Down Under Double: Self Talk - Mellie

Self Talk - Hypocrite.

Background promo - Freshly forged by members of Melbourne's finest including Ceres and Skyways are Highways, buzzy rockers Self Talk are set to drop their brand new single 'Hypocrite'; a bonafide pop-punk anthem.

Having spent 2015 writing and evolving their own unique sound, the band released their first two singles to fantastic critique, as well as developing their live-legs supporting punk legends such as Luca Brasi, Ceres and Endless Heights. Grabbing 2016 by the horns, ST took to the studio with acclaimed producer Aaron Dobos (British India, Slow Turismo) to track their debut EP 'Seeing What I Want to See' a bright and punchy yet vulnerable and sensitive record.

The first taste of this comes in 'Hypocrite', catchy as hell and buzzing with energy, the song also has a darker edge woven in via the lyrics. Inspired by the internal struggle experienced at the end of a difficult relationship, lead singer Stacey reflects upon being blinded by emotion until hindsight helps the truth become clear down the track.

'Hypocrite' mixes indie pop with a touch of punk, in an energetic and very catchy way. Vocally the song reminded me a little of The Bangles, only with a little more edge, no problem with that, it's a good song and good songs are always welcome.

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Mellie - Reach Out For You.

Background promo - Announcing the release of the debut single “Reach Out for You” from Aussie singer/songwriter Mellie on April 8th 2016. Written by Mellie and produced by Matt Fell, of Love Hz studios, “Reach Out for You” is an uplifting pop song with a clear message about asking for help in a time of crisis.

After spending many years healing from severe clinical depression, Mellie wanted to give back to the organisatoon who helped her in her time of crisis. Fifty percent of profits from her debut single are going to the charity organisation Lifeline Hunter Central Coast.

“Reach Out for You” incorporates powerful lyrics with a catchy melody. It has the sweetness of Kylie Minogue and the epic power of Tina Arena and Delta Goodrem. “Reach Out for You” is written about a darker subject matter but it’s written in an accessible, melodic way so every listener can feel inspired by the song. The music video has been produced with the help of indie film makers Harlow Films and dance choreographer Jenna Drelincourt. The music video involved a cast of around 15 actors and dancers to help portray the feelings of mental illness and the impact it has on one's life.

"The theme of the song is reflected in the music video. We used darkness to portray the battle of mental illness and light to portray the journey back to vitality. The song really is about finding light in the darkness—knowing you're not alone in depression and reaching out to be heard in your time of crisis", explains Mellie. “‘Reach Out for You’ is my message that is letting people know you can survive mental illness and there are people and organisations such as Lifeline who are there to help you through.”

Mellie is performing at many Lifeline Hunter Central Coast events throughout 2016 to help raise awareness of mental health. “Reach Out For You” by Mellie will be released 8th of April 2016.

Having read the above promo I was expecting something quite different regarding the song 'Reach Out For You'. Put simply what I hear is a really sincere pop song. Full of charm, melody, and a mass of hooks, all of which underscore Mellie's superb vocal range. 2016 is throwing up some really good down to earth pop songs, of which this is definately one.

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Midweek Quality: Georgia Reed - RonjoV

Georgia Reed - Waiting For You To Run.

Background promo - Perth’s Georgia Reed gives us her debut single ‘Waiting For You To Run’.

Drawing influence from leading female vocalists in the industry, Georgia creates her fierce and brooding signature sound, a cross between the likes of The Jezabels, Florence & The Machine and Lana Del Rey. She is no stranger to her city, having an extensive live music apprenticeship of Perth’s bars and basements, and in 2015 adorning billboards around WA as a face of The Bigger Picture Campaign.

Produced by James Newhouse at Reel2Real Studios and Mastered by Grammy Award Winner William Bowden at King Willy Sound (Gotye, Little May, Empire Of The Sun, Children Collide), ‘Waiting For You To Run’ tells the story of a relationship’s looming demise, a story intensified by the emerging artists vocals.

Waiting For You To Run is about two people denying the inevitable end of a relationship. It’s like they say, when you say it out loud it becomes real. They are both waiting on each other to run.” Waiting For You To Run by Georgia Reed will be released 8th of April 2016.

Upcoming Shows:
22nd April 2016 - The Odd Fellow, Fremantle WA

Comparisons can be made, so it's refreshing when an artist cites a couple of influences and upon listening, they are both relevant and fair. Funnily enough I thought of a totally different artist when I first listened to 'Waiting For You To Run' who in my book, is even better than the ones mentioned in the promo (and yes it's all down to personal taste). Anyway, this is one very good song and Georgia Reed has really made it fly, a case of wanting to hear more, which is always positive.

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RonjoV - Ronjoism.

Background promo & bio - Ronjo V’s new album is a eclectic, haunting yet stoic examination of the world. The music is a down home flavor of classic alternative; mix in the production skills that would make even the most experienced producers listen over and over again to learn their secrets and you have Ronjo V.

So who is the mysterious Ronjo V? The artist is actually composed of two compassionate yet laid back men residing in notorious Austin, Texas. Ryan Joseph and Keith Morgan have been musical partners in crime since their college years in Arkansas. Driven by the shared dream of living their lives in the studio creating music, the two relocated to Austin and opened 5th Street Studios.

Now the two are focused on developing the sound of Ronjo V and we can definitely hear this in their latest releases! Greeting our ears is Ronjo V. A proportionate mix of the haunting sounds of the Arctic Monkeys and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Ronjo V introduces us to an innovative sound. Ronjo V takes us on a chordal journey not only through their writing but also their engineer and mixing skills.

Through their music we can hear all of the musicianship that is Ronjo V. The control of the guitar, how the vocals sit so nostalgically in the mix, and the texture of the harmonic instruments touch even the most eclectic listeners. The sincerity of their drives us to seek more and the rawness pulls us back to the first track we listened to.

Ronjo V has released four titled tracks to introduce his sound to the alternative rock scene. Slow Motion, Bury the Fools, Dying Wish and Unfriend create an atmospheric environment for listeners.

The wavering effect of the instruments, the effect of the vocals, the bedding of bass and the dampened kit create a mellow, almost haunting atmosphere. Simple instrumentation but the mix, the subtle writing and the honesty of the music itself takes it to a whole new level!

This is a generous three song share from RonjoV, considering the quality of their music. So in the spirit of fairness, I can say we conviction that the remainder of the songs are equally as good and in one case outstanding. I don't think they are trying to copy anyone, however everyone from Radiohead through to those mentioned above and more, seem worthy benchmarks for the bands music. To say the least, I am really impressed.

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Tuesday Two: Terence Jack - Mira Aasma

Terence Jack - Eastern Rise.

Background words from Terence Jack - I've partnered with former band mate and fellow Vancouverite Daniel Klenner (We Are the City, Tourist Company, Hey Ocean) to co-produce my new EP. We have always had a dynamic synergy and chemistry which can be heard in the song’s triumphant verses and serene chorus.

We started messing around with piano sounds when we came up with the staccato piano line that helped carry the song. We both jumped out of our chairs and knew that it was perfect for the song.

After touring Canada by way of train and a South East Asia tour this previous winter, I'm looking at touring the new record “Never Get Back” coast-to-coast across Canada accompanied by a full band this Spring.

One of six quite individual and varied songs on 'Never Get Back' the featured single 'Eastern Rise' gives a really good feel for the music of Terence Jack. Musically the collection is hard to put in any one genre, sometimes it's a little folk orientated, then maybe alt rock, or even indie. Whatever, this is a really fine collection of songs. 'Eastern Rise' is but a flavour of what's in store, if you are in Canada, keep an eye out for tour dates.


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Mira Aasma - Whale Song.

Background promo words - It’s hard to believe that at the age of just nineteen, Gothenburg born vocalist Mira Aasma’s music is filled with such maturity and grace. The compelling sound of her voice has made her comparable to other celebrated artists including Florence and the Machine. Mira’s previous single Ghost started getting her music noticed in her home country, Sweden. Additionally, in the UK she began receiving more attention-with multiple plays on Amazing Radio. Mira continues to demonstrate her talent as she not only written but also arranged and produced all of the songs on her upcoming EP, Stereoscope.

During Whale Song, the electronic beats combined with the soothing vocals produce a unique track that can be compared to music by notable artists including Daughter and London Grammar. The pace quickens towards the end of the song whilst the drumbeat accelerates, very MS MR-esque, which leaves the listener captivated and engaged throughout.

Mira Aasma is an artist worth watching out for, as 2016 already looks promising for her. Whale Song will be released on the 8th April 2016 on Birds Records.

'Whale Song' has a moody deep vibe as it opens, allowing Mira Aasma to quickly stamp her vocal accreditation on the song. With powerful vocals and an ever developing soundtrack and electronic beats, the song makes for an excellent introduction to the music of Mira, to the point that the song ends quite triumphantly, almost as if to say "see? I told you this was good".

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Quality Not Quantity: Kwesi Foraes - Indus Rush - Gideon Blue

Kwesi Foraes - Pentacle 13.

Background promo - Twenty-three year old Kwesi Foraes, a folk-soul singer-songwriter, grew up in Long Beach California where he submersed himself early on into the music scene studying, folk, rock n roll, and blues.  Foraes spent years experimenting with different music styles and bands.  But after a surge of 3 family deaths all within a year, Foraes faced a hard internal battle while struggling to overcome his personal demons that almost took his own life.

Kwesi Foraes, at a point with few options of release, searched for an escape & sense of truth in his music and found it like never before in darkest and most raw pockets of folk, expressing himself at the most vulnerable and visceral levels, embracing all truth and confronting all ills head on.  Writing in trances of personal experiences and vivid encounters with spirits of his past, Foraes dedicated the last 4 years to bringing a perspective that is rooted far beyond just the music.

This is the second song to be shared from Kwesi Foraes eagerly awaited five track EP. 'Pentacle 13' is raw with emotion, and both vocally and musically delicious. Except from the words above I know nothing more about Kwesi, this wonderful song will ensure I try to learn more.

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Indus Rush - Romany Days.

Background promo - ‘Indus Rush’ is the brainchild of musician and producer, Stephen Whitby, recorded with session players from around the World, and mixed down and produced by Steve in his Dalbeattie Studio.

The single ‘Romany Days’ was written when Steve was 17 or 18, whilst at school in Dover, UK, after studying Thomas Hardy for his A levels, hence the reference to the Reddleman, reddle being the sticks and twigs collected in bundles and carried on the back of wandering collectors. The song started off as a folk song but gradually transformed into a Romantic rock song over the years. It exudes a dreamy romantic view of life and society in those heady days, also describing the pleasures of drinking, friendship, and the beauty of the surrounding natural views such a Traveler’s life would witness.

“Romany Days’ is the first single from the album “Tales & Anecdotes From the Waterfall”, which will be Indus Rush's second album of Rock songs, Orchestrations and Tunes, and features Swede Bjorn Dahlberg on Piano and Clarinet, and Max Saidi on Drums.

Stephen has spent the last 30 years travelling across the world and playing with a variety of famous musicians (including Adrian Fisher from Sparks, David Glasper and Ian “Spike” Spice from Breathe, Sparko from Doctor Feelgood and Mathew Kelly of Kingfish & The Grateful Dead) on a glorious beachfront setting called Secret Garden, on Koh Samui, in the Gulf of Thailand. He moved back to Scotland in 2008.

Indus Rush previous singles, ‘The Market Place / Mandingo’, and ‘Crackin’ Up’ have enjoyed a lot of airplay and interest, and have been particularly well received in the U.S., together with compilation tracks 'Waterfall Dance' and 'The Love Ambassedors'.

The well chosen inclusion of clarinet and piano gives the song 'Romany Days' that little something that makes a song stand out, in the ever crowded music world. With a pleasing melody and story telling style vocals, everything is refreshing and quite absorbing.

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Gideon Blue - Star.

Background promo - Scottish born but Winchester based UK Indie Artist Gideon Blue writes Indie Pop/Rock with an upbeat tempo.

2011 was the changing point in his musical career where he decided to go solo after years of playing in bands. He decided that he wanted the artistic freedom that goes hand in hand with being a solo artist. Inspired by this new found autonomy Gideon recorded a glut of new material and produced a video for fan favorite - Girl in the Cab.

His most recent project is the ‘STAR’ EP which includes the Songs ‘Move On’, “Summertime’ and ‘Girl in the Cab’; collating recent songs from the last two years in preparation of his new album where you can get a sneak preview of some of those tracks if you buy the EP.

His influences include Bauhaus for original Goth/Arthouse Rock, Doves, Radiohead - experimental Indie Pop, Bluetones - melodic, David Bowie, Rolling Stones, T-Rex and most recently Two Door Cinema Club, Bombay Bicycle Club and the Vaccines.

Collaboration with TeleFunken and Sonic Minds providing vocals and guitar have proved rewarding experiences – so much so that as well as writing and recording his own music he’s also heading in the direction of Indie songwriter and producer, currently working with other artists that need help in writing songs and building melodies/music to go with their ideas.

The recently released STAR EP with title track featured below, is often bright and upbeat, however it can and does mix differing styles and emotions. Musical influences cited above left me uncertain on quite what to expect, however it's fair to say Gideon Blue has plenty of uniqueness, and is not a clone of others ideas. Based on this the album should be a good one.

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Genre Mix Up: The Person & The People - Emily Rodgers - Grieving

The Person & The People - Hot Summer Nights.

Background bio - For nearly a decade The Person and The People have been a fixture in the Twin Cities’ “indie” scene and their experience is evident not only in their enchanting, nuanced live performances but also in their seemingly endless arsenal of catchy rock songs. Based on their past releases and their ability to navigate seamlessly from crunchy, beer-drinking guitar riffs to wistful ballads to angsty break-up songs, one can truly expect anything from their upcoming release Dark and Low.

The album promises to be collection of infectious melodies, dreamy hooks, punch-drunk guitar riffs, and sharp, relatable lyrics that poke fun at themes like society, love, and self-doubt. This creates delicate balance between everyday realism and confident farce. There are moments when we feel caught between the pull of the past and the promise of the future. Dark and Low stands on this precipice, draws a deep breath, and takes the next step. For The Person & The People, it’s fine. Album release date: Friday, April 22, 2016.

'Dark and Low' is a cracking album. 'Hot Summer Nights' the third of eleven tracks on the new release, is but a toe in the water of this fine collection of songs. The band crank things up on some songs, whilst on others there is a more leisurely and confident rock'n'roll swagger. But always there's the layered guitar riffs and melodies. If you like the featured track, I reckon you will be delighted with the album.

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Emily Rodgers - No Last Call.

Background promo - It’s clear from note one of Emily Rodgers’ new album, Two Years: she’s up to something a little different. Different from her past records, but different especially from so many of her contemporaries. In a world of indie-folk sameness, where epic and bombastic are the rule, Rodgers is deliberate and intense, quiet and bookish. And it's in its very quiet intensity that her music commands a listener’s full attention.

On paper, Rodgers’ music might seem like it would add up to folk or alt-country: A band with guitars, a pedal steel, some fiddles here and there. But on listening, you’re as likely to pick up on an undercurrent of shoegaze, chamber pop, even post-rock on Two Years. The violins oscillate under Rodgers’ melodies, more Dirty Three than country. The pedal steel soars. Rodgers’ voice, beautiful and world-weary, echoes.

On Two Years, her first album since 2009’s Bright Day, Rodgers worked with legendary producer Kramer, who was responsible for the sounds of first-generation shoegaze and slow-core innovators like Galaxie 500 and Low. (Kramer mixed and mastered Bright Day, and returned as producer this time around; he also produced two videos from the new album.) It’s fair to look at the album as a product of Rodgers’ unconventional writing -- she’s an English professor, and looks to literary sources for inspiration -- and Kramer’s sonic genius. Low comes to mind as a reference point; so does Tara Jane O’Neil.

That Two Years is her first recording in nearly seven betrays the fact that Rodgers isn’t rushing things. Song by song, she avoids the temptation to try to cram too many words into a phrase; there’s a deliberate confidence in her delivery. Rodgers takes her words seriously, and wants you to, too. (And not just her own words -- the album closes with a haunting, otherworldly cover of Neil Young’s “I Believe In You” that turns the original on its head.)

Make no mistake: Emily Rodgers’ songs generally aren’t happy. But in their contemplative melancholy, there’s a thread of fearlessness. Uplift and bombast may be the rage these days, but as Emily Rodgers makes clear, there’s something to be said for courage, contemplation and taking the time to let the words set in. Why create more of the same when something a little different can turn out this beautiful? Emily Rodgers "Two Years" (Misra Records) Release Date June 10th, 2016.

First of ten songs on the forthcoming album 'No Last Call' sets the standard on what is a treasure trove of beautiful songs. The songs don't so much switch across genres, but rather they melt them together. There is a feast of instruments, each one ideally suited for the melodies and the emotion of the songs. There may have been a lengthy gap since her last album, however if the material is going to be this good, then Emily Rodgers music is well worth the wait.

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Grieving - No Sleep.

Background promo - Grieving are a new band from Cambridge, playing direct, twisting indie-punk. The band played their first shows over the last couple of months, alongside the likes of Tellison and the much buzzed about Muncie Girls and have recorded six songs with Matty Moon (Bloody Knees, Lonely The Brave) set for release as a series of singles over the coming year.

In debt to the likes of Dismemberment Plan, Jets To Brazil, Drive Like Jehu and elsewhere the lo-fi pop of Guided By Voices, Bob Mould etc. you can hear the anxious, anthemic indie-punk of “No Sleep”.

Bassist Jack Hurst told The Fader: “No Sleep is one of the first songs we wrote as a band. It came together real naturally and I think we all knew when we left the rehearsal room with it finished that we had something there. Lyrically it’s about a previous bout of insomnia, how it can burden and disorientate you, especially as you get that little bit older and responsibilities weigh down on you further. There’s no time for a muddled head anymore. Zopiclone, referenced in the second verse, is a “nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic agent” according to Wikipedia. It works. Do not operate heavy machinery the next day.”

Straight down the line indie punk - no flowers in vases here, just good old honest bad attitude guitar riffs. Vocals give the song it's individual identity. A refreshing reminder that a few chords and plenty of energy can do wonders.

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Weekend Wonders: Hege Nesset - Sykoya

Hege Nesset - Faces.

Background - Hege Nesset is a Norwegian vocalist based in Liverpool, UK. Strongly influenced by blues and jazz as well as pop and electronica, she cites musical theatre and gospel music as shaping her voice.

Hege has already earned attention on national TV in Norway, performing with Venke Knutson, a Norwegian pop artist. She's a versatile backing singer performing with two Liverpool based bands, as well as doing session work and top lining.

'We Are' (Haig Records 29 April 2016) marks Hege's debut as a solo artist. The record showcases her distinctive vocals, carried by a delicate melody and brought to life with soaring harmonies.

The featured track 'Faces' gives a flavour of what to expect from the forthcoming single 'We Are'. Hege has already gained considerable experience in singing and has a charming versatile voice that deserves to be heard in it's own right, hopefully that's all about to happen.

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Sykoya - Closer.

Background words - Sykoya may be new to the scene, but are already receiving high praise for their distinctive sound and timeless mixture of indie electronic and dream pop tracks. Drawing comparisons to the likes of London Grammar, The XX and Massive Attack, the London based trio have made a lasting impression with their rhythmic electronics, melodic synths and the ever haunting vocals of front woman, Anna Marcella. Her voice will cast you under a spell as the music ebbs and flows seamlessly from light to dark, catching the listener between wanting to dance and sit in soft reflection.

Whilst excitement builds for their upcoming EP release on 21st May, the band have earned a featured spot on Tom Robinson's 'Fresh on the Net' and radio rotation around the UK and US.

Live Dates:
12th April - The Boiler Room- Guilford
13th April - The Underbelly - London
23rd April - The Deaf Institute - Manchester
21st May - EP release show - The Finsbury - London

The five track EP due in May really does showcase Sykoya as ones to watch out for, in 2016. Their atmospheric brand of electronic music, along with the impressive and mood matching vocals of Anna Marcella are a powerful combination. Comparisons there may be, however there is also a lot of creativity and commitment, giving the band a compelling and very attractive sound.

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Two Good Ones: Finlay Leslie - Gypsy & The Cat

Finlay Leslie - Reality.

Background promo - Finlay Leslie makes up for what she lacks in height with a big voice and a markedly vast range of song writing inspiration, exceeding far beyond her years.  Drawing experience from break-ups, trust, love, being elected Prom Queen alongside her girlfriend and revealing what she would say to her twelve-year-old self, this gifted self-taught storyteller already has a wealth of experience at her song-writing disposal.

In her heart-breaking debut single “Reality”, Leslie showcases her poetic storytelling ability recalling times when a lack of belief in her music and herself almost led to giving up. The touchingly reflective “Reality” is released 18th April 2016.

Nineteen-year-old Finlay Leslie’s talents were discovered when quickly racking up an impressive 80,000 YouTube plays, providing an early indication of her raw song writing talents with distinctive versions and arrangements of well-known covers before posting incredibly well received live versions of her original compositions.

Finlay applies her own unique spin, stripping songs back to their bare bones, showcasing her captivating and honest vocals and emotive guitar playing that lashes more passionately than the tides against the iconic white cliffs of her home town of Dover.

Playing most of these UK Venues for the very first time supporting the likes of Blair Dunlop, Mishka Shubaly and Blackbeards Tea Party, Finlay is quickly drawing attention for her enticing intimate live performances.

Catch Finlay at one of the following shows this spring:
2nd April   Morecambe Platform                Supporting Blackbeard’s Tea Party
21st April  Oxford, The Cellar                     Supporting Luke Daniels
22nd April Birmingham, The Rainbow     Supporting Blair Dunlop
23rd April  Oxford, The Jericho Tavern    Supporting Blair Dunlop
25th May   Liverpool, Philharmonic Hall   Supporting Blair Dunlop
26th May   Chelmsford, Asylum                 Supporting Mishka Shubaly
27th May   Sheffield, The Greystones       Supporting Blair Dunlop

Tender and personal are two words that spring to mind with the song 'Reality'. A stripped back acoustic piece, with Finlay demonstrating her 'storytelling' abilities, there is an underlying maturity to this song. 'Reality' is released Monday 18th April 2016. Whoever quipped that "the only good thing to come out of Dover was the cross channel ferry" (old English joke) would be apologising big time now!

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Gypsy & The Cat - I Just Wanna Be Somebody Else.

Background promo - “Change my brain and take my heart out. Guess you're doing fine without it.” — We all go through times when we wish we could just live another life, one without the troubles and sorrows of our own. This is an anthem for those with that longing for escape. The second single off their upcoming album, "I Just Wanna Be Somebody Else" follows up on the success of last month's "Inside Your Mind" which topped charts and got play listed around the world. Gypsy & the Cat are sure to continue winning over listeners on their mission to shower the world in glorious Australian indie pop.

Boasting ARIA and Hype Machine charting singles, three songs in the triple j Hottest 100, plus international chart and touring feats in places like Germany, Denmark and Sweden; Gypsy & the Cat and success are no longer just flirting with each other. They're shacking up and settling down. Champions of a distinctive style that’s continually influenced their contemporaries, the Melbourne duo have an unmistakable sound that’s been described as “the epitome of Australian indie-pop.” (Acid Stag)

This new stuff? There’s no doubt it’s Gypsy & The Cat. Roll call: punchy falsettos, walls of dreamy synths and a reason to dance? All present. Mixed by Dave Fridmann (Tame Impala, MGMT, Neon Indian, The Flaming Lips) it’s another sampling of the full-length album expected later this year. Spending a chunk of the last year in Japan to channel inspiration from a myriad of creative influences, "I Just Wanna Be Somebody Else" and "Inside Your Mind" indicate a new muse. A new era.

This is a good reminder that indie pop can still be pretty special. OK so we could split hairs on the specific genre, however it's still a fine song whatever box you want to put it in. Vocals are stand out, but then again so is the music, the above promo seemed over the top until I heard the song, one for the weekend.

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The Veldt - 'The Shocking Fuzz of Your Electric Fur' - Mixtape EP

The Veldt - Sanctified.

Background - Identical twins Daniel and Danny Chavis may originally hail from Raleigh/ Chapel Hill, North Carolina, but they have been East Village residents for the past 28 years. They are also co-founders of the ground breaking band The Veldt, who lifted their band’s name from a Ray Bradbury science fiction story. Musically reared in the church and juke-joints of their native southern state, the twins have been performing since they were children, listening to music that included gospel, Motown and Pink Floyd. They now make music, together with bassist/programmer Hayato Nakao, returning to their roots with the release of The Shocking Fuzz of Your Electric Fur: The Drake Equation Mixtape EP.  The album releases on April 8 and to celebrate, the band is doing a whirlwind tour of Central Canada (see tour dates below)

The first single is the emotionally wrought Sanctified, a ballad that perfectly captures the lush sound of Danny’s screeching guitars and decibel-breaking distortion, along with Daniel’s soulful wail and Hayato Nakao’s deep bass grooves and guitar feedback, the track serves as the perfect re-introduction to this dynamic band. The title The Shocking Fuzz of Your Electric Fur was borrowed from an E.E. Cummings poem. Its raging sound was influenced equally by the emotional soul of Marvin Gaye, free jazz warriors Sun Ra and Pharaoh Sanders, various Drake hip-hop tracks, and their own fertile electric imagination. 

In their early days, the Chavis brothers making a name for themselves playing throughout the south at a time when fellow southerners REM and Superchunk were securing major label deals. As more black rock bands (Living Colour, 24/7 Spyz) began selling records and gigging throughout the world, The Veldt was courted by various labels, including IRS Records and Capitol. 

Initially signed to Capitol Records in 1989, The Veldt embarked on a musical journey that changed their lives. Soon, they were in the studio with dream-gaze guru Robin Guthrie working on their initial recordings, playing American concert halls with Cocteau Twins and The Jesus and Mary Chain, and recording Marigolds with Linco ln Fong (Moose).

The Veldt were a sensation from the start as they became a part of a movement of innovators who came of musical age at a time when rhythmic rebels were reflective, gritty and wild. Their sound inspired future generations of alternative artists, including TV On the Radio. 

Although The Veldt had signed to two major labels after leaving Mercury Records in 1995, the brothers decided to remain indie and self-released their 2008 album White Music for Black People. “The major labels were always trying to get us to change our sound, our look or both,” Daniel laughs. “But, we had no interest in being the next Lenny Kravitz or Tony! Toni! Toné! Unfortunately, not everyone shared our vision. We weren’t trying to be rock stars, we just want to play our music and pay our rent.” 

Apart from Robin Guthrie and A.R. Kane, who produced 'And It's You' from this EP, they have collaborated with TV On The Radio, Mos Def and Lady Miss Kier (Deee-Lite), and have shared the stage with My Bloody Valentine, The Pixies, Echo & The Bunnymen, Cocteau Twins, My Bloody Valentine, Manic Street Preachers, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Oasis, Living Colour and TV on the Radio, among others.

They eventually changed their name back to The Veldt. The Shocking Fuzz of Your Electric Fur serves to mark the band's re-emergence and will be followed by another full album of material on their Resurrection Hymns LP later this year (via Sona BLAST! Records). Indeed, for these veteran musicians and passionate noise technicians, this newest EP marks a new beginning. The Shocking Fuzz of Your Electric Fur will be released via UK label Leonard Skully Records on April 8, 2016.

Live April Dates:

04/01 London, ON - CHRW 94.9 FM In-Session
04/01 London, ON - 765 Old East Bar & Grill
04/02 London, ON - CHRW Saturday Morning with Howie Zowie
04/03 Toronto, ON - Silver Dollar Room
04/06 Peterborough, ON - Red Dog Tavern
04/07 Montreal, QC - Barfly
04/08 Ottawa, ON - Zaphod's Ottawa
04/11 Raleigh/Chapel Hill, NC - Cat's Cradle
05/06 Philadelphia - Union Transfer (with Brian Jonestown Massacre) 
05/07 Boston - Paradise Rock Club (with Brian Jonestown Massacre) 
05/09 New York City - Webster Hall (with Brian Jonestown Massacre).

The single and the first of five tracks on the new EP, 'Sanctified' reinforces the pedigree of The Veldt. It's one of five songs that are distinctive, appealing and give understanding to how and why they have shared stages live, with so many notable acts. 'Sanctified' typifies the quality and musical style across the new EP and raises expectations, of what is to follow later in the year. Within their genre and dynamic interpretations, The Veldt are a band who have it 'in bucket loads'.

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Singers & Songs: Maria Usbeck - Silver Pools - Ofelia K

Maria Usbeck - Moai Y Yo.

Background promo - Maria Usbeck (former front woman of Selebrities) today announces her debut solo LP and shares lead single, "Moai Y Yo."

The album "Amparo", to be released May 27 via Labrador in Europe and Cascine in the US, is a collection of songs written and recorded across the span of three years in Ecuador, Buenos Aires, Santiago, Barcelona, Lisbon, Easter Island, Costa Rica, Florida, L.A. and her home in Brooklyn.

Though the songs were composed electronically, Amparo called for an acoustic treatment, so Usbeck spent a winter in the studio recording the arrangements live with producer Caroline Polachek of Chairlift who has also produced Beyoncé and engineer Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson. Fleshed out in full sonic colour on the marimba, xylophone, quena flute, piano, and harp, the album stretched into something hi-fi and expressive, meditative but not meandering.

So my native language is English and sadly my grasp of Spanish is extremely lacking. That music can transcend languages is reinforced for me with this wonderful song. Musically it is superb & Maria's voice becomes another instrument for me, and a wonderful one, at that. She could be singing the local bus timetable for all I know, however one thing I am clear on this is going to get quite few more plays by me.

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Silver Pools - Leap Year.

Background promo - Silver Pools is an ambient-pop entity led by Toronto based mandolinist, songwriter & producer Todd Macdonald. Following the disintegration of the baroque pop group The Winks in 2010, Macdonald went back to school, studied jazz composition & performance while continuing his work as a sound engineer and producer.

Recorded over a four year period in studios and bedrooms between Montréal and Toronto, Memoirs of An Oblong Sphere features contributions musicians from both cities. The lushly orchestrated album explores rich, harmonic and sonic textural combinations through blending analogue synthesisers with horns and woodwinds and mandolins melting into warped classical vinyl samples. This process of layering multiple musical performances was in part inspired by techniques he learned from the production team of John Collins & David Carswell. They produced The Winks' 2008 album Birthday Party as well as The New Pornographers' Twin Cinema, an album which Macdonald played mandolin on.

The lyrics for Leap Year are taken from the correspondence between Macdonald and Vancouver writer Shmuel Marmorstein. The two have been writing songs & stories together since they were high school students in the 90s. Memoirs of An Oblong Sphere will be out on cassette April 22, 2016 via UR Audiovisual.

Silver Pools Tour Dates:
Thursday April 14th: Guelph @ The Golden Bus - Silver Pools, The Blue Funz, M. Mucci
Friday April 15th: Toronto @ Secret Venue - Silver Pools, The Blue Funz & Still Monk
Saturday April 16th: Kitchener @ Open Sesame - Silver Pools, the Blue Funz, Eiyn Sof
Sunday April 17th: Hamilton @ Baltimore House - Silver Pools, The Blue Funz, Blunt Chunks & ZONES
Thursday April 21st: Toronto @ Handlebar (For Frequencies) *Memoirs of An Oblong Sphere album release - Silver Pools, Anzola, Ajage No Anne & "Valkyrie... is about to Die!"

Saturday April 23rd: Montreal @ La Plante - Silver Pools, Syngja, Man Meets Bear & Dromia

'Leap Year' is my introduction to Silver Pools and it's a really fine song. Todd Macdonald's vocals are pretty special in my opinion, and he knows how to find just the right musical accompaniment and balance so that both vocals and music really shine. An excellent taster for the now highly anticipated album on my part.

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Ofelia K - Cinco.

Background promo - The 'Plastic Flower' EP featuring “White T-Shirt”, "As A Bell," "Gone" and "Hawk Fly Tiger Run" reintroduced Ofelia K.’s voice to the world - compelling songs worn down to perfection that balance wistful maturity with a certain earnest and eternally young expression.  Not quite pop, not quite anything else, the young singer-songwriter showcased her beautiful symmetry with her music somewhere between an unrepressed journal entry, a comforting arm around the shoulder and her smoky, shimmering glare, her eyes so knowingly staring into you. With spins from Annie Mac at BBC Radio 1, over 1.8 million Spotify plays, and features on multiple NBC television shows, the world heard her starry eyed songs and asked for oh-so-many more.

With her upcoming single release, "Cinco," this LA songstress once again sets her sights on capturing the public’s heart with her tunes. As Ofelia herself mentions, "I was embracing the freedom to get loose and play, and I think that energy that comes through in the songs."  And with Ofelia K, you know that freedom can only result in pure musical bliss.  With every single on the ‘Plastic Flower’ EP reaching top 5 on Hypem, and  Zane Lowe premiering, her forthcoming EP is guaranteed to leave your ears enraptured.

This is a beautiful piece of sparkly indie pop. Bright and uplifting the vocals skip and hop across the equally upbeat soundtrack. That her music is already popular is clear by the statistics above, it's so very, very pleasing.

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Quality Not Quantity: Polyenso - Jenny Broke The Window - Old Sault

Polyenso - 17 New Years.

Background promo - Building off of 2013’s cult-acclaimed “One Big Particular Loop,” Polyenso — Alex Schultz, Brennan Taulbee, and Denny Agosto — has spent the past two years working extensively with producer Jason Pennock. Evolving their particular flavor of indie-rock to include elements of hip-hop, neo-soul, and experimental electronics, they pull influences from acts such as Flying Lotus, The Roots, Bright Eyes, and Bjork, half-jokingly referring to their medley as “urban indie progressive.”

Possessing an unrestricted vision for the musical quality in all things, the band operates like sound designers, pairing synthesisers, pianos and guitars with organic noise and everyday objects like spatulas, wooden bowls and packing peanuts. Polyenso’s visionary production is equalled by the freshly unlocked vocal dynamics of Taulbee and Schultz. Led by Taulbee’s soothing and provocative melodies, Schultz is tagged in to bring the sexy back on harmonies, occasionally leading himself.

Releasing their first new tracks in 2014, “17 New Years” and “Moona Festival” provide listeners with a taste of the depth and scope of the band's ever-expanding sound. The upcoming album, Pure In The Plastic, serves as a challenge to music as a whole, proving that there is room left for originality in the popular. Carrying forward their intrinsically spiritualistic character, from start to finish, their music captures listeners in a moment of transcendence, feeling as much a part of the future as it does the present.

The soon to be released album 'Pure In The Plastic' is an adventurous and exciting work. The band may have a core sound however they are not afraid to explore different styles and genres. '17 New Years' is the first of ten songs on the album. It provides some insight into what's to come, but with so mush richness and variety, expect to be spoilt, with a lot more.

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Jenny Broke The Window - Airport Love.

Background promo - Jenny Broke The Window deftly evoke that lump-in-your-throat feeling we all get when waving goodbye to a loved one at the gate in their new single 'Airport Love', produced by Tony Buchen (Bluejuice, The Preatures, Andy Bull).

Swelling, wistful, and atmospheric, the song's rhythm echoes the beat of a heart that's had just about enough. Hushed vocals are juxtaposed over bubbling synths, strings and cruchy guitar riffs that add just the right amount of drama. 'Airport Love' is the perfect catalyst for your moment of 20/20 hindsight clarity - just keep the tissues handy when it hits.

The Sydney quartet's forthcoming EP has two radio hits under its belt already - 'Skinny Dip' and 'Black Skeleton', the latter of which was the #43 most played track on triple j in 2015. The band themselves are no strangers to notoreity, having shared the stage with the likes of Sticky Fingers, Bluejuice, The Fratellis, Gang of Youths,  Harts and Kingswood. With a string of tour dates now announced, Jenny Broke The Window are poised to break free from the pack and straight into hearts across the country.

Sat Apr 09 - Moonshine, Manly
Fri May 06 - Newtown Social Club, Sydney
Sat May 14 - Penny Black, Melbourne.

The opening heartbeat rhythm slowly morphs into a very catchy song, with vocals leading the way and the music steadily building. It's a really well produced song allowing all the key elements to shine through, as the hooks work there way under your skin.

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Old Sault - Ghost.

Background promo - A darling display of maturity, a plea from a lonely bedroom. Debut single from Old Sault, 'Ghost', is awash with contemplation. Accompanied by an expertly shot music video (here) featuring a rabbit, a victim and his bullies, 'Ghost' is a heartbreaking reminder of how life's moments can return to the mind in an instant.

Currently a bandless band from the Gold Coast, Old Sault is more the moniker for singer, songwriter and guitarist Angie Farr. Produced by the ARIA-winning Govinda Doyle (Angus & Julia Stone), 'Ghost' is but a snippet of the work the two have been working on together, with another single just around the corner and a debut EP not far behind it. Pricking the ears of triple j and taste makers already, Old Sault is a raconteur, ready to realise her place on the national music stage.

Sometimes when I'm trying to describe a song all I really want to say is "This is a really good song" and just leave it at that. Maybe I should, but that always seem a little unfair considering the work that goes into so much of the music we feature here. Anyway, this really is a good song... oh just play it!


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Monday Double: Used Cassettes - Clare Maguire

Used Cassettes - Ducati.

Background promo - Sunburnt, half-dazed and several piers down from the fluoride tide of the Korean Wave, Used Cassettes are a stomp-and-stagger rock band based in Seoul. Rock n Rills due May 6th on Magic Strawberry Sound.

Used Cassettes' tunes are served straight up like the Stones', though maybe a bit sandier, and waterlogged by an unlikely drift of far-flung currents. The group may have met not far from Gangnam, but they hail from South Africa, Canada, and Detroit.

Over the past couple years they've broken Korea's rock Top 40, become the first gang of foreigners to ever sign with a top-tier local label, torn it up on the Asian festival circuit, and - inevitably? - starred in a comic book series read by millions. They wanted to make sure they sun-baked their sound nice and crisp before taking it back home. Listening back on their new LP Rock n Rills, they feel pretty good about that.

'Ducati' is a marvellous piece of rock music, with all the writing sensibilities of a Stones record and the loose swagger and attitude of The Black Crowes. However it's more than that. The band have a very fresh, natural sound, that in reality is cleverly refined, so that all instruments and vocals are very clear in the mix. As introductions to a band go, this one ticks all the boxes.

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Clare Maguire - Elizabeth Taylor.

Background promo - Clare Maguire listens to all sorts of artists these days; they have only one thing in common. "They are true to themselves," she says. This, more than any genre or sound or era, is all that matters to the 27-year-old singer-songwriter right now. "It's a certain attitude that I'm really drawn to," she explains, "and it really doesn't matter what music it is, and it doesn't matter who the person is. That's the inspiration for me."

This much is clear in Maguire's new music. After a moment away from the spotlight, the Brummie chanteuse is back in full force - still with that amazing, swooping, haunting voice, but with more raw, fragile vulnerability. Clare wrote the majority of this album at home on her piano, with her sausage dogs, on a diet of pizza and cups of tea, listening to everything from Rihanna to Johnny Cash, "If it sounds a bit rough around the edges, it's fine," she reasons, "because that's who I am."

She posted a series of songs online herself over the past year to high praise from the likes of Pitchfork, Fader and Rookie. These beautifully fragile tracks also caught the attention of Christopher Bailey, head designer at Burberry, who invited Clare to perform at multiple runway shows across the world, a creative relationship which continues to flourish.

Now Clare is poised and ready to release her brand new album, Stranger Things Have Happened, with brand new single, "Elizabeth Taylor", the first song to be heard from the album.

A true artist and musician, Clare wrote the entire album herself and was heavily involved with the studio recording process, drafting in modern British greats like pianist Sam Beste (best known for his work with Amy Winehouse) and producer Blue May (Kindness, Robyn, Kano and more). Stranger Things Have Happened will be released on EMI Records on May 27th.

'Elizabeth Taylor' is a sultry, beautiful song. Clare sings as if each word comes from the heart and the music almost struggles to keep up with her commitment to the song, that said - both vocals and musical soundtrack are quite stunning and really compliment each other.

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Alternative Take: A Dead Forest Index - Red Sleeping Beauty - United Sounds of Joy

A Dead Forest Index - Myth Retraced.

Background promo - A Dead Forest Index has shared the second cut from their debut album In All That Drifts From Summit Down, out April 29th on Sargent House. “Myth Retraced” features guitar contributions from Gemma Thompson of Savages, resulting in a song that is both intense and beautiful.

Landscapes both seen and felt, real and imagined, lie at the heart of In All That Drifts From Summit Down, the vast debut full-length release from nomadic duo A Dead Forest Index. Comprised of brothers Adam Sherry (vocals/guitar) and Sam Sherry (drums/piano), the group crafts ethereal and intensely intimate compositions that defy trends and labelling, instead shaping an aural experience as organic as it is unpredictable. Forsaking instrumental complexity in favour of richly dense vocals and an otherwise minimal palette, the band evokes heaviness with the atmosphere they create rather than through blunt force. Teaming-up with Sargent House on the heels of a recent European tour supporting label mate Chelsea Wolfe, A Dead Forest Index are poised to introduce their sound to a global audience in 2016.

A Dead Forest Index was initially the solo project of Adam Sherry, begun in 2008. By 2010, it had evolved into a collaboration, with Sam Sherry supplying percussive depth to his brother’s distinctively hymnal approach to vocals, itself characterised by cyclical harmonies and experiments with drone. Untethered by place (or, for that matter, era), they’ve spent the past few years developing their sound, touring extensively between 2012-2014, and issuing the EPs “Antique” and “Cast of Lines” in the process. The latter was released by Jehnny Beth of Savages’ Pop Noire label, a precursor to the collaborative Savages/A Dead Forest Index composition and performance titled “In What I’m Seeing; the Sun” for the Barbican’s Station to Station Festival in 2015.

In All That Drifts From Summit Down, their debut album, is a testimony to the sublime divinity of nature and the cold reality of time’s passage. Unfolding over 13 tracks, the album imagines natural phenomena as poetic metaphor for the human condition, the lyrics evoking stone, cold air, unyielding emptiness and erosion, while the enveloping warmth of Adam Sherry’s layered, choral vocals makes for an intriguing contrast.

We featured the band in early February, however, I just love this second song from the forthcoming album and could not resist giving them another share. The band are touring the USA from late April right through to June. Gemma Thompson's additional guitar contribution to this song adds just that little something extra, to a band who musically, already have a lot going for them.

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Red Sleeping Beauty - Mi Amor.

Background bio - 2016 is a big year for Swedish indie pop legends Red Sleeping Beauty (named after a song by 80’s Marxist band McCarthy). They’ve not only done their first live appearance in 20 years time, they will - more importantly - release their first album in 19 years time! Labrador released a first single called "Mi Amor" on March 25.

Red Sleeping Beauty formed in Stockholm in 1989 by singer Kristina Borg, singer/guitarist Niklas Angergård (Acid House Kings), guitarist Mikael Matsson (The Shermans), and bassist Carl-Johan Näsström. They made a huge impact on the international indiepop scene with two fantastic albums and a series of singles and EPs. Their first release was in 1992 with EP Pop Sounds (Marsh Marigold), followed by four 7"s all on different pop labels (Somersault, Motorway, Grimsey, and Sunday) before returning to Marsh-Marigold for the first full length Bedroom. They then signed to the legendary Siesta Records to release their fifth single Sick & Tired, their second album Soundtrack, and a compilation of singles.

Red Sleeping Beauty have always been fans of drum machines and vintage synthesiser. On ”Kristina” they’ve cultivated their love for electronic instruments and made up strict rules for the recordings: they only use analogue synthesisers and allow themselves to trim them with one acoustic guitar per song. The result is a heartfelt mix of memorable pop melodies and timeless electronica.

On ”Kristina” Red Sleeping Beauty is a duo consisting of vocalist Niklas Angergård and Mikael Matsson with help from Kristina Borg on vocals on four songs. The album title is a tribute to her.
- She’s had a tough struggle with cancer but things are looking brighter now. We expect her back as a full time member on the next album, the band states. ”Kristina” is the band’s first album in 19 year’s time. But that doesn’t mean the members have been disconnected from making music all these years. Niklas has released numerous albums with Acid House Kings on Labrador while Mikael Matsson has released several albums with both The Charade and The Shermans on Skipping Stones Records and Shelflife.

The return is by no means a temporary one. Red Sleeping Beauty is back for good. The writing and recording process has never been more inspiring and ”Kristina” is about ten times better than anything we’ve done in the past. You’ve only just seen the beginning of Red Sleeping Beauty 2.0, says singer Niklas Angergård.

'Mi Amor' has deep rich synth's that mix beautifully with the acoustic guitar and drums. Add to that the lush vocals and gentle melodies and you have a really good timeless piece of music. It bodes well for the album due out quite soon.

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United Sounds of Joy - The Sun That Hides A Darker Star.

Background promo - United Sounds of Joy is a new London, UK-based collaboration between Michael J. Sheehy and former Dream City Film Club band mate Alex Vald. Their self-titled debut album is released in North America on April 1st 2016 on Bronze Rat Records on CD/LP/digital formats, having recently been released in Europe to much critical acclaim.

Almost two decades removed from each other’s musical energies, Vald and Sheehy have reunited to craft some heart-rending, mind-bending music. Coming on like Joe Meek and Goldfrapp entangled in some ancient machinery, the first listen track 'The Sun That Hides A Darker Star' is a magnificent, shimmering sound that the BBC’s Lauren Laverne described as: “If David Cronenberg directed a spaghetti western, we reckon it would feel a little like this.”

"Don't call it a reunion" insists Michael J Sheehy "…we're not even a band in the traditional fashion". Dream City Film Club were signed to Beggars Banquet within a year of forming in 1995, released an album and recorded two Peel sessions before Vald was unceremoniously kicked out. "Alex was dismissed because he was the only decent human being in the band", says Sheehy, "we were intent on dismantling the band from the off, everyone was pulling in different directions, each with his own very particular variety of personality disorder, drug abuse or mental illness, and if all that stuff hadn't of got us then I'm sure we would have buckled beneath the weight of our very lofty pretencions."

Featuring contributions from Fiona Brice (Midlake, John Grant, Placebo) and Gemma Ray, the album is full of alluring, devious pop noir, the songs immersed in an eerie, crepuscular pool of fuzzy, warmly welcoming psychedelics. United Sounds of Joy traverse a road to a new and rewarding gothic chanson.  The beautiful cover is by Russian artist Aleksandra Laika.

The album was released in the UK a short while back, with just one sold out release show. It's a refined and absorbing collection of songs, of which the featured track gives some idea of what to expect. The songs are consistently pleasing, ideas are imaginative and everything has the feel of delicate and careful construction, with the bands hearts close to the end piece.

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Genres Mixed: Palumbo and the Funk - Broen - The Loom

Palumbo and the Funk - Get It Right.

Background words - Boasting a line up from around the world Palumbo and the Funk have been regulars on the London scene with audiences loving their Rock/Funk vibe. BBC Introducing have been early champions along with Gary Crowley who described them as "a musical powerhouse".

Palumbo and the Funk  got a kick start in with their award winning self produced EP, Rock The Funk which won the Jazz/Funk/Fusion Category at the Independent Music Awards (IMAS) in 2014.

The title of their debut album “All The Rage We Are”, is a take on the famous jazz tune “All the things you are” and encapsulates a “funk rock sound” but the genre becomes more “rock with horns” with each track. Musically, it’s groove with sonic depth and you find more hooks each time you hear the tunes.Lyrically, there’s a story to tell in each song.

“All The Rage We Are”was 2 years in the making and features 10 instruments - Drums, bass, keys, guitar, tenor sax, alto sax, trumpet, 1 X lead vocal, 2 X BVs and was produced by Dion Palumbo and Alex Fletcher with input also from the renowned Richie Stevens (Boy George, Joss Stone, Gorillaz, George Clinton).
'
I missed this band last year when they released their album 'All The Rage We Are' however it's such a great listen that giving them a belated mention only seems fair. Featured track 'Get It Right' typifies the excellent music this band generates both in the studio and in their natural live environment. This is swaggering funk rock from the  London based funk rock collective formed in 2011 by guitarist, front man and Australian singer songwriter Dion "Blindman Jumbo" Palumbo.

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Broen - No, My God.

Background promo - It’s the dark side of ladies night – the heels, the dresses and alcohol-fuelled messes. Norwegian quintet Broen glam it up on latest offering ‘No, My God’, with vocalist Marianna Røe pondering post-club frivolities: “We bumping round like a party of T-Rexes, wearing tiny little freaky dresses”.

Beneath the track’s gleaming exterior lies a somewhat existential brood: “It’s about ignoring your problems, and drinking, partying and instagramming your problems away,” Røe explains. “And then getting lost in who's right, who's wrong and all the different voices that argue Which God could or should help… ‘No, MY God’.” The track captures Broen’s genre-clashing, gloriously indeterminate charm, serving a synth-illating instalment of Britpop, hip-hop and West African rhythms. Stream/embed ‘No, My God’ below...

‘No, My God’ is taken from the band’s forthcoming debut EP ‘Yoga’, released May 6th via London-based singles club 0E0E. The four-track EP includes acclaimed singles of last year ‘Iris’ and ‘Boy’ – earning the collective praise of The Guardian, Consequence of Sound, KEXP and BBC Radio 6 Music’s Lauren Laverne.

'No, My God' has a quirky marching beat around which swirl both instruments, vocals and melodic harmonies. The song disappears into some kind of hip hop spell, then the craziness resumes. It's fascinating and quite addictive.

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The Loom - 01 Fire Makes.

Background bio - The Loom – a band from Brooklyn that has been called a “Next Big Thing” by the New York Times, “Best of What’s Next” by Paste Magazine, and a “World Café Next” band by WXPN – will release their second album Here in the Deadlights on April 22nd via Crossbill/Stereocilia.

However, Here in the Deadlights is not the record they set out to make upon returning from touring their debut album in mid-2012 (they made that album too, but more on that later). Instead, Deadlights both reflects and was made in the midst of the extremely difficult time that unfolded for band leader John Fanning upon their return: a life upending split from his longtime partner and best friend of fourteen years, the nearly lost mind and period of psychic and existential searching that followed, and the heavy lifting of rebuilding it all out of that collapse.

These circumstances, combined with the band’s collective and long-percolating obsessions with repetition, groove, atmosphere, and dissonance, honed across several hundred shows throughout the US and Canada and as far away as Poland, informed the shape of the new record.

Deadlights was recorded with producer Kevin McMahon (Titus Andronicus, Real Estate) at Marcata Recording in upstate New York, and finds them digging more and more heavily into these inspirations, stacking organs on top of organs and undergirding endless tangles of words with noisy guitars, set against horns run through delay pedals, all while maintaining the spirit and craft that led Daytrotter to write that The Loom “makes us believe that they’re the fathers and mothers of our cold and jagged memories, those that may or may not even be our memories for they feel so distant.”

Driven by psych-influenced guitars, songs like “I Am Not Young” and “Fire Makes” push towards connection and against the incessant passing of time, while “Ten Thousand Tiny Field Mice” is the repetitive, bracing sound of a mind unraveling (complete with manic saxophone breakdown from Phantom Family Halo’s David Lackner, who plays on “Fire Makes” as well).

There is a considerable amount to discover within the forthcoming album. Across nine tracks the band dig deep with ideas and passion, resulting in something that is clearly quite special to them, and as importantly, for the listener. Vocally superb and musically inventive, the album reflects the circumstances of John Fanning to the point where his emotions are shared, almost on a one to one basis. In the days of singles, EP's and on-line streaming, The Loom remind us that whole albums remain a musical journey of art in there own right.


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Quality Not Quantity: ARMS - The Heroic Enthusiasts - Hein Cooper

ARMS - Keep It Light.

Background promo - ARMS and Paper Garden Records have teamed up yet again to release the project's second full-length album, Patterns, which is set to be released worldwide in late May. With influences stemming from David Bowie and German rock band, Neu!, Todd Goldstein says the song 'Keep It Light' is "an open letter to the voices in my head that delight in telling me to tone it down, to rein it in, to not frighten or disturb anyone with my behaviours or feelings."

ARMS' Patterns takes the cinematic mood pieces and coy lyricism of previous ARMS records—the noisy, homespun Kids Aflame (2008) and its widescreen sequel Summer Skills (2011)—and cranks the volume: The melodies leap from the speakers, the sound is crackling and urgent. The songs on Patterns are as keenly aware of their place in the continuum of wry, melancholic songwriters (the Cohens, Merritts, Wainwrights, and Stipes that Goldstein likes to cite) as they are willing to twist those conventions into off, intriguing new shapes.

The landscape has changed dramatically since Todd’s mid-2000s stint playing guitar in New York cult heroes Harlem Shakes—guitar-forward, songwriterly indie pop has returned to its niche roots; it’s a contracting field. But rather than closing up shop, Goldstein and his now-10-year-old ARMS project respond to that revelation with their most eclectic, emotionally generous album yet. Patterns is the sound of a songwriter with nothing left to prove, displaying a hard-won lyrical compassion and a sureness of craft born from a lifetime of listening, playing and drinking deep of the music he loves.

The chunky powerful opening riffs lead into equally potent vocals. Add the soaring guitar that occasionally drops in and a relentless beat and the result is pretty special.

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The Heroic Enthusiasts - Falling of the Drop (We are One).

Biography - Back in the 16th century, the Catholic friar and astronomer/philosopher Giordano Bruno gazed up at the stars enraptured by the poetry he saw in the elliptical patterns playing out in the sky. For Bruno, math, science, art, and romance were all one and the same ­­ a perspective that resonated so much James Tabbi and Tom Ferrara that they chose to name their band after Bruno's epic work Gli Eroici Furori -- literally "On the Heroic Passion" but commonly known as "The Heroic Enthusiasts." Much as they did for Bruno, numbers for this band function as a window into matters of the heart.

Both math majors and music lovers of Sicilian descent, Ferrara and Tabbi understand that form derives its beauty from a dance between precision and an intangible quality that can't be quantified. Yes, they write songs that stick in your memory and make you want to sing them out loud. But they also add discreet touches of sophistication, leaving a note out of a chord, for example, so that your ear strains to hear it and then introducing contrast by adding the note they've been implying all along. The way their guitar lines mesh together brings to mind the approach of master weavers and designers as much as it does musicianship in the conventional sense.

Numbers and emotion may not seem related, but when you listen to the band's new EP Memory Wheel, you'll hear why the connection makes sense. Or maybe you'll just hum or dance along instead. And that's okay too. These guys wouldn't have it any other way.

The band's new EP 'Memory Wheel', comprises of four really powerful songs. It's hard to pick one out as the best, however as 'Falling of the Drop' is the only one I can share, at least that problem is easily solved. Lyrically intelligent and musically full of hooks, this really is a mathematically sound EP.

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Hein Cooper - Overflow.

Background promo - Australian singer-songwriter Hein Cooper dropped new track 'Overflow' this week ahead of debut album The Art of Escape release on April 1.  

Overflow is "a celebration of two bodies coming together in the physical world and transforming into something more spiritual rather than physical. It’s slightly non-sensical and drifts through imagery to capture the imagination rather than reality" explains Cooper.

His debut album The Art of Escape, due out April 1, 2016 via Indica Records (Phantogram, Half Moon Run) is now available for pre-order via iTunes.  The much anticipated recording was produced in Montreal by Marcus Paquin (Local Natives, Arcade Fire, The National) whom Cooper praises for his involvement: "It was a really collaborative process, he had a lot of great ideas that built the songs up in a way that got the ideas out of my head and into the record." Not afraid to mesh acoustic with electronic and equally proficient in both lush and stripped back moments, the album is an accomplished start for the young artist who embraces light and shade in equal measure. The title track "The Art and Escape" and "Rusty" are both immediately available upon purchase.

The last twelve months saw Hein Cooper collect some pretty amazing achievements:  two singles on triple j, spins on the BBC, a slot at Falls Festival, record deals across three continents, the best part of a year crossing the globe playing festivals from the UK and Europe to Canada, and opening slots with James Bay, Sophie Hunger & Half Moon Run.

There is a sparkly feel to the music as the song commences, that is well suited to Hein Coopers vocals. Bright, lively and well produced 'Overflow' is a good song that can't but raise interest in his debut album, due in a week.

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