, and Briand Setzer’s Rockabilly Riot.

Since then, DOTD have released two new sets of tunes in early 2016, the first being 5 tracks recorded and proceeded by Shihad legend, Tom Larkin at his Studios in the City, Melbourne. “Dead If You Don’t” is a more aggressive take on the surf garage genre and features some amazing tones and cinema*c overtures.

The latest release is "Heartbreak Island" EP. This release truly captures the band at their absolute best and is the most “epic” sound scape the band have produced to date. This release includes a title track written by Frichot and guest vocalist, West Coast Rockabilly legend, Caleb Merry. "Heartbreak Island" EP by Day Of The Dead will be released 8th of April 2016.

'Heartbreak Island' is one of five tracks on what is a really addictive EP. With nods in many directions from Dick Dale to The Shadows, this is a wonderfully hook laden collection of mini musical masterpieces. That the band are talented is an understatement!


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Vanessa Forero - Heaven Knows.

Background promo - British/Colombian singer-songwriter Vanessa Forero is set to release her self-produced EP on March 28th, a collection of 5 songs which came from a place best described by the EP title 'From The Uproar'. Forero is a skilled multi-instrumentalist as well as a producer, composer, arranger and vocalist. After being selected in 2015 by Brit Award Singer-Songwriter Beth Orton to write and perform at her UK show, Forero decided to become her own artist and record her own songs in her distinctive Indie/Folk style with Latino influences.

For her debut EP, Forero recorded and played a lot of native Latin instruments herself, and even sings the evocative bonus track 'Anhela' in Spanish. Her sound is a reminder of her roots and has been greatly inspired by her time spent in Colombia. Forero was first introduced to a whole new music scene whilst filming National Geographic's feature documentary 'Woman Raised by Monkeys', a film based on the bestselling book on her mother's extraordinary life 'The Girl With No Name', a book that she co-wrote herself.

Vanessa Forero has recently revealed the underwater-themed video for her new single 'Same Boat'. This new track is guaranteed to plant a smile across your face and have you hum in no time. So do not hesitate to embark on a journey across the choppy seas to get to know Vanessa's unique world.

The first of five songs from the EP (From The Uproar) the featured track 'Heaven Knows' is indicative of the quality and intelligence that underscores a beautiful folk orientated collection of music. The songs blend different genres around the core folk roots, nothing is over done and as a result we are left with a sincere collection of melodic and delightful numbers.

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Tuff Slang - Nothing All The Time.

Background words from the band - The mission starting Tuff Slang was to create a hook driven rock band that walks the line between southern twang, rhythm & soul. Our first single is rolling out today, it's called 'Nothing All The Time'...

Nothing All The Time is the first track that we wrote during our earliest rehearsals. It made us realize the sound that we were chasing together and paved the way for each song written after. High energy, and a chorus that catches your attention while paying tribute to our influences.
We've all come from different bands (Secret Colours, Dirty Rotten Sunshine, A Lull) and knew that this effort had to combine something that we each hold close in terms of influence. We drafted up song after song until we hit the mark on what it was that captured each of our personalities in the music.

Our hope with Tuff Slang is that we never see the need to sugar coat what we do. We'd much prefer to let the infectious rock that we create speak for itself.

It's meant for getting those hips shakin' and whistling along with. And we hope that's what you find yourself doing! - (Aaron Vincel, Cody Messick and Justin Frederick).

There is a meaty, punchy feel to the song as it opens. It feels unpretentious, something I would expect from a band desiring to have some 'southern twang' in their sound. It has to be played loud for full effect, however the effect is good and your ears are worth it....

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American Music Club - Live At Canes 2005 (IA).

From the Internet Archive this is American Music Club (AMC) Live at Canes, Mission Beach (San Diego), CA, on the 18th November 2005. AMC were opening for Spoon and this was the last show of the tour. As one commentator put it - AMC opening for Spoon? That ain't right. And it sounds like some of those Spooners weren't bothering to hide their disdain, as evidenced by Mr. Eitzel's comment after the first song, "You don't have to like it; I don't care." Despite the audience, this is a great set with lots of stuff from AMC's then new album, including a high-energy performance of "Home."

A little about AMC - Their 1985 debut, The Restless Stranger, is widely considered as the first slowcore release, establishing the band as major pioneers of slowcore and an early influence on post-rock. It was later followed by 1987's Engine which saw record producer Tom Mallon as a full-time member. American Music Club earned a solid cult following on the strength of 1988's California. Their next LP, 1989's United Kingdom, appeared only in the nation which lent the record its name and consisted of new material, some of which was recorded live at the Hotel Utah in San Francisco.

In 1991 American Music Club emerged with the record that is widely considered their masterpiece, Everclear. Critical acclaim attracted the attention of several major labels. Rolling Stone called it the Album of the Year and named Eitzel Songwriter of the Year for 1991. Eventually, AMC now consisting of Eitzel, Vudi, Pearson, multi-instrumentalist Bruce Kaphan and drummer Tim Mooney signed with Reprise in the US and Virgin throughout the rest of the world.

The band reformed in 2004 with this gig forming part of the process of the band re-establishing themselves.

Recording Details: Source AT831 > SP-SPSC-1 batt. box (w/ bass rolloff set @ 107 Hz) > Nomad Jukebox 3 (wav @ 44.1k) Lineage NJ3 > USB > Sound Forge 6.0 > WAV > FLAC (flac front end, compression level 6)

Sound Quality: High quality audience.

Set List:

Intro
Why Won't You Stay
Home
Heart & Soul
Only Love Can Set You Free
Another Morning
Outside This Bar
If I Had A Hammer
Challenger
Patriot's Heart
Sick Of Food.

Comments: This recording is available for download on the Internet Archive in FLAC, MP3 and OGG VORBIS formats HERE.

Band Official Website: HERE.

Stream Below:

A Good Four More: Twin Haus - Street Chant - Verge Collection - San Mei

Twin Haus - I Used To Think.

Background words - Recently signed to Brisbane indie label, Bedlam Records, Twin Haus now look to their fourth successful national run this April, bringing an energetic and mesmerising live show to stages around Australia.

The band’s diverse brand of psychedelic and ambient rock has recently seen them perform in support of acts such as; Tonstartssbandht (USA), Viet Cong (CAN), Dune Rats, Millions, Gang of Youths, Tijuana Cartel and The Medics, to name a few.

2015 saw them headline Brisbane’s renowned Psych Night, perform at Port Macquarie’s Festival of the Sun, as well their most recent single ‘I Used to Think’ premiered on Rolling Stone Australia which continues to receive attention nation-wide from the likes of Triple J, FBi, Triple R, PBS Melbourne and 4ZZZ.

The band’s awaited follow up EP ‘Nothing Lavish' recorded by Steve Kempnich and produced by ARIA award-winning producer Tim G Carr, is scheduled for full release March 2016.

One of four songs on the EP 'I Used To Think' has also gained a lot of attention as a single. The band drift across genres and styles that loosely can be described as Psych orientated. The featured song gives a glimpse of the diversity in sound and also the potential of this band. I will leave you to decide on any comparisons, however the creativity alone deserves full credit, as does the beauty in their sounds.

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Street Chant - Insides.

Background promo - In a post-internet era of short attention spans and jarring sonic changeability, the consistent tone and content of Auckland three-piece Street Chant is as refreshing as their songs are unsettling. Following a half-decade that’s seen them tour internationally in support of bands as acclaimed as The Lemonheads, The Dead Weather and The 3Ds, as well as multiple trips to SXSW, CMJ and Big Sound, the very-long- awaited release of second full-length Hauora on iconic New Zealand indie Flying Nun finds the band picking up where their lauded, New Zealand Music Award-winning debut Means (2010, Arch Hill) left off.

Set to be released on 1 April 2016, Hauora is a compact, energised and complex set of songs plumbing the intriguing depths of the Urban New Zealand Condition in the early 21st century. From the Saturday night booze binges of Sink to the petty shared-house bleakness of Pedestrian Support League, the album explores in sardonic humour and hook-laden melodies the highs and woes of creative life in Auckland City.

Street Chant’s Hauora is to be released 1st April 2016 on Flying Nun. The band are on tour in New Zealand through April and have more international dates planned for later 2016. 

'Insides' is the new single from the soon to be released 'Hauora'. The album has eleven songs of which the single shows off the punkier side of the band. There is more depth to the album, but also plenty of high energy, in your face numbers. Lively and incredibly pleasing, if you like the single, grab the album.

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Verge Collection - Class Of '09.

Background promo - "Wasn't high school hard?" Verge Collection tackle spoilt brats, the transition from adolescence to adulthood and the class divide in new single 'Class of 09'.

Following their quintessentially Aussie debut 'Our Place' - which received heavy airplay on triple j and became somewhat of a suburban summer anthem - these gents from Perth have earnt plenty of mates for their matter-of-fact lyrics and dole-wave sound.

2016 is already looking massive for Verge Collection, with some big shows on the horizon including festival slots at Groovin' The Moo and RTR FM's In The Pines, plus upcoming supports with Cold War Kids, Skeggs and plenty more soon to be announced.

'Class of 09' is the new single from the band's forthcoming debut EP Open Plan Living, scheduled for release mid-year along with national touring to follow. In the meantime, Perth & Sydneysiders can get on board the hype train for a handful of April shows.

Live Dates:
Apr 07 - Marlborough Hotel, Sydney w/ special guests
Apr 08 - World Bar, Sydney w/ special guests
Apr 09 - Captain Cook Hotel, Sydney w/ Pat Chow
Apr 13 - Mojos, Fremantle w/ Skegss
Apr 14 - 459 Bar, Perth w/ Skegss
Apr 23 - The Bird, Perth w/ Hip Priest
Apr 24 - RTR FM In The Pines, University of WA
May 07 - Groovin' The Moo, Bunbury

The newly released single 'Class Of' '09' has plenty of indie folk & rock vibes to it. Delivery is superb, there is an informal and relaxed feel and melodic hooks that dig right in!

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San Mei - Revel.

Background promo - Gold Coast based artist San Mei is set to release her new single 'Revel' April 22nd.

2014 and 2015 saw San Mei (Emily Hamilton) garner both international and local praise with her debut singles 'Wars' and 'Brighter' from taste makers NME, Indie Shuffle and Nylon Magazine tipping her as an artist to watch.

San Mei returns with 'Revel' produced by Emily and Sean Cook, (Babaganouj, Jungle Giants), and mastered by Ben Feggans (Rüfüs, Ngairre, Willow Beats, The Kite String Tangle and Dustin Tebbutt) showcasing her lush melodies, and progression beyond the bedroom and into the studio. Revel evokes the progressive-pop of Little Dragon and Ladyhawke with the guitar saunter of Mac De Marco.

'Revel' has layers of beautiful music and dreamy vocals. Atmospheric and melodic, it demonstrates just how good pop music still can be.

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Saturday Double: Joana Serrat - Jon Meadows

Joana Serrat - Tug Of War.

Background promo - Talking about Tug Of War Serrat says; "Tug of War is a song that talks about the people of my generation that once followed all the paths we were told to walk. We did obey, believing in what we've been told. At the end of this road we were supposed to find the good life and all that we end up seeing is a death land. We are going to be the first generation that won't surpass our parents."

Cross The Verge, just as its name promises, shows us another side of Joana Serrat, who so enchanted audiences on her 2014 album Dear Great Canyon. On Cross The Verge, her third album, Joana lays bare all the cracks, inconsistencies and fears that come with life, with the album revealing itself to be an especially beautiful tribute to the acknowledgement of loss and the acceptance of the uncertain.

To record this album, Joana Serrat travelled from her home in Vic, near Barcelona, to Montreal, Canada to team up with producer Howard Bilerman (Arcade Fire, The Barr Brothers) in his analogue studio, The Hotel2Tango. In the recording process Joana was joined by the likes of Gavin Gardiner (The Wooden Sky), Aaron Goldstein (Daniel Romano, City & Colour, Cowboy Junkies) and the acclaimed Canadian auto harpist and vocalist Basia Bulat. Elsewhere, Neil Halstead (Slowdive, Mojave 3) and Ryan Boldt (The Deep Dark Woods) joined Joana in two duets from two different approaches; the shimmering pop of Cloudy Heart and the wrought Americana of Black Lake.

Howard Bilerman’s approach results in Cross The Verge feeling like a natural progression and a show of real maturity. Her ability to never waste a lyric or syllable where something need be said and never miss an opportunity to breathe life into a song’s darker corners, illustrates her creative growth. Cross The Verge is a beguiling collection of songs that move with great ease between the precious evanescence of Lonely Heart Reverb, Oh, Winter Come or Flags, and the vigorous guitar sound that predominates in Desert Valley, Tug of War, and the moving Black Lake. There’s elegance in the trotting Americana rhythms of Saskatoon (Break of Dawn), I Follow You, Child and the crystalline Cloudy Heart.

This year sees a return to Primavera Sound Festival for Joana, with the festival’s El Segell del Primavera label releasing the album in Spain. Loose were quick to sign her up for the rest of the world, thereby providing Joana with her dream home for her unique talents.

'Tug Of War' opens with a rich musical texture, ideal for Joana's absorbing vocals. The songs fairly brutal message is delivered with warmth, and a sense of need to get the point over. It also suggests we are in for a real treat with her third album.

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Jon Meadows - Mojo Rising.

Background promo - From the home of innovative pop music - Nub Music - comes the New EP from self taught, Indie Rocker Jon Meadows – ‘Hymns’. Fresh from achieving a top ten album in 2015 award, Jon Meadows bridges the gap between albums with an EP of biblical proportions; 'Hymns' explodes with the anthem '1234' and reignites track after track. Standout track Mojo Rising has the grit and hard edged sound expected from Meadows whilst 'Mirror Sidewalk' shows a songwriting craft is being mastered. 

Jon Meadows released his debut album 'Escape' on Nub Country Records on the back of the success of the raw and powerfully melodic single ‘Days Like These’. Voted on of the Top 10 Albums of 2015 by the renowned reviewer Mike Koehler; From the Kasabian sounding 'Pirates and Cowgirls' to the typically Liverpudlian sounding 'Break Me In Again' and the epic ‘Velvet Sky’, this album leaves you with hooks and melodies that you will be humming day after day.

Drawing inspiration from Kurt Cobain and Elliot Smith to Josh Homme and Lee Mavers, Jon effortlessly blends styles together to complete an entertaining and promising debut. Jon has been playing guitar since the age of 15 and decided at the age of 30 to start writing songs. 3 years later he has a catalogue of over 50 songs, receiving airplay on a multitude of radio shows.  Totally self taught on the guitar, drums and bass, Jon has a passion for creating soundtracks to people’s lives and memories.

This is one feisty EP. 'Mojo Rising' typifies the raw potent power that makes every track demand some attention. It's indie rock with a 'hard edge' to borrow the expression in the promo above. The other four tracks on the EP are no less passionate, albeit one called 'Mirror Sidewalk' allows you to catch your breath and suggests that Jon has a lot more to his musical creativity.

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Another Genre Wander: Step Rockets - Gris-de-Lin - CeaseTone

Step Rockets - West Coast.

Background bio - It didn't take long for Step Rockets to take off. Their self-released single “Kisser”found its way to #1 on the Hype Machine charts just two weeks after its release despite virtually no publicity. The track has since garnered over 5.5 million plays on Spotify and catapulted the band onto the international music scene. With appearances at Firefly Festival, Summerfest, SXSW, CMJ, Canadian Music Week and a slew of other festivals and major venues across North America, Step Rockets have developed a reputation as one of the most exciting new live bands on the scene, seamlessly blending wailing guitar solos and anthemic melodies with infectious dance grooves. Step Rockets continue to push the boundaries of indie pop with unique instrumentation and progressive song writing. The band's music has been featured in TV shows and commercials, including placements in Showtime's Shameless and ABC's Cougartown.

Their music exemplifies a cosmic divergence of the past, present and future, focused around memorable melodies and powerful lyrics. The band has released a collection of popular singles including "Kisser" and“Turning Tides (By Your Side)” –as well as remixes and videos –that all lead up to their highly anticipated debut EP, Future Nature, scheduled for an early April 2016 release (on Harbour/Caroline).  Step Rockets will be on tour this spring in support of the new EP and the first single, “West Coast”.

To say that Step Rockets are on a lot of peoples radar would be a pretty big understatement. So apologies that this is my first listen to the band, but there you go. Musically 'West Coast reminds me of Duran Duran (at their best), I guess it's the upbeat nature and power of the song. It's the sort of song UK top forty radio would benefit from, if they were not seemingly always targeting the under teen age group (how about where you live?).

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Gris-de-Lin - The Kick.

Background promo - Gris-de-Lin's music combines elements of post-rock, blues and alt-folk, peppered with twisted electronics.?? 'The Kick' is Gris' first solo project and was recorded in a nursery school in Dorset where she worked with producer Cee (aka Chris Hamilton). His recent credits have included the acclaimed album by American artist Torres as well as new material by Savages off-shoot Kite Base.?? Gris also collaborated on the EP's title track with producer Clyma, previously of The Infadels.

‘The Kick’ started out as a musical improvisation combining a rugby report from the local newspaper, home-made music samples and experimentation with different instruments. In addition to Cee and Clyma's involvement, Rob Ellis (Anna Calvi/PJ Harvey producer/collaborator) played drums on ‘Fireworks Begin’.

Two tracks from the EP ‘Your Ghost’ & ‘Birthday’ will be released on hand screen-printed 7” yellow vinyl on 1st April. The 7” vinyl will include digital downloads for the whole EP. The song ‘Birthday’ is also being featured on a vinyl compilation for Record Store Day that has been curated by Radio 1 DJ Alice Levine and will be given away in Richer Sounds stores throughout the UK.

Gris-de-Lin is currently touring with Bronzerat artist Joe Gideon and drummer Jim Sclavunos (Grinderman, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Sonic Youth) promoting Joe Gideon’s new album Versa Vice. The tour runs from 15th – 30th March nationwide and follows their recent live session for Marc Riley on BBC 6 Music.

Regular visitors here, may have noted that the occasional 'alternative' song strikes home in a big way. 'The Kick is one of four songs on the EP and it's one of four songs that have really got under my skin.

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CeaseTone - The Bright Side.

Background promo - Four piece Icelandic electro-rock band will have you simply addicted to each and every one of their songs.  With mesmerising vocals, soft synths and playful guitar strums, Ceasetone packs the floor with fans who never stop dancing.  

Their single “Full CIrcle,” released in September of 2015, hit the national radio’s top charts along with the band winning All Tomorrow’s Parties festivals “Unsigned Talent Competition.” Ceastone’s fresh sounds continue to lure fans in quicker then ever and 2016 is the year to ride the waves with them.

This is a really nice song. 'The Bright Side' is full of beautiful vocals, combining with a melodic and rich musical soundtrack. It's a case of please just listen.

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Genre Wander: Robert Nix - James Edge And The Mindstep - Missing Sibling - Jake Meadows

Robert Nix - Won't Go With The Flow'.

Background promo - Robert Nix is largely recognized as an innovative alternative artist, incorporating alternative, postpunksynth, new wave, pop, classical and progressive rock into his songs and appealing to the 'intelligent alternative music fan'.

With his unique songwriting style, musical approach and distinctive haunting voice Nix stands out from the rest of the crowd.

"Once in a Blue Moon", Robert's latest release, is his 5th. The album reveals an artist dedicated to recording his own brand of song. Nix handles all aspects of the album's writing, performance and production.

OK the album was released back in January, so late to the party again! However it's such a good LP that a quick mention seems only fair. The featured song gives a hint of what's in store, expect a lot more.
 
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James Edge And The Mindstep - On A Red Horse.

About James Edge and the Mindstep - "I want to change the way people think about acoustic music and start redefining what it can be. I am pleased to have found, in Folkstock Records, a label brave enough to take on the challenge of releasing something as unusual and abrasive as On A Red Horse".

James Edge is already a studious musical maestro and a top drawer composer. The Kent-raised musician studied composition to master’s degree level under Joe Duddell - arranger for the likes of Elbow and New Order. After moving to London and starting to gig in 2006, he formed James Edge and the Mindstep to record 2010 debut album ‘In The Hills, The Cities’. The working relationships he built around this time would provide him with some dependable collaborators, including regular engineer and occasional co-producer Tom Aitkenhead, best known for his work with Laura Marling and Bloc Party. A core jazz-folk trio of Edge, double bassist Andy Waterworth and drummer Avvon Chambers materialised. Together the trio started recording second album ‘Machines He Made’ over a five day period tracking everything live and only overdubbing the backing vocals. The songs were largely unrehearsed, with band members and additional session players mostly having not heard the pieces before. This spontaneous hodgepodge has resulted in some of the most whimsical and deeply experimental music to come out of the capital in a while. The eerie acoustics of Nick Drake inform the atmospherics of much of James’s songwriting, but his sheer compositional nous - which draws on aspects of jazz, modern classical music and punk rock and roll - elevates songs like ‘On A Red Horse’ to a place far above any glib and generic categorisation. He is closer to a modern day Zappa, channelling his eccentric art through folk arrangements to create something deeply surprising, raw, and unnerving.

The On A Red Horse EP is released 15th April 2016 on Folkstock Records. An award winning independent label, they have achieved over 20 plays on BBC Radio 2, 3 and 6 Music over the last year, receiving positive Sunday Times reviews for their compilations and charting albums in The Telegraphs's Top Folk Albums of the Year for 2014 and 2015.

There is real nervous energy etched into this song. Chamber music meets folk music via all manner of directions and yet some how the whole thing ends up in a coherent and really good song.

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Missing Sibling - Mary's Rashers.

Background bio - Missing Sibling is a five-piece indie rock band from North Texas known for melodic, guitar-driven rock songs that are anthemic and sometimes melancholic, but always meant to be played loud. Their sound has been described as “a less grumpy Pixies” and like “Sleater-Kinney meets Bruce Hornsby.”

After spending 2015 playing regional shows to promote their 2015 EP, Commiserate, Missing Sibling will be expanding to national and international touring in support of their self-titled debut album, which will be out on Idol Records in April 2016.

Members: Drew Gabbert (lead vocals, guitar), Todd Walker (vocals, bass), Steph Buchanan (vocals, guitar), Kevin Buchanan (synth), Josh Hoover (drums).

There's a robust feel of  "this is our way of playing, so get over it" as Missing Sibling rip their way through 'Mary's Rashers' a song that demands the volume is notched up for your complete attention. It's a gutsy no nonsense rock'n'roll piece and it works!

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Jake Meadows - Echo Of Tomorrow (feat. Daniel Johns).

Background - Sydney artist Jake Meadows has a new track that features Daniel Johns who collaborated with him on his upcoming EP. Echo of Tomorrow is Meadows' debut single was released on March 11th

Echo of Tomorrow is a clear and honest portrait of the artist’s imprint. With Daniel Johns as an honoured collaborator, Meadows has created a modern marriage of true analog and electronic

His signature sound has been built from years of experimenting with modern electronic techniques, classical harp and rich harmonious layers has featured as part of John’s recent shows as well as with Angus & Julia Stone, Eves The Behaviour, Paul Max, Thelma Plum and many other  Australian artists.

'Echo Of Tomorrow' has layers of calming sounds and a real atmospheric feel. Vocals are a perfect fit for the music, whilst the rhythmic beat ensures the whole piece flows just right.

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L Is For An Australian Double Play: Little Coyote - Lama

Little Coyote - Neverending.

Background promo - Emerging from the sands of Sydney’s Northern Beaches, alternative-pop-rockers Little Coyote have been playing venues since their first live show at Upstairs Beresford mid-2014.

Combining thumping beats (Anto Dinh, drums) and funky resonance (Gareth Bussey, bass), with a vintage-feel 6-string twanging fluidity (Matt Coates, guitar) and powerful, rich poetics by (Judd English, vocals), Little Coyote has ripened into an ability to create quality alt- rock music with an honest lyrical content.

Their debut EP Howl was quoted as having “a healthy dose of rock that has just about the perfect amount of attitude" [Ted Rogan, The Equal Ground]. Neverending will be the lead track on Little Coyote’s second EP scheduled for release in early 2016. Written by Judd English and Anto Dinh. Neverending was recorded and mixed by Wade Keighran at Linear Studios in Leichhardt, Sydney and mastered by Steve Fallon at Sterling Studios in NYC.

Their recent show highlights included monthly residencies at The Steyne Hotel’s Moonshine for May & August 2015 including supporting The Hinds (as part of their International Tour) and headlining Next Wave Youth Concert at Manly Jazz Festival; headlining the Cancer Council’s Relay for Life charity fundraising event, and a plethora of shows across Sydney including gigs at Oxford Art Factory, The Standard, Narrabeen Sands, Spectrum, World Bar, Mona Vale Hotel, The Newtown Townie, Brighton Up Bar, Manly Food & Wine Festival and Newport Festival. Catch them live when you can. “Neverending” by Little Coyote will be released 25th of March 2016.

The opening drumbeats lead into both soaring guitar play and the distinctive vocals of Judd English. The 'alt rock' swagger is notable as 'Neverending' builds into a fine rock number.

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Lama - Wolf.

Background promo - Lama are the enigmatic 7-piece originating from Melbourne (AUS), whose unorthodox line-up dips its toe in the orchestral pool. Pitting a flute, trumpet and violin against a killer rhythm section, underneath some powerful bearded vocals, the result is exactly what you’d expect: nothing like what you’d expect. 

The new and revamped line-up is fast becoming known around the traps for their vivacious and colourful live show.

Their explosive set has proven to be acquiescent to the festival stage, with a number of Australian appearances under their belt including Strawberry Fields, Folk Rhythm and Life, Cool Summer and Brunswick Music Festival. Sporting a jazzy, psychedelic glam-rock set of tunes, Lama pack a certain whimsical absurdity as well as a punch. 

Lead singer Dave Adams takes the audience with songs of loss, anarchistic rants and psychedelic adventures - whether it be the plight of a French burlesque dancer (a fugitive from death) or an obscure primary school tale of disappearing into the grass... 

The lead single to be lifted from the bands upcoming debut album is “Wolf”, a tongue-in-cheek and candid song that, well, struts. Delving into some facetious social commentary, the themes are not to be taken too seriously. 

“‘Wolf’ started off as a political rant...now it’s just a rant” – Dave Adams (singer) The track showcases some filthy guitar riffs, punchy horns and a ballsy vocal performance, with a cheeky Hammond organ solo that comes out of nowhere. 

“Wolf” was produced by Jonathan Dreyfus (French Ave Studios) and recorded with Craig Harnath (Hot House Studios) and Nick Herrera (The Grove Studios), mixed by Craig Harnath and mastered by Tony “Jack the Bear” Mantz (Deluxe Mastering). Artwork by Sebastian White. “Wolf” by Lama will be released 8th of April 2016.

Upcoming Shows 
Sat 9th April @ The Retreat Hotel, Brunswick, VIC 
Fri 15th April @ The B.East, Brunswick, VIC
Fri 13th May @ Bar Open, Fitzroy VIC 

Lama unleash uncompromising full on, powerful rock and more, with the song 'Wolf'. The song skips genres as it develops, the power is refined by the mix of vocals and instruments, it's a cool track.

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Quality Not Quantity: Andy Shauf - Joon Moon - Jenny Gillespie

Andy Shauf - The Magician.

Background promo - On May 20th, Anti- is excited to release an immensely imaginative work from acclaimed young singer-songwriter Andy Shauf called The Party.

The Saskatchewan-based Shauf recorded his first album at home and toured Western Canada playing DIY punk venues with an acoustic guitar. In 2015 he gained attention with a an album called The Bearer of Bad News that NPR called one of “2015's most breathtaking albums” and “an appropriately titled collection of mostly grim tales about small town drug addicts, murderous lovers and other weary underachievers.”

With The Party, Shauf masterfully creates a cast of memorable and unique characters. They show up “Early to the Party,” reveal secrets (“To You”) or try to reveal nothing (“The Magician.”) In “a city the size of a dinner plate,” everyone knew the guy who keeled over after smoking what he promised would be his last pack of cigarettes (“Alexander All Alone.”) There’s the girl dancing by herself in the middle of the room, with the “Eyes of Them All” upon her. One moment you’re dancing with someone who bears an uncanny resemblance to your ex (“Martha Sways,”) and later slagging your best friend as way of endearing yourself to his recently dumped ex (“Quite Like You”).

All of this is set to ornate arrangements of fuzzed-out guitars, string sections, clarinets and dreamy synths, all draped over delicate piano, acoustic guitars and rainy-day drums. The Party is not exactly a concept record, but it was a way for the singer-songwriter to get out of his own head. An after-party record, more like it. Or for the hangover the next day, when only Shauf’s songs can make any sense of the emotionally-charged scenarios that played out the night before.

When The Party was over, Shauf had no regrets—even if its characters have more than a few. You’re invited to The Party. It’s one you’ll never forget. Andy Shauf will be touring extensively in Europe in the next few months. He is set to open for The Lumineers on their highly anticipated European tour this April and May. He will also be doing headlining shows and festivals, including the Primavera festival in Barcelona (ES). 

'The Magician' is getting a lot of attention, which is hardly surprising as it's such a wonderful song. A foretaste of the 'The Party' album due out in May, it's really nice when a song gets you excited and in anticipation of what's to follow.

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Joon Moon - Call Me (Radio Edit).

Background promo - Joon Moon's story started in 2014 in Montmartre, Paris, in the studio of the excessively discreet Julien Decoret - with Phoebe Killdeer giving breath to his first lyric sheets. The indefatigable Moon's aim was to continue creating, after touring with Nouvelle Vague, Florent Marchet etc, and start his own project.

Joon Moon have announced their upcoming EP Call Me coming out March 25, 2016 on Kwaidan Records / !K7.  With the announcement they shared the title track of their EP along with US tour dates, see below.

With all the creative decisions already made for keyboards, vocals and drums, Julien joined up with his pals Raphael Chassin and Sébastien Trouvé for both the studio recording and stage show that they had already collectively imagined. In early 2015, thanks to chance encounters and other musically-minded friends like Marc Collin and Hugh Coltman, Julien Decoret met another artist with an impressive live show (and someone just as reserved as he is) - Krystle Warren, born in Kansas City and recently arrived in France.

The four had mutual friends, and after a few try-outs in the studio and a misunderstanding about a certain Alice / Juliette Lewis (a story that makes them all laugh even today) a real synergy came to pass, with Joon Moon the result - both in the studio and on stage.

Their first EP Chess, released late 2015, showcases a mix of precise and impressive pop and soul arrangements, hinting that the album due in 2016 will be an exciting discovery, joyfully crashing through numerous musical barriers. A word of warning though - the siren-like voice of Krystle Warren may have you addicted to Joon Moon before you know it!

The song 'Call Me' gently starts out with delicate keyboards and beautiful vocals. It then builds into a really fine piece with the various instruments all adding an extra dimension.

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Jenny Gillespie - Dhyana By The River.

Background promo - Jenny Gillespie returns with her new single 'Dhyana By The River', ahead of the UK release of Cure For Dreaming.

Cure for Dreaming was recorded in autumn 2015 in Los Angeles, CA. Featuring musicians such as Paul Bryan (Aimee Mann,) drummer Jay Bellerose (Robert Plant and Allison Krauss’ Raising Sand), guitarist Chris Bruce (Meshell Ndgeocello,), guitarist Gerry Leonard (David Bowie) and pedal steel player Greg Leisz (Lucinda Williams, Bon Iver), the album blends an earnest folk sensibility with experimental flavourings of progressive jazz and sunny R&B-flavoured pop - think Minnie Riperton, Fairport Convention, and Shuggie Otis.

The songs span a variety of landscapes, from a warm Venice boardwalk with its “chakra hucksters” to a woman’s solitary, spiritual rebirth on the banks of an East Coast river in “Dhyana by the River" while themes of motherhood, marriage, spirituality and dying enter into the music through the medium of playful and conversational language. Characters weave in and out of the songs - such as the brooding loner drawn to the masculine expressions of his ancestry of “Part Potawatomi”, or the cheerful artist facing death in “Last Mystery Train.”, and the music itself is loose, warm, and memorable, pulling off an undercurrent of occasional instrumental and melodic wildness not often found in modern day pop.

'Dhyana By The River' showcases Jenny's definitive vocals right from the start. The song twists and turns as the music keeps things coherent underscoring what is quite a remarkable piece.

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Martin Tillman - Superhuman (New Album)

Martin Tillman - Notes Towards The Universe.

Background words - More than any other form of art, music transports us from the physical plane to a realm of reflection, dreams and excitement. Yet at the same time, we find ourselves swaying to the melody, if not dancing wildly to its rhythms. Such is the power of listening to Martin Tillman’s “Superhuman” a soundtrack for the composer’s upbeat imagination that rocks with his sense of stylistic and technological exploration, while jetting down to the EDM Earth his tunes encourage us to leap from. Mind and body are one as Tillman elevates body and soul in “Superhuman,” lighting a stylistic path with his distinctive fusion of music and movement.
  
As a world-renowned cellist whose distinctive playing can be heard on such scores as “Black Hawk Down,” “The Ring” and “Batman Trilogy,” Tillman’s equally distinguished career on the concert stage has drawn a number of renowned players to this ambitious project, among them guitarists Michael Landau (Michael Jackson, Joni Mitchell) Davey Johnstone (Elton John), Graham Russell (Air Supply),  drummer Vinnie Colaiuta ( Sting, Frank Zappa), Bassist Leeland Sklar ( James Taylor, Phil Collins),  vocalist Dee Lewis (Peter Gabriel, Jamiroquai) , Toto keyboardist David Paich and the  “City of Prague Symphony”.  All contribute to the rhythmically expansive, cello-topped sound of “Superhuman,” its eleven, stylistically diverse tracks made all the more cinematic by movie score mixer Jeff Biggers. “Because he has this tremendous experience on epic films, Jeff’s talent allowed me to treat ‘Superhuman’ as a soundtrack for the audience in a way that goes beyond incorporating EDM and rock and roll into my themes,” Tillman says.

Tillman hears “Superhuman” as an album that will unlock listeners’ own imaginations, in much the same way that the composer has transformed adversity into the thematically soaring, encompassing optimism of “Superhuman.” “Music lets us dream a different existence, and make it our own,” Tillman concludes. “It’s that spirit that’s now let me find a new, powerful way to express myself with ‘Superhuman.’”

Composed, produced, performed and arranged by Martin Tillman
Guest musicians:  Dee Lewis Clay vocals, Davey Johnstone guitars, Michael Landau: guitars, Graham Russell acoustic guitar, Vinnie Colaiuta drums, Leland Sklar bass guitar, David Page keyboards, William V. Malpede piano, Michele Balduzzi and Daniele Pianigiani sound design, Christopher Healings:  remix ”Involuntary Midnights”, Aaron Steinberg guitar, Angel Roche Jr. percussion,  “Involuntary Midnights” “Seint Nicolas was borne in the citee of Patras"  performed by Anonymous 4, courtesy of Harmoni Mundi USA.
Strings orchestrated by William V. Malpede
Orchestra recorded by City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra
Executive producer Russell Emanuel 
Mixing by Jeff Biggers
Mastered by Nick Cooke at Extreme Music
Engineered by Steve Genewick, Joerg Huettner, Adam Schmidt

'Superhuman' is an aural delight. If you are a fan of music by the likes of Vangelis, Jean Michel Jarre, and anything remotely like them, then put simply, you really should own a copy of this album. The featured song gives a small taste of what's in store on this diverse and expansive album. Production is wonderful across eleven inspiring tracks, it's a case of Hi-Fidelity heaven.


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Genre Wander: Sex on Toast - Laurel - Animal Noise

Sex on Toast - Doubt.

Background promo - Following the cult success of recent single 'Oh Loretta!' & a knockout performance at Bigsound 2015, Melbourne 10-piece Sex On Toast are about to drop their new EP 'Ready', heralded by the release of new single & video for 'Doubt'. They'll also be hitting the road soon, with a Sydney show & NZ dates just announced.

There really, really isn't anyone quite like the formidably talented, performatively irrepressible 10-piece that is Sex On Toast. They're fervidly dedicated to their craft. They're unconditionally vivacious. They're virtuosos of the tongue-in-cheek. And they're 'Ready' to unleash the goods once more.

It's a rare band that has the savvy to successfully combine retro production, tight 70s/60s inspired instrumentation, and lyrical commentary that bites harder than your Aunt's rabid chihuahua. And you'll want to listen again. But Sex On Toast aren't content to leave it at that. Outrageous videos are fast becoming a band trademark - as anyone who's seen the clip for 'Oh Loretta!', featuring Molly Meldrum, can attest. The Tanzer-directed video for 'Doubt', with its use of soft-focus lens, Caddyshack-inspired mise en scene, and screwball exploration of male bravado, is every bit as waggish & winking as you'd expect.

'Ready' is the first EP but second release for Sex On Toast, who put out their self-titled debut LP in 2014. Produced by the band's front man Angus Leslie, the EP is a triumph of sleek pop, driven by the band's uncontainable effervescence.

Dates:
Wednesday, March 16 | 'Doubt' Residency @ The Gasometer, Melbourne w/ The Scrimshaw Four & Ayawatamaya
Wednesday, March 23 | 'Doubt' Residency @ The Gasometer, Melbourne w/ Frida & Dx-Heaven
Thursday, March 24 | Yot Club, Raglan NZ
Friday, March 25 | Waiheke International Jazz Festival, NZ
Saturday, March 26 | Coastella International Music Festival, NZ
Sunday, March 27 | The National Jazz Festival, Tauranga, NZ
Wednesday, March 30 | 'Doubt' Residency @ The Gasometer, Melbourne w/ Au Dre & 777 - 93 - 11
Thursday, April 21 | 'Ready' EP Launch @ Newtown Social Club w/ The Cactus Channel.

'Doubt' is my introduction to the band and boy am I pleased to hear them. The ten piece bands production is superb, vocals and music are well mixed (you get to hear all elements clearly) and the sheer energy, fun and bravado is infectious.

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Laurel - Life Worth Living.

Background promo - Southampton-raised, 21 year old London-based singer, songwriter and producer Laurel Arnell-Cullen has today revealed her brand new song ‘Life Worth Living’ from the forthcoming Theia Recordings release, after time away concentrating on producing her debut album.

‘Life Worth Living’ was solely written, recorded, produced and performed by Laurel in her East London bedroom based studio.  It follow’s two EPs, ‘To The Hills’ and ‘Holy Water’ and the release of single Blue Blood, which Laurel released in the summer last year.   She posted the song several years earlier on Soundcloud as an unknown teenager, which spiked huge industry and blog interest.

Laurel has been busy touring and playing numerous UK festivals including, The Great Escape, Dot to Dot, Bestival, and Radio 1’s Big Weekend.  Laurel also played her first U.S shows at The Troubadour in LA, KCRW’s “School Night” in LA & New York, Northside Festival in New York and NXNE in Toronto.

With a debut album scheduled for late 2016, ‘Life Worth Living’ further enhances Laurel’s position as a phenomenal new talent, mixing strong hook based electronic production with striking yet touching song writing and powerfully enchanting vocals.

This is a really fine song. 'Life Worth Living' has real heart and soul. The song's production reminds me, in part, of First Aid Kit, however I emphasis only in part, and as a massive fan of their music, please see that as the compliment it is meant to be.

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Animal Noise - Sink Or Swim.

Background promo - When Animal Noise self-released their debut album ‘Run Loose’ in 2012, they quickly went from playing in their rehearsal studio, an old cowshed on bass player Birdy’s farm, to the stages of Bestival & T in The Park.

Through extensive support from BBC Suffolk's Introducing show, Animal Noise caught the attention of BBC Radio 1, receiving airplay from Greg James, Huw Stephens, Sara Cox and Scott Mills. BBC 6 Music’s Tom Robinson was also a big fan, recording a session with the band for his show. This widespread national radio support and subsequent festival appearances have meant Animal Noise have built a large following across their home county of East Anglia, and now they’re looking to reach further afield.

Working with producer Tom Donovan, the band have been crafting songs to follow up 2012’s ‘Run Loose’. The first tracks to come from these sessions will be found on their Sink Or Swim EP which will be released on limited edition vinyl as part of Record Store Day.

The lead single ‘Sink Or Swim’ will be released on the 8th April, upfront of the EP on 15th April. The band describe the track as having “a bouncing staggered riff that flips from aggression to reflection. The song runs with a recurring theme of water and helplessness, relating to plaguing negative thoughts and anxieties about taking risks, a fear of jumping into the deep end of something new and different which scares a lot of people…"

The EP includes the tracks 'Bag of Bones' and 'Alright', which have already gained momentum through extensive BBC introducing support. A compelling blend of strong melody and intricate structure, Animal Noise are as innovative as they are exciting.

Clearly rehearsing in a cowshed on a farm in East Anglia is conducive to developing great music. 'Sink Or Swim' is the first of four songs on the EP and it's one of four really good tracks. With almost anxious levels of energy the bands passion comes through in every song. It's no surprise they are already registering considerable interest and attention.

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Friday Three: Wolfie - Gillian Nicola - Wolf Girl

Wolfie - New Horizons.

Background promo - Wolfie is the artist name for Lisa McNaughton, a Blue Mountains multi-instrumentalist and singer songwriter. Her music can only be described as an eclectic smash up of roots, grunge, folk and African rhythms which has crossed over from her love of African dancing. Wolfie is all about rhythm, big drums and driving guitar, something you can move to as Lisa says.

Wolfie started out as a solo artist Lisalive. As Lisalive, Lisa won the blue Mountains singer songwriting competition in 2008, which then led to her releasing her debut EP Roots. She played The Falls Festival in 2009, hit no. 3 on the Triple J Unearthed Roots charts and toured New Zealand and the east coast of NSW and Victoria.

Wolfie is her new project and you can listen to one of her dirtier songs “Talking to Myself” on triple j unearthed. Having played shows with the likes of the Jeff Mar/n, Sarah McLeod, Chase the Sun, Lachey Doley and Abbe Dobson amongst other renowned artists, Wolfie has enjoyed sharing the stage with some amazing muso’s already in her young career.

“‘New Horizons’ is a story of my struggle with mild depression, loss of identity and trying to figure out how to exist on this planet basically! A lot of people particularly young people struggle with this once or more during a lifetime and it’s so hard to get yourself out of it. The black dog can come to visit anyone at any time and the more awareness and clearing of the haze and taboo surrounding conversation about it the better,” says Lisa of her new single.

While Wolfie does write the guitar and lyrics she has help from her partner and drummer Sam McClain and their ever changing bassist who at the moment is Steve Stockton. For “New Horizons” she has also recruited the talents of west African style drummers Dom Hanly and John May of ‘Hands Heart and Feet’,  “New Horizons” was recorded in the Blue Mountains in our bass player’s studio, just a couple great mics, tie dyed curtains and a great vibe, magic!  “New Horizons” by WOLFIE will be released 25th of March 2016.

With deep bass drums and a thumping beat 'New Horizons' is a funky piece. Lisa brings even more to the party with her powerful and melodic vocals.

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Gillian Nicola - Oh Marie.

Background words from Gillian - My first single, “Oh Marie” draws directly on the idea that we often find it hard to call anyone or any place home. I've presented the story of a character who seemingly has everything she needs in life, but still has a sense of emptiness. Marie abandons it all for a new life – something that so many have dreamed of, but few have the courage to pull off. 'Oh Marie’ is just as much about questioning how she could go through with her actions as it is about envying them. While at times it may be "pretty", 'No Place to Call' is anything but that: it is charged with emotion, grit and vulnerability.

In late 2015, I headed into Catherine North Studios to work with producer Dan Hosh (Whitehorse, City & Colour, Rose Cousins) on my sophomore EP, 'No Place to Call'. Mastered by Elliott Brood’s Stephen Pitkin, the five-song EP is a move to a sound that I feel more fully defines me as an artist. The full EP will be released this Spring!

'Oh Marie' is a modern folk song with rich vocals and excellent musicianship. As the song builds the hooks got under my skin, what a charming song.

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Wolf Girl - Deep Sea Diver (from 'We Tried').

Background promo - Wolf Girl are Becky, Chris, Carl and Christabel - a garage pop four-piece based in South London with a shared propensity for long walks on the beach, guitars that look like Cadillac's and feral teenagers. Having met each other through being in awkward teenage bands in the South East, they eventually formed in September 2013.

Their debut EP ‘Mama’s Boy’ was released on limited edition cassette on Soft Power Records (who have also been the first home to the likes of Witching Waves, The Spook School and September Girls) in November 2014, and stays true to the poppy energy of their frenetic live shows. With admirable authenticity, they record and rehearse in an old garage called Bucket East that backs onto the river Wandle, staying faithful to their garage-rock tendencies. It’s been said that they both do and don’t sound like the Ramones, and have also been compared to both the Shop Assistants and Bratmobile.

Wolf Girl have their own trademarks though, offering a spirited take on powerful, melodic and jagged indie pop that often recalls the noisier aspects of C86.

Forthcoming live dates:
Mar 24 DIY Space For London - London, UK – Album launch show with Chorusgirl, Dirtygirl and Camp Shy.
Mar 26 Glad Café -  Glasgow, UK
Mar 27 Henry's Cellar Bar =Edinburgh, UK.

'Deep Sea Diver' is the sixth of nine songs on the new album. Released on 25th March 2016 'We Tried' is a collection of garage and punk pop, with the emphasis on highly upbeat and enjoyable pop tunes. It's unpretentious high energy music, which mixes male and female lead vocals, and it is brilliant!

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Genre Mix: Sophie Lowe - Fragile Creatures - Jaggery

Sophie Lowe - Breathe.

Background promo - After high triple j rotation of her first single 'Understand' and the seductive follow up 'Pink Flowers', Sophie Lowe returns unveiling her vulnerability in her latest track 'Breathe’.

Taken from her 'EP 2', 'Breathe' sees Sophie expose her inner thoughts about life, love and confidence, in turn creating this powerful, provoking electronica jam.

Sophie said, "I wrote 'Breathe' at a time in my life when I struggling to feel comfortable within myself and my surroundings. I wanted to talk about anxiety with this song because I feel its not talked about enough."

Sophie has launched into 2016; soon to be starring in the film ‘Waiting for the Miracle to Come' co-starring Willie Nelson and Academy Award nominee Charlotte Rampling, starring in Flume’s latest film clip alongside the man himself for 'Never Be Like You ft. Kai’ and she was recently named by Italian Vogue as one of the ‘Australian’s to watch’ in 2016.

The actress/songwriter was also recently featured in a full page Rolling Stone Australia editorial as well as being named 'One of their favourite artists of 2015’. Her videos for 'Understand’ and 'Pink Flowers' were added to rotation on rage, MTV Australia and Channel V.

In 2015 Sophie went from strength to strength supporting sold out shows across Australia with Meg Mac and Montaigne. Sophie Lowe has her sights set on 2016 working with new and exciting collaborators; Sophie Lowe is not a name to be forgotten.

'Breathe' has a simple but quite hypnotic rhythm, that works really well with Sophie's vocals. The song feels personal, there is enough emotion to draw the listener in, without overwhelming them.

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Fragile Creatures - Stowaways.

Background promo words - Fragile Creatures are a rock band from Brighton on a mission to restore Britain's reputation for original guitar music. Combining the very best of classic American and British pop and rock into beautifully crafted songs that will move you to the dance-floor and stick in your head. They are about to release their debut album ...And Other Wild things, the first release from new label Brightonsfinest Presents, due March 18th 2016.

Band names can sometimes mean nothing, or come across as very silly. Or be so all-embracing that they too lose all meaning. Everything Everything? TV On The Radio? Vampire Weekend, anyone? Then you get something like Fragile Creatures which is a neat encapsulation of humans. Well, as neat as you can get within the limitations of a bands name. But it nearly didn't happen for this Brighton -based five piece: "There was a guy called Dave, who was investing in us and he said you should call yourselves Fragile Creatures, right from the off," remembers Adam Kidd, lead singer and guitarist. "We all said 'no'," Adam laughs at the memory of it, "Then a couple of months later I said halfway through a rehearsal: 'Guys! Got a great idea for the band name! Why don't we call ourselves Fragile Creatures?!" Indeed, such is the human way with appropriation and rights... But, whoever deserves the credit, there is no denying it is a great name for a band, surely that all but the most egotistical of us can relate to.

OK so the song 'Stowaways' has been around a while and has already made a very positive impression on a good many people. It's a fine song and gives an indication of what's in store for us, on the forthcoming new album. Each of the dozen songs lives up to the bands aspirations, it's upbeat, lively and very pleasing.

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Jaggery - Garden. (From the album Crux).

Background promo - Operatic ululations shiver above hand-hits on a wood box drum. A clamorous breakdown dwindles to a time-tick and a whisper. The latest offering from Boston band Jaggery — who’ve been creating entirely unique, genre-defying art rock for over a decade — begins ("War Cry") and ends ("Nijinky's Diaries") with extremes. Dramatic explorations of the dark corners of the human condition lead into the album's heart: the stripped-down title track "Crux," a chamber pop meditation on the confusing, beautiful mess of existence. Jaggery’s third full-length album is a swirl of storm clouds surrounding a quiet, contemplative eye.

Crux marks Jaggery’s first collaboration with co-producer and engineer Jon Evans (who has worked with Tori Amos, Chris Cornell of Soundgarden, and Sarah MacLachlan, among others). Jon’s treatment has the band sounding better than we’ve ever heard them before. Singer Mali Sastri’s acrobatic whispers and wails are at once forceful and ethereal, often heard through the distinct sound of a copperphone mic. Drummers Daniel Schubmehl and Dylan Jack’s intricate, jazz-based rhythms pop and sizzle with clarity and articulation. Tony Leva’s dexterous upright and electric basses snap and rumble. Rachel Jayson’s avant-classical viola dances, sings, and scratches, always with elegance. And Petaluma Vale’s Celtic harp glistens and shimmers with thoughtful, well-placed accents.

Jaggery formed in New York in 2004, and relocated to Boston in 2008, where their live shows often include visual artists, storytellers, dancers, and aerialists. The band’s interest in aesthetic cross-pollination is evident on Crux. Four songs came out of a collaboration (Ten Paintings/Ten Songs) between Mali and painter/theater director Steven Bogart (“War Cry,” “Garden,” “Icy,” “Venus in Transit”). The alternately smooth and jagged track “This Way That Way” was commissioned as part of a song cycle for a Leonardo da Vinci exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston in the spring of 2015. The agitated “Raskolnikov” is an ode to Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment protagonist. And the lyrics of the album’s climactic closer “Nijinsky’s Diaries” are taken from the journals of the eponymous ballet dancer of the early 20th century, who inadvertently documented his own descent into schizophrenia.

Jaggery’s unconventional sound has consistently eluded easy genre classification. “Restless chamber pop,” “avant rock,” and “darkwave jazz” have all been proposed. Whatever label you choose, this amalgam of piano, viola, harp, bass, percussion, and what boston.com calls the “mercurial majesty” of Mali’s voice holds its own ground and speaks for itself. Crux immediately clarifies a recurring tendency of Jaggery’s music: it’s not there to placate crowds. Jaggery challenges listeners: through subject matter, instrumental arrangements, and the visceral power of a voice with zero qualms about exploring the full spectrum of uttered human expression. With arresting skill, sui generis originality, and unnerving beauty, this album cuts to the crux.

I first heard some of Jaggery's music two or three years ago. Their genre defying sound never fails to impress me. They experiment, test boundaries, and yet never come across as indulgent. 'Garden' is but a small taste of what to expect on the album. It's music as art, or possibly art as music!

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